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Wang L, Mitsui T, Ishida M, Izawa M, Arita J. Rasd1 is an estrogen-responsive immediate early gene and modulates expression of late genes in rat anterior pituitary cells. Endocr J 2017; 64:1063-1071. [PMID: 28835591 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej17-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Dexamethasone-induced Ras-related protein 1 (Rasd1) is a member of the Ras superfamily of monomeric G proteins that have a regulatory function in signal transduction. Here we investigated the role of Rasd1 in regulating estrogen-induced gene expression in primary cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells. Rasd1 mRNA expression in anterior pituitary cells decreased after treatment with forskolin or serum and increased after treatment with 17β-estradiol (E2). Increases in Rasd1 mRNA expression occurred as early as 0.5 h after E2 treatment, peaked at 1 h and were sustained for as long as 96 h. This rapid and profound increase in Rasd1 mRNA expression induced by E2 was also seen in GH4C1 cells, an estrogen receptor-positive somatolactotroph cell line. Among pituitary estrogen-responsive late genes studied, basal mRNA expression of Pim3 and Igf1 genes was decreased by RNA interference-mediated knockdown of Rasd1 expression, whereas basal expression of the Giot1 gene was increased. Moreover, Rasd1 knockdown enhanced stimulation of Pim3 mRNA expression and attenuated inhibition of Fosl1 mRNA expression 24 h after E2 treatment. These changes in mRNA expression were accompanied by enhanced activity of promoters containing CRE, AP-1 and SRE binding sequences. These results suggest that Rasd1 is an estrogen-responsive immediate early gene and modulates E2 induction of at least several late genes in anterior pituitary cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linghong Wang
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Mitsui
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
| | - Maho Ishida
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
| | - Michi Izawa
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
| | - Jun Arita
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
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2
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Radi ZA, Khan NK. Comparative Expression and Distribution of c-fos, Estrogen Receptorα (ERα), and p38α in the Uterus of Rats, Monkeys, and Humans. Toxicol Pathol 2016; 34:327-35. [PMID: 16844660 DOI: 10.1080/01926230600773941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The uterine cellular expression and distribution of c-fos, ERα and p38α was compared in humans, nonhuman primates, and rats using immunohistochemistry. ERα and c-fos were present in the glandular (GE) and luminal epithelial cells (LE) of humans and nonhuman primates, with differing expression patterns evident between proliferative and secretory cycle phases. In rats, the highest and lowest expression of c-fos was present during proestrus and estrus, respectively, in the LE and GE. The most intense ERα staining in rats was observed during proestrus in the GE, while the least intense staining was seen in the LE during proestrus. Strong LE and GE expression of p38α as present in rats in all stages of the estrous cycle and during the proliferative phase in both humans and nonhuman primates. No p38α expression was observed during the secretory phase in either humans or nonhuman primates. Our work suggests that c- fos, ERα and p38α (a) are primarily expressed during the proliferative phase, but not the secretory phase and exhibit interspecies expression variability, and (b) rats exhibit cyclic changes in the expression of c- fos and ERα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaher A Radi
- Worldwide Safety Sciences, Pfizer Global Research and Development, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48105, USA.
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3
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Li H, Zhou J, Wei X, Chen R, Geng J, Zheng R, Chai J, Li F, Jiang S. miR-144 and targets, c-fos and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), modulate synthesis of PGE2 in the amnion during pregnancy and labor. Sci Rep 2016; 6:27914. [PMID: 27297132 PMCID: PMC4906292 DOI: 10.1038/srep27914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Labor is initiated as a result of hormonal changes that are induced by the activation of the inflammatory response and a series of biochemical events. The amnion, which is the primary source of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), plays an important role in the process of labor. In the present study, we uncovered a pathway in which c-fos, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and miR-144 function as hormonal modulators in the amnions of pregnant mice and humans. miR-144 down-regulated the synthesis of PGE2 during pregnancy by directly and indirectly inhibiting COX2 expression and by directly inhibiting the expression of c-fos, a transcriptional activator of COX2 and miR-144. Estrogen (E2) activated c-fos, thus promoting the expression of miR-144 and COX2 during labor. However, the increase in COX2 resulted in the partial inhibition of COX2 expression by miR-144, thereby slightly reducing the secretion of PGE2. These observations suggest that miR-144 inhibits PGE2 secretion by section to prevent the initiation of premature labor. Up-regulated expression of miR-144, c-fos and COX2 was also observed both in preterm mice and in mice undergoing normal labor. In summary, miR-144, c-fos and COX2 play important roles in regulating PGE2 secretion in the amnion during pregnancy and labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanan Li
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiajie Wei
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ran Chen
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Junnan Geng
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Chai
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenge Li
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Siwen Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China.,The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan 430070, China People's Republic of China
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4
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Wang N, Sun LY, Zhang SC, Wei R, Xie F, Liu J, Yan Y, Duan MJ, Sun LL, Sun YH, Niu HF, Zhang R, Ai J. MicroRNA-23a participates in estrogen deficiency induced gap junction remodeling of rats by targeting GJA1. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11:390-403. [PMID: 25798059 PMCID: PMC4366638 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.10930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased incidence of arrhythmias in women after menopause has been widely documented, which is considered to be related to estrogen (E2) deficiency induced cardiac electrophysiological abnormalities. However, its molecular mechanism remains incompletely clear. In the present study, we found cardiac conduction blockage in post-menopausal rats. Thereafter, the results showed that cardiac gap junctions were impaired and Connexin43 (Cx43) expression was reduced in the myocardium of post-menopausal rats. The phenomenon was also observed in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, which was attenuated by E2 supplement. Further study displayed that microRNA-23a (miR-23a) level was significantly increased in both post-menopausal and OVX rats, which was reversed by daily E2 treatment after OVX. Importantly, forced overexpression of miR-23a led to gap junction impairment and Cx43 downregulation in cultured cardiomyocytes, which was rescued by suppressing miR-23a by transfection of miR-23a specific inhibitory oligonucleotide (AMO-23a). GJA1 was identified as the target gene of miR-23a by luciferase assay and miRNA-masking antisense ODN (miR-Mask) assay. We also found that E2 supplement could reverse cardiac conduction blockage, Cx43 downregulation, gap junction remodeling and miR-23a upregulation in post-menopausal rats. These findings provide the evidence that miR-23a mediated repression of Cx43 participates in estrogen deficiency induced damages of cardiac gap junction, and highlights a new insight into molecular mechanism of post-menopause related arrhythmia at the microRNA level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Wang
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Lu-Yao Sun
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Shou-Chen Zhang
- 3. Electron Microscopy Center, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Ran Wei
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Fang Xie
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081 ; 2. Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Jing Liu
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Yan Yan
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Ming-Jing Duan
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Lin-Lin Sun
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Ying-Hui Sun
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Hui-Fang Niu
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Rong Zhang
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
| | - Jing Ai
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University (the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China), Harbin, People's Republic of China, 150081
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5
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MicroRNA-23a mediates mitochondrial compromise in estrogen deficiency-induced concentric remodeling via targeting PGC-1α. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2014; 75:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2014.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Prossnitz ER, Barton M. Estrogen biology: new insights into GPER function and clinical opportunities. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 389:71-83. [PMID: 24530924 PMCID: PMC4040308 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens play an important role in the regulation of normal physiology, aging and many disease states. Although the nuclear estrogen receptors have classically been described to function as ligand-activated transcription factors mediating genomic effects in hormonally regulated tissues, more recent studies reveal that estrogens also mediate rapid signaling events traditionally associated with G protein-coupled receptors. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER (formerly GPR30) has now become recognized as a major mediator of estrogen's rapid cellular effects throughout the body. With the discovery of selective synthetic ligands for GPER, both agonists and antagonists, as well as the use of GPER knockout mice, significant advances have been made in our understanding of GPER function at the cellular, tissue and organismal levels. In many instances, the protective/beneficial effects of estrogen are mimicked by selective GPER agonism and are absent or reduced in GPER knockout mice, suggesting an essential or at least parallel role for GPER in the actions of estrogen. In this review, we will discuss recent advances and our current understanding of the role of GPER and the activity of clinically used drugs, such as SERMs and SERDs, in physiology and disease. We will also highlight novel opportunities for clinical development towards GPER-targeted therapeutics, for molecular imaging, as well as for theranostic approaches and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNM Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA.
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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Inoue E, Hanai M, Yamada K, Esashi T, Yamauchi J. Transcriptional Coactivator p300/CBP-Associated Factor and p300/CBP-Associated Factor Type B Are Required for Normal Estrogen Response of the Mouse Uterus. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2014; 68:2209-11. [PMID: 15502373 DOI: 10.1271/bbb.68.2209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Mice with targeted gene disruption of one of the estrogen receptor coactivators, p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF), and its counterpart, PCAF-B, were used to investigate the possible involvement of PCAF and PCAF-B in estrogen receptor-mediated actions in vivo. Among ovariectomized mice that were treated with estrogen, PCAF and PCAF/PCAF-B knockouts showed abnormal growth of the uterus compared with the wild type. The level of c-fos gene expression in the uterus was not induced by estrogen in the knockouts. These observations suggest that PCAF and PCAF-B are required for estrogen-dependent normal growth of the uterus via estrogen receptor-mediated transcriptional regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erina Inoue
- Division of Applied Food Research, National Institute of Health and Nutrition, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8636, Japan
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8
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Tangen IL, Krakstad C, Halle MK, Werner HMJ, Øyan AM, Kusonmano K, Petersen K, Kalland KH, Akslen LA, Trovik J, Hurtado A, Salvesen HB. Switch in FOXA1 status associates with endometrial cancer progression. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98069. [PMID: 24849812 PMCID: PMC4029819 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transcription factor Forkhead box A1 (FOXA1) is suggested to be important in hormone dependent cancers, although with little data for endometrial cancer. We investigated expression levels of FOXA1 in primary and metastatic endometrial cancer in relation to clinical phenotype, and transcriptional alterations related to FOXA1 status. METHODS Protein expression of FOXA1 was explored by immunohistochemistry in 529 primary and 199 metastatic endometrial carcinoma lesions. mRNA levels from corresponding 158 fresh frozen primary and 42 metastatic lesions were analyzed using Agilent Microarrays (44k) in parallel. RESULTS Low FOXA1 protein expression in primary tumors significantly correlated with low FOXA1 mRNA, high age, non-endometrioid histology, high grade, loss of ERα and PR and poor survival (all p-values <0.05). Through a Connectivity Map search, HDAC inhibitors were suggested as potential treatment for patients with low FOXA1 expression. An increase in FOXA1 expression was observed from primary to metastatic lesions and it correlated with CDKN2A expression in metastases. CONCLUSION Low FOXA1 is associated with poor survival and suggests a potential for HDAC inhibitors in endometrial carcinoma. A switch in FOXA1 expression from primary to metastatic lesions is observed and gene expression indicates a link between FOXA1 and CDKN2A in metastatic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingvild Løberg Tangen
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Camilla Krakstad
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mari K. Halle
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Henrica M. J. Werner
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anne M. Øyan
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kanthida Kusonmano
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Computational Biology Unit, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kjell Petersen
- Computational Biology Unit, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Karl Henning Kalland
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars A. Akslen
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jone Trovik
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Antoni Hurtado
- Breast Cancer Research group, Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Helga B. Salvesen
- Center for Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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9
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The estrogen receptor joins other cancer biomarkers as a predictor of outcome. Obstet Gynecol Int 2013; 2013:479541. [PMID: 24223042 PMCID: PMC3816067 DOI: 10.1155/2013/479541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer, the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, is on the rise, and survival is worse today than 40 years ago. In order to improve the outcomes, better biomarkers that direct the choice of therapy are urgently needed. In this review, we explore the estrogen receptor as the most studied biomarker and the best predictor for response for endometrial cancer reported to date.
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10
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Chandra V, Fatima I, Saxena R, Kitchlu S, Sharma S, Hussain MK, Hajela K, Bajpai P, Dwivedi A. Apoptosis induction and inhibition of hyperplasia formation by 2-[piperidinoethoxyphenyl]-3-[4-hydroxyphenyl]-2H-benzo(b)pyran in rat uterus. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2011; 205:362.e1-11. [PMID: 21782150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2010] [Revised: 04/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study was undertaken to explore the antiproliferative mechanism of action of 2-[piperidinoethoxyphenyl]-3-[4-hydroxyphenyl]-2H-benzo(b)pyran (K-1) in estradiol-induced rat uterine hyperplasia. STUDY DESIGN Adult ovariectomized rats received vehicle or estradiol alone (20 μg/kg) or estradiol along with K-1 (100 or 200 μg/kg) for 14 days. Uterine histomorphometric analysis and immunoblotting were performed. Caspase-3 activity and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end-labeling staining were performed to analyze the apoptotic potential of compound. RESULTS Compound inhibited estradiol-induced uterine weight and histomorphometric changes pertaining to endometrial growth and down-regulated the expression of estrogen response element and activator protein-1 regulated genes and transcription factors. The compound significantly induced apoptosis, interfered with Akt activation, decreased X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein expression leading to an increased cleavage of caspase-9, caspase-3, poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase, increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and caspase-3 activity. CONCLUSION K-1 inhibits endometrial proliferation via nonclassical estrogen receptor signaling mechanisms. It interfered with Akt activation and induced apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway and inhibited estradiol-induced hyperplasia formation in rat uterus.
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11
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Yang S, Thiel KW, Leslie KK. Progesterone: the ultimate endometrial tumor suppressor. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2011; 22:145-52. [PMID: 21353793 PMCID: PMC4062362 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2011.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Revised: 01/11/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The uterine endometrium is exquisitely sensitive to steroid hormones that act through well-described nuclear receptors. Estrogen drives epithelial proliferation, and progesterone inhibits growth and causes cell differentiation. The importance of progesterone as a key inhibitor of carcinogenesis is reflected by the observation that women who ovulate and produce progesterone almost never get endometrial cancer. In this review we describe seminal research findings that define progesterone as the major endometrial tumor suppressor. We discuss the genes and diverse signaling pathways that are controlled by progesterone through progesterone receptors (PRs) and also the multiple factors that regulate progesterone/PR activity. By defining these progesterone-regulated factors and pathways we identify the principal therapeutic opportunities to control the growth of endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujie Yang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center,The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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12
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Rossi M, Colecchia D, Iavarone C, Strambi A, Piccioni F, Verrotti di Pianella A, Chiariello M. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 8 (ERK8) controls estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα) cellular localization and inhibits its transcriptional activity. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:8507-8522. [PMID: 21190936 PMCID: PMC3048734 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.179523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2010] [Revised: 12/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
ERK8 (MAPK15) is a large MAP kinase already implicated in the regulation of the functions of different nuclear receptors and in cellular proliferation and transformation. Here, we identify ERRα as a novel ERK8-interacting protein. As a consequence of such interaction, ERK8 induces CRM1-dependent translocation of ERRα to the cytoplasm and inhibits its transcriptional activity. Also, we identify in ERK8 two LXXLL motifs, typical of agonist-bound nuclear receptor corepressors, as necessary features for this MAP kinase to interact with ERRα and to regulate its cellular localization and transcriptional activity. Ultimately, we demonstrate that ERK8 is able to counteract, in immortalized human mammary cells, ERRα activation induced by the EGF receptor pathway, often deregulated in breast cancer. Altogether, these results reveal a novel function for ERK8 as a bona fide ERRα corepressor, involved in control of its cellular localization by nuclear exclusion, and suggest a key role for this MAP kinase in the regulation of the biological activities of this nuclear receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Rossi
- From the Istituto Toscano Tumori-Core Research Laboratory, Signal Transduction Unit, Siena,; the Università degli Studi di Siena, and
| | - David Colecchia
- From the Istituto Toscano Tumori-Core Research Laboratory, Signal Transduction Unit, Siena,; the Università degli Studi di Siena, and
| | - Carlo Iavarone
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale, CNR, Napoli
| | - Angela Strambi
- From the Istituto Toscano Tumori-Core Research Laboratory, Signal Transduction Unit, Siena
| | | | - Arturo Verrotti di Pianella
- the CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Napoli,; the Dipartimento di Biochimica e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli, Napoli, and
| | - Mario Chiariello
- From the Istituto Toscano Tumori-Core Research Laboratory, Signal Transduction Unit, Siena,; Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale, CNR, Napoli,; the Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, Sede di Siena, CNR, Siena, Italy.
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Tong W, Niklaus A, Zhu L, Pan H, Chen B, Aubuchon M, Santoro N, Pollard JW. Estrogen and progesterone regulation of cell proliferation in the endometrium of muridae and humans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.3109/9780203091500.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
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14
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Radi ZA, Marusak RA, Morris DL. Species Comparison of the Role of p38 MAP Kinase in the Female Reproductive System. J Toxicol Pathol 2009; 22:109-24. [PMID: 22271984 PMCID: PMC3246056 DOI: 10.1293/tox.22.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2009] [Accepted: 04/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are members of discrete signal
transduction pathways that have significant regulatory roles in a variety of biological
processes, depending on the cell, tissue and organ type. p38 MAPKs are involved in
inflammation, cell growth and differentiation and cell cycle. In the female reproductive
system, p38 MAPKs are known to regulate various aspects of the reproductive process such
as mammalian estrous and menstrual cycles as well as early pregnancy and parturition. p38
MAPKs have also been implicated in alterations and pathologies observed in the female
reproductive system. Therefore, pharmacologic modulation of p38 MAPKs, and inter-connected
signaling pathways (e.g., estrogen receptor signaling, c-fos, c-jun), may influence
reproductive physiology and function. This article provides a critical, comparative review
of available data on the roles of p38 MAPKs in the mammalian female reproductive system
and in reproductive pathophysiology in humans and preclinical species. We first introduce
fundamental differences and similarities of the mammalian female reproductive system that
should be considered by toxicologists and toxicologic pathologists when assessing the
effects of new pharmacologic agents on the female reproductive system. We then explore in
detail the known roles for p38 MAPKs and related molecules in female reproduction. This
foundation is then extended to pathological conditions in which p38 MAPKs are thought to
play an integral role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaher A. Radi
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Global
R&D, 700 Chesterfield Parkway West, St. Louis, MO 63017, USA
| | | | - Dale L. Morris
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Global
R&D, 700 Chesterfield Parkway West, St. Louis, MO 63017, USA
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15
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Wang C, Yu J, Kallen CB. Two estrogen response element sequences near the PCNA gene are not responsible for its estrogen-enhanced expression in MCF7 cells. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3523. [PMID: 18949048 PMCID: PMC2568806 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is an essential component of DNA replication, cell cycle regulation, and epigenetic inheritance. High expression of PCNA is associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. The 5′-region of the PCNA gene contains two computationally-detected estrogen response element (ERE) sequences, one of which is evolutionarily conserved. Both of these sequences are of undocumented cis-regulatory function. We recently demonstrated that estradiol (E2) enhances PCNA mRNA expression in MCF7 breast cancer cells. MCF7 cells proliferate in response to E2. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we demonstrate that E2 rapidly enhanced PCNA mRNA and protein expression in a process that requires ERα as well as de novo protein synthesis. One of the two upstream ERE sequences was specifically bound by ERα-containing protein complexes, in vitro, in gel shift analysis. Yet, each ERE sequence, when cloned as a single copy, or when engineered as two tandem copies of the ERE-containing sequence, was not capable of activating a luciferase reporter construct in response to E2. In MCF7 cells, neither ERE-containing genomic region demonstrated E2-dependent recruitment of ERα by sensitive ChIP-PCR assays. Conclusion/Significance We conclude that E2 enhances PCNA gene expression by an indirect process and that computational detection of EREs, even when evolutionarily conserved and when near E2-responsive genes, requires biochemical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Caleb B. Kallen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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16
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Newbold RR, Jefferson WN, Grissom SF, Padilla-Banks E, Snyder RJ, Lobenhofer EK. Developmental exposure to diethylstilbestrol alters uterine gene expression that may be associated with uterine neoplasia later in life. Mol Carcinog 2007; 46:783-96. [PMID: 17394237 PMCID: PMC2254327 DOI: 10.1002/mc.20308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we described a mouse model where the well-known reproductive carcinogen with estrogenic activity, diethylstilbestrol (DES), caused uterine adenocarcinoma following neonatal treatment. Tumor incidence was dose-dependent reaching >90% by 18 mo following neonatal treatment with 1000 microg/kg/d of DES. These tumors followed the initiation/promotion model of hormonal carcinogenesis with developmental exposure as initiator, and exposure to ovarian hormones at puberty as the promoter. To identify molecular pathways involved in DES-initiation events, uterine gene expression profiles were examined in prepubertal mice exposed to DES (1, 10, or 1000 microg/kg/d) on days 1-5 and compared to controls. Of more than 20 000 transcripts, approximately 3% were differentially expressed in at least one DES treatment group compared to controls; some transcripts demonstrated dose-responsiveness. Assessment of gene ontology annotation revealed alterations in genes associated with cell growth, differentiation, and adhesion. When expression profiles were compared to published studies of uteri from 5-d-old DES-treated mice, or adult mice treated with 17beta estradiol, similarities were seen suggesting persistent differential expression of estrogen responsive genes following developmental DES exposure. Moreover, several altered genes were identified in human uterine adenocarcinomas. Four altered genes [lactotransferrin (Ltf), transforming growth factor beta inducible (Tgfb1), cyclin D1 (Ccnd1), and secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (Sfrp4)], selected for real-time RT-PCR analysis, correlated well with the directionality of the microarray data. These data suggested altered gene expression profiles observed 2 wk after treatment ceased, were established at the time of developmental exposure and maybe related to the initiation events resulting in carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Retha R Newbold
- Developmental Endocrinology and Endocrine Disruptor Section, Laboratory of Molecular Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
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17
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Li S, Davis B. Evaluating rodent vaginal and uterine histology in toxicity studies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 80:246-52. [PMID: 17570136 DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.20120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Interpreting histopathology of the female rodent reproductive tract can be challenging in toxicity studies. However, diagnosis can be relatively uncomplicated with an understanding of the relationship between form and function. We describe this relationship for the rodent uterus and vagina and discuss some strategies to simplify diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaunfang Li
- Therapeutics Group, Neotropix Inc., Malvern, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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Srinivasan V, Spence DW, Pandi-Perumal SR, Trakht I, Esquifino AI, Cardinali DP, Maestroni GJ. Melatonin, environmental light, and breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2007; 108:339-50. [PMID: 17541739 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-007-9617-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 05/07/2007] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although many factors have been suggested as causes for breast cancer, the increased incidence of the disease seen in women working in night shifts led to the hypothesis that the suppression of melatonin by light or melatonin deficiency plays a major role in cancer development. Studies on the 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene and N-methyl-N-nitrosourea experimental models of human breast cancer indicate that melatonin is effective in reducing cancer development. In vitro studies in MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line have shown that melatonin exerts its anticarcinogenic actions through a variety of mechanisms, and that it is most effective in estrogen receptor (ER) alpha-positive breast cancer cells. Melatonin suppresses ER gene, modulates several estrogen dependent regulatory proteins and pro-oncogenes, inhibits cell proliferation, and impairs the metastatic capacity of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. The anticarcinogenic action on MCF-7 cells has been demonstrated at the physiological concentrations of melatonin attained at night, suggesting thereby that melatonin acts like an endogenous antiestrogen. Melatonin also decreases the formation of estrogens from androgens via aromatase inhibition. Circulating melatonin levels are abnormally low in ER-positive breast cancer patients thereby supporting the melatonin hypothesis for breast cancer in shift working women. It has been postulated that enhanced endogenous melatonin secretion is responsible for the beneficial effects of meditation as a form of psychosocial intervention that helps breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Srinivasan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
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19
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Ali SH, O'Donnell AL, Mohamed S, Mousa S, Dandona P. Overexpression of estrogen receptor-α in the endometrial carcinoma cell line Ishikawa: inhibition of growth and angiogenic factors. Gynecol Oncol 2004; 95:637-45. [PMID: 15581976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2004.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high level of estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-alpha) is believed to be favorable in the prognosis and treatment of endometrial, ovarian, and breast cancer. High levels of ER-alpha have been shown to inhibit the growth and invasive, metastatic potential of breast cancer cell lines. To bring about these inhibitory effects, ER-alpha probably acts through other cellular factors involved in the regulation of cell growth. OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of high levels ER-alpha in growth inhibition of endometrial cancer cells. METHODS A human ER-alpha cDNA was stably overexpressed in an endometrial cancer cell line, namely, Ishikawa. ER-alpha-overexpressing, parent, and control Ishikawa cells were grown in vitro and their growth rates were compared by cell count. ER-alpha-overexpressing and parent Ishikawa cells were also grown in vitro as tumors in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model, and tumor growth and angiogenesis was measured. Finally, levels of angiogenesis-modulating factors, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were examined in relation to ER overexpression. RESULTS The growth of Ishikawa cells was found inhibited in culture as well as in the CAM model. Angiogenesis of CAM tumors was also found inhibited in ER-overexpressing cells. Angiogenic factor VEGF was inhibited whereas the activity of NOS was found elevated following ER overexpression. CONCLUSION Our work on the Ishikawa cell line indicates that high levels of ER-alpha in endometrial cancer may inhibit cancer growth by modulating angiogenic factors, thereby limiting the blood supply to the growing tumor. Our results support the earlier data from other groups that have shown a positive correlation between high ER content and better prognosis of endometrial cancers.
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20
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Hewitt SC, Collins J, Grissom S, Deroo B, Korach KS. Global uterine genomics in vivo: microarray evaluation of the estrogen receptor alpha-growth factor cross-talk mechanism. Mol Endocrinol 2004; 19:657-68. [PMID: 15528273 DOI: 10.1210/me.2004-0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross-talk between growth factor receptors and the estrogen receptor (ER) has been proposed as a signaling mechanism in estrogen target tissues, with ER(alpha) as a direct target of growth factor receptor-activated signals, leading to regulation of estrogen target genes and estrogen-like biological responses to growth factors. We evaluated whether global genomic changes in the mouse uterus in response to epidermal growth factor or IGF-I mimic those of estradiol (E2), reflecting the cross-talk mechanism. Overlapping responses to growth factors and E2 were expected in the wild type (WT) whereas no response was expected in mice lacking ER(alpha) (ER(alpha) knockout). Surprisingly, although most of the E2 response in the WT also occurred after growth factor treatment, some genes were induced only by E2. Second, although E2 did not induce gene changes in the ER(alpha) knockout, the growth factor response was almost indistinguishable from that of the WT. Differences in response of some genes to IGF-I or epidermal growth factor indicated selective regulation mechanisms, such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase or MAPK-dependent responses. The robust ER(alpha)-independent genomic response to growth factor observed here is surprising considering that the biological growth response is ER(alpha) dependent. We propose two mechanisms as alternatives to the cross-talk mechanism for uterine gene regulation. First, E2 increases uterine growth factors, which activate downstream signaling cascades, resulting in gene regulation. Second, growth factors and estrogen regulate similar genes. Our results suggest that the estrogen response in the uterus involves E2-specific ER(alpha)-mediated responses as well as responses resulting from convergence of growth factor and ER-initiated activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Curtis Hewitt
- Receptor Biology Section, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, PO Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA.
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21
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Moggs JG, Tinwell H, Spurway T, Chang HS, Pate I, Lim FL, Moore DJ, Soames A, Stuckey R, Currie R, Zhu T, Kimber I, Ashby J, Orphanides G. Phenotypic anchoring of gene expression changes during estrogen-induced uterine growth. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2004; 112:1589-606. [PMID: 15598610 PMCID: PMC1247656 DOI: 10.1289/txg.7345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2004] [Accepted: 10/07/2004] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
A major challenge in the emerging field of toxicogenomics is to define the relationships between chemically induced changes in gene expression and alterations in conventional toxicologic parameters such as clinical chemistry and histopathology. We have explored these relationships in detail using the rodent uterotrophic assay as a model system. Gene expression levels, uterine weights, and histologic parameters were analyzed 1, 2, 4, 8, 24, 48, and 72 hr after exposure to the reference physiologic estrogen 17 beta-estradiol (E2). A multistep analysis method, involving unsupervised hierarchical clustering followed by supervised gene ontology-driven clustering, was used to define the transcriptional program associated with E2-induced uterine growth and to identify groups of genes that may drive specific histologic changes in the uterus. This revealed that uterine growth and maturation are preceded and accompanied by a complex, multistage molecular program. The program begins with the induction of genes involved in transcriptional regulation and signal transduction and is followed, sequentially, by the regulation of genes involved in protein biosynthesis, cell proliferation, and epithelial cell differentiation. Furthermore, we have identified genes with common molecular functions that may drive fluid uptake, coordinated cell division, and remodeling of luminal epithelial cells. These data define the mechanism by which an estrogen induces organ growth and tissue maturation, and demonstrate that comparison of temporal changes in gene expression and conventional toxicology end points can facilitate the phenotypic anchoring of toxicogenomic data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan G Moggs
- Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Cheshire SK10 4TJ, UK
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22
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Chen D, Xu X, Cheon YP, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Estrogen Induces Expression of Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor in Rat Uterus1. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:508-14. [PMID: 15044260 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.024919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In rodents, the steroid hormone estrogen (E) profoundly influences the early events in the uterus leading to embryo implantation. It is thought that E triggers the expression of a unique set of genes in the endometrium that in turn control implantation. To identify these E-induced genes, we employed a delayed implantation model system in which embryo attachment to rat endometrium is dependent upon E administration. Using a gene expression screen method, we isolated a number of cDNAs representing mRNAs whose expression is either turned on or turned off in response to an implantation-inducing dose of E. We identified one of these cDNAs as that encoding secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), an inhibitor of serine proteases. The expression of SLPI mRNA was induced in the uteri of ovariectomized rats in response to E, confirming the hormonal regulation of this molecule. Spatiotemporal analysis revealed a biphasic pattern of expression of SLPI mRNA during early pregnancy. A considerable amount of SLPI mRNA was detected in the uterine epithelium on Day 1 of pregnancy. The level of this mRNA, however, declined sharply on Days 2 and 3 of gestation. Interestingly, on Day 4 of gestation, there was a marked resurgence in SLPI mRNA expression in the uterine epithelium. This second burst of SLPI expression diminished by Day 6 of pregnancy. The transient induction of SLPI mRNA during Days 4 and 5 overlapped with the window of implantation in the rat. Although the precise function of SLPI in the uterus eludes us presently, its known effects as a serine protease inhibitor in other tissues and its hormone-induced expression in the rat uterus immediately preceding implantation lead us to propose that this gene plays an important role in controlling excessive proteolysis and inflammation during a critical phase of early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahu Chen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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23
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Watanabe T, Akishita M, Nakaoka T, He H, Miyahara Y, Yamashita N, Wada Y, Aburatani H, Yoshizumi M, Kozaki K, Ouchi Y. Caveolin-1, Id3a and two LIM protein genes are upregulated by estrogen in vascular smooth muscle cells. Life Sci 2004; 75:1219-29. [PMID: 15219810 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2004.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2003] [Accepted: 03/02/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen has diverse effects on the vasculature, such as vasodilation, endothelial growth and inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration. However, little is known about the genes that are regulated by estrogen in the vascular wall. Wistar rats were ovariectomized or sham-operated (Sham group), and 2 weeks after the operation, were subjected to subcutaneous implantation of placebo pellets (OVX + V group) or estradiol pellets (OVX + E group). Endothelium-denuded aortic tissue was examined 2 weeks after implantation. By applying high-density oligonucleotide microarray analysis, the expression of approximately 7000 genes was analyzed. Among the genes with different expression levels between the OVX + E group and the OVX + V group, those that have been reported to be expressed in the vasculature or muscle tissue, were chosen. Finally, four genes, caveolin-1, two LIM proteins (enigma and SmLIM) and Id3a, were identified. Microarray as well as real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that the expression levels of these genes were significantly higher in the OVX + E group than in the OVX + V group. To clarify whether estrogen directly upregulates these genes in the vascular wall, Northern blot analysis was performed using cultured rat VSMC. Addition of 100 nmol/L estradiol for 24 hours increased the mRNA levels of all four genes. Although the precise mechanism remains unclear, regulation of these genes by estrogen might contribute to its effect on VSMC.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
- Animals
- Aorta, Thoracic
- Blotting, Northern
- Carrier Proteins/genetics
- Carrier Proteins/metabolism
- Caveolin 1
- Caveolins/genetics
- Caveolins/metabolism
- Cytoskeletal Proteins
- Estradiol/pharmacology
- Female
- Inhibitor of Differentiation Proteins
- Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
- LIM Domain Proteins
- Muscle Proteins/genetics
- Muscle Proteins/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Nuclear Proteins/genetics
- Nuclear Proteins/metabolism
- Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis
- Ovariectomy
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Up-Regulation
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Affiliation(s)
- Tokumitsu Watanabe
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
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24
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Nemos C, Delage-Mourroux R, Jouvenot M, Adami P. Onset of direct 17-β estradiol effects on proliferation and c-fos expression during oncogenesis of endometrial glandular epithelial cells. Exp Cell Res 2004; 296:109-22. [PMID: 15149842 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2004.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2003] [Revised: 01/19/2004] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In normal endometrial glandular epithelial cells (GEC), 17beta-estradiol (E2) enhances proliferation and c-fos expression only in the presence of growth factors. On the contrary, growth factors are not required for the E2 effects in cancerous cells. Thus, a repression of E2 action could exist in normal cells and be turned off in cancerous cells, allowing a direct estrogen-dependent proliferation. To verify this hypothesis, we established immortalized and transformed cell models, then investigated alterations of E2 effects during oncogenesis. SV40 large T-antigen was used to generate immortalized GEC model (IGEC). After observation of telomerase reactivation, IGEC model was transfected by activated c-Ha-ras to obtain transformed cell lines (TGEC1 and TGEC2). The phenotypic, morphological, and genetic characteristics of these models were determined before studying the E2 effects. In IGEC, the E2 action on proliferation and c-fos expression required the presence of growth factors, as observed in GECs. In TGECs, this action arose in the absence of growth factors. After IGEC transformation, the activation of ras pathway would substitute the priming events required for the release of repression in GEC and IGEC and thus permit direct E2 effects. Our cell models are particularly suitable to investigate alterations of gene regulation by E2 during oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Nemos
- Laboratoire de Biochimie Biologie Moléculaire, Université de Franche-Comté, U.F.R. Sciences et Techniques, Besançon, France
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25
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Zheng H, Kangas L, Härkönen PL. Comparative study of the short-term effects of a novel selective estrogen receptor modulator, ospemifene, and raloxifene and tamoxifen on rat uterus. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2004; 88:143-56. [PMID: 15084346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2003.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2002] [Accepted: 11/26/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the differential short-term effects of selective estrogen receptor (ER) modulators (SERMs) on uterus, we treated adult ovariectomized rats with a novel SERM, ospemifene (Osp), two previously established SERMs (tamoxifen and raloxifene (Ral)) and estradiol. The expression of two estrogen-regulated early response genes c-fos and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and DNA synthesis were analysed at 1-24 h after treatment of ovariectomized rats. Induction of c-fos mRNA by each of the SERMs showed a biphasic pattern with peaks at 3 and 20 h, respectively. The maximum level of VEGF mRNA was observed at 1 h after raloxifene and 6 h after tamoxifen or ospemifene treatment. Maximum levels of the c-fos and VEGF mRNA after raloxifene treatment were higher than those seen after treatments with E2 or a corresponding dose of tamoxifen or ospemifene. DNA synthesis was significantly increased by ospemifene, tamoxifen and raloxifene both in luminal and glandular epithelium. The stimulation was transient, peaking at 16 h. In comparison, the maximum level observed at 16 h after E2 treatment sustained at least until 24 h. DNA synthesis in stromal cells was increased by the SERMs but not by E2 at 24 h. When treated together with E2, the SERMs were able to antagonise E2-stimulated DNA synthesis at 16 h. Our results demonstrate that the initial response of uterus to ospemifene, raloxifene and tamoxifen includes activation of early response genes and even transient stimulation of DNA synthesis in spite of their different long-term effects. However, the early stimulatory events may be mediated by different mechanisms leading to diverging pathways in various tissue compartments and development of differential SERM-specific long-term responses of uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Zheng
- Medicity Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520 Turku, Finland
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26
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Tagami K, Niwa K, Lian Z, Gao J, Mori H, Tamaya T. Preventive Effect of Juzen-taiho-to on Endometrial Carcinogenesis in Mice Is Based on Shimotsu-to Constituent. Biol Pharm Bull 2004; 27:156-61. [PMID: 14758024 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.27.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Juzen-taiho-to, a Kampo formula, originally consists of a mixture of Shimotsu-to and Shikunshi-to formulas together with two other crude ingredients. Juzen-taiho-to is reported to have a preventive effect on endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. Shimotsu-to exerts an inhibitory effect on estrogen-induced expression of c-fos, interleukin (IL)-1alpha and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in uteri of ovarectomized mice. In the present study, short- and long-term experiments were designed to determine the effects of Juzen-taiho-to and Shimotsu-to on the estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mouse uteri, associated with the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2. In the short-term experiment, exposure to Juzen-taiho-to or Shimotsu-to significantly reduced estradiol-17beta (E(2))-stimulated expressions of COX-2 mRNA (p<0.05) as well as the protein. However, no effects on the expression of COX-1 were observed. Shikunshi-to did not affect COX expression. In the long-term experiment, 90 female ICR mice were given N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) into their uterine corpora. The animals were divided into four groups as follows: group 1, a diet containing 0.07% Shimotsu-to and 5 ppm E(2); group 2, a diet containing 5 ppm E(2); group 3, a diet containing 0.07% Shimotsu-to; group 4 served as a control. Exposure of Shimotsu-to reduced the incidence of MNU- and E(2)-induced endometrial adenocarcinoma and atypical hyperplasia at the termination of the experiment (30 weeks). The above findings and our previous reports suggest that Shimotsu-to is responsible for the preventive effects of Juzen-taiho-to on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice, through the inhibition of estrogen-related COX-2 as well as c-fos, IL-1alpha and TNF-alpha expressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Tagami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gifu University School of Medicine, 40 Tsukasa-machi, Gifu 500-8705, Japan
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27
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Watanabe T, Kashida Y, Ueda M, Onodera H, Takizawa T, Hirose M, Mitsumori K. Inhibition by ethinylestradiol of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-initiated uterine carcinogenesis in transgenic mice carrying a human prototype C-Ha-ras gene (rasH2 mice). Toxicol Pathol 2003; 31:496-505. [PMID: 14692618 DOI: 10.1080/01926230390226014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In order to demonstrate the tumor promoting effect of ethinylestradiol (EE) in our uterine carcinogenesis model, rasH2 or ICR mice given an intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg body weight of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) or an intra-uterine injection of 50 mg/kg body weight of ENU, respectively, followed by 2.5 or 0 ppm EE in the diet for 24 weeks in experiment 1 and 6 weeks in experiment 2. In experiment 1, in ICR mice, the incidences of adenocarcinomas in the ENU alone and the ENU+EE groups were 0% and 37.5%, respectively, the difference being statistically significant. The incidences of atypical hyperplasias and endometrial hyperplasias in the ENU+EE group were also significantly higher than those in the ENU alone group. In rasH2 mice, on the other hand, no endometrial proliferative lesions were induced in the uterus of the ENU+EE group, although uterine adenocarcinomas (55.6%), atypical hyperplasias (33.3%), and endometrial hyperplasias (22.2%) were observed in the ENU alone group. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive indices for uterine adenocarcinomas and atypical hyperplasias in ICR mice treated with ENU+EE showed high values, but those in rasH2 mice given ENU alone were comparable to data for intact epithelium. In experiment 2, the immunohistochemical expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ER alpha) in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium in the ENU+EE group of ICR mice was moderate to marked, but that in the ENU alone group was slight. There was no consistent difference in ER alpha expression in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium between ENU+EE and ENU alone groups of rasH2 mice. These results suggest that 2.5 ppm EE paradoxically inhibits the uterine carcinogenesis in rasH2 mice initiated with ENU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Watanabe
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8, Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
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Mendoza-Rodríguez CA, Merchant-Larios H, Segura-Valdez ML, Moreno-Mendoza N, Cruz ME, Arteaga-López P, Camacho-Arroyo I, Domínguez R, Cerbón M. c-fos and estrogen receptor gene expression pattern in the rat uterine epithelium during the estrous cycle. Mol Reprod Dev 2003; 64:379-88. [PMID: 12589649 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Different studies in ovariectomized estrogen treated animals support the idea that c-fos plays a role in the proliferation of uterine epithelial cells. However, these studies invite us to reassess the role played by c-fos in epithelial cell types of the endometrium during the estrous cycle. The present study was undertaken to determine the c-fos and estrogen receptor (ER) gene expression pattern in the rat uterine epithelium during the estrous cycle in which natural and cyclic changes of steroid hormones occur, and correlate these changes with the proliferation status of this cellular types. Proliferation was assessed during the estrous cycle using bromodeoxyuridine incorporation to DNA. ERalpha and beta proteins were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The regulation of c-fos gene expression in the uterus of intact animals during the estrous cycle was evaluated using both in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Estradiol (E(2)) and progesterone (P(4)) plasma levels were assessed by radioimmunoassay. The results indicated that luminal (LE) and glandular epithelia (GE) presented maximal proliferation during the metestrus (M) and the diestrus (D) days. However, during the proestrus (P) day only LE presented proliferation, and during the estrus (E) day only the stromal cells proliferated. A marked immunostaining for ERalpha was detected in both LE and GE cells during the early phases of the cycle but diminished on the P and the E day. In contrast, ERbeta was undetectable in both epithelia during all stages of the cycle. The highest c-fos mRNA level was detected in both epithelia on the M day, followed by a significant reduction during the other days of the cycle. The highest protein content was observed on the M and D days, and the minimal value was detected on the E day. The c-Fos protein level in LE was increased during M and D days, presenting a high correlation with the cellular proliferation pattern of this cell type. In conclusion, the overall results indicate that c-Fos protein presented a good correlation with uterine epithelial cell proliferation of LE. In the case of GE, the same tendency was observed, although no significant correlation was found. Both in LE and GE, c-fos mRNA did not strictly correlate with its protein levels. c-fos seems to have a postranscriptional regulation in uterine epithelial cells during the rat's estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Adriana Mendoza-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacan 04510, México, D.F., México
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Cobellis G, Meccariello R, Minucci S, Palmiero C, Pierantoni R, Fasano S. Cytoplasmic versus nuclear localization of Fos-related proteins in the frog, Rana esculenta, testis: in vivo and direct in vitro effect of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:954-60. [PMID: 12604648 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.008938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence has been accumulated indicating that GnRH-like peptides are present in a variety of extrabrain areas of mammalian and nonmammalian vertebrates. A pioneer study carried out in the frog, Rana esculenta, demonstrated that testicular GnRH induced spermatogonial proliferation. Recently, we have shown that in proliferating spermatogonia (SPG) of frogs, a change of localization of the oncoprotein Fos, from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, occurs. This leads to the hypothesis that one or more testicular GnRH peptides may regulate SPG proliferation through Fos family proteins. Therefore, in vivo experiments in intact R. esculenta and in vitro incubations of testis fragments have been carried out using GnRH agonist (GnRHa; buserelin) and GnRH antagonist (D-pGlu(1),D-Phe(2),D-Trp(3,6)-GnRH). Cytoplasmic and nuclear Fos-like protein localization has been found by Western blot analysis in testicular extracts. Immunocytochemistry confirmed that cytoplasmic immunostaining was restricted to SPG; change of localization into the nuclear compartment was observed after GnRHa treatment. Northern blot analysis showed that treatments of testis fragments with GnRHa did not modify testicular c-fos mRNA expression. On the contrary, a Fos-like protein of 52 kDa, while not affected in vivo, disappeared from testicular cytosolic extracts after in vitro treatment with GnRHa. Contemporaneously, a 55-kDa Fos-related signal appeared in nuclear extracts. The GnRH antagonist counteracted the effects of GnRHa. Furthermore, in vivo treatments showed that GnRHa acted negatively on a 43-kDa nuclear Fos-related signal and that gonadotropins caused the decrease of 52-kDa cytoplasmic signal. In conclusion, we show, to our knowledge for the first time, that Fos is regulated by GnRHa directly (not through the pituitary) at the testicular level. The main effect appears to be related to Fos translocation from cytoplasmic to nuclear compartments of SPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez. "F. Bottazzi," 80138 Napoli, Italy
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Noguchi S, Nakatsuka M, Asagiri K, Habara T, Takata M, Konishi H, Kudo T. Bisphenol A stimulates NO synthesis through a non-genomic estrogen receptor-mediated mechanism in mouse endothelial cells. Toxicol Lett 2002; 135:95-101. [PMID: 12243868 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4274(02)00252-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Biological actions of bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental chemical, have not been fully elucidated. We studied effect of BPA on nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in the murine endothelial cell line, MSS31. BPA (1-100 microM) increased nitrite/nitrate, a stable metabolites of NO, levels in culture medium of MSS31. However, Western blotting showed that the level of endothelial NO synthase protein was not increased by 16 h of treatment with BPA (10 microM). ICI 182,780 (10 microM), an estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist, suppressed BPA-induced NO synthesis while actinomycin D (1 microg/ml), a transcription inhibitor, or cycloheximide (40 microM), a protein synthesis inhibitor, exhibited no effect on BPA-induced NO synthesis. These results indicate that BPA stimulates NO synthesis through a non-genomic ER-mediated mechanism. Short-term effects of BPA on NO synthesis were weak but similar to 17beta-estradiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soichi Noguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Okayama University Medical School, 2-5-1 Shikata, Okayama 700-8558, Okayama-City, Japan
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31
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Katsu Y, Takasu E, Iguchi T. Estrogen-independent expression of neuropsin, a serine protease in the vagina of mice exposed neonatally to diethylstilbestrol. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2002; 195:99-107. [PMID: 12354676 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(02)00184-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal treatment of female mice with natural or synthetic estrogens including diethylstilbestrol (DES) results in estrogen-independent persistent proliferation and cornification of the vaginal epithelium. However, the molecular mechanisms of the estrogen-independent changes have not been elucidated. To analyze the mechanism of estrogen-independent cell proliferation and cornification of the vaginal epithelium, we used differential display and determined specific genes expressed in neonatally DES-treated vagina. A candidate clone that designated DDV5 was identical to the serine protease, neuropsin that is reportedly expressed in the mouse central nervous system. We then analyzed the expression pattern of DDV5/neuropsin using Northern blot analysis. We found: (1). DDV5/neuropsin mRNA is expressed in vaginae from neonatally DES-treated ovariectomized mice but not in vaginae from ovariectomized control mice, (2). its expression is not detected in uteri from neonatally DES-treated mice, (3). DDV5/neuropsin is expressed in vaginae from normal intact mice during estrus. Furthermore, we found that DDV5/neuropsin mRNA rapidly decreased in vaginae after ovariectomy. DDV5/neuropsin was detected in vaginae from ovariectomized mice 48 h after estrogen treatment. These results suggest that DDV5/neuropsin is expressed in estrogen-stimulated mouse vagina, and its gene expression is regulated by estrogen. Neonatal DES exposure affects transcriptional control of DDV5/neuropsin in the mouse vagina, which results in persistent expression of DDV5/neuropsin even after ovariectomy, thus, DDV5/neuropsin may play a role in estrogen-independent persistent proliferation and cornification of the vaginal epithelium. Using in situ hybridization method, we found DDV5/neuropsin mRNA localized in epithelial cells but not stromal cells in vaginae. This is the first report on the gene expression of a serine-protease neuropsin in the mouse vagina, and as a marker of the estrogen-independent persistent proliferation and cornification of the vaginal epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinao Katsu
- Center for Integrative Bioscience, Okazaki National Research Institutes, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
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Lian Z, Niwa K, Gao J, Tagami K, Hashimoto M, Yokoyama Y, Mori H, Tamaya T. Shimotsu-to is the agent in Juzen-taiho-to responsible for the prevention of endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. Cancer Lett 2002; 182:19-26. [PMID: 12175519 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3835(02)00059-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We have found that Juzen-taiho-to has a preventive effect on endometrial carcinogenesis in mice (Carcinogenesis 22 (2001) 587). In the present study, the constituents of Juzen-taiho-to responsible for this effect were explored using a short-term experiment. Thirty female ICR mice were divided into five groups: Group 1 was given a diet containing 0.2% of Juzen-taiho-to and 5ppm estradiol-17beta (E(2)); Group 2 was given a diet containing Shimotsu-to (0.07%) and E(2) (5ppm); Group 3 received Shikunshi-to (0.08%) and E(2) (5ppm) in the diet; Group 4 was given 5ppm E(2) in the diet; and Group 5 served as a control. Exposure of Juzen-taiho-to or Shimotsu-to decreased E(2)-stimulated expression of estrogen-related gene c-fos mRNA (P<0.05), and the cytokines interleukin-1alpha mRNA and tumor necrosis factor alpha mRNA P<0.01). A similar trend was not found upon treatment with Shikunshi-to. These findings suggest that Shimotsu-to is responsible for the inhibitory effects of Juzen-taiho-to on the estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenglin Lian
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Gifu University School of Medicine, 40 Tsukasa-machi, Gifu-city 500-8705, Japan
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Niwa K, Hashimoto M, Lian Z, Gao J, Tagami K, Yokoyama Y, Mori H, Tamaya T. Inhibitory effects of toremifene on N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and estradiol-17beta-induced endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. Jpn J Cancer Res 2002; 93:626-35. [PMID: 12079510 PMCID: PMC5927046 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2002.tb01300.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Short- and long-term experiments were designed to determine the effects of toremifene (TOR) on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. In the short-term experiment, a single low dose of TOR (0.2 mg / 30 g body weight) decreased expression of c-fos, interleukin (IL)-1alpha, estrogen receptor (ER)-alpha mRNAs and corresponding proteins induced by estradiol-17beta (E(2)), in the uteri of the ovariectomized mice. Expression of ER-beta mRNA was increased by the TOR treatment, compared with the control. In the long-term experiment, 106 female ICR mice were given N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) into their uterine corpora. The animals were divided into four groups as follows: group 1, E(2) diet (5 ppm) plus TOR (0.2 mg / 30 g body weight, subcutaneously, every four weeks); group 2, E(2) diet alone; group 3, basal diet plus TOR. Group 4 served as the control. TOR treatment decreased the incidence of MNU and E(2)-induced endometrial adenocarcinoma and atypical hyperplasia at the termination of the experiment (30 weeks after the start). These results suggest that TOR exerts preventive effects against estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice, through the suppression of c-fos as well as IL-1alpha expression induced by E(2). Such suppressive effects of TOR may be related to the decreased ER-alpha and increased ER-beta expressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Niwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gifu University School of Medicine, Gifu 500-8705.
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34
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Kanda N, Watanabe S. 17beta-estradiol enhances vascular endothelial growth factor production and dihydrotestosterone antagonizes the enhancement via the regulation of adenylate cyclase in differentiated THP-1 cells. J Invest Dermatol 2002; 118:519-29. [PMID: 11874493 DOI: 10.1046/j.0022-202x.2002.01672.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We studied the in vitro effects of sex hormones on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production in differentiated THP-1 monocytic cells. Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate differentiated THP-1 into macrophage-like cells. 17beta-estradiol (10 (-9) M) increased VEGF secretion of controls 3.1-fold in differentiated THP-1 and this effect of 17beta-estradiol was antagonized by dihydrotestosterone, although dihydrotestosterone alone did not alter VEGF secretion. 17beta-estradiol increased steady-state mRNA level of VEGF and the increase was counteracted by dihydrotestosterone in differentiated THP-1, although dihydrotestosterone alone did not alter the VEGF mRNA level. Progesterone did not affect the constitutive and 17beta-estradiol-induced VEGF secretion and mRNA level. Transient transfection revealed that 17beta-estradiol enhanced chloramphenicol acetyl transferase expression driven by VEGF promoter and the enhancement was antagonized by dihydrotestosterone. Adenylate cyclase inhibitor suppressed 17beta-estradiol-induced enhancement of VEGF secretion, mRNA level, and promoter activity, whereas dihydrotestosterone-induced suppression on the effects of 17beta-estradiol was counteracted by 3',5'-adenosine cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) analog. 17beta-estradiol increased intracellular cAMP level by activating adenylate cyclase, while dihydrotestosterone reduced the basal and 17beta-estradiol-increased cAMP level by inhibiting adenylate cyclase. Transfection with 5'-deleted VEGF promoters demonstrated that the region between -88 and -66 bp may be involved in the transcriptional regulation by each hormone. The mutation within activator protein-2 element in this region abrogated the transcriptional stimulation and repression by the respective hormones. 17beta-estradiol activated transcription from activator protein-2-responsive reporter plasmid while dihydrotestosterone antagonized the effect of 17beta-estradiol. These results suggest that 17beta-estradiol enhances VEGF production while dihydrotestosterone antagonizes the effect of 17beta-estradiol via up- or downregulation of adenylate cyclase in differentiated THP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kanda
- Department of Dermatology, Teikyo University, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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35
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Arao Y, Kikuchi A, Ikeda K, Nomoto S, Horiguchi H, Kayama F. A+U-rich-element RNA-binding factor 1/heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D gene expression is regulated by oestrogen in the rat uterus. Biochem J 2002; 361:125-32. [PMID: 11742537 PMCID: PMC1222287 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3610125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogen-mediated gene expression is regulated at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. The molecular mechanism of transcriptional regulation has been well characterized. On the other hand, there is little understanding of the mechanism of post-transcriptional regulation. To clarify the mechanism of oestrogen-mediated post-transcriptional regulation, we focused on A+U-rich-element RNA-binding factor 1/heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (AUF1/hnRNP D), which is known as a regulator of cytosolic mRNA degradation and nuclear pre-mRNA maturation. However, little is known about the expression levels and the regulation of AUF1/hnRNP D mRNA in tissues. We further investigated the expression levels of AUF1/hnRNP D isoform mRNAs to determine whether AUF1/hnRNP D gene expression is regulated by oestrogen in the ovariectomized adult female rat uterus. Uterine AUF1/hnRNP D mRNA was induced by a single subcutaneous injection (1 microg/kg) of 17beta-oestradiol (E2), reaching a peak level within 6 h. Furthermore, we observed that the E2-induced AUF1/hnRNP D isoform mRNAs are p45 and p40 transcripts, and that E2-mediated induction is suppressed by the oestrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780. Finally, using the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin D, we confirmed that the E2-mediated increase in AUF1/hnRNP D mRNA is caused by E2-dependent AUF1/hnRNP D mRNA stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukitomo Arao
- Department of Health Science, Jichi Medical School, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Minamikawachi-machi, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan.
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36
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Augmented serum prolactin (PRL) levels have been implicated as a cause for infertility in patients with endometriosis. However, it has not been established whether this lactogenic hormone or its receptor (PRLR) have specific effects on the development of human endometriosis. In the present study we assessed PRLR expression in human endometriotic and normal tissue. METHODS Fourteen patients with laparoscopically proven endometriosis were recruited and the negative or positive expression of the PRLR in normal endometrial and endometriotic tissues obtained during the mid-late proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle was evaluated by RT-PCR. Evaluation of serum prolactin, and peritoneal fluid estradiol content were carried out by specific radioimmunoassays (RIA). RESULTS In endometriotic tissue samples the corresponding 1048 bp PRLR transcript was negative in 12/14 of the samples (86%) and positive in two samples (14%). The opposite was seen in normal tissue, since PRLR expression was positive in 11/14 samples (79%) and negative in the remaining three samples (21%). There was an association between serum prolactin concentrations and PRLR expression in normal tissue but not in endometriotic tissue. CONCLUSIONS The PRLR is expressed in normal endometrium, while cells of the endometriotic tissues did not express the PRLR, at least during the mid-late proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. The absence of the PRLR in the endometriotic tissues could not be correlated with the serum prolactin levels. These results suggest the existence of differential regulation of PRLR expression between normal and endometriotic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Bermejo Martinez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Montes Urales 800, Col Lomas de Virreyes, Mexico D.F., CP 11000.
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37
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Mori H, Niwa K, Zheng Q, Yamada Y, Sakata K, Yoshimi N. Cell proliferation in cancer prevention; effects of preventive agents on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis model and on an in vitro model in human colorectal cells. Mutat Res 2001; 480-481:201-7. [PMID: 11506814 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-5107(01)00200-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Proto-oncogenes such as c-fos, c-jun and c-myc are known to relate to cell proliferation and differentiation. Some oriental herbal medicines like Glycyrrhizae radix or Juzen-taiho-to were found to suppress estradiol-17 beta (E2)-induced expression of c-fos/jun in uterine corpus and inhibited N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and E2-induced endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. It is suggested that the effects of such oriental drugs are exerted probably through suppression of estrogen-induced c-fos/jun expression and they are promising preventing agents for endometrial cancers. In the combined in vitro assay for cell proliferation (MTS assay) and apoptosis (DNA fragmentation) in human colorectal cancer cells (Colo 320), a number of naturally occurring chemopreventive agents such as curcumin, quercetin, auraptene, 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA) and indole-3-carbinol were shown to generate apoptosis as well as to inhibit cell proliferation. The results suggest a mode of action of these chemopreventive agents and also imply that such in vitro short term assay is useful for detection of new agents for cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Mori
- Department of Pathology, Gifu University School of Medicine, 40 Tsukasa-machi, Gifu 500-8705, Japan.
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38
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Tsuchiya F, Ikeda K, Tsutsumi O, Hiroi H, Momoeda M, Taketani Y, Muramatsu M, Inoue S. Molecular cloning and characterization of mouse EBAG9, homolog of a human cancer associated surface antigen: expression and regulation by estrogen. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2001; 284:2-10. [PMID: 11374862 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.2001.4892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We previously identified a human estrogen-responsive gene, EBAG9 (ER-binding fragment-associated antigen9) (Watanabe, T. et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 18, 442-449, 1998). It was later reported as RCAS1 (receptor-binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells) that induced apoptosis and suppressed the growth of several cells such as activated T cells (Nakashima, M. et al., Nat. Med. 5, 938-942, 1999). Here, we have isolated both cDNA and genomic DNA of mouse EBAG9/RCAS1. Mouse EBAG9 gene spans about 30 kb in genomic DNA and consists of 7 exons. Mouse EBAG9 cDNA encodes a protein that contains the transmenbrane segment and coiled-coil domain. An alignment between the predicted mouse and human EBAG9 shows a high degree of homology at the amino acid level (98%). Northern and Western blot analyses demonstrate that EBAG9 is expressed in several tissues including the heart, brain, spleen, liver, kidney, and testis, and also in developing embryo. In the uterus, a target organ for estrogen, the EBAG9 was shown to be upregulated in vivo by 17beta-estradiol. To determine the biological action of mouse EBAG9, NIH3T3 fibroblastic cells were incubated with recombinant EBAG9 protein, resulting in suppression of cell growth. These findings suggest that EBAG9 is an in vivo estrogen-responsive gene that inhibits the cell growth.
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MESH Headings
- 3T3 Cells
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/genetics
- Antigens, Neoplasm/metabolism
- Antigens, Neoplasm/pharmacology
- Antigens, Surface/genetics
- Antigens, Surface/metabolism
- Antigens, Surface/pharmacology
- Base Sequence
- Cell Division/drug effects
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- DNA, Complementary/isolation & purification
- Estrogens/pharmacology
- Exons
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization
- Introns
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred ICR
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Organ Specificity
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
- Transfection
- Uterus/cytology
- Uterus/drug effects
- Uterus/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- F Tsuchiya
- Department of Biochemistry, Saitama Medical School, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
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39
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Lian Z, Niwa K, Tagami K, Hashimoto M, Gao J, Yokoyama Y, Mori H, Tamaya T. Preventive effects of isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, on estradiol-17beta-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. Jpn J Cancer Res 2001; 92:726-34. [PMID: 11473722 PMCID: PMC5926776 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2001.tb01154.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) on endometrial carcinogenesis in mice were investigated in two experiments. In the short-term experiment (2 weeks), single subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of genistein [1 mg / 30 g body weight (b.w.)] significantly decreased the levels of estradiol-17beta (E(2)) (5 ppm in diet)-induced expression of c-jun, interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) mRNAs in the uteri of ovariectomized mice (P < 0.005, P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). Daidzein significantly inhibited E(2)-induced expression of c-fos and IL-1alpha (P < 0.01, P < 0.01 respectively). In the long-term experiment (30 weeks), 140 female ICR mice were given N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-containing solution (1 mg / 100 g b.w.) and normal saline (as controls) into their left and right uterine corpora, respectively. They were divided into six groups; group 1 was given E(2) (in diet) alone. Group 2 was given E(2) and genistein (1 mg / 30 g b.w., s.c., every four weeks). Group 3 was exposed to E(2) and daidzein (1 mg / 30 g b.w., s.c., every four weeks). Groups 4 and 5 respectively received genistein and daidzein, and were kept on the basal diet. Group 6 was kept on the basal diet and served as a control. At the termination of the experiment, incidences of endometrial adenocarcinoma and atypical endometrial hyperplasia of the group given E(2) and genistein or daidzein were significantly lower than of the group with E(2) alone (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). It is suggested that both genistein and daidzein have an inhibitory effect on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice, possibly by suppressing expression of estrogen-induced estrogen-related genes c-fos and c-jun, and internal cytokines IL-1alpha and TNF-alpha through a cytokine and estrogen receptor-mediated pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Lian
- Department of Obstetrics, Gifu University School of Medicine, Gifu 500-8705, Japan.
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40
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Abstract
Preclinical studies has found that tibolone can display a weak estrogenic, progestational and androgenic activity. The effect produced depends mainly on the target tissue involved. Clinical data indicate that tibolone produces the hormonal effects needed to treat climacteric symptoms and to prevent long-term effects of the menopause without stimulating breast and endometrial tissues. This clinical profile would be produced by the tissue specific activity of tibolone and its main metabolites. Tibolone's tissue specific activity may be explained by the interplay of several mechanisms, such as the metabolic conversion of tibolone to compounds with different biological activity, the classical interaction with the steroid receptor and the specific local metabolism, within the target tissue. Therefore, the tissue response and thus the clinical effect produced by tibolone in a given tissue seem to depend on the predominating mechanisms and interactions present in that tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Palacios
- Institute Palacios of Woman's Health, c/ Jorge Juan 36, 28001, Madrid, Spain.
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41
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Kawashima K, Yamakawa K, Arita J. Involvement of phosphoinositide-3-kinase and p70 S6 kinase in regulation of proliferation of rat lactotrophs in culture. Endocrine 2000; 13:385-92. [PMID: 11216652 DOI: 10.1385/endo:13:3:385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2000] [Revised: 07/31/2000] [Accepted: 08/07/2000] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI-3K) and p70 S6 kinase (p70S6k) are suggested as important molecules for mediating mitogenic actions of growth factors and cytokines in a variety of cell types. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether these kinases were involved in mediation of the mitogenic actions of not only the growth factor insulin but also cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and estrogen on rat cultured lactotrophs. Treatment with wortmannin or LY294002, a PI-3K inhibitor, or rapamycin, a p70S6k inhibitor, decreased basal levels of 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-labeling indices of lactotrophs in a dose-dependent manner. These inhibitors were effective in blocking an increase in BrdU-labeling indices induced by insulin. LY294002 and rapamycin also suppressed an increase in BrdU-labeling indices induced by forskolin, an adenylate cyclase activator, or dibutyryl cAMP, a membrane-permeable cAMP analog, as well as that induced by estradiol, a physiologic extracellular activator of lactotroph proliferation. However, the dibutyryl cAMP-, but not insulin-induced proliferation, acquired a resistance to LY294002 and rapamycin by pretreatment with bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist that is able to suppress lactotroph proliferation. These results suggest that the mitogenic actions of cAMP and estradiol on rat lactotrophs are mediated by PI-3K and p70S6k, and that dopaminergic inhibition modifies the PI-3K and p70S6k dependence of the regulation of lactotroph proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kawashima
- Department of Physiology, Yamanashi Medical University, Tamaho, Japan
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Niwa K, Hashimoto M, Morishita S, Yokoyama Y, Lian Z, Tagami K, Mori H, Tamaya T. Preventive effects of danazol on endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. Cancer Lett 2000; 158:133-9. [PMID: 10960762 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3835(00)00497-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Short and long-term experiments were designed to determine effects of danazol on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice. The short-term assays showed that danazol decreased expression levels of c-fos/jun mRNA and their oncoproteins induced by estradiol-17beta (E2). For the long-term assay, 85 female ICR mice were given N-methyl-N-nitrsourea solution into their uterine corpora. The animals were divided into three groups as follows: Group 1, E2-diet (5 ppm) plus danazol (2 mg/body (s.c.), every 4 weeks); Group 2, E2-diet alone, Group 3, basal diet alone. At 30 weeks, incidences of atypical and complex endometrial hyperplasia were significantly decreased by danazol-treatment. These results suggest that danazol has preventive effects on estrogen-related endometrial carcinogenesis in mice, through the suppression of estrogen-induced c-fos/jun-expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Niwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gifu University School of Medicine, 40 Tsukasa-machi, 500-8705, Gifu, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
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Yoshida A, Newbold RR, Dixon D. Abnormal cell differentiation and p21 expression of endometrial epithelial cells following developmental exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES). Toxicol Pathol 2000; 28:237-45. [PMID: 10805141 DOI: 10.1177/019262330002800203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Gene expression relevant to abnormal cell differentiation and altered cell cycle in endometrial epithelial cells was investigated immunohistochemically in developing mouse uteri exposed neonatally to diethylstilbestrol (DES). Female CD-1 mice were given daily s.c. injections of 2 microg of DES in corn oil or were given corn oil alone (control) at 1-5 days of age and euthanatized at 5, 6, 7, 8, 15, and 22 days of age. The endometrial epithelial cells of DES-treated mice at 5-8 days of age showed enhanced staining intensity for the estrogen receptor alpha (ER alpha), whereas the stromal cells showed decreased staining reaction; the epithelial cells showed that the protein encoded by the c-fos proto-oncogene, which plays a key role in regulating diverse estrogen-related cellular differentiation patterns, was enhanced. These cells also showed increased expression of lactoferrin, a sensitive protein marker of estrogen exposure, although the staining intensity decreased after exposure ended. The stain for p21 protein, a mitotic inhibitor which suppresses cyclin-dependent kinase activity, showed frequent positively stained cells in DES-treated mice at 5-15 days of age, whereas no accumulation of p53 protein of either wild or mutant type was detected immunohistochemically in these cells. These results indicate that suppressed cell cycle activity of endometrial epithelial cells and abnormal estrogen-related differentiation at the developmental stage following neonatal DES exposure may be caused, in part, by transient altered expression of ER alpha and expression of the p21 gene, which appears to be induced by a p53-independent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Yoshida
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
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Nephew KP, Choi CM, Polek TC, McBride R, Bigsby RM, Khan SA, Husseinzadeh N. Expression of fos and jun proto-oncogenes in benign versus malignant human uterine tissue. Gynecol Oncol 2000; 76:388-96. [PMID: 10684716 DOI: 10.1006/gyno.1999.5696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate expression of fos and jun proto-oncogenes in benign human uterine tissue compared with malignant uterine tissue. METHODS Forty-two endometrial tissue specimens were obtained at the time of hysterectomy. Tissue samples from different phases of the menstrual cycle and from postmenopausal patients were stained using immunohistochemical methods to detect Fos and Jun proteins, estrogen and progesterone receptor status, and Ki67 (detects a nuclear antigen associated with proliferating cells). Tissue was examined microscopically for nuclear staining in endometrial epithelium and stroma. The endometrium was based on the patient's last menstrual period, pathologic dating, and proliferative versus nonproliferative status as determined by Ki67. Benign and malignant specimens were subjected to Northern blot analysis to evaluate levels of expression of c-fos, c-jun, and jun-B mRNA. The pattern of c-fos mRNA expression in malignant samples was further evaluated using in situ hybridization. RESULTS In proliferative, secretory, postmenopausal, and progesterone-influenced, uterine specimens immunohistochemically stained and examined, the endometrial and stromal nuclei stained for both Fos and Jun in varying intensities. However, no pattern was found in the variation of intensity according to the phase of the endometrium. Similarly, in malignant and benign endometrial tissue examined by Northern blot and in situ hybridization analyses, expression of proto-oncogene mRNAs was readily detectable, but no statistical correlation between type of tissue examined, grade of adenocarcinoma, and stage of endometrial cancer was found in this study. CONCLUSIONS In rodent models, control of uterine cell proliferation is related to change in expression of fos and jun proto-oncogenes. Our results indicate that hormonal control is likely to be different in human endometrium and probably involves genes other than the proto-oncogenes under study. Expression of Fos and Jun do not correlate with endometrial cancer stage and grade.
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Affiliation(s)
- K P Nephew
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, USA
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Nephew KP, Long X, Osborne E, Burke KA, Ahluwalia A, Bigsby RM. Effect of estradiol on estrogen receptor expression in rat uterine cell types. Biol Reprod 2000; 62:168-77. [PMID: 10611082 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod62.1.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In rodent uterus, both up- and down-regulation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels by estradiol has been demonstrated; however, it is not known which of the uterine compartments (endometrial epithelium, stroma, myometrium) respond to estradiol with autoregulation of ERalpha. The purpose of the present study was to investigate and compare the kinetics and cell type-specific effects of estradiol on uterine ERalpha expression in immature and adult rats. Ovariectomized female rats were injected s.c. with sesame oil or estradiol-17beta. Uteri were collected and analyzed for changes in ERalpha mRNA using RNase protection assays (RPA) and in situ hybridization using radiolabeled probes specific for ERalpha. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed with a polyclonal antibody specific to ERalpha. Expression of ERalpha in the uterine epithelial cells decreased at 3 and 6 h after estradiol administration to immature and adult rats, respectively. At 24 h, ERalpha mRNA levels in the immature and mature rat uterus were higher than pretreatment levels but returned to baseline by 72 h. Pretreatment with cycloheximide did not block the 3-h repressive effect of estradiol, suggesting that the estradiol-induced decrease in ERalpha mRNA occurs independent of new protein synthesis. A decrease in ERalpha mRNA and protein was also observed in uterine epithelia at 3 and 6 h after an estradiol injection to immature and adult rats, and intensity of both the in situ hybridization signal and the immunostaining in the epithelium increased at 24 and 72 h. However, the periluminal stromal cells in the adult uterus and the majority of stromal cells of the immature uterus appeared to have increased ERalpha expression. The results indicate that down-regulation of ERalpha in the epithelia and up-regulation of stromal ERalpha play a role in early events associated with estradiol-induced cell proliferation of the uterine epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
- K P Nephew
- Medical Sciences, Indiana University, School of Medicine, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA.
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Klinge CM, Bowers JL, Kulakosky PC, Kamboj KK, Swanson HI. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)/AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT) heterodimer interacts with naturally occurring estrogen response elements. Mol Cell Endocrinol 1999; 157:105-19. [PMID: 10619402 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(99)00165-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
To determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the "cross talk" between the activity of 2,3,7,8-tetra-chlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), which binds to arylhydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and estradiol (E2)-liganded estrogen receptor (ER), we first examined the initial step of estrogen action, ligand binding to ER. None of the AHR ligands tested, i.e. TCDD, benzo[a]pyrene, 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl, beta-naphthoflavone, or alpha-naphthoflavone, bound to ER alpha. We report the first examination of TCDD interaction with ER beta: TCDD did not displace E2 from ER beta. We then examined a second possible mechanism, i.e. direct inhibition of ER alpha binding to estrogen response elements (EREs) by the AHR/AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT) complex. The AHR/ARNT heterodimer did not bind either a full or half-site ERE. However, AHR/ARNT bound specifically to oligomers containing naturally occurring EREs derived from the human c-fos, pS2, and progesterone receptor (PR) gene promoters that include xenobiotic response element (XRE)-like sequences. In contrast, neither purified E2-liganded-ER from calf uterus or recombinant human ER alpha bound a consensus XRE. TCDD inhibited E2-activated reporter gene activity from a consensus ERE and from EREs in the pS2, PR, and Fos genes in transiently transfected MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. However, this inhibition was not reciprocal since E2 did not inhibit TCDD-stimulated luciferase activity from the CYP1A1 promoter in transiently transfected MCF-7 or human endometrial carcinoma HEC-1A cells. We propose that at least part of the mechanism by which the AHR/ARNT complex inhibits estrogen action is by competitively inhibiting ER alpha binding to imperfect ERE sites, adjacent to or overlapping XREs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, KY 40292, USA.
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Chen D, Xu X, Zhu LJ, Angervo M, Li Q, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Cloning and uterus/oviduct-specific expression of a novel estrogen-regulated gene (ERG1). J Biol Chem 1999; 274:32215-24. [PMID: 10542259 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.45.32215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The steroid hormone estrogen profoundly influences growth and differentiation programs in the reproductive tract of cycling and pregnant mamals. It is thought that estrogen exerts its cellular effects by regulating the expression of specific target genes. We utilized a messenger RNA differential display method to identify the genes whose expression is modulated by estrogen in the preimplantation rat uterus. Here we report the cloning of a novel gene (ERG1) that is tightly regulated by estrogen in two key reproductive tissues, the uterus and oviduct. Spatio-temporal analyses reveal that ERG1 mRNA is expressed in a highly stage-specific manner in the uterus and oviduct, and its expression is restricted to the surface epithelium of both of these tissues. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the full-length ERG1 cDNA indicates that it has an open reading frame of 1821 nuceotides encoding a putative protein of 607 amino acids with a single transmembrane domain and a short cytoplasmic tail. The extracellular part of the protein contains several distinct structural motifs. These include a zona pellucida binding domain, which is present in a number of proteins such as the zona pellucida sperm binding proteins, and uromodulin, In addition, there is a repeat of a motif called CUB domain, which exists in a number of genes involved in development and differentiation such as bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1). Although the precise function of ERG1 eludes us presently, its unique pattern of expression in the uterus and oviduct and its regulation by estrogen, a principal reproductive hormone, lead us to speculate that this novel gene plays an important role in events during the reproductive cycle and early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Chen
- Population Council and Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10021, USA
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Orimo A, Inoue S, Minowa O, Tominaga N, Tomioka Y, Sato M, Kuno J, Hiroi H, Shimizu Y, Suzuki M, Noda T, Muramatsu M. Underdeveloped uterus and reduced estrogen responsiveness in mice with disruption of the estrogen-responsive finger protein gene, which is a direct target of estrogen receptor alpha. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1999; 96:12027-32. [PMID: 10518570 PMCID: PMC18406 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.96.21.12027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological roles of estrogen-responsive finger protein (efp) in vivo were evaluated in mice carrying a loss-of-function mutation in efp by gene-targeted mutagenesis. Although efp homozygous mice were viable and fertile in both sexes, the uterus that expressed abundant estrogen receptor alpha exhibited significant underdevelopment. When the ovariectomized homozygotes were subjected to 17beta-estradiol treatment, they showed remarkably attenuated responses to estrogen, as exemplified by decreased interstitial water imbibition and retarded endometrial cell increase, at least, attributable to the lower ratio of G1 to S-phase progression in epithelial cells. These results suggest that efp is essential for the normal estrogen-induced cell proliferation and uterine swelling as one of the direct targets of estrogen receptor alpha.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Orimo
- Department of Biochemistry, Saitama Medical School, 38 Moro-Hongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0451, Japan
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Cobellis G, Pierantoni R, Minucci S, Pernas-Alonso R, Meccariello R, Fasano S. c-fos activity in Rana esculenta testis: seasonal and estradiol-induced changes. Endocrinology 1999; 140:3238-44. [PMID: 10385420 DOI: 10.1210/endo.140.7.6790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol-17beta (E2) is suspected to exert a role in the regulation of testicular activity. Using a nonmammalian vertebrate model (the frog, Rana esculenta), we have investigated whether c-fos activity is detectable in the testis during the annual sexual cycle and whether E2 exerts a regulatory role on spermatogenesis through fos activity. FOS protein is available in testicular nuclear extracts (about 60 kDa) and, surprisingly, also in cytosolic extracts (about 60, 80, and 100 kDa). Estradiol induces primary spermatogonia (ISPG) proliferation [this effect is counteracted by antiestrogens (Tamoxifen and ICI 182-780)] and FOS appearance in testicular cytosolic extracts as well as c-fos transcription. Also, this effect is counteracted by ICI 182-780. Interestingly, the number of FOS immunopositive nuclei of ISPG strongly increases after E2 treatment, whereas a great increase of immunopositivity in the cytoplasm of ISPG is observed with the contemporaneous treatment with antiestrogens. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that E2 induces ISPG multiplication in the frog, R. esculenta, and, for the first time in a vertebrate species, that it triggers c-fos activity in the testis. Moreover, E2 may be involved in mechanisms related to FOS transport in the nucleus of ISPG to induce the mitotic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate F.Bottazzi, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, II Università di Napoli, Italia
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