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Chung WCJ, Tsai PS. The initiation and maintenance of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuron identity in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1166132. [PMID: 37181038 PMCID: PMC10173152 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1166132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons that secrete gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) drive vertebrate reproduction. Genetic lesions that disrupt these neurons in humans lead to congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) and reproductive failure. Studies on CHH have largely focused on the disruption of prenatal GnRH neuronal migration and postnatal GnRH secretory activity. However, recent evidence suggests a need to also focus on how GnRH neurons initiate and maintain their identity during prenatal and postnatal periods. This review will provide a brief overview of what is known about these processes and several gaps in our knowledge, with an emphasis on how disruption of GnRH neuronal identity can lead to CHH phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson CJ Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Pei-San Tsai
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, United States
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2
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Garolla A, Pizzol D, Carosso AR, Borini A, Ubaldi FM, Calogero AE, Ferlin A, Lanzone A, Tomei F, Engl B, Rienzi L, De Santis L, Coticchio G, Smith L, Cannarella R, Anastasi A, Menegazzo M, Stuppia L, Corsini C, Foresta C. Practical Clinical and Diagnostic Pathway for the Investigation of the Infertile Couple. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 11:591837. [PMID: 33542705 PMCID: PMC7851076 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.591837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Capsule This expert opinion summarizes current knowledge on risk factors for infertility and identifies a practical clinical and diagnostic approach for the male and female partners of an infertile couple aimed to improve the investigation and management of fertility problems. Background Infertility represents an important and growing health problem affecting up to 16% of couples worldwide. In most cases, male, female, or combined factor can be identified, and different causes or risk factors have been related to this condition. However, there are no standardized guidelines on the clinical-diagnostic approach of infertile couples and the recommendations concerning infertility are sometimes lacking, incomplete, or problematic to apply. Objective The aim of this work is to provide an appropriate clinical and diagnostic pathway for infertile couples designed by a multidisciplinary-team of experts. The rationale is based on the history and physical examination and then oriented on the basis of initial investigations. This approach could be applied in order to reduce variation in practice and to improve the investigation and management of fertility problems. Methods Prominent Italian experts of the main specialties committed in the ART procedures, including gynecologists, andrologists, embryologists, biologists, geneticists, oncologists, and microbiologists, called "InfertilItaly group", used available evidence to develop this expert position. Outcomes Starting from the individuation of the principal risk factors that may influence the fertility of females and males and both genders, the work group identified most appropriate procedures using a gradual approach to both partners aimed to obtain a precise diagnosis and the most effective therapeutic option, reducing invasive and occasionally redundant procedures. Conclusions This expert position provides current knowledge on risk factors and suggests a diagnostic workflow of infertile couples. By using this step-by-step approach, health care workers involved in ART, may individuate a practical clinical management of infertile couples shared by experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Garolla
- Section of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine & Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Damiano Pizzol
- Section of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine & Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, Public Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Borini
- 9.baby, Family and Fertility Center, Tecnobios Procreazione, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Eugenio Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Lanzone
- Department of Woman’s Health Sciences of the Child and Public Health, Unit of Obstetrics Pathology, University Clinic Foundation “A Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Tomei
- Assisted Reproductive Unit, Santa Maria degli Angeli Hospital, Pordenone, Italy
| | - Bruno Engl
- Donna Salus, Center for Women’s Health and Fertility, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- GENERA Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia De Santis
- IVF Unit, Gynaecological-Obstetric Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
- Italian Society of Embryology, Reproduction and Research (SIERR), Giarre, Italy
| | - Giovanni Coticchio
- 9.baby, Family and Fertility Center, Tecnobios Procreazione, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lee Smith
- The Cambridge Centre for Sport & Exercise Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Attilio Anastasi
- Center for Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Delta Hospital, Lagosanto, Italy
| | - Massimo Menegazzo
- Section of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine & Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Christian Corsini
- Section of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine & Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Section of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine & Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Cangiano B, Swee DS, Quinton R, Bonomi M. Genetics of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: peculiarities and phenotype of an oligogenic disease. Hum Genet 2020; 140:77-111. [PMID: 32200437 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A genetic basis of congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can be defined in almost 50% of cases, albeit not necessarily the complete genetic basis. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques have led to the discovery of a great number of loci, each of which has illuminated our understanding of human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, either in respect of their embryonic development or their neuroendocrine regulation as the "pilot light" of human reproduction. However, because each new gene linked to CHH only seems to underpin another small percentage of total patient cases, we are still far from achieving a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of CHH. Patients have generally not benefited from advances in genetics in respect of novel therapies. In most cases, even genetic counselling is limited by issues of apparent variability in expressivity and penetrance that are likely underpinned by oligogenicity in respect of known and unknown genes. Robust genotype-phenotype relationships can generally only be established for individuals who are homozygous, hemizygous or compound heterozygotes for the same gene of variant alleles that are predicted to be deleterious. While certain genes are purely associated with normosmic CHH (nCHH) some purely with the anosmic form (Kallmann syndrome-KS), other genes can be associated with both nCHH and KS-sometimes even within the same kindred. Even though the anticipated genetic overlap between CHH and constitutional delay in growth and puberty (CDGP) has not materialised, previously unanticipated genetic relationships have emerged, comprising conditions of combined (or multiple) pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and CHARGE syndrome. In this review, we report the current evidence in relation to phenotype and genetic peculiarities regarding 60 genes whose loss-of-function variants can disrupt the central regulation of reproduction at many levels: impairing GnRH neurons migration, differentiation or activation; disrupting neuroendocrine control of GnRH secretion; preventing GnRH neuron migration or function and/or gonadotropin secretion and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - Du Soon Swee
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Richard Quinton
- Endocrine Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK. .,Translational and Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK.
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy.
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Salonia A, Rastrelli G, Hackett G, Seminara SB, Huhtaniemi IT, Rey RA, Hellstrom WJG, Palmert MR, Corona G, Dohle GR, Khera M, Chan YM, Maggi M. Paediatric and adult-onset male hypogonadism. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:38. [PMID: 31147553 PMCID: PMC6944317 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-019-0087-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is of relevance in many processes related to the development, maturation and ageing of the male. Through this axis, a cascade of coordinated activities is carried out leading to sustained testicular endocrine function, with gonadal testosterone production, as well as exocrine function, with spermatogenesis. Conditions impairing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis during paediatric or pubertal life may result in delayed puberty. Late-onset hypogonadism is a clinical condition in the ageing male combining low concentrations of circulating testosterone and specific symptoms associated with impaired hormone production. Testosterone therapy for congenital forms of hypogonadism must be lifelong, whereas testosterone treatment of late-onset hypogonadism remains a matter of debate because of unclear indications for replacement, uncertain efficacy and potential risks. This Primer focuses on a reappraisal of the physiological role of testosterone, with emphasis on the critical interpretation of the hypogonadal conditions throughout the lifespan of the male individual, with the exception of hypogonadal states resulting from congenital disorders of sex development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Geoffrey Hackett
- Department of Urology, University of Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ilpo T Huhtaniemi
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, UK
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr César Bergadá' (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños R. Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Wayne J G Hellstrom
- Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Mark R Palmert
- Division of Endocrinology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Departments of Paediatrics and Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl Bologna Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gert R Dohle
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mohit Khera
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy
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Cangiano B, Duminuco P, Vezzoli V, Guizzardi F, Chiodini I, Corona G, Maggi M, Persani L, Bonomi M. Evidence for a Common Genetic Origin of Classic and Milder Adult-Onset Forms of Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8010126. [PMID: 30669598 PMCID: PMC6352096 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple metabolic and inflammatory mechanisms are considered the determinants of acquired functional isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) in males, whereas classic IHH is a rare congenital condition with a strong genetic background. Since we recently uncovered a frequent familiarity for classic IHH among patients with mild adult-onset hypogonadism (AO-IHH), here we performed a genetic characterization by next generation sequencing of 160 males with classic or “functional” forms. The prevalence of rare variants in 28 candidate genes was significantly higher than in controls in all IHH patients, independently of the age of IHH onset, degree of hypogonadism or presence of obesity. In fact, it did not differ among patients with classic or milder forms of IHH, however particular genes appear to be more specifically associated with one or the other category of IHH. ROC curves showed that Total Testosterone <6.05 nmol/L and an age of onset <41 years are sensitive cutoffs to identify patients with significantly higher chances of harboring rare IHH gene variants. In conclusion, rare IHH genes variants can frequently predispose to AO-IHH with acquired mild hormonal deficiencies. The identification of a genetic predisposition can improve the familial and individual management of AO-IHH and explain the heritability of congenital IHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Paolo Duminuco
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Valeria Vezzoli
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Fabiana Guizzardi
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda USL, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases & Lab. of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, 20149 Milan, Italy.
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Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism and Kleefstra Syndrome due to a Pathogenic Variant in the EHMT1 Gene: An Underrecognized Association. Case Rep Endocrinol 2018; 2018:4283267. [PMID: 30370152 PMCID: PMC6189678 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4283267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Kleefstra syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by intellectual disability, childhood hypotonia, and facial dysmorphisms. Genital anomalies such as micropenis, cryptorchidism, and hypospadias have been reported in 30-40% of males diagnosed with the disease. However, endocrinological investigations have been limited. We describe a case of an adolescent male with Kleefstra syndrome due to a pathogenic variant in the EHMT1 gene whose workup for isolated micropenis is suggestive of a partial hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. A possible endocrine mechanism of the genital anomaly associated with Kleefstra syndrome is discussed.
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Hietamäki J, Hero M, Holopainen E, Känsäkoski J, Vaaralahti K, Iivonen AP, Miettinen PJ, Raivio T. GnRH receptor gene mutations in adolescents and young adults presenting with signs of partial gonadotropin deficiency. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188750. [PMID: 29182666 PMCID: PMC5705112 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Biallelic, partial loss-of-function mutations in GNRHR cause a wide spectrum of reproductive phenotypes from constitutional delay of growth and puberty to complete congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. We studied the frequency of GNRHR, FGFR1, TAC3, and TACR3 mutations in nine adolescent and young adult females with clinical cues consistent with partial gonadotropin deficiency (stalled puberty, unexplained secondary amenorrhea), and describe phenotypic features and molecular genetic findings of monozygotic twin brothers with stalled puberty. Two girls out of nine (22%, 95%CI 6–55%) carried biallelic mutations in GNRHR. The girl with compound heterozygous c.317A>G p.(Gln106Arg) and c.924_926delCTT p.(Phe309del) GNRHR mutations displayed incomplete puberty and clinical signs of hypoestrogenism. The patient carrying a homozygous c.785G>A p.(Arg262Gln) mutation presented with signs of hypoestrogenism and unexplained secondary amenorrhea. None of the patients exhibited mutations in FGFR1, TAC3, or TACR3. The twin brothers, compound heterozygous for GNRHR mutations c.317A>G p.(Gln106Arg) and c.785G>A p.(Arg262Gln), presented with stalled puberty and were discordant for weight, and the heavier of them had lower testosterone levels. These results suggest that genetic testing of the GNRHR gene should be offered to adolescent females with low-normal gonadotropins and unexplained stalled puberty or menstrual dysfunction. In male patients with partial gonadotropin deficiency, excess adipose tissue may suppress hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Hietamäki
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail: (JH); (TR)
| | - Matti Hero
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elina Holopainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Känsäkoski
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirsi Vaaralahti
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna-Pauliina Iivonen
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi J. Miettinen
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, and Biomedicum Stem Cell Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taneli Raivio
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail: (JH); (TR)
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Lippincott MF, Chan YM, Delaney A, Rivera-Morales D, Butler JP, Seminara SB. Kisspeptin Responsiveness Signals Emergence of Reproductive Endocrine Activity: Implications for Human Puberty. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:3061-9. [PMID: 27214398 PMCID: PMC4971332 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-1545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Some patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) undergo spontaneous activation of their hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis resulting in normalization of steroidogenesis and/or gametogenesis, a phenomenon termed reversal. OBJECTIVE To assess the responsiveness of the GnRH neuronal network to exogenous kisspeptin administration in IHH patients who have undergone reversal. PARTICIPANTS Six men with congenital IHH and evidence for reversal. INTERVENTION Subjects underwent q10 min blood sampling to measure GnRH-induced LH secretion at baseline and in response to iv boluses of kisspeptin (0.24-2.4 nmol/kg) and GnRH (75 ng/kg). RESULTS Individuals with sustained reversal of their hypogonadotropism (spontaneous LH pulses) responded to exogenous kisspeptin with a GnRH-induced LH pulse. Individuals who had reversal but then subsequently suffered relapse of their IHH (loss of spontaneous LH pulsatility) did not respond to kisspeptin. CONCLUSIONS The ability of kisspeptin to stimulate a GnRH-induced LH pulse correlates with the presence of endogenous LH pulses. These data suggest that reversal of hypogonadotropism, and by extension sexual maturation, may be due to the acquisition of kisspeptin responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret F Lippincott
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Angela Delaney
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Dianali Rivera-Morales
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - James P Butler
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (M.F.L., Y.-M.C., D.R.-M., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Sleep Medicine (J.P.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Unit on Genetics of Puberty and Reproduction (A.D.), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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9
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Mao JF, Xu HL, Duan J, Chen RR, Li L, Li B, Nie M, Min L, Zhang HB, Wu XY. Reversal of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: a cohort study in Chinese patients. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:497-502. [PMID: 25578938 PMCID: PMC4430958 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.145072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) has traditionally been viewed as a life-long disease caused by a deficiency of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons, a portion of patients may gradually regain normal reproductive axis function during hormonal replacement therapy. The predictive factors for potential IHH reversal are largely unknown. The aim of our study was to investigate the incidence and clinical features of IHH male patients who had reversed reproductive axis function. In this retrospective cohort study, male IHH patients were classified into a reversal group (n = 18) and a nonreversal group (n = 336). Concentration of gonadotropins and testosterone, as well as testicle sizes and sperm counts, were determined. Of 354 IHH patients, 18 (5.1%) acquired normal reproductive function during treatment. The median age for reversal was 24 years old (range 21–34 years). Compared with the nonreversal group, the reversible group had higher basal luteinizing hormone (LH) (1.0 ± 0.7 IU l-1vs 0.4 ± 0.4 IU l−1, P < 0.05) and stimulated LH (28.3 ± 22.6 IU l−1vs 1.9 ± 1.1 IU l−1, P < 0.01) levels, as well as larger testicle size (5.1 ± 2.6 ml vs 1.5 ± 0.3 ml, P < 0.01), at the initial visit. In summary, larger testicle size and higher stimulated LH concentrations are favorite parameters for reversal. Our finding suggests that reversible patients may retain partially active reproductive axis function at initial diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xue-Yan Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
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True C, Nasrin Alam S, Cox K, Chan YM, Seminara SB. Neurokinin B is critical for normal timing of sexual maturation but dispensable for adult reproductive function in female mice. Endocrinology 2015; 156:1386-97. [PMID: 25574869 PMCID: PMC4399316 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Humans carrying mutations in neurokinin B (NKB) or the NKB receptor fail to undergo puberty due to decreased secretion of GnRH. Despite this pubertal delay, many of these patients go on to achieve activation of their hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in adulthood, a phenomenon termed reversal, indicating that NKB signaling may play a more critical role for the timing of pubertal development than adult reproductive function. NKB receptor-deficient mice are hypogonadotropic but have no defects in the timing of sexual maturation. The current study has performed the first phenotypic evaluation of mice bearing mutations in Tac2, the gene encoding the NKB ligand, to determine whether they have impaired sexual development similar to their human counterparts. Male Tac2-/- mice showed no difference in the timing of sexual maturation or fertility compared with wild-type littermates and were fertile. In contrast, Tac2-/- females had profound delays in sexual maturation, with time to vaginal opening and first estrus occurring significantly later than controls, and initial abnormalities in estrous cycles. However, cycling recovered in adulthood and Tac2-/- females were fertile, although they produced fewer pups per litter. Thus, female Tac2-/- mice parallel humans harboring NKB pathway mutations, with delayed sexual maturation and activation of the reproductive cascade later in life. Moreover, direct comparison of NKB ligand and receptor-deficient females confirmed that only NKB ligand-deficient animals have delayed sexual maturation, suggesting that in the absence of the NKB receptor, NKB may regulate the timing of sexual maturation through other tachykinin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cadence True
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (C.T., S.N.A., K.C., Y.-M.C., S.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; and Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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11
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Beneduzzi D, Trarbach EB, Min L, Jorge AAL, Garmes HM, Renk AC, Fichna M, Fichna P, Arantes KA, Costa EMF, Zhang A, Adeola O, Wen J, Carroll RS, Mendonça BB, Kaiser UB, Latronico AC, Silveira LFG. Role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor mutations in patients with a wide spectrum of pubertal delay. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:838-846.e2. [PMID: 25016926 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the GNRHR in patients with normosmic isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) and constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP). DESIGN Molecular analysis and in vitro experiments correlated with phenotype. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) A total of 110 individuals with normosmic IHH (74 male patients) and 50 with CDGP. INTERVENTION(S) GNRHR coding region was amplified and sequenced. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Novel variants were submitted to in vitro analysis. Frequency of mutations and genotype-phenotype correlation were analyzed. Microsatellite markers flanking GNRHR were examined in patients carrying the same mutation to investigate a possible founder effect. RESULT(S) Eleven IHH patients (10%) carried biallelic GNRHR mutations. In vitro analysis of novel variants (p.Y283H and p.V134G) demonstrated complete inactivation. The founder effect study revealed that Brazilian patients carrying the p.R139H mutation shared the same haplotype. Phenotypic spectrum in patients with GNRHR mutations varied from complete GnRH deficiency to partial and reversible IHH, with a relatively good genotype-phenotype correlation. One boy with CDGP was heterozygous for the p.Q106R variant, which was not considered to be pathogenic. CONCLUSION(S) GNRHR mutations are a frequent cause of congenital normosmic IHH and should be the first candidate gene for genetic screening in this condition, especially in autosomal recessive familial cases. The founder effect study suggested that the p.R139H mutation arises from a common ancestor in the Brazilian population. Finally, mutations in GNRHR do not appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of CDGP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiane Beneduzzi
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ericka B Trarbach
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética/LIM 25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Le Min
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alexander A L Jorge
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética/LIM 25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heraldo M Garmes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Universidade de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Marta Fichna
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences and Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Fichna
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Karina A Arantes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética/LIM 25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elaine M F Costa
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anna Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Oluwaseun Adeola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Junping Wen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rona S Carroll
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Berenice B Mendonça
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ana Claudia Latronico
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia F G Silveira
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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12
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Sidhoum VF, Chan YM, Lippincott MF, Balasubramanian R, Quinton R, Plummer L, Dwyer A, Pitteloud N, Hayes FJ, Hall JE, Martin KA, Boepple PA, Seminara SB. Reversal and relapse of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: resilience and fragility of the reproductive neuroendocrine system. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:861-70. [PMID: 24423288 PMCID: PMC3942233 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-2809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT A subset of patients diagnosed with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) later achieves activation of their hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis with normalization of steroidogenesis and/or gametogenesis, a phenomenon termed reversal. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the natural history of reversal and to identify associated phenotypes and genotypes. DESIGN, SETTING, AND SUBJECTS This was a retrospective review of clinical, biochemical, and genetic features of patients with IHH evaluated at an academic medical center. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES History of spontaneous fertility, regular menses, testicular growth, or normalization of serum sex steroids, LH secretory profiles, brain imaging findings, and sequences of 14 genes associated with IHH were reviewed. RESULTS Of 308 patients with IHH, 44 underwent reversal. Time-to-event analysis estimated a lifetime incidence of reversal of 22%. There were no differences in the rates of cryptorchidism, micropenis, or partial pubertal development in patients with reversal vs IHH patients without reversal. Fifteen patients with reversal (30%) had Kallmann syndrome (IHH and anosmia); one had undetectable olfactory bulbs on a brain magnetic resonance imaging scan. Subjects with reversal were enriched for mutations affecting neurokinin B signaling compared with a cohort of IHH patients without reversal (10% vs 3%, P = .044), had comparable frequencies of mutations in FGFR1, PROKR2, and GNRHR, and had no mutations in KAL1. Five men did not sustain their reversal and again developed hypogonadotropism. CONCLUSIONS Reversal of IHH may be more widespread than previously appreciated and occurs across a broad range of genotypes and phenotypes. Enrichment for mutations that disrupt neurokinin B signaling in patients who reversed indicates that, despite the importance of this signaling pathway for normal pubertal timing, its function is dispensable later in life. The occurrence of reversal in a patient with no olfactory bulbs demonstrates that these structures are not essential for normal reproductive function. Patients with IHH require lifelong monitoring for reversal and, if reversal occurs, subsequent relapse also may occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie F Sidhoum
- Harvard Center for Reproductive Endocrine Sciences and Reproductive Endocrine Unit (V.F.S., Y.-M.C., M.F.L., R.B., L.P., A.D., N.P., F.J.H., J.E.H., K.A.M., P.A.B., S.B.S.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; Division of Endocrinology (Y.-M.C.), Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; and Department of Endocrinology (R.Q.), Institute for Human Genetics, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 3BZ, United Kingdom
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13
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Grinspon RP, Loreti N, Braslavsky D, Valeri C, Schteingart H, Ballerini MG, Bedecarrás P, Ambao V, Gottlieb S, Ropelato MG, Bergadá I, Campo SM, Rey RA. Spreading the clinical window for diagnosing fetal-onset hypogonadism in boys. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:51. [PMID: 24847309 PMCID: PMC4019849 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In early fetal development, the testis secretes - independent of pituitary gonadotropins - androgens and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) that are essential for male sex differentiation. In the second half of fetal life, the hypothalamic-pituitary axis gains control of testicular hormone secretion. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) controls Sertoli cell proliferation, responsible for testis volume increase and AMH and inhibin B secretion, whereas luteinizing hormone (LH) regulates Leydig cell androgen and INSL3 secretion, involved in the growth and trophism of male external genitalia and in testis descent. This differential regulation of testicular function between early and late fetal periods underlies the distinct clinical presentations of fetal-onset hypogonadism in the newborn male: primary hypogonadism results in ambiguous or female genitalia when early fetal-onset, whereas it becomes clinically undistinguishable from central hypogonadism when established later in fetal life. The assessment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in male has classically relied on the measurement of gonadotropin and testosterone levels in serum. These hormone levels normally decline 3-6 months after birth, thus constraining the clinical evaluation window for diagnosing male hypogonadism. The advent of new markers of gonadal function has spread this clinical window beyond the first 6 months of life. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of old and new markers used for the functional assessment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in boys suspected of fetal-onset hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nazareth Loreti
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Débora Braslavsky
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara Valeri
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Helena Schteingart
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Gabriela Ballerini
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Bedecarrás
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica Ambao
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Gottlieb
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Gabriela Ropelato
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ignacio Bergadá
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Stella M. Campo
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Rodolfo A. Rey, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330, Buenos Aires C1425EFD, Argentina e-mail:
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14
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Marino M, Moriondo V, Vighi E, Pignatti E, Simoni M. Central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: genetic complexity of a complex disease. Int J Endocrinol 2014; 2014:649154. [PMID: 25254043 PMCID: PMC4165873 DOI: 10.1155/2014/649154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is an emerging pathological condition frequently associated with overweight, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and midline defects. The genetic mechanisms involve mutations in at least twenty-four genes regulating GnRH neuronal migration, secretion, and activity. So far, the mechanisms underlying CHH, both in prepubertal and in adulthood onset forms, remain unknown in most of the cases. Indeed, all detected gene variants may explain a small proportion of the affected patients (43%), indicating that other genes or epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the onset of CHH. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on genetic background of CHH, organizing the large amount of data present in the literature in a clear and concise manner, to produce a useful guide available for researchers and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
- *Marco Marino:
| | - Valeria Moriondo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Vighi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Pignatti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Azienda USL of Modena, Via San Giovanni del Cantone 23, 41121 Modena, Italy
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Kulshreshtha B, Khadgawat R, Gupta N, Ammini A. Progression of puberty after initiation of androgen therapy in patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2013; 17:851-854. [PMID: 24083166 PMCID: PMC3784868 DOI: 10.4103/2230-8210.117245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Onset of puberty in boys usually occurs by 14 years of age. Some boys may exhibit delayed sexual maturation till about 17-18 years of age. However, pubertal onset beyond 18 years of age is exceedingly rare. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients diagnosed as idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) who had onset of puberty (increase in testicular volume >10 ml) while on androgen therapy were studied. These patients were evaluated prospectively. RESULTS There were nine subjects that were included in the study. The pre-therapy testicular volumes ranged from 3 to 6 ml. Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increased from 1.2 ± 0.96 to 2.8 ± 1.0 IU/L, follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) levels increased from 1.5 ± 0.79 to 3.5 ± 1.9 IU/L, and testosterone increased from 0.36 ± 0.16 to 3.4 ± 2.1 ng/ml. Three out of nine patients had testosterone levels below 3 ng/ml. CONCLUSION Our present study indicates that pubertal development can occur in patients presenting with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism after 18 years of age. However, acquired pubertal status may be subnormal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu Kulshreshtha
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Rajesh Khadgawat
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Nandita Gupta
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Ariachery Ammini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
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16
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Chew S, Balasubramanian R, Chan WM, Kang PB, Andrews C, Webb BD, MacKinnon SE, Oystreck DT, Rankin J, Crawford TO, Geraghty M, Pomeroy SL, Crowley WF, Jabs EW, Hunter DG, Grant PE, Engle EC. A novel syndrome caused by the E410K amino acid substitution in the neuronal β-tubulin isotype 3. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 136:522-35. [PMID: 23378218 DOI: 10.1093/brain/aws345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Missense mutations in TUBB3, the gene that encodes the neuronal-specific protein β-tubulin isotype 3, can cause isolated or syndromic congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles, a form of complex congenital strabismus characterized by cranial nerve misguidance. One of the eight TUBB3 mutations reported to cause congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles, c.1228G>A results in a TUBB3 E410K amino acid substitution that directly alters a kinesin motor protein binding site. We report the detailed phenotypes of eight unrelated individuals who harbour this de novo mutation, and thus define the 'TUBB3 E410K syndrome'. Individuals harbouring this mutation were previously reported to have congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles, facial weakness, developmental delay and possible peripheral neuropathy. We now confirm by electrophysiology that a progressive sensorimotor polyneuropathy does indeed segregate with the mutation, and expand the TUBB3 E410K phenotype to include Kallmann syndrome (hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and anosmia), stereotyped midface hypoplasia, intellectual disabilities and, in some cases, vocal cord paralysis, tracheomalacia and cyclic vomiting. Neuroimaging reveals a thin corpus callosum and anterior commissure, and hypoplastic to absent olfactory sulci, olfactory bulbs and oculomotor and facial nerves, which support underlying abnormalities in axon guidance and maintenance. Thus, the E410K substitution defines a new genetic aetiology for Moebius syndrome, Kallmann syndrome and cyclic vomiting. Moreover, the c.1228G>A mutation was absent in DNA from ∼600 individuals who had either Kallmann syndrome or isolated or syndromic ocular and/or facial dysmotility disorders, but who did not have the combined features of the TUBB3 E410K syndrome, highlighting the specificity of this phenotype-genotype correlation. The definition of the TUBB3 E410K syndrome will allow clinicians to identify affected individuals and predict the mutation based on clinical features alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Chew
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Hamada AJ, Esteves SC, Agarwal A. A comprehensive review of genetics and genetic testing in azoospermia. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:39-60. [PMID: 23503954 PMCID: PMC3583155 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia due to obstructive and non-obstructive mechanisms is a common manifestation of male infertility accounting for 10-15% of such cases. Known genetic factors are responsible for approximately 1/3 of cases of azoospermia. Nonetheless, at least 40% of cases are currently categorized as idiopathic and may be linked to unknown genetic abnormalities. It is recommended that various genetic screening tests are performed in azoospermic men, given that their results may play vital role in not only identifying the etiology but also in preventing the iatrogenic transmission of genetic defects to offspring via advanced assisted conception techniques. In the present review, we examine the current genetic information associated with azoospermia based on results from search engines, such as PUBMED, OVID, SCIENCE DIRECT and SCOPUS. We also present a critical appraisal of use of genetic testing in this subset of infertile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa J Hamada
- Cleveland Clinic, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Shekhar S. Familial normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: is there a phenotypic marker for each genetic mutation? Report of three cases and review of literature. BMJ Case Rep 2012; 2012:bcr-2012-007537. [PMID: 23230250 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2012-007537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH) is familial in one-third of cases and multiple modes of inheritance have been described. Phenotypic spectrum of GNRHR mutations has been found to be widest without any pathognomonic phenotypic feature. However, in subjects of nIHH with TAC3/TAC3R mutations preservation of follicle stimulating hormone secretion is a characteristic feature and has been suggested as phenotypic marker. Despite a paucity of subjects with homozygous frame shift mutations of GNRH, there is remarkable similarity in the phenotypic features and neuroendocrine profile of these few subjects with GNRH mutations. We describe here three members of a family with nIHH and autosomal mode of inheritance with remarkably similar phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Shekhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr RPGMC Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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Gürbüz F, Kotan LD, Mengen E, Şıklar Z, Berberoğlu M, Dökmetaş S, Kılıçlı MF, Güven A, Kirel B, Saka N, Poyrazoğlu Ş, Cesur Y, Doğan M, Özen S, Özbek MN, Demirbilek H, Kekil MB, Temiz F, Önenli Mungan N, Yüksel B, Topaloğlu AK. Distribution of gene mutations associated with familial normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2012; 4:121-6. [PMID: 22766261 PMCID: PMC3459159 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH) is characterized by failure of initiation or maintenance of puberty due to insufficient gonadotropin release, which is not associated with anosmia/hyposmia. The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of causative mutations in a hereditary form of nIHH. METHODS In this prospective collaborative study, 22 families with more than one affected individual (i.e. multiplex families) with nIHH were recruited and screened for genes known or suspected to be strong candidates for nIHH. RESULTS Mutations were identified in five genes (GNRHR, TACR3, TAC3, KISS1R, and KISS1) in 77% of families with autosomal recessively inherited nIHH. GNRHR and TACR3 mutations were the most common two causative mutations occurring with about equal frequency. CONCLUSIONS Mutations in these five genes account for about three quarters of the causative mutations in nIHH families with more than one affected individual. This frequency is significantly greater than the previously reported rates in all inclusive (familial plus sporadic) cohorts. GNRHR and TACR3 should be the first two genes to be screened for diagnostic purposes. Identification of causative mutations in the remaining families will shed light on the regulation of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Gürbüz
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
| | - L. Damla Kotan
- Çukurova University Institute of Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Eda Mengen
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Şıklar
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Merih Berberoğlu
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sebila Dökmetaş
- Cumhuriyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Fatih Kılıçlı
- Cumhuriyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ayla Güven
- Göztepe Educational and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Birgül Kirel
- Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Nurçin Saka
- İstanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Şükran Poyrazoğlu
- İstanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Yaşar Cesur
- Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Van, Turkey
| | - Murat Doğan
- Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Van, Turkey
| | - Samim Özen
- Mersin Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Nuri Özbek
- Diyarbakır Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Demirbilek
- Diyarbakır Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - M. Burcu Kekil
- Çukurova University Institute of Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fatih Temiz
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Neslihan Önenli Mungan
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Bilgin Yüksel
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ali Kemal Topaloğlu
- Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Adana, Turkey
,
Çukurova University Institute of Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Adana, Turkey
,* Address for Correspondence :growth Phone : +90 322 338 70 83 E-mail :
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Gianetti E, Hall JE, Au MG, Kaiser UB, Quinton R, Stewart JA, Metzger DL, Pitteloud N, Mericq V, Merino PM, Levitsky LL, Izatt L, Lang-Muritano M, Fujimoto VY, Dluhy RG, Chase ML, Crowley WF, Plummer L, Seminara SB. When genetic load does not correlate with phenotypic spectrum: lessons from the GnRH receptor (GNRHR). J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:E1798-807. [PMID: 22745237 PMCID: PMC3431570 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-1264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT A broad spectrum of GnRH-deficient phenotypes has been identified in individuals with both mono- and biallelic GNRHR mutations. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine the correlation between the severity of the reproductive phenotype(s) and the number and functional severity of rare sequence variants in GNRHR. SUBJECTS Eight hundred sixty-three probands with different forms of GnRH deficiency, 46 family members and 422 controls were screened for GNRHR mutations. The 70 subjects (32 patients and 38 family members) harboring mutations were divided into four groups (G1-G4) based on the functional severity of the mutations (complete or partial loss of function) and the number of affected alleles (monoallelic or biallelic) with mutations, and these classes were mapped on their clinical phenotypes. RESULTS The prevalence of heterozygous rare sequence variants in GNRHR was significantly higher in probands vs. controls (P < 0.01). Among the G1-G3 groups (homozygous subjects with successively decreasing severity and number of mutations), the hypogonadotropic phenotype related to their genetic load. In contrast, subjects in G4, with only monoallelic mutations, demonstrated a greater diversity of clinical phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS In patients with GnRH deficiency and biallelic mutations in GNRHR, genetic burden defined by severity and dose is associated with clinical phenotype. In contrast, for patients with monoallelic GNRHR mutations this correlation does not hold. Taken together, these data indicate that as-yet-unidentified genetic and/or environmental factors may combine with singly mutated GNRHR alleles to produce reproductive phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Gianetti
- Harvard Center for Reproductive Sciences and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, BHX 504, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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21
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Reversible congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in patients with CHD7, FGFR1 or GNRHR mutations. PLoS One 2012; 7:e39450. [PMID: 22724017 PMCID: PMC3378565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) is a rare cause for delayed or absent puberty. These patients may recover from HH spontaneously in adulthood. To date, it is not possible to predict who will undergo HH reversal later in life. Herein we investigated whether Finnish patients with reversal of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) have common phenotypic or genotypic features. Methods and Findings Thirty-two male HH patients with anosmia/hyposmia (Kallmann Syndrome, KS; n = 26) or normal sense of smell (nHH; n = 6) were enrolled (age range, 18–61 yrs). The patients were clinically examined, and reversal of HH was assessed after treatment withdrawal. KAL1, FGFR1, FGF8, PROK2, PROKR2, CHD7, WDR11, GNRHR, GNRH1, KISS1R, KISS1, TAC3, TACR3, and LHβ were screened for mutations. Six HH patients (2 KS, 4 nHH) were verified to have reversal of HH. In the majority of cases, reversal occurred early in adulthood (median age, 23 yrs; range, 21–39 yrs). All had spontaneous testicular growth while on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). One nHH subject was restarted on TRT due to a decline in serum T. Two reversal variants had a same GNRHR mutation (R262Q), which was accompanied by another GNRHR mutation (R139H or del309F). In addition, both of the KS patients had a mutation in CHD7 (p.Q51X) or FGFR1 (c.91+2T>A). Conclusions Considerable proportion of patients with HH (8% of KS probands) may recover in early adulthood. Spontaneous testicular enlargement during TRT was highly suggestive for reversal of HH. Those with the GNRHR mutation R262Q accompanied by another GNRHR mutation may be prone to reversal, although even patients with a truncating mutation in CHD7 or a splice-site mutation in FGFR1 can recover. We recommend that all adolescents and young adults with congenital HH should be informed on the possibility of reversal.
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Abstract
In the past two decades, an increasing body of evidence has demonstrated that several G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-ligand pairs are critical for normal human reproductive development and function. Patients harboring genetic insults in either the receptors or their cognate ligands have presented with reproductive disorders characterized by varying degrees of GnRH deficiency. These disorders include idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) and Kallmann Syndrome (KS). Conversely, mutations in some of these ligand-receptor pairs have been associated with accelerated reproductive maturation, manifested as central precocious puberty (CPP). To date, a series of elegant studies have characterized four GPCRs that play important roles in the neuroendocrine control of human reproductive development and function: GnRHR, KISS1R, PROKR2 and NK3R. Furthermore, these studies provide insights into the mechanisms by which mutations in these receptors give rise to reproductive disease phenotypes. This report will review mutations identified in GPCRs involved in the neuroendocrine control of the human reproductive axis with the aims of elucidating structure-function relationships of these GPCRs and identifying correlations between these structure-function relationships and the genotypic-phenotypic characterization of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sekoni D Noel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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23
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Sykiotis GP, Plummer L, Hughes VA, Au M, Durrani S, Nayak-Young S, Dwyer AA, Quinton R, Hall JE, Gusella JF, Seminara SB, Crowley WF, Pitteloud N. Oligogenic basis of isolated gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiency. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:15140-4. [PMID: 20696889 PMCID: PMC2930591 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1009622107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Between the genetic extremes of rare monogenic and common polygenic diseases lie diverse oligogenic disorders involving mutations in more than one locus in each affected individual. Elucidating the principles of oligogenic inheritance and mechanisms of genetic interactions could help unravel the newly appreciated role of rare sequence variants in polygenic disorders. With few exceptions, however, the precise genetic architecture of oligogenic diseases remains unknown. Isolated gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency caused by defective secretion or action of hypothalamic GnRH is a rare genetic disease that manifests as sexual immaturity and infertility. Recent reports of patients who harbor pathogenic rare variants in more than one gene have challenged the long-held view that the disorder is strictly monogenic, yet the frequency and extent of oligogenicity in isolated GnRH deficiency have not been investigated. By systematically defining genetic variants in large cohorts of well-phenotyped patients (n = 397), family members, and unaffected subjects (n = 179) for the majority of known disease genes, this study suggests a significant role of oligogenicity in this disease. Remarkably, oligogenicity in isolated GnRH deficiency was as frequent as homozygosity/compound heterozygosity at a single locus (2.5%). Among the 22% of patients with detectable rare protein-altering variants, the likelihood of oligogenicity was 11.3%. No oligogenicity was detected among controls (P < 0.05), even though deleterious variants were present. Viewing isolated GnRH deficiency as an oligogenic condition has implications for understanding the pathogenesis of its reproductive and nonreproductive phenotypes; deciphering the etiology of common GnRH-related disorders; and modeling the genetic architecture of other oligogenic and multifactorial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerasimos P. Sykiotis
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Lacey Plummer
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Virginia A. Hughes
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Margaret Au
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Sadia Durrani
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Sadhana Nayak-Young
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Andrew A. Dwyer
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE3 2NJ, United Kingdom
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 3BZ, United Kingdom; and
| | - Janet E. Hall
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - James F. Gusella
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Stephanie B. Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - William F. Crowley
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
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24
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Kim HG, Pedersen-White J, Bhagavath B, Layman LC. Genotype and phenotype of patients with gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor mutations. FRONTIERS OF HORMONE RESEARCH 2010; 39:94-110. [PMID: 20389088 DOI: 10.1159/000312696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Human mutations in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GNRHR) gene cause autosomal recessive, normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH). At least 19 different mutations have been identified in this G-protein-coupled receptor, which consist mostly of missense mutations. The Gln106Arg and Arg262Gln mutations comprise nearly half of the identified alleles. Most mutations impair ligand binding and all compromise cell signaling events. Some of the mutations also adversely affect activation of gonadotropin subunit or Gnrhr gene promoters. Interestingly, a number of the mutant GnRHRs can be rescued in vitro from misfolding and degradation within the cell by the addition of a GnRHR antagonist IN3. Most affected patients have compound heterozygous GNRHR mutations that may cause either complete IHH (no evidence of puberty) or incomplete IHH (partial evidence of puberty), although some genotypes are associated with mild disease in some families and severe disease in others. GNRHR mutations also appear to cause constitutional delay of puberty, and one genotype (homozygosity for Gln106Arg) may be reversible in patients with IHH. Mutations in the human GNRHR gene have contributed greatly to the understanding of normosmic IHH, as well as the structure and function of the GnRHR.
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25
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Balasubramanian R, Dwyer A, Seminara SB, Pitteloud N, Kaiser UB, Crowley WF. Human GnRH deficiency: a unique disease model to unravel the ontogeny of GnRH neurons. Neuroendocrinology 2010; 92:81-99. [PMID: 20606386 PMCID: PMC3214927 DOI: 10.1159/000314193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2010] [Accepted: 04/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Evolutionary survival of a species is largely a function of its reproductive fitness. In mammals, a sparsely populated and widely dispersed network of hypothalamic neurons, the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, serve as the pilot light of reproduction via coordinated secretion of GnRH. Since it first description, human GnRH deficiency has been recognized both clinically and genetically as a heterogeneous disease. A spectrum of different reproductive phenotypes comprised of congenital GnRH deficiency with anosmia (Kallmann syndrome), congenital GnRH deficiency with normal olfaction (normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism), and adult-onset hypogonadotropic hypogonadism has been described. In the last two decades, several genes and pathways which govern GnRH ontogeny have been discovered by studying humans with GnRH deficiency. More importantly, detailed study of these patients has highlighted the emerging theme of oligogenicity and genotypic synergism, and also expanded the phenotypic diversity with the documentation of reversal of GnRH deficiency later in adulthood in some patients. The underlying genetic defect has also helped understand the associated nonreproductive phenotypes seen in some of these patients. These insights now provide practicing clinicians with targeted genetic diagnostic strategies and also impact on clinical management.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Extracellular Matrix Proteins/deficiency
- Extracellular Matrix Proteins/genetics
- Female
- Fibroblast Growth Factors/genetics
- Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism
- Gastrointestinal Hormones/genetics
- Gastrointestinal Hormones/metabolism
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/deficiency
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/genetics
- Humans
- Hypogonadism/genetics
- Hypothalamus/growth & development
- Kallmann Syndrome/genetics
- Male
- Mice
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/deficiency
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Neuropeptides/genetics
- Neuropeptides/metabolism
- Olfaction Disorders/genetics
- Phenotype
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/deficiency
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, Kisspeptin-1
- Receptors, LHRH/genetics
- Receptors, LHRH/metabolism
- Receptors, Neurokinin-3/genetics
- Receptors, Neurokinin-3/metabolism
- Receptors, Peptide/genetics
- Receptors, Peptide/metabolism
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription Factors/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - William F. Crowley
- *William F. Crowley, Jr., Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center of Excellence, Massachusetts General Hospital, Bartlett Hall Extension 5th Floor, 55, Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114 (USA), Tel. +1 617 726 5390, Fax +1 617 726 5357, E-Mail
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26
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Raivio T, Sidis Y, Plummer L, Chen H, Ma J, Mukherjee A, Jacobson-Dickman E, Quinton R, Van Vliet G, Lavoie H, Hughes VA, Dwyer A, Hayes FJ, Xu S, Sparks S, Kaiser UB, Mohammadi M, Pitteloud N. Impaired fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 signaling as a cause of normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:4380-90. [PMID: 19820032 PMCID: PMC2775659 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-0179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT FGFR1 mutations have been identified in about 10% of patients with Kallmann syndrome. Recently cases of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) with a normal sense of smell (nIHH) have been reported. AIMS The objective of the study was to define the frequency of FGFR1 mutations in a large cohort of nIHH, delineate the spectrum of reproductive phenotypes, assess functionality of the FGFR1 mutant alleles in vitro, and investigate genotype-phenotype relationships. DESIGN FGFR1 sequencing of 134 well-characterized nIHH patients (112 men and 22 women) and 270 healthy controls was performed. The impact of the identified mutations on FGFR1 function was assessed using structural prediction and in vitro studies. RESULTS Nine nIHH subjects (five males and four females; 7%) harbor a heterozygous mutation in FGFR1 and exhibit a wide spectrum of pubertal development, ranging from absent puberty to reversal of IHH in both sexes. All mutations impair receptor function. The Y99C, Y228D, and I239T mutants impair the tertiary folding, resulting in incomplete glycosylation and reduced cell surface expression. The R250Q mutant reduces receptor affinity for FGF. The K618N, A671P, and Q680X mutants impair tyrosine kinase activity. However, the degree of functional impairment of the mutant receptors did not always correlate with the reproductive phenotype, and variable expressivity of the disease was noted within family members carrying the same FGFR1 mutation. These discrepancies were partially explained by additional mutations in known IHH loci. CONCLUSIONS Loss-of-function mutations in FGFR1 underlie 7% of nIHH with different degrees of impairment in vitro. These mutations act in concert with other gene defects in several cases, consistent with oligogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taneli Raivio
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, The Harvard Center for Reproductive Endocrine Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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27
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Abstract
Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) has an incidence of 1-10 cases per 100,000 births. About 60% of patients with IHH present with associated anosmia, also known as Kallmann syndrome, characterized by total or partial loss of olfaction. Many of the gene mutations associated with Kallmann syndrome have been mapped to KAL1 or FGFR1. However, together, these mutations account for only about 15% of Kallmann syndrome cases. More recently, mutations in PROK2 and PROKR2 have been linked to the syndrome and may account for an additional 5-10% of cases. The remaining 40% of patients with IHH have a normal sense of smell. Prior to 2003, the only gene linked to normosmic IHH was the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor gene. However, mutations in this receptor are believed to account for only 10% of cases. Subsequently, mutations in KISS1R, TAC3 and TACR3 were identified as causes of normosmic IHH. Certain genes, including PROK2 and FGFR1, are associated with both anosmic and normosmic IHH. Despite recent advances in the field, the genetic causes of the majority of cases of IHH remain unknown. This Review discusses genes associated with hypogonadotropic disorders and the molecular mechanisms by which mutations in these genes may result in IHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzy D C Bianco
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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28
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Pitteloud N, Thambundit A, Dwyer AA, Falardeau JL, Plummer L, Caronia LM, Hayes FJ, Lee H, Boepple PA, Crowley WF. Role of seminiferous tubular development in determining the FSH versus LH responsiveness to GnRH in early sexual maturation. Neuroendocrinology 2009; 90:260-8. [PMID: 19829004 PMCID: PMC2826435 DOI: 10.1159/000245383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2008] [Accepted: 04/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of sexual maturation at puberty is a unique developmental period from a neuroendocrine perspective in that it is characterized by enhanced FSH secretion and FSH responsiveness to exogenous GnRH (vs. LH) from the gonadotrope, yet the mechanism of these dynamics remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate this phenomenon using a human disease model of GnRH deficiency (idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, IHH) in which GnRH input can be experimentally controlled. METHODS 25 GnRH-deficient men were selected for study based upon their baseline testicular volumes (TV) and serum inhibin B (I(B)) levels to represent a spectrum of pubertal/testicular development. Subjects underwent: (i) a 12-hour overnight neuroendocrine evaluation for hormonal profiling and determination of endogenous LH secretion pattern, and (ii) a 7-day exposure to a physiologic regimen of exogenous pulsatile GnRH (25 ng/kg every 2 h). Daily measurements of serum testosterone (T) and I(B) levels were made and a 2-hour window of frequent blood sampling was monitored to measure LH and FSH following a single i.v. GnRH bolus (25 ng/kg). All subjects were screened for known loci underlying GnRH deficiency and the response to GnRH was tracked according to genotype. RESULTS Among the entire cohort, no changes were noted in serum T or I(B) during the 7 days, thus keeping gonadal feedback relatively constant. However, serum LH and FSH levels increased significantly (p < 0.0001) in the entire cohort. When analyzed by degree of pubertal/testicular development, men with no evidence of prior spontaneous pubertal development (TV <or=3 ml, Group I) showed sharp increases in serum FSH compared to men with some prior evidence of partial puberty (TV >3 ml, Group II, p < 0.0001). Group I exhibited a decreased LH response to GnRH on day 2 compared to day 1 (p < 0.01), which did not recover until day 5 (1-4 vs. 5-7 days, p < 0.0001). Group II displayed robust and equivalent LH responses to GnRH throughout the 7-day study. Genetic studies identified 8 mutations in 4 different loci (DAX1, KAL1, GNRHR, and FGFR1) in this cohort. CONCLUSIONS GnRH-deficient men undergoing GnRH-induced sexual maturation display an inverse relationship between FSH responsiveness to GnRH and baseline testicular size and I(B) levels. This observation implies that increasing seminiferous tubule maturity represents the major constraint on FSH responsiveness to GnRH in early puberty. In contrast, LH responsiveness to GnRH correlates directly with duration of GnRH exposure. Attenuated pituitary gonadotropin responses were noted in subjects harboring DAX1 mutations, consistent with known pituitary defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly Pitteloud
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Lin L, Conway GS, Hill NR, Dattani MT, Hindmarsh PC, Achermann JC. A homozygous R262Q mutation in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor presenting as constitutional delay of growth and puberty with subsequent borderline oligospermia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:5117-21. [PMID: 16968799 PMCID: PMC1865483 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2006-0807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The GnRH receptor plays a central role in regulating gonadotropin synthesis and release, and several mutations in the GNRHR gene have been reported in patients with idiopathic or familial forms of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH). OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to investigate whether partial loss-of-function mutations in the GnRH receptor might be responsible for delayed puberty phenotypes. PATIENTS Patients included sibling pairs with delayed puberty (n = 8) or those in whom one brother had delayed puberty and another had hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (n = 3). METHODS Methods included mutational analysis of the GNRHR gene. RESULTS A homozygous R262Q mutation in the GnRH receptor was identified in two brothers from one family. In this kindred, the proband presented at 15 yr of age with delayed puberty. After a short course of testosterone, he seemed to be progressing through puberty appropriately and was discharged from follow-up. His younger brother was also referred with delayed puberty but showed little progress after treatment. Frequent sampling revealed detectable but apulsatile LH and FSH release. His clinical progress was consistent with IHH, and he requires ongoing testosterone replacement. CONCLUSIONS Homozygous partial loss-of-function mutations in the GnRH receptor, such as R262Q, can present with variable phenotypes including apparent delayed puberty. Ongoing clinical vigilance might be required when patients are discharged from follow-up, especially when there is a family history of delayed puberty or IHH because oligospermia and reduced bone mineralization can occur with time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Institute of Child Health and Department of Medicine, University College London, UK
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