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LA Padula D, Zavaglia L, Hamad T, Nocito MC, Aquila S, Avena P, Rago V. Leptin effects: focusing on the relationship between obesity and male infertility. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2024; 49:100-110. [PMID: 36251021 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.22.03901-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The human male infertility has several causes interconnected to improper lifestyles such as smoking, sedentarism, environmental factors, toxins accumulation and energy imbalances. All these factors contribute to the obesity accompanied metabolic syndrome and hormonal alterations in the leptin-ghrelin axis. The leptin (Lep) has many pleiotropic effects in several biological systems, directly on the peripheral tissues or through the central nervous system. Many studies suggest that Lep is a key player in gonadal functions beside its documented role in reproductive regulation; however, further investigations are still necessary to elucidate all the molecular pathways involved in these mechanisms. Keeping into account that increased Lep levels in obese men are positively correlated with altered sperm parameters and testicular oxidative stress, evidence refers to Lep as a potential link between obesity and male infertility. This review represents an updated version on the concept of the Lep roles in mediating the male reproductive functions in obese patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide LA Padula
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Lucia Zavaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Tarig Hamad
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Marta C Nocito
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Saveria Aquila
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Paola Avena
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy -
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George BT, Jhancy M, Dube R, Kar SS, Annamma LM. The Molecular Basis of Male Infertility in Obesity: A Literature Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:179. [PMID: 38203349 PMCID: PMC10779000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The rising incidence of obesity has coincided with rising levels of poor reproductive outcomes. The molecular basis for the association of infertility in obese males is now being explained through various mechanisms. Insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and changes in serum and gonadal concentrations of adipokines, like leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and ghrelin have been implicated as causes of male infertility in obese males. The effects of obesity and hypogonadism form a vicious cycle whereby dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis-due to the effect of the release of multiple mediators, thus decreasing GnRH release from the hypothalamus-causes decreases in LH and FSH levels. This leads to lower levels of testosterone, which further increases adiposity because of increased lipogenesis. Cytokines such as TNF-α and interleukins, sirtuins, and other inflammatory mediators like reactive oxygen species are known to affect fertility in obese male adults. There is evidence that parental obesity can be transferred through subsequent generations to offspring through epigenetic marks. Thus, negative expressions like obesity and infertility have been linked to epigenetic marks being altered in previous generations. The interesting aspect is that these epigenetic expressions can be reverted by removing the triggering factors. These positive modifications are also transmitted to subsequent generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biji Thomas George
- Department of Surgery, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAKMHSU, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates
| | - Malay Jhancy
- Department of Pediatrics, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAKMHSU, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates; (M.J.); (S.S.K.)
| | - Rajani Dube
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAKMHSU, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Subhranshu Sekhar Kar
- Department of Pediatrics, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAKMHSU, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates; (M.J.); (S.S.K.)
| | - Lovely Muthiah Annamma
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
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Differential Response of Transcription Factors to Activated Kinases in Steroidogenic and Non-Steroidogenic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113153. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormone-induced Leydig cell steroidogenesis requires rapid changes in gene expression in response to various hormones, cytokines, and growth factors. These proteins act by binding to their receptors on the surface of Leydig cells leading to activation of multiple intracellular signaling cascades, downstream of which are several kinases, including protein kinase A (PKA), Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase I (CAMKI), and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). These kinases participate in hormone-induced steroidogenesis by phosphorylating numerous proteins including transcription factors leading to increased steroidogenic gene expression. How these various kinases and transcription factors come together to appropriately induce steroidogenic gene expression in response to specific stimuli remains poorly understood. In the present work, we compared the effect of PKA, CAMKI and ERK1/2 on the transactivation potential of 15 transcription factors belonging to 5 distinct families on the activity of the Star gene promoter. We not only validated known cooperation between kinases and transcription factors, but we also identified novel cooperations that have not yet been before reported. Some transcription factors were found to respond to all three kinases, whereas others were only activated by one specific kinase. Differential responses were also observed within a family of transcription factors. The diverse response to kinases provides flexibility to ensure proper genomic response of steroidogenic cells to different stimuli.
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The Role of Adiponectin in the Resolution of Male-Obesity-Associated Secondary Hypogonadism after Metabolic Surgery and Its Impact on Cardiovascular Risk. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082000. [PMID: 36009547 PMCID: PMC9405896 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male-obesity-associated secondary hypogonadism (MOSH) is a very prevalent entity that may resolve after marked weight loss. Adiponectin (APN) is an adipokine with anti-inflammatory properties that regulates metabolism. Low-circulating APN is associated with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk, along with circulating testosterone. We aimed to evaluate APN changes in men with MOSH (low circulating free testosterone (FT) with low or normal gonadotropins) and without it after metabolic surgery. We look for their possible association with cardiovascular risk measured by carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). We included 60 men (20 submitted to lifestyle modification, 20 to sleeve gastrectomy, and 20 to gastric bypass) evaluated at baseline and 6 months after. The increase in APN at follow-up was reduction in patients with persistent MOSH (n = 10) vs. those without MOSH (n = 30) and MOSH resolution (n = 20), and the former did not achieve a decrease in cIMT. The increase in APN correlated positively with FT (r = 0.320, p = 0.013) and inversely with cIMT (r = −0.283, p = 0.028). FT inversely correlated with cIMT (r = −0.269, p = 0.038). In conclusion, men without MOSH or with MOSH resolution showed a high increase in APN after weight loss with beneficial effects on cIMT. Those without MOSH resolution failed to attain these effects.
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Adipose Tissue Dysfunction and Obesity-Related Male Hypogonadism. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158194. [PMID: 35897769 PMCID: PMC9330735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic illness associated with several metabolic derangements and comorbidities (i.e., insulin resistance, leptin resistance, diabetes, etc.) and often leads to impaired testicular function and male subfertility. Several mechanisms may indeed negatively affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal health, such as higher testosterone conversion to estradiol by aromatase activity in the adipose tissue, increased ROS production, and the release of several endocrine molecules affecting the hypothalamus–pituitary–testis axis by both direct and indirect mechanisms. In addition, androgen deficiency could further accelerate adipose tissue expansion and therefore exacerbate obesity, which in turn enhances hypogonadism, thus inducing a vicious cycle. Based on these considerations, we propose an overview on the relationship of adipose tissue dysfunction and male hypogonadism, highlighting the main biological pathways involved and the current therapeutic options to counteract this condition.
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Salvio G, Ciarloni A, Cutini M, delli Muti N, Finocchi F, Perrone M, Rossi S, Balercia G. Metabolic Syndrome and Male Fertility: Beyond Heart Consequences of a Complex Cardiometabolic Endocrinopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105497. [PMID: 35628307 PMCID: PMC9143238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a highly prevalent condition among adult males, affecting up to 41% of men in Europe. It is characterized by the association of obesity, hypertension, and atherogenic dyslipidemia, which lead to premature morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Male infertility is another common condition which accounts for about 50% of cases of couple infertility worldwide. Interestingly, male infertility and MetS shares several risk factors (e.g., smoking, ageing, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption), leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and increased oxidative stress (OS), and resulting in endothelial dysfunction and altered semen quality. Thus, the present narrative review aims to discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms which link male infertility and MetS and to investigate the latest available evidence on the reproductive consequences of MetS.
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Effect of Omega-3 or Omega-6 Dietary Supplementation on Testicular Steroidogenesis, Adipokine Network, Cytokines, and Oxidative Stress in Adult Male Rats. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:5570331. [PMID: 34257810 PMCID: PMC8260291 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5570331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to elucidate the effect of omega-3 and omega-6 supplementation on the levels of different adipokines and cytokines, as well as the antioxidant system, in relation to male reproductive hormones and testicular functions. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were daily gavaged with either physiological saline (control group), sunflower oil (omega 6 group; 1 mL/kg body weight), or fish oil (omega-3 group; 1000 mg/kg body weight) for 12 weeks. The administration of omega-3 or omega-6 resulted in decreased serum concentrations of kisspeptin 1, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone. In addition, it downregulated the mRNA expression levels of steroidogenic genes. The intratesticular levels of apelin, adiponectin, and irisin were elevated while chemerin, leptin, resistin, vaspin, and visfatin were declined following the administration of either omega-3 or omega-6. The testicular concentration of interleukin 10 was increased while interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, and nuclear factor kappa B were decreased after consumption of omega-3 or omega-6. In the testes, the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1, and the total antioxidant capacity were improved. In conclusion, the administration of omega-3 or omega-6 adversely affects the process of steroidogenesis but improves the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status of the reproductive system via modulating the levels of testicular adipokines.
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Lv WH, Chen GH, Zhuo MQ, Xu YH, Xu YC, Tan XY. Functional Analysis of Steroidogenic Factor 1 (sf-1) and 17α-Hydroxylase/Lyase (cyp17α) Promoters in Yellow Catfish Pelteobagrus fulvidraco. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010195. [PMID: 33375507 PMCID: PMC7795741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study was performed to clone and characterize the structures and functions of steroidogenic factor 1 (sf-1) and 17α-hydroxylase/lyase (cyp17α) promoters in yellow catfish Pelteobagrus fulvidraco, a widely distributed freshwater teleost. We successfully obtained 1981 and 2034 bp sequences of sf-1 and cyp17α promoters, and predicted the putative binding sites of several transcription factors, such as Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), on sf-1 and cyp17α promoter regions, respectively. Overexpression of PPARγ significantly increased the activities of sf-1 and cyp17α promoters, but overexpression of PPARα significantly decreased the promoter activities of sf-1 and cyp17α. Overexpression of STAT3 reduced the activity of the sf-1 promoter but increased the activity of the cyp17α promoter. The analysis of site-mutation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay suggested that the sf-1 promoter possessed the STAT3 binding site, but did not the PPARα or PPARγ binding sites. In contrast, only the PPARγ site, not PPARα or STAT3 sites, was functional with the cyp17α promoter. Leptin significantly increased sf-1 promoter activity, but the mutation of STAT3 and PPARγ sites decreased leptin-induced activation of sf-1 promoter. Our findings offered the novel insights into the transcriptional regulation of sf-1 and cyp17α and suggested leptin regulated sf-1 promoter activity through STAT3 site in yellow catfish.
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Lee KH. Expression of Adipocyte-Associated Genes in the Mouse Tail Epididymal Fat at Different Postnatal Ages. Dev Reprod 2020; 24:167-176. [PMID: 33110948 PMCID: PMC7576962 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2020.24.3.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The fat pad defined as the epididymal fat is located at the head part of the epididymis. However, another fat mass is present near the caudal epididymis, named tail epididymal fat. The present research was focused to determine the expression of adipocyte-associated molecules in the mouse tail epididymal fat at different postnatal ages, including 2, 5, 8, and 12 months of age. The quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed continuous increases of expression levels of delta like non-canonical Notch ligand 1, leptin, and resistin as postnatally aged. The transcript level of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma was the highest at 5 months of age, remaining at a steady level until 12 months of age. Expression levels of fatty acid binding protein 4, leptin, and adiponectin were significantly increased until 8 months of age, persisting the level at 12 months of age. The transcript level of fatty acid synthase was significantly increased at 8 months of age, without a further change of the level at 12 months of age. These findings exhibited the expression of adipocyte-associated genes which were also detected at the ordinary epididymal fat pad. However, expression patterns of these genes in the tail epididymal fat are different with those in the distal and proximal epididymal fat, suggesting distinct characteristics and/or functions of the tail epididymal fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 34824, Korea
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Derkach KV, Bakhtyukov AA, Romanova IV, Zorina II, Bayunova LV, Bondareva VM, Yu Morina I, Kumar Roy V, Shpakov AO. The effect of metformin treatment on the basal and gonadotropin-stimulated steroidogenesis in male rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13816. [PMID: 32951228 DOI: 10.1111/and.13816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus impairs reproductive functions in men, and important tasks are deciphering the mechanisms of testicular dysfunctions in diabetes and the search of effective approaches to their correction. The purpose was to study the effect of four-week metformin treatment (120 mg kg-1 day-1 ) of male Wistar rats with high-fat diet/low-dose streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes on basal and gonadotropin-stimulated steroidogenesis, intratesticular content of leptin and the leptin and luteinising hormone receptors and on spermatogenesis. Diabetic rats had hyperleptinaemia, androgen deficiency and reduced sperm count and quality, and in the testes, they had the increased leptin level and the decreased content of the leptin and luteinising hormone receptors and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. The stimulating effects of chorionic gonadotropin on testosterone production and expression of steroidogenic genes (Star, Cyp11a1) were decreased. Metformin restored basal and gonadotropin-stimulated blood testosterone levels. In the testes, it restored gonadotropin-stimulated 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and testosterone levels, Star expression and the content of leptin and the leptin and luteinising hormone receptors. Metformin also improved epididymal sperm count and morphology. We concluded that metformin treatment normalises the testicular steroidogenesis in diabetic rats, which is due to restoration of the gonadotropin and leptin systems in the testes and is associated with an improvement in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira V Derkach
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey A Bakhtyukov
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina V Romanova
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Inna I Zorina
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Liubov V Bayunova
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vera M Bondareva
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina Yu Morina
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Alexander O Shpakov
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Leptin promotes proliferation of neonatal mouse stem/progenitor spermatogonia. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2825-2838. [PMID: 32840762 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01929-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To keep and increase spermatogonial stem cell number (SSC) is the only available option for pediatric cancer survivors to maintain fertility. Leptin is secreted by the epididymal white adipose tissue and has receptors on stem/progenitor spermatogonia. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate dose- and time-dependent proliferative effect of leptin on stem/progenitor spermatogonia cultures from prepubertal mice testes. METHODS CD90.2 (+) stem/progenitor spermatogonia were isolated from the C57BL/6 mouse testis on postnatal day 6 and placed in culture. The proliferative effect of leptin supplementation was assessed by colony formation (diameter and number), WST proliferation assays, and xCELLigence real-time cell analysis (RTCA) on days 3, 5, and 7 of culture. Expressions of p-ERK1/2, p-STAT3, total STAT3, and p-SHP2 levels were determined by western blot analysis. RESULTS Leptin supplementation of 100 ng/ml increased the diameter (p = 0.001) and number (p = 0.01) of colonies in stem/progenitor spermatogonial cultures and caused higher proliferation by WST-1 (p = 0.009) compared with the control on day 7. The EC50 was calculated as 114 ng/ml for leptin by RTCA. Proliferative dose of leptin induced increased expression of p-ERK1/2 (p = 0.009) and p-STAT3 (p = 0.023) on stem/progenitor spermatogonia when compared with the untreated group. CONCLUSION The results indicated that leptin supplementation exhibited a dose- and time-dependent proliferative effect on stem/progenitor spermatogonia that was associated with increased expression of ERK1/2 and STAT3 pathways while maintaining their undifferentiated state. This output presents a new agent that may help to expand the stem/progenitor spermatogonia pool from the neonatal testis in order to autotransplant after cancer treatment.
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Improvement of Testicular Steroidogenesis Using Flavonoids and Isoflavonoids for Prevention of Late-Onset Male Hypogonadism. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9030237. [PMID: 32183155 PMCID: PMC7139932 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9030237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen production, being important for male fertility, is mainly accomplished by the Leydig cells from the interstitial compartment of the testis. Testosterone plays a critical role in testis development, normal masculinization, and the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Within seminiferous tubules, appropriate Sertoli cell function is highly dependent on testicular androgen levels and is essential to initiate and maintain spermatogenesis. During aging, testosterone production by the testicular Leydig cells declines from the 30s in humans at a rate of 1% per year. This review outlines the recent findings regarding the use of flavonoids and isoflavonoids to improve testosterone production, contributing to normal spermatogenesis and preventing age-related degenerative diseases associated with testosterone deficiency. With the cumulation of information on the actions of different flavonoids and isoflavonoids on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells, we can now draw conclusions regarding the structure-activity relationship on androgen production. Indeed, flavonoids having a 5,7-dihydroxychromen-4-one backbone tend to increase the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), being critical for the entry of cholesterol into the mitochondria, leading to increased testosterone production from testis Leydig cells. Therefore, flavonoids and isoflavonoids such as chrysin, apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and daidzein may be effective in delaying the initiation of late-onset hypogonadism associated with aging in males.
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The intake of an extract from seeds of Tamarindus indica L. modulates the endocrine function of adult male mice under a high fat diet. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03310. [PMID: 32051875 PMCID: PMC7002859 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
TBP is a natural product from Tamarindus indica L. seeds used as a natural remedy in India. This product is an antioxidant and may have beneficial effects on endocrine and metabolic functions. However, the regulatory mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated. In males, testosterone is synthesized by Leydig cells from the testis. With aging and obesity, testis function declines, leading to decreased testosterone synthesis. The aim of the current research is to determine how TBP improves testosterone production in male mice under a high fat diet leading to hypoandrogenic condition. Using C2C12 myoblast cells, we have found that TBP increased mitochondrial mass and oxygen respiration, as well as the production of the IGF-1 hormone. In addition, treatment of TM3 Leydig cells with TBP resulted in increased testosterone production. In mice under a high fat diet, TBP lowered blood glucose level and corticosterone production and improved total testosterone production after five weeks of treatment. In addition, testicular expressions of genes encoding the mitochondrial transporter of cholesterol (Star) and steroidogenic enzymes (Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1 and Hsd17b3) were increased by TBP. Hence, TBP may prevent the detrimental effects of long-term consumption of a high fat diet and may have health benefits on the endocrine function.
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Derkach KV, Bakhtyukov AA, Roy V, Gryaznov AY, Bayunova LV, Shpakov AO. The Testicular Leptin System in Rats with Different Severity of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093020010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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15
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Estienne A, Bongrani A, Reverchon M, Ramé C, Ducluzeau PH, Froment P, Dupont J. Involvement of Novel Adipokines, Chemerin, Visfatin, Resistin and Apelin in Reproductive Functions in Normal and Pathological Conditions in Humans and Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184431. [PMID: 31505789 PMCID: PMC6769682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that adipokines are endocrine factors that are mainly secreted by white adipose tissue. Their central role in energy metabolism is currently accepted. More recently, their involvement in fertility regulation and the development of some reproductive disorders has been suggested. Data concerning the role of leptin and adiponectin, the two most studied adipokines, in the control of the reproductive axis are consistent. In recent years, interest has grown about some novel adipokines, chemerin, visfatin, resistin and apelin, which have been found to be strongly associated with obesity and insulin-resistance. Here, we will review their expression and role in male and female reproduction in humans and animal models. According to accumulating evidence, they could regulate the secretion of GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone), gonadotropins and steroids. Furthermore, their expression and that of their receptors (if known), has been demonstrated in the human and animal hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis. Like leptin and adiponectin, these novel adipokines could thus represent metabolic sensors that are able to regulate reproductive functions according to energy balance changes. Therefore, after investigating their role in normal fertility, we will also discuss their possible involvement in some reproductive troubles known to be associated with features of metabolic syndrome, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia and intra-uterine growth retardation in women, and sperm abnormalities and testicular pathologies in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Estienne
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Alice Bongrani
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Maxime Reverchon
- SYSAAF-Syndicat des Sélectionneurs Avicoles et Aquacoles Français, Centre INRA Val de Loire, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Christelle Ramé
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Pierre-Henri Ducluzeau
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Internal Medicine Department, Unit of Endocrinology, CHRU Tours, F-37044 Tours, France
| | - Pascal Froment
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Joëlle Dupont
- INRA UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
- CNRS UMR 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
- Université François Rabelais de Tours F-37041 Tours, France.
- IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
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16
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Oner M, Lin E, Chen MC, Hsu FN, Shazzad Hossain Prince GM, Chiu KY, Teng CLJ, Yang TY, Wang HY, Yue CH, Yu CH, Lai CH, Hsieh JT, Lin H. Future Aspects of CDK5 in Prostate Cancer: From Pathogenesis to Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20163881. [PMID: 31395805 PMCID: PMC6720211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20163881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) is a unique member of the cyclin-dependent kinase family. CDK5 is activated by binding with its regulatory proteins, mainly p35, and its activation is essential in the development of the central nervous system (CNS) and neurodegeneration. Recently, it has been reported that CDK5 plays important roles in regulating various biological and pathological processes, including cancer progression. Concerning prostate cancer, the androgen receptor (AR) is majorly involved in tumorigenesis, while CDK5 can phosphorylate AR and promotes the proliferation of prostate cancer cells. Clinical evidence has also shown that the level of CDK5 is associated with the progression of prostate cancer. Interestingly, inhibition of CDK5 prevents prostate cancer cell growth, while drug-triggered CDK5 hyperactivation leads to apoptosis. The blocking of CDK5 activity by its small interfering RNAs (siRNA) or Roscovitine, a pan-CDK inhibitor, reduces the cellular AR protein level and triggers the death of prostate cancer cells. Thus, CDK5 plays a crucial role in the growth of prostate cancer cells, and AR regulation is one of the important pathways. In this review paper, we summarize the significant studies on CDK5-mediated regulation of prostate cancer cells. We propose that the CDK5–p35 complex might be an outstanding candidate as a diagnostic marker and potential target for prostate cancer treatment in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet Oner
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Eugene Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 505, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chih Chen
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Ning Hsu
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | | | - Kun-Yuan Chiu
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Lin Jerry Teng
- Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Internal, Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ying Yang
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Herng Yue
- Department of Surgery, Tung's Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Han Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ho Lai
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chang Gung Medical University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Jer-Tsong Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Ho Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.
- Program in Translational Medicine and Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.
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17
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The Role of Apelin in the Functioning of the Reproductive System. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2019. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2019-4.3.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipokine apelin through the apelin receptors activates a wide range of signaling cascades in the target cells and controls their growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and energy metabolism. In the recent years, the evidence has been obtained that all components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis, in which apelin and its receptor are expressed, are targets of apelin. In the hypothalamus, apelin modulates the activity of the melanocortin and ghrelin systems and indirectly affects the production of gonadoliberin. In the ovaries, it controls the growth and maturation of the follicles, stimulates the angiogenesis, and affects the basal and stimulated by the other factors steroidogenic activity in follicular cells. The changes in the apelin signaling system are closely associated with dysfunctions of the female reproductive system, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancer. Information on the regulation of the male reproductive system by apelin is limited to animal studies showing the effect of apelin on the hypothalamic components of the gonad axis. The participation of apelin in the regulation of the reproductive system opens up the broad opportunities for the development of new approaches for the correction of abnormalities in this system and for the treatment of infertility.
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18
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Ameliorating effects of exercise on disrupted epididymal sperm parameters in high fat diet-induced obese rats. MARMARA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.5472/marumj.518732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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19
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Insights into leptin signaling and male reproductive health: the missing link between overweight and subfertility? Biochem J 2018; 475:3535-3560. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Obesity stands as one of the greatest healthcare challenges of the 21st century. Obesity in reproductive-age men is ever more frequent and is reaching upsetting levels. At the same time, fertility has taken an inverse direction and is decreasing, leading to an increased demand for fertility treatments. In half of infertile couples, there is a male factor alone or combined with a female factor. Furthermore, male fertility parameters such as sperm count and concentration went on a downward spiral during the last few decades and are now approaching the minimum levels established to achieve successful fertilization. Hence, the hypothesis that obesity and deleterious effects in male reproductive health, as reflected in deterioration of sperm parameters, are somehow related is tempting. Most often, overweight and obese individuals present leptin levels directly proportional to the increased fat mass. Leptin, besides the well-described central hypothalamic effects, also acts in several peripheral organs, including the testes, thus highlighting a possible regulatory role in male reproductive function. In the last years, research focusing on leptin effects in male reproductive function has unveiled additional roles and molecular mechanisms of action for this hormone at the testicular level. Herein, we summarize the novel molecular signals linking metabolism and male reproductive function with a focus on leptin signaling, mitochondria and relevant pathways for the nutritional support of spermatogenesis.
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Crisóstomo L, Alves MG, Gorga A, Sousa M, Riera MF, Galardo MN, Meroni SB, Oliveira PF. Molecular Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways Involved in the Nutritional Support of Spermatogenesis by Sertoli Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1748:129-155. [PMID: 29453570 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7698-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells play a central role in spermatogenesis. They maintain the blood-testis barrier, an essential feature of seminiferous tubules which creates the proper environment for the occurrence of the spermatogenesis. However, this confinement renders germ cells almost exclusively dependent on Sertoli cells' nursing function and support. Throughout spermatogenesis, differentiating sperm cells become more specialized, and their biochemical machinery is insufficient to meet their metabolic demands. Although the needs are not the same at all differentiation stages, Sertoli cells are able to satisfy their needs. In order to maintain the seminiferous tubule energetic homeostasis, Sertoli cells react in response to several metabolic stimuli, through signaling cascades. The AMP-activated kinase, sensitive to the global energetic status; the hypoxia-inducible factors, sensitive to oxygen concentration; and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, sensitive to fatty acid availability, are pathways already described in Sertoli cells. These cells' metabolism also reflects the whole-body metabolic dynamics. Metabolic diseases, including obesity and type II diabetes mellitus, induce changes that, both directly and indirectly, affect Sertoli cell function and, ultimately, (dys)function in male reproductive health. Insulin resistance, increased estrogen synthesis, vascular disease, and pubic fat accumulation are examples of metabolic-related conditions that affect male fertility potential. On the other hand, malnutrition can also induce negative effects on male sexual function. In this chapter, we review the molecular mechanisms associated with the nutritional state and male sexual (dys)function and the central role played by the Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Crisóstomo
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine (FMUP), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Agostina Gorga
- CONICET-FEI-División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr César Bergadá", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mário Sousa
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Prof. Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
| | - María F Riera
- CONICET-FEI-División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr César Bergadá", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María N Galardo
- CONICET-FEI-División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr César Bergadá", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina B Meroni
- CONICET-FEI-División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr César Bergadá", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
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Differential Susceptibility of Germ and Leydig Cells to Cadmium-Mediated Toxicity: Impact on Testis Structure, Adiponectin Levels, and Steroidogenesis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:3405089. [PMID: 29422988 PMCID: PMC5750493 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3405089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between germ and Leydig cell death, testosterone, and adiponectin levels in cadmium-mediated acute toxicity. Cadmium chloride was administered in a single dose to five groups of rats: G1 (0.9% NaCl) and G2 to G5 (0.67, 0.74, 0.86, and 1.1 mg Cd/kg). After 7 days, the animals were euthanized, and the testosterone and testes were analyzed. Dose-dependent Cd accumulation in the testes was identified. At 0.86 and 1.1 mg/kg, animals exhibited marked inflammatory infiltrate and disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium. While Leydig cells were morphologically resistant to Cd toxicity, massive germ cell death and DNA oxidation and fragmentation were observed. Although numerical density of Leydig cells was unchanged, testosterone levels were significantly impaired in animals exposed to 0.86 and 1.1 mg Cd/kg, occurring in parallel with the reduction in total adiponectins and the increase in high-molecular weight adiponectin levels. Our findings indicated that Leydig and germ cells exhibit differential microstructural resistance to Cd toxicity. While germ cells are a primary target of Cd-induced toxicity, Leydig cells remain resistant to death even when exposed to high doses of Cd. Despite morphological resistance, steroidogenesis was drastically impaired by Cd exposure, an event potentially related to the imbalance in adiponectin production.
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22
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Bang AK, Nordkap L, Almstrup K, Priskorn L, Petersen JH, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Andersson AM, Juul A, Jørgensen N. Dynamic GnRH and hCG testing: establishment of new diagnostic reference levels. Eur J Endocrinol 2017; 176:379-391. [PMID: 28077499 DOI: 10.1530/eje-16-0912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation tests may be used to evaluate the pituitary and testicular capacity. Our aim was to evaluate changes in follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone after GnRH and hCG stimulation in healthy men and assess the impact of six single nucleotide polymorphisms on the responses. DESIGN GnRH and hCG stimulation tests were performed on 77 healthy men, 18-40 years (reference group) at a specialized andrology referral center at a university hospital. The potential influence of the tests was illustrated by results from 45 patients suspected of disordered hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. METHODS Baseline, stimulated, relative and absolute changes in serum FSH and LH were determined by ultrasensitive TRIFMA, and testosterone was determined by LC-MS/MS. RESULTS For the reference group, LH and FSH increased almost 400% and 40% during GnRH testing, stimulated levels varied from 4.4 to 58.8 U/L and 0.2 to 11.8 U/L and FSH decreased in nine men. Testosterone increased approximately 110% (range: 18.7-67.6 nmol/L) during hCG testing. None of the polymorphisms had any major impact on the test results. Results from GnRH and hCG tests in patients compared with the reference group showed that the stimulated level and absolute increase in LH showed superior identification of patients compared with the relative increase, and the absolute change in testosterone was superior in identifying men with Leydig cell insufficiency, compared with the relative increase. CONCLUSIONS We provide novel reference ranges for GnRH and hCG test in healthy men, which allows future diagnostic evaluation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal disorders in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kirstine Bang
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Loa Nordkap
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Holm Petersen
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)Rigshospitalet, Denmark
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Landry DA, Sormany F, Haché J, Roumaud P, Martin LJ. Steroidogenic genes expressions are repressed by high levels of leptin and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in MA-10 Leydig cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 433:79-95. [PMID: 28343310 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3017-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The adipose tissue is an important endocrine organ secreting numerous peptide hormones, including leptin. Increased circulating levels of leptin, as a result of hormonal resistance in obese individuals, may contribute to lower androgen production in obese males. However, the molecular mechanisms involved need to be better defined. Androgens are mainly produced by Leydig cells within the testis. In male rodents, activation of the leptin receptor modulates a cascade of intracellular signal transduction pathways which may lead to regulation of transcription factors having influences on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells. Thus, as a result of high leptin levels interacting with its receptor and modulating the activity of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, the activity of transcription factors important for steroidogenic genes expressions may be inhibited in Leydig cells. Here we show that Lepr is increasingly expressed within Leydig cells according to postnatal development. Although high levels of leptin (corresponding to obesity condition) alone had no effect on Leydig cells' steroidogenic genes expression, it downregulated cAMP-dependent activations of the cholesterol transporter Star and of the rate-limiting steroidogenic enzyme Cyp11a1. Our results suggest that STAT transcriptional activity is downregulated by high levels of leptin, leading to reduced cAMP-dependent steroidogenic genes (Star and Cyp11a1) expressions in MA-10 Leydig cells. However, other transcription factors such as members of the SMAD and NFAT families may be involved and need further investigation to better define how leptin regulates their activities and their relevance for Leydig cells function.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Landry
- Department of Biology, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - François Sormany
- Department of Biology, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Josée Haché
- Department of Biology, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Pauline Roumaud
- Department of Biology, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Department of Biology, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada.
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Loss of PI3K p110 α in the Adipose Tissue Results in Infertility and Delayed Puberty Onset in Male Mice. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:3756089. [PMID: 28357399 PMCID: PMC5357525 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3756089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Deletion of PI3K catalytic subunit p110α in adipose tissue (aP2-Cre/p110αflx/flx, α−/− hereafter) results in increased adiposity, glucose intolerance, and liver steatosis. Because this endocrine organ releases hormones like leptin, which are important in reproductive physiology, we investigated the reproductive phenotype of α−/− males. Compared to controls, α−/− males displayed delayed onset of puberty accompanied by a reduction in plasma LH levels and testicular weight. At postnatal day 30, α−/− mice exhibited normal body weight but elevated fasted plasma leptin levels. Testicular leptin gene expression was increased, whereas expression of the cholesterol transporter StAR and of P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme was decreased. Adult α−/− males were infertile and exhibited hyperandrogenemia with normal basal LH, FSH, and estradiol levels. However, neither sperm counts nor sperm motility was different between genotypes. The mRNA levels of leptin and of 17-beta-dehydrogenase 3, and enzyme important for testosterone production, were significantly higher in the testis of adult α−/− males. The mRNA levels of ERα, an important regulator of intratesticular steroidogenesis, were lower in the testis of adult and peripubertal α−/− males. We propose that chronic hyperleptinemia contributes to the negative impact that disrupting PI3K signaling in adipocytes has on puberty onset, steroidogenesis, and fertility in males.
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