101
|
Crespo D, Assis LHC, Furmanek T, Bogerd J, Schulz RW. Expression profiling identifies Sertoli and Leydig cell genes as Fsh targets in adult zebrafish testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 437:237-251. [PMID: 27566230 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells are quiescent, undergo self-renewal or differentiating divisions, thereby forming the cellular basis of spermatogenesis. This cellular development is orchestrated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), through the production of Sertoli cell-derived factors, and by Leydig cell-released androgens. Here, we investigate the transcriptional events induced by Fsh in a steroid-independent manner on the restart of zebrafish (Danio rerio) spermatogenesis ex vivo, using testis from adult males where type A spermatogonia were enriched by estrogen treatment in vivo. Under these conditions, RNA sequencing preferentially detected differentially expressed genes in somatic/Sertoli cells. Fsh-stimulated spermatogonial proliferation was accompanied by modulating several signaling systems (i.e. Tgf-β, Hedgehog, Wnt and Notch pathways). In silico protein-protein interaction analysis indicated a role for Hedgehog family members potentially integrating signals from different pathways during fish spermatogenesis. Moreover, Fsh had a marked impact on metabolic genes, such as lactate and fatty acid metabolism, or on Sertoli cell barrier components. Fish Leydig cells express the Fsh receptor and one of the most robust Fsh-responsive genes was insulin-like 3 (insl3), a Leydig cell-derived growth factor. Follow-up work showed that recombinant zebrafish Insl3 mediated pro-differentiation effects of Fsh on spermatogonia in an androgen-independent manner. Our experimental approach allowed focusing on testicular somatic genes in zebrafish and showed that the activity of signaling systems known to be relevant in stem cells was modulated by Fsh, providing promising leads for future work, as exemplified by the studies on Insl3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Crespo
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luiz H C Assis
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tomasz Furmanek
- Research Group Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Research Group Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Zhu HS, Qian Z, Liu HL, Bao ED. ACTH-induced stress in weaned sows impairs LH receptor expression and steroidogenesis capacity in the ovary. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:80. [PMID: 27842549 PMCID: PMC5109697 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0214-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress has been proved to impair the porcine reproduction soundly. Endocrine disruption, which is closely related to the persistent follicles, is possibly one of the results of stress, although the mechanism is unclear. Since the expression of luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) in ovarian follicular wall and concentrations of steroid hormone in follicular fluid are related to the development of persistent follicles, this study is designed to evaluate the effect of administered adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) to weaned pigs on their ovarian steroidogenesis capacity and LHR expression. METHODS Ten multiparous sows were weaned and randomly divided into two groups (n = 5 each). Sows received 1 IU/kg ACTH (ACTH group) or saline (control group) every 8 h from days 3-9 after jugular vein intubation. Blood samples were collected throughout the experiment, and ovaries were collected after slaughter on day 10. Follicular fluid (FF) was used to determine the steroid hormone concentrations. The ovarian follicle wall was obtained and stored in liquid nitrogen to detect mRNA levels. RESULTS The plasma cortisol concentration was significantly (P < 0.01) elevated after ACTH injection. The estradiol (E2) and androstenedione (ASD) concentrations in FF were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the ACTH group than in the control group. The LHR, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom), and cytochrome P450 17a-hydroxylase (P450c17) mRNA levels were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in the ACTH group. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) level and cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage (P450scc) was lower in the ACTH group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Immunostaining results revealed 3β-HSD,P450c17, and LHR expression in theca cells, and P450arom expression in granulosa cells. Immunohistochemical staining showed significant differences in the distribution of 3β-HSD, P450c17, LHR, and P450arom between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicated that ACTH significantly diminished the LHR expression and steroidogenesis capacity of the ovaries of weaned sows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H. S. Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang 1, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - Z. Qian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang 1, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - H. L. Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - E. D. Bao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang 1, Nanjing, 210095 China
| |
Collapse
|
103
|
Fouquet B, Santulli P, Noel JC, Misrahi M. Ovarian-like differentiation in eutopic and ectopic endometrioses with aberrant FSH receptor, INSL3 and GATA4/6 expression. BBA CLINICAL 2016; 6:143-152. [PMID: 27882303 PMCID: PMC5118588 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis, the hormone-dependent extrauterine dissemination of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, affects 5–15% of women of reproductive age. Pathogenesis remains poorly understood as well as the estrogen production by endometriotic tissue yielding autocrine growth. Estrogens (E2) are normally produced by the ovaries. We investigated whether aberrant “ovarian-like” differentiation occurred in endometriosis. 69 women, with (n = 38) and without (n = 31) histologically proven endometriosis were recruited. Comparative RT-qPCR was performed on 20 genes in paired eutopic and ectopic lesions, together with immunohistochemistry. Functional studies were performed in primary cultures of epithelial endometriotic cells (EEC). A broaden ovarian-like differentiation was found in half eutopic and all ectopic endometriosis with aberrant expression of transcripts and protein for the transcription factors GATA4 and GATA6 triggering ovarian differentiation, for the FSH receptor (FSHR) and the ovarian hormone INSL3. Like in ovaries the FSHR induced aromatase, the key enzyme in E2 production, and vascular factors in EEC. The LH receptor (LHR) was also aberrantly expressed in a subset of ectopic endometriosis (21%) and induced strongly androgen-synthesizing enzymes and INSL3 in EEC, as in ovaries, as well as endometriotic cell growth. The ERK pathway mediates signaling by both hormones. A positive feedback loop occurred through FSHR and LHR-dependent induction of GATA4/6 in EEC, as in ovaries, enhancing the production of the steroidogenic cascade. This work highlights a novel pathophysiological mechanism with a broadly ovarian pattern of differentiation in half eutopic and all ectopic endometriosis. This study provides new tools that might improve the diagnosis of endometriosis in the future. In endometriosis aberrant E2 production raises questions on ovarian differentiation. FSHR and INSL3 upregulation in eutopic/ectopic, and LHR in ectopic lesions are found. Ovarian GATA4/6 are upregulated in eutopic/ectopic lesions and induced by FSHR and LHR. FSHR and LHR induce steroidogenic enzymes and the ERK pathway in endometriotic cells. New pathophysiological mechanism of endometriosis with tools for diagnosis is shown.
Collapse
Key Words
- CYP11A1, Cytochrome P450 Family 11 Subfamily A Member 1
- CYP17, Cytochrome P450 Family 17 Subfamily A Member 1
- CYP19A1, Cytochrome P450 Family 19 Subfamily A Member 1
- EEC, Epithelial Endometriotic Cells
- EGVEGF, Endocrine Gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor
- Endometriosis
- FSHR
- FSHR, Follicle Stimulating Hormone Receptor
- GATA4/6
- GATA4/6, GATA binding protein 4/6
- INSL3
- INSL3, Insulin Like 3
- LHR
- LHR, Luteinizing Hormone Receptor
- Ovarian- like differentiation
- PTGER, Prostaglandin E Receptor
- PTGS2, Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2
- RT-qPCR, Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction
- SF1, Steroidogenic Factor-1
- VEGF, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Fouquet
- Faculté de Médecine Paris Sud, Univ Paris Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Pietro Santulli
- Faculté de Médecine Paris Sud, Univ Paris Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Noel
- Erasme University Hospital, Department of Pathology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Micheline Misrahi
- Faculté de Médecine Paris Sud, Univ Paris Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Marquis TJ, Nozaki M, Fagerberg W, Sower SA. Comprehensive histological and immunological studies reveal a novel glycoprotein hormone and thyrostimulin expressing proto-glycotrope in the sea lamprey pituitary. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 367:311-338. [PMID: 27771775 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2502-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In the adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary) of all gnathostomes, there are six tropic cell types: corticotropes, melanotropes, somatotropes, lactotropes, gonadotropes and thyrotropes; each cell type produces specific tropic hormones. In contrast, we report in this study that there are only four tropic cell types in the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) adenohypophysis. We specifically focused on the cell types that produce the glycoprotein hormones (GpHs). The gnathostome adenohypophyseal GpHs are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyrostimulin. However, lampreys only have two heterodimeric adenohypophyseal GpHs consisting of unique α and β subunits, lamprey GpH (lGpH) (lGpA2/lGpHβ) and thyrostimulin (lGpA2/lGpB5). We used an array of histological techniques to determine the (co)-localization and (co)-expression of the lGpH and thyrostimulin subunits in the lamprey adenohypophysis at different life stages (larval, parasitic, adult) and to identify their synthesizing cell(s). The thyrostimulin subunits (lGpA2/lGpB5) were co-expressed throughout the adenohypophysis (larval, parasitic, and adult), while the GpH β-subunit (lGpHβ) exhibited localized distribution (adult); all three subunits were co-localized and co-expressed, suggesting that both GpHs are synthesized in the same cells, novel proto-glycotropes, in specific adenohypophyseal regions at different life stages. In summary, we provide the first comprehensive study using histology, transmission electron microscopy, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry that strongly supports further evidence for four definitive adenohypophyseal cell types in the lamprey, including: corticotropes, somatotropes, melanotropes, and the first identification of a novel proto-glycotrope. In addition, our studies show that there is developmental and region-specific co-localization and co-expression of lGpH and thyrostimulin in the lamprey adenohypophysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Marquis
- Center for Molecular and Comparative Endocrinology, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, 03824, USA.,Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, 03824, USA
| | - Masumi Nozaki
- Sado Marine Biological Station, Niigata University, Tassha, Sado, Niigata, 952-2135, Japan
| | - Wayne Fagerberg
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, 03824, USA
| | - Stacia A Sower
- Center for Molecular and Comparative Endocrinology, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, 03824, USA. .,Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, 03824, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
105
|
Ullah R, Shen Y, Zhou YD, Huang K, Fu JF, Wahab F, Shahab M. Expression and actions of GnIH and its orthologs in vertebrates: Current status and advanced knowledge. Neuropeptides 2016; 59:9-20. [PMID: 27255391 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The physiology of reproduction is very complex and is regulated by multiple factors, including a number of hypothalamic neuropeptides. In last few decades, various neuropeptides have been discovered to be involved in stimulation or inhibition of reproduction. In 2000, Tsutsui and colleagues uncovered gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH), a neuropeptide generating inhibitory drive to the reproductive axis, in the brain of Coturnix quail. Afterward, GnIH orthologs were discovered in other vertebrates from fish to mammals including human. In these vertebrates, all the discovered GnIH and its ortholgs have LPXRFamide (X=L or Q) sequence at C-terminus. GnIH orthologs of mammals and primates are also termed as RFamide-related peptide (RFRP)-1 and -3 that too have an LPXRFamide (X=L or Q) motif at their C-terminus. GnIH and its orthologs form a member of the RFamide peptide family. GnIH signals via its canonical G protein coupled receptor 147 (GPR147). Both GnIH and GPR147 are expressed in hypothalamus and other brain regions. Besides actions through the hypothalamic GnRH and kisspeptinergic neurons, GnIH-GPR147 signaling exerts inhibitory effect on the reproductive axis via pituitary gonadotropes and directly at gonadal level. Various factors including availability and quality of food, photoperiod, temperature, social interaction, various stresses and some diseases modulate GnIH-GPR147 signaling. In this review, we have discussed expression and actions of GnIH and its orthologs in vertebrates. Special emphasis is given on the role of GnIH-GPR147 signaling pathway in the regulation of reproduction. We have also reviewed and discussed currently available literature on the participation of GnIH-GPR147 signaling pathway in the stress modulation of reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahim Ullah
- Department of Endocrinology, Children Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan; Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Yi Shen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Ke Huang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan; Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Jun-Fen Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, Children Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Fazal Wahab
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center, Leibniz-Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Gottingen, Germany
| | - Muhammad Shahab
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
106
|
Kleinau G, Kalveram L, Köhrle J, Szkudlinski M, Schomburg L, Biebermann H, Grüters-Kieslich A. Minireview: Insights Into the Structural and Molecular Consequences of the TSH-β Mutation C105Vfs114X. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 30:954-64. [PMID: 27387040 DOI: 10.1210/me.2016-1065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Naturally occurring thyrotropin (TSH) mutations are rare, which is also the case for the homologous heterodimeric glycoprotein hormones (GPHs) follitropin (FSH), lutropin (LH), and choriogonadotropin (CG). Patients with TSH-inactivating mutations present with central congenital hypothyroidism. Here, we summarize insights into the most frequent loss-of-function β-subunit of TSH mutation C105Vfs114X, which is associated with isolated TSH deficiency. This review will address the following question. What is currently known on the molecular background of this TSH variant on a protein level? It has not yet been clarified how C105Vfs114X causes early symptoms in affected patients, which are comparably severe to those observed in newborns lacking any functional thyroid tissue (athyreosis). To better understand the mechanisms of this mutant, we have summarized published reports and complemented this information with a structural perspective on GPHs. By including the ancestral TSH receptor agonist thyrostimulin and pathogenic mutations reported for FSH, LH, and choriogonadotropin in the analysis, insightful structure function and evolutionary restrictions become apparent. However, comparisons of immunogenicity and bioactivity of different GPH variants is hindered by a lack of consensus for functional analysis and the diversity of used GPH assays. Accordingly, relevant gaps of knowledge concerning details of GPH mutation-related effects are identified and highlighted in this review. These issues are of general importance as several previous and recent studies point towards the high impact of GPH variants in differential signaling regulation at GPH receptors (GPHRs), both endogenously and under diseased conditions. Further improvement in this area is of decisive importance for the development of novel targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Kleinau
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Laura Kalveram
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Josef Köhrle
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Mariusz Szkudlinski
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Lutz Schomburg
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Heike Biebermann
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Annette Grüters-Kieslich
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| |
Collapse
|
107
|
Zhu X, Ye H, Fu Y. The Utrogestan and hMG protocol in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation during IVF/ICSI treatments. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4193. [PMID: 27428219 PMCID: PMC4956813 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor oocyte quality is a main concern for decreased reproductive outcomes in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). A primary way to improve oocyte quality is to optimize the COH protocol. It was demonstrated that the viable embryo rate per oocyte retrieved in the Utrogestan and hMG protocol, a novel regimen based on frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET), is statistically higher than that in the short protocol. Thus, a retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the endocrine characteristics and clinical outcomes in PCOS patients subjected to the Utrogestan and hMG protocol compared with those subjected to the short protocol.One hundred twenty three PCOS patients enrolled in the study group and were simultaneously administered Utrogestan and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) from cycle day 3 until the trigger day. When the dominant follicles matured, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) 0.1 mg was used as the trigger. A short protocol was applied in the control group including 77 PCOS women. Viable embryos were cryopreserved for later transfer in both groups. The primary outcome was the viable embryo rate per oocyte retrieved. The secondary outcomes included the number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, and clinical pregnancy outcomes from FET cycles.The pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) level was suppressed in most patients; however, the LH level in 13 women, whose basic LH level was more than 10 IU/L, surpassed 10 IU/L on menstruation cycle day (MC)9-11 and decreased subsequently. No significant between-group differences were observed in the number of oocytes retrieved (13.27 ± 7.46 vs 13.1 ± 7.98), number of viable embryos (5.57 ± 3.27 vs 5 ± 2.79), mature oocyte rate (90.14 ± 11.81% vs 93.02 ± 8.95%), and cleavage rate (97.69 ± 6.22% vs 95.89 ± 9.57%). The fertilization rate (76.11 ± 19.04% vs 69.34 ± 21.81%; P < 0.05), viable embryo rate per oocyte retrieved (39.85% vs 34.68%; P < 0.05), biochemical pregnancy rate (71.72% vs 56.67%; P < 0.05), clinical pregnancy rate (64.65% vs 51.65%; P < 0.05), and implantation rate (46.46% vs 31.35%; P < 0.05) in the study group were significant higher than those in the control group.This study shows that the Utrogestan and hMG protocol was feasible to improve the oocyte quality, possibly providing a new choice for PCOS patients undergoing IVF/ICSI treatments in combination with embryo cryopreservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yonglun Fu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
108
|
Nistal M, Paniagua R, González-Peramato P, Reyes-Múgica M. Perspectives in Pediatric Pathology, Chapter 18. Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadisms. Pediatric and Pubertal Presentations. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2016; 19:291-309. [PMID: 27135528 DOI: 10.2350/16-04-1810-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Nistal
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paniagua
- 2 Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Alcala, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Miguel Reyes-Múgica
- 3 Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
109
|
Mahmood J, Shamah AA, Creed TM, Pavlovic R, Matsui H, Kimura M, Molitoris J, Shukla H, Jackson I, Vujaskovic Z. Radiation-induced erectile dysfunction: Recent advances and future directions. Adv Radiat Oncol 2016; 1:161-169. [PMID: 28740886 PMCID: PMC5514009 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men in the United States. A large number of patients undergo radiation therapy (RT) as a standard care of treatment; however, RT causes erectile dysfunction (radiation-induced erectile dysfunction; RiED) because of late side effects after RT that significantly affects quality of life of prostate cancer patients. Within 5 years of RT, approximately 50% of patients could develop RiED. Based on the past and current research findings and number of publications from our group, the precise mechanism of RiED is under exploration in detail. Recent investigations have shown prostate RT induces significant morphologic arterial damage with aberrant alterations in internal pudendal arterial tone. Prostatic RT also reduces motor function in the cavernous nerve which may attribute to axonal degeneration may contributing to RiED. Furthermore, the advances in radiogenomics such as radiation induced somatic mutation identification, copy number variation and genome-wide association studies has significantly facilitated identification of biomarkers that could be used to monitoring radiation-induced late toxicity and damage to the nerves; thus, genomic- and proteomic-based biomarkers could greatly improve treatment and minimize arterial tissue and nerve damage. Further, advanced technologies such as proton beam therapy that precisely target tumor and significantly reduce off-target damage to vital organs and healthy tissues. In this review, we summarize recent advances in RiED research and novel treatment modalities for RiED. We also discuss the possible molecular mechanism involved in the development of RiED in prostate cancer patients. Further, we discuss various readily available methods as well as novel strategies such as stem cell therapies, shockwave therapy, nerve grafting with tissue engineering, and nutritional supplementations might be used to mitigate or cure sexual dysfunction following radiation treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javed Mahmood
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aksinija A Shamah
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - T Michael Creed
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Radmila Pavlovic
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hotaka Matsui
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Masaki Kimura
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jason Molitoris
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hem Shukla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Isabel Jackson
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zeljko Vujaskovic
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
110
|
Patel H, Bhartiya D. Testicular Stem Cells Express Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptors and Are Directly Modulated by FSH. Reprod Sci 2016; 23:1493-1508. [PMID: 27189070 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116643593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Testicular spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are a heterogeneous population of stem cells, and definitive marker for the most primitive subset that undergoes asymmetric cell division remains to be identified. A novel subpopulation of pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) has been reported in both human and mouse testes. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptors (FSHRs) are expressed on Sertoli cells in testis and on granulosa cells in ovary, but recently FSHRs are reported on VSELs in ovaries, bone marrow, and cord blood. The present study was aimed to investigate whether FSHRs are also expressed on testicular stem cells (VSELs and SSCs) and their possible modulation by FSH using intact and chemoablated (25 mg/kg busulfan) mice. Chemoablated testis was a better model to study stem cell biology since quiescent stem cells survive along with the Sertoli cells in the tubules. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen-positive, small-sized cells presumed to be VSELs were clearly visualized, and flow cytometry analysis revealed an increase in LIN-/CD45-/SCA-1+ VSELs from 0.045±0.008% to 0.1±0.03% of total cells in chemoablated testis after FSH treatment. Very small embryonic-like stem cells expressing nuclear octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT-4) and SSCs with cytoplasmic OCT-4 were detected. Very small embryonic-like stem cells (Oct-4A, Sca-1, Nanog), SSCs (Oct-4), and proliferation (Pcna) specific transcripts were upregulated on FSH treatment. Stem cells expressed FSHR and were stimulated by FSH, and Fshr3 was the predominant transcript maximally modulated by FSH. Nuclear OCT-4 and SCA-1 (stem cell antigen 1) positive VSELs are the most primitive stem cells in testis, and FSH stimulates them to undergo asymmetric cell division including self-renewal and give rise to SSCs, which in turn proliferate rapidly and undergo clonal expansion and further differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
111
|
|
112
|
González-Navarro FF, Belanche-Muñoz LA, Gámez-Moreno MG, Flores-Ríos BL, Ibarra-Esquer JE, López-Morteo GA. Gene discovery for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy by machine learning techniques. Genes Genet Syst 2016; 90:343-56. [PMID: 26960968 DOI: 10.1266/ggs.15-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a neuromuscular disorder that shows a preference for the facial, shoulder and upper arm muscles. FSHD affects about one in 20-400,000 people, and no effective therapeutic strategies are known to halt disease progression or reverse muscle weakness or atrophy. Many genes may be incorrectly regulated in affected muscle tissue, but the mechanisms responsible for the progressive muscle weakness remain largely unknown. Although machine learning (ML) has made significant inroads in biomedical disciplines such as cancer research, no reports have yet addressed FSHD analysis using ML techniques. This study explores a specific FSHD data set from a ML perspective. We report results showing a very promising small group of genes that clearly separates FSHD samples from healthy samples. In addition to numerical prediction figures, we show data visualizations and biological evidence illustrating the potential usefulness of these results.
Collapse
|
113
|
Zhang Z, Zhu B, Ge W. Genetic analysis of zebrafish gonadotropin (FSH and LH) functions by TALEN-mediated gene disruption. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 29:76-98. [PMID: 25396299 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate reproduction is controlled by two gonadotropins (FSH and LH) from the pituitary. Despite numerous studies on FSH and LH in fish species, their functions in reproduction still remain poorly defined. This is partly due to the lack of powerful genetic approaches for functional studies in adult fish. This situation is now changing with the emergence of genome-editing technologies, especially Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nuclease (TALEN) and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR). In this study, we deleted the hormone-specific β-genes of both FSH and LH in the zebrafish using TALEN. This was followed by a phenotype analysis for key reproductive events, including gonadal differentiation, puberty onset, gametogenesis, final maturation, and fertility. FSH-deficient zebrafish (fshb(-/-)) were surprisingly fertile in both sexes; however, the development of both the ovary and testis was significantly delayed. In contrast, LH-deficient zebrafish (lhb(-/-)) showed normal gonadal growth, but the females failed to spawn and were therefore infertile. Using previtellogenic follicles as the marker, we observed a significant delay of puberty onset in the fshb mutant but not the lhb mutant females. Interestingly, FSH seemed to play a role in maintaining the female status because we repeatedly observed sexual reversal in the fshb mutant. Neither the fshb nor lhb mutation alone seemed to affect gonadal differentiation; however, the double mutation of the two genes led to all males, although the development of the testis was significantly delayed. In summary, our data confirmed some well-known functions of FSH and LH in fish while also providing evidence for novel functions, which would be difficult to reveal using traditional biochemical and physiological approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., B.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; and Faculty of Health Sciences (Z.Z., W.G.), University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
114
|
Ben Hadj Hmida I, Mougou-Zerelli S, Hadded A, Dimassi S, Kammoun M, Bignon-Topalovic J, Bibi M, Saad A, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K. Novel homozygous nonsense mutations in the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHCGR) gene associated with 46,XY primary amenorrhea. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:225-229.e11. [PMID: 27016457 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the genetic cause of 46,XY primary amenorrhea in three 46,XY girls. DESIGN Whole exome sequencing. SETTING University cytogenetics center. PATIENT(S) Three patients with unexplained 46,XY primary amenorrhea were included in the study. INTERVENTION(S) Potentially pathogenic variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing, and familial segregation was determined where parents' DNA was available. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Exome sequencing was performed in the three patients, and the data were analyzed for potentially pathogenic mutations. The functional consequences of mutations were predicted. RESULT(S) Three novel homozygous nonsense mutations in the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHCGR) gene were identified:c.1573 C→T, p.Gln525Ter, c.1435 C→T p.Arg479Ter, and c.508 C→T, p.Gln170Ter. CONCLUSION(S) Inactivating mutations of the LHCGR gene may be a more common cause of 46,XY primary amenorrhea than previously considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imen Ben Hadj Hmida
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Reproductive Biology, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia; Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Soumaya Mougou-Zerelli
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Reproductive Biology, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Anis Hadded
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Sarra Dimassi
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Reproductive Biology, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Molka Kammoun
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Reproductive Biology, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | | | - Mohamed Bibi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Fattouma Bourguiba Teaching Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ali Saad
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Reproductive Biology, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
115
|
Chu L, Li J, Liu Y, Cheng CHK. Gonadotropin Signaling in Zebrafish Ovary and Testis Development: Insights From Gene Knockout Study. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:1743-58. [PMID: 26452104 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Using the transcription activator-like effectors nucleases-mediated gene knockout technology, we have previously demonstrated that LH signaling is required for oocyte maturation and ovulation but is dispensable for testis development in zebrafish. Here, we have further established the fshb and fshr knockout zebrafish lines. In females, fshb mutant is subfertile, whereas fshr mutant is infertile. Folliculogenesis is partially affected in the fshb mutant but is completely arrested at the primary growth stage in the fshr mutant. In males, fshb and fshr mutant are fertile. The fertilization rate and histological structure of the testis is not affected. However, double knockout of fshb;lhb or fshr;lhr leads to all infertile male offspring. The key steroid hormones and steroidogenic genes are dramatically decreased in double knockout mutant (fshb;lhb and fshr;lhr) but not in single knockout mutant (fshb, lhb, fshr, and lhr) males. Furthermore, we have also demonstrated the constitutive activities of both FSH receptor (FSHR) and LH receptor in zebrafish and the compensatory role of LH by cross-reacting with FSHR in the fshb;lhr double mutant, thus explaining the phenotypic discrepancy observed among the ligand/receptor mutant lines. Taken together, our data established the following models on the roles of gonadotropin signaling in zebrafish gonad development. In females, FSH signaling is mainly responsible for promoting follicular growth, whereas LH signaling is mainly responsible for stimulating oocyte maturation and ovulation. In males, the functions of FSH and LH signaling overlap, and only disruption of both FSH and LH signaling could lead to the infertile phenotype. In the absence of FSH, LH could play a compensatory role by cross-reacting with FSHR in both male and female.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lianhe Chu
- School of Biomedical Sciences (L.C., J.L., Y.L., C.H.K.C.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; and College of Life Sciences (J.L.), Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Jianzhen Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences (L.C., J.L., Y.L., C.H.K.C.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; and College of Life Sciences (J.L.), Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences (L.C., J.L., Y.L., C.H.K.C.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; and College of Life Sciences (J.L.), Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Christopher H K Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences (L.C., J.L., Y.L., C.H.K.C.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; and College of Life Sciences (J.L.), Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| |
Collapse
|
116
|
Zhang Z, Lau SW, Zhang L, Ge W. Disruption of Zebrafish Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (fshr) But Not Luteinizing Hormone Receptor (lhcgr) Gene by TALEN Leads to Failed Follicle Activation in Females Followed by Sexual Reversal to Males. Endocrinology 2015; 156:3747-62. [PMID: 25993524 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins are primary hormones that control vertebrate reproduction. In a recent study, we analyzed the impacts of FSH and LH on zebrafish reproduction by disrupting FSH and LH-β genes (fshb and lhb) using transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) technology. Using the same approach, we successfully deleted FSH and LH receptor genes (fshr and lhcgr) in the present study. In contrast to the deficiency of its cognate ligand FSH, the fshr-deficient females showed a complete failure of follicle activation with all ovarian follicles arrested at the primary growth-previtellogenic transition, which is the marker for puberty onset in females. Interestingly, after blockade at the primary growth stage for varying times, all females reversed to males, and all these males were fertile. In fshr-deficient males, spermatogenesis was normal in adults, but the initiation of spermatogenesis in juveniles was retarded. In contrast to fshr, the deletion of the lhcgr gene alone caused no obvious phenotypes in both males and females; however, double mutation of fshr and lhcgr resulted in infertile males. In summary, our results in the present study showed that Fshr was indispensable to folliculogenesis and the disruption of the fshr gene resulted in a complete failure of follicle activation followed by masculinization into males. In contrast, lhcgr does not seem to be essential to zebrafish reproduction in both males and females. Neither Fshr nor Lhcgr deficiency could phenocopy the deficiency of their cognate ligands FSH and LH, which is likely due to the fact that Fshr can be activated by both FSH and LH in the zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (Z.Z., W.G.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau China; and School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., S.-W.L., L.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shuk-Wa Lau
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (Z.Z., W.G.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau China; and School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., S.-W.L., L.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (Z.Z., W.G.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau China; and School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., S.-W.L., L.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (Z.Z., W.G.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau China; and School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., S.-W.L., L.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
117
|
Graves J, Markman S, Alegranti Y, Gechtler J, Johnson RI, Cagan R, Ben-Menahem D. The LH/CG receptor activates canonical signaling pathway when expressed in Drosophila. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 413:145-56. [PMID: 26112185 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their ligands provide precise tissue regulation and are therefore often restricted to specific animal phyla. For example, the gonadotropins and their receptors are crucial for vertebrate reproduction but absent from invertebrates. In mammals, LHR mainly couples to the PKA signaling pathway, and CREB is the major transcription factor of this pathway. Here we present the results of expressing elements of the human gonadotropin system in Drosophila. Specifically, we generated transgenic Drosophila expressing the human LH/CG receptor (denoted as LHR), a constitutively active form of LHR, and an hCG analog. We demonstrate activation-dependent signaling by LHR to direct Drosophila phenotypes including lethality and specific midline defects; these phenotypes were due to LHR activation of PKA/CREB pathway activity. That the LHR can act in an invertebrate demonstrates the conservation of factors required for GPCR function among phylogenetically distant organisms. This novel gonadotropin model may assist the identification of new modulators of mammalian fertility by exploiting the powerful genetic and pharmacological tools available in Drosophila.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Graves
- Dept. of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New-York, NY, USA
| | - Svetlana Markman
- Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Yair Alegranti
- Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Jenia Gechtler
- Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ruth I Johnson
- Dept. of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New-York, NY, USA
| | - Ross Cagan
- Dept. of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New-York, NY, USA
| | - David Ben-Menahem
- Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
118
|
Statistical Genomic Approach Identifies Association between FSHR Polymorphisms and Polycystic Ovary Morphology in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:483726. [PMID: 26273622 PMCID: PMC4529894 DOI: 10.1155/2015/483726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene are associated with PCOS. However, their relationship to the polycystic ovary (PCO) morphology remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether PCOS related SNPs in the FSHR gene are associated with PCO in women with PCOS. Methods. Patients were grouped into PCO (n = 384) and non-PCO (n = 63) groups. Genomic genotypes were profiled using Affymetrix human genome SNP chip 6. Two polymorphisms (rs2268361 and rs2349415) of FSHR were analyzed using a statistical approach. Results. Significant differences were found in the allele distributions of the GG genotype of rs2268361 between the PCO and non-PCO groups (27.6% GG, 53.4% GA, and 19.0% AA versus 33.3% GG, 36.5% GA, and 30.2% AA), while no significant differences were found in the allele distributions of the GG genotype of rs2349415. When rs2268361 was considered, there were statistically significant differences of serum follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, and sex hormone binding globulin between genotypes in the PCO group. In case of the rs2349415 SNP, only serum sex hormone binding globulin was statistically different between genotypes in the PCO group. Conclusions. Functional variants in FSHR gene may contribute to PCO susceptibility in women with PCOS.
Collapse
|
119
|
Dai XN, Liu S, Shao L, Gao C, Gao L, Liu JY, Cui YG. Expression of the SET protein in testes of mice at different developmental stages. Asian J Androl 2015; 16:689-93. [PMID: 24923460 PMCID: PMC4215651 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.129937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
SET is a multifunctional protein involved in regulating many biological processes of the cell cycle. It is also a regulator of steroidogenesis in the ovary. However, the expression of SET protein in testis, and its function, still remains ambiguous. In this study, we observed the expression of SET in the testes of mice at different developmental stages, and have discussed its potential function in regulating spermatogenesis and androgen production. Forty-eight male mice at different developmental stages (1 week old as the infancy group; 4 weeks old as the prepubertal group; 12 weeks old as the adult group; over 12 months old as the ageing group) were used. Cellular location of SET protein in the testes was observed by immuno-histochemistry. Expression levels of Set mRNA and SET protein were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. SET protein was expressed in spermatogonial cells and spermatocytes; the highest level was mainly in haploid and tetraploid cells of the prepubertal and adult groups, and Leydig cells of the adult and ageing groups. There was a low expression in Sertoli cells. Expression of Set mRNA in the prepubertal group was significantly higher than that in the adult group (P < 0.05), while expression of SET protein was at the highest level in the adult group (P < 0.05). SET protein is mainly expressed in spermatogonial cells and spermatocytes, and poorly expressed in Sertoli cells, suggesting that it is involved in spermatogenesis. Expression of SET protein in Leydig cells suggests a possible role in steroidogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yu-Gui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
120
|
Malhotra SS, Suman P, Gupta SK. Alpha or beta human chorionic gonadotropin knockdown decrease BeWo cell fusion by down-regulating PKA and CREB activation. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11210. [PMID: 26053549 PMCID: PMC4459146 DOI: 10.1038/srep11210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to delineate the role of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in trophoblast fusion. In this direction, using shRNA lentiviral particles, α- and β-hCG silenced ‘BeWo’ cell lines were generated. Treatment of both α- and β-hCG silenced BeWo cells with either forskolin or exogenous hCG showed a significant reduction in cell fusion as compared with control shRNA treated cells. Studies by qRT-PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence revealed down-regulation of fusion-associated proteins such as syncytin-1 and syndecan-1 in the α- and β-hCG silenced cells. Delineation of downstream signaling pathways revealed that phosphorylation of PKA and CREB were compromised in the silenced cells whereas, no significant changes in p38MAPK and ERK1/2 phosphorylation were observed. Moreover, β-catenin activation was unaffected by either α- or β-hCG silencing. Further, inhibition of PKA by H89 inhibitor led to a significant decrease in BeWo cell fusion but had no effect on β-catenin activation suggesting the absence of non-canonical β-catenin stabilization via PKA. Interestingly, canonical activation of β-catenin was associated with the up-regulation of Wnt 10b expression. In summary, this study establishes the significance of hCG in the fusion of trophoblastic BeWo cells, but there may be additional factors involved in this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Saryu Malhotra
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi-110 067, India
| | - Pankaj Suman
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Sector-125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh-201 301, India
| | - Satish Kumar Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi-110 067, India
| |
Collapse
|
121
|
Hai L, McGee SR, Rabideau AC, Paquet M, Narayan P. Infertility in Female Mice with a Gain-of-Function Mutation in the Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Is Due to Irregular Estrous Cyclicity, Anovulation, Hormonal Alterations, and Polycystic Ovaries. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:16. [PMID: 26040673 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The luteinizing hormone receptor, LHCGR, is essential for fertility in males and females, and genetic mutations in the receptor have been identified that result in developmental and reproductive defects. We have previously generated and characterized a mouse model (KiLHR(D582G)) for familial male-limited precocious puberty caused by an activating mutation in the receptor. We demonstrated that the phenotype of the KiLHR(D582G) male mice is an accurate phenocopy of male patients with activating LHCGR mutations. In this study, we observed that unlike women with activating LHCGR mutations who are normal, female KiLHR(D582G) mice are infertile. Mice exhibit irregular estrous cyclicity, anovulation, and precocious puberty. A temporal study from 2-24 wk of age indicated elevated levels of progesterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and estradiol and upregulation of several steroidogenic enzyme genes. Ovaries of KiLHR(D582G) mice exhibited significant pathology with the development of large hemorrhagic cysts as early as 3 wk of age, extensive stromal cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy with luteinization, numerous atretic follicles, and granulosa cell tumors. Ovulation could not be rescued by the addition of exogenous gonadotropins. The body weights of the KiLHR(D582G) mice were higher than wild-type counterparts, but there was no increase in the body fat composition or metabolic abnormalities such as impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. These studies demonstrate that activating LHCGR mutations do not produce the same phenotype in female mice as in humans and clearly illustrate species differences in the expression and regulation of LHCGR in the ovary, but not in the testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Hai
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois
| | - Stacey R McGee
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois
| | - Amanda C Rabideau
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Prema Narayan
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
122
|
Yan P, He W, Wu Y, Chen Z, He H, Ni B, Zhang J, Yang X, Shen Z, Fu X, Liang Z, Li J. Enhanced Suppression of Fertility Can be Achieved by Priming with FSHR and Eppin and Further Boosting with Their B-cell Epitope Peptides. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 74:156-68. [PMID: 25864521 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuzhang Wu
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengqiong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyang He
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zigang Shen
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaolan Fu
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiqing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jintao Li
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
123
|
|
124
|
Yao K, Ge W. Differential regulation of kit ligand A (kitlga) expression in the zebrafish ovarian follicle cells--evidence for the existence of a cyclic adenosine 3', 5' monophosphate-mediated binary regulatory system during folliculogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 402:21-31. [PMID: 25542847 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 12/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Kit ligand (Kitl) is an important paracrine factor involved in the activation of primordial follicles from the quiescent pool and in the maintenance of meiotic arrest before germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD). It has been reported that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates but luteinizing hormone (LH) suppresses the expression of Kitl in the granulosa cells in mammals. Considering that both gonadotropins signal in the follicle cells mainly by activating cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cAMP) pathway, we are intrigued by how cAMP differentially regulates Kitl expression. In the present study, we demonstrated that both human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) inhibited insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I)-induced Akt phosphorylation and kitlga expression in the zebrafish follicle cells. Further experiments showed that cAMP was involved in regulating the expression of kitlga. However, two cAMP-activated effectors, protein kinase A (PKA) and exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac), had converse effects. PKA promoted whereas Epac inhibited the expression of kitlga, as demonstrated by the respective activators. Interestingly, cAMP also appeared to exert differential effects on kitlga expression at different stages of follicle development during folliculogenesis, significantly stimulating kitlga expression at the early growth stage but suppressing it at the full-grown stage before final oocyte maturation, implying a potential mechanism for differential effects of the same pathway at different stages. The inhibitory effect of forskolin (activator of adenylate cyclase) and H89 (inhibitor of PKA) on IGF-I-induced expression of kitlga suggested cross-talk between the cAMP and IGF-I-activated PI3K-Akt pathways. This study, together with our previous findings on IGF-I regulation of kitlga expression, provides important clues to the underlying mechanism that regulates Kit ligand expression during folliculogenesis in the ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yao
- School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Ge
- School of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell and Developmental Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
The Asn680Ser polymorphism of the follicle stimulating hormone receptor gene and ovarian cancer risk: a meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 31:683-8. [PMID: 24658926 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0218-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to assess the association between FSHR Asn680Ser polymorphism and ovarian cancer susceptibility. METHODS A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for all relevant studies published up to September 2013. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with the corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs) were calculated to evaluate the association. RESULTS Four case-control studies including 474 ovarian cancer cases and 659 controls met the inclusion criteria. The pooled analyses showed that FSHR Asn680Ser polymorphism was associated with the risk of ovarian cancer (Ser vs Asn: OR=1.295, 95 % CI 1.057-1.498, P=0.01; Ser/Ser + Asn/Ser vs Asn/Asn: OR=1.611, 95 % CI 1.027-2.528, P=0.038). Subgroup analyses by ethnicity (Caucasian and Asian) further revealed significant associations among Asians (Ser vs Asn: OR=1.386, 95 % CI 1.066-1.802, P=0.015; Ser/Ser + Asn/Ser vs Asn/Asn: OR=1.893, 95 % CI 1.329-2.689, P=0.000) but not Caucasians. There was no obvious risk of publication bias. CONCLUSIONS The meta-analysis suggests that FSHR Asn680Ser polymorphism may be a risk factor for ovarian cancer in Asians. Due to the limited quantity of the included studies, further studies are needed to validate the above conclusions.
Collapse
|
126
|
Liu JC, Shen WC, Shih TC, Tsai CW, Chang WS, Cho DY, Tsai CH, Bau DT. The current progress and future prospects of personalized radiogenomic cancer study. Biomedicine (Taipei) 2015; 5:2. [PMID: 25705582 PMCID: PMC4328115 DOI: 10.7603/s40681-015-0002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last twenty years, mounting studies have supported the hypothesis that there is a genetic component that plays an important role in clinically observed variability in individual tissue/organ toxicity after radiotherapy. We propose the term “Personalized Radiogenomics” for the translational study of individual genetic variations that may associate with or contribute to the responses of tissues to radiation therapy used in the treatment of all types of cancer. The missions of personalized radiogenomic research are 1) to reveal the related genes, proteins, and biological pathways responsible for non-tumor or tumor tissue toxicity resulting from radiotherapy that could be targeted with radio-sensitizing and/or radio-protective agents, and 2) to identify specific genetic markers that can be used in risk prediction and evaluation models before and after clinical cancer surgery. For the members of the Terry Fox Cancer Research Lab in China Medical University and Hospital, the long-term goal is to develop SNP-based risk models that can be used to stratify patients to more precisely tailored radiotherapy protocols. Worldwide, the field has evolved over the last two decades in parallel with rapid advances in genetic and genomic technology, moving step by step from narrowly focused candidate gene studies to large-scale, collaborative genome-wide association studies. This article will summarize the candidate gene association studies published so far from the Terry Fox Cancer Research Lab as well as worldwide on the risk of radiation-related cancers and highlight some wholegenome association studies showing feasibility in fulfilling the dream of personalized radiogenomic cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juhn-Cherng Liu
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan ; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Chung Shen
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan ; Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Ching Shih
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan ; Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Tsai
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Shin Chang
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Der-Yang Cho
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Hai Tsai
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Da-Tian Bau
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 404 Taichung, Taiwan ; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, 404 Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
127
|
Bernard V, Bouvattier C, Christin-Maitre S. [Therapeutic issues concerning male fertility]. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2015; 75 Suppl 1:S13-20. [PMID: 25617918 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-4266(14)70023-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Men reproductive health has long been ignored although it is responsible for 50% of couple's infertility. However, in recent years, the understanding of endocrine physiology underlying testis development and spermatogenesis has enabled the development of new therapeutic strategies. Some concern the management of male infertility. Others are dealing with finding an effective male contraceptive. In this review, we first present the management of infertility, in patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. We then describe the major improvements for Klinefelter patient's infertility. Finally, we review the different hormonal and non-hormonal methods for male contraception, currently in development. Efficacy and safety of the some non-hormonal methods remain to be demonstrated so far in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Bernard
- Unité INSERM 693, 63 rue Gabriel-Péri, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre cedex, France.
| | - C Bouvattier
- Service d'endocrinologie et diabétologie pédiatrique, CHU de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - S Christin-Maitre
- Service d'endocrinologie et maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
128
|
Zhang XF, Zhang T, Han Z, Liu JC, Liu YP, Ma JY, Li L, Shen W. Transgenerational inheritance of ovarian development deficiency induced by maternal diethylhexyl phthalate exposure. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:1213-21. [DOI: 10.1071/rd14113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used industrial additive for increasing plastic flexibility. It disrupts the physiological functions of endogenous hormones and induces abnormal development of mammals. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of DEHP exposure on ovarian development of pregnant mice and whether the effects are inheritable. We found that the synthesis of oestradiol in pregnant mice after DEHP exposure was significantly decreased, and that the first meiotic progression of female fetal germ cells was delayed. Furthermore, the DNA methylation level of Stra8 was increased and the expression levels of Stra8 were significantly decreased. An accelerated rate of follicle recruitment in F1 mice was responsible for the depletion of the primordial-follicle pool. Maternal DEHP exposure also significantly accelerated the recruitment of primordial follicles in F2 mice. In conclusion, our results indicated that maternal DEHP exposure induced ovarian development deficiency, which was transgenerational in mice.
Collapse
|
129
|
|
130
|
Narayan P. Genetic Models for the Study of Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:152. [PMID: 26483755 PMCID: PMC4586495 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) is essential for fertility in men and women. LHCGR binds luteinizing hormone (LH) as well as the highly homologous chorionic gonadotropin. Signaling from LHCGR is required for steroidogenesis and gametogenesis in males and females and for sexual differentiation in the male. The importance of LHCGR in reproductive physiology is underscored by the large number of naturally occurring inactivating and activating mutations in the receptor that result in reproductive disorders. Consequently, several genetically modified mouse models have been developed for the study of LHCGR function. They include targeted deletion of LH and LHCGR that mimic inactivating mutations in hormone and receptor, expression of a constitutively active mutant in LHCGR that mimics activating mutations associated with familial male-limited precocious puberty and transgenic models of LH and hCG overexpression. This review summarizes the salient findings from these models and their utility in understanding the physiological and pathological consequences of loss and gain of function in LHCGR signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prema Narayan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
- *Correspondence: Prema Narayan, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, LSIII, 1135 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
131
|
Follicle-stimulating hormone regulates expression and activity of epidermal growth factor receptor in the murine ovarian follicle. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:16778-83. [PMID: 25385589 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1414648111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility depends on the precise coordination of multiple events within the ovarian follicle to ensure ovulation of a fertilizable egg. FSH promotes late follicular development, including expression of luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor by the granulosa cells. Expression of its receptor permits the subsequent LH surge to trigger the release of ligands that activate EGF receptors (EGFR) on the granulosa, thereby initiating the ovulatory events. Here we identify a previously unknown role for FSH in this signaling cascade. We show that follicles of Fshb(-/-) mice, which cannot produce FSH, have a severely impaired ability to support two essential EGFR-regulated events: expansion of the cumulus granulosa cell layer that encloses the oocyte and meiotic maturation of the oocyte. These defects are not caused by an inability of Fshb(-/-) oocytes to produce essential oocyte-secreted factors or of Fshb(-/-) cumulus cells to respond. In contrast, although expression of both Egfr and EGFR increases during late folliculogenesis in Fshb(+/-) females, these increases fail to occur in Fshb(-/-) females. Remarkably, supplying a single dose of exogenous FSH activity to Fshb(-/-) females is sufficient to increase Egfr and EGFR expression and to restore EGFR-dependent cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation. These studies show that FSH induces an increase in EGFR expression during late folliculogenesis and provide evidence that the FSH-dependent increase is necessary for EGFR physiological function. Our results demonstrate an unanticipated role for FSH in establishing the signaling axis that coordinates ovulatory events and may contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of some types of human infertility.
Collapse
|
132
|
Chamouni A, Oury F. Reciprocal interaction between bone and gonads. Arch Biochem Biophys 2014; 561:147-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
133
|
Shiraishi K. Hormonal therapy for non-obstructive azoospermia: basic and clinical perspectives. Reprod Med Biol 2014; 14:65-72. [PMID: 29259404 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-014-0193-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a standard therapeutic option for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Hormonal treatment has been believed to be ineffective for NOA because of high gonadotropin levels; however, several studies have stimulated spermatogenesis before or after micro-TESE by using anti-estrogens, aromatase inhibitors, and gonadotropins. These results remain controversial; however, it is obvious that some of the patients showed a distinct improvement in sperm retrieval by micro-TESE, and sperm was observed in the ejaculates of a small number of NOA patients. One potential way to improve spermatogenesis is by optimizing the intratesticular testosterone (ITT) levels. ITT has been shown to be increased after hCG-based hormonal therapy. The androgen receptor that is located on Sertoli cells plays a major role in spermatogenesis, and other hormonal and non-hormonal factors may also be involved. Before establishing a new hormonal treatment protocol to stimulate spermatogenesis in NOA patients, further basic investigations regarding the pathophysiology of spermatogenic impairment are needed. Gaining a better understanding of this issue will allow us to tailor a specific treatment for each patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koji Shiraishi
- Department of Urology Yamaguchi University School of Medicine 755-8505 Ube Yamaguchi Japan
| |
Collapse
|
134
|
Rogenhofer N, Pavlik R, Jeschke U, Wypior G, Ochsenkühn R, Thaler CJ. Effective ovarian stimulation in a patient with resistant ovary syndrome and antigonadotrophin antibodies. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 73:185-91. [PMID: 25123925 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM We report on a successful ovarian stimulation and pregnancy in a patient with 'resistant ovary syndrome' (ROS) and antigonadotrophin antibodies. ROS is characterized by high endogenous gonadotrophins, low estradiol, normal ovarian antral follicle counts and normal antimuellerian hormone values. METHOD OF STUDY After cyclical hormone treatment, downregulation with GnRH analogue and ICSI procedure followed. Granulosa cells were treated with LH, FSH or hMG and expression of receptors for FSH, LH, oestrogen receptor beta (ERb) and progesterone receptor A (PR-A) was determined. Serum of the patient was analysed for antibodies directed against hMG. RESULTS After fertilization of ten metaphase II oocytes and transfer of two blastocysts, a singleton pregnancy was established. Stimulation of granulosa cells with FSH, LH and hMG upregulated ERb and PR-A. Dot blot analysis showed strong reactivity with hMG but not with recFSH. CONCLUSION This patient with normal expression of gonadotrophin receptors showed antibodies directed to hMG but not to recFSH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Rogenhofer
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Campus Innenstadt, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
135
|
Casarini L, Moriondo V, Marino M, Adversi F, Capodanno F, Grisolia C, La Marca A, La Sala GB, Simoni M. FSHR polymorphism p.N680S mediates different responses to FSH in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 393:83-91. [PMID: 24970684 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The single nucleotide polymorphism p.N680S of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor (FSHR) is a discrete marker of ovarian response but previous in vitro studies failed to demonstrate differences in the response to FSH between N and S carrier cells. Here we demonstrate that p.N680S mediates different kinetics of the response to FSH in vitro. Intracellular cAMP production is faster in p.N680S N than in S homozygous human granulosa cells (45 versus 90 min to achieve the plateau, respectively; Mann-Whitney's U-test; p < 0.005; n = 4). Reflecting the cAMP kinetics, phospho-ERK1/2 and -CREB activation, AREG and STARD1 gene expressions and progesterone production were qualitatively and quantitatively different in N versus S homozygous cells. Finally, the blockade of ERK pathway by U0126 abolishes the genotype-mediated different effects on gene expression and progesterone production (Mann-Whitney's U-test; p ≥ 0.005; n = 3).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Valeria Moriondo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Adversi
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Capodanno
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Chiarina Grisolia
- Dept. of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Laboratory of Chemical-Clinical Analysis, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Dept. of Medical and Mother-Infant and Adult Surgical Sciences, Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Dept. of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Azienda USL, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
136
|
Chen M, Hao J, Yang Q, Li G. Effects of icariin on reproductive functions in male rats. Molecules 2014; 19:9502-14. [PMID: 24995929 PMCID: PMC6271987 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19079502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects and potential mechanism(s) of action of icariin on the reproductive functions of male rats. Adult rats were treated orally with icariin at doses of 0 (control), 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg body weight for 35 consecutive days. The results show that icariin had virtually no effect on the body weight or organ coefficients of the testes or epididymides. However, 100 mg/kg icariin significantly increased epididymal sperm counts. In addition, 50 and 100 mg/kg icariin significantly increased testosterone levels. Real-time PCR suggests icariin may be involved in testosterone production via mRNA expression regulation of genes such as peripheral type benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Furthermore, 100 mg/kg icariin treatment also affected follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and claudin-11 mRNA expression in Sertoli cells. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in the testes; 50 and 100 mg/kg icariin treatment improved antioxidative capacity, while 200 mg/kg icariin treatment upregulated oxidative stress. These results collectively suggest that icariin within a certain dose range is beneficial to male reproductive functions; meanwhile, higher doses of icariin may damage reproductive functions by increasing oxidative stress in the testes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maoxin Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Jie Hao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Qiaozhen Yang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Gang Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
137
|
Santi D, Simoni M. Biosimilar recombinant follicle stimulating hormones in infertility treatment. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2014; 14:1399-409. [DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2014.925872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
138
|
Fortin J, Boehm U, Deng CX, Treier M, Bernard DJ. Follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis and fertility depend on SMAD4 and FOXL2. FASEB J 2014; 28:3396-410. [PMID: 24739304 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-249532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an essential regulator of gonadal function and fertility. Loss-of-function mutations in the FSHB/Fshb gene cause hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in humans and mice. Both gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and activins, members of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, stimulate FSH synthesis; yet, their relative roles and mechanisms of action in vivo are unknown. Here, using conditional gene-targeting, we show that the canonical mediator of TGFβ superfamily signaling, SMAD4, is absolutely required for normal FSH synthesis in both male and female mice. Moreover, when the Smad4 gene is ablated in combination with its DNA binding cofactor Foxl2 in gonadotrope cells, mice make essentially no FSH and females are sterile. Indeed, the phenotype of these animals is remarkably similar to that of Fshb-knockout mice. Not only do these results establish SMAD4 and FOXL2 as essential master regulators of Fshb transcription in vivo, they also suggest that activins, or related ligands, could play more important roles in FSH synthesis than GnRH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada;
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA; and
| | - Mathias Treier
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
139
|
Cocco C, Brancia C, D'Amato F, Noli B. Pituitary gonadotropins and autoimmunity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 385:97-104. [PMID: 24153235 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune disease occurs when the body produces an inappropriate immune response against its own tissues producing antibodies, called autoantibodies, reacting to specific antigens. Studies regarding the presence of an autoimmune process specifically involving gonadotropins date from over than 20 years ago, when antibodies to gonadotropic-secreting cells were found by immunofluorescence in sera from a group of patients affected by cryptorchidism. Later on, antibodies detected by the same technique, and directed to the same cells were also found at high titer in sera from patients affected by hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, Kallmann's syndrome, lymphocytic hypophysitis with isolated gonadotropin deficiency, as well as autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome. Concerning the autoimmune target/s within the gonadotropic cells, rarely autoantibodies were found labeling gonadotropins while in a large number of cases, auto-antigens remained to be identified. Since pituitary gonadotropins are fundamental for the sexual maturity and reproductive mechanisms, patients with infertility were largely investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the presence of circulating antibodies likely interfering with gonadotropin activity. In infertile women, autoantibodies to gonadotropins were found related to ovarian autoimmunity, ovarian disorders that cause infertility and also associated with in vitro fertilization treatments. In infertile men, autoantibodies to gonadotropins may alter the testicular spermatogenesis and cause apoptosis of the spermatogenic cells. In conclusion, circulating antibodies were found labeling gonadotropic cells and/or gonadotropins, and in both cases they could create dysfunctions in gonadotropin related mechanism. The intriguing question of what can cause the production of such autoantibodies is not clear yet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cocco
- NEF-Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Carla Brancia
- NEF-Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Filomena D'Amato
- NEF-Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Barbara Noli
- NEF-Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
140
|
Ratner LD, Rulli SB, Huhtaniemi IT. Genetically modified mouse models addressing gonadotropin function. Reprod Biol 2014; 14:9-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
141
|
Karsenty G, Oury F. Regulation of male fertility by the bone-derived hormone osteocalcin. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:521-526. [PMID: 24145129 PMCID: PMC3850748 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, bone has been viewed as a relatively static tissue only fulfilling mechanical and scaffolding function. In the past decade however, this classical view of the bone has considerably evolved towards a more complex picture. It is now clear that the skeleton is not only a recipient for hormonal input but it is also an endocrine organ itself. Through the secretion of an osteoblast-derived molecule, osteocalcin, the skeleton regulates glucose homeostasis and male reproductive functions. When undercarboxylated, osteocalcin acts following its binding to a G-coupled receptor, Gprc6a, on pancreatic β cells to increase insulin secretion, on muscle and white adipose tissue to promote glucose homeostasis and on Leydig cells of the testis to favor testosterone biosynthesis. More recently, it was also shown that osteocalcin acts via a pancreas-bone-testis axis that regulates, independently of and in parallel to the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis, male reproductive functions by promoting testosterone biosynthesis. Lastly, in trying to expand the biological relevance of osteocalcin from mouse to human, it was shown that Gprc6a is a potential new susceptibility locus for primary testicular failure in humans. Altogether, these results shed new light on the importance of the endocrine role of the skeleton and also provide credence to the search for additional endocrine functions of this organ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Karsenty
- Columbia University, Department of Genetics and Development, HHSC 1602, 701 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Franck Oury
- Columbia University, Department of Genetics and Development, HHSC 1602, 701 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
142
|
Landomiel F, Gallay N, Jégot G, Tranchant T, Durand G, Bourquard T, Crépieux P, Poupon A, Reiter E. Biased signalling in follicle stimulating hormone action. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:452-459. [PMID: 24121199 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the control of reproduction by specifically binding to and activating a membrane receptor (FSHR) that belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. Similar to all GPCRs, FSHR activation mechanisms have generally been viewed as a two-state process connecting a unique FSH-bound active receptor to the Gs/cAMP pathway. Over the last decade, paralleling the breakthroughs that were made in the GPCR field, our understanding of FSH actions at the molecular level has dramatically changed. There are numerous facts indicating that the active FSHR is connected to a complex signalling network rather than the sole Gs/cAMP pathway. Consistently, the FSHR probably exists in equilibrium between multiple conformers, a subset of them being stabilized upon ligand binding. Importantly, the nature of the stabilized conformers of the receptor directly depends on the chemical structure of the ligand bound. This implies that it is possible to selectively control the intracellular signalling pathways activated by using biased ligands. Such biased ligands can be of different nature: small chemical molecules, glycosylation variants of the hormone or antibody/hormone complexes. Likewise, mutations or polymorphisms affecting the FSHR can also lead to stabilization of preferential conformers, hence to selective modulation of signalling pathways. These emerging notions offer a new conceptual framework that could potentially lead to the development of more specific drugs while also improving the way FSHR mutants/variants are functionally characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavie Landomiel
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Gallay
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Gwenhael Jégot
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Thibaud Tranchant
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Guillaume Durand
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Thomas Bourquard
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Pascale Crépieux
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Anne Poupon
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France
| | - Eric Reiter
- BIOS group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, F-37041 Tours, France.
| |
Collapse
|
143
|
Kerns SL, Ostrer H, Rosenstein BS. Radiogenomics: using genetics to identify cancer patients at risk for development of adverse effects following radiotherapy. Cancer Discov 2014; 4:155-65. [PMID: 24441285 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-13-0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Normal-tissue adverse effects following radiotherapy are common and significantly affect quality of life. These effects cannot be accounted for by dosimetric, treatment, or demographic factors alone, and evidence suggests that common genetic variants are associated with radiotherapy adverse effects. The field of radiogenomics has evolved to identify such genetic risk factors. Radiogenomics has two goals: (i) to develop an assay to predict which patients with cancer are most likely to develop radiation injuries resulting from radiotherapy, and (ii) to obtain information about the molecular pathways responsible for radiation-induced normal-tissue toxicities. This review summarizes the history of the field and current research. SIGNIFICANCE A single-nucleotide polymorphism–based predictive assay could be used, along with clinical and treatment factors, to estimate the risk that a patient with cancer will develop adverse effects from radiotherapy. Such an assay could be used to personalize therapy and improve quality of life for patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Kerns
- Departments of 1Radiation Oncology and 2Dermatology, Preventive Medicine and Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; 3Department of Radiation Oncology, New York University School of Medicine, New York; Departments of 4Pathology, and 5Genetics and Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
144
|
Ulloa-Aguirre A, Reiter E, Bousfield G, Dias JA, Huhtaniemi I. Constitutive activity in gonadotropin receptors. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2014; 70:37-80. [PMID: 24931192 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-417197-8.00002-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Constitutively active mutants (CAMs) of gonadotropin receptors are, in general, rare conditions. Luteinizing hormone-choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) CAMs provoke the dramatic phenotype of familial gonadotropin-independent isosexual male-limited precocious puberty, whereas in females, there is not yet any identified phenotype. Only one isolated follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) CAM (Asp567Gly) has so far been detected in a single male patient, besides other FSHR weak CAMs linked to pregnancy-associated ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or to impaired desensitization and internalization. Several animal models have been developed for studying enhanced gonadotropin action; in addition to unraveling valuable new information about the possible phenotypes of isolated FSHR and LHCGR CAMs in women, the information obtained from these mouse models has served multiple translational goals, including the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic targets as well as the prediction of phenotypes for mutations not yet identified in humans. Mutagenesis and computational studies have shed important information on the physiopathogenic mechanisms leading to constitutive activity of gonadotropin receptors; a common feature in these receptor CAMs is the release of stabilizing interhelical interactions between transmembrane domains (TMDs) 3 and 6 leading to an increase, with respect to the wild-type receptor, in the solvent accessibility at the cytosolic extension of TMDs 3, 5, and 6, which involves the highly conserved Glu/Asp-Arg-Tyr/Trp sequence. In this chapter, we summarize the structural features, functional consequences, and mechanisms that lead to constitutive activation of gonadotropin receptor CAMs and provide information on pharmacological approaches that might potentially modulate gonadotropin receptor CAM function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Studium Consortium for Research and Training in Reproductive Sciences (sCORTS), Tours, France; Research Support Network, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F., Mexico.
| | - Eric Reiter
- Studium Consortium for Research and Training in Reproductive Sciences (sCORTS), Tours, France; BIOS Group, INRA, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - George Bousfield
- Studium Consortium for Research and Training in Reproductive Sciences (sCORTS), Tours, France; Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas, USA
| | - James A Dias
- Studium Consortium for Research and Training in Reproductive Sciences (sCORTS), Tours, France; Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Studium Consortium for Research and Training in Reproductive Sciences (sCORTS), Tours, France; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
145
|
Kleinau G, Biebermann H. Constitutive activities in the thyrotropin receptor: regulation and significance. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2014; 70:81-119. [PMID: 24931193 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-417197-8.00003-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR, or thyrotropin receptor) is a family A G protein-coupled receptor. It not only binds thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH, or thyrotropin) but also interacts with autoantibodies under pathological conditions. The TSHR and TSH are essential for thyroid growth and function and thus for all thyroid hormone-associated physiological superordinated processes, including metabolism and development of the central nervous system. In vitro studies have found that the TSHR permanently stimulates ligand-independent (constitutive) activation of Gs, which ultimately leads to intracellular cAMP accumulation. Furthermore, a vast variety of constitutively activating mutations of TSHR-at more than 50 different amino acid positions-have been reported to enhance basal signaling. These lead in vivo to a "gain-of-function" phenotype of nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism or toxic adenomas. Moreover, many naturally occurring inactivating mutations are known to cause a "loss-of-function" phenotype, resulting in resistance to thyroid hormone or hyperthyrotropinemia. Several of these mutations are also characterized by impaired basal signaling, and these are designated here as "constitutively inactivating mutations" (CIMs). More than 30 amino acid positions with CIMs have been identified so far. Moreover, the permanent TSHR signaling capacity can also be blocked by inverse agonistic antibodies or small drug-like molecules, which both have a potential for clinical usage. In this chapter, information on constitutive activity in the TSHR is described, including up- and downregulation, linked protein conformations, physiological and pathophysiological conditions, and related intracellular signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Kleinau
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Heike Biebermann
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
146
|
Fortin J, Boehm U, Weinstein MB, Graff JM, Bernard DJ. Follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis and fertility are intact in mice lacking SMAD3 DNA binding activity and SMAD2 in gonadotrope cells. FASEB J 2013; 28:1474-85. [PMID: 24308975 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-237818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The activin/inhibin system regulates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and release by pituitary gonadotrope cells in mammals. In vitro cell line data suggest that activins stimulate FSH β-subunit (Fshb) transcription via complexes containing the receptor-regulated SMAD proteins SMAD2 and SMAD3. Here, we used a Cre-loxP approach to determine the necessity for SMAD2 and/or SMAD3 in FSH synthesis in vivo. Surprisingly, mice with conditional mutations in both Smad2 and Smad3 specifically in gonadotrope cells are fertile and produce FSH at quantitatively normal levels. Notably, however, we discovered that the recombined Smad3 allele produces a transcript that encodes the entirety of the SMAD3 C-terminal Mad homology 2 (MH2) domain. This protein behaves similarly to full-length SMAD3 in Fshb transcriptional assays. As the truncated protein lacks the N-terminal Mad homology 1 (MH1) domain, these results show that SMAD3 DNA-binding activity as well as SMAD2 are dispensable for normal FSH synthesis in vivo. Furthermore, the observation that deletion of proximal exons does not remove all SMAD3 function may facilitate interpretation of divergent phenotypes previously described in different Smad3 knockout mouse lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- 1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Rm. 1315, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada. J.F.,
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
147
|
Yan Y, Gong Z, Zhang L, Li Y, Li X, Zhu L, Sun L. Association of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor polymorphisms with ovarian response in Chinese women: a prospective clinical study. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78138. [PMID: 24167601 PMCID: PMC3805513 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein and widely used for the treatment of infertility; FSH action is mediated by FSH receptor (FSHR), SNPs of which determine the ovarian response. Two polymorphisms of the FSHR gene were identified, which caused a change of threonine (T) to alanine (A) at position 307 and asparagine (N) to serine(S) at position 680. Both polymorphic sites give rise to three discrete variants of the FSHR: TT, TA, and AA for position 307; NN, NS, and SS for position 680. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS 450 Chinese women were recruited in an assisted reproductive technology program from October 2011 to March 2012. FSHR polymorphisms at the positions 307 and 680 were examined by PCR-RFLP. Serum FSH and estradiol level, FSH amount, ovarian response and pregnancy rate were recorded during treatment. The basal FSH levels were higher in AA [7.38 ± 2.07 vs 6.34 ± 1.75, 6.63 ± 1.94, P<0.05, 95% CI (6.75, 8.01)] and SS [7.51 ± 2.01 vs 6.31 ± 1.75, 6.66 ± 1.96, P<0.05, 95% CI (6.88, 8.15)] compared to other genotypes respectively; the days for ovulation induction was slightly longer in AA and SS. Women with AA and SS have higher rates of poor response compared to carriers of other genotypes (P<0.05). Furthermore, there is a nearly complete linkage between these two polymorphisms in Chinese women (D'=0.95, r(2)=0.84). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE In Chinese women receiving ART, the subjects with AA and SS genotypes have higher basal FSH levels, and these genotypes are associated with an increased risk of poor response. Our data suggested that the personalized FSH therapy may be applied according to patient's genetic background in clinical settings. The linkage suggested that the polymorphisms of Thr307Ala and Asn680Ser may be used as TAG-SNP markers for analysis of potential genotyping in ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Zhicheng Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
- * E-mail:
| | - Lu Zhang
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Xiong Li
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Lunquan Sun
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
148
|
McGee SR, Narayan P. Precocious puberty and Leydig cell hyperplasia in male mice with a gain of function mutation in the LH receptor gene. Endocrinology 2013; 154:3900-13. [PMID: 23861372 PMCID: PMC3776872 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The LH receptor (LHR) is critical for steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Its essential role is underscored by the developmental and reproductive abnormalities that occur due to genetic mutations identified in the human LHR. In males, activating mutations are associated with precocious puberty and Leydig cell hyperplasia. To generate a mouse model for the human disease, we have introduced an aspartic acid to glycine mutation in amino acid residue 582 (D582G) of the mouse LHR gene corresponding to the most common D578G mutation found in boys with familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP). In transfected cells, mouse D582G mLHR exhibited constitutive activity with a 23-fold increase in basal cAMP levels compared with the wild-type receptor. A temporal study of male mice from 7 days to 24 weeks indicated that the knock-in mice with the mutated receptor (KiLHR(D582G)) exhibited precocious puberty with elevated testosterone levels as early as 7 days of age and through adulthood. Leydig cell-specific genes encoding LHR and several steroidogenic enzymes were up-regulated in KiLHR(D582G) testis. Leydig cell hyperplasia was detected at all ages, whereas Sertoli and germ cell development appeared normal. A novel finding from our studies, not previously reported in the FMPP cases, is that extensive hyperplasia is commonly found around the periphery of the testis. We further demonstrate that the hyperplasia is due to premature proliferation and precocious differentiation of adult Leydig cells in the KiLHR(D582G) testis. The KiLHR(D582G) mice provide a mouse model for FMPP, and we suggest that it is a useful model for studying pathologies associated with altered LHR signaling.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Substitution
- Animals
- Cell Proliferation
- Crosses, Genetic
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Knock-In Techniques
- Humans
- Hyperplasia
- Leydig Cells/metabolism
- Leydig Cells/pathology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, 129 Strain
- Mice, Mutant Strains
- Mutagenesis, Site-Directed
- Mutant Proteins/metabolism
- Puberty, Precocious/blood
- Puberty, Precocious/genetics
- Puberty, Precocious/metabolism
- Receptors, LH/genetics
- Receptors, LH/metabolism
- Testicular Diseases/blood
- Testicular Diseases/metabolism
- Testicular Diseases/pathology
- Testosterone/blood
- Up-Regulation
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stacey R McGee
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois 62901.
| | | |
Collapse
|
149
|
Kossack N, Terwort N, Wistuba J, Ehmcke J, Schlatt S, Schöler H, Kliesch S, Gromoll J. A combined approach facilitates the reliable detection of human spermatogonia in vitro. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3012-25. [PMID: 24001715 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a combined approach allow for the unequivocal detection of human germ cells and particularly of spermatogonia in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER Based on our findings, we conclude that an approach comprising: (i) the detailed characterization of patients and tissue samples prior to the selection of biopsies, (ii) the use of unambiguous markers for the characterization of cultures and (iii) the use of biopsies lacking the germ cell population as a negative control is the prerequisite for the establishment of human germ cell cultures. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The use of non-specific marker genes and the failure to assess the presence of testicular somatic cell types in germ cell cultures may have led to a misinterpretation of results and the erroneous description of germ cells in previous studies. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular biopsies were selected from a pool of 264 consecutively obtained biopsies. Based on the histological diagnosis, biopsies with distinct histological phenotypes were selected (n = 35) to analyze the expression of germ cell and somatic cell markers. For germ cell culture experiments, gonadotrophin levels and clinical data were used as selection criteria resulting in the following two groups: (i) biopsies with qualitatively intact spermatogenesis (n = 4) and (ii) biopsies from Klinefelter syndrome Klinefelter patients lacking the germ cell population (n = 3). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Quantitative real-time PCR analyses were performed to evaluate the specificity of 18 selected germ cell and 3 somatic marker genes. Cell specificity of individual markers was subsequently validated using immunohistochemistry. Finally, testicular cell cultures were established and were analyzed after 10 days for the expression of germ cell- (UTF1, FGFR3, MAGE A4, DDX4) and somatic cell-specific markers (SMA, VIM, LHCGR) at the RNA and the protein levels. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Interestingly, only 9 out of 18 marker genes reflected the presence of germ cells and cell specificity could be validated using immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, VIM, SMA and LHCGR were found to reflect the presence of testicular somatic cells at the RNA and the protein levels. Using this validated marker panel and biopsies lacking the germ cell population (n = 3) as a negative control, we demonstrated that germ cell cultures containing spermatogonia can be established from biopsies with normal spermatogenesis (n = 4) and that these cultures can be maintained for the period of 10 days. However, marker profiling has to be performed at regular time points as the composition of testicular cell types may continuously change under longer term culture conditions. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION There are significant differences regarding the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) system and spermatogenesis between rodents and primates. It is therefore possible that marker genes that do not reflect the presence of spermatogonia in the human are specific for spermatogonia in other animal models. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS While some studies have reported that human SSCs can be maintained in vitro and show characteristics of pluripotency, the germ cell origin and the differentiation potential of these cells were subsequently called into question. This study provides critical insights into possible sources for the misinterpretation of results regarding the presence of germ cells in human testicular cell cultures and our findings can therefore help to avoid conflicting reports in the future. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was supported by the Stem Cell Network North Rhine-Westphalia and the Innovative Medical Research of the University of Münster Medical School (Grant KO111014). In addition, it was funded by the DFG-Research Unit FOR 1041 Germ Cell Potential (GR 1547/11-1 and SCHL 394/11-2), the BMBF (01GN0809/10) and the IZKF (CRA 03/09). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Kossack
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 (D11), Münster 48149, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
150
|
Collodel G, Cantara S, Di Cairano G, Moretti E, Taglianetti S, Pacini F. Alterations of the FSH and LH receptor genes and evaluation of sperm ultrastructure in men with idiopathic hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1101-8. [PMID: 23884663 PMCID: PMC3800530 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0055-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Gonadotropins, interacting with their gonadal receptors, play a key role in sexual development, reproductive functions and metabolism. In this study we performed the genetic analysis of FSHR and LHR and semen investigation in 14 infertile men with normal level of T and elevated levels of FSH and/or LH in the absence of other causes of infertility. METHODS Sperm parameters were analysed following WHO (2010) guidelines and sperm morphology by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis mathematically elaborated. FSHR and LHR gene mutations have been searched by PCR technique, followed by DHPLC analysis and direct sequencing. RESULTS In FSHR, we found no difference in the frequency between Ala or Thr at position 307, Ser was at codon 680 in all subjects. Three patients had an heterozygous mutation at codon 419. Three intronic polymorphisms (rs2091787, rs6708637, rs1922464) were significantly found compared to controls; the single allele frequency and the odds ratio were calculated. Two new variants: the Cys338Arg and the Gln123Glu were detected in two different patients. Regarding LHR, three patients were heterozygous for the known variant Glu354Lys and two for Ile374Thr. Intronic polymorphisms were not identified. A new variant, the Val144Ile was found. By the routine semen analysis, variable seminal conditions in this group of patients was observed, on the contrary TEM data mathematically elaborated showed a homogeneous decrease in fertility index and increase in sperm pathologies such as apoptosis and immaturity. CONCLUSIONS The obtained results suggest that a deeper examination of spermatozoa, achieved by the use of more powerful tools such as TEM or molecular analysis, are advisable in patients with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G. Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 14, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - S. Cantara
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - G. Di Cairano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - E. Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 14, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - S. Taglianetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Furio Pacini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|