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Yu H, Chen X, Du X, Chang Y, Sun S, Tang S, Du Q, Song W. Exploring the molecular mechanism of Chlorella vulgaris in response to androstenedione exposure based on genes continuously up-regulated in transcription analysis. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2024; 271:115996. [PMID: 38277974 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Androstenedione (ADSD) is one of the widely detected androgens in diverse aquatic environments. However, there were few reports on the molecular mechanism of Chlorella vulgaris exposure to ADSD. In our previous research, we have investigated the genes associated with chlorophyll metabolism in Chlorella vulgaris response to ADSD. In this study, we focus on continuously up-regulated genes to explore the mechanism underlying Chlorella vulgaris resistance to ADSD toxicity. Chlorella vulgaris was exposed to ADSD with five concentration gradients. The continuously up-regulated genes were enriched by Series Test of Cluster (STC) analysis and verified by qRT-PCR. Microalgae Super Oxidase Dimutase (SOD) and Microalgae Malonic dialdehyde (MDA), two indicators of oxidative stress, were determined by ELISA after exposure to ADSD. The results showed that ADSD can stimulate the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and lead to enlargement in the cell body of Chlorella vulgaris. In addition, steroid biosynthesis and oxidoreductase activity processes were consistently up-regulated upon exposure to ADSD. In conclusion, our study highlighted the crucial role of phenotypic modification, hormone synthesis, and redox mechanisms in protecting Chlorella vulgaris cells from the harmful effects of ADSD contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Yu
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Xue Chen
- School of Engineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Xinxin Du
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Yanhong Chang
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Shuang Sun
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Shaoyu Tang
- School of Engineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Qiuli Du
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China
| | - Wenlu Song
- School of Engineering, Jining University, Jining 273155, China.
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Badawy MT, Sobeh M, Xiao J, Farag MA. Androstenedione (a Natural Steroid and a Drug Supplement): A Comprehensive Review of Its Consumption, Metabolism, Health Effects, and Toxicity with Sex Differences. Molecules 2021; 26:6210. [PMID: 34684800 PMCID: PMC8539210 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26206210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Androstenedione is a steroidal hormone produced in male and female gonads, as well as in the adrenal glands, and it is known for its key role in the production of estrogen and testosterone. Androstenedione is also sold as an oral supplement, that is being utilized to increase testosterone levels. Simply known as "andro" by athletes, it is commonly touted as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. By boosting testosterone levels, it is thought to be an enhancer for athletic performance, build body muscles, reduce fats, increase energy, maintain healthy RBCs, and increase sexual performance. Nevertheless, several of these effects are not yet scientifically proven. Though commonly used as a supplement for body building, it is listed among performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) which is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, as well as the International Olympic Committee. This review focuses on the action mechanism behind androstenedione's health effects, and further side effects including clinical features, populations at risk, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and toxicokinetics. A review of androstenedione regulation in drug doping is also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa T. Badawy
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Mansour Sobeh
- AgroBioSciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, Ben-Guerir 43150, Morocco
| | - Jianbo Xiao
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, E-36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Mohamed A. Farag
- Pharmacognosy Department, College of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo P.B. 11562, Egypt
- Chemistry Department, School of Sciences Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Fox CW, Zhang L, Moeller BC, Garzo VG, Chang RJ, Duleba AJ. Ibuprofen inhibits key genes involved in androgen production in theca-interstitial cells. F S Sci 2021; 2:230-236. [PMID: 35199048 PMCID: PMC8862173 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effects of ibuprofen on androgen production, gene expression, and cell viability in rat theca-interstitial cells exposed to the proinflammatory stimuli interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). DESIGN Animal study. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS/ANIMALS Theca-interstitial cells were isolated from 30 day old female Sprague Dawley rats. INTERVENTIONS Theca cells were cultured with pro-inflammatory media containing IL-1β and LPS and compared with cells cultured in control media. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Androstenedione quantification was performed on conditioned cell culture medium using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Theca cell viability was assessed using PrestoBlue cell viability assay. The gene expression of Cyp17a1, Cyp11a1, and Hsd3b was analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Both proinflammatory stimuli IL-1β and LPS increased androstenedione concentration in cell culture medium, and these effects were mitigated with ibuprofen. Both inflammatory agents in addition increased the expression of key genes involved in androgen synthesis: Cyp17a1, Cyp11a1, and Hsd3b; the addition of ibuprofen to the culture medium inhibited these effects. Theca cell viability increased with IL-1β and LPS. Ibuprofen inhibited the IL-1β-mediated increase in cell viability but did not reverse the effects of LPS. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that many of the alterations induced by inflammatory stimuli in theca-interstitial cells are abrogated by the addition of ibuprofen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea W. Fox
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of South Carolina School of Medicine/Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina
| | - Lingzhi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California
| | - Benjamin C. Moeller
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - V. Gabriel Garzo
- Reproductive Partners Fertility Center-San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, California
| | - R. Jeffrey Chang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California
| | - Antoni J. Duleba
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California
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McFee RM, Romereim SM, Snider AP, Summers AF, Pohlmeier WE, Kurz SG, Cushman RA, Davis JS, Wood JR, Cupp AS. A high-androgen microenvironment inhibits granulosa cell proliferation and alters cell identity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 531:111288. [PMID: 33905753 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A naturally occurring bovine model with excess follicular fluid androstenedione (High A4), reduced fertility, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-like characteristics has been identified. We hypothesized High A4 granulosa cells (GCs) would exhibit altered cell proliferation and/or steroidogenesis. Microarrays of Control and High A4 GCs combined with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis indicated that High A4 GCs had cell cycle inhibition and increased expression of microRNAs that inhibit cell cycle genes. Granulosa cell culture confirmed that A4 treatment decreased GC proliferation, increased anti-Müllerian hormone, and increased mRNA for CTNNBIP1. Increased CTNNBIP1 prevents CTNNB1 from interacting with members of the WNT signaling pathway thereby inhibiting the cell cycle. Expression of CYP17A1 was upregulated in High A4 GCs presumably due to reduced FOS mRNA expression compared to Control granulosa cells. Furthermore, comparisons of High A4 GC with thecal and luteal cell transcriptomes indicated an altered cellular identity and function contributing to a PCOS-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee M McFee
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, P.O. Box 830905, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0905, USA
| | - Sarah M Romereim
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| | - Alexandria P Snider
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| | - Adam F Summers
- New Mexico State University, Animal and Range Sciences, Knox Hall Room 202, MSC 3-I Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - William E Pohlmeier
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| | - Scott G Kurz
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| | - Robert A Cushman
- USDA, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, P.O. Box 166, Clay Center, NE, 68933, USA
| | - John S Davis
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Olson Center for Women's Health, 983255 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-3255, USA; VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, 68105, USA
| | - Jennifer R Wood
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| | - Andrea S Cupp
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Animal Science, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA.
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Sallam MY, El-Gowilly SM, El-Mas MM. Cardiac and Brainstem Neuroinflammatory Pathways Account for Androgenic Incitement of Cardiovascular and Autonomic Manifestations in Endotoxic Male Rats. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 77:632-641. [PMID: 33852527 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Inconsistent reports are available on the role of testosterone in end-organ damage caused by endotoxemia. Here, pharmacologic, surgical, and molecular studies were employed to assess the testosterone modulation of cardiovascular, autonomic, and peripheral and central inflammatory derangements caused by endotoxemia. Studies were performed in conscious male rats preinstrumented with femoral indwelling catheters for the measurement of blood pressure and subjected to castration or pharmacologic interventions that interrupt the biosynthetic cascade of testosterone. Compared with the effects of lipopolysaccharide (10 mg/kg intravenously) in sham operated rats, 2-week castration reduced the lipopolysaccharide-evoked (1) falls in blood pressure, (2) decreases in time- and frequency-domain indices of heart rate variability, (3) shifts in spectral measures of cardiac sympathovagal balance toward parasympathetic dominance, and (4) increases in protein expressions of toll-like receptor-4 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in heart and medullary neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarius and rostral ventrolateral medulla. While the ameliorating actions of castration on endotoxic cardiovascular manifestations were maintained after testosterone replacement, the concomitant inflammatory signals were restored to near-sham levels. The favorable influences of castration on inflammatory and cardiovascular abnormalities of endotoxemia were replicated in intact rats pretreated with degarelix (gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor blocker) or finasteride (5α-reductase inhibitor) but not formestane (aromatase inhibitor). The data signifies the importance of androgens and its biosynthetic enzymes in cardiovascular and autonomic insults induced by the endotoxic inflammatory response. Clinically, the interruption of testosterone biosynthesis could offer a potential strategy for endotoxemia management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Y Sallam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt ; and
| | - Sahar M El-Gowilly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt ; and
| | - Mahmoud M El-Mas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt ; and
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the effect of androgens and estrogens on surtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). Methods: Real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of SIRT-1 expression over 48 hours (h) was performed in HAECs treated with various concentrations of dehydroepiandrostendione (DHEA), androstenedione and testosterone (androgens), estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3) (estrogens) to investigate the dose-dependency of time courses. The influence of high glucose on SIRT1 expression induced by the androgens and estrogens was also examined. Results: Dehydroepiandrostendione, androstenedione, and testosterone remarkably produced a dose-dependent increase in SIRT1 expression in the range of 10 to 20 μg/ml. High glucose (40mM) medium had significantly inhibitory effects on 10 μg/ml DHEA-induced SIRT1 expression (p=0.024). Estrone and E2, but not E3, caused a marked dose-dependent increase in SIRT1 expression from 10 to 20 μg/ml. Treatment with 20 mM or 40 mM glucose medium did not significantly inhibit E1- and E3-induced SIRT1 expression in control medium; however, both high glucose mediums significantly emphasized E2-induced SIRT1 expression in control medium (p=0.007, p=0.005). Conclusion: These results suggest that DHEA, androstenedione, testosterone, E1, and E2 definitely activate SIRT1 expression in HAECs. A high glucose medium is potent to inhibit the basal gene expression; however, it could not reduce powerful androgen- and estrogen-induced SIRT1 expression in HAECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Tsuchiya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya, Japan. E-mail.
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Fodouop Chegaing SP, Kengni ADM, Siddiqui M, Fowa AB, Gatsing D, Choudhary MI. Fungal transformation of norandrostenedione with Cunninghamella blakesleeana and anti-bacterial activity of the transformed products. Steroids 2020; 162:108679. [PMID: 32569733 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2020.108679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Although the discovery of antibiotics has decreased the spread and severity of infectious diseases, their uncontrolled use has lead to the emergence of bacterial resistance to existing chemotherapeutic agents. Bacterial disease thus remains a challenge for health authorities in worldwide and especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite their efficacy, the miss-use of medicinal plants for the treatment of infectious diseases couple to the farming and hunting activities has contribute enormously to the destruction of many medicinal plant species. In search of an alternative for new and effective agents against bacterial infection, norandrostenedion (19-nor-4-androsten-3,17-dione) (1), was biotransformed by Cunninghamella blakesleeana ATCC 8688A and yielded a new metabolite, 6α,10 β -dihydroxy-19-nor-4-androsten-3-one (2), together with three known compounds, 10 β -hydroxy-19-nor-4-androsten-3,17-dione (3), 6 β,10 β,17 β -trihydroxy-19-nor-4-androsten-3-one (4) and 10 β,17 β -dihydroxy-19-nor-4-androsten-3-one (5). Their structures were elucidated on the basis ofspectroscopic techniques: NMR analysis (1D and 2D) and HRIE-MS and by comparison with previously reported data. In addition, the agar diffusion method was used to evaluate the diameter of the inhibition zone and INT colorimetric assay for MIC values. All metabolites obtained showed a potent and varied activity against tested bacteria. These results support the uses of biotransformation to develop new antimicrobial compounds for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon Pierre Fodouop Chegaing
- Research Unit of Microbiology and Antimicrobial Substances, Department of Biochemistry, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon; Research Unit of Metabolic and Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundéré, P.O. Box 454, Ngaoundéré, Cameroon; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan.
| | - Alex Doris Mboussaah Kengni
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon; Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Mahwish Siddiqui
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Alain Bertrand Fowa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Donatien Gatsing
- Research Unit of Metabolic and Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundéré, P.O. Box 454, Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
| | - M Iqbal Choudhary
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
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Suzuki H, Ozaki Y, Ijiri S, Gen K, Kazeto Y. 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 12a responsible for testicular 11-ketotestosterone synthesis in the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 198:105550. [PMID: 31778803 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The production of 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), an important steroid hormone in piscine spermatogenesis, is regulated by the pituitary gonadotropins [Gths: follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh) and luteinizing hormone (Lh)] and it is synthesized by catalytic reactions involving several steroidogenic enzymes. Among these enzymes, the role of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (Hsd17bs) that exhibited 17-ketosteroid reducing activity (17KSR activity) responsible for 11KT synthesis is still poorly understood. In the present study, for the deeper understanding of testicular 11KT biosynthesis, we first investigated the steroidogenic pathway to produce 11KT in Japanese eel testis. In vitro incubation of the testis with androstenedione (A4) and the subsequent analysis of the metabolites by thin-layer chromatography indicated that 11KT was synthesized from A4 via 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4) and 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4), which indicated that the steroidogenic enzyme exhibiting the 17KSR activity responsible for converting 11KA4 to 11KT is crucial for 11KT production. Subsequently, cDNAs encoding three candidate enzymes, Hsd17b type3 (Hsd17b3), Hsd17b type12a (Hsd17b12a), and 20β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type2 (Hsd20b2), potentially with the 17KSR activity were isolated and characterized in the Japanese eel. The isolated hsd17b3, hsd17b12a, and hsd20b2 cDNAs putatively encoded 308, 314, and 327 amino acid residues with high homology to those of other vertebrate counterparts, respectively. The Hsd17b3, Hsd17b12a, and Hsd20b2 expressed either in HEK293T or in Hepa-E1 converted 11KA4 to 11KT. Tissue-distribution analysis by quantitative real time PCR revealed that hsd17b12a and hsd20b2 mRNAs were detected in the testis, while hsd17b3 mRNA was not detectable. Furthermore, we examined the effects of Gths on the 17KSR activity and the expression of the candidate genes in the immature testis. The 17KSR activity was upregulated by administration of Gths. Furthermore, only expression of hsd17b12a among three candidates was upregulated by Gths as well as the 17KSR activity. These findings strongly suggested that Hsd17b12a is one of the enzymes with 17KSR activity responsible for 11KT synthesis in the testis of Japanese eel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Suzuki
- Graduate School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan; National Research Institute of Aquaculture, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 224-1 Hiruda, Tamaki, Watarai, Mie 519-0423, Japan.
| | - Yuichi Ozaki
- National Research Institute of Aquaculture, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 224-1 Hiruda, Tamaki, Watarai, Mie 519-0423, Japan.
| | - Shigeho Ijiri
- Division of Marine Life Sciences, Graduate School of Fisheries Sciences, Hokkaido University, Hakodate, Hokkaido 041-8611, Japan.
| | - Koichiro Gen
- Seikai National Fisheries Research Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 1551-8 Taira-machi, Nagasaki 851-2213, Japan.
| | - Yukinori Kazeto
- National Research Institute of Aquaculture, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Tsuiura, Kamiura, Saiki, Oita 879-2602, Japan.
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du Toit T, Swart AC. The 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione pathway and C11-oxy C 21 backdoor pathway are active in benign prostatic hyperplasia yielding 11keto-testosterone and 11keto-progesterone. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 196:105497. [PMID: 31626910 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In clinical approaches to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa), steroidogenesis or the disruption thereof is the main thrust in treatments restricting active androgen production. Extensive studies have been undertaken focusing on testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). However, the adrenal C11-oxy C19 steroid, 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4), also contributes to the active androgen pool in the prostate microenvironment, and while it has been shown to impact castration resistant prostate cancer, the C11-oxy C19 steroids together with the C11-oxy C21 steroids have not been studied in BPH. The study firstly investigated the metabolism of these adrenal steroids in the BPH-1 model. Comprehensive profiles identified 11keto-testosterone as the predominant active androgen in the metabolism of the C11-oxy C19 steroids, and we identified, for the first time, 11β-hydroxy-5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol, a novel steroid in the 11OHA4-pathway. Analysis of the inactivation and reactivation of the metabolites showed that DHT is more readily inactivated than 11keto-dihydrotestosterone (11KDHT). The conversion of 11β-hydroxyprogesterone (11βOHPROG) yielded 11keto-progesterone (11KPROG), while the latter yielded 11keto-dihydroprogesterone (11KDHPROG). BPH tissue analysis identified high levels of 11β-hydroxyandrosterone (4-14 ng/g) and 11keto-androsterone (9-160 ng/g), together with androstenedione (A4; ∼7.5 ng/g). The major C11-oxy C21 steroids detected were 11βOHPROG (∼46 ng/g), 11KPROG (∼130 ng/g) as well as 11KDHPROG (∼282 ng/g). While circulatory 11βOHPROG was detected below the limit of quantification, 11KPROG and 11KDHPROG were detected at 6 and 8.5 nmol/L, respectively. Glucuronide derivatives of both 11KPROG and pregnanetriol were also detected. 11OHA4 was the major free androgen in circulation at 85.9 nmol/L, ±12-fold higher than A4, together with 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol quantified at 69.3 nmol/L. Circulatory C11-oxy C19 steroids levels were also significantly higher (8-fold) than the C11-oxy C21 steroid levels, while the former were similar to the C19 steroid levels, in contrast to levels in PCa. The study highlights the contribution of adrenal C11-oxy steroids to the androgen pool in BPH underscoring their limited reactivation and elimination, and significant inter-individual variations regarding steroid levels and conjugation. Targeted steroid metabolome analysis is critical to understanding prostate steroidogenesis and disease progression, and analysis of circulatory C11-oxy C19 and C11-oxy C21 steroids, together with intraprostatic levels, add to our current understanding of BPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therina du Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Amanda C Swart
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.
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Cheboub A, Regouat N, Djidjik R, Slimani A, Hadj-Bekkouche F. Short-term aromatase inhibition induces prostatic alterations in adult wistar rat: A biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical study. Acta Histochem 2019; 121:151441. [PMID: 31522738 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.151441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the effects of estrogen reduction on amyloid deposition, some lipid metabolism and oxidative stress markers, PSA-like production and p63 expression in the prostate of the adult rat. METHODS Aromatase inhibitor: Formestane (4-OHA), was administrated to male rats, at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg b.w./day, for 10 days. The control group (CONT) received the same volume of placebo injection (NaCl 0.9%). RESULTS 4-OHA treatment induced a significant accumulation of intraprostatic cholesterol (138.90 ± 17.64 vs 85.12 ± 2.87, p = 0.01); against an insignificant diminution of malondialdehyde (412.6 ± 54.35 vs 842.70 ± 336.50, p > 0.05) and glutathione (2.40 ± 0.23 vs 3.65 ± 0.88, p > 0.05). This was associated with a significant decrease of nitric oxide (31.76 ± 7.07 vs 179.40 ± 58.35, p = 0.024). Additionally, 4-OHA significantly increased the intraprostatic production of PSA-like (11.12 ± 2.78 vs 3.91 ± 0.43, p = 0.043). The prostatic histology revealed an amyloid deposition, in all prostatic lobes and a smooth muscle layer growth (p < 0.05); especially significant in the dorsal and lateral lobes. Theses lobes manifested a basal cells proliferation, with a 3-fold increase of p63 expression (p < 0.001). The ventral lobe presented epithelial atrophy (37.80 ± 16.20 vs 167.60 ± 5.16, p < 0.05); with occasional and significant proliferative foci (247.00 ± 9.573 vs 167.60 ± 5.16 p < 0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Aromatase inhibition, in the adult male rat, alters the prostatic function by reducing nitric oxide availability and inducing amyloid deposition along with limiting the differentiation of basal cells, through a lobe-specific p63-overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Cheboub
- Faculty of Biology Sciences, University of Sciences and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algeria.
| | - Nadia Regouat
- Faculty of Biology Sciences, University of Sciences and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algeria
| | - Reda Djidjik
- Immunology Service of Isaad Hassani-Beni Messous Hospital, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Assia Slimani
- Pathological Anatomy Service of Isaad Hassani-Beni Messous Hospital, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Fatima Hadj-Bekkouche
- Faculty of Biology Sciences, University of Sciences and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algeria
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11
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Keating N, Zeak N, Smith SS. Pubertal hormones increase hippocampal expression of α4βδ GABA A receptors. Neurosci Lett 2019; 701:65-70. [PMID: 30742936 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
CA1 hippocampal expression of α4βδ GABAA receptors (GABARs) increases at the onset of puberty in female mice, an effect dependent upon the decline in hippocampal levels of the neurosteroid THP (3α-OH-5α-pregnan-20-one) which occurs at this time. The present study further characterized the mechanisms underlying α4βδ expression, assessed in vivo. Blockade of pubertal levels of 17β-estradiol (E2) (formestane, 0.5 mg/kg, i.p. 3 d) reduced α4 and δ expression by 75-80% (P < 0.05) in CA1 hippocampus of female mice, assessed using Western blot techniques. Conversely, E2 administration increased α4 and δ expression by 50-100% in adults, an effect enhanced by more than 2-fold by concomitant administration of the 5α-reductase blocker finasteride (50 mg/kg, i.p., 3d, P < 0.05), suggesting that both declining THP levels and increasing E2 levels before puberty trigger α4βδ expression. This effect was blocked by ICI 182,780 (20 mg/kg, s.c., 3 d), a selective blocker of E2 receptor-α (ER-α). These results suggest that both the rise in circulating levels of E2 and the decline in hippocampal THP levels at the onset of puberty trigger maximal levels of α4βδ expression in the CA1 hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Keating
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Nicole Zeak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Sheryl S Smith
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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12
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Hou LP, Shu H, Lin LL, Xu SY, Wu YX, Rong XJ, Hu JJ, Song LY, Liang YQ, Chen HX, Ying GG, Tian CE. Modulation of transcription of genes related to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axes in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos/larvae by androstenedione. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2018; 156:403-408. [PMID: 29587208 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effects of Androstenodione (AED) on the transcriptional expression of genes involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axes in the zebrafish embryos/larvae. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0, 4.0, 45.0, 487.0, and 980.0 ng/L of AED from the day of fertilization to 144 h post fertilization (hpf), during which the transcriptional profiles of key genes related to the HPG and HPA axes were examined daily using quantitative real-time PCR. The AED exposure significantly up-regulated several receptor signaling pathways and the key genes involved in various steps of the steroidogenic pathways were also affected. In addition, the AED exposure could significantly modulate the transcriptional profiles of the other target genes related to hypothalamic and pituitary hormones. The findings of this study suggest that AED, at environmentally relevant concentrations, affects the adrenal endocrine systems and the reproduction of zebrafish by interrupting the HPG and HPA axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ping Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Hu Shu
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China.
| | - Le-le Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Si-Yuan Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Yan-Xia Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Xiu-Jun Rong
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Jun-Jie Hu
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Li-Ying Song
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China
| | - Yan-Qiu Liang
- Faculty of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjian 524088, PR China
| | - Hong-Xing Chen
- The Environmental Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Environmental Theoretical Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, PR China; The Environmental Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Environmental Theoretical Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Chang-En Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, PR China.
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13
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Król J, Hliwa P, Polewacz A, Stabińska A, Dobosz S, Ocalewicz K. Effect of 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione on European whitefish Coregonus lavaretus (Linnaeus, 1758). Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 184:187-195. [PMID: 28760664 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The goal of the present research was to evaluate the efficiency of 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (OHA) applied in the diet to achieve sex reversal in the European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus). At 32day post-hatching, fish were reared in four groups: fish fed with 10ppm of OHA (10 OHA), fish fed with 20ppm of OHA (20 OHA), fish fed without OHA (C) and fish fed without OHA and reared in the water from 20 OHA group (R). The experimental groups were conducted in separate recirculation systems and the first phase of the experiment lasted 63days. For the histological analysis of the gonads, fish from all groups were reared without OHA treatment for an additional 91days (second phase). At the end of the first phase of the experiment, survival of the whitefish ranged from 34.5±11.1% to 51.5±7.3%. The final body weight and coefficient of variation in the weight ranged from 5.6±1.2g to 6.9±1.5g and from 21.5 to 22.7%, respectively. No negative effects of OHA treatment on the growth and the survival of the whitefish were found. Six histological categories of the whitefish gonads were observed. Apart from the typical ovaries and testes, two types of the intersexual gonads (ovotestis and testis-ova) and two types of the sterile-altered gonads were distinguished. No gonadal females were found among fish from any of OHA groups. Gonadal males constituted of 60% and 50% of the fish from 10 OHA and 20 OHA groups, respectively. Intersexes were observed in all groups with the highest proportion found among fish from R variant. Rate of sterile individuals in 10 OHA and 20 OHA groups was 17% and 30%, respectively. The proportion of fish with normal testes to fish with other types of gonad varied from 0.43:1 to 1.5:1 with the higher ratio observed in both OHA groups. Lack of the females among fish from OHA groups suggested OHA affected growth and development of ovaries in the whitefish. However, a high percentage of the sterile fish in both OHA treated groups indicated application of lower doses of OHA for masculinization of the whitefish in the further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarosław Król
- Department of Ichthyology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Piotr Hliwa
- Department of Ichthyology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Adam Polewacz
- Department of Lake and River Fisheries, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Stabińska
- Department of Ichthyology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Stefan Dobosz
- Department of Salmonid Research in Rutki, Inland Fisheries Institute in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Konrad Ocalewicz
- Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Poland
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14
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Mali PV, Gramapurohit NP. Are sex steroids essential for gonadal differentiation of the ornate frog, Microhyla ornata? Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 233:63-72. [PMID: 27181751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge about sensitivities and responses of amphibian larvae to sex steroids and the chemicals alike is the first step towards understanding and assessing the effect of diverse chemicals that interfere with gonadal development and other endocrine functions. Herein, we used Microhyla ornata to determine the role of sex steroids on its gonad differentiation and sex ratio. Our results show that the exposure to increasing concentrations of estradiol-17β throughout larval development did not affect gonad differentiation resulting in 1:1 sex ratio at metamorphosis. But, females emerging from estradiol-17β treatment had larger ovaries with larger sized follicles. Further, testes of some males contained lumens, the number of which was dose dependent. Similarly, exposure to testosterone propionate had negligible effects on gonad differentiation. However, the mean diameter of the largest follicles was smaller in treated ovaries. Treatment of tadpoles with tamoxifen had no effect on gonad differentiation and ovary development while testicular development was accelerated at the highest concentration. Similarly, treatment of tadpoles with cyproterone acetate had little effect on gonad differentiation as well as development, hence the sex ratios at the end of metamorphosis. Further, in tadpoles exposed to increasing concentrations of formestane, gonad differentiation was normal resulting in 1:1 sex ratio. Thus, in M. ornata, both estradiol and testosterone are essential for the development of ovaries and testes respectively but, they are not critical to gonadal differentiation. Hence, the effects of sex steroids and other endocrine disrupting chemicals could be species-specific; different species may have differential sensitivities to such chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- P V Mali
- Department of Zoology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411 007, India
| | - N P Gramapurohit
- Department of Zoology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411 007, India.
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15
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Yahr P. Two aromatase inhibitors inhibit the ability of a third to promote mating in male rats. Horm Behav 2015; 75:41-4. [PMID: 26232614 PMCID: PMC4648640 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Aromatase, the enzyme that aromatizes androstenedione (A) to estrone and testosterone (T) to estradiol (E), affects androgen control of male sex behavior in many vertebrates. In male monkeys, rats and quail, E mimics the ability of T to promote mating, and aromatase inhibitors block mating induced by T but not E. Aromatase inhibitors include androgens with different A-rings than T and A, e.g., 1,4,6-androstatriene-3,17-dione (ATD), azoles, e.g., fadrozole, and androgens α-halogenated at carbon 6, e.g., 6α-bromoA, 6α-fluoroA and 6α-fluoroT. 6α-FluoroT is the only 6α-halogenated androgen studied in regard to mating. It promotes mating in male rats and quail and was studied, before it was known to inhibit aromatase, because it cannot be aromatized yet has the same A-ring as T. 6α-FluoroT might promote mating by binding estrogen receptors (ER) directly, i.e., unassisted, or by metabolism to an androgen that binds ER. Since neither process would require aromatase, this study tested both hypotheses by determining how mating induced in castrated male rats by 6α-fluoroT is affected by ATD and fadrozole. Both aromatase inhibitors inhibited the effects of 6α-fluoroT on mating. Thus, 6α-fluoroT does not promote mating by direct ER binding or metabolism to another androgen. Since aromatase underlies a process in which 6α-fluoroT, unlike most nonaromatizable androgens, mimics T effects on male sex behavior, the process must involve a feature that 6α-fluoroT shares with T but not other nonaromatizable androgens. A-ring structure is a candidate. A hypothesis is also offered for how aromatase may participate without aromatizing the androgen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Yahr
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4550, United States.
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16
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Mennenga SE, Koebele SV, Mousa AA, Alderete TJ, Tsang CWS, Acosta JI, Camp BW, Demers LM, Bimonte-Nelson HA. Pharmacological blockade of the aromatase enzyme, but not the androgen receptor, reverses androstenedione-induced cognitive impairments in young surgically menopausal rats. Steroids 2015; 99:16-25. [PMID: 25159107 PMCID: PMC4398574 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2014.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Androstenedione, the main circulating ovarian hormone present after menopause, has been shown to positively correlate with poor spatial memory in an ovary-intact rodent model of follicular depletion, and to impair spatial memory when administered exogenously to surgically menopausal ovariectomized rats. Androstenedione can be converted directly to estrone via the aromatase enzyme, or to testosterone. The current study investigated the hormonal mechanism underlying androstenedione-induced cognitive impairments. Young adult ovariectomized rats were given either androstenedione, androstenedione plus the aromatase inhibitor anastrozole to block conversion to estrone, androstenedione plus the androgen receptor blocker flutamide to block androgen receptor activity, or vehicle treatment, and were then administered a battery of learning and memory maze tasks. Since we have previously shown that estrone administration to ovariectomized rats impaired cognition, we hypothesized that androstenedione's conversion to estrone underlies, in part, its negative cognitive impact. Here, androstenedione administration impaired spatial reference and working memory. Further, androstenedione did not induce memory deficits when co-administered with the aromatase inhibitor, anastrozole, whereas pharmacological blockade of the androgen receptor failed to block the cognitive impairing effects of androstenedione. Anastrozole alone did not impact performance on any cognitive measure. The current data support the tenet that androstenedione impairs memory through its conversion to estrone, rather than via actions on the androgen receptor. Studying the effects of aromatase and estrogen metabolism is critical to elucidating how hormones impact women's health across the lifespan, and results hold important implications for understanding and optimizing the hormone milieu from the many endogenous and exogenous hormone exposures across the lifetime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Mennenga
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
| | - Stephanie V Koebele
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
| | - Abeer A Mousa
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | - Tanya J Alderete
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | - Candy W S Tsang
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | - Jazmin I Acosta
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
| | - Bryan W Camp
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
| | - Laurence M Demers
- The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, The M. S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Heather A Bimonte-Nelson
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States.
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17
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Hengevoss J, Piechotta M, Müller D, Hanft F, Parr MK, Schänzer W, Diel P. Combined effects of androgen anabolic steroids and physical activity on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 150:86-96. [PMID: 25797375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Analysing effects of pharmaceutical substances and training on feedback mechanisms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis may be helpful to quantify the benefit of strategies preventing loss of muscle mass, and in the fight against doping. In this study we analysed combined effects of anabolic steroids and training on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Therefore intact male Wistar rats were dose-dependently treated with metandienone, estradienedione and the selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) S-1. In serum cortisol, testosterone, 17β-estradiol (E2), prolactin, inhibin B, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and thyroxine (T4) concentrations were determined. Six human volunteers were single treated with 1-androstenedione. In addition abusing and clean body builders were analysed. Serum concentrations of inhibin B, IGF-1, cortisol, prolactin, T4, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), testosterone and LH were determined. In rats, administration of metandienone, estradienedione and S-1 resulted in an increase of muscle fiber diameter. Metandienone and estradienedione but not S-1 administration significantly decreases LH and inhibin B serum concentration. Administration of estradienedione resulted in an increase of E2 and S-1 in an increase of cortisol. Single administration of 1-androstenedione in humans decreased cortisol and inhibin B serum concentrations. LH was not affected. In abusing body builders a significantly decrease of LH, TSH and inhibin B and an increase of prolactin, IGF-1 and T4 was detected. In clean body builders only T4 and TSH were affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Hengevoss
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Sports Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Marion Piechotta
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Dennis Müller
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Sports Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Fabian Hanft
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Sports Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Maria Kristina Parr
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Wilhelm Schänzer
- Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Patrick Diel
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Sports Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany.
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18
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Mohareb RM, Zaki MY, Abbas NS. Synthesis, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer evaluations of thiazole, thiophene, pyridine and pyran derivatives derived from androstenedione. Steroids 2015; 98:80-91. [PMID: 25759119 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The reaction of androstenedione with bromine gave the 16-bromo derivative 2. The latter reacted with either cyanothioacetamide or thiourea to give the 2-cyanomethylthiazole derivative 4 and the 2-aminothiazole derivative 13. Compound 4 and 13 were used underwent some condensation, coupling and heterocyclization reactions to give thiophene, pyridine and pyran derivatives. The anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer evaluations of the newly synthesized products were evaluated and the results showed that 23f showed the maximum antiulcer activity. In addition, toxicity of the most active compounds was studied against shrimp larvae and showed that compounds 2, 23c and 23f showed non-toxicity against the tested organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafat M Mohareb
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Mayssoune Y Zaki
- National Organization for Drug Control & Research (NODCAR), P.O. 29, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nermeen S Abbas
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Taibah University, Saudi Arabia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
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19
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Upreti R, Naredo G, Faqehi AMM, Hughes KA, Stewart LH, Walker BR, Homer NZM, Andrew R. Simultaneous pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis of 5α-reductase inhibitors and androgens by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Talanta 2015; 131:728-35. [PMID: 25281165 PMCID: PMC4196769 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2014.07.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer can be treated with the 5α-reductase inhibitors, finasteride and dutasteride, when pharmacodynamic biomarkers are useful in assessing response. A novel method was developed to measure the substrates and products of 5α-reductases (testosterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), androstenedione) and finasteride and dutasteride simultaneously by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, using an ABSciex QTRAP(®) 5500, with a Waters Acquity™ UPLC. Analytes were extracted from serum (500 µL) via solid-phase extraction (Oasis(®) HLB), with (13)C3-labelled androgens and d9-finasteride included as internal standards. Analytes were separated on a Kinetex C18 column (150 × 3 mm, 2.6 µm), using a gradient run of 19 min. Temporal resolution of analytes from naturally occurring isomers and mass +2 isotopomers was ensured. Protonated molecular ions were detected in atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation mode and source conditions optimised for DHT, the least abundant analyte. Multiple reaction monitoring was performed as follows: testosterone (m/z 289 → 97), DHT (m/z 291 → 255), androstenedione (m/z 287 → 97), dutasteride (m/z 529 → 461), finasteride (m/z 373 → 317). Validation parameters (intra- and inter-assay precision and accuracy, linearity, limits of quantitation) were within acceptable ranges and biological extracts were stable for 28 days. Finally the method was employed in men treated with finasteride or dutasteride; levels of DHT were lowered by both drugs and furthermore the substrate concentrations increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Upreti
- Endocrinology, University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Gregorio Naredo
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Abdullah M M Faqehi
- Endocrinology, University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Katherine A Hughes
- Endocrinology, University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Laurence H Stewart
- Department of Urology, NHS Lothian, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, United Kingdom.
| | - Brian R Walker
- Endocrinology, University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom; Mass Spectrometry Core, Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Natalie Z M Homer
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Ruth Andrew
- Endocrinology, University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom; Mass Spectrometry Core, Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, Queen׳s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
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20
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Rechoum Y, Rovito D, Iacopetta D, Barone I, Andò S, Weigel NL, O'Malley BW, Brown PH, Fuqua SAW. AR collaborates with ERα in aromatase inhibitor-resistant breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2014; 147:473-85. [PMID: 25178514 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-014-3082-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) is an attractive target in breast cancer because of its frequent expression in all the molecular subtypes, especially in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive luminal breast cancers. We have previously shown a role for AR overexpression in tamoxifen resistance. We engineered ER-positive MCF-7 cells to overexpress aromatase and AR (MCF-7 AR Arom cells) to explore the role of AR in aromatase inhibitor (AI) resistance. Androstendione (AD) was used as a substrate for aromatization to estrogen. The nonsteroidal AI anastrazole (Ana) inhibited AD-stimulated growth and ER transcriptional activity in MCF-7 Arom cells, but not in MCF-7 AR Arom cells. Enhanced activation of pIGF-1R and pAKT was found in AR-overexpressing cells, and their inhibitors restored sensitivity to Ana, suggesting that these pathways represent escape survival mechanisms. Sensitivity to Ana was restored with AR antagonists, or the antiestrogen fulvestrant. These results suggest that both AR and ERα must be blocked to restore sensitivity to hormonal therapies in AR-overexpressing ERα-positive breast cancers. AR contributed to ERα transcriptional activity in MCF-7 AR Arom cells, and AR and ERα co-localized in AD + Ana-treated cells, suggesting cooperation between the two receptors. AR-mediated resistance was associated with a failure to block ER transcriptional activity and enhanced up-regulation of AR and ER-responsive gene expression. Clinically, it may be necessary to block both AR and ERα in patients whose tumors express elevated levels of AR. In addition, inhibitors to the AKT/IGF-1R signaling pathways may provide alternative approaches to block escape pathways and restore hormone sensitivity in resistant breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassine Rechoum
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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21
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Makita M, Miyano T. Steroid hormones promote bovine oocyte growth and connection with granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2014; 82:605-12. [PMID: 24985562 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Revised: 05/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Many approaches have been investigated for growing oocytes in vitro in mammals. To support oocyte growth in vitro, the culture systems must meet certain conditions for maintaining connections between oocytes and surrounding granulosa cells. The aims of this study were to determine the effects of combinations of 17β-estradiol (E2) and androstenedione (A4) on in vitro growth of bovine oocytes and to determine the number of connections between the oocyte and granulosa cells. Oocyte-granulosa cell complexes (OGCs) collected from early antral follicles (0.4-0.7 mm in diameter) were cultured for 14 days in a medium with different concentrations of E2 and A4, either alone or in combinations. We then assessed the number of transzonal projections (TZPs), which extend from granulosa cells through the zona pellucida to the oolemma. During in vitro growth culture, OGC structures were maintained in the medium with steroid hormones. The mean diameter of oocytes grown in the medium with both E2 and A4 was increased from 95.8 μm to around 120 μm, larger than oocytes grown without steroid hormones (109.9 μm) and similar in size to in vivo fully grown oocytes (119.4 μm) from 4- to 6-mm antral follicles. In subsequent in vitro maturation culture (22 hours), 30% (12 of 40) and 34% (14 of 41) of oocytes grown with E2 or A4 alone, respectively, matured to metaphase II; meanwhile, oocytes grown with a combination of E2 and A4 matured to metaphase II at a high rate (58%, 23 of 40). Growing oocytes isolated from early antral follicles had many uniformly distributed TZPs throughout the zona pellucida. After 14 days of culture, there was a significant decrease in the number of TZPs in oocytes grown without steroid hormones, whereas the number of TZPs was maintained in oocytes grown with steroid hormones. In particular, oocytes grown with E2 alone or with a combination of E2 and A4 had numbers of TZPs similar to oocytes before growth culture. In conclusion, a combination of E2 and A4 maintained the connections between oocytes and granulosa cells during in vitro growth culture of bovine oocytes for 14 days, resulting in the complete oocyte growth and the acquisition of meiotic competence in more than half the oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Makita
- Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Takashi Miyano
- Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
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22
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Fu D, Lv X, Hua G, He C, Dong J, Lele SM, Li DWC, Zhai Q, Davis JS, Wang C. YAP regulates cell proliferation, migration, and steroidogenesis in adult granulosa cell tumors. Endocr Relat Cancer 2014; 21:297-310. [PMID: 24389730 PMCID: PMC4222524 DOI: 10.1530/erc-13-0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway has been implicated as a conserved regulator of organ size in both Drosophila and mammals. Yes-associated protein (YAP), the central component of the Hippo signaling cascade, functions as an oncogene in several malignancies. Ovarian granulosa cell tumors (GCT) are characterized by enlargement of the ovary, excess production of estrogen, a high frequency of recurrence, and the potential for malignancy and metastasis. Whether the Hippo pathway plays a role in the pathogenesis of GCT is unknown. This study was conducted to examine the expression of YAP in human adult GCTs and to determine the role of YAP in the proliferation and steroidogenesis of GCT cells. Compared with age-matched normal human ovaries, GCT tissues exhibited higher levels of YAP expression. YAP protein was predominantly expressed in the nucleus of tumor cells, whereas the non-tumor ovarian stromal cells expressed very low levels of YAP. YAP was also expressed in cultured primary human granulosa cells and in KGN and COV434 GCT cell lines. siRNA-mediated knockdown of YAP in KGN cells resulted in a significant reduction in cell proliferation (P<0.001). Conversely, overexpression of wild type YAP or a constitutively active YAP (YAP1) mutant resulted in a significant increase in KGN cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, YAP knockdown reduced FSH-induced aromatase (CYP19A1) protein expression and estrogen production in KGN cells. These results demonstrate that YAP plays an important role in the regulation of GCT cell proliferation, migration, and steroidogenesis. Targeting the Hippo/YAP pathway may provide a novel therapeutic approach for GCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Fu
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - Xiangmin Lv
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - Guohua Hua
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Chunbo He
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - Jixin Dong
- The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - Subodh M. Lele
- Department of Pathology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - David Wan-Cheng Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
| | - Qiongli Zhai
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - John S. Davis
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Omaha Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Omaha NE 68105
| | - Cheng Wang
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
- The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198
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23
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Ofude M, Mizokami A, Kumaki M, Izumi K, Konaka H, Kadono Y, Kitagawa Y, Shin M, Zhang J, Keller ET, Namiki M. Repression of cell proliferation and androgen receptor activity in prostate cancer cells by 2'-hydroxyflavanone. Anticancer Res 2013; 33:4453-4461. [PMID: 24123015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of the development of castration-resistant from hormone-naïve prostate cancer is an important issue in maintaining the quality of life of the patients. We explored the effect of 2'-hydroxyflavanone on proliferation and androgen responsiveness using prostate cancer cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS To investigate the effect of 2'-hydroxyflavanone on proliferation, prostate cancer cells were treated with 2'-hydroxyflavanone. Androgen-responsiveness in LNCaP cells was confirmed by luciferase assay after transfection of luciferase reporter driven by prostate specific antigen promoter. To detect androgen receptor (AR) expression, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were conducted. RESULTS 2'-Hydroxyflavanone inhibited the proliferation of PC-3 and DU145 cells by induction of apoptosis. 2'-Hydroxyflavanone inhibited the proliferation of LNCaP cells stimulated by androgens and attenuated androgen-responsiveness through down-regulation of AR protein. CONCLUSION 2'-Hydroxyflavanone not only inhibited proliferation of prostate cancer cells, but also repressed androgen-responsiveness, suggesting that it might be a useful agent in preventing recurrence of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuo Ofude
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 13-1 Takaramachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan.
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24
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Aceves-Ramos A, Valdez RA, Gaona B, Willms K, Romano MC. Steroid synthesis by Taenia crassiceps WFU cysticerci is regulated by enzyme inhibitors. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 188:212-7. [PMID: 23608546 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cysticerci and tapeworms from Taenia crassiceps WFU, ORF and Taenia solium synthesize sex-steroid hormones in vitro. Corticosteroids increase the 17β-estradiol synthesis by T. crassiceps cysticerci. T. crassiceps WFU cysticerci synthesize corticosteroids, mainly 11-deoxycorticosterone (DOC). The aim of this work was to investigate whether classical steroidogenic inhibitors modify the capacity of T. crassiceps WFU cysticerci to synthesize corticosteroids and sex steroid hormones. For this purpose, T. crassiceps WFU cysticerci were obtained from the abdominal cavity of mice, pre-cultured for 24h in DMEM+antibiotics/antimycotics and cultured in the presence of tritiated progesterone ((3)H-P4), androstendione ((3)H-A4), or dehydroepiandrosterone ((3)H-DHEA) plus different doses of the corresponding inhibitors, for different periods. Blanks with the culture media adding the tritiated precursors were simultaneously incubated. At the end of the incubation period, parasites were separated and media extracted with ether. The resulting steroids were separated by thin layer chromatography (TLC). Data were expressed as percent transformation of the tritiated precursors. Results showed that after 2h of exposure of the cysticerci to 100 μM formestane, the (3)H-17β-estradiol synthesis from tritiated androstenedione was significantly inhibited. The incubation of cysticerci in the presence of (3)H-DHEA and danazol (100 nM) resulted in (3)H-androstenediol accumulation and a significant reduction of the 17β-estradiol synthesis. The cysticerci (3)H-DOC synthesis was significantly inhibited when the parasites were cultured in the presence of different ketoconazole dosis. The drug treatments did not affect parasite's viability. The results of this study showed that corticosteroid and sex steroid synthesis in T. crassiceps WFU cysticerci can be modified by steroidogenic enzyme inhibitors. As was shown previously by our laboratory and others, parasite survival and development depends on sex steroids, therefore the inhibition of their synthesis is a good starting point exploited in situations where the inhibition of steroidogenesis could help to control the infection for the development of new treatments, or replacement of the usual therapy in resistant parasite infections. We raise the possibility that these drug actions may be beneficially.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aceves-Ramos
- Dpto. de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, CINVESTAV del I.P.N., Apdo. Postal 14-740, 07360 Mexico D.F., Mexico
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25
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Rubio-Gayosso I, Ramirez-Sanchez I, Ita-Islas I, Ortiz-Vilchis P, Gutierrez-Salmean G, Meaney A, Palma I, Olivares I, Garcia R, Meaney E, Ceballos G. Testosterone metabolites mediate its effects on myocardial damage induced by ischemia/reperfusion in male Wistar rats. Steroids 2013; 78:362-9. [PMID: 23276633 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2012] [Revised: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The role of testosterone in cardiovascular (CV) homeostasis is in controversy, and the exact effects of testosterone on the cardiovascular system remain poorly understood. Testosterone is metabolized by aromatase into 17β-estradiol and by 5α-reductase into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Thus, identification of these metabolites in the heart may help to explain the controversy regarding the cardiovascular effects of testosterone. We analyzed the expression patterns of these testosterone-metabolizing enzymes and assessed the effect of its enzymatic activity inhibition on ischemia (40 min)/reperfusion (4h, I/R) via the left anterior descendent coronary artery in intact and gonadectomized male rats. Myocardial damage was measured as percentage of infarcted area vs. area at risk. Aromatase and 5α-reductase protein expression was found in the left ventricle of intact and orchidectomized rats. Exogenous testosterone had no effect on I/R induced myocardial damage in intact male rats, meanwhile exogenous testosterone protects against I/R injury in orchidectomized rats. However, enzymatic inhibition of aromatase increased myocardial damage in the presence of testosterone, while enzymatic inhibition of 5α-reductase significantly decreased the level of myocardial damage. Our results also showed that sub-chronic inhibition of 5α-reductase resulted in myocardial protection in both groups. Furthermore, in orchidectomized and intact male rats IV treatment with DHT induces a significant increase in the myocardial damage induced by I/R. Thus, the effect of testosterone on cardiovascular pathophysiology could be related, at least in part to changes in the balance of testosterone 5α-reduction and aromatization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Rubio-Gayosso
- Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
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26
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Michael Miller KK, Al-Rayyan N, Ivanova MM, Mattingly KA, Ripp SL, Klinge CM, Prough RA. DHEA metabolites activate estrogen receptors alpha and beta. Steroids 2013; 78:15-25. [PMID: 23123738 PMCID: PMC3529809 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels were reported to associate with increased breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, but some carcinogen-induced rat mammary tumor studies question this claim. The purpose of this study was to determine how DHEA and its metabolites affect estrogen receptors α or β (ERα or ERβ)-regulated gene transcription and cell proliferation. In transiently transfected HEK-293 cells, androstenediol, DHEA, and DHEA-S activated ERα. In ERβ transfected HepG2 cells, androstenedione, DHEA, androstenediol, and 7-oxo DHEA stimulated reporter activity. ER antagonists ICI 182,780 (fulvestrant) and 4-hydroxytamoxifen, general P450 inhibitor miconazole, and aromatase inhibitor exemestane inhibited activation by DHEA or metabolites in transfected cells. ERβ-selective antagonist R,R-THC (R,R-cis-diethyl tetrahydrochrysene) inhibited DHEA and DHEA metabolite transcriptional activity in ERβ-transfected cells. Expression of endogenous estrogen-regulated genes: pS2, progesterone receptor, cathepsin D1, and nuclear respiratory factor-1 was increased by DHEA and its metabolites in an ER-subtype, gene, and cell-specific manner. DHEA metabolites, but not DHEA, competed with 17β-estradiol for ERα and ERβ binding and stimulated MCF-7 cell proliferation, demonstrating that DHEA metabolites interact directly with ERα and ERβin vitro, modulating estrogen target genes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Carolyn M. Klinge
- CORRESPONDING AUTHORS: Russell A. Prough, Ph.D., and Carolyn M. Klinge. Ph.D. Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292. Phone: (502) 852-7249 (RAP); 502-852-3668 (CMK); FAX: (502) 852-6222; and
| | - Russell A. Prough
- CORRESPONDING AUTHORS: Russell A. Prough, Ph.D., and Carolyn M. Klinge. Ph.D. Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292. Phone: (502) 852-7249 (RAP); 502-852-3668 (CMK); FAX: (502) 852-6222; and
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27
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Haas MJ, Raheja P, Jaimungal S, Sheikh-Ali M, Mooradian AD. Estrogen-dependent inhibition of dextrose-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and superoxide generation in endothelial cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2012; 52:2161-7. [PMID: 22569410 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2012.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2011] [Revised: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Increased oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) have been implicated in atherosclerosis. Estrogens have potent antioxidant activity but their effects on ER stress have not been well studied. Therefore, we studied the effects of estradiol and related sex steroids on dextrose-induced ER stress and superoxide (SO) generation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Oxidative stress was measured using hydroethidine fluorescence and MCLA chemiluminescence. ER stress was measured with an ER stress-sensitive secreted alkaline phosphatase (ES-TRAP) assay and by Western blot analysis of the expression of GRP78, JNK1, and phosphorylated JNK1, markers for ER stress. A supraphysiological dextrose concentration (27.5mM) increased ER stress and SO generation compared to treatment with a physiological concentration (5.5mM) of dextrose. In the presence of estradiol or testosterone (T), ER stress and SO generation were significantly reduced. In contrast to T-treated cells, dihydrotestosterone and 5-methyltestosterone were ineffective at alleviating ER stress or SO generation. When HUVECs were treated with T and the aromatase inhibitor 4-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione, T was no longer effective at suppressing ER stress or inhibiting SO generation. Changes in GRP78 expression and JNK activity in HUVECs support the results obtained in the ES-TRAP assay. These results indicate that dextrose-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and superoxide generation are reversed by estradiol and testosterone; however, the latter requires aromatase-dependent conversion to estradiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Haas
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
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28
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Pöllänen E, Sipilä S, Alen M, Ronkainen PHA, Ankarberg-Lindgren C, Puolakka J, Suominen H, Hämäläinen E, Turpeinen U, Konttinen YT, Kovanen V. Differential influence of peripheral and systemic sex steroids on skeletal muscle quality in pre- and postmenopausal women. Aging Cell 2011; 10:650-60. [PMID: 21388496 DOI: 10.1111/j.1474-9726.2011.00701.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with gradual decline of skeletal muscle strength and mass often leading to diminished muscle quality. This phenomenon is known as sarcopenia and affects about 30% of the over 60-year-old population. Androgens act as anabolic agents regulating muscle mass and improving muscle performance. The role of female sex steroids as well as the ability of skeletal muscle tissue to locally produce sex steroids has been less extensively studied. We show that despite the extensive systemic deficit of sex steroid hormones in postmenopausal compared to premenopausal women, the hormone content of skeletal muscle does not follow the same trend. In contrast to the systemic levels, muscle tissue of post- and premenopausal women had similar concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone and androstenedione, while the concentrations of estradiol and testosterone were significantly higher in muscle of the postmenopausal women. The presence of steroidogenetic enzymes in muscle tissue indicates that the elevated postmenopausal steroid levels in skeletal muscle are because of local steroidogenesis. The circulating sex steroids were associated with better muscle quality while the muscle concentrations reflected the amount of infiltrated fat within muscle tissue. We conclude that systemically delivered and peripherally produced sex steroids have distinct roles in the regulation of neuromuscular characteristics during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eija Pöllänen
- Gerontology Research Center, Department of Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, FIN-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
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29
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Vallcaneras SS, Casais M, Anzulovich AC, Delgado SM, Sosa Z, Telleria CM, Rastrilla AM. Androstenedione acts on the coeliac ganglion and modulates luteal function via the superior ovarian nerve in the postpartum rat. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2011; 125:243-50. [PMID: 21439382 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2011.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Revised: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Androstenedione can affect luteal function via a neural pathway in the late pregnant rat. Here, we investigate whether androstenedione is capable of opposing to regression of pregnancy corpus luteum that occurs after parturition, indirectly, from the coeliac ganglion. Thus, androstenedione was added into the ganglionar compartment of an ex vivo coeliac ganglion-superior ovarian nerve-ovary system isolated from non-lactating rats on day 4 postpartum. At the end of incubation, we measured the abundance of progesterone, androstenedione and oestradiol released into the ovarian compartment. Luteal mRNA expression and activity of progesterone synthesis and degradation enzymes, 3β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 20α-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase (20α-HSD), respectively, as well as the aromatase, Bcl-2, Bax, Fas and FasL transcript levels, were also determined. Additionally, we measured the ovarian release of norepinephrine, nitric oxide and luteal inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression. The presence of androstenedione in the ganglion compartment significantly increased the release of ovarian progesterone, androstenedione and oestradiol without modifying 3β-HSD and 20α-HSD activities or mRNA expression. The ovarian release of oestradiol in response to the presence of androstenedione in the ganglion compartment declined with time of incubation in accord with a reduction in the aromatase mRNA expression. Androstenedione added to the ganglion compartment decreased FasL mRNA expression, without affecting luteal Bcl-2, Bax and Fas transcript levels; also increased the release of norepinephrine, decreased the release of nitric oxide and increased iNOS mRNA. In summary, on day 4 after parturition, androstenedione can mediate a luteotropic effect acting at the coeliac ganglion and transmitting to the ovary a signaling via a neural pathway in association with increased release of norepinephrine, decreased nitric oxide release, and decreased expression of FasL.
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30
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Latif SA, Shen M, Ge RS, Sottas CM, Hardy MP, Morris DJ. Role of 11β-OH-C(19) and C(21) steroids in the coupling of 11β-HSD1 and 17β-HSD3 in regulation of testosterone biosynthesis in rat Leydig cells. Steroids 2011; 76:682-9. [PMID: 21440566 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2011.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2010] [Revised: 03/15/2011] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Here we describe further experiments to support our hypothesis that bidirectional 11β-HSD1-dehydrogenase in Leydig cells is a NADP(H) regenerating system. In the absence of androstenedione (AD), substrate for 17β-HSD3, incubation of Leydig cells with corticosterone (B) or several C(19)- and C(21)-11β-OH-steroids, in the presence of [(3)H]-11-dehydro-corticosterone (A), stimulated 11β-HSD1-reductase activity. However, in presence of 30 μM AD, testosterone (Teso) synthesis is stimulated from 4 to 197 picomole/25,000 cells/30 min and concomitantly inhibited 11β-HSD1-reductase activity, due to competition for the common cofactor NADPH needed for both reactions. Testo production was further significantly increased (p<0.05) to 224-267 picomole/25,000 cells/30 min when 10 μM 11β-OH-steroids (in addition to 30 μM AD) were also included. Similar results were obtained in experiments conducted with lower concentrations of AD (5 μM), and B or A (500 nM). Incubations of 0.3-6.0 μM of corticosterone (plus or minus 30 μM AD) were then performed to test the effectiveness of 17β-HSD3 as a possible NADP(+) regenerating system. In the absence of AD, increasing amounts (3-44 pmol/25,000 cells/30 min) of 11-dehydro-corticosterone were produced with increasing concentrations of corticosterone in the medium. When 30 μM AD was included, the rate of 11-dehydro-corticosterone formation dramatically increased 1.3-5-fold producing 4-210 pmol/25,000 cells/30 min of 11-dehydro-corticosterone. We conclude that 11β-HSD1 is enzymatically coupled to 17β-HSD3, utilizing NADPH and NADP in intermeshed regeneration systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed A Latif
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, 164, Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906, United States.
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Nourbakhsh M, Golestani A, Zahrai M, Modarressi MH, Malekpour Z, Karami-Tehrani F. Androgens stimulate telomerase expression, activity and phosphorylation in ovarian adenocarcinoma cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 330:10-6. [PMID: 20673788 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2010] [Revised: 07/17/2010] [Accepted: 07/22/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Androgens have been implicated in increasing ovarian cancer risk. Most ovarian cancer cells have high telomerase activity which is effective in inducing ovarian carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of testosterone and androstenedione on the viability of an ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line, the activity and expression of telomerase, and the phosphorylation status of its catalytic subunit in these cells. Results showed that androgens significantly increased the viability of ovarian cancer cells and that these hormones induced the expression, activity and phosphorylation of telomerase. This upregulation was blocked by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway inhibitors. These findings might have implications for understanding the role of androgens in ovarian carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Nourbakhsh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1417613151 Tehran, Iran
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Watari Y, Yamaguchi S, Takahashi M, Nagaoka M, Numazawa M. 4- and 6-(p-Sulphamoylphenyl)androstenediones: Studies of aromatase inhibitor-based oestrone sulphatase inhibition. Steroids 2010; 75:891-6. [PMID: 20546769 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2010.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2010] [Revised: 05/07/2010] [Accepted: 05/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
4-(p-Sulphamoylphenyl)androstenedione (3) and 6alpha-p-sulphamoylphenyl analogues 12-14 were synthesised and tested as aromatase inhibitors as well as oestrone sulphatase inhibitors in human placental microsomes. All of the p-sulphamoylphenyl compounds synthesised were powerful inhibitors of aromatase with apparent K(i) values ranging between 30 and 97nM. In addition, the aromatase inhibitory activities of 6alpha-p-hydroxyphenyl compounds 9-11, which may be produced from their respective sulphamoylphenyl compounds by action of oestrone sulphatase, were also high in a range of 23 and 75nM of the K(i) values. On the other hand, all of the sulphamoylphenyl compounds were poor inhibitors of oestrone sulphatase with more than about 200microM of IC(25) values. Although the present findings of the oestrone sulphatase inhibition are disappointing, such attempts may be valuable to develop a new class of drugs having a dual function, aromatase inhibitor and oestrone sulphatase inhibitor, for the treatment of oestrogen-dependent breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Watari
- Tohoku Pharmaceutical University, 4-1 Komatsushima-4-Chome, Aobaku, Sendai 981-8558, Japan
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Romero S, Smitz J. Exposing cultured mouse ovarian follicles under increased gonadotropin tonus to aromatizable androgens influences the steroid balance and reduces oocyte meiotic capacity. Endocrine 2010; 38:243-53. [PMID: 21046485 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-010-9380-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Acquisition of oocyte developmental competence relies on the well-controlled events accompanying antral follicular development. Elevated basal androgen levels, as in PCOS, potentially affect oocyte quality. Current experiments in an in vitro follicle bioassay studied dose-effects of androstenedione and testosterone on FSH and hCG stimulated antral follicle growth and meiotic maturation. The addition of either androgens altered follicle's endogenous production of androstenedione, testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone and affected the oocyte's capacity to resume meiosis. Exposure to 200 nM androstenedione induced an increased production of testosterone and estradiol. Exposure to a concentration of ≥200 nM testosterone induced elevated levels of estradiol and progesterone. Significant dose-dependent negative effects on polar body extrusion were seen at concentrations of ≥200 nM of either androgen. In addition, chromosome displacement on the metaphase plate was observed in oocytes obtained from androstenedione-treated follicles. Follicles exposed to a combination of 25 mIU/ml FSH and 3 mIU/ml hCG and elevated aromatizable androgens altered the steroid production profile, affected the follicular development and impaired oocyte meiotic competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Romero
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of androstenedione (CAS No. 63-05-8) in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (gavage studies). Natl Toxicol Program Tech Rep Ser 2010;:1, 7-31, 33-171 passim. [PMID: 21037592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Androstenedione is an androgen steroid that is normally synthesized within men and women and may be metabolized to a more potent androgen or estrogen hormone. It was nominated to the National Toxicology Program for study due to concern for adverse health effects associated with its chronic use as a dietary supplement by athletes (prior to the banning of its over the counter sales). In order to evaluate its subchronic and chronic toxicity, male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were administered androstenedione (98% pure) by gavage for 2 weeks, 3 months, or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, rat bone marrow cells, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 2-WEEK STUDY IN RATS: groups of five male and five female rats were administered 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for 12 days. All rats survived to the end of the study, and the mean body weights of dosed groups were similar to those of the vehicle control groups. The development of cytoplasmic vacuoles within centrilobular hepatocytes in male rats was the only treatment-related effect observed. 2-WEEK STUDY IN MICE: groups of five male and five female mice were administered 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for 12 days. One vehicle control female, one 20 mg/kg female, and one 50 mg/kg female died early due to gavage accidents. There were no significant chemical-related histopathological or mean body weight changes. 3-MONTH STUDY IN RATS: groups of 10 male and 10 female core study rats were administered 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for 14 weeks; additional groups of 10 male and 10 female clinical pathology study rats received the same doses for 23 days. All rats survived to the end of the study. The mean body weights of the 20 mg/kg female group was significantly greater than those of the vehicle control group and there was significant increased weight gain in the 1, 20, and 50 mg/kg female groups. Female thymus weights were significantly increased in the 20 and 50 mg/kg groups, which may be related to the increase in mean body weight. The numbers of sperm per mg cauda epididymis in the 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg male groups and the total number of sperm per cauda epididymis in 50 mg/kg males were significantly less than those of the vehicle controls. No treatment-related histological lesions were observed in males or females. 3-MONTH STUDY IN MICE: groups of 10 male and 10 female mice were administered 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for 14 weeks. Except for one 10 mg/kg female that died early due to a dosing accident, all mice survived to the end of the study. The mean body weights of dosed groups were similar to those of the vehicle control groups. The number of spermatids per mg testis and the total number of spermatids per testis in 20 mg/kg males were significantly greater than those of the vehicle controls. Sperm motility in 50 mg/kg males was significantly lower than that in the vehicle controls. The incidences of x-zone atrophy of the adrenal cortex, an androgen-sensitive endpoint, were significantly increased in females administered 5 mg/kg or greater. There were also significant decreases in the incidences of x-zone cytoplasmic vacuolization in 20 and 50 mg/kg females. The incidences of bone marrow hyperplasia were significantly increased in 5 and 50 mg/kg males. 2-YEAR STUDY IN RATS: groups of 50 male and 50 female rats were administered 0, 10, 20, or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for at least 104 weeks. Survival of 10 mg/kg males was significantly greater than that of the vehicle controls. The mean body weights of 20 and 50 mg/kg females were greater than those of the vehicle controls after weeks 17 and 9, respectively. The incidences of mononuclear cell leukemia were significantly increased in 20 and 50 mg/kg females and significantly decreased in 20 and 50 mg/kg males. Incidences of alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma and alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma or carcinoma (combined) were significantly increased in 20 mg/kg males. The incidence of testicular interstitial cell adenoma (including bilateral) was significantly decreased in 50 mg/kg males. In females, the incidences of mammary gland fibroadenoma were significantly decreased in the 20 and 50 mg/kg groups, the incidences of mammary gland hyperplasia were significantly decreased in all dosed groups, and the incidences of mammary gland cyst were significantly decreased in the 10 and 50 mg/kg groups. In the liver of males, the incidences of basophilic focus in all dosed groups, the incidence of clear cell focus in the 20 mg/kg group, and the incidence of eosinophilic focus in the 50 mg/kg group were significantly increased. The incidences of pancreatic islet hyperplasia and atrophy of the exocrine pancreas were significantly increased in 50 mg/kg females. 2-YEAR STUDY IN MICE: groups of 50 male and 50 female mice were administered 0, 2 (females only), 10, 20 (males only), or 50 mg androstenedione/kg body weight in a 0.5% aqueous methylcellulose solution by gavage, 5 days per week for at least 104 weeks. Survival of dosed groups was similar to that of the vehicle control groups. Mean body weights of 10 and 50 mg/kg females were generally less than those of the vehicle controls after weeks 81 and 17, respectively. The incidences of hepatocellular adenoma in males and females were significantly increased in the 50 mg/kg groups. In females, the incidences of hepatocellular carcinoma were significantly increased in all dosed groups. Incidences of hepatocellular adenoma or carcinoma (combined) in males and females were significantly increased in the 50 mg/kg groups. Incidences of hepatoblastoma were marginally increased in dosed males. Incidences of multiple hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas were significantly increased in 10 and 50 mg/kg males, and there was an increased incidence of multiple hepatocellular adenomas in 50 mg/kg females. The incidence of eosinophilic focus was significantly increased in 50 mg/kg males, and the incidences of mixed cell focus and cytoplasmic vacuolization were significantly increased in 50 mg/kg females. There was a marginally increased incidence of pancreatic islet adenoma in 50 mg/kg males and in 10 and 50 mg/kg females, with an earlier day of first incidence in males. The incidences of clitoral gland hyperplasia and clitoral gland duct dilatation were significantly increased in 10 and 50 mg/kg females. The incidence of glomerular metaplasia of the kidney was significantly increased in 50 mg/kg females, and the incidences of cytoplasmic alteration of the submandibular salivary gland were significantly increased in all dosed female groups. The increased incidences of cytoplasmic alteration of the submandibular salivary gland and glomerular metaplasia of the kidney in female mice indicated a masculinizing effect from androstenedione treatment. In 50 mg/kg females, the incidence of malignant lymphoma was significantly decreased. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY androstenedione was not mutagenic in either of two independent bacterial mutation assays conducted with and without exogenous metabolic activation. No significant increases in the frequencies of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes, indicators of chromosomal damage, were observed in bone marrow of male rats administered androstenedione by gavage once daily for 3 consecutive days. Results of a peripheral blood erythrocyte micronucleus test in mice, in which androstenedione was administered by gavage for 3 months, were negative in males but judged to be equivocal in females due to a small increase (twofold over background) in micronucleated normochromatic erythrocytes observed at the highest dose administered (50 mg/kg). CONCLUSIONS under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies, there was equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of androstenedione in male F344/N rats based on increased incidences of alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma and alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma or carcinoma (combined). There was equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of androstenedione in female F344/N rats based on increased incidences of mononuclear cell leukemia. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of androstenedione in male B6C3F1 mice based on increased incidences of multiple hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma and increased incidence of hepatoblastoma. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of androstenedione in female B6C3F1 mice based on increased incidences of hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. Increased incidences of pancreatic islet adenoma in male and female mice were also considered chemical related. Androstenedione administration caused increased incidences in nonneoplastic lesions of the liver in male and female rats and mice; pancreatic islets and exocrine pancreas of female rats; and clitoral gland, kidney, and submandibular salivary gland of female mice. Decreases in the incidences of testicular interstitial cell adenoma in male rats, mammary gland fibroadenoma, cysts, and hyperplasia in female rats, and malignant lymphoma in female mice were considered related to androstenedione administration. Synonyms: Andro; androst-4-ene-3,17-dione; 4-androstene-3,17-dione; delta-4-androstene-3,17-dione; delta-4-androstenedione; 3,17-dioxoandrost-4-ene; 17-ketotestosterone; SKF 2170 Trade names: Androtex, Fecundin.
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Cabeza M, García-Lorenzana M, Garcés M, Heuze I, Teran N, Bratoeff E. New-D-homoandrost-4,6-diene derivatives as potent progesterone receptor antagonist. Steroids 2010; 75:101-8. [PMID: 19913568 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2009.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2009] [Revised: 10/14/2009] [Accepted: 11/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to synthesize three different D-homoandrostadiene derivatives (2-4) and study their biological activity. We carried out in vivo and in vitro experiments using female cycling mice, which were synchronized for estrus with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) and injected with the steroidal compounds. It was also determined the binding of these compounds to the progesterone receptors (PR). Since these steroids have a new D-homoandrostandienone skeleton in their molecular structure, it was of interest also to study their binding to the androgen receptors (AR). After LHRH treatment, the mice of the control group showed the presence of 14+/-4 corpus lutea in the ovary whereas the animals treated with steroids 2-4, with RBAs of 100%, exhibited 11+/-7, 12+/-2, and 10+/-4 respectively. As a result of this study, it is evident that these steroids did not inhibit the ovulation in these animals. The uterus of the control group, showed the typical progestational activity with an enlarged endometrial thickness with a secretory activity. However, the endometrium of the mice treated with steroids 2-4 did not show an enlargement of the endometrium and no secretory activity could be detected. This fact indicates that compounds 2-4 had antagonistic activity in this tissue. The overall data show that steroids 2-4 are antagonists of the PR. However, they do not bind to the AR. These results also demonstrate that 2-4 have an antiprogestational activity in vivo, but do not decrease the number of corpus lutea in the ovary of mice treated with LHRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Cabeza
- Department of Biological Systems and Animal Production Metropolitan University-Xochimilco, Mexico D. F., Mexico.
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Komatsu S, Yaguchi A, Yamashita K, Nagaoka M, Numazawa M. 6beta,19-Bridged androstenedione analogs as aromatase inhibitors. Steroids 2009; 74:884-9. [PMID: 19524602 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2009.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2009] [Revised: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of aromatase is an efficient approach for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. New 6beta,19-bridged steroid analogs of androstenedione, 6beta,19-epithio- and 6beta,19-methano compounds 11 and 17, were synthesized starting from 19-hydroxyandrostenedione (6) and 19-formylandrost-5-ene-3beta,17beta-yl diacetate (12), respectively, as aromatase inhibitors. All of the compounds including known steroids 6beta,19-epoxyandrostenedione (4) and 6beta,19-cycloandrostenedione (5) tested were weak to poor competitive inhibitors of aromatase and, among them, 6beta,19-epoxy steroid 4 provided only moderate inhibition (K(i): 2.2 microM). These results show that the 6beta,19-bridged groups of the inhibitors interfere with binding in active site of aromatase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Komatsu
- Tohoku Pharmaceutical University, 4-1 Komatsushima-4-chome, Aoba-ku, Sendai 981-8558, Japan
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Tan BK, Chen J, Farhatullah S, Adya R, Kaur J, Heutling D, Lewandowski KC, O'Hare JP, Lehnert H, Randeva HS. Insulin and metformin regulate circulating and adipose tissue chemerin. Diabetes 2009; 58:1971-7. [PMID: 19502420 PMCID: PMC2731540 DOI: 10.2337/db08-1528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess chemerin levels and regulation in sera and adipose tissue from women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and matched control subjects. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting were used to assess mRNA and protein expression of chemerin. Serum chemerin was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We investigated the in vivo effects of insulin on serum chemerin levels via a prolonged insulin-glucose infusion. Ex vivo effects of insulin, metformin, and steroid hormones on adipose tissue chemerin protein production and secretion into conditioned media were assessed by Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. RESULTS Serum chemerin, subcutaneous, and omental adipose tissue chemerin were significantly higher in women with PCOS (n = 14; P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Hyperinsulinemic induction in human subjects significantly increased serum chemerin levels (n = 6; P < 0.05, P < 0.01). In adipose tissue explants, insulin significantly increased (n = 6; P < 0.05, P < 0.01) whereas metformin significantly decreased (n = 6; P < 0.05, P < 0.01) chemerin protein production and secretion into conditioned media, respectively. After 6 months of metformin treatment, there was a significant decrease in serum chemerin (n = 21; P < 0.01). Importantly, changes in homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance were predictive of changes in serum chemerin (P = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS Serum and adipose tissue chemerin levels are increased in women with PCOS and are upregulated by insulin. Metformin treatment decreases serum chemerin in these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee K. Tan
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Jing Chen
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Syed Farhatullah
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Raghu Adya
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Jaspreet Kaur
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Dennis Heutling
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Magdeburg University Hospital, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Krzysztof C. Lewandowski
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, The Medical University of Lodz and Polish Mother's Memorial Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - J. Paul O'Hare
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Hendrik Lehnert
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
- 1 Medical Department, University of Lübeck Medical School, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Harpal S. Randeva
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
- Corresponding author: Harpal S. Randeva,
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Abstract
Cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes regulate a variety of endogenous signaling molecules and play central roles in the metabolism of xenobiotics and drugs. We recently showed that an aryl alkyne serves as an effective activity-based probe for profiling mouse liver microsomal P450s in vitro and in vivo. However, individual P450s display distinct substrate and inhibitor specificities, indicating that multiple probe structures may be required to achieve comprehensive coverage of this large and diverse enzyme family. Here, we have synthesized a suite of P450-directed, activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) probes that contain: (1) varied chemical architectures validated as mechanism-based inhibitors of the P450 enzyme family, and (2) terminal alkyne groups for click chemistry conjugation of reporter tags. This set of probes was screened against a wide cross-section of human P450s, leading to the discovery of an optimal set of probes that provide broad coverage of this enzyme family. We used these probes to profile the effects on P450 activity of aromatase inhibitors in current clinical use for the treatment of breast cancer. We describe the surprising discovery that one of these aromatase inhibitors, anastrozole, significantly increases probe-labeling of P450 1A2, indicative of a heterotypic cooperativity effect on a central P450 isozyme involved in metabolizing numerous drugs and xenobiotics. The results presented herein greatly expand the suite of ABPP probes for profiling P450s and illuminate new applications for these tools to understand P450-drug interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron T. Wright
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Joongyu D. Song
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Benjamin F. Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037
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Abstract
The aim of the study was to see the function of follicular cells collected from ovaries of women suffering from endometriosis. The material was granulosa cells taken from 11 patients operated on 3rd and 4th degree of endometriosis. Antral granulosa cells were harvested from 34 medium-size (5-10 mm in diameter) follicles located on the cysts' walls or in the cysts' vicinity. Using the culture method, morphology and steroid secretion was estimated. Morphological properties of the cells in the culture did not differ significantly from that of healthy ones. All cells formed a monolayer and achieved different degrees of luteinization. Steroidogenesis of these granulosa cells was defected, particularly in the production of progesterone and testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Skrzypczak
- Department of Reproduction, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Poznań Academy of Medicine, Poznań/Poland
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Rodina NV, Andriushina VA, Stytsenko TS, Turova TP, Baslerov RV, Panteleeva AN, Voĭshvillo NE. [The introduction of the 9alpha-hydroxy group into androst-4-en-3,17-dione using a new actinobacterium strain]. Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol 2009; 45:439-445. [PMID: 19764613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A 9alpha-hydrolase activity of a new actinobacterium strain identified as Rhodococcus erythropolis based on the analysis of a 16S rRNA gene sequence (1417 nucleotides) towards androst-4-en-3,17-dione (AD) was studied. In the presence of glucose in the medium, this strain completely transformed AD (4-20 g/l) into 9alpha-hydroxy-AD over 20-48 h. This culture was able to grow and perform AD 9alphahydroxylation at a concentration of dimethyl formamide up to 9%. Crystalline 9alpha-hydroxy-AD was isolated with a yield of over 90%.
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Vallcaneras SS, Casais M, Delgado SM, Filippa V, Mohamed F, Sosa Z, Rastrilla AM. Androgen receptors in coeliac ganglion in late pregnant rat. Steroids 2009; 74:526-34. [PMID: 19428441 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2009.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2008] [Revised: 12/23/2008] [Accepted: 01/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian function is controlled by endocrine factors and neural influence. In late pregnant rat, androstenedione, from the coeliac ganglion, has a luteotrophic effect in the ex vivo coeliac ganglion-superior ovarian nerve-ovary system. In this work we investigate the presence of androgen receptors in the coeliac ganglion of late pregnant rats by immunohistochemistry. We also explore, from a physiological point of view, the potential participation of these receptors in the androstenedione ganglionic action on progesterone release and metabolism, as well as on nitrites release in the ovary compartment. The coeliac ganglion was isolated after being fixed in situ and immunohistochemistry was performed. In the system, three experimental groups were used with the addition of (a) androstenedione, (b) flutamide, and (c) androstenedione plus flutamide in the ganglion compartment. Progesterone and nitrite concentrations were determined in the ovary compartment at different incubation times. Corpora lutea samples isolated at the end of incubation were used to determine the expressions and activities of the progesterone synthesis (3beta-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase, 3beta-HSD) and degradation (20alpha-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase, 20alpha-HSD) enzymes. Immunohistochemistry revealed cytoplasmatic androgen receptor immunoreactivity in neural somas in the coeliac ganglion. In the coeliac ganglion-superior ovarian nerve-ovary system, androstenedione addition increased 3beta-HSD and decreased 20alpha-HSD, showed a tendency to decrease 20alpha-HSD expression, and increased nitrites release in relation to control. Androstenedione plus flutamide decreased progesterone and nitrites release in relation to the androstenedione group. This work demonstrates the presence of androgen receptors in neurons of celiac ganglion and provides evidence for the luteotrophic action of androstenedione via a neural pathway that may be mediated by these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Silvina Vallcaneras
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
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Figueiroa MS, César Vieira JSB, Leite DS, Filho RCOA, Ferreira F, Gouveia PS, Udrisar DP, Wanderley MI. Green tea polyphenols inhibit testosterone production in rat Leydig cells. Asian J Androl 2009; 11:362-70. [PMID: 19330017 PMCID: PMC3735300 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2009.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2008] [Revised: 12/02/2008] [Accepted: 01/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the acute effects of green tea extract (GTE) and its polyphenol constituents, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and (-)-epicatechin (EC), on basal and stimulated testosterone production by rat Leydig cells in vitro. Leydig cells purified in a Percoll gradient were incubated for 3 h with GTE, EGCG or EC and the testosterone precursor androstenedione, in the presence or absence of either protein kinase A (PKA) or protein kinase C (PKC) activators. The reversibility of the effect was studied by pretreating cells for 15 min with GTE or EGCG, allowing them to recover for 1 h and challenging them for 2 h with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH), 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol or androstenedione. GTE and EGCG, but not EC, inhibited both basal and kinase-stimulated testosterone production. Under the pretreatment conditions, the inhibitory effect of the higher concentration of GTE/EGCG on hCG/LHRH-stimulated or 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol-induced testosterone production was maintained, whereas androstenedione-supported testosterone production returned to control levels. At the lower concentration of GTE/EGCG, the inhibitory effect of these polyphenols on 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol-supported testosterone production was reversed. The inhibitory effects of GTE may be explained by the action of its principal component, EGCG, and the presence of a gallate group in its structure seems important for its high efficacy in inhibiting testosterone production. The mechanisms underlying the effects of GTE and EGCG involve the inhibition of the PKA/PKC signalling pathways, as well as the inhibition of P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina S Figueiroa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50607-901 Recife, PE, Brazil
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Goss PE, Qi S, Hu H. Comparing the effects of atamestane, toremifene and tamoxifen alone and in combination, on bone, serum lipids and uterus in ovariectomized rats. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2009; 113:233-40. [PMID: 19429427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2009.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2008] [Revised: 12/01/2008] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Complete estrogen blockade remains under investigation as a means to optimize anti-estrogen therapy in breast cancer thus both the efficacy and end-organ toxicities are of interest with combinations. We hypothesized that a steroidal aromatase inhibitor (AI) atamestane (ATA) alone, and in combination with the anti-estrogens tamoxifen (TAM) or toremifene (TOR) would have beneficial effects in ovariectomized (OVX) rats on key end-organ functions including bone and lipid metabolism and on the endometrium. Significant positive effects on bone were noted with ATA, TOR, TAM, ATA+TOR, or ATA+TAM. TOR, TAM, ATA+TOR, or ATA+TAM caused significant decreases in serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol whereas ATA had no effect. Uterine weight and epithelium lining height were not increased by ATA but were by TOR and TAM. No significant differences were found in the key parameters outlined above between OVX rats given TOR and ATA+TOR, or TAM and ATA+TAM. Our data show that ATA in combination with TOR or TAM is equivalent to TOR or TAM alone in terms of end-organ effects within a range of clinically relevant doses. Further studies of combinations of AIs with anti-estrogens on end-organ function are merited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Goss
- Breast Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Breast Cancer Disease Program, Dana Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Nuñez JL, McCarthy MM. Resting intracellular calcium concentration, depolarizing Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid and possible role of local estradiol synthesis in the developing male and female hippocampus. Neuroscience 2009; 158:623-34. [PMID: 19007865 PMCID: PMC2660432 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.09.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2008] [Revised: 09/25/2008] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The maturation of the hippocampus is impacted by a multitude of factors, including the regulation of intracellular calcium levels. Depolarizing actions of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) can profoundly alter intracellular calcium in immature hippocampal neurons via influx through voltage-gated calcium channels. We here report fundamental sex differences in properties of depolarizing GABA responses and in resting intracellular calcium in neonatal cultured hippocampal neurons. The effects of the estrogen receptor antagonist, ICI 182,780, and the estradiol-synthesis inhibitor, formestane, indicate the sex differences in depolarizing GABA responses are at least in part due to de novo estradiol synthesis by female neurons, whereas a sex difference in resting calcium is independent of steroids. We postulate that local estradiol synthesis in cultured female hippocampal neurons affects the kinetics of either the GABA(A) receptor or voltage sensitive calcium channels. These data highlight the fact that immature hippocampal neurons exhibit fundamentally different physiological properties in males versus females. Elucidating how and where immature male and female neurons differ is essential for a complete understanding of normal rodent brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Nuñez
- Department of Physiology, Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland, 655 W Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Abstract
N-(2-Hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA) copolymer-doxorubicin (Dox) has already shown clinical activity in breast cancer patients. Moreover, we have recently found that an HPMA conjugate containing a combination of both Dox and the aromatase inhibitor aminoglutethimide (AGM) shows significantly increased anti-tumour activity in vitro. To better understand the mechanism of action of HPMA copolymer-AGM conjugates several models were used here to investigate their effect on cell growth and aromatase inhibition. Cytotoxicity of HPMA copolymer conjugates containing AGM, Dox and also the combination AGM-Dox was determined by MTT assay in MCF-7 and MCF-7ca cells. Androstenedione (5 x 10(- 8) M) stimulates the growth of MCF-7ca cells. Both free AGM and polymer-bound AGM (0.2-0.4 mg/ml) were shown to block this mitogenic activity. When MCF-7ca cells were incubated [(3)H]androstenedione both AGM and HPMA copolymer-GFLG-AGM (0.2 mg/ml AGM-equiv.) showed the ability to inhibit aromatase. Although, free AGM was able to inhibit isolated human placental microsomal aromatase in a concentration dependent manner, polymer-bound AGM was not, suggesting that drug release is essential for activity of the conjugate. HPMA copolymer conjugates containing aromatase inhibitors have potential for the treatment of hormone-dependant cancers, and it would be particularly interesting to explore further as potential therapies in post-menopausal women as components of combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Greco
- Welsh School of Pharmacy, Redwood Building, Cardiff University, Tenovus Centre for Cancer Research, King Edward VII Avenue, UK
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Bukulmez O, Hardy DB, Carr BR, Auchus RJ, Toloubeydokhti T, Word RA, Mendelson CR. Androstenedione up-regulation of endometrial aromatase expression via local conversion to estrogen: potential relevance to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:3471-7. [PMID: 18559914 PMCID: PMC2567859 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-0248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Up-regulation of aromatase expression in endometrial cells disseminated into the peritoneal cavity may enhance their survival via local estrogen synthesis, which may lead to endometriosis. The factors that mediate induction of aromatase in the endometrium are not well defined, but increased expression of steroidogenic factor (SF)-1 may play a role. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine whether androstenedione (A4), the predominant sex steroid in peritoneal fluid, regulates endometrial aromatase expression. DESIGN This was a cell/tissue culture study. SETTING The study was conducted at an academic center. METHODS Quantitative real-time PCR, HPLC, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used in this study. RESULTS Treatment of cultured human endometrial explants and stromal cells with A4 (10 nm) significantly up-regulated expression of aromatase mRNA transcripts containing exon IIa at their 5'-ends. In endometrial stromal cells and the human endometrial surface epithelial (HES) cell line, induction of aromatase mRNA by A4 was associated with increased expression of SF-1. In HES cells, tritiated A4 was metabolized to estradiol, testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone, and androstanediol. Both estradiol and T, but not nonaromatizable androgens, up-regulated aromatase and SF-1 mRNA in HES cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that A4 enhanced recruitment of SF-1 to its response element (-136 bp) upstream of CYP19 exon IIa. This, together with the findings that both estrogen receptor antagonist, ICI 182,780, and aromatase inhibitor, fadrozole, suppressed A4 and T induction of aromatase and SF-1 mRNA, indicates that the inductive effects of A4 and T are mediated by their conversion to estrogens. CONCLUSIONS Exposure of endometrial cells to A4 may enhance CYP19 gene expression through its aromatization to estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Bukulmez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, Florida 32610-0294, USA.
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Abstract
The functional relationship between the ovary and immune cells is well known. The modulation of ovarian steroidogenesis in adult rats with polycystic ovary (PCO) by secretions of cultured splenocytes treated with 10 (-6) M testosterone or 10 (-6) M testosterone plus 10 (-4) M flutamide, an androgen receptor antagonist, was investigated. Polycystic ovary was induced by estradiol valerate (2 mg/rat). Polycystic ovary splenocyte secretions decreased the release of androstenedione from PCO ovaries in contrast to the effect of non-PCO splenocyte secretions. This decrease was associated with a significant decrease in androgen receptor and IL-12 mRNA expression in PCO splenocytes. When splenocytes were treated with testosterone, their conditioned media further decreased androstenedione release from the ovary and had a greater inhibitory effect on PCO ovary compared with non-PCO ovary. This effect was reversed by flutamide. Polycystic ovary splenocytes showed a decrease in IL-1 beta mRNA expression. Their secretions scarcely affected progesterone release from non-PCO ovaries but significantly stimulated progesterone release from PCO ovary by an androgen-independent mechanism. The differential steroidogenic ability of splenocyte secretions from PCO rats is associated with the IN VITRO testosterone environment. Polycystic ovary splenocytes might exert a protective action against PCO effects through their secretions by inducing a low androstenedione response from the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Forneris
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
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Schulz RW, Liemburg M, García-López A, Dijk WV, Bogerd J. Androgens modulate testicular androgen production in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) depending on the stage of maturity and type of androgen. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 156:154-63. [PMID: 18262184 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2007] [Revised: 12/08/2007] [Accepted: 01/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Previous work showed that androgen treatment suppressed testicular steroidogenesis in juvenile African catfish Clarias gariepinus. Similar to other vertebrates, however, circulating androgen levels increase during puberty in catfish. We therefore studied if androgen-induced inhibition of androgen production decreases during sexual maturation. As in other vertebrates, testosterone (T) is found in the circulation in fish but typically, 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) is the quantitatively dominating androgen. In previous studies with juvenile catfish, these two androgens showed different biological activities as regards spermatogenesis or pituitary hormone production, but were equally effective in suppressing testicular steroidogenesis. Hence, the second question we studied was if the two types of androgens show distinct effects on the steroidogenic system in pubertal or adult males. The inhibitory effect of 11-KT on the testicular steroidogenic capacity waned with progressing sexual maturation, while T-mediated inhibition remained strong until adulthood reducing the in vitro steroid production 4- to 10-fold. However, the gonadotropin responsiveness of testicular tissue was not compromised and expression of testicular gonadotropin receptors did not respond differently to the two androgens. We conclude that the selective disappearance of the inhibitory effect of 11-KT contributes to allowing the pubertal increase of the plasma level of this androgen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger W Schulz
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department of Biology, Endocrinology & Metabolism Section, Kruyt Building Room Z-203, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Laplante Y, Poirier D. Proliferative effect of androst-4-ene-3,17-dione and its metabolites in the androgen-sensitive LNCaP cell line. Steroids 2008; 73:266-71. [PMID: 18082864 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2006] [Revised: 06/15/2007] [Accepted: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As a therapeutic approach for the treatment of androgen-sensitive diseases, it would be tempting to lower the level of the potent androgens testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by using inhibitors of type 3 and type 5 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17beta-HSDs). However, the efficiency of such a strategy will be optimal only if androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (Delta4-dione), the precursor of T, does not possess per se agonist activity on the androgen receptor (AR). To determine if the proliferative effect previously observed on AR(+) cells for Delta4-dione originates from its direct (per se) action on AR or from its transformation into a metabolite, we started a series of experimentations using the human prostate cancer LNCaP cell line, which expresses a highly sensitive AR. By real-time RT-PCR analysis, we detected type 1 5alpha-reductase (5alpha-R), a small amount of type 5 17beta-HSD, but not type 2 5alpha-R nor type 3 17beta-HSD. We then studied the transformation of labeled Delta4-dione in LNCaP cells after 1-7 days and the most important metabolite detected was 5alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (A-dione), which is the product of 5alpha-R activity. We measured only low levels of androsterone (ADT) and epi-ADT. This result was next confirmed by using an inhibitor of 5alpha-R that completely inhibited the transformation of Delta4-dione into A-dione, and consequently into ADT and epi-ADT. The proliferative effect of Delta4-dione (carefully purified) on LNCaP (AR(+)) cells was next determined in presence or absence of the 5alpha-R inhibitor. Although the cells proliferate in the presence of Delta4-dione only, no cell proliferation was observed with a combination of Delta4-dione and 5alpha-R inhibitor, suggesting that Delta4-dione is not androgenic per se. We next determined that A-dione and epi-ADT stimulated cell growth with the same pattern and potency as Delta4-dione, whereas ADT had a 3.5-fold lower proliferative activity. In conclusion, Delta4-dione is not in itself an agonist steroid on LNCaP (AR(+)) cells, and its proliferative activity appears to be mediated by its transformation into A-dione and/or into epi-ADT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Laplante
- Medicinal Chemistry Division, Oncology and Molecular Endocrinology Research Center, CHUQ-Pavillon CHUL and Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Hsia SM, Yeh CL, Kuo YH, Wang PS, Chiang W. Effects of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) hull extracts on the secretion of progesterone and estradiol in vivo and in vitro. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2007; 232:1181-94. [PMID: 17895526 DOI: 10.3181/0612-rm-306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for dysfunction of the endocrine system. However, there have been few studies on the effects of adlay seed on the endocrine system. In the present study, both the in vivo and in vitro effects of methanolic extracts of adlay hull (AHM) on progesterone synthesis were studied. AHM was partitioned with four different solvents: water, 1-butanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane. Four fractions, namely, AHM-Wa (water fraction), AHM-Bu (1-butanol fraction), AHM-EA (ethyl acetate fraction), and AHM-Hex (n-hexane fraction), were respectively obtained. Granulosa cells (GCs) were prepared from pregnant mare serum gonadotropin-primed immature female rats and were challenged with different reagents, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG; 0.5 IU/ml), 8-bromo-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cAMP; 0.1 mM), forskolin (10 microM), 25-OH-cholesterol (10 microM), and pregnenolone (10 microM), in the presence or absence of AHM (100 microg/ml). The functions of steroidogenic enzymes, including protein expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), protein kinase A (PKA), and aromatase activity, were investigated. The expression of StAR mRNA was also explored by using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In the in vivo study, AHM decreased plasma progesterone and estradiol levels after an intravenous injection of AHM (2 mg/ ml/kg). In the in vitro studies, AHM decreased progesterone and estradiol via inhibition of (i) the cAMP-PKA signal transduction pathway, (ii) cAMP accumulation, (iii) P450scc and 3beta-HSD enzyme activities, (iv) PKA, P450scc and StAR protein expressions and StAR mRNA expression, and (v) aromatase activity in rat GCs. These results suggest that AHM decreased the production of progesterone via mechanisms involving the inhibition of the cAMP pathway, enzyme activities, and the protein expressions of P450scc and StAR in rat GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Min Hsia
- Graduate Institute of Food Science and Technology, Center for Food and Biomolecules, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan, Republic of China
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