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Escoter-Torres L, Caratti G, Mechtidou A, Tuckermann J, Uhlenhaut NH, Vettorazzi S. Fighting the Fire: Mechanisms of Inflammatory Gene Regulation by the Glucocorticoid Receptor. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1859. [PMID: 31440248 PMCID: PMC6693390 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For many decades, glucocorticoids have been widely used as the gold standard treatment for inflammatory conditions. Unfortunately, their clinical use is limited by severe adverse effects such as insulin resistance, cardiometabolic diseases, muscle and skin atrophies, osteoporosis, and depression. Glucocorticoids exert their effects by binding to the Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR), a ligand-activated transcription factor which both positively, and negatively regulates gene expression. Extensive research during the past several years has uncovered novel mechanisms by which the GR activates and represses its target genes. Genome-wide studies and mouse models have provided valuable insight into the molecular mechanisms of inflammatory gene regulation by GR. This review focusses on newly identified target genes and GR co-regulators that are important for its anti-inflammatory effects in innate immune cells, as well as mutations within the GR itself that shed light on its transcriptional activity. This research progress will hopefully serve as the basis for the development of safer immune suppressants with reduced side effect profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Escoter-Torres
- Molecular Endocrinology, Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Institute for Diabetes and Cancer IDC, Munich, Germany
| | - Giorgio Caratti
- Department of Biology, Institute for Comparative Molecular Endocrinology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Aikaterini Mechtidou
- Molecular Endocrinology, Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Institute for Diabetes and Cancer IDC, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan Tuckermann
- Department of Biology, Institute for Comparative Molecular Endocrinology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Nina Henriette Uhlenhaut
- Molecular Endocrinology, Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Institute for Diabetes and Cancer IDC, Munich, Germany.,Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Vettorazzi
- Department of Biology, Institute for Comparative Molecular Endocrinology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Nicolaides NC, Polyzos A, Koniari E, Lamprokostopoulou A, Papageorgiou I, Golfinopoulou E, Papathanasiou C, Sertedaki A, Thanos D, Chrousos GP, Charmandari E. Transcriptomics in tissue glucocorticoid sensitivity. Eur J Clin Invest 2019; 49:e13129. [PMID: 31091335 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic glucocorticoids are widely used in the treatment of several inflammatory, autoimmune and lymphoproliferative disorders. However, considerable variation in response to therapeutic doses of glucocorticoids has been documented among individuals. The aim of our study was to identify novel glucocorticoid sensitivity-determining genes using genome-wide expression profiling in healthy subjects. METHODS One hundred one healthy subjects [mean age ± standard error of the mean (SEM); 26.52 ± 0.50 years] were given 0.25 mg dexamethasone at midnight, and serum cortisol concentrations were determined at 08:00 hours the following morning. Subjects were stratified into the 10% most glucocorticoid-sensitive and 10% most glucocorticoid-resistant according to the serum cortisol concentrations. Genomic DNA, RNA and plasma samples were obtained in the 22 subjects one month later. RESULTS Transcriptomic analysis showed variability between glucocorticoid-resistant and glucocorticoid-sensitive subjects. One hundred thirty-three genes were upregulated and 49 downregulated in the glucocorticoid-resistant compared to the glucocorticoid-sensitive group. Further analysis revealed differences between 3 glucocorticoid-resistant and 3 glucocorticoid-sensitive subjects. The majority of the 1058 upregulated genes and 1139 downregulated genes were found to participate in telomere maintenance, systemic lupus erythematosus and Alzheimer's disease. Interestingly, Synuclein A, a key molecule in Parkinson's disease, was upregulated in the subgroup of glucocorticoid-sensitive subjects. CONCLUSIONS We have identified differences in tissue sensitivity to glucocorticoids among healthy subjects at the transcriptomic level. These differences are associated with differential expression of genes related to autoimmune and neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas C Nicolaides
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros Polyzos
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Koniari
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agaristi Lamprokostopoulou
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ifigeneia Papageorgiou
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Golfinopoulou
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysanthi Papathanasiou
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Amalia Sertedaki
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Thanos
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George P Chrousos
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Charmandari
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Louw A. GR Dimerization and the Impact of GR Dimerization on GR Protein Stability and Half-Life. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1693. [PMID: 31379877 PMCID: PMC6653659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacologically, glucocorticoids, which mediate their effects via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), are a most effective therapy for inflammatory diseases despite the fact that chronic use causes side-effects and acquired GC resistance. The design of drugs with fewer side-effects and less potential for the development of resistance is therefore considered crucial for improved therapy. Dimerization of the GR is an integral step in glucocorticoid signaling and has been identified as a possible molecular site to target for drug development of anti-inflammatory drugs with an improved therapeutic index. Most of the current understanding regarding the role of GR dimerization in GC signaling derives for dimerization deficient mutants, although the role of ligands biased toward monomerization has also been described. Even though designing for loss of dimerization has mostly been applied for reduction of side-effect profile, designing for loss of dimerization may also be a fruitful strategy for the development of GC drugs with less potential to develop GC resistance. GC-induced resistance affects up to 30% of users and is due to a reduction in the GR functional pool. Several molecular mechanisms of GC-mediated reductions in GR pool have been described, one of which is the autologous down-regulation of GR density by the ubiquitin-proteasome-system (UPS). Loss of GR dimerization prevents autologous down-regulation of the receptor through modulation of interactions with components of the UPS and post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, which prime the GR for degradation. Rational design of conformationally biased ligands that select for a monomeric GR conformation, which increases GC sensitivity through improving GR protein stability and increasing half-life, may be a productive avenue to explore. However, potential drawbacks to this approach should be considered as well as the advantages and disadvantages in chronic vs. acute treatment regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Louw
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Song R, Hu XQ, Zhang L. Glucocorticoids and programming of the microenvironment in heart. J Endocrinol 2019; 242:T121-T133. [PMID: 31018174 PMCID: PMC6602534 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are primary stress hormones and can improve neonatal survival when given to pregnant women threatened by preterm birth or to preterm infants. It has become increasingly apparent that glucocorticoids, primarily by interacting with glucocorticoid receptors, play a critical role in late gestational cardiac maturation. Altered glucocorticoid actions contribute to the development and progression of heart disease. The knowledge gained from studies in the mature heart or cardiac damage is insufficient but a necessary starting point for understanding cardiac programming including programming of the cardiac microenvironment by glucocorticoids in the fetal heart. This review aims to highlight the potential roles of glucocorticoids in programming of the cardiac microenvironment, especially the supporting cells including endothelial cells, immune cells and fibroblasts. The molecular mechanisms by which glucocorticoids regulate the various cellular and extracellular components and the clinical relevance of glucocorticoid functions in the heart are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Song
- Correspondence to: Rui Song, PhD, , Lubo Zhang, PhD,
| | | | - Lubo Zhang
- Correspondence to: Rui Song, PhD, , Lubo Zhang, PhD,
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Wieczorek A, Perani CV, Nixon M, Constancia M, Sandovici I, Zazara DE, Leone G, Zhang MZ, Arck PC, Solano ME. Sex-specific regulation of stress-induced fetal glucocorticoid surge by the mouse placenta. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 317:E109-E120. [PMID: 30990748 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00551.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Antenatal stress increases the prevalence of diseases in later life, which shows a strong sex-specific effect. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Maternal glucocorticoids can be elevated by stress and are potential candidates to mediate the effects of stress on the offspring sex-specifically. A comprehensive evaluation of dynamic maternal and placental mechanisms modulating fetal glucocorticoid exposure upon maternal stress was long overdue. Here, we addressed this gap in knowledge by investigating sex-specific responses to midgestational stress in mice. We observed increased levels of maternal corticosterone, the main glucocorticoid in rodents, along with higher corticosteroid-binding globulin levels at midgestation in C57Bl/6 dams exposed to sound stress. This resulted in elevated corticosterone in female fetuses, whereas male offspring were unaffected. We identified that increased placental expression of the glucocorticoid-inactivating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2; Hsd11b2 gene) and ATP-binding cassette transporters, which mediate glucocorticoid efflux toward maternal circulation, protect male offspring from maternal glucocorticoid surges. We generated mice with an Hsd11b2 placental-specific disruption (Hsd11b2PKO) and observed moderately elevated corticosterone levels in offspring, along with increased body weight. Subsequently, we assessed downstream glucocorticoid receptors and observed a sex-specific differential modulation of placental Tsc22d3 expression, which encodes the glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper protein in response to stress. Taken together, our observations highlight the existence of unique and well-orchestrated mechanisms that control glucocorticoid transfer, exposure, and metabolism in the mouse placenta, pinpointing toward the existence of sex-specific fetal glucocorticoid exposure windows during gestation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Wieczorek
- Department for Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Clara V Perani
- Department for Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mark Nixon
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute , Edinburgh , United Kingdom
| | - Miguel Constancia
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrookes Hospital , Cambridge , United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre , Cambridge , United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge , Cambridge , United Kingdom
| | - Ionel Sandovici
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrookes Hospital , Cambridge , United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre , Cambridge , United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge , Cambridge , United Kingdom
| | - Dimitra E Zazara
- Department for Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gustavo Leone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina , Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Ming-Zhi Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Petra C Arck
- Department for Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - María Emilia Solano
- Department for Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Persistence of learning-induced synapses depends on neurotrophic priming of glucocorticoid receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:13097-13106. [PMID: 31182610 PMCID: PMC6601006 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1903203116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction upon activation of receptor tyrosine kinases by neurotrophins and nuclear receptors by glucocorticoids is essential for homeostasis. Phosphorylation (PO4) is one way these receptors communicate with one another to support homeostatic reactions in learning and memory. Using a newly developed glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-PO4–deficient knock-in mouse, we show that consolidation of learning-induced neuroplasticity depends on both GR-PO4 and neurotrophic signaling. Cross-talk between these pathways affects experience-dependent neuroplasticity and behavior, extending previous implications of neurotrophic priming of glucocorticoid response for adaptive plasticity to chronic stress and antidepressant response. Therefore, a disruption of cross-talk between these pathways by, for example, the misalignment of circadian glucocorticoid release and experience-dependent neurotrophic signaling may contribute to the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders. Stress can either promote or impair learning and memory. Such opposing effects depend on whether synapses persist or decay after learning. Maintenance of new synapses formed at the time of learning upon neuronal network activation depends on the stress hormone-activated glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and neurotrophic factor release. Whether and how concurrent GR and neurotrophin signaling integrate to modulate synaptic plasticity and learning is not fully understood. Here, we show that deletion of the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)–dependent GR-phosphorylation (PO4) sites impairs long-term memory retention and maintenance of newly formed postsynaptic dendritic spines in the mouse cortex after motor skills training. Chronic stress and the BDNF polymorphism Val66Met disrupt the BDNF-dependent GR-PO4 pathway necessary for preserving training-induced spines and previously acquired memories. Conversely, enrichment living promotes spine formation but fails to salvage training-related spines in mice lacking BDNF-dependent GR-PO4 sites, suggesting it is essential for spine consolidation and memory retention. Mechanistically, spine maturation and persistence in the motor cortex depend on synaptic mobilization of the glutamate receptor subunit A1 (GluA1) mediated by GR-PO4. Together, these findings indicate that regulation of GR-PO4 via activity-dependent BDNF signaling is important for the formation and maintenance of learning-dependent synapses. They also define a signaling mechanism underlying these effects.
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Song LC, Chen XX, Meng JG, Hu M, Huan JB, Wu J, Xiao K, Han ZH, Xie LX. Effects of different corticosteroid doses and durations on smoke inhalation-induced acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis in the rat. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 71:392-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Snow SJ, Henriquez AR, Costa DL, Kodavanti UP. Neuroendocrine Regulation of Air Pollution Health Effects: Emerging Insights. Toxicol Sci 2019; 164:9-20. [PMID: 29846720 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Air pollutant exposures are linked to cardiopulmonary diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, neurobehavioral conditions, and reproductive abnormalities. Significant effort is invested in understanding how pollutants encountered by the lung might induce effects in distant organs. The role of circulating mediators has been predicted; however, their origin and identity have not been confirmed. New evidence has emerged which implicates the role of neuroendocrine sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axes in mediating a wide array of systemic and pulmonary effects. Our recent studies using ozone exposure as a prototypical air pollutant demonstrate that increases in circulating adrenal-derived stress hormones (epinephrine and cortisol/corticosterone) contribute to lung injury/inflammation and metabolic effects in the liver, pancreas, adipose, and muscle tissues. When stress hormones are depleted by adrenalectomy in rats, most ozone effects including lung injury/inflammation are diminished. Animals treated with antagonists for adrenergic and glucocorticoid receptors show inhibition of the pulmonary and systemic effects of ozone, whereas treatment with agonists restore and exacerbate the ozone-induced injury/inflammation phenotype, implying the role of neuroendocrine activation. The neuroendocrine system is critical for normal homeostasis and allostatic activation; however, chronic exposure to stressors may lead to increases in allostatic load. The emerging mechanisms by which circulating mediators are released and are responsible for producing multiorgan effects of air pollutants insists upon a paradigm shift in the field of air pollution and health. Moreover, since these neuroendocrine responses are linked to both chemical and nonchemical stressors, the interactive influence of air pollutants, lifestyle, and environmental factors requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Snow
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
| | - Andres R Henriquez
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
| | - Daniel L Costa
- Emeritus, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
| | - Urmila P Kodavanti
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
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Monczor F, Chatzopoulou A, Zappia CD, Houtman R, Meijer OC, Fitzsimons CP. A Model of Glucocorticoid Receptor Interaction With Coregulators Predicts Transcriptional Regulation of Target Genes. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:214. [PMID: 30930776 PMCID: PMC6425864 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory factors that control gene transcription in multicellular organisms are assembled in multicomponent complexes by combinatorial interactions. In this context, nuclear receptors provide well-characterized and physiologically relevant systems to study ligand-induced transcription resulting from the integration of cellular and genomic information in a cell- and gene-specific manner. Here, we developed a mathematical model describing the interactions between the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and other components of a multifactorial regulatory complex controlling the transcription of GR-target genes, such as coregulator peptides. We support the validity of the model in relation to gene-specific GR transactivation with gene transcription data from A549 cells and in vitro real time quantification of coregulator-GR interactions. The model accurately describes and helps to interpret ligand-specific and gene-specific transcriptional regulation by the GR. The comprehensive character of the model allows future insight into the function and relative contribution of the molecular species proposed in ligand- and gene-specific transcriptional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Monczor
- Laboratorio de Farmacología de Receptores, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Antonia Chatzopoulou
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Carlos Daniel Zappia
- Laboratorio de Farmacología de Receptores, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - René Houtman
- PamGene International B.V., 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Carlos P Fitzsimons
- Neuroscience Collaboration, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Bittar TP, Nair BB, Kim JS, Chandrasekera D, Sherrington A, Iremonger KJ. Corticosterone mediated functional and structural plasticity in corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons. Neuropharmacology 2019; 154:79-86. [PMID: 30771372 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Corticosteroid stress hormones drive a multitude of adaptations in the brain. Hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons control the circulating levels of corticosteroid stress hormones in the body and are themselves highly sensitive to corticosteroids. CRH neurons have been shown to undergo various adaptions in response to acute stress hormone elevations. However, their structural and physiological changes under chronically elevated corticosterone are less clear. To address this, we determined the structural and functional changes in CRH neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus following 14 days of corticosterone treatment. We find that prolonged corticosterone elevation reduces CRH neuron intrinsic excitability as measured by summation of subthreshold postsynaptic depolarisations and spiking output. We find that under normal conditions, CRH neurons have a relatively compact and simple dendritic arbor, with a low density of somatic and dendritic spines. Interestingly, the axon originated from a proximal dendrite close to the soma in approximately half of the CRH neurons reconstructed. While prolonged elevation in corticosterone levels did not result in any changes to gross dendritic morphology, it induced a significant reduction in both somatic and dendritic spine density. Together these data reveal the morphological features of hypothalamic CRH neurons and highlight their capacity to undergo functional and morphological plasticity in response to chronic corticosterone elevations. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Hypothalamic Control of Homeostasis'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault P Bittar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Betina B Nair
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Joon S Kim
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Dhananjie Chandrasekera
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Aidan Sherrington
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Karl J Iremonger
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Morales-Rubio RA, Alvarado-Cruz I, Manzano-León N, Andrade-Oliva MDLA, Uribe-Ramirez M, Quintanilla-Vega B, Osornio-Vargas Á, De Vizcaya-Ruiz A. In utero exposure to ultrafine particles promotes placental stress-induced programming of renin-angiotensin system-related elements in the offspring results in altered blood pressure in adult mice. Part Fibre Toxicol 2019; 16:7. [PMID: 30691489 PMCID: PMC6350404 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-019-0289-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to particulate matter (PM) is associated with an adverse intrauterine environment, which can promote adult cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Ultrafine particles (UFP) (small size and large surface area/mass ratio) are systemically distributed, induce inflammation and oxidative stress, and have been associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction and arterial vasoconstriction, increasing hypertension risk. Placental stress and alterations in methylation of promoter regions of renin-angiotensin system (RAS)-related elements could be involved in UFP exposure-related programming of hypertension. We investigated whether in utero UFP exposure promotes placental stress by inflammation and oxidative stress, alterations in hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 11b-type 2 (HSD11B2) and programming of RAS-related elements, and result in altered blood pressure in adult offspring. UFP were collected from ambient air using an aerosol concentrator and physicochemically characterized. Pregnant C57BL/6J pun/pun female mice were exposed to collected UFP (400 μg/kg accumulated dose) by intratracheal instillation and compared to control (nonexposed) and sterile H2O (vehicle) exposed mice. Embryo reabsorption and placental stress by measurement of the uterus, placental and fetal weights, dam serum and fetal cortisol, placental HSD11B2 DNA methylation and protein levels, were evaluated. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) biotransformation (CYP1A1 and NQO1 (NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone)1)) enzymes, inflammation and oxidative stress in placentas and fetuses were measured. Postnatal day (PND) 50 in male offspring blood pressure was measured. Methylation and protein expression of (RAS)-related elements, angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) in fetuses and lungs of PND 50 male offspring were also assessed. Results In utero UFP exposure induced placental stress as indicated by an increase in embryo reabsorption, decreases in the uterus, placental, and fetal weights, and HSD11B2 hypermethylation and protein downregulation. In utero UFP exposure induced increases in the PAH-biotransforming enzymes, intrauterine oxidative damage and inflammation and stimulated programming and activation of AT1R and ACE, which resulted in increased blood pressure in the PND 50 male offspring. Conclusions In utero UFP exposure promotes placental stress through inflammation and oxidative stress, and programs RAS-related elements that result in altered blood pressure in the offspring. Exposure to UFP during fetal development could influence susceptibility to CVD in adulthood. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12989-019-0289-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell A Morales-Rubio
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Isabel Alvarado-Cruz
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Natalia Manzano-León
- Departamento de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Maria-de-Los-Angeles Andrade-Oliva
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Marisela Uribe-Ramirez
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Betzabet Quintanilla-Vega
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Andrea De Vizcaya-Ruiz
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de México, México.
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Olczak E, Kuryłowicz A, Wicik Z, Kołodziej P, Cąkała-Jakimowicz M, Buyanovskaya O, Ślusarczyk P, Mossakowska M, Puzianowska-Kuźnicka M. Glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1) gene polymorphisms are associated with age and blood parameters in Polish Caucasian nonagenarians and centenarians. Exp Gerontol 2018; 116:20-24. [PMID: 30553025 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polymorphism of the glucocorticoid receptor gene (NR3C1) may modify protein abundance or function and therefore disturb human homeostasis. METHODS Variant frequencies of the three NR3C1 polymorphisms, rs2963154, rs10515522 and rs2918418, selected in silico as associated with longevity, was analyzed in 552 DNA samples from 95 to 106-year-old individuals and in 284 samples of cord blood DNA from newborns. RESULTS Frequencies of the TT genotypes of rs2963154 and rs10515522, and of the rs291841 CC genotype, were higher in the long-lived study subjects (p = 0.002, p = 0.016 and p = 0.028, respectively). In the long-lived cohort, the rs2963154 CC genotype was associated with higher concentrations of total (p = 0.007) and high-density cholesterol (p = 0.039). The rs10515522 CC genotype was associated with a higher concentration of total cholesterol (p = 0.049). The rs2918418 GG genotype was associated with higher concentrations of total (p = 0.03) and low-density cholesterol (p = 0.03). None of the polymorphisms was associated with fasting glucose, C-reactive protein levels and white blood count, prevalence of diabetes, stroke, myocardial infarction, or cognitive function. However, carriers of the rs10515522 minor allele had significantly better survival rates than carriers of other genotypes. CONCLUSION NR3C1 polymorphisms modify cholesterol levels, and may affect the survival rates of individuals in their tenth and eleventh decades of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Olczak
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 166, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alina Kuryłowicz
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, PAS, Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Zofia Wicik
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, PAS, Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Paulina Kołodziej
- Medical Centre of Postgraduate Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Olga Buyanovskaya
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, PAS, Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Przemyslaw Ślusarczyk
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Księcia Trojdena 4, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland..
| | - Malgorzata Mossakowska
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Księcia Trojdena 4, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland..
| | - Monika Puzianowska-Kuźnicka
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, PAS, Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; Medical Centre of Postgraduate Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland.
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63
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Wilkinson L, Verhoog NJD, Louw A. Disease- and treatment-associated acquired glucocorticoid resistance. Endocr Connect 2018; 7:R328-R349. [PMID: 30352419 PMCID: PMC6280593 DOI: 10.1530/ec-18-0421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The development of resistance to glucocorticoids (GCs) in therapeutic regimens poses a major threat. Generally, GC resistance is congenital or acquired over time as a result of disease progression, prolonged GC treatment or, in some cases, both. Essentially, disruptions in the function and/or pool of the glucocorticoid receptor α (GRα) underlie this resistance. Many studies have detailed how alterations in GRα function lead to diminished GC sensitivity; however, the current review highlights the wealth of data concerning reductions in the GRα pool, mediated by disease-associated and treatment-associated effects, which contribute to a significant decrease in GC sensitivity. Additionally, the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in driving reductions in the GRα pool is discussed. After highlighting the importance of maintaining the level of the GRα pool to combat GC resistance, we present current strategies and argue that future strategies to prevent GC resistance should involve biased ligands with a predisposition for reduced GR dimerization, a strategy originally proposed as the SEMOGRAM-SEDIGRAM concept to reduce the side-effect profile of GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Legh Wilkinson
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | - Ann Louw
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Louw:
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64
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Santen RJ, Jewell CM, Yue W, Heitjan DF, Raff H, Katen KS, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoid Receptor Mutations and Hypersensitivity to Endogenous and Exogenous Glucocorticoids. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:3630-3639. [PMID: 30020469 PMCID: PMC6179182 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-00352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) consists of two alternatively spliced isoforms: GRα, which activates gene transcription, and GRβ, a dominant-negative receptor. Theoretically, inactivating variants of GRβ could result in glucocorticoid hypersensitivity. DESIGN A 46-year-old woman presented for evaluation of adrenal insufficiency prompted by low plasma cortisol levels and multiple unexplained symptoms but without clinical evidence of glucocorticoid insufficiency. To explain these findings, extensive clinical, genetic, and molecular studies were performed. METHODS Standard clinical methods assessed the patient's hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Validated molecular techniques were used for receptor sequencing, stable transfections, stimulation of candidate genes, cDNA arrays, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, volcano analysis, and isolation and analysis of the patient's mononuclear cells. RESULTS Clinical studies excluded primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency, established consistently low basal cortisol levels, and demonstrated hypersensitivity to ultra-low-dose dexamethasone. Receptor sequencing identified two variants of GR9β (A3669G and G3134T) as well as the known Bcl1 polymorphism. Reductionist studies using stable osteosarcoma cell lines transfected with the GRβ variants demonstrated glucocorticoid hypersensitivity of transcribed genes on cDNA array analysis. The patient's monocytes responded to hydrocortisone with exaggerated stimulation of the candidate genes GILZ and FKBP5. CONCLUSION Two variants of the dominant-negative GRβ, in conjunction with a common Bcl1 intron variant, resulted in hypersensitivity to endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids and, as a reflection of severity, low circulating cortisol levels without clinical evidence of glucocorticoid insufficiency. This prismatic case exemplifies the unique effects of variants of a dominant-negative receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Santen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Richard J. Santen, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Virginia Health System, PO Box 801416, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908. E-mail:
| | - Christine M Jewell
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Wei Yue
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Daniel F Heitjan
- Department of Statistical Science, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hershel Raff
- Endocrine Research Laboratory, Aurora Research Institute/Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Kevin S Katen
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - John A Cidlowski
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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65
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Gauthier A, Fisch A, Seuwen K, Baumgarten B, Ruffner H, Aebi A, Rausch M, Kiessling F, Bartneck M, Weiskirchen R, Tacke F, Storm G, Lammers T, Ludwig MG. Glucocorticoid-loaded liposomes induce a pro-resolution phenotype in human primary macrophages to support chronic wound healing. Biomaterials 2018; 178:481-495. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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66
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Olvera Alvarez HA, Kubzansky LD, Campen MJ, Slavich GM. Early life stress, air pollution, inflammation, and disease: An integrative review and immunologic model of social-environmental adversity and lifespan health. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 92:226-242. [PMID: 29874545 PMCID: PMC6082389 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Socially disadvantaged individuals are at greater risk for simultaneously being exposed to adverse social and environmental conditions. Although the mechanisms underlying joint effects remain unclear, one hypothesis is that toxic social and environmental exposures have synergistic effects on inflammatory processes that underlie the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and certain types of cancer. In the present review, we examine how exposure to two risk factors that commonly occur with social disadvantage-early life stress and air pollution-affect health. Specifically, we identify neuroimmunologic pathways that could link early life stress, inflammation, air pollution, and poor health, and use this information to propose an integrated, multi-level model that describes how these factors may interact and cause health disparity across individuals based on social disadvantage. This model highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research considering multiple exposures across domains and the potential for synergistic, cross-domain effects on health, and may help identify factors that could potentially be targeted to reduce disease risk and improve lifespan health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector A Olvera Alvarez
- School of Nursing, University of Texas at El Paso, Health Science and Nursing Building, Room 359, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX, USA.
| | - Laura D Kubzansky
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew J Campen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - George M Slavich
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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67
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Rooney JP, Ryan N, Chorley BN, Hester SD, Kenyon EM, Schmid JE, George BJ, Hughes MF, Sey YM, Tennant A, MacMillan DK, Simmons JE, McQueen CA, Pandiri A, Wood CE, Corton JC. From the Cover: Genomic Effects of Androstenedione and Sex-Specific Liver Cancer Susceptibility in Mice. Toxicol Sci 2018; 160:15-29. [PMID: 28973534 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current strategies for predicting carcinogenic mode of action for nongenotoxic chemicals are based on identification of early key events in toxicity pathways. The goal of this study was to evaluate short-term key event indicators resulting from exposure to androstenedione (A4), an androgen receptor agonist and known liver carcinogen in mice. Liver cancer is more prevalent in men compared with women, but androgen-related pathways underlying this sex difference have not been clearly identified. Short-term hepatic effects of A4 were compared with reference agonists of the estrogen receptor (ethinyl estradiol, EE) and glucocorticoid receptor (prednisone, PRED). Male B6C3F1 mice were exposed for 7 or 28 days to A4, EE, or PRED. EE increased and PRED suppressed hepatocyte proliferation, while A4 had no detectable effects. In a microarray analysis, EE and PRED altered >3000 and >670 genes, respectively, in a dose-dependent manner, whereas A4 did not significantly alter any genes. Gene expression was subsequently examined in archival liver samples from male and female B6C3F1 mice exposed to A4 for 90 days. A4 altered more genes in females than males and did not alter expression of genes linked to activation of the mitogenic xenobiotic receptors AhR, CAR, and PPARα in either sex. A gene expression biomarker was used to show that in female mice, the high dose of A4 activated the growth hormone-regulated transcription factor STAT5b, which controls sexually dimorphic gene expression in the liver. These findings suggest that A4 induces subtle age-related effects on STAT5b signaling that may contribute to the higher risk of liver cancer in males compared with females.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Rooney
- Office of Research and Development, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).,Integrated Systems Toxicology Division
| | - Natalia Ryan
- Office of Research and Development, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).,Integrated Systems Toxicology Division
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Charlene A McQueen
- Office of the Director, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory (NHEERL), U.S. EPA, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
| | - Arun Pandiri
- National Toxicology Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27711
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Abstract
Resistance to steroid hormones presents a serious problem with respect to their mass use in therapy. It may be caused genetically by mutation of genes involved in hormonal signaling, not only steroid receptors, but also other players in the signaling cascade as co-regulators and other nuclear factors, mediating the hormone-born signal. Another possibility is acquired resistance which may develop under long-term steroid treatment, of which a particular case is down regulation of the receptors. In the review recent knowledge is summarized on the mechanism of main steroid hormone action, pointing to already proven or potential sites causing steroid resistance. We have attempted to address following questions: 1) What does stay behind differences among patients as to their response to the (anti)steroid treatment? 2) Why do various tissues/cells respond differently to the same steroid hormone though they contain the same receptors? 3) Are such differences genetically dependent? The main attention was devoted to glucocorticoids as the most frequently used steroid therapeutics. Further, androgen insensitivity is discussed with a particular attention to acquired resistance to androgen deprivation therapy of prostate cancer. Finally the potential causes are outlined of breast and related cancer(s) resistance to antiestrogen therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hampl
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
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69
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Olvera Alvarez HA, Appleton AA, Fuller CH, Belcourt A, Kubzansky LD. An Integrated Socio-Environmental Model of Health and Well-Being: a Conceptual Framework Exploring the Joint Contribution of Environmental and Social Exposures to Health and Disease Over the Life Span. Curr Environ Health Rep 2018; 5:233-243. [PMID: 29574677 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-018-0191-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW Environmental and social determinants of health often co-occur, particularly among socially disadvantaged populations, yet because they are usually studied separately, their joint effects on health are likely underestimated. Building on converging bodies of literature, we delineate a conceptual framework to address these issues. RECENT FINDINGS Previous models provided a foundation for study in this area, and generated research pointing to additional important issues. These include a stronger focus on biobehavioral pathways, both positive and adverse health outcomes, and intergenerational effects. To accommodate the expanded set of issues, we put forward the Integrated Socio-Environmental Model of Health and Well-Being (ISEM), which examines how social and environmental factors combine and potentially interact, via multi-factorial pathways, to affect health and well-being over the life span. We then provide applied examples including the study of how food environments affect dietary behavior. The ISEM provides a comprehensive, theoretically informed framework to guide future research on the joint contribution of social and environmental factors to health and well-being across the life span.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector A Olvera Alvarez
- School of Nursing, University of Texas El Paso, 500 W. University Ave, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
| | - Allison A Appleton
- School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Christina H Fuller
- School of Public Health, Division of Environmental Health, Georgia State University, P.O. Box 3995, Atlanta, GA, 30302, USA
| | - Annie Belcourt
- School of Community and Public Health Sciences/Pharmacy Practice, University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Laura D Kubzansky
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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70
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Ayroldi E, Cannarile L, Delfino DV, Riccardi C. A dual role for glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper in glucocorticoid function: tumor growth promotion or suppression? Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:463. [PMID: 29695779 PMCID: PMC5916931 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0558-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs), important therapeutic tools to treat inflammatory and immunosuppressive diseases, can also be used as part of cancer therapy. In oncology, GCs are used as anticancer drugs for lymphohematopoietic malignancies, while in solid neoplasms primarily to control the side effects of chemo/radiotherapy treatments. The molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of GCs are numerous and often overlapping, but not all have been elucidated. In normal, cancerous, and inflammatory tissues, the response to GCs differs based on the tissue type. The effects of GCs are dependent on several factors: the tumor type, the GC therapy being used, the expression level of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and the presence of any other stimuli such as signals from immune cells and the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, GCs may either promote or suppress tumor growth via different molecular mechanisms. Stress exposure results in dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis with increased levels of endogenous GCs that promote tumorigenesis, confirming the importance of GCs in tumor growth. Most of the effects of GCs are genomic and mediated by the modulation of GR gene transcription. Moreover, among the GR-induced genes, glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), which was cloned and characterized primarily in our laboratory, mediates many GC anti-inflammatory effects. In this review, we analyzed the possible role for GILZ in the effects GCs have on tumors cells. We also suggest that GILZ, by affecting the immune system, tumor microenvironment, and directly cancer cell biology, has a tumor-promoting function. However, it may also induce apoptosis or decrease the proliferation of cancer cells, thus inhibiting tumor growth. The potential therapeutic implications of GILZ activity on tumor cells are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emira Ayroldi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Lorenza Cannarile
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Domenico V Delfino
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Carlo Riccardi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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71
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Sulaiman RS, Kadmiel M, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoid receptor signaling in the eye. Steroids 2018; 133:60-66. [PMID: 29129720 PMCID: PMC5875721 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) are essential steroid hormones that regulate numerous metabolic and homeostatic functions in almost all physiological systems. Synthetic glucocorticoids are among the most commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of various conditions including autoimmune, allergic and inflammatory diseases. Glucocorticoids are mainly used for their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities mediated through signal transduction by their nuclear receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Emerging evidence showing that diverse physiological and therapeutic actions of glucocorticoids are tissue-, cell-, and sex-specific, suggests more complex actions of glucocorticoids than previously anticipated. While several synthetic glucocorticoids are widely used in the ophthalmology clinic for the treatment of several ocular diseases, little is yet known about the mechanism of glucocorticoid signaling in different layers of the eye. GR has been shown to be expressed in different cell types of the eye such as cornea, lens, and retina, suggesting an important role of GR signaling in the physiology of these ocular tissues. In this review, we provide an update on the recent findings from in vitro and in vivo studies reported in the last 5 years that aim at understanding the role of GR signaling specifically in the eye. Advances in studying the physiological effects of glucocorticoids in the eye are vital for the elaboration of optimized and targeted GC therapies with potent anti-inflammatory potential while minimizing adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania S Sulaiman
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Mahita Kadmiel
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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72
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Panagiotou C, Mihailidou C, Brauhli G, Katsarou O, Moutsatsou P. Effect of steviol, steviol glycosides and stevia extract on glucocorticoid receptor signaling in normal and cancer blood cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 460:189-199. [PMID: 28754349 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The use of steviol glycosides as non-caloric sweeteners has proven to be beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), obesity, and metabolic syndrome. However, recent data demonstrate that steviol and stevioside might act as glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonists and thus correlate with adverse effects on metabolism. Herein, we evaluated the impact of steviol, steviol glycosides, and a Greek-derived stevia extract on a number of key steps of GR signaling cascade in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and in Jurkat leukemia cells. Our results revealed that none of the tested compounds altered the expression of primary GR-target genes (GILZ, FKPB5), GR protein levels or GR subcellular localization in PBMCs; those compounds increased GILZ and FKPB5 mRNA levels as well as GRE-mediated luciferase activity, inducing in parallel GR nuclear translocation in Jurkat cells. The GR-modulatory activity demonstrated by stevia-compounds in Jurkat cells but not in PBMCs may be due to a cell-type specific effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Panagiotou
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University General Hospital "ATTIKO", Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysovalantou Mihailidou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Olga Katsarou
- 2nd Blood Transfusion Center and Hemophilia Center, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Moutsatsou
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University General Hospital "ATTIKO", Athens, Greece.
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VanPatten S, Al-Abed Y. High Mobility Group Box-1 (HMGb1): Current Wisdom and Advancement as a Potential Drug Target. J Med Chem 2018; 61:5093-5107. [PMID: 29268019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
High mobility group box-1 (HMGb1) protein, a nuclear non-histone protein that is released or secreted from the cell in response to damage or stress, is a sentinel for the immune system that plays a critical role in cell survival/death pathways. This review highlights key features of the endogenous danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) protein, HMGb1 in the innate inflammatory response along with various cofactors and receptors that regulate its downstream effects. The evidence demonstrating increased levels of HMGb1 in human inflammatory diseases and conditions is presented, along with a summary of current small molecule or peptide-like antagonists proven to specifically target HMGb1. Additionally, we delineate the measures needed toward validating this protein as a clinically relevant biomarker or bioindicator and as a relevant drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya VanPatten
- Center for Molecular Innovation , The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research , 350 Community Drive , Manhasset , New York 11030 , United States
| | - Yousef Al-Abed
- Center for Molecular Innovation , The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research , 350 Community Drive , Manhasset , New York 11030 , United States
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Liberman AC, Budziñski ML, Sokn C, Gobbini RP, Steininger A, Arzt E. Regulatory and Mechanistic Actions of Glucocorticoids on T and Inflammatory Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:235. [PMID: 29867767 PMCID: PMC5964134 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) play an important role in regulating the inflammatory and immune response and have been used since decades to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. Fine-tuning the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity is instrumental in the search for novel therapeutic strategies aimed to reduce pathological signaling and restoring homeostasis. Despite the primary anti-inflammatory actions of GCs, there are studies suggesting that under certain conditions GCs may also exert pro-inflammatory responses. For these reasons the understanding of the GR basic mechanisms of action on different immune cells in the periphery (e.g., macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and T cells) and in the brain (microglia) contexts, that we review in this chapter, is a continuous matter of interest and may reveal novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of immune and inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Liberman
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maia L. Budziñski
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara Sokn
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina Paula Gobbini
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anja Steininger
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eduardo Arzt
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA) – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Eduardo Arzt,
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75
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Emerging role of amyloid beta in stress response: Implication for depression and diabetes. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 817:22-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Clarisse D, Thommis J, Van Wesemael K, Houtman R, Ratman D, Tavernier J, Offner F, Beck I, De Bosscher K. Coregulator profiling of the glucocorticoid receptor in lymphoid malignancies. Oncotarget 2017; 8:109675-109691. [PMID: 29312638 PMCID: PMC5752551 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Coregulators cooperate with nuclear receptors, such as the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), to enhance or repress transcription. These regulatory proteins are implicated in cancer, yet, their role in lymphoid malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), is largely unknown. Here, we report the use and extension of the microarray assay for real-time nuclear receptor coregulator interactions (MARCoNI) technology to detect coregulator associations with endogenous GR in cell lysates. We use MARCoNI to determine the GR coregulator profile of glucocorticoid-sensitive (MM and ALL) and glucocorticoid-resistant (ALL) cells, and identify common and unique coregulators for different cell line comparisons. Overall, we identify SRC-1/2/3, PGC-1α, RIP140 and DAX-1 as the strongest interacting coregulators of GR in MM and ALL cells and show that the interaction strength does not correlate with GR protein levels. Lastly, as a step towards patient samples, we determine the GR coregulator profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We profile the interactions between GR and coregulators in MM and ALL cells and suggest to further explore the GR coregulator profile in hematological patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorien Clarisse
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab (NRL) and Cytokine Receptor Lab (CRL), VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research (LECR), Department of Radiation Oncology and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Thommis
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab (NRL) and Cytokine Receptor Lab (CRL), VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karlien Van Wesemael
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research (LECR), Department of Radiation Oncology and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - René Houtman
- PamGene International B.V., 's Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Dariusz Ratman
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab (NRL) and Cytokine Receptor Lab (CRL), VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Current/Present address: Roche Global IT Solutions, Roche-Polska, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jan Tavernier
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab (NRL) and Cytokine Receptor Lab (CRL), VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fritz Offner
- Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ilse Beck
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research (LECR), Department of Radiation Oncology and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Health Sciences, Odisee University College, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karolien De Bosscher
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab (NRL) and Cytokine Receptor Lab (CRL), VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
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77
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Engert LC, Weiler U, Stefanski V, Schmucker SS. Glucocorticoid receptor number and affinity differ between peripheral blood mononuclear cells and granulocytes in domestic pigs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2017; 61:11-16. [PMID: 28554109 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to characterize the number and affinity of glucocorticoid receptors (GR) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and granulocytes of domestic pigs because glucocorticoid signaling is considered important for animal health and welfare. To investigate GR binding characteristics in intact porcine immune cells, blood samples of 6 castrated male pigs were collected via indwelling vein catheters. Porcine PBMC and granulocytes were isolated using two-layer density gradients, followed by radioligand binding assays to determine the number of GR sites per cell and the dissociation constant Kd as a measure for GR binding affinity. The present study revealed a greater number of GR sites per cell (P = 0.039) in PBMC (mean ± SEM: 1,953 ± 207 sites/cell) compared to granulocytes (1,561 ± 159 sites/cell) in domestic pigs. Furthermore, porcine PBMC had a higher GR binding affinity than porcine granulocytes (P = 0.003) as the dissociation constant Kd of PBMC (1.8 ± 0.2 nM) was lower than that of granulocytes (3.5 ± 0.4 nM). Our results point to differences in underlying mechanisms of glucocorticoid signaling in different porcine leukocyte populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Engert
- Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr. 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - U Weiler
- Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr. 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - V Stefanski
- Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr. 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - S S Schmucker
- Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr. 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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78
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Zielińska KA, de Cauwer L, Knoops S, Van der Molen K, Sneyers A, Thommis J, De Souza JB, Opdenakker G, De Bosscher K, Van den Steen PE. Plasmodium berghei NK65 in Combination with IFN-γ Induces Endothelial Glucocorticoid Resistance via Sustained Activation of p38 and JNK. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1199. [PMID: 29033931 PMCID: PMC5625030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (MA-ARDS) is an often lethal complication of malaria. Currently, no adequate therapy for this syndrome exists. Although glucocorticoids (GCs) have been used to improve clinical outcome of ARDS, their therapeutic benefits remain unclear. We previously developed a mouse model of MA-ARDS, in which dexamethasone treatment revealed GC resistance. In the present study, we investigated GC sensitivity of mouse microvascular lung endothelial cells stimulated with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and Plasmodium berghei NK65 (PbNK65). Upon challenge with IFN-γ alone, dexamethasone inhibited the expression of CCL5 (RANTES) by 90% and both CCL2 (MCP-1) and CXCL10 (IP-10) by 50%. Accordingly, whole transcriptome analysis revealed that dexamethasone differentially affected several gene clusters and in particular inhibited a large cluster of IFN-γ-induced genes, including chemokines. In contrast, combined stimulation with IFN-γ and PbNK65 extract impaired inhibitory actions of GCs on chemokine release, without affecting the capacity of the GC receptor to accumulate in the nucleus. Subsequently, we investigated the effects of GCs on two signaling pathways activated by IFN-γ. Dexamethasone left phosphorylation and protein levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) unhampered. In contrast, dexamethasone inhibited the IFN-γ-induced activation of two mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), JNK, and p38. However, PbNK65 extract abolished the inhibitory effects of GCs on MAPK signaling, inducing GC resistance. These data provide novel insights into the mechanisms of GC actions in endothelial cells and show how malaria may impair the beneficial effects of GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina A Zielińska
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lode de Cauwer
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab, VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sofie Knoops
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristof Van der Molen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alexander Sneyers
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Thommis
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab, VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Brian De Souza
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ghislain Opdenakker
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karolien De Bosscher
- Receptor Research Laboratories, Nuclear Receptor Lab, VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Philippe E Van den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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79
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Zhao Y, Xiong RP, Chen X, Li P, Ning YL, Yang N, Peng Y, Jiang YL, Zhou YG. Hsp90 regulation affects the treatment of glucocorticoid for pancreatitis-induced lung injury. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 440:189-197. [PMID: 28828564 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3166-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are commonly used for the treatment of pancreatitis and complicated acute lung injury and help to reduce the mortality rates of both. The effect of gene variants in heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), a key chaperone molecule of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), on the therapeutic effect of glucocorticoids is unclear. Our study aims to investigate the different susceptibility to glucocorticoid treatment in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice carrying different Hsp90 genotypes in an animal model of pancreatitis-induced lung injury. Compared with BALB/c mice, C57BL/6 mice have lower mortality rates, decreased water content in their lungs, and a lower level of IL-1 beta in an animal model of acute pancreatitis. C57BL/6 mice show a greater therapeutic effect and increased GR binding activities with glucocorticoid responsive element compared to BALB/c mice after a 0.4 mg/kg dexamethasone (DEX) treatment. Treatment with a higher dose of DEX (4 mg/kg) significantly reduced mortality rates and increased GR-GRE binding activity in both strains of mice, and there was no significant difference between the two strains. DEX did not exert a protective role after geldanamycin, a specific inhibitor of Hsp90, was administered in both strains of mice. Our study revealed that Hsp90 gene variants are responsible for the greater therapeutic effect of DEX in C57BL/6 mice compared to BALB/c mice, which implies that combining DEX treatment with Hsp90 regulation would promote the efficiency of DEX and would be an effective way to alleviate the side effects of hormone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ren-Ping Xiong
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ping Li
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ya-Lei Ning
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Nan Yang
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yan Peng
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yu-Lin Jiang
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yuan-Guo Zhou
- Molecular Biology Center, The State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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80
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Compound A influences gene regulation of the Dexamethasone-activated glucocorticoid receptor by alternative cofactor recruitment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8063. [PMID: 28808239 PMCID: PMC5556032 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07941-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a transcription factor of which the underlying gene regulatory mechanisms are complex and incompletely understood. The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory Compound A (CpdA), a selective GR modulating compound in various cell models, has been shown to favour GR-mediated gene repression but not GR-mediated gene activation. Shifting balances towards only a particular subset of GR gene regulatory events may be of benefit in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. We present evidence to support that the combination of CpdA with Dexamethasone (DEX), a classic steroidal GR ligand, can shape GR function towards a unique gene regulatory profile in a cell type-dependent manner. The molecular basis hereof is a changed GR phosphorylation status concomitant with a change in the GR cofactor recruitment profile. We subsequently identified and confirmed the orphan nuclear receptor SHP as a coregulator that is specifically enriched at GR when CpdA and DEX are combined. Combining CpdA with DEX not only leads to stronger suppression of pro-inflammatory gene expression, but also enhanced anti-inflammatory GR target gene expression in epithelial cells, making ligand combination strategies in future a potentially attractive alternative manner of skewing and fine-tuning GR effects towards an improved therapeutic benefit.
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81
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Cuffe JSM, Saif Z, Perkins AV, Moritz KM, Clifton VL. Dexamethasone and sex regulate placental glucocorticoid receptor isoforms in mice. J Endocrinol 2017; 234:89-100. [PMID: 28490442 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Maternal dexamethasone exposure in the mouse impairs placental development and programs adult disease in a sexually dimorphic manner. Glucocorticoids bind to different glucocorticoid receptor (GR) isoforms to regulate gene transcription and cellular signaling. We hypothesized that sexually dimorphic placental responses to glucocorticoids are due to differences in GR isoforms present in the placenta. Pregnant C57Bl6 mice were exposed to saline or dexamethasone from E12.5 until E14.5 (1 µg/kg/h) before the collection of placentae. Cytoplasmic and nuclear protein fractions were extracted from placentae of male and female fetuses for Western blot analysis of GR isoforms. Eight known isoforms of the GR were detected in the mouse placenta including the translational isoforms GRα-A, B, C and D1-3 and the splice variants GRA and GRP. The expression of GRA, GRP and each of the GRα isoforms were altered by dexamethasone in relation to fetal sex and cellular location. Placentae of female fetuses had higher GRα-A and GRP expression in the cytoplasm than males, and GRα-C was more highly expressed in the nucleus of females than that in males. Dexamethasone significantly increased the cytoplasmic expression of GRα-A, but reduced the expression of GRα-C in placentae of males. Dexamethasone increased the expression of the GRα-C-regulated genes Sgk1 and Bcl2l11, particularly in females. The cleaved caspase-3 staining in placental sections indicated GRα-C may mediate sex differences in dexamethasone-induced apoptosis. These findings may underlie the sex-specific placental adaptations that regulate different growth profiles in males and females and different risks for programmed disease outcomes in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S M Cuffe
- School of Medical Science and Menzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciencesand Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Mater Research InstituteTranslational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zarqa Saif
- Mater Research InstituteTranslational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anthony V Perkins
- School of Medical Science and Menzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Karen M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciencesand Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Research InstituteTranslational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
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82
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Abstract
Glucocorticoids via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) have effects on a variety of cell types, eliciting important physiological responses via changes in gene expression and signaling. Although decades of research have illuminated the mechanism of how this important steroid receptor controls gene expression using
in vitro and cell culture–based approaches, how GR responds to changes in external signals
in vivo under normal and pathological conditions remains elusive. The goal of this review is to highlight recent work on GR action in fat cells and liver to affect metabolism
in vivo and the role GR ligands and receptor phosphorylation play in calibrating signaling outputs by GR in the brain in health and disease. We also suggest that both the brain and fat tissue communicate to affect physiology and behavior and that understanding this “brain-fat axis” will enable a more complete understanding of metabolic diseases and inform new ways to target them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Garabedian
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, Alexandria Center for Life Sciences, 450 East 29th Street, Room 324, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Charles A Harris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Freddy Jeanneteau
- Departments of Physiology and Neuroscience, Institute of Functional Genomics, INSERM U1191, CNRS UMR5203, University of Montpellier, 34094 Montpellier, France
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83
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The nature of the GRE influences the screening for GR-activity enhancing modulators. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181101. [PMID: 28686666 PMCID: PMC5501670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid resistance (GCR), i.e. unresponsiveness to the beneficial anti-inflammatory activities of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), poses a serious problem in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. One possible solution to try and overcome GCR, is to identify molecules that prevent or revert GCR by hyper-stimulating the biological activity of the GR. To this purpose, we screened for compounds that potentiate the dexamethasone (Dex)-induced transcriptional activity of GR. To monitor GR transcriptional activity, the screen was performed using the lung epithelial cell line A549 in which a glucocorticoid responsive element (GRE) coupled to a luciferase reporter gene construct was stably integrated. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) such as Vorinostat and Belinostat are two broad-spectrum HDACi that strongly increased the Dex-induced luciferase expression in our screening system. In sharp contrast herewith, results from a genome-wide transcriptome analysis of Dex-induced transcripts using RNAseq, revealed that Belinostat impairs the ability of GR to transactivate target genes. The stimulatory effect of Belinostat in the luciferase screen further depends on the nature of the reporter construct. In conclusion, a profound discrepancy was observed between HDACi effects on two different synthetic promoter-luciferase reporter systems. The favorable effect of HDACi on gene expression should be evaluated with care, when considering them as potential therapeutic agents. GEO accession number GSE96649.
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84
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Quinkler M, Murray RD. In Response to: Prednisolone Replacement Therapy Mimics the Circadian Rhythm More Closely than Other Glucocorticoids. J Appl Lab Med 2017; 1:753-755. [DOI: 10.1373/jalm.2016.022616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert D Murray
- Department of Endocrinology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
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85
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Buoso E, Galasso M, Ronfani M, Serafini MM, Lanni C, Corsini E, Racchi M. Role of spliceosome proteins in the regulation of glucocorticoid receptor isoforms by cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone. Pharmacol Res 2017; 120:180-187. [PMID: 28373129 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) can counteract the activity of cortisol by modulating the glucocorticoid receptor β (GRβ) expression and antagonizing the binding of GRα to the glucocorticoid responsive element (GRE) in RACK1 (Receptor for Activated C Kinase 1) promoter. These observations are important in the context of immunosenescence and can be extended to recognize a complex hormonal balance in the control of GR isoform expression and consequently in the expression of GR responsive genes. To elucidate the mechanism of DHEA on GR alternative splicing, we investigated its possible involvement in the expression of proteins such as the Serine/arginine (SR)-Rich Splicing Factors (SRSF) regulating GR splicing, specifically SRSF9 and SRSF3 also known as SRp30c and SRp20 respectively. We demonstrated that DHEA can induce the up-regulation of GR mRNA which is preferentially directed toward the β isoform. The effect is due to an increase in expression of the splicing factor SRSF9. On the other hand cortisol up-regulated SRSF3, the splicing factor promoting GRα isoform. We demonstrated that DHEA and cortisol modulate SRSF9 and SRSF3 in a different way and our data suggest that the anti-glucocorticoid effect of DHEA, among other mechanisms, is also exerted by modulating the expression of proteins involved in the splicing of the GR pre-mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Buoso
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Marilisa Galasso
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Melania Ronfani
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Melania Maria Serafini
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS Pavia, Piazza della Vittoria n.15, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Lanni
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Corsini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Racchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco - Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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86
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Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs; referred to clinically as corticosteroids) are steroid hormones with potent anti-inflammatory and immune modulatory profiles. Depending on the context, these hormones can also mediate pro-inflammatory activities, thereby serving as primers of the immune system. Their target receptor, the GC receptor (GR), is a multi-tasking transcription factor, changing its role and function depending on cellular and organismal needs. To get a clearer idea of how to improve the safety profile of GCs, recent studies have investigated the complex mechanisms underlying GR functions. One of the key findings includes both pro- and anti-inflammatory roles of GR, and a future challenge will be to understand how such paradoxical findings can be reconciled and how GR ultimately shifts the balance to a net anti-inflammatory profile. As such, there is consensus that GR deserves a second life as a drug target, with either refined classic GCs or a novel generation of nonsteroidal GR-targeting molecules, to meet the increasing clinical needs of today to treat inflammation and cancer.
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87
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Quinkler M, Ekman B, Marelli C, Uddin S, Zelissen P, Murray RD. Prednisolone is associated with a worse lipid profile than hydrocortisone in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Endocr Connect 2017; 6:1-8. [PMID: 27864317 PMCID: PMC5148794 DOI: 10.1530/ec-16-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prednisolone is used as glucocorticoid replacement therapy for adrenal insufficiency (AI). Recent data indicate that its use in AI is associated with low bone mineral density. Data on risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with AI treated with prednisolone are scarce, despite this condition being the predominant cause of excess mortality. We aimed to address this question using real-world data from the European Adrenal Insufficiency Registry (EU-AIR). DESIGN/METHODS EU-AIR, comprising of 19 centres across Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and the UK, commenced enrolling patients with AI in August 2012. Patients receiving prednisolone (3-6 mg/day, n = 50) or hydrocortisone (15-30 mg/day, n = 909) were identified and grouped at a ratio of 1:3 (prednisolone:hydrocortisone) by matching for gender, age, duration and type of disease. Data from baseline and follow-up visits were analysed. Data from patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia were excluded. RESULTS Significantly higher mean ± s.d. total (6.3 ± 1.6 vs 5.4 ± 1.1 mmol/L; P = 0.003) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (3.9 ± 1.4 vs 3.2 ± 1.0 mmol/L; P = 0.013) were identified in 47 patients on prednisolone vs 141 receiving hydrocortisone at baseline and at follow-up (P = 0.005 and P = 0.006, respectively). HbA1c, high-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and waist circumference were not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS This is the first matched analysis of its kind. Significantly higher LDL levels in patients receiving prednisolone relative to hydrocortisone could predict a higher relative risk of cardiovascular disease in the former group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bertil Ekman
- Departments of Endocrinology and Medical and Health SciencesLinköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | | | - Pierre Zelissen
- Department of Internal Medicine and EndocrinologyUniversity Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Robert D Murray
- Department of EndocrinologyLeeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
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88
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Wippert PM, Rector M, Kuhn G, Wuertz-Kozak K. Stress and Alterations in Bones: An Interdisciplinary Perspective. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:96. [PMID: 28507534 PMCID: PMC5410657 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Decades of research have demonstrated that physical stress (PS) stimulates bone remodeling and affects bone structure and function through complex mechanotransduction mechanisms. Recent research has laid ground to the hypothesis that mental stress (MS) also influences bone biology, eventually leading to osteoporosis and increased bone fracture risk. These effects are likely exerted by modulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, resulting in an altered release of growth hormones, glucocorticoids and cytokines, as demonstrated in human and animal studies. Furthermore, molecular cross talk between mental and PS is thought to exist, with either synergistic or preventative effects on bone disease progression depending on the characteristics of the applied stressor. This mini review will explain the emerging concept of MS as an important player in bone adaptation and its potential cross talk with PS by summarizing the current state of knowledge, highlighting newly evolving notions (such as intergenerational transmission of stress and its epigenetic modifications affecting bone) and proposing new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia-Maria Wippert
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Sociology of Health and Physical Activity, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Pia-Maria Wippert,
| | - Michael Rector
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Sociology of Health and Physical Activity, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Gisela Kuhn
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Sociology of Health and Physical Activity, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Schön Klinik München Harlaching, Munich, Germany
- Spine Center, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute, Paracelsus Private Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Competence Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine (CABMM), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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89
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Spencer RL, Deak T. A users guide to HPA axis research. Physiol Behav 2016; 178:43-65. [PMID: 27871862 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones (cortisol and corticosterone - CORT) are the effector hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis neuroendocrine system. CORT is a systemic intercellular signal whose level predictably varies with time of day and dynamically increases with environmental and psychological stressors. This hormonal signal is utilized by virtually every cell and physiological system of the body to optimize performance according to circadian, environmental and physiological demands. Disturbances in normal HPA axis activity profiles are associated with a wide variety of physiological and mental health disorders. Despite numerous studies to date that have identified molecular, cellular and systems-level glucocorticoid actions, new glucocorticoid actions and clinical status associations continue to be revealed at a brisk pace in the scientific literature. However, the breadth of investigators working in this area poses distinct challenges in ensuring common practices across investigators, and a full appreciation for the complexity of a system that is often reduced to a single dependent measure. This Users Guide is intended to provide a fundamental overview of conceptual, technical and practical knowledge that will assist individuals who engage in and evaluate HPA axis research. We begin with examination of the anatomical and hormonal components of the HPA axis and their physiological range of operation. We then examine strategies and best practices for systematic manipulation and accurate measurement of HPA axis activity. We feature use of experimental methods that will assist with better understanding of CORT's physiological actions, especially as those actions impact subsequent brain function. This research approach is instrumental for determining the mechanisms by which alterations of HPA axis function may contribute to pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Spencer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
| | - Terrence Deak
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University - SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
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90
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Hawley JM, Keevil BG. Endogenous glucocorticoid analysis by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in routine clinical laboratories. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 162:27-40. [PMID: 27208627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is a powerful analytical technique that offers exceptional selectivity and sensitivity. Used optimally, LC-MS/MS provides accurate and precise results for a wide range of analytes at concentrations that are difficult to quantitate with other methodologies. Its implementation into routine clinical biochemistry laboratories has revolutionised our ability to analyse small molecules such as glucocorticoids. Whereas immunoassays can suffer from matrix effects and cross-reactivity due to interactions with structural analogues, the selectivity offered by LC-MS/MS has largely overcome these limitations. As many clinical guidelines are now beginning to acknowledge the importance of the methodology used to provide results, the advantages associated with LC-MS/MS are gaining wider recognition. With their integral role in both the diagnosis and management of hypo- and hyperadrenal disorders, coupled with their widespread pharmacological use, the accurate measurement of glucocorticoids is fundamental to effective patient care. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of the LC-MS/MS techniques used to successfully measure endogenous glucocorticoids, particular reference is made to serum, urine and salivary cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian G Keevil
- University Hospital South Manchester, Manchester, UK; Manchester Healthcare Academy, Manchester, UK
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91
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Smith SS, Dole NS, Franceschetti T, Hrdlicka HC, Delany AM. MicroRNA-433 Dampens Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling, Impacting Circadian Rhythm and Osteoblastic Gene Expression. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:21717-21728. [PMID: 27551048 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.737890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Serum glucocorticoids play a critical role in synchronizing circadian rhythm in peripheral tissues, and multiple mechanisms regulate tissue sensitivity to glucocorticoids. In the skeleton, circadian rhythm helps coordinate bone formation and resorption. Circadian rhythm is regulated through transcriptional and post-transcriptional feedback loops that include microRNAs. How microRNAs regulate circadian rhythm in bone is unexplored. We show that in mouse calvaria, miR-433 displays robust circadian rhythm, peaking just after dark. In C3H/10T1/2 cells synchronized with a pulse of dexamethasone, inhibition of miR-433 using a tough decoy altered the period and amplitude of Per2 gene expression, suggesting that miR-433 regulates rhythm. Although miR-433 does not directly target the Per2 3'-UTR, it does target two rhythmically expressed genes in calvaria, Igf1 and Hif1α. miR-433 can target the glucocorticoid receptor; however, glucocorticoid receptor protein abundance was unaffected in miR-433 decoy cells. Rather, miR-433 inhibition dramatically enhanced glucocorticoid signaling due to increased nuclear receptor translocation, activating glucocorticoid receptor transcriptional targets. Last, in calvaria of transgenic mice expressing a miR-433 decoy in osteoblastic cells (Col3.6 promoter), the amplitude of Per2 and Bmal1 mRNA rhythm was increased, confirming that miR-433 regulates circadian rhythm. miR-433 was previously shown to target Runx2, and mRNA for Runx2 and its downstream target, osteocalcin, were also increased in miR-433 decoy mouse calvaria. We hypothesize that miR-433 helps maintain circadian rhythm in osteoblasts by regulating sensitivity to glucocorticoid receptor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spenser S Smith
- From the Center for Molecular Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | - Neha S Dole
- From the Center for Molecular Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | | | - Henry C Hrdlicka
- From the Center for Molecular Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | - Anne M Delany
- From the Center for Molecular Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
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92
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Hapgood JP, Avenant C, Moliki JM. Glucocorticoid-independent modulation of GR activity: Implications for immunotherapy. Pharmacol Ther 2016; 165:93-113. [PMID: 27288728 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological doses of glucocorticoids (GCs), acting via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) to repress inflammation and immune function, remain the most effective therapy in the treatment of inflammatory and immune diseases. Since many patients on GC therapy exhibit GC resistance and severe side-effects, much research is focused on developing more selective GCs and combination therapies, with greater anti-inflammatory potency. GCs mediate their classical genomic transcriptional effects by binding to the cytoplasmic GR, followed by nuclear translocation and modulation of transcription of target genes by direct DNA binding of the GR or its tethering to other transcription factors. Recent evidence suggests, however, that the responses mediated by the GR are much more complex and involve multiple parallel mechanisms integrating simultaneous signals from other receptors, both in the absence and presence of GCs, to shift the sensitivity of a target cell to GCs. The level of cellular stress, immune activation status, or the cell cycle phase may be crucial for determining GC sensitivity and GC responsiveness as well as subcellular localization of the GR and GR levels. Central to the development of new drugs that target GR signaling alone or as add-on therapies, is an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of GC-independent GR desensitization, priming and activation of the unliganded GR, as well as synergy and cross-talk with other signaling pathways. This review will discuss the information currently available on these topics and their relevance to immunotherapy, as well as identify unanswered questions and future areas of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet P Hapgood
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa.
| | - Chanel Avenant
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa
| | - Johnson M Moliki
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa
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93
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Keenan CR, Lew MJ, Stewart AG. Biased signalling from the glucocorticoid receptor: Renewed opportunity for tailoring glucocorticoid activity. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 112:6-12. [PMID: 26898958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent landmark studies applying analytical pharmacology approaches to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) have demonstrated that different ligands can cause differential activation of distinct GR-regulated genes. Drawing on concepts of signalling bias from the field of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) biology, we speculate that ligand-dependent differences in GR signalling can be considered analogous to GPCR biased signalling, and thus can be quantitatively analysed in a similar way. This type of approach opens up the possibility of using rational structure-based drug optimisation strategies to improve the therapeutic selectivity of glucocorticoid drugs to maximise their efficacy and minimise adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Keenan
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Michael J Lew
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Alastair G Stewart
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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