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Fang X, Wu L, Yang L, Song L, Cai J, Luo F, Wei J, Zhou L, Wang D. Nuclear progestin receptor (Pgr) knockouts resulted in subfertility in male tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 182:62-71. [PMID: 29705270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
It was documented that 17α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP), a fish specific progestin, might play critical roles in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and spermiation partially through activating nuclear receptor (Pgr). However, no direct evidence is available to demonstrate the functions of DHP in fish spermatogenesis. To further elucidate the roles of DHP in teleosts, we generated a pgr homozygous mutant line in XY Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Pgr gene mutation resulted in the development of a smaller, thinner testis and a lower GSI compared with normal testis. Pgr gene knockout led to irregular arrangement of spermatogenic cysts, decline of sperm count and sperm motility. Significant decrease of spermatocytes and spermatozoa was observed, which was further proved by the PCNA and Ph3 staining. Real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that mutation of pgr gene resulted in a significant up-regulation of steroidogenesis-related genes of cyp17a, cyp11b2, StAR, scc, 20β-HSD, and sf1, and down-regulation of fshb, fshr, oct4, sycp3, cdk1, prm, cyclinB1, cyclinB2 and cdc25 genes. Furthermore, both Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting experiments revealed a remarkable increase of Cyp17a1, Cyp17a2 and Cyp11b2 expressions in the pgr-/- testis. EIA measurement showed that an evident increase of 11-KT level was found in the pgr-/- XY fish. There was a significant increase in the mortality of offspring when crossing pgr-/- XY fish with wild type XX fish. Increased TUNEL staining and enhanced apoptosis maker gene (bax) expressions were also observed. Taken together, our data suggested that DHP-activated physiology via pgr is crucial for the fertility in the XY tilapia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelian Fang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Limin Wu
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, HeNan, 453007, PR China
| | - Lanying Yang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Lingyun Song
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Jing Cai
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Feng Luo
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Jing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Linyan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
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Stephens SBZ, Di Giorgio NP, Liaw RB, Parra RA, Yang JA, Chahal N, Lux-Lantos VA, Kauffman AS. Estradiol-Dependent and -Independent Stimulation of Kiss1 Expression in the Amygdala, BNST, and Lateral Septum of Mice. Endocrinology 2018; 159:3389-3402. [PMID: 30107405 PMCID: PMC6112601 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptin, encoded by Kiss1, activates reproduction by stimulating GnRH neurons. Although most Kiss1 neurons are located in the hypothalamus, smaller Kiss1 populations also reside in the medial amygdala (MeA), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BnST), and lateral septum (LS). However, very little is known about the regulation and function of these extra-hypothalamic Kiss1 neurons. This study focused on the roles and interactions of two signaling factors, estradiol (E2) and GABA, known to stimulate and inhibit, respectively, extra-hypothalamic Kiss1 expression. First, using estrogen receptor (ER)α knockout (KO) and βERKO mice, we demonstrated that Kiss1 in both the BnST and LS is stimulated by E2, as occurs in the MeA, and that this E2 upregulation occurs via ERα, but not ERβ. Second, using GABABR KO and wild-type mice, we determined that whereas E2 normally increases extra-hypothalamic Kiss1 levels, such upregulation by E2 is further enhanced by the concurrent absence of GABABR signaling in the MeA and LS, but not the BnST. Third, we demonstrated that when GABABR signaling is absent, the additional removal of gonadal sex steroids does not abolish Kiss1 expression in the MeA and BnST, and in some cases the LS. Thus, Kiss1 expression in these extra-hypothalamic regions is not solely dependent on E2 stimulation. Finally, we demonstrated a significant positive correlation between Kiss1 levels in the MeA, BnST, and LS, but not between these regions and the hypothalamus (anteroventral periventricular nucleus/periventricular nucleus). Collectively, our findings indicate that both E2 and GABA independently regulate all three extra-hypothalamic Kiss1 populations, but their regulatory interactions may vary by brain region and additional yet-to-be-identified factors are likely involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon B Z Stephens
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Noelia P Di Giorgio
- Institute of Biology and Experimental Medicine, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Reanna B Liaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Ruby A Parra
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jennifer A Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Navdeep Chahal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Victoria A Lux-Lantos
- Institute of Biology and Experimental Medicine, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Correspondence: Alexander S. Kauffman, PhD, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, Leichtag Building, Room 3A-15, 9500 Gilman Drive, No. 0674, La Jolla, California 92093. E-mail:
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Spergel DJ. Neuropeptidergic modulation of GnRH neuronal activity and GnRH secretion controlling reproduction: insights from recent mouse studies. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:179-191. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Lehman MN, Coolen LM, Steiner RA, Neal-Perry G, Wang L, Moenter SM, Moore AM, Goodman RL, Hwa-Yeo S, Padilla SL, Kauffman AS, Garcia J, Kelly MJ, Clarkson J, Radovick S, Babwah AV, Leon S, Tena-Sempere M, Comninos A, Seminara S, Dhillo WS, Levine J, Terasawa E, Negron A, Herbison AE. The 3 rd World Conference on Kisspeptin, "Kisspeptin 2017: Brain and Beyond":Unresolved questions, challenges and future directions for the field. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12600. [PMID: 29656508 PMCID: PMC6461527 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The 3rd World Conference on Kisspeptin, "Kisspeptin 2017: Brain and Beyond" was held March 30-31 at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida, providing an international forum for multidisciplinary scientists to meet and share cutting-edge research on kisspeptin biology and its relevance to human health and disease. The meeting built upon previous world conferences focused on the role of kisspeptin and associated peptides in the control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion and reproduction. Based on recent discoveries, the scope of this meeting was expanded to include functions of kisspeptin and related peptides in other physiological systems including energy homeostasis, pregnancy, ovarian and uterine function, and thermoregulation. In addition, discussions addressed the translation of basic knowledge of kisspeptin biology to the treatment of disease, with the goal of seeking consensus about the best approaches to improve human health. The two-day meeting featured a non-traditional structure, with each day starting with poster sessions followed by lunch discussions and facilitated large-group sessions with short presentations to maximize the exchange of new, unpublished data. Topics were identified by a survey prior to the meeting, and focused on major unresolved questions, important controversies, and future directions in the field. Finally, career development activities provided mentoring for trainees and junior investigators, and networking opportunities for those individuals with established researchers in the field. Overall, the meeting was rated as a success by attendees and covered a wide range of lively and provocative discussion topics on the changing nature of the field of "kisspeptinology" and its future. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Lehman
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, 39216-4505, USA
| | - Lique M Coolen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, 39216-4505, USA
| | - Robert A Steiner
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Physiology & Biophysics, University of Washington, Box 357290 Seattle, WA 98195-7290, USA
| | - Genevieve Neal-Perry
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Physiology & Biophysics, University of Washington, Box 357290 Seattle, WA 98195-7290, USA
| | - Luhong Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Aleisha M Moore
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, 39216-4505, USA
| | - Robert L Goodman
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, USA
| | - Shel Hwa-Yeo
- Reproductive Physiology Group, Department of Physiology, Development, Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephanie L Padilla
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics& Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - James Garcia
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Martin J Kelly
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239 and Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Jenny Clarkson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Science, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Sally Radovick
- Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers University - Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Andy V Babwah
- Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers University - Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Silvia Leon
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba; and Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004Córdoba, Spain
| | - Alex Comninos
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jon Levine
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ei Terasawa
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Ariel Negron
- Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers University - Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Science, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
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Marraudino M, Martini M, Trova S, Farinetti A, Ponti G, Gotti S, Panzica G. Kisspeptin system in ovariectomized mice: Estradiol and progesterone regulation. Brain Res 2018; 1688:8-14. [PMID: 29555237 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The kisspeptin system is clustered in two main groups of cell bodies (the periventricular region, RP3V and the arcuate nucleus, ARC) that send fibers mainly to the GnRH neurons and in a few other locations, including the paraventricular nucleus, PVN. In physiological conditions, gonadal hormones modulate the kisspeptin system with expression changes according to different phases of the estrous cycle: the highest being in estrus phase in RP3V and PVN (positive feedback), and in ARC during the diestrus phase (negative feedback). In this work we wanted to study these hormonal fluctuations during the estrous cycle, investigating the role played by progesterone (P) or estradiol (E2), alone or together, on the kisspeptin system. Gonadectomized CD1 female mice were treated with P, E2 or both (E2 + P), following a timing of administration that emulates the different phases of estrous cycle, for two cycles of 4 days. As expected, the two cell groups were differentially affected by E2; the RP3V group was positively influenced by E2 (alone or with the P), whereas in the ARC the administration of E2 did not affect the system. However P (alone) induced a rise in the kisspeptin immunoreactivity. All the treatments significantly affected the kisspeptin innervation of the PVN, with regional differences, suggesting that these fibers arrive from both RP3V and ARC nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Marraudino
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Torino, Via Cherasco 15, Torino, Italy.
| | - Mariangela Martini
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7614, United States
| | - Sara Trova
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Alice Farinetti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Torino, Via Cherasco 15, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ponti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy; Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Torino, Largo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefano Gotti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Torino, Via Cherasco 15, Torino, Italy
| | - GianCarlo Panzica
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Torino, Via Cherasco 15, Torino, Italy
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Joshi S, Sun H, Rajasekaran K, Williamson J, Perez-Reyes E, Kapur J. A novel therapeutic approach for treatment of catamenial epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2018; 111:127-137. [PMID: 29274741 PMCID: PMC5803337 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many women with epilepsy experience perimenstrual seizure exacerbation, referred to as catamenial epilepsy. There is no effective treatment for this condition, proposed to result from withdrawal of neurosteroid-mediated effects of progesterone. A double-blind, multicenter, phase III, clinical trial of catamenial epilepsy has failed to find a beneficial effect of progesterone. The neurosteroid-mediated effects of progesterone have been extensively studied in relation to catamenial epilepsy; however, the effects mediated by progesterone receptor activation have been overlooked. We determined whether progesterone increased excitatory transmission in the hippocampus via activation of progesterone receptors, which may play a role in regulating catamenial seizure exacerbation. In a double-blind study using a rat model of catamenial epilepsy, we found that treatment with RU-486, which blocks progesterone and glucocorticoid receptors, significantly attenuated neurosteroid withdrawal-induced seizures. Furthermore, progesterone treatment as well as endogenous rise in progesterone during estrous cycle increased the expression of GluA1 and GluA2 subunits of AMPA receptors in the hippocampi, and enhanced the AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission of CA1 pyramidal neurons. The progesterone-induced plasticity of AMPA receptors was blocked by RU-486 treatment and progesterone also failed to increase AMPA receptor expression in progesterone receptor knockout mice. These studies demonstrate that progesterone receptor activation regulates AMPA receptor expression and may play a role in catamenial seizure exacerbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Joshi
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Huayu Sun
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Karthik Rajasekaran
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - John Williamson
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Edward Perez-Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States; Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States.
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Diotel N, Charlier TD, Lefebvre d'Hellencourt C, Couret D, Trudeau VL, Nicolau JC, Meilhac O, Kah O, Pellegrini E. Steroid Transport, Local Synthesis, and Signaling within the Brain: Roles in Neurogenesis, Neuroprotection, and Sexual Behaviors. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:84. [PMID: 29515356 PMCID: PMC5826223 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are synthesized from cholesterol and exert pleiotropic effects notably in the central nervous system. Pioneering studies from Baulieu and colleagues have suggested that steroids are also locally-synthesized in the brain. Such steroids, called neurosteroids, can rapidly modulate neuronal excitability and functions, brain plasticity, and behavior. Accumulating data obtained on a wide variety of species demonstrate that neurosteroidogenesis is an evolutionary conserved feature across fish, birds, and mammals. In this review, we will first document neurosteroidogenesis and steroid signaling for estrogens, progestagens, and androgens in the brain of teleost fish, birds, and mammals. We will next consider the effects of sex steroids in homeostatic and regenerative neurogenesis, in neuroprotection, and in sexual behaviors. In a last part, we will discuss the transport of steroids and lipoproteins from the periphery within the brain (and vice-versa) and document their effects on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and on neuroprotection. We will emphasize the potential interaction between lipoproteins and sex steroids, addressing the beneficial effects of steroids and lipoproteins, particularly HDL-cholesterol, against the breakdown of the BBB reported to occur during brain ischemic stroke. We will consequently highlight the potential anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective properties of sex steroid and lipoproteins, these latest improving cholesterol and steroid ester transport within the brain after insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Diotel
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - Thierry D. Charlier
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Christian Lefebvre d'Hellencourt
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - David Couret
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | | | - Joel C. Nicolau
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
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Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is recognized as the central regulator of the functions of the pituitary-gonadal axis. The increasing knowledge on the mechanisms controlling the development and the function of GnRH-producing neurons is leading to a better diagnostic and therapeutic approach for hypogonadotropic hypogonadisms and for alterations of the puberty onset. During female life span, the function of the GnRH pulse generator may be affected by a number of inputs from other neuronal systems, offering alternative strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Moreover, the identification of a GnRH/GnRH receptor system in both human ovary and endometrium has widened the spectrum of action of the peptide outside its hypothalamic functions. The pharmacological use of GnRH itself or its synthetic analogs (agonists and antagonists) provides a valid tool to either stimulate or block gonadotropin secretion and to modulate the female fertility in several reproductive disorders and in assisted reproduction technology. The use of GnRH agonists in young female patients undergoing chemotherapy is also considered a promising therapeutic approach to counteract iatrogenic ovarian failure.
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Walters KA, Edwards MC, Tesic D, Caldwell ASL, Jimenez M, Smith JT, Handelsman DJ. The Role of Central Androgen Receptor Actions in Regulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis. Neuroendocrinology 2018; 106:389-400. [PMID: 29635226 DOI: 10.1159/000487762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed throughout the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and findings from female global AR knockout mice confirm that AR-mediated androgen actions play important roles in regulating female reproductive function. We generated neuron-specific AR knockout mice (NeurARKO) to investigate the functional role of neuronal AR-mediated androgen action in regulating the female HPG axis and fertility. Relative to control females, NeurARKO females exhibited elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) levels at diestrus (p < 0.05) and a compromised serum LH response to ovariectomy and E2 priming (p < 0.01). Furthermore, NeurARKO females displayed reduced Kiss1 mRNA expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus at diestrus (p < 0.05) and proestrus (p < 0.05), but elevated Kiss1 (p < 0.05) and neurokinin B (Tac2, p < 0.05) mRNA expression in the arcuate nucleus at proestrus compared to WT controls. Ovarian follicle dynamics were also altered in NeurARKO ovaries at 3 months of age, with a significant reduction in large antral follicle numbers at the proestrus stage compared to control WT ovaries (p < 0.05). Increased follicular atresia was evident in NeurARKO ovaries with a 4-fold increase in unhealthy large preantral follicles (p < 0.01). Despite the findings of aberrant neuroendocrine and ovarian characteristics in the NeurARKO females, estrous cyclicity and overall fertility were comparable between NeurARKO and WT females. In conclusion, our findings revealed that selective loss of neuronal AR actions impacts the kisspeptin/GnRH/LH cascade leading to compromised ovarian follicle dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty A Walters
- School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melissa C Edwards
- School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dijana Tesic
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Washington, Australia
| | - Aimee S L Caldwell
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Jimenez
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeremy T Smith
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Washington, Australia
| | - David J Handelsman
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Volk KM, Pogrebna VV, Roberts JA, Zachry JE, Blythe SN, Toporikova N. High-Fat, High-Sugar Diet Disrupts the Preovulatory Hormone Surge and Induces Cystic Ovaries in Cycling Female Rats. J Endocr Soc 2017; 1:1488-1505. [PMID: 29308444 PMCID: PMC5740526 DOI: 10.1210/js.2017-00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diet-induced obesity has been associated with various metabolic and reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome. However, the mechanisms by which obesity influences the reproductive system are still not fully known. Studies have suggested that impairments in hormone signaling are associated with the development of symptoms such as acyclicity and ovarian cysts. However, these studies have often failed to address how these hormonal changes arise and how they might contribute to the progression of reproductive diseases. In the present study, we used a high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diet to induce obesity in a female rodent model to determine the changes in critical reproductive hormones that might contribute to the development of irregular estrous cycling and reproductive cycle termination. The HFHS animals exhibited impaired estradiol, progesterone (P4), and luteinizing hormone (LH) surges before ovulation. The HFHS diet also resulted in altered basal levels of testosterone (T) and LH. Furthermore, alterations in the basal P4/T ratio correlated strongly with ovarian cyst formation in HFHS rats. Thus, this model provides a method to assess the underlying etiology of obesity-related reproductive dysfunction and to examine an acyclic reproductive phenotype as it develops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina M. Volk
- Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
| | | | - Jackson A. Roberts
- Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
| | - Jennifer E. Zachry
- Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
| | - Sarah N. Blythe
- Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
- Department of Biology, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
| | - Natalia Toporikova
- Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
- Department of Biology, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450
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61
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Poling MC, Luo EY, Kauffman AS. Sex Differences in Steroid Receptor Coexpression and Circadian-Timed Activation of Kisspeptin and RFRP-3 Neurons May Contribute to the Sexually Dimorphic Basis of the LH Surge. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3565-3578. [PMID: 28938464 PMCID: PMC5659694 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In rodents, the ovulation-inducing luteinizing hormone (LH) surge is sexually dimorphic, occurring only in females, but the reasons for this sex difference are unclear. Two neuropeptides, kisspeptin and RFamide-related peptide 3 (RFRP-3), are hypothesized to regulate the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/LH surge. In females, both of these systems show circadian changes coincident with the LH surge, but whether males show similar temporal changes under comparable hormonal conditions is unknown. Here, we evaluated circadian time (CT)-dependent changes in gene expression and neuronal activation of Kiss1 and Rfrp neurons of female and male mice given identical LH surge-inducing estrogen regimens. As expected, females, but not males, displayed a late afternoon LH surge and GnRH neuronal activation. Kiss1 expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) was temporally increased in females in the late afternoon, whereas males demonstrated no temporal changes in AVPV Kiss1 expression. Likewise, neuronal activation of AVPV Kiss1 neurons was dramatically elevated in the late afternoon in females but was low at all circadian times in males. Estrogen receptor α levels in AVPV Kiss1 neurons were sexually dimorphic, being higher in females than males. AVPV progesterone receptor levels were also higher in females than males. Hypothalamic Rfrp messenger RNA levels showed no CT-dependent changes in either sex. However, Rfrp neuronal activation was temporally diminished in the afternoon/evening in females but not males. Collectively, the identified sex differences in absolute and CT-dependent AVPV Kiss1 levels, AVPV sex steroid receptor levels, and circadian-timed changes in neuronal activation of both Kiss1 and Rfrp neurons suggest that multiple sexually dimorphic processes in the brain may underlie proper LH surge generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C. Poling
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Elena Y. Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Alexander S. Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
- Center for Chronobiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
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62
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He W, Li X, Adekunbi D, Liu Y, Long H, Wang L, Lyu Q, Kuang Y, O'Byrne KT. Hypothalamic effects of progesterone on regulation of the pulsatile and surge release of luteinising hormone in female rats. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8096. [PMID: 28808344 PMCID: PMC5556103 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08805-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone can block the oestradiol-induced GnRH/LH surge and inhibit LH pulse frequency. Recent studies reported that progesterone prevented premature LH surges during ovarian hyperstimulation in women. As the most potent stimulator of GnRH/LH release, kisspeptin is believed to mediate the positive and negative feedback effects of oestradiol in the hypothalamic anteroventral periventricular (AVPV) and arcuate (ARC) nuclei, while the region-specific role of progesterone receptors in these nuclei remains unknown. This study examined the hypothesis that progesterone inhibits LH surge and pulsatile secretion via its receptor in the ARC and/or AVPV nuclei. Adult female rats received a single injection of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin followed by progesterone or vehicle. Progesterone administration resulted in a significant prolongation of the oestrous cycle and blockade of LH surge. However, microinjection of the progesterone receptor antagonist, RU486, into the AVPV reversed the prolonged cycle length and rescued the progesterone blockade LH surge, while RU486 into the ARC shortened LH pulse interval in the progesterone treated rats. These results demonstrated that progesterone's inhibitory effect on the GnRH/LH surge and pulsatile secretion is mediated by its receptor in the kisspeptin enriched hypothalamic AVPV and ARC respectively, which are essential for progesterone regulation of oestrous cyclicity in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen He
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Division of Women's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, UK
| | - Daniel Adekunbi
- Division of Women's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, UK
| | - Yali Liu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Long
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kevin T O'Byrne
- Division of Women's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, UK.
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63
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Actions of Steroids: New Neurotransmitters. J Neurosci 2017; 36:11449-11458. [PMID: 27911748 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2473-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the classical understanding of steroid action has been updated to include rapid, membrane-initiated, neurotransmitter-like functions. While steroids were known to function on very short time spans to induce physiological and behavioral changes, the mechanisms by which these changes occur are now becoming more clear. In avian systems, rapid estradiol effects can be mediated via local alterations in aromatase activity, which precisely regulates the temporal and spatial availability of estrogens. Acute regulation of brain-derived estrogens has been shown to rapidly affect sensorimotor function and sexual motivation in birds. In rodents, estrogens and progesterone are critical for reproduction, including preovulatory events and female sexual receptivity. Membrane progesterone receptor as well as classical progesterone receptor trafficked to the membrane mediate reproductive-related hypothalamic physiology, via second messenger systems with dopamine-induced cell signals. In addition to these relatively rapid actions, estrogen membrane-initiated signaling elicits changes in morphology. In the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, these changes are needed for lordosis behavior. Recent evidence also demonstrates that membrane glucocorticoid receptor is present in numerous cell types and species, including mammals. Further, membrane glucocorticoid receptor influences glucocorticoid receptor translocation to the nucleus effecting transcriptional activity. The studies presented here underscore the evidence that steroids behave like neurotransmitters to regulate CNS functions. In the future, we hope to fully characterize steroid receptor-specific functions in the brain.
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64
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Effects of Selective Deletion of Tyrosine Hydroxylase from Kisspeptin Cells on Puberty and Reproduction in Male and Female Mice. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NRS-0150-17. [PMID: 28660243 PMCID: PMC5480141 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0150-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide kisspeptin, encoded by Kiss1, regulates reproduction by stimulating GnRH secretion. Kiss1-syntheizing neurons reside primarily in the hypothalamic anteroventral periventricular (AVPV/PeN) and arcuate (ARC) nuclei. AVPV/PeN Kiss1 neurons are sexually dimorphic, with females expressing more Kiss1 than males, and participate in estradiol (E2)-induced positive feedback control of GnRH secretion. In mice, most AVPV/PeN Kiss1 cells coexpress tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine synthesis (in this case, dopamine). Dopamine treatment can inhibit GnRH neurons, but the function of dopamine signaling arising specifically from AVPV/PeN Kiss1 cells is unknown. We generated a novel TH flox mouse and used Cre-Lox technology to selectively ablate TH specifically from Kiss1 cells. We then examined the effects of selective TH knock-out on puberty and reproduction in both sexes. In control mice, 90% of AVPV/PeN Kiss1 neurons coexpressed TH, whereas in mice lacking TH exclusively in Kiss1 cells (termed Kiss THKOs), TH was successfully absent from virtually all Kiss1 cells. Despite this absence of TH, both female and male Kiss THKOs displayed normal body weights, puberty onset, and basal gonadotropin levels in adulthood, although testosterone (T) was significantly elevated in adult male Kiss THKOs. The E2-induced LH surge was unaffected in Kiss THKO females, and neuronal activation status of kisspeptin and GnRH cells was also normal. Supporting this, fertility and fecundity were normal in Kiss THKOs of both sexes. Thus, despite high colocalization of TH and Kiss1 in the AVPV/PeN, dopamine produced in these cells is not required for puberty or reproduction, and its function remains unknown.
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65
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Kanai N, Endo N, Ohkura S, Wakabayashi Y, Matsui H, Matsumoto H, Ishikawa K, Tanaka A, Watanabe T, Okamura H, Tanaka T. An administration of TAK-683 at a minimally effective dose for luteinizing hormone stimulation under the absence of the ovary induces luteinizing hormone surge in ovary-intact goats. J Reprod Dev 2017; 63:305-310. [PMID: 28344194 PMCID: PMC5481633 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2016-184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate hormonal responses and their association with the TAK-683 blood concentrations in goats administered TAK-683 at a low dose, which had been previously determined as the minimally effective dose
for luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulation in ovariectomized goats. In Experiment 1, 5 µg of TAK-683 treatment had no significant stimulatory effect on LH secretion in ovariectomized Shiba goats (n = 4). In Experiment 2, cycling
goats received the treatment of prostaglandin F2α and progesterone-releasing controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) to induce the follicular phase, then they were treated with 5 µg of TAK-683 (hour 0) intravenously
(n = 4, IV) or subcutaneously (n = 3, SC) or with vehicle intravenously (n = 4, control) at 12 h after CIDR removal. Blood samples were collected at 10-min (–2–6 h), 2-h (6–24 h), or 6-h (24–48 h) intervals. Ovarian
ultrasonographic images were assessed daily to confirm ovulation after the treatment. A surge-like release of LH was immediately observed after injection in all animals in the IV (peak time: 4.2 ± 0.6 h, peak concentration: 73.3 ±
27.5 ng/ml) and SC (peak time: 4.6 ± 0.4 h, peak concentration: 62.6 ± 23.2 ng/ml) groups, but not in the control group. Ovulation was detected within 3 days after TAK-683 injection in all animals in the IV and SC groups, and the
interval period from TAK-683 administration to ovulation in the IV group was significantly (P < 0.05) shorter than that of the control group. No significant changes were observed between the IV and SC groups in terms of luteal
diameter and blood progesterone levels after ovulation. The present findings suggest that the involvement of one or more ovarian factor(s) is indispensable for a TAK-683-induced LH surge leading to ovulation in goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahoko Kanai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Reproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Natsumi Endo
- Laboratory of Veterinary Reproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ohkura
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Wakabayashi
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan
| | - Hisanori Matsui
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Kanagawa 251-0012, Japan
| | | | - Kaori Ishikawa
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Kanagawa 251-0012, Japan
| | - Akira Tanaka
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Kanagawa 251-0012, Japan
| | | | - Hiroaki Okamura
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan
| | - Tomomi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Reproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
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66
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Mittelman-Smith MA, Wong AM, Micevych PE. Estrogen and Progesterone Integration in an in vitro Model of RP3V Kisspeptin Neurons. Neuroendocrinology 2017; 106:101-115. [PMID: 28384629 PMCID: PMC5750133 DOI: 10.1159/000471878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Positive feedback on gonadotropin release requires not only estrogen but also progesterone to activate neural circuits. In rodents, ovarian estradiol (E2) stimulates progesterone synthesis in hypothalamic astrocytes (neuroP), needed for the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. Kisspeptin (kiss) neurons are the principal stimulators of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons, and disruption of kiss signaling abrogates the LH surge. Similarly, blocking steroid synthesis in the hypothalamus or deleting classical progesterone receptor (PGR) selectively in kiss neurons prevents the LH surge. These results suggest a synergistic action of E2 and progesterone in kiss neurons to affect gonadotropin release. The mHypoA51, immortalized kiss-expressing neuronal cell line derived from adult female mice, is a tractable model for examining integration of steroid signaling underlying estrogen positive feedback. Here, we report that kiss neurons in vitro integrate E2 and progesterone signaling to increase levels of kiss translation and release. mHypoA51 neurons expressed nonclassical membrane progesterone receptors (mPRα and mPRβ) and E2-inducible PGR, required for progesterone-augmentation of E2-induced kiss expression. With astrocyte-conditioned media or in mHypoA51-astrocyte co-culture, neuroP augmented stimulatory effects of E2 on kiss protein. Progesterone activation of classical, membrane-localized PGR led to activation of MAPK and Src kinases. Importantly, progesterone or Src activation induced release of kiss from E2-primed mHypoA51 neurons. Consistent with previous studies, the present results provide compelling evidence that the interaction of E2 and progesterone stimulates kiss expression and release. Further, these results demonstrate a mechanism though which peripheral E2 may prime kiss neurons to respond to neuroP, mediating estrogen positive feedback.
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67
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Mittelman-Smith MA, Rudolph LM, Mohr MA, Micevych PE. Rodent Models of Non-classical Progesterone Action Regulating Ovulation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:165. [PMID: 28790975 PMCID: PMC5522857 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is becoming clear that steroid hormones act not only by binding to nuclear receptors that associate with specific response elements in the nucleus but also by binding to receptors on the cell membrane. In this newly discovered manner, steroid hormones can initiate intracellular signaling cascades which elicit rapid effects such as release of internal calcium stores and activation of kinases. We have learned much about the translocation and signaling of steroid hormone receptors from investigations into estrogen receptor α, which can be trafficked to, and signal from, the cell membrane. It is now clear that progesterone (P4) can also elicit effects that cannot be exclusively explained by transcriptional changes. Similar to E2 and its receptors, P4 can initiate signaling at the cell membrane, both through progesterone receptor and via a host of newly discovered membrane receptors (e.g., membrane progesterone receptors, progesterone receptor membrane components). This review discusses the parallels between neurotransmitter-like E2 action and the more recently investigated non-classical P4 signaling, in the context of reproductive behaviors in the rodent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda A. Mittelman-Smith
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Melinda A. Mittelman-Smith,
| | - Lauren M. Rudolph
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Margaret A. Mohr
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul E. Micevych
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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68
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Progesterone-induced amplification and advancement of GnRH/LH surges are associated with changes in kisspeptin system in preoptic area of estradiol-primed female rats. Brain Res 2016; 1650:21-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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69
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Stephens SBZ, Chahal N, Munaganuru N, Parra RA, Kauffman AS. Estrogen Stimulation of Kiss1 Expression in the Medial Amygdala Involves Estrogen Receptor-α But Not Estrogen Receptor-β. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4021-4031. [PMID: 27564649 PMCID: PMC5045512 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide kisspeptin, encoded by Kiss1, regulates reproduction by stimulating GnRH secretion. Neurons synthesizing kisspeptin are predominantly located in the hypothalamic anteroventral periventricular (AVPV) and arcuate nuclei, but smaller kisspeptin neuronal populations also reside in extrahypothalamic brain regions, such as the medial amygdala (MeA). In adult rodents, estradiol (E2) increases Kiss1 expression in the MeA, as in the AVPV. However, unlike AVPV and arcuate nuclei kisspeptin neurons, little else is currently known about the development, regulation, and function of MeA Kiss1 neurons. We first assessed the developmental onset of MeA Kiss1 expression in males and found that MeA Kiss1 expression is absent at juvenile ages but significantly increases during the late pubertal period, around postnatal day 35, coincident with increases in circulating sex steroids. We next tested whether developmental MeA Kiss1 expression could be induced early by E2 exposure prior to puberty. We found that juvenile mice given short-term E2 had greatly increased MeA Kiss1 expression at postnatal day 18. Although MeA Kiss1 neurons are known to be E2 up-regulated, the specific estrogen receptor (ER) pathway(s) mediating this stimulation are unknown. Using adult ERα knockout and ERβ knockout mice, we next determined that ERα, but not ERβ, is required for maximal E2-induced MeA Kiss1 expression in both sexes. These results delineate both the developmental time course of MeA Kiss1 expression and the specific ER signaling pathway required for E2-induced up-regulation of Kiss1 in this extrahypothalamic brain region. These findings will help drive future studies ascertaining the potential functions of this understudied kisspeptin population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon B Z Stephens
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Navdeep Chahal
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Nagambika Munaganuru
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Ruby A Parra
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
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70
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Shi L, Zhang J, Lai Z, Tian Y, Fang L, Wu M, Xiong J, Qin X, Luo A, Wang S. Long-Term Moderate Oxidative Stress Decreased Ovarian Reproductive Function by Reducing Follicle Quality and Progesterone Production. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162194. [PMID: 27676390 PMCID: PMC5038974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a long-term and complex process associated with a decrease in follicular quantity and quality. The damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in ovarian aging and ovarian aging-associated disorders have received relatively little attention. Thus, we assessed if the oxidative stress induced by long-term (defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as at least 30 days in duration) moderate ozone inhalation reduced ovarian reserves, decreased ovarian function and induced ovarian aging-associated disorders. The expression of oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzymes was used to determine the degree of oxidative stress. Ultrastructural changes in ovarian cells were examined via electron microscopy. The ovarian reserve was assessed by measuring multiple parameters, such as the size of the primordial follicle pool and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) expression. The estrous cycle, hormone levels and fertility status were investigated to assess ovarian function. To investigate ovarian aging-associated disorders, we utilized bone density and cardiovascular ultrasonography in mice. The levels of oxidized metabolites, such as 8-hydroxy-2´-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and nitrotyrosine (NTY), significantly increased in ovarian cells in response to increased oxidative stress. The ultrastructural analysis indicated that lipid droplet formation and the proportion of mitochondria with damaged membranes in granulosa cells were markedly increased in ozone-exposed mice when compared with the control group. Ozone exposure did not change the size of the primordial follicle pool or anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) expression. The estrogen concentration remained normal; however, progesterone and testosterone levels decreased. The mice exposed to ozone inhalation exhibited a substantial decrease in fertility and fecundity. No differences were revealed by the bone density or cardiovascular ultrasounds. These findings suggest that the decreased female reproductive function caused by long-term moderate oxidative damage may be due to a decrease in follicle quality and progesterone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangyan Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiwen Lai
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Zigong, Sichuan, 643000, China
| | - Yong Tian
- The Central Hospital of Enshi Autonomous Prefecture, 158 Wuyang Road, Enshi Autonomous Prefecture, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - Li Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xian Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- * E-mail: (SW); (AL)
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- * E-mail: (SW); (AL)
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71
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Gal A, Lin PC, Cacioppo JA, Hannon PR, Mahoney MM, Wolfe A, Fernandez-Valdivia R, Lydon JP, Elias CF, Ko C. Loss of Fertility in the Absence of Progesterone Receptor Expression in Kisspeptin Neurons of Female Mice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159534. [PMID: 27441639 PMCID: PMC4956300 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian steroids, estradiol and progesterone, play central roles in regulating female reproduction by acting as both positive and negative regulators of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion in the hypothalamus. Recent studies have identified kisspeptin neurons of the hypothalamus as the target of estrogenic regulation of GnRH secretion. In this study, we aimed to determine the significance of progesterone receptor (PGR) expression in the kisspeptin neurons. To this end, the Pgr gene was selectively ablated in mouse kisspeptin neurons and the reproductive consequence assessed. The hypothalamus of the Pgr deficient female mouse expressed kisspeptin, the pituitary released LH in response to GnRH stimulation, and the ovary ovulated when stimulated with gonadotropins. However, the mutant mouse gradually lost cyclicity, was unable to generate a LH surge in response to rising estradiol, and eventually became infertile. Taken together, these results indicate that the loss of PGR impairs kisspeptin secretory machinery and therefore that PGR plays a critical role in regulating kisspeptin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnon Gal
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Po-Ching Lin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Joseph A. Cacioppo
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Patrick R. Hannon
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Megan M. Mahoney
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Andrew Wolfe
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Rodrigo Fernandez-Valdivia
- Department of Pathology and Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America; Tumor Biology Microenvironment Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - John P. Lydon
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Carol F. Elias
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - CheMyong Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Rudolph LM, Bentley GE, Calandra RS, Paredes AH, Tesone M, Wu TJ, Micevych PE. Peripheral and Central Mechanisms Involved in the Hormonal Control of Male and Female Reproduction. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28:10.1111/jne.12405. [PMID: 27329133 PMCID: PMC5146987 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction involves the integration of hormonal signals acting across multiple systems to generate a synchronised physiological output. A critical component of reproduction is the luteinising hormone (LH) surge, which is mediated by oestradiol (E2 ) and neuroprogesterone interacting to stimulate kisspeptin release in the rostral periventricular nucleus of the third ventricle in rats. Recent evidence indicates the involvement of both classical and membrane E2 and progesterone signalling in this pathway. A metabolite of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), GnRH-(1-5), has been shown to stimulate GnRH expression and secretion, and has a role in the regulation of lordosis. Additionally, gonadotrophin release-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) projects to and influences the activity of GnRH neurones in birds. Stress-induced changes in GnIH have been shown to alter breeding behaviour in birds, demonstrating another mechanism for the molecular control of reproduction. Peripherally, paracrine and autocrine actions within the gonad have been suggested as therapeutic targets for infertility in both males and females. Dysfunction of testicular prostaglandin synthesis is a possible cause of idiopathic male infertility. Indeed, local production of melatonin and corticotrophin-releasing hormone could influence spermatogenesis via immune pathways in the gonad. In females, vascular endothelial growth factor A has been implicated in an angiogenic process that mediates development of the corpus luteum and thus fertility via the Notch signalling pathway. Age-induced decreases in fertility involve ovarian kisspeptin and its regulation of ovarian sympathetic innervation. Finally, morphological changes in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus influence female sexual receptivity in rats. The processes mediating these morphological changes have been shown to involve the rapid effects of E2 controlling synaptogenesis in this hypothalamic nucleus. In summary, this review highlights new research in these areas, focusing on recent findings concerning the molecular mechanisms involved in the central and peripheral hormonal control of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Rudolph
- Department of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - G E Bentley
- Department of Integrative Biology, and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - R S Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A H Paredes
- Laboratory of Neurobiochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Tesone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - T J Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - P E Micevych
- Department of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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73
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Yap CC, Wharfe MD, Mark PJ, Waddell BJ, Smith JT. Diurnal regulation of hypothalamic kisspeptin is disrupted during mouse pregnancy. J Endocrinol 2016; 229:307-18. [PMID: 27068699 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptin, the neuropeptide product of the Kiss1 gene, is critical in driving the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Kisspeptin neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and arcuate nucleus (Arc) of the hypothalamus mediate differential effects, with the Arc regulating negative feedback of sex steroids and the AVPV regulating positive feedback, vital for the preovulatory surge and gated under circadian control. We aimed to characterize hypothalamic Kiss1 and Kiss1r mRNA expression in nonpregnant and pregnant mice, and investigate potential circadian regulation. Anterior and posterior hypothalami were collected from C57BL/6J mice at diestrus, proestrus, and days 6, 10, 14, and 18 of pregnancy, at six time points across 24h, for real-time PCR analysis of gene expression. Analysis confirmed that Kiss1 mRNA expression in the AVPV increased at ZT13 during proestrus, with a luteinizing hormone surge observed thereafter. No diurnal regulation was seen at diestrus or at any stage of pregnancy. Anterior hypothalamic Avp mRNA expression exhibited no diurnal variation, but Avpr1a peaked at 12:00h during proestrus, possibly reflecting the circadian input from the suprachiasmatic nucleus to AVPV Kiss1 neurons. Rfrp (Npvf) expression in the posterior hypothalamus did not demonstrate diurnal variation at any stage. Clock genes Bmal1 and Rev-erbα were strongly diurnal, but there was little change between diestrus/proestrus and pregnancy. Our data indicate the absence of the circadian input to Kiss1 in pregnancy, despite high gestational estradiol levels and normal clock gene expression, and may suggest a disruption of a kisspeptin-specific diurnal rhythm that operates in the nonpregnant state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra C Yap
- School of AnatomyPhysiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michaela D Wharfe
- School of AnatomyPhysiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J Mark
- School of AnatomyPhysiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Brendan J Waddell
- School of AnatomyPhysiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremy T Smith
- School of AnatomyPhysiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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74
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Dubois SL, Wolfe A, Radovick S, Boehm U, Levine JE. Estradiol Restrains Prepubertal Gonadotropin Secretion in Female Mice via Activation of ERα in Kisspeptin Neurons. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1546-54. [PMID: 26824364 PMCID: PMC4816723 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Elimination of estrogen receptorα (ERα) from kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons results in premature LH release and pubertal onset, implicating these receptors in 17β-estradiol (E2)-mediated negative feedback regulation of GnRH release during the prepubertal period. Here, we tested the dependency of prepubertal negative feedback on ERα in Kiss1 neurons. Prepubertal (postnatal d 14) and peripubertal (postnatal d 34) wild-type (WT) and Kiss1 cell-specific ERα knockout (KERαKO) female mice were sham operated or ovariectomized and treated with either vehicle- or E2-containing capsules. Plasma and tissues were collected 2 days after surgery for analysis. Ovariectomy increased LH and FSH levels, and E2 treatments completely prevented these increases in WT mice of both ages. However, in prepubertal KERαKO mice, basal LH levels were elevated vs WT, and both LH and FSH levels were not further increased by ovariectomy or affected by E2 treatment. Similarly, Kiss1 mRNA levels in the medial basal hypothalamus, which includes the arcuate nucleus, were suppressed with E2 treatment in ovariectomized prepubertal WT mice but remained unaffected by any treatment in KERαKO mice. In peripubertal KERαKO mice, basal LH and FSH levels were not elevated vs WT and were unaffected by ovariectomy or E2. In contrast to our previous findings in adult animals, these results demonstrate that suppression of gonadotropins and Kiss1 mRNA by E2 in prepubertal animals depends upon ERα activation in Kiss1 neurons. Our observations are consistent with the hypothesis that these receptors play a critical role in restraining GnRH release before the onset and completion of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon L Dubois
- Neuroscience Training Program (S.L.D.) and Department of Neuroscience (S.L.D., J.E.L.), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705; Department of Pediatrics (A.W., S.R.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (U.B.), University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg D-66421, Germany; and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (J.E.L.), Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Andrew Wolfe
- Neuroscience Training Program (S.L.D.) and Department of Neuroscience (S.L.D., J.E.L.), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705; Department of Pediatrics (A.W., S.R.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (U.B.), University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg D-66421, Germany; and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (J.E.L.), Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Sally Radovick
- Neuroscience Training Program (S.L.D.) and Department of Neuroscience (S.L.D., J.E.L.), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705; Department of Pediatrics (A.W., S.R.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (U.B.), University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg D-66421, Germany; and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (J.E.L.), Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Neuroscience Training Program (S.L.D.) and Department of Neuroscience (S.L.D., J.E.L.), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705; Department of Pediatrics (A.W., S.R.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (U.B.), University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg D-66421, Germany; and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (J.E.L.), Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Jon E Levine
- Neuroscience Training Program (S.L.D.) and Department of Neuroscience (S.L.D., J.E.L.), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705; Department of Pediatrics (A.W., S.R.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (U.B.), University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg D-66421, Germany; and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (J.E.L.), Madison, Wisconsin 53715
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Abstract
The progesterone receptor (PGR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor with key roles in the regulation of female fertility. Much has been learned of the actions of PGR signaling through the use of pharmacologic inhibitors and genetic manipulation, using mouse mutagenesis. Characterization of rats with a null mutation at the Pgr locus has forced a reexamination of the role of progesterone in the regulation of the female reproductive cycle. We generated two Pgr mutant rat models, using genome editing. In both cases, deletions yielded a null mutation resulting from a nonsense frame-shift and the emergence of a stop codon. Similar to Pgr null mice, Pgr null rats were infertile because of deficits in sexual behavior, ovulation, and uterine endometrial differentiation. However, in contrast to the reported phenotype of female mice with disruptions in Pgr signaling, Pgr null female rats exhibit robust estrous cycles. Cyclic changes in vaginal cytology, uterine histology, serum hormone levels, and wheel running activity were evident in Pgr null female rats, similar to wild-type controls. Furthermore, exogenous progesterone treatment inhibited estrous cycles in wild-type female rats but not in Pgr-null female rats. As previously reported, pharmacologic antagonism supports a role for PGR signaling in the regulation of the ovulatory gonadotropin surge, a result at variance with experimentation using genetic ablation of PGR signaling. To conclude, our findings in the Pgr null rat challenge current assumptions and prompt a reevaluation of the hormonal control of reproductive cyclicity.
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Luo E, Stephens SBZ, Chaing S, Munaganuru N, Kauffman AS, Breen KM. Corticosterone Blocks Ovarian Cyclicity and the LH Surge via Decreased Kisspeptin Neuron Activation in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1187-99. [PMID: 26697722 PMCID: PMC4769373 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Stress elicits activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which leads to enhanced circulating glucocorticoids, as well as impaired gonadotropin secretion and ovarian cyclicity. Here, we tested the hypothesis that elevated, stress-levels of glucocorticoids disrupt ovarian cyclicity by interfering with the preovulatory sequence of endocrine events necessary for the LH surge. Ovarian cyclicity was monitored in female mice implanted with a cholesterol or corticosterone (Cort) pellet. Cort, but not cholesterol, arrested cyclicity in diestrus. Subsequent studies focused on the mechanism whereby Cort stalled the preovulatory sequence by assessing responsiveness to the positive feedback estradiol signal. Ovariectomized mice were treated with an LH surge-inducing estradiol implant, as well as Cort or cholesterol, and assessed several days later for LH levels on the evening of the anticipated surge. All cholesterol females showed a clear LH surge. At the time of the anticipated surge, LH levels were undetectable in Cort-treated females. In situ hybridization analyses the anteroventral periventricular nucleus revealed that Cort robustly suppressed the percentage of Kiss1 cells coexpressing cfos, as well as reduced the number of Kiss1 cells and amount of Kiss1 mRNA per cell, compared with expression in control brains. In addition, Cort blunted pituitary expression of the genes encoding the GnRH receptor and LHβ, indicating inhibition of gonadotropes during the blockage of the LH surge. Collectively, our findings support the hypothesis that physiological stress-levels of Cort disrupts ovarian cyclicity, in part, through disruption of positive feedback mechanisms at both the hypothalamic and pituitary levels which are necessary for generation of the preovulatory LH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Shannon B Z Stephens
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Sharon Chaing
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Nagambika Munaganuru
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
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Maggi R, Cariboni AM, Marelli MM, Moretti RM, Andrè V, Marzagalli M, Limonta P. GnRH and GnRH receptors in the pathophysiology of the human female reproductive system. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 22:358-81. [PMID: 26715597 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human reproduction depends on an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has been recognized, since its identification in 1971, as the central regulator of the production and release of the pituitary gonadotrophins that, in turn, regulate the gonadal functions and the production of sex steroids. The characteristic peculiar development, distribution and episodic activity of GnRH-producing neurons have solicited an interdisciplinary interest on the etiopathogenesis of several reproductive diseases. The more recent identification of a GnRH/GnRH receptor (GnRHR) system in both the human endometrium and ovary has widened the spectrum of action of the peptide and of its analogues beyond its hypothalamic function. METHODS An analysis of research and review articles published in international journals until June 2015 has been carried out to comprehensively summarize both the well established and the most recent knowledge on the physiopathology of the GnRH system in the central and peripheral control of female reproductive functions and diseases. RESULTS This review focuses on the role of GnRH neurons in the control of the reproductive axis. New knowledge is accumulating on the genetic programme that drives GnRH neuron development to ameliorate the diagnosis and treatment of GnRH deficiency and consequent delayed or absent puberty. Moreover, a better understanding of the mechanisms controlling the episodic release of GnRH during the onset of puberty and the ovulatory cycle has enabled the pharmacological use of GnRH itself or its synthetic analogues (agonists and antagonists) to either stimulate or to block the gonadotrophin secretion and modulate the functions of the reproductive axis in several reproductive diseases and in assisted reproduction technology. Several inputs from other neuronal populations, as well as metabolic, somatic and age-related signals, may greatly affect the functions of the GnRH pulse generator during the female lifespan; their modulation may offer new possible strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A GnRH/GnRHR system is also expressed in female reproductive tissues (e.g. endometrium and ovary), both in normal and pathological conditions. The expression of this system in the human endometrium and ovary supports its physiological regulatory role in the processes of trophoblast invasion of the maternal endometrium and embryo implantation as well as of follicular development and corpus luteum functions. The GnRH/GnRHR system that is expressed in diseased tissues of the female reproductive tract (both benign and malignant) is at present considered an effective molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for these pathologies. GnRH agonists are also considered as a promising therapeutic approach to counteract ovarian failure in young female patients undergoing chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Increasing knowledge about the regulation of GnRH pulsatile release, as well as the therapeutic use of its analogues, offers interesting new perspectives in the diagnosis, treatment and outcome of female reproductive disorders, including tumoral and iatrogenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Montagnani Marelli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Roberta Manuela Moretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Andrè
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
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Cox KH. A Kiss and a PRomise. Endocrinology 2015; 156:3063-5. [PMID: 26295491 PMCID: PMC4541626 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly H Cox
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
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