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Vetr NG, Gay NR, Montgomery SB. The impact of exercise on gene regulation in association with complex trait genetics. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3346. [PMID: 38693125 PMCID: PMC11063075 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45966-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Endurance exercise training is known to reduce risk for a range of complex diseases. However, the molecular basis of this effect has been challenging to study and largely restricted to analyses of either few or easily biopsied tissues. Extensive transcriptome data collected across 15 tissues during exercise training in rats as part of the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium has provided a unique opportunity to clarify how exercise can affect tissue-specific gene expression and further suggest how exercise adaptation may impact complex disease-associated genes. To build this map, we integrate this multi-tissue atlas of gene expression changes with gene-disease targets, genetic regulation of expression, and trait relationship data in humans. Consensus from multiple approaches prioritizes specific tissues and genes where endurance exercise impacts disease-relevant gene expression. Specifically, we identify a total of 5523 trait-tissue-gene triplets to serve as a valuable starting point for future investigations [Exercise; Transcription; Human Phenotypic Variation].
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Dos Santos NL, Lenert ME, Castillo ZW, Mody PH, Thompson LT, Burton MD. Age and sex drive differential behavioral and neuroimmune phenotypes during postoperative pain. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 123:129-144. [PMID: 36577640 PMCID: PMC9892227 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2022.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Surgical procedures in the geriatric population are steadily increasing, driven by improved healthcare technologies and longer lifespans. However, effective postoperative pain treatments are lacking, and this diminishes quality of life and recovery. Here we present one of the first preclinical studies to pursue sex- and age-specific differences in postoperative neuroimmune phenotypes and pain. We found that aged males, but not females, had a delayed onset of mechanical hypersensitivity post-surgery and faster resolution than young counterparts. This sex-specific age effect was accompanied by decreased paw innervation and increased local inflammation. Additionally, we find evidence of an age-dependent decrease in hyperalgesic priming and perioperative changes in nociceptor populations and spinal microglia in the aged. These findings suggest that impaired neuronal function and maladaptive inflammatory mechanisms influence postoperative pain development in advanced age. Elucidation of these neuroimmune phenotypes across age and sex enables the development of novel therapies that can be tailored for improved pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia L Dos Santos
- Neuroimmunology and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA
| | - Melissa E Lenert
- Neuroimmunology and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA
| | - Zachary W Castillo
- Neuroimmunology and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA
| | - Prapti H Mody
- Neuroimmunology and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA
| | - Lucien T Thompson
- Aging and Memory Research Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA
| | - Michael D Burton
- Neuroimmunology and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX, USA.
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Sakamoto SH, Nishijima K, Ohno T, Tanaka S. Effects of aging and delivery order on the breeding capacity of F344/N rats. J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:960-963. [PMID: 35584944 PMCID: PMC9353086 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.22-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive performance affects the efficiency of the production of animals. Therefore, knowing the reproductive properties of each species or strain of animal is important for proper management of breeding stocks. To elucidate the reproductive properties of female F344/N rats, frequently used for longevity and gerontology research, we monitored the breeding duration, number of deliveries, litter size and weaning rate of their pups. The first delivery was observed at 2.9 ± 0.1 (mean ± standard deviation) months of age (M) and the last delivery was at 15.1 ± 1.8 M. The number of deliveries was 10.4 ± 2.8 (range of 7-16) within the life span of the mother (24.7 ± 5.6 M). The litter sizes at the third (10.0 ± 3.0) or fourth (10.3 ± 2.7) deliveries were higher than for other deliveries. The breeding outcome declined after the fifth delivery yielding reduced litter size or weaning rate, number of delivered mother. These results suggests that though female F344/N rats are able to deliver more than 10 times, the reproductive performance lowered after fifth delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazutoshi Nishijima
- Center for Animal Resources and Collaborative Study, National Institutes of Natural Sciences.,Department of Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences.,Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies)
| | - Tamio Ohno
- Division of Experimental Animals, Center for Promotion of Medical Research and Education, Graduate School of Nagoya University
| | - Shin Tanaka
- Formerly Animal Facility for Aging Research, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG)
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Rodrigues-Santos I, Kalil-Cutti B, Anselmo-Franci JA. Low Corticosterone Response to Stress in a Perimenopausal Rat Model Is Associated with the Hypoactivation of PaMP Region of the Paraventricular Nucleus and Can Be Corrected by Exogenous Progesterone Supplementation. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:467-480. [PMID: 34348338 DOI: 10.1159/000518336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The transition to menopause is characterized by mood, behavioral and metabolic changes. However, little is known about the changes in adrenal response to stress. AIMS The aim of the study was to evaluate, in an animal model of perimenopause induced by 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD), (1) the endocrine and neuronal stress system activity in response to acute restraint stress and (2) the effect of hormonal therapy in this response. METHODS Prepubertal female Wistar rats received daily injections (s.c) of oil or VCD (160 mg/kg) for 15 days. On 56th-66th days after treatment onset, the groups to be stressed received s.c implants containing placebo (PL), 17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), or E2P4. At 80 ± 5 days after VCD/oil injections, stress was applied for 30 min. Blood samples were collected immediately after and 60 min after the end of stress session from the tail tip followed by transcardial perfusion with PFA 4% for the assessment of c-Fos expression in the medial and posterior parvocellular (PaMP and PaPo) subdivisions of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and c-Fos/tyrosine hydroxylase in the locus coeruleus (LC) using immunohistochemistry. Control groups were not stressed nor received hormone therapy. RESULTS While basal corticosterone levels were similar between VCD-periestropausal and control rats, the secretion in response to stress in the VCD group was lower. This effect was prevented by P4 therapy. Inversely, basal levels of P4 were lower in VCD-periestropausal rats than in the controls, and no differences were found in response to stress between the groups. As expected, 30-min restraint stress increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in all brain areas studied in both control and VCD-periestropausal rats. However, the c-Fos increase in the PaMP region was attenuated. In all areas examined, there were no significant differences in the number of c-Fos-positive neurons across hormonal therapies. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION This is the first study to demonstrate in a perimenopausal rat model that reproductive aging is accompanied by inadequate secretion of corticosterone in response to acute stress in association with the hypoactivation of the PaMP region of the PVN, while adrenal P4 response is preserved. Moreover, P4 therapy was shown to attenuate the effects of progressive ovarian failure on adrenal functioning during stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Rodrigues-Santos
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil,
| | - Bruna Kalil-Cutti
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janete Aparecida Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology of Dentistry School of Ribeirão Preto, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Carolino ROG, Barros PT, Kalil B, Anselmo-Franci J. Endocrine profile of the VCD-induced perimenopausal model rat. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226874. [PMID: 31887176 PMCID: PMC6936812 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the transition to menopause, women experience a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that are directly or indirectly linked to changes in hormone secretion. Establishing animal models with intact ovaries is essential for understanding these interactions and finding new therapeutic targets. In this study, we assessed the endocrine profile, as well as the estrous cycle, in the 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-induced follicular depletion rat model in 10-day intervals over 1 month to accurately establish the best period for studies of the transition period. Twenty-eight-day-old female rats were injected daily with VCD or oil s.c. for 15 days and euthanized in the diestrus phase approximately 70, 80, 90 and 100 days after the onset of treatment. The percentage of rats showing irregular cycles and the plasma level of FSH increased only in the 100-day VCD group. Plasma anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and progesterone were lower in all VCD groups compared to control groups, while estradiol remained unchanged or higher. As in control groups, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) progressively decreased in the 70-90-day VCD groups; however, it was followed by a sharp increase only in the 100-day VCD group. No changes were found in plasma corticosterone, prolactin, thyroid hormones or luteinizing hormone. Based on the estrous cycle and endocrine profile, we conclude that 1) the time window from 70 to 100 days is suitable to study a perimenopause-like state in this model, and 2) regular cycles with low progesterone and AMH and normal FSH can be used as markers of the early/mid-transition period, whereas irregular cycles associated with higher FSH and DHT can be used as markers of the late transition period to estropause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruither O. G. Carolino
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo T. Barros
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruna Kalil
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Janete Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Sex- and Age-dependent Differences in Sleep-wake Characteristics of Fisher-344 Rats. Neuroscience 2019; 427:29-42. [PMID: 31846749 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a well-recognized risk factor for sleep disruption. The characteristics of sleep in aging include its disruption by frequent awakenings, a decline in both non-rapid eye movement (nonREM) and REM sleep amounts, and a weaker homeostatic response to sleep loss. Evidence also suggests that sleep in females is more sensitive to changes in the ovarian steroidal milieu. The Fischer-344 rats are commonly used experimental subjects in behavioral and physiological studies, including sleep and aging. Most sleep studies in Fischer-344 rats have used male subjects to avoid interactions between the estrus and sleep-waking cycles. The changes in the sleep-wake organization of female Fischer-344 rats, especially with advancing age, are not well-characterized. We determined sleep-waking features of cycling females across estrus stages. We also compared spontaneous and homeostatic sleep response profiles of young (3-4 months) and old (24-25 months) male and female Fischer-344 rats. The results suggest that: i) sleep-wake architectures across stages of estrus cycle in young females were largely comparable except for a significant suppression of REM sleep at proestrus night and an increase in REM sleep the following day; ii) despite hormonal differences, sleep-wake architecture in male and female rats of corresponding ages were comparable except for the suppression of REM sleep at proestrus night and higher nonREM delta power in recovery sleep; and iii) aging significantly affected sleep-wake amounts, sleep-wake stability, and homeostatic response to sleep loss in both male and female rats and that the adverse effects of aging were largely comparable in both sexes.
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Anti-Atopic Dermatitis Effect of Seaweed Fulvescens Extract via Inhibiting the STAT1 Pathway. Mediators Inflamm 2019; 2019:3760934. [PMID: 31007602 PMCID: PMC6441517 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3760934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Seaweed fulvescens (SF) is a green alga rich in chlorophyll with unique flavor and taste. It is also called Maesaengi which has antioxidant and other physiological activities. In the present study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of SF in a mouse model of Dermatophagoides farinae body-induced atopic dermatitis (AD) and in tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes. SF treatment (200 mg/mouse) inhibited the development of AD symptoms, compared to that in the control group, as evidenced from the improved dorsal skin lesion, reduced thickness and infiltration of inflammatory cells and smaller lymph nodes, and reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines. In HaCaT keratinocytes, SF (10, 25, and 50 μg/mL) suppressed the production of proinflammatory cytokines in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, SF reduced the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1, which is one of the major signaling molecules involved in cellular inflammation. These results suggested that SF could be a potential therapeutic alternative for the treatment of AD.
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Nishijima K, Ohno T, Saito R, Sumi Y, Aoyama H, Tanaka S. Age-dependent changes of the mandible bone throughout the lifespan in female F344/N rat. J Anat 2018; 233:440-446. [PMID: 30073652 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-dependent changes of the mandible bone in female F344/N rats, aged 22-1196 days, were analyzed using physiological bone properties and morphology. Bone weight, bone area, bone mineral components, and bone mineral density were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The bone weight, bone area, bone mineral components, and bone mineral density increased rapidly until approximately 150 days of age, increased gradually thereafter, and then stabilized or decreased after 910 days of age. The ratio of bone mineral components to bone weight (bone mineral ratio) increased rapidly until approximately 43 days of age and stabilized thereafter. Size of the mandible, which was measured at 13 points on mandible surface, increased with age, and the rate of change showed a similar pattern to the other parameters. From a principal component analysis on morphometric measurements, principal component 1 (size factor) increased proportionally with age, whereas principal component 2 (shape factor) decreased until approximately 88 days of age and then increased after 365 days of age. As a result, the scatter plots for principal component 1 and principal component 2 were V-shaped, which indicates that the mandible developed in size, with deformation at younger ages, and recovered its original shape later in life. Our results revealed the occurrence of inflection points at approximately 43, 88, 150, 365, and 910 days of age. Some of these ages corresponded to transition points revealed by the age-dependent changes of the occlusal mandibular condyle and tooth wear in the same rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoshi Nishijima
- Animal Research Laboratory, Bioscience Education-Research Support Center, Akita University, Akita, Japan.,Animal Facility for Aging Research, National Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Tamio Ohno
- Animal Facility for Aging Research, National Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan.,Laboratory Animal Science, Division of Experimental Animals, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Saito
- The Primate Research Facility, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sumi
- Center of Advanced Medicine for Dental and Oral Diseases, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Aoyama
- Toxicology Division, Institute of Environmental Toxicology, Joso, Japan
| | - Shin Tanaka
- Animal Facility for Aging Research, National Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
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Garvin AM, Miller-Lee JL, Sharda DR, Kanski GM, Hunter JC, Korzick DH. Evidence of Altered Mitochondrial Protein Expression After Chronic Ethanol Consumption in the Aged Estrogen-Deficient Female Rat Heart. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:1288-1297. [PMID: 28543099 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen loss has been implicated to increase the risk of alcoholic cardiomyopathy in postmenopausal women. The purpose of this study was to identify novel mitochondrial protein targets for the treatment of alcoholic cardiomyopathy in aged women using a state-of-the-art proteomic approach. We hypothesized that chronic ethanol (EtOH) ingestion exacerbates maladaptive mitochondrial protein expression in the aged female heart. METHODS Adult (3 months) and aged (18 months) F344 ovary-intact or ovariectomized (OVX) rats were randomly assigned an EtOH or control Lieber-DeCarli "all-liquid" diet for 20 weeks. Proteomic analyses were conducted in mitochondria isolated from left ventricles using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) 8plex labeling and mass spectrometry (n = 3 to 5/group). RESULTS After EtOH, significant differences (false discovery rate <5%) were observed in electron transport chain components (NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] flavoprotein 2) as well as proteins involved in lipid metabolism (2,4 dienoyl-CoA reductase) and cellular defense (catalase), suggesting a possible link to congestive heart failure. Directional changes in protein levels were confirmed by Western blotting. Additionally, EtOH significantly reduced state 3 mitochondrial respiration in all groups, yet only reduced respiratory control index in the aged OVX rat heart (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the data reveal that EtOH-induced changes in the mitochondrial proteome exacerbate cardiac dysfunction in aged and estrogen-deficient hearts, but not in adult. In conclusion, iTRAQ is a powerful tool for investigating new mitochondrial targets of alcoholic cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Garvin
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Physiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer L Miller-Lee
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Daniel R Sharda
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Gregory M Kanski
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - J Craig Hunter
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Donna H Korzick
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Physiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.,Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
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Cruz G, Fernandois D, Paredes AH. Ovarian function and reproductive senescence in the rat: role of ovarian sympathetic innervation. Reproduction 2017; 153:R59-R68. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Successful reproduction is the result of a myriad interactions in which the ovary and the ovarian follicular reserve play a fundamental role. At present, women who delay maternity until after 30 years of age have a decreased fertility rate due to various causes, including damaged follicles and a reduction in the reserve pool of follicles. Therefore, the period just prior to menopause, also known as the subfertile period, is important. The possibility of modulating the follicular pool and the health of follicles during this period to improve fertility is worth exploring. We have developed an animal model to study the ovarian ageing process during this subfertile period to understand the mechanisms responsible for reproductive senescence. In the rat model, we have shown that the sympathetic nervous system participates in regulating the follicular development during ovarian ageing. This article reviews the existing evidence on the presence and functional role of sympathetic nerve activity in regulating the follicular development during ovarian ageing, with a focus on the subfertile period.Free Spanish abstract: A Spanish translation of this abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/153/2/R59/suppl/DC1.
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Halpern WG, Ameri M, Bowman CJ, Elwell MR, Mirsky ML, Oliver J, Regan KS, Remick AK, Sutherland VL, Thompson KE, Tremblay C, Yoshida M, Tomlinson L. Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee Points to Consider Review: Inclusion of Reproductive and Pathology End Points for Assessment of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity in Pharmaceutical Drug Development. Toxicol Pathol 2016; 44:789-809. [PMID: 27235322 PMCID: PMC4979743 DOI: 10.1177/0192623316650052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Standard components of nonclinical toxicity testing for novel pharmaceuticals include clinical and anatomic pathology, as well as separate evaluation of effects on reproduction and development to inform clinical development and labeling. General study designs in regulatory guidances do not specifically mandate use of pathology or reproductive end points across all study types; thus, inclusion and use of these end points are variable. The Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee of the Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP) formed a Working Group to assess the current guidelines and practices on the use of reproductive, anatomic pathology, and clinical pathology end points in general, reproductive, and developmental toxicology studies. The Working Group constructed a survey sent to pathologists and reproductive toxicologists, and responses from participating organizations were collected through the STP for evaluation by the Working Group. The regulatory context, relevant survey results, and collective experience of the Working Group are discussed and provide the basis of each assessment by study type. Overall, the current practice of including specific end points on a case-by-case basis is considered appropriate. Points to consider are summarized for inclusion of reproductive end points in general toxicity studies and for the informed use of pathology end points in reproductive and developmental toxicity studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Amera K Remick
- WIL Research, a Charles River Company, Hillsborough, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Midori Yoshida
- Food Safety Commission of Japan, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
Osteoporosis is a chronic systemic bone disease of growing relevance due to the on-going demographic change. Since the underlying regulatory mechanisms of this critical illness are still not fully understood and treatment options are not satisfactorily resolved, there is still a great need for osteoporosis research in general and animal models in particular. Ovariectomized rodents are standard animal models for postmenopausal osteoporosis and highly attractive due to the possibility to specifically modify their genetic background. However, some aspects can only be addressed in large animal models; such as metaphyseal fracture healing and advancement of orthopedic implants. Among other large animal models sheep in particular have been proven invaluable for osteoporosis research in this context. In conclusion, today we are able to influence the bone metabolism in animals causing a more or less pronounced systemic bone loss and structural deterioration comparable to the situation found in patients suffering from osteoporosis. However, there is no perfect model for osteoporosis, but a variety of models appropriate for answering specific questions. Though, the appropriateness of an animal model is not only defined in regard to the similarity to human physiology and the disease itself, but also in regard to acquisition, housing requirements, handling, costs, and particularly ethical concerns and animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Oheim
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Thorsten Schinke
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Amling
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pia Pogoda
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Yang G, Cheon SY, Chung KS, Lee SJ, Hong CH, Lee KT, Jang DS, Jeong JC, Kwon OK, Nam JH, An HJ. Solanum tuberosum L. cv Jayoung Epidermis Extract Inhibits Mite Antigen-Induced Atopic Dermatitis in NC/Nga Mice by Regulating the Th1/Th2 Balance and Expression of Filaggrin. J Med Food 2015; 18:1013-21. [PMID: 26102094 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2014.3338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Solanum tuberosum L. cv Jayoung (JY) is a potato with dark purple flesh and contains substantial amounts of polyphenols. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of S. tuberosum L. cv JY in a mouse model of Dermatophagoides farinae body (Dfb)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD). The ethanol extract of the peel of JY (EPJ) ameliorated Dfb-induced dermatitis severity, serum levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and thymus and activation-regulated chemokine. Histological analysis of the skin also revealed that EPJ treatment significantly decreased mast cell infiltration. The suppression of dermatitis by EPJ treatment was accompanied by a decrease in the skin levels of type 2 helper T-cell cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13. The induction of thymic stromal lymphopoietin, which leads to a systemic Th2 response, was also decreased in the skin by EPJ. Nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB p65 was decreased by EPJ in Dfb-induced NC/Nga mice. The protein expression of filaggrin in the AD-like skin lesions was restored by EPJ treatment. These results suggested that EPJ may be a potential therapeutic tool for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabsik Yang
- 1 Department of Oriental Pharmacology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
| | - Se-Yun Cheon
- 1 Department of Oriental Pharmacology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
| | - Kyung-Sook Chung
- 1 Department of Oriental Pharmacology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- 2 Department of Oriental Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology, and Dermatology Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
| | - Chul-Hee Hong
- 2 Department of Oriental Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology, and Dermatology Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Lee
- 3 Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Kyung Hee University , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University , Seoul, Korea
| | - Dae-Sik Jang
- 4 Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University , Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin-Cheol Jeong
- 5 Highland Agriculture Research Center, National Institute of Crop Science , Rural Development Administration, Gangwon, Korea
| | - Oh-Keun Kwon
- 5 Highland Agriculture Research Center, National Institute of Crop Science , Rural Development Administration, Gangwon, Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Nam
- 5 Highland Agriculture Research Center, National Institute of Crop Science , Rural Development Administration, Gangwon, Korea
| | - Hyo-Jin An
- 1 Department of Oriental Pharmacology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University , Gangwon, Korea
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Liu J, Lin H, Huang Y, Liu Y, Wang B, Su F. Cognitive effects of long-term dydrogesterone treatment used alone or with estrogen on rat menopausal models of different ages. Neuroscience 2015; 290:103-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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15
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Fannin J, Rice KM, Thulluri S, Dornon L, Arvapalli RK, Wehner P, Blough ER. Age-associated alterations of cardiac structure and function in the female F344xBN rat heart. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 36:9684. [PMID: 25062714 PMCID: PMC4150897 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-014-9684-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Fischer 344/NNiaHSD × Brown Norway/BiNia F1 (F344xBN) rat model exhibits an increased life span and fewer age-associated pathologies compared to commonly used Fischer 344 (F344). How aging may affect cardiac structure and function in these animals, has to our knowledge, not been investigated. Echocardiography was performed on female F344xBN rats at 6, 26, and 30 months of age using a Phillips 5500 Echocardiography system. Before sacrifice, electrocardiograms were measured in the female F344xBN in order to determine heart rhythm interval changes. Aging was associated with an increase in heart to body weight ratio, cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area, posterior wall thickening, and left ventricle chamber dilatation. Aging was associated with slight evidence of diastolic dysfunction. Alterations in heart rhythm intervals were associated with alterations in the spatial distribution of connexin 43. The incidence of arrhythmias was not different with age; however, valvular dysfunction was increased. These data suggest that aging in the female F344xBN rat heart is associated with changes in cardiac structure as well as function. Further investigation regarding other parameters of cardiac biochemistry and function is needed to better understand the normal compensated cardiovascular aging process in the female F344xBN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Fannin
- />Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Toxicology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
- />Center for Diagnostic Nanosystems, Marshall University, BBSC 241R, 1700 3rd Avenue, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755-1090 USA
| | - Kevin M. Rice
- />Center for Diagnostic Nanosystems, Marshall University, BBSC 241R, 1700 3rd Avenue, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755-1090 USA
- />Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
| | - Srininvas Thulluri
- />Center for Diagnostic Nanosystems, Marshall University, BBSC 241R, 1700 3rd Avenue, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755-1090 USA
| | - Lucy Dornon
- />Department of Cardiology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
| | - Ravi Kumar Arvapalli
- />Center for Diagnostic Nanosystems, Marshall University, BBSC 241R, 1700 3rd Avenue, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755-1090 USA
| | - Paulette Wehner
- />Department of Cardiology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
| | - Eric R. Blough
- />Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Toxicology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
- />Center for Diagnostic Nanosystems, Marshall University, BBSC 241R, 1700 3rd Avenue, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755-1090 USA
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Science Research, School of Pharmacy, Marshall University, Huntington, WV USA
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Zeynalov E, Rezvani N, Miyazaki C, Liu X, Littleton-Kearney MT. Reproductive senescence blunts response of estrogen receptor-α expression to estrogen treatment in rat post-ischemic cerebral microvessels. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102194. [PMID: 25010766 PMCID: PMC4092076 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies demonstrate that estrogen treatment improves cerebral blood flow in ischemic brain regions of young ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) may mediate estrogen's beneficial actions via its effects on the cerebral microvasculature. However, estrogen-derived benefit may be attenuated in aged, reproductively senescent (RS) rats. Our goal was to determine the effects of aging, estrogen deprivation and estrogen repletion with oral conjugated estrogens (CE) on postischemic cerebral microvascular protein expression of ER-α and ER-β. METHODS Fisher-344 (n = 37) female rats were randomly divided into the following groups: OVX, OVX CE-treated, RS untreated, and RS CE-treated. After 30 days pretreatment with CE (0.01 mg/kg) rats were subjected to 15 min. transient global cerebral ischemia. Non-ischemic naïve, OVX and RS rats were used as controls. Expression of ER-α and ER-β in isolated cortical cerebral microvessels (20 to 100 µm in diameter) was assessed using Western blot and immunohistochemistry techniques. RESULTS Age and reproductive status blunted nonischemic ER-α expression in microvessels of OVX rats (0.31 ± 0.05) and RS rats (0.33 ± 0.06) compared to naïve rats (0.45 ± 0.02). Postischemic microvascular expression of ER-α in OVX rats (0.01 ± 0.0) was increased by CE treatment (0.04 ± 0.01). Expression of ER-α in microvessels of RS rats (0.03 ± 0.02) was unaffected by CE treatment (0.01 ± 0.02). Western blot data are presented as a ratio of ER-α or ER-β proteins to β-actin and. Oral CE treatment had no effect on ER-β expression in postischemic microvessels of OVX and RS rats. Statistical analysis was performed by One-Way ANOVA and a Newman-Keuls or Student's post-hoc test. CONCLUSION Chronic treatment with CE increases ER-α but not ER-β expression in cerebral microvessels of OVX rats. Aging appears to reduce the normal ability of estrogen to increase ER-α expression in postischemic cerebral microvessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Zeynalov
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Niloofar Rezvani
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chikao Miyazaki
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Xiaoguang Liu
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Nishijima K, Tanaka S, Sakamoto SH, Kuwahara S, Ohno T, Kitajima S. Populations of follicles in F344/N rats during aging. Reprod Biol 2013; 13:145-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Korzick DH, Lancaster TS. Age-related differences in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury: effects of estrogen deficiency. Pflugers Arch 2013; 465:669-85. [PMID: 23525672 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-013-1255-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2013] [Revised: 02/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Despite conflicting evidence for the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy in cardioprotection of postmenopausal women, numerous studies have demonstrated reductions in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury following chronic or acute exogenous estradiol (E2) administration in adult male and female, gonad-intact and gonadectomized animals. It has become clear that ovariectomized adult animals may not accurately represent the combined effects of age and E2 deficiency on reductions in ischemic tolerance seen in the postmenopausal female. E2 is known to regulate the transcription of several cardioprotective genes. Acute, non-genomic E2 signaling can also activate many of the same signaling pathways recruited in cardioprotection. Alterations in cardioprotective gene expression or cardioprotective signal transduction are therefore likely to result within the context of aging and E2 deficiency and may help explain the reduced ischemic tolerance and loss of cardioprotection in the senescent female heart. Quantification of the mitochondrial proteome as it adapts to advancing age and E2 deficiency may also represent a key experimental approach to uncover proteins associated with disruptions in cardiac signaling contributing to age-associated declines in ischemic tolerance. These alterations have important ramifications for understanding the increased morbidity and mortality due to ischemic cardiovascular disease seen in postmenopausal females. Functional perturbations that occur in mitochondrial respiration and Ca(2+) sensitivity with age-associated E2 deficiency may also allow for the identification of alternative therapeutic targets for reducing I/R injury and treatment of the leading cause of death in postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna H Korzick
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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Lancaster TS, Jefferson SJ, Hunter JC, Lopez V, Van Eyk JE, Lakatta EG, Korzick DH. Quantitative proteomic analysis reveals novel mitochondrial targets of estrogen deficiency in the aged female rat heart. Physiol Genomics 2012; 44:957-69. [PMID: 22930739 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00184.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of myocardial infarction rises sharply at menopause, implicating a potential role for estrogen (E(2)) loss in age-related increases in ischemic injury. We aimed to identify quantitative changes to the cardiac mitochondrial proteome of aging females, based on the hypothesis that E(2) deficiency exacerbates age-dependent disruptions in mitochondrial proteins. Mitochondria isolated from left ventricles of adult (6 mo) and aged (24 mo) F344 ovary-intact or ovariectomized (OVX) rats were labeled with 8plex isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ; n = 5-6/group). Groups studied were adult, adult OVX, aged, and aged OVX. In vivo coronary artery ligation and in vitro mitochondrial respiration studies were also performed in a subset of rats. We identified 965 proteins across groups and significant directional changes in 67 proteins of aged and/or aged OVX; 32 proteins were unique to aged OVX. Notably, only six proteins were similarly altered in adult OVX (voltage-dependent ion channel 1, adenine nucleotide translocator 1, cytochrome c oxidase subunits VIIc and VIc, catalase, and myosin binding protein C). Proteins affected by aging were primarily related to cellular metabolism, oxidative stress, and cell death. The largest change occurred in monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), a source of oxidative stress. While acute MAO-A inhibition induced mild uncoupling in aged mitochondria, reductions in infarct size were not observed. Age-dependent alterations in mitochondrial signaling indicate a highly selective myocardial response to E(2) deficiency. The combined proteomic and functional approaches described here offer possibility of new protein targets for experimentation and therapeutic intervention in the aged female population.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Lancaster
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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Sharda DR, Miller-Lee JL, Kanski GM, Hunter JC, Lang CH, Kennett MJ, Korzick DH. Comparison of the agar block and Lieber-DeCarli diets to study chronic alcohol consumption in an aging model of Fischer 344 female rats. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2012; 66:257-63. [PMID: 22951285 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2012.08.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-menopausal women have a greater risk of developing alcoholic complications compared to age-matched men. Unfortunately, animal models of chronic ethanol consumption with estrogen deficiency are lacking. Here, we characterize the ability of the agar block and Lieber-DeCarli models of chronic ethanol consumption to produce elevated blood alcohol content (BAC) and liver pathology in the F344 postmenopausal animal model of aging. METHODS Adult (3 mo) and aged (18 mo) F344 ovary-intact or ovariectomized rats were administered ethanol for 14-20 weeks as follows: diet 1, standard chow access, 10% ethanol in drinking water, and 40% ethanol in agar blocks; diet 2, diet 1 plus low phytoestrogen chow (known to affect ethanol metabolism) for the final 4 weeks; diet 3, Lieber-DeCarli all liquid diet with 36% kcal ethanol. Control animals were matched isocalorically with dextrin. RESULTS For the agar block diet, average BAC was 13±4 mg/dL across groups. BAC was unaffected by reducing dietary phytoestrogen content (12±4 mg/dL), which is known to interfere with ethanol metabolism. Liver pathology was unaffected by the agar block diet. In contrast, the Lieber-DeCarli diet resulted in BAC of 45±5 mg/dL in conjunction with more severe hepatopathology.223 DISCUSSION We conclude that the Lieber-DeCarli diet produces greater BAC and hepatopathology to study the effects of chronic ethanol administration in the F344 postmenopausal rodent model of aging when compared to an ethanol agar block diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Sharda
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Jiang B, Sun K, Li M, Wang Y, Zhuang L, Zhang L, Wang Y, Liu X, Wu W, Guan S, Yang M, Li Y, Yu J. Study of Luan-Pao-Prescription on ovarian dysfunction in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 141:653-658. [PMID: 21933702 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.08.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Revised: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Luan-Pao-Prescription (LPP) has been clinically proven to be effective on infertility. In the present study we explored the improvement and underlying mechanism of LPP on ovarian dysfunction in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS 13 month old female rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: the Saline group, the LPP groups treated by low (1.67 g/kg), and high-dose (5 g/kg) LPP respectively, and the hormone group treated by pregnant mare gonadotrophin serum and chorionic gonadotrophin (PMSG/hCG). The estrous cycle was determined by daily observation of vaginal smears; serum estradiol and testosterone were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; ovarian morphology, ovary volume and fertility of female rats were all detected during the study. RESULTS During 21 days of LPP treatment, about 20% increase of rats with regular estrous cycle of 4-6 days was found, but no change was detected on serum estradiol and testosterone at the dose of 1.67 g/kg and 5 g/kg LPP. Both ovary index and uterus index were up-regulated significantly at the dose of 5 g/kg LPP, but no regulation on oviduct index, adrenal gland index, pancreatic gland index and spleen index was observed at the two LPP groups. 5 g/kg LPP increased total number of pregnant mothers and the offspring; however there are no offspring in PMSG/hCG group. The offspring exhibited similar body weight in each treatment, and no apparent malformation was found for the cubs. While PMSG/hCG treatment increased the ovary index, serum estradiol and testosterone concentration considerably, but no improvement was found on estrous cycle, oviduct index, uterus index, and reproduction. CONCLUSION Administration of LPP may have comparable benefits for ovarian dysfunction, but with fewer side effects. Oral LPP have a better overall influence on rats than PSMG/hCG; it may be more effective in improvement of estrous cycle, ovary function and reproduction.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Oral
- Animals
- Chorionic Gonadotropin/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Estradiol/blood
- Estrous Cycle/drug effects
- Female
- Fertility/drug effects
- Fertility Agents, Female/administration & dosage
- Fertility Agents, Female/pharmacology
- Gonadotropins, Equine/pharmacology
- Litter Size/drug effects
- Medicine, Chinese Traditional
- Ovary/drug effects
- Ovary/metabolism
- Ovary/physiopathology
- Plants, Medicinal
- Pregnancy
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Testosterone/blood
- Time Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohong Jiang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Effect of systemic kynurenine on cortical spreading depression and its modulation by sex hormones in rat. Exp Neurol 2012; 236:207-14. [PMID: 22587906 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2012.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Revised: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 05/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aura symptoms in migraine are most likely due to cortical spreading depression (CSD). CSD is favored by NMDA receptor activation and increased cortical excitability. The latter probably explains why migraine with aura may appear when estrogen levels are high, like during pregnancy. Kynurenic acid, a derivative of tryptophan metabolism, is an endogenous NMDA receptor antagonist whose cerebral concentrations can be augmented by systemic administration of its precursor L-kynurenine. OBJECTIVE To determine if exogenous administration of L-kynurenine is able to influence KCl-induced CSD in rat, if the effect is sex-dependent and if it differs in females between the phases of the estrous cycle. METHODS Adult Sprague-Dawley rats (n=8/group) received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of L-kynurenine (L-KYN, 300 mg/kg), L-KYN combined with probenecid (L-KYN+PROB) that increases cortical concentration of KYNA by blocking its excretion from the central nervous system, probenecid alone (PROB, 200 mg/kg) or NaCl. Cortical kynurenic acid concentrations were determined by HPLC (n=7). Thirty minutes after the injections, CSDs were elicited by application of 1M KCl over the occipital cortex and recorded by DC electrocorticogram. In NaCl and L-KYN groups, supplementary females were added and CSD frequency was analyzed respective to the phases of the estrous cycle determined by vaginal smears. RESULTS In both sexes, PROB, L-KYN and L-KYN+PROB increased cortical kynurenic acid level. PROB, L-KYN and L-KYN+PROB with increasing potency decreased CSD frequency in female rats, while in males such an effect was significant only for L-KYN+PROB. The inhibitory effect of L-KYN on CSD frequency in females was most potent in diestrus. CONCLUSION L-Kynurenine administration suppresses CSD, most likely by increasing kynurenic acid levels in the cortex. Females are more sensitive to this suppressive effect of L-kynurenine than males. These results emphasize the role of sex hormones in migraine and open interesting novel perspectives for its preventive treatment.
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Marino DJ. Age-specific absolute and relative organ weight distributions for Fischer 344 rats. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2012; 75:1484-1516. [PMID: 23116453 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2012.722520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The Fischer 344 (F344) rat has been the standard rat strain used in toxicology studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP). However, the numerous reports published to date on growth, survival, and tumor incidence have not included an overall compilation of organ weight data. Notably, dose-related organ weight effects are endpoints used by regulatory agencies to develop toxicity reference values (TRVs) for use in human health risk assessments. In addition, physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models, which utilize relative organ weights, are increasingly being used to develop TRVs. Because a compilation of organ weights for F344 rats could prove beneficial for TRV development and PBPK modeling, all available absolute and relative organ weight data for untreated control F344 rats were collected from NCI/NTP feed, drinking-water, and inhalation studies in order to develop age-specific distributions. Results showed that organ weights were collected more frequently at 2-wk (59 studies), 3-mo (148 studies), and 15-mo (38 studies) intervals than at other intervals and more frequently from feeding and inhalation than from drinking-water studies. Liver, right kidney, lung, heart, thymus, and brain weights were most frequently collected. From the collected data, the mean and standard deviation for absolute and relative organ weights were calculated. Findings showed age-related increases in absolute weights and decreases in relative weights for brain, liver, right kidney, lung, heart, thyroid, and right testis. The results suggest a general variability trend in absolute organ weights of brain < right testis < heart < right kidney < liver < lung < thymus < thyroid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale J Marino
- Conestoga-Rovers & Associates, Rochester, NY 14650-2136, USA.
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Number, size, conduction, and vasoconstrictor ability of unmyelinated fibers of the ovarian nerve in adult and aged rats. Auton Neurosci 2011; 164:6-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Revised: 04/22/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Zhuang XL, Fu YC, Xu JJ, Kong XX, Chen ZG, Luo LL. Effects of genistein on ovarian follicular development and ovarian life span in rats. Fitoterapia 2010; 81:998-1002. [PMID: 20600685 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2010.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2010] [Revised: 06/14/2010] [Accepted: 06/19/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Recently, studies reported that neonatal genistein treatment inhibited breakdown of oocyte nests and increased oocyte survival, resulting in multi-oocyte survival in adult mice. However, whether the inhibition effect in ovarian follicular development exists also in other stages during ovarian development (e.g. adult or climacteric) is unknown. So far, few studies have investigated the effect of genistein in adult or pre-menopausal ovarian follicular development and follicular reserves. We investigated ovarian follicular development in 4-month and 15-month-old rats after 4 weeks and 4 months treatment with genistein in a dose of 160 mg/kg d. Genistein-treated rats obtained a higher percentage of primordial follicles by 4 months of age and a greater number of surviving follicles at 15 months of age compared to a control group (P<0.05). In addition, vaginal cytology showed that age-dependent cessation of regular estrus was delayed for 2 months in the genistein-treated group than control group. These results suggest that genistein alters rat ovarian follicular development and increases the number of surviving follicles, which may prolong ovarian reproductive life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lan Zhuang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
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26
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Ichihashi M, Hasegawa M, Imahie H, Nishida A, Kitamura K. Effects of Nanpao, a Kampo medicine, on the decline in estrous cyclicity with advancing age in female rats, as measured by vaginal impedance methods. Exp Anim 2010; 59:85-93. [PMID: 20224172 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.59.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was designed to evaluate the time-dependent effects of Nanpao, a kampo medicine, on age-related changes in the estrous cycle of female rats, and to investigate the utility of measuring electrical impedance in the vagina (EIV) for studying transitional changes in the estrous cycle. Rats were allocated to 3 groups: control, Nanpao 30 mg/kg/day, and 100 mg/kg/day groups. EIV measurements and cytology samples were taken for 14 days at the age of 6 months before the initial treatment. After the start of the treatment, these data were collected at about monthly intervals until the age of 10 months in the same manner. Observations at the ages of 7 (weeks 2-3 of dosing) and 8 months (weeks 6-7 of dosing) showed that loss of a regular estrous cycle in the 100 mg/kg/day group was inhibited as compared to the control group. Moreover, at the ages of 9 (weeks 11-12 of dosing) and 10 months (weeks 17-18 of dosing), these effects were identified not only in the 100 mg/kg/day group, but also in the 30 mg/kg/day group. Since vaginal cytology and EIV gave almost concordant results as indicators of estrous cyclicity, we concluded that the measurement of EIV was capable of detecting time-dependent changes in the estrous cycle as well as observations of vaginal smears. A short period of Nanpao administration inhibited loss of regular estrous cycles, and the EIV method is a worthwhile approach to a more precise study of estrous cyclicity in rats exhibiting abnormal estrous cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Ichihashi
- Safety Research Laboratory, Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Osaka, Japan
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27
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Abstract
An increase in L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (LTCC) current is a prominent biomarker of brain aging and is believed to contribute to cognitive decline and vulnerability to neuropathologies. Studies examining age-related changes in LTCCs have focused primarily on males, although estrogen (17beta-estradiol, E2) affects calcium-dependent activities associated with cognition. Therefore, to better understand brain aging in females, the effects of chronic E2 replacement on LTCC current activity in hippocampal neurons of young and aged ovariectomized rats were determined. The zipper slice preparation was used to expose cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) pyramidal neurons for recording LTCC currents using the cell-attached patch-clamp technique. We found that an age-related increase in LTCC current in neurons from control animals was prevented by E2 treatment. In addition, in situ hybridization revealed that within stratum pyramidale of the CA1 area, mRNA expression of the Ca(v)1.2 LTCC subunit, but not the Ca(v)1.3 subunit, was decreased in aged E2-treated rats. Thus, the reported benefits of E2 on cognition and neuronal health may be attributed, at least in part, to its age-related decrease in LTCC current.
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28
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Reinwald S, Burr D. Review of nonprimate, large animal models for osteoporosis research. J Bone Miner Res 2008; 23:1353-68. [PMID: 18505374 PMCID: PMC2683153 DOI: 10.1359/jbmr.080516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2007] [Revised: 05/07/2008] [Accepted: 05/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Large animal models are required for preclinical prevention and intervention studies related to osteoporosis research. The challenging aspect of this requirement is that no single animal model exactly mimics the progression of this human-specific chronic condition. There are pros and cons associated with the skeletal, hormonal, and metabolic conditions of each species that influence their relevance and applicability to human physiology. Of all larger mammalian species, nonhuman primates (NHPs) are preeminent in terms of replicating important aspects of human physiology. However, NHPs are very expensive, putting them out of reach of the vast majority of researchers. Practical, cost-effective alternatives to NHPs are sought after among ungulate (porcine, caprine, and ovine) and canine species that are the focus of this review. The overriding caveat to using large lower-order species is to take the time in advance to understand and appreciate the limitations and strengths of each animal model. Under these circumstances, experiments can be strategically designed to optimize the potential of an animal to develop the cardinal features of postmenopausal bone loss and/or yield information of relevance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Reinwald
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA.
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29
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Macbeth AH, Scharfman HE, Maclusky NJ, Gautreaux C, Luine VN. Effects of multiparity on recognition memory, monoaminergic neurotransmitters, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Horm Behav 2008; 54:7-17. [PMID: 17927990 PMCID: PMC2441760 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 08/22/2007] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Recognition memory and anxiety were examined in nulliparous (NP: 0 litters) and multiparous (MP: 5-6 litters) middle-aged female rats (12 months old) to assess possible enduring effects of multiparity at least 3 months after the last litter was weaned. MP females performed significantly better than NP females on the non-spatial memory task, object recognition, and the spatial memory task, object placement. Anxiety as measured on the elevated plus maze did not differ between groups. Monoaminergic activity and levels were measured in prefrontal cortex, CA1 hippocampus, CA3 hippocampus, and olfactory bulb (OB). NP and MP females differed in monoamine concentrations in the OB only, with MP females having significantly greater concentrations of dopamine and metabolite DOPAC, norepinephrine and metabolite MHPG, and the serotonin metabolite 5-HIAA, as compared to NP females. These results indicate a long-term change in OB neurochemistry as a result of multiparity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was also measured in hippocampus (CA1, CA3, dentate gyrus) and septum. MP females had higher BDNF levels in both CA1 and septum; as these regions are implicated in memory performance, elevated BDNF may underlie the observed memory task differences. Thus, MP females (experiencing multiple bouts of pregnancy, birth, and pup rearing during the first year of life) displayed enhanced memory task performance but equal anxiety responses, as compared to NP females. These results are consistent with previous studies showing long-term changes in behavioral function in MP, as compared to NP, rats and suggest that alterations in monoamines and a neurotrophin, BDNF, may contribute to the observed behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbe H Macbeth
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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