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Hiraki-Kajiyama T, Miyasaka N, Ando R, Wakisaka N, Itoga H, Onami S, Yoshihara Y. An atlas and database of neuropeptide gene expression in the adult zebrafish forebrain. J Comp Neurol 2024; 532:e25619. [PMID: 38831653 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Zebrafish is a useful model organism in neuroscience; however, its gene expression atlas in the adult brain is not well developed. In the present study, we examined the expression of 38 neuropeptides, comparing with GABAergic and glutamatergic neuron marker genes in the adult zebrafish brain by comprehensive in situ hybridization. The results are summarized as an expression atlas in 19 coronal planes of the forebrain. Furthermore, the scanned data of all brain sections were made publicly available in the Adult Zebrafish Brain Gene Expression Database (https://ssbd.riken.jp/azebex/). Based on these data, we performed detailed comparative neuroanatomical analyses of the hypothalamus and found that several regions previously described as one nucleus in the reference zebrafish brain atlas contain two or more subregions with significantly different neuropeptide/neurotransmitter expression profiles. Subsequently, we compared the expression data in zebrafish telencephalon and hypothalamus obtained in this study with those in mice, by performing a cluster analysis. As a result, several nuclei in zebrafish and mice were clustered in close vicinity. The present expression atlas, database, and anatomical findings will contribute to future neuroscience research using zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Towako Hiraki-Kajiyama
- Laboratory for Systems Molecular Ethology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
- Laboratory of Molecular Ethology, Graduate School of Life Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Miyasaka
- Laboratory for Systems Molecular Ethology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Reiko Ando
- Support Unit for Bio-Material Analysis, Research Resources Division, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Noriko Wakisaka
- Laboratory for Systems Molecular Ethology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroya Itoga
- Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shuichi Onami
- Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- Life Science Data Sharing Unit, RIKEN Information R&D and Strategy Headquarters, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Yoshihara
- Laboratory for Systems Molecular Ethology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
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2
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PILLEROVÁ M, PASTOREK M, BORBÉLYOVÁ V, RILJAK V, FRICK KM, HODOSY J, TÓTHOVÁ Ľ. Sex steroid hormones in depressive disorders as a basis for new potential treatment strategies. Physiol Res 2022; 71:S187-S202. [PMID: 36647907 PMCID: PMC9906660 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The sex steroid hormones (SSHs) such as testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, and their metabolites have important organizational and activational impacts on the brain during critical periods of brain development and in adulthood. A variety of slow and rapid mechanisms mediate both organizational and activational processes via intracellular or membrane receptors for SSHs. Physiological concentrations and distribution of SSHs in the brain result in normal brain development. Nevertheless, dysregulation of hormonal equilibrium may result in several mood disorders, including depressive disorders, later in adolescence or adulthood. Gender differences in cognitive abilities, emotions as well as the 2-3 times higher prevalence of depressive disorders in females, were already described. This implies that SSHs may play a role in the development of depressive disorders. In this review, we discuss preclinical and clinical studies linked to SSHs and development of depressive disorders. Our secondary aim includes a review of up-to-date knowledge about molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. Understanding these molecular mechanisms might lead to significant treatment adjustments for patients with depressive disorders and to an amelioration of clinical outcomes for these patients. Nevertheless, the impact of SSHs on the brain in the context of the development of depressive disorders, progression, and treatment responsiveness is complex in nature, and depends upon several factors in concert such as gender, age, comorbidities, and general health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam PILLEROVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal PASTOREK
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Veronika BORBÉLYOVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Vladimír RILJAK
- Institute of Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karyn M. FRICK
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Július HODOSY
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Ľubomíra TÓTHOVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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3
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Li Y, Yan Z, Li X, Yin X, Li K. UPLC-TOF-MS Method for Simultaneous Quantification of Steroid Hormones in Tissue Homogenates of Zebrafish with Solid-Phase Extraction. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26206213. [PMID: 34684799 PMCID: PMC8539474 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26206213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The quantification of steroid hormones of individual zebrafish (Danio rerio) provides perspective to understand endogenous hormone function. A UPLC–TOF–MS method was developed to provide a reproducible, sensitive, and efficient assay to determine the concentration of steroid hormones, including cortisol, testosterone, androstenedione, 11-deoxycortisol, 11-deoxycorticosterone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone in whole-body homogenates of each zebrafish. Solid-phase extraction was used to sample matrix clean-up and acquired a recovery from 89.7% to 107.9%. The analytes were separated on an Aquity BEH C18 column using gradient elution. Mass spectrometric analysis was performed by single reaction monitoring (SRM) using positive electrospray ionization mode. The total running time was 6 min, which was greatly shortened compared with a previously reported method. The developed method exhibited excellent linearity for all the analytes, with regression coefficients higher than 0.99. The limit of detection varied between 0.1 and 0.5 ng/L and the limit of quantification was 0.5–1.7 ng/L for all analytes. The precision of the method was assessed on replicate measurements and was found to be in the ranges of 1.9 % to 6.6% and 4.3% to 8.6%, for intra- and inter-day analysis, respectively. This method was validated according to FDA guidance and applied to determine steroid hormone levels in the tissue homogenate of zebrafish acutely treated with caffeine and ethanol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxi Li
- Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; (Y.L.); (Z.Y.); (X.L.); (X.Y.)
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhi Yan
- Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; (Y.L.); (Z.Y.); (X.L.); (X.Y.)
- School of Ocean, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; (Y.L.); (Z.Y.); (X.L.); (X.Y.)
| | - Xiuli Yin
- Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; (Y.L.); (Z.Y.); (X.L.); (X.Y.)
| | - Ke Li
- Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; (Y.L.); (Z.Y.); (X.L.); (X.Y.)
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-535-210-8286
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4
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Carver JJ, Carrell SC, Chilton MW, Brown JN, Yong L, Zhu Y, Issa FA. Nuclear androgen and progestin receptors inversely affect aggression and social dominance in male zebrafish (Danio rerio). Horm Behav 2021; 134:105012. [PMID: 34153924 PMCID: PMC8403641 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Aggression is a fundamental behavior displayed universally among animal species, but hyper- or hypo-aggressiveness can be maladaptive with negative consequences for individuals and group members. While the social and ecological significance of aggression is well understood, the specific neurobiological and hormonal mechanisms responsible for mediating aggression have not been fully elucidated. Previous studies have shown a relationship between aggressive acts and circulating gonadal steroids, but whether classical nuclear steroid receptors regulate aggression in animals is still uncertain. We examined whether the nuclear androgen receptor (Ar) and nuclear progestin receptor (Pgr) were necessary for aggressive behaviors and maintenance of a dominance relationship in male zebrafish (Danio rerio). Dyadic social interactions of Ar knockout (ArKO), Pgr knockout (PgrKO) and wildtype (WT) controls were observed for two weeks (2-weeks). ArKO zebrafish were significantly less aggressive and had a less defined dominance relationship, whereas PgrKO dominant zebrafish were significantly and persistently more aggressive with a robust dominance relationship. Our results demonstrate the importance of nuclear steroid hormone receptors in regulating aggression of adult male zebrafish and provide new models for understanding of the mechanisms of aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Carver
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA
| | - Skyler C Carrell
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA
| | - Matthew W Chilton
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA
| | - Julia N Brown
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA
| | - Lengxob Yong
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA.
| | - Fadi A Issa
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27285, USA.
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5
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Faria M, Prats E, Rosas Ramírez JR, Bellot M, Bedrossiantz J, Pagano M, Valls A, Gomez-Canela C, Porta JM, Mestres J, Garcia-Reyero N, Faggio C, Gómez Oliván LM, Raldua D. Androgenic activation, impairment of the monoaminergic system and altered behavior in zebrafish larvae exposed to environmental concentrations of fenitrothion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 775:145671. [PMID: 33621872 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Fenitrothion is an organophosphorus insecticide usually found in aquatic ecosystems at concentrations in the range of low ng/L. In this manuscript we show that 24 h exposure to environmental concentrations of fenitrothion, from ng/L to low μg/L, altered basal locomotor activity, visual-motor response and acoustic/vibrational escape response of zebrafish larvae. Furthermore, fenitrothion and expression of gap43a, gfap, atp2b1a, and mbp exhibited a significant non-monotonic concentration-response relationship. Once determined that environmental concentrations of fenitrothion were neurotoxic for zebrafish larvae, a computational analysis identified potential protein targets of this compound. Some of the predictions, including interactions with acetylcholinesterase, monoamine-oxidases and androgen receptor (AR), were experimentally validated. Binding to AR was the most suitable candidate for molecular initiating event, as indicated by both the up-regulation of cyp19a1b and sult2st3 and the non-monotonic relationship found between fenitrothion and the observed responses. Finally, when the integrity of the monoaminergic system was evaluated, altered levels of L-DOPA, DOPAC, HVA and 5-HIAA were found, as well as a significant up-regulation of slc18a2 expression at the lowest concentrations of fenitrothion. These data strongly suggest that concentrations of fenitrothion commonly found in aquatic ecosystems present a significant environmental risk for fish communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Faria
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona, 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva Prats
- Research and Development Center (CID-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jonathan Ricardo Rosas Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n. Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Marina Bellot
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Applied (Chromatography section), School of Engineering, Institut Químic de Sarrià-Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juliette Bedrossiantz
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona, 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Pagano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres, 31, 98166 Agata-Messina, Italy
| | - Arnau Valls
- Institut de Robòtica i Informàtica Industrial, CSIC-UPC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristian Gomez-Canela
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Applied (Chromatography section), School of Engineering, Institut Químic de Sarrià-Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Porta
- Institut de Robòtica i Informàtica Industrial, CSIC-UPC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Mestres
- Systems Pharmacology, Research Group on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), IMIM Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute and Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica, Chemotargets SL, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Garcia-Reyero
- Environmental Laboratory, US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, USA
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres, 31, 98166 Agata-Messina, Italy
| | - Leobardo Manuel Gómez Oliván
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n. Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Demetrio Raldua
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona, 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
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Nasri A, Mezni A, Lafon PA, Wahbi A, Cubedo N, Clair P, Harrath AH, Beyrem H, Rossel M, Perrier V. Ethinylestradiol (EE2) residues from birth control pills impair nervous system development and swimming behavior of zebrafish larvae. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 770:145272. [PMID: 33497902 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous use of ethinylestradiol (EE2), an active constituent of birth control preparations, results in continuous release of this synthetic estrogen to surface waters. Many studies document the untoward effects of EE2 on the endocrine system of aquatic organisms. Effects of environmental EE2 on the nervous system are still poorly documented. We studied effects of pico- to nanomolar concentrations of EE2 on early nervous system development of zebrafish larvae. EE2 disrupted axonal nerve regeneration and hair cell regeneration up to 50%. Gene expression in larval brain tissues showed significantly upregulated expression of target genes, such as estrogen and progesterone receptors, and aromatase B. In contrast, downregulation of the tyrosine hydroxylase, involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, occurred concomitant with diminution of proliferating cells. Overall, the size of exposed fish larvae decreased by 25% and their swimming behavior was modified compared to non-treated larvae. EE2 interferes with nervous system development, both centrally and peripherally, with negative effects on regeneration and swimming behavior. Survival of fish and other aquatic species may be at risk in chronically EE2-contaminated environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nasri
- Laboratory of Environment Biomonitoring, Unit of coastal Ecology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021, Zarzouna, Tunisia; U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France.
| | - Ali Mezni
- Laboratory of Environment Biomonitoring, Unit of coastal Ecology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021, Zarzouna, Tunisia
| | - Pierre-André Lafon
- U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Aymen Wahbi
- Laboratory of Hetero-Organic Compounds and Nanostructured Materials (LR18ES11), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021, Zarzouna, Tunisia
| | - Nicolas Cubedo
- U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Clair
- U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- King Saud University, Zoology Department, College of Science, Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamouda Beyrem
- Laboratory of Environment Biomonitoring, Unit of coastal Ecology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021, Zarzouna, Tunisia
| | - Mireille Rossel
- U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Véronique Perrier
- U1198 MMDN (Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), MGX (Montpellier GenomiX), BioCampus, University of Montpellier, 34095, Montpellier, France
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7
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Ogawa S, Pfaff DW, Parhar IS. Fish as a model in social neuroscience: conservation and diversity in the social brain network. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:999-1020. [PMID: 33559323 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mechanisms for fish social behaviours involve a social brain network (SBN) which is evolutionarily conserved among vertebrates. However, considerable diversity is observed in the actual behaviour patterns amongst nearly 30000 fish species. The huge variation found in socio-sexual behaviours and strategies is likely generated by a morphologically and genetically well-conserved small forebrain system. Hence, teleost fish provide a useful model to study the fundamental mechanisms underlying social brain functions. Herein we review the foundations underlying fish social behaviours including sensory, hormonal, molecular and neuroanatomical features. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons clearly play important roles, but the participation of vasotocin and isotocin is also highlighted. Genetic investigations of developing fish brain have revealed the molecular complexity of neural development of the SBN. In addition to straightforward social behaviours such as sex and aggression, new experiments have revealed higher order and unique phenomena such as social eavesdropping and social buffering in fish. Finally, observations interpreted as 'collective cognition' in fish can likely be explained by careful observation of sensory determinants and analyses using the dynamics of quantitative scaling. Understanding of the functions of the SBN in fish provide clues for understanding the origin and evolution of higher social functions in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ogawa
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Donald W Pfaff
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, 10065, U.S.A
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia
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Luo Y, Chen H, Li D, Zhan M, Hou L, Dong W, Luo Y, Xie L. The effects of norethindrone on the ontogeny of gene expression along the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axes in zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 747:141554. [PMID: 32795812 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the molecular effects of progestins on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes in fish prior to sexual differentiation. In this study, the effects of norethindrone (NET) on the ontogeny of HPG- and HPA-related genes in zebrafish embryo/early larvae prior to sexual differentiation were evaluated. Embryo/larvae were exposed to different concentrations (5, 50, 500 ng/L) of NET for 6 days. The levels of the transcripts of the genes closely related to the HPG and HPA axes were determined daily during 3 stages (embryo, embryo/larvae transition, and early larvae). The results showed that most genes were up-regulated and the ontogeny of genes in the HPA axis was earlier than that of HPG axis, especially for the upstream genes of both the HPG (gnrh2, gnrh3, fshb, lhb) and the HPA (crh, pomc, star) axes. In contrast, the transcriptional expressions of genes of the cortisol/stress pathway (cyp11b, mr) were inhibited and those of the progesterone pathway were not affected. More importantly, NET exposure induced the expressions of the genes (esr1, vtg1, hsd17b3, hsd11b2, ar) that are closely related to the steroid hormone pathways in the embryos/larvae stages, implying a precocious effects of NET in zebrafish. This study demonstrates that NET alters the expression of HPA- and HPG-axes related genes in zebrafish at early stages, pointing to the need for the same type of analysis during the zebrafish gonadal differentiation window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Luo
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hongxing Chen
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Dan Li
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Manjun Zhan
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Liping Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Wu Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University for Nationalities/Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Toxicant Monitoring and toxicology, Tongliao 028043, China
| | - Yongju Luo
- Guangxi Academy of Fishery Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Lingtian Xie
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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9
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Fontaine R, Royan MR, von Krogh K, Weltzien FA, Baker DM. Direct and Indirect Effects of Sex Steroids on Gonadotrope Cell Plasticity in the Teleost Fish Pituitary. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:605068. [PMID: 33365013 PMCID: PMC7750530 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.605068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The pituitary gland controls many important physiological processes in vertebrates, including growth, homeostasis, and reproduction. As in mammals, the teleost pituitary exhibits a high degree of plasticity. This plasticity permits changes in hormone production and secretion necessary to meet the fluctuating demands over the life of an animal. Pituitary plasticity is achieved at both cellular and population levels. At the cellular level, hormone synthesis and release can be regulated via changes in cell composition to modulate both sensitivity and response to different signals. At the cell population level, the number of cells producing a given hormone can change due to proliferation, differentiation of progenitor cells, or transdifferentiation of specific cell types. Gonadotropes, which play an important role in the control of reproduction, have been intensively investigated during the last decades and found to display plasticity. To ensure appropriate endocrine function, gonadotropes rely on external and internal signals integrated at the brain level or by the gonadotropes themselves. One important group of internal signals is the sex steroids, produced mainly by the gonadal steroidogenic cells. Sex steroids have been shown to exert complex effects on the teleost pituitary, with differential effects depending on the species investigated, physiological status or sex of the animal, and dose or method of administration. This review summarizes current knowledge of the effects of sex steroids (androgens and estrogens) on gonadotrope cell plasticity in teleost anterior pituitary, discriminating direct from indirect effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Fontaine
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Muhammad Rahmad Royan
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristine von Krogh
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Finn-Arne Weltzien
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dianne M. Baker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, United States
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10
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Schmid S, Willi RA, Fent K. Effects of environmental steroid mixtures are regulated by individual steroid receptor signaling. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 226:105562. [PMID: 32668346 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2020.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Fish are exposed to steroids of different classes in contaminated waters, but their effects are not sufficiently understood. Here we employed an anti-sense technique using morpholino oligonucleotides to knockdown the glucocorticoid receptors (GRs, GRα and GRβ) and androgen receptor (AR) to investigate their role in physiological and transcriptional responses. To this end, zebrafish embryos were exposed to clobetasol propionate (CLO), androstenedione (A4) and mixtures containing different classes of steroids. CLO caused a decrease of spontaneous muscle contraction and increase of heart rate, as well as transcriptional induction of pepck1, fkbp5, sult2st3 and vitellogenin (vtg1) at 24 and/or 48 h post fertilization (hpf). Knockdown of GRs eliminated these effects, while knockdown of AR decreased the ar transcript but caused no expressional changes, except induction of sult2st3 after exposure to A4 at 24 hpf. Exposure to a mixture of 6 steroids comprising progesterone (P4) and three progestins, cyproterone acetate, dienogest, drospirenone, 17β-estradiol (E2) and CLO caused a significant induction of pepck1, sult2st3, vtg1 and per1a. Knockdown of GRs eliminated the physiological effects and the up-regulation of vtg1, sult2st3, pepck1, fkbp5 and per1a. Thus, as with CLO, responses in mixtures were regulated by GRs independently from the presence of other steroids. Exposure to a mixture comprising A4, CLO, E2 and P4 caused induction of vtg1, cyp19b, sult2st3 and fkbp5. Knockdown of AR had no effect, indicating that regulation of these genes occurred by the GRs and estrogen receptor (ER). Our findings show that in early embryos GRs cause vtg1 and sult2st3 induction in addition to known glucocorticoid target genes. Each steroid receptor regulated its own target genes in steroid mixtures independently from other steroids. However, enhanced expressional induction occurred for vtg1 and fkbp5 in steroid mixtures, indicating an interaction/cross-talk between GRs and ER. These findings have importance for the understanding of molecular effects of steroid mixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Schmid
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Raffael Alois Willi
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Karl Fent
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132 Muttenz, Switzerland; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollution Dynamics, Department of Environmental Systems Science, CH-8092 Zürich, Switzerland.
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11
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Targeted mutation of secretogranin-2 disrupts sexual behavior and reproduction in zebrafish. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:12772-12783. [PMID: 32467166 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2002004117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The luteinizing hormone surge is essential for fertility as it triggers ovulation in females and sperm release in males. We previously reported that secretoneurin-a, a neuropeptide derived from the processing of secretogranin-2a (Scg2a), stimulates luteinizing hormone release, suggesting a role in reproduction. Here we provide evidence that mutation of the scg2a and scg2b genes using TALENs in zebrafish reduces sexual behavior, ovulation, oviposition, and fertility. Large-scale spawning within-line crossings (n = 82 to 101) were conducted. Wild-type (WT) males paired with WT females successfully spawned in 62% of the breeding trials. Spawning success was reduced to 37% (P = 0.006), 44% (P = 0.0169), and 6% (P < 0.0001) for scg2a -/- , scg2b -/- , and scg2a -/- ;scg2b -/- mutants, respectively. Comprehensive video analysis indicates that scg2a -/- ;scg2b -/- mutation reduces all male courtship behaviors. Spawning success was 47% in saline-injected WT controls compared to 11% in saline-injected scg2a -/- ;scg2b -/- double mutants. For these mutants, spawning success increased 3-fold following a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of synthetic secretoneurin-a (P = 0.0403) and increased 3.5-fold with injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Embryonic survival at 24 h remained on average lower in scg2a -/- ;scg2b -/- fish compared to WT injected with secretoneurin-a (P < 0.001). Significant reductions in the expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone 3 in the hypothalamus, and luteinizing hormone beta and glycoprotein alpha subunits in the pituitary provide evidence for disrupted hypothalamo-pituitary function in scg2a and scg2b mutant fish. Our results indicate that secretogranin-2 is required for optimal reproductive function and support the hypothesis that secretoneurin is a reproductive hormone.
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12
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Zhang Q, Yu C, Fu L, Gu S, Wang C. New Insights in the Endocrine Disrupting Effects of Three Primary Metabolites of Organophosphate Flame Retardants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:4465-4474. [PMID: 32150676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b07874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite the ubiquity of organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) metabolites in the biota, the endocrine disrupting potency has not been well examined. Herein, we chose three primary metabolites of OPFRs (BCIPP, BDCIPP, and DPHP) to investigate their potential endocrine disrupting effects by in vitro, in vivo, and in silico assays. Three metabolites were agonistic to rat estrogenic receptor alpha (ERα) and antagonists to human mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). BCIPP exerted endocrine disrupting effect contrasting to the negative response of its parental compound. It also poses the strongest binding capacity to ERα among the tested compounds. Both BCIPP and BDCIPP upregulated the genes encoded for estrogenic synthesis enzymes in H295R cells, including 17βHSD and CYP19. All three compounds stimulated the transcription of CYP11B1, whereas BCIPP and DPHP also triggered CYP11B2, encoding for corticoid production. BDCIPP inhibits genes for progesterone synthesis including CYP11A1, STAR, and 3-βHSD. The induction of mortality and low hatchability of zebrafish embryo were ranked as BCIPP ≥ BDCIPP > DPHP. All compounds lead to malformation of zebrafish larvae. Both of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axes were disrupted, with the highest impact by BCIPP. Altogether, the data clarified OPFRs metabolites may produce comparable or even higher endocrine disrupting effects than OPFRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China
| | - Chang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China
| | - Lili Fu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China
| | - Sijia Gu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China
| | - Cui Wang
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
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Zhang C, Li D, Ge T, Han J, Qi Y, Huang D. 2,4-Dichlorophenol induces feminization of zebrafish (Danio rerio) via DNA methylation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 708:135084. [PMID: 31780173 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
2,4-Dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) is a ubiquitous contaminant of aquatic environments with an estrogenic effect on fish. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this effect remains elusive. To this end, the present study aimed to explore the effect of 2,4-DCP on sex differentiation and its relevant mechanism in zebrafish (Danio rerio). The results showed that a female-biased sex ratio was induced after exposing larval zebrafish to 2,4-DCP (0-160 μg/L) from 20 to 50 days post fertilization (dpf). The feminization of zebrafish was accompanied by decreased expression of male-related genes (sox9a, amh and dmrt1) under 2,4-DCP from 20 to 50 dpf. However, the expression of female-related genes (cyp19a1a, foxl2 and esr1) was also suppressed. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the methylation level of sox9a promoter was significantly increased, which may result in the significantly decreased expression of sox9a and ultimately the feminization effect of 2,4-DCP on zebrafish. In addition, 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-AZA), a methyltransferase inhibitor, significantly reduced the methylation level, increased the expression of sox9a, and partly impaired the feminization effect caused by 2,4-DCP, which further confirmed the importance of DNA methylation of sox9a in 2,4-DCP-induced feminization. These findings provide novel insights into the epigenetic mechanisms of DCP-induced estrogenic effect in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Dong Li
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tingting Ge
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jiangyuan Han
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yongmei Qi
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Dejun Huang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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14
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Ogawa S, Ramadasan PN, Anthonysamy R, Parhar IS. Sexual Dimorphic Distribution of Hypothalamic Tachykinin1 Cells and Their Innervations to GnRH Neurons in the Zebrafish. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:534343. [PMID: 33763023 PMCID: PMC7982876 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.534343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Substance P (SP) and neurokinin A (NKA), encoded by TAC1/Tac1 gene are members of the tachykinin family, which exert their neuromodulatory roles in vertebrate reproduction. In mammals, SP and NKA have been shown to regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion via kisspeptin neurons. On the other hand, the role of SP/NKA in the regulation of reproduction in non-mammalian vertebrates is not well known. In the present study, we first localized expression of tac1 mRNA in the brain of male and female zebrafish, Danio rerio. Next, using an antibody against zebrafish tachykinin1 (Tac1), we examined the neural association of SP/NKA neural processes with GnRH3 neurons, and with kisspeptin (kiss2) neurons, in the brains of male and female zebrafish. In situ hybridization showed an apparent male-dominant tac1 expression in the ventral telencephalic area, the anterior and posterior parts of the parvocellular preoptic nucleus, and the suprachiasmatic nucleus. On the other hand, there was female-dominant tac1 expression in the ventral periventricular hypothalamus. Confocal images of double-labeled zebrafish Tac1 and GnRH3 showed associations between Tac1-immunoreactive processes and GnRH3 neurons in the ventral telencephalic area. In contrast, there was no apparent proximity of Tac1 processes to kiss2 mRNA-expressing neurons in the hypothalamus. Lastly, to elucidate possible direct action of SP/NKA on GnRH3 or Kiss2 neurons, expression of SP/NKA receptor, tacr1a mRNA was examined in regions containing GnRH3 or Kiss2 neurons by in situ hybridization. Expression of tacr1a mRNA was seen in several brain regions including the olfactory bulb, preoptic area and hypothalamus, where GnRH3 and Kiss2 cells are present. These results suggest that unlike in mammals, Tac1 may be involved in male reproductive functions via direct action on GnRH3 neurons but independent of kisspeptin in the zebrafish.
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15
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Singh RR, Rajnarayanan R, Aga DS. Binding of iodinated contrast media (ICM) and their transformation products with hormone receptors: Are ICM the new EDCs? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 692:32-36. [PMID: 31336298 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.07.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Iodinated contrast media (ICM) have been detected at high concentrations (as high as about 3 μg/L) in surface water systems, and recently in fish brains and gonad. The mismatch between the polarity of ICM and the high lipid content of brain raises questions on whether their bioaccumulation is receptor-mediated. Furthermore, the structural similarity of ICM to the natural thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine suggest potential binding of ICM to nuclear receptors in the endocrine system. Therefore, an in silico approach based on Surflex-Dock module of SYBYL was used to investigate the molecular docking of selected ICM (diatrizoic acid, iohexol, iopamidol, and iopromide). These ICM showed interaction with nuclear receptors that play key roles in endocrine regulation, including the androgen and estrogen receptors. Furthermore, the results indicate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARg) as one of the viable targets in the endocrine disrupting potential of ICM with higher Cscores for the ICM and iopromide transformation products than the reference ligand for the receptor. The data obtained from in silico calculations showed stronger binding of iohexol to the transthyretin-binding pocket compared to the natural hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, suggesting the potential of ICM to act as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randolph R Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, United States
| | - Rajendram Rajnarayanan
- Department of Basic Sciences, New York Institute of Technology, Jonesboro, AR 72467, United States
| | - Diana S Aga
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, United States.
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16
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Golshan M, Alavi SMH. Androgen signaling in male fishes: Examples of anti-androgenic chemicals that cause reproductive disorders. Theriogenology 2019; 139:58-71. [PMID: 31369937 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Similar to other vertebrates, androgens regulate spermatogenesis in fishes. In teleosts, the main androgen is 11-Ketotestosterone (11-KT), which is oxidized testosterone (T) at the C11 position. Compared to T, 11-KT is a nonaromatizable steroid, and does not convert to 17β-estradiol. However, circulatory levels of both T and 11-KT undergo seasonal variations along with testicular development. Physiological functions of androgens are mediated via androgen receptor (Ar). So far, nuclear Ar and membrane Ar have been identified in fishes. In the present study, we reviewed androgen biosynthesis in fishes, compared molecular structure of nuclear Ar in models of mammals and fishes, and investigated the mechanisms of action of environmental contaminants that differentially disrupt androgen signaling in fish reproduction. In the latter case, the adverse effects of vinclozolin (VZ) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are compared. Both VZ and DEHP are capable of decreasing sperm quality in males. Vinclozolin causes an increase in 11-KT production associated with increases in kisspeptin (kiss-1) and salmon gonadotropin-releasing hormone (gnrh3) mRNA levels as well as circulatory levels of luteinizing hormone (Lh). In contrast, DEHP inhibits 11-KT production associated with a decrease in circulatory Lh levels. However, DEHP-inhibited 11-KT production is not associated with changes in kiss-1 and gnrh3 mRNA levels. Studies also show that VZ alters ar mRNA levels, while DEHP is without effect. These suggest that VZ and DEHP act differentially to cause androgen-dependent reproductive disorder in male fishes. Molecular analyses of the nuclear AR show that both DNA and ligand binding domains (DBD and LBD, respectively) are highly conserved within models of mammals and fishes. A phylogeny tree of the AR shows distinct clusters between mammals and fishes. In fishes, subtypes of Arα and Arβ are also separated in distinct clusters. Thus, further studies need to generate ar knockout fish model to better elucidate androgen regulation of reproduction in fishes via Ar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Golshan
- Iranian Fisheries Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, P. O. Box: 133-15745, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Genario R, de Abreu MS, Giacomini ACVV, Demin KA, Kalueff AV. Sex differences in behavior and neuropharmacology of zebrafish. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 52:2586-2603. [PMID: 31090957 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sex is an important variable in biomedical research. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is increasingly utilized as a powerful new model organism in translational neuroscience and pharmacology. Mounting evidence indicates important sex differences in zebrafish behavioral and neuropharmacological responses. Here, we discuss the role of sex in zebrafish central nervous system (CNS) models, their molecular mechanisms, recent findings and the existing challenges in this field. We also emphasize the growing utility of zebrafish models in translational neuropharmacological research of sex differences, fostering future CNS drug discovery and the search for novel sex-specific therapies. Finally, we highlight the interplay between sex and environment in zebrafish models of sex-environment correlations as an important strategy of CNS disease modeling using this aquatic organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Genario
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Murilo S de Abreu
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.,The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, Louisiana
| | - Ana C V V Giacomini
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Environmental Sciences, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, Brazil
| | - Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Center, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
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18
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Alward BA, Hilliard AT, York RA, Fernald RD. Hormonal regulation of social ascent and temporal patterns of behavior in an African cichlid. Horm Behav 2019; 107:83-95. [PMID: 30578818 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
For many species, social rank determines which individuals perform certain social behaviors and when. Higher ranking or dominant (DOM) individuals maintain status through aggressive interactions and perform courtship behaviors while non-dominant (ND) individuals do not. In some species ND individuals ascend (ASC) in social rank when the opportunity arises. Many important questions related to the mechanistic basis of social ascent remain to be answered. We probed whether androgen signaling regulates social ascent in male Astatotilapia burtoni, an African cichlid whose social hierarchy can be readily controlled in the laboratory. As expected, androgen receptor (AR) antagonism abolished reproductive behavior during social ascent. However, we discovered multiple AR- and status-dependent temporal behavioral patterns that typify social ascent and dominance. AR antagonism in ASC males increased the time between successive behaviors compared to DOM males. Socially ascending males, independent of AR activation, were more likely than DOM males to follow aggressive displays with another aggressive display. Further analyses revealed differences in the sequencing of aggressive and courtship behaviors, wherein DOM males were more likely than ASC males to follow male-directed aggression with courtship displays. Strikingly, this difference was driven mostly by ASC males taking longer to transition from aggression to courtship, suggesting ASC males can perform certain DOM-typical temporal behavioral patterns. Our results indicate androgen signaling is necessary for social ascent and hormonal signaling and social experience may shape the full suite of DOM-typical behavioral patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beau A Alward
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Austin T Hilliard
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Ryan A York
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Russell D Fernald
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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19
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Mullapudi ST, Helker CS, Boezio GL, Maischein HM, Sokol AM, Guenther S, Matsuda H, Kubicek S, Graumann J, Yang YHC, Stainier DY. Screening for insulin-independent pathways that modulate glucose homeostasis identifies androgen receptor antagonists. eLife 2018; 7:42209. [PMID: 30520733 PMCID: PMC6300353 DOI: 10.7554/elife.42209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathways modulating glucose homeostasis independently of insulin would open new avenues to combat insulin resistance and diabetes. Here, we report the establishment, characterization, and use of a vertebrate ‘insulin-free’ model to identify insulin-independent modulators of glucose metabolism. insulin knockout zebrafish recapitulate core characteristics of diabetes and survive only up to larval stages. Utilizing a highly efficient endoderm transplant technique, we generated viable chimeric adults that provide the large numbers of insulin mutant larvae required for our screening platform. Using glucose as a disease-relevant readout, we screened 2233 molecules and identified three that consistently reduced glucose levels in insulin mutants. Most significantly, we uncovered an insulin-independent beneficial role for androgen receptor antagonism in hyperglycemia, mostly by reducing fasting glucose levels. Our study proposes therapeutic roles for androgen signaling in diabetes and, more broadly, offers a novel in vivo model for rapid screening and decoupling of insulin-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Diabetes is a disease that affects the ability of the body to control the level of sugar in the blood. Individuals with diabetes are unable to make a hormone called insulin – which normally stimulates certain cells to absorb sugar from the blood – or their cells are less able to respond to this hormone. Most treatments for diabetes involve replacing the lost insulin or boosting the hormone’s activity in the body. However, these treatments can also cause individuals to gain weight or become more resistant to insulin, making it harder to control blood sugar levels. In addition to insulin, several other factors regulate the levels of sugar in the blood and some of them may operate independently of insulin. However, little is known about such factors because it is impractical to carry out large-scale screens to identify drugs that target them in humans or mice, which are often used as experimental models for human biology. To overcome this challenge, Mullapudi et al. turned to another animal known as the zebrafish and generated mutant fish that lack insulin. The mutant zebrafish had similar problems with regulating sugar levels as those observed in humans and mice with diabetes. This observation suggests that insulin is just as important in zebrafish as it is in humans and other mammals. The mutant zebrafish did not survive into adulthood, and so Mullapudi et al. transplanted healthy tissue into the zebrafish to allow them to produce enough insulin to survive. These adult zebrafish produced many offspring that still carried the insulin mutation. Mullapudi et al. used these mutant offspring to screen over 2,000 drugs for their ability to decrease blood sugar levels in the absence of insulin. The screen identified three promising candidate drugs, including a molecule that interferes with a receptor for a signal known as androgen. These findings will help researchers investigate new ways to treat diabetes. In the future, the screening approach developed by Mullapudi et al. could be adapted to search for new drugs to treat other human metabolic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Teja Mullapudi
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Christian Sm Helker
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Giulia Lm Boezio
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Hans-Martin Maischein
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Anna M Sokol
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Stefan Guenther
- ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Hiroki Matsuda
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Stefan Kubicek
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Graumann
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yu Hsuan Carol Yang
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Didier Yr Stainier
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
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20
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Dehnert GK, Freitas MB, DeQuattro ZA, Barry T, Karasov WH. Effects of low, subchronic exposure of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and commercial 2,4-D formulations on early life stages of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2018; 37:2550-2559. [PMID: 29920774 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic herbicides are commonly used to control a wide variety of algae and plants, but they also have the potential to contaminate and affect nontarget organisms. However, the impacts of low-level 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) herbicide exposure on larval fish are not well understood. We conducted a series of experiments to determine the effects of low concentrations (0.05, 0.50, and 2.00 ppm) of 2 commercial 2,4-D amine salt herbicide formulations (Weedestroy® AM40 [WAM40] and DMA® 4 IVM [DMA4]) and pure 2,4-D on the development and survival of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) at various life cycle stages. Larval survival (30 d post hatch [dph]) was decreased following exposure of eggs and larvae to pure 2,4-D (0.50 ppm; p ≤ 0.001), as well as to WAM40 (0.50 and 2.00 ppm; p ≤ 0.001, p ≤ 0.001) and DMA4 (0.50 and 2.00 ppm; p ≤ 0.001, p ≤ 0.001). The results also narrowed the critical window of exposure for effects on survival to the period between fertilization and 14 dph. Development was not negatively altered by any of the compounds tested, although the commercial formulations increased larval total length and mass at 2.00 ppm. Altogether, the results indicate that the use of 2,4-D herbicides for weed control in aquatic ecosystems at current recommended concentrations (<2 ppm whole lake; <4 ppm spot treatment) could present risks to fathead minnow larval survival. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2550-2559. © 2018 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin K Dehnert
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mariella B Freitas
- Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Zachary A DeQuattro
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Terence Barry
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - William H Karasov
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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21
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Hou LP, Chen H, Tian CE, Shi WJ, Liang Y, Wu RR, Fang XW, Zhang CP, Liang YQ, Xie L. The progestin norethindrone affects sex differentiation and alters transcriptional profiles of genes along the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axes in juvenile zebrafish Dario renio. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 201:31-39. [PMID: 29859405 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Natural and synthetic progestins may pose a threat to wild fish populations living in receiving waters. In this study, the effects of norethindrone (NET) on the sex differentiation of zebrafish (Dario renio) and the mechanisms underlying these effects were investigated. Juvenile zebrafish (20 days post fertilization, pdf) were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations (5, 50, 500, and 1000 ng L-1) for 45 d. Sex ratio of the NET-exposed populations, the histology of the gonads and the transcriptional profile of the regulatory genes involved in sex differentiation and steroidogenesis were examined. The results showed that a significantly higher ratio of male/female was induced in the zebrafish populations exposed to NET at concentrations higher than 32.3 ng L-1. Exposure to NET caused acceleration of sexual mature in males and a delay in ovary maturation in female zebrafish. Among the genes regulating sexual differentiation, transcripts of Dmrt1 showed a dose-dependent increase while transcripts of Figa and Fox12 showed a dose-dependent decrease in response to exposure to NET. For genes regulating the steroidogenesis, the expressions of Cyp11a1, Cyp17, Cyp19a1a, and Cyp11b were significantly down-regulated by exposure to NET, while Hsd17b3 expression was significantly up-regulated by exposure to NET at 421.3 and 892.9 ng L-1. For the receptor genes in the gonads, the transcriptional expression of Pgr, Ar, and Mr was significantly up-regulated at 421.3 and 892.9 ng L-1 of NET. For genes involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, the transcriptional expression of Gnrh3 and Pomc was significantly up-regulated by exposure to NET with the exception for Gnrh3 at 4.2 ng L-1. The results demonstrated that exposure to NET at the juvenile stage could affect gonad differentiation and sex ratio, which might be accounted for by the alterations of the transcriptional expressions of genes along the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ping Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hongxing Chen
- The Environmental Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Chang-En Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Wen-Jun Shi
- The Environmental Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ye Liang
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Rong-Rong Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xu-Wen Fang
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Cui-Ping Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yan-Qiu Liang
- Faculty of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean Universtiy, Zhangjiang, 524088, China
| | - Lingtian Xie
- The Environmental Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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22
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Smith LC, Lavelle CM, Silva-Sanchez C, Denslow ND, Sabo-Attwood T. Early phosphoproteomic changes for adverse outcome pathway development in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) brain. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10212. [PMID: 29977039 PMCID: PMC6033950 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28395-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) are conceptual frameworks that organize and link contaminant-induced mechanistic molecular changes to adverse biological responses at the individual and population level. AOPs leverage molecular and high content mechanistic information for regulatory decision-making, but most current AOPs for hormonally active agents (HAAs) focus on nuclear receptor-mediated effects only despite the overwhelming evidence that HAAs also activate membrane receptors. Activation of membrane receptors triggers non-genomic signaling cascades often transduced by protein phosphorylation leading to phenotypic changes. We utilized label-free LC-MS/MS to identify proteins differentially phosphorylated in the brain of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) aqueously exposed for 30 minutes to two HAAs, 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), a strong estrogenic substance, and levonorgestrel (LNG), a progestin, both components of the birth control pill. EE2 promoted differential phosphorylation of proteins involved in neuronal processes such as nervous system development, synaptic transmission, and neuroprotection, while LNG induced differential phosphorylation of proteins involved in axon cargo transport and calcium ion homeostasis. EE2 and LNG caused similar enrichment of synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. This study is the first to identify molecular changes in vivo in fish after short-term exposure and highlights transduction of rapid signaling mechanisms as targets of HAAs, in addition to nuclear receptor-mediated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Smith
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, 1333 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL, 32603, USA.,Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - C M Lavelle
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, 1225 Center Dr., Rm 4160, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.,Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - C Silva-Sanchez
- Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32601, USA
| | - N D Denslow
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, 1333 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL, 32603, USA. .,Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - T Sabo-Attwood
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, 1225 Center Dr., Rm 4160, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA. .,Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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23
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Omrani MR, Yaqubi M, Mohammadnia A. Transcription Factors in Regulatory and Protein Subnetworks during Generation of Neural Stem Cells and Neurons from Direct Reprogramming of Non-fibroblastic Cell Sources. Neuroscience 2018; 380:63-77. [PMID: 29653196 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Direct reprogramming of non-fibroblastic cells to the neuronal cell types including induced neurons (iNs) and induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) has provided an alternative approach for the direct reprogramming of fibroblasts to those cells. However, to increase the efficiency of the reprogramming process the underlying mechanisms should be clarified. In the current study, we analyzed the gene expression profiles of five different cellular conversions to understand the most significant molecular mechanisms and transcription factors (TFs) underlying each conversion. For each conversion, we found the list of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the list of differentially expressed TFs (DE-TFs) which regulate expression of DEGs. Moreover, we constructed gene regulatory networks based on the TF-binding sites' data and found the most central regulators and the most active part of the networks. Furthermore, protein complexes were identified from constructed protein-protein interaction networks for DE-TFs. Finally, we proposed a list of main regulators for each conversion; for example, in the direct conversion of epithelial-like cells (ECs) to iNSCs, combination of centrality with active modules or protein complex analyses highlighted the role of POU3F2, BACH1, AR, PBX1, SOX2 and NANOG genes in this conversion. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first one that analyzed the direct conversion of non-fibroblastic cells toward iNs and iNSCs and we believe that the expression manipulation of identified genes may increase efficiency of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Omrani
- National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Yaqubi
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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24
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Haggard DE, Noyes PD, Waters KM, Tanguay RL. Transcriptomic and phenotypic profiling in developing zebrafish exposed to thyroid hormone receptor agonists. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 77:80-93. [PMID: 29458080 PMCID: PMC5878140 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There continues to be a need to develop in vivo high-throughput screening (HTS) and computational methods to screen chemicals for interaction with the estrogen, androgen, and thyroid pathways and as complements to in vitro HTS assays. This study explored the utility of an embryonic zebrafish HTS approach to identify and classify endocrine bioactivity using phenotypically-anchored transcriptome profiling. Transcriptome analysis was conducted on zebrafish embryos exposed to 25 estrogen-, androgen-, or thyroid-active chemicals at concentrations that elicited adverse malformations or mortality at 120 h post-fertilization in 80% of animals exposed. Analysis of the top 1000 significant differentially expressed transcripts and developmental toxicity profiles across all treatments identified a unique transcriptional and phenotypic signature for thyroid hormone receptor agonists. This unique signature has the potential to be used as a tiered in vivo HTS and may aid in identifying chemicals that interact with the thyroid hormone receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derik E Haggard
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Pamela D Noyes
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States; Current: National Center for Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Katrina M Waters
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Robert L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States.
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25
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Diotel N, Charlier TD, Lefebvre d'Hellencourt C, Couret D, Trudeau VL, Nicolau JC, Meilhac O, Kah O, Pellegrini E. Steroid Transport, Local Synthesis, and Signaling within the Brain: Roles in Neurogenesis, Neuroprotection, and Sexual Behaviors. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:84. [PMID: 29515356 PMCID: PMC5826223 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are synthesized from cholesterol and exert pleiotropic effects notably in the central nervous system. Pioneering studies from Baulieu and colleagues have suggested that steroids are also locally-synthesized in the brain. Such steroids, called neurosteroids, can rapidly modulate neuronal excitability and functions, brain plasticity, and behavior. Accumulating data obtained on a wide variety of species demonstrate that neurosteroidogenesis is an evolutionary conserved feature across fish, birds, and mammals. In this review, we will first document neurosteroidogenesis and steroid signaling for estrogens, progestagens, and androgens in the brain of teleost fish, birds, and mammals. We will next consider the effects of sex steroids in homeostatic and regenerative neurogenesis, in neuroprotection, and in sexual behaviors. In a last part, we will discuss the transport of steroids and lipoproteins from the periphery within the brain (and vice-versa) and document their effects on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and on neuroprotection. We will emphasize the potential interaction between lipoproteins and sex steroids, addressing the beneficial effects of steroids and lipoproteins, particularly HDL-cholesterol, against the breakdown of the BBB reported to occur during brain ischemic stroke. We will consequently highlight the potential anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective properties of sex steroid and lipoproteins, these latest improving cholesterol and steroid ester transport within the brain after insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Diotel
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - Thierry D. Charlier
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Christian Lefebvre d'Hellencourt
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - David Couret
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | | | - Joel C. Nicolau
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
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26
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Zebrafish androgen receptor is required for spermatogenesis and maintenance of ovarian function. Oncotarget 2018; 9:24320-24334. [PMID: 29849943 PMCID: PMC5966271 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a nuclear receptor protein family member and inducible transcription factor that modulates androgen target gene expression. Studies using a mouse model confirmed the need for ar in reproductive development, particularly spermatogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of ar in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9 gene targeting technology. Targeted disruption of ar in zebrafish increases the number of female offspring and increases offspring weight. In addition, ar-null male zebrafish have female secondary sex characteristics. More importantly, targeted disruption of ar in zebrafish causes male infertility via defective spermatogenesis and female premature ovarian failure during growth. Mechanistic assays suggest that these effects are caused by fewer proliferated cells and more apoptotic cells in ar-null testes. Moreover, genes involved in reproductive development, estradiol induction and hormone synthesis were dys-regulated in testes and ovaries and the reproductive-endocrine axis was disordered. Our data thus suggest that the zebrafish ar is required for spermatogenesis and maintenance of ovarian function, which confirms evolutionarily conserved functions of ar in vertebrates, as well as indicates that ar-null zebrafish are a suitable model for studying pathologic mechanisms related to androgen disorders.
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27
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Crowder CM, Lassiter CS, Gorelick DA. Nuclear Androgen Receptor Regulates Testes Organization and Oocyte Maturation in Zebrafish. Endocrinology 2018; 159:980-993. [PMID: 29272351 PMCID: PMC5788001 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Androgens act through the nuclear androgen receptor (AR) to regulate gonad differentiation and development. In mice, AR is necessary for spermatogenesis, testis development, and formation of external genitalia in males and oocyte maturation in females. However, the extent to which these phenotypes are conserved in nonmammalian vertebrates is not well understood. Here, we generate zebrafish with a mutation in the ar gene (aruab105/105) and examine the role of AR in sexual determination and gonad development. We found that zebrafish AR regulates male sexual determination, because the majority of aruab105/105 mutant embryos developed ovaries and displayed female secondary sexual characteristics. The small percentage of mutants that developed testes displayed female secondary sexual characteristics, exhibited structurally disorganized testes, and were unable to release or produce normal levels of sperm, demonstrating that AR is necessary for zebrafish testis development and fertility. In females, we found that AR regulates oocyte maturation and fecundity. The aruab105/105 mutant females developed ovaries filled primarily with immature stage I oocytes and few mature stage III oocytes. Two genes whose expression is enriched in wild-type ovaries compared with testes (cyp19a1a, foxl2a) were upregulated in ar mutant testes, and two genes enriched in testes (amh, dmrt1) were upregulated in ar mutant ovaries. These findings demonstrate that AR regulates sexual determination, testis development, and oocyte maturation and suggest that AR regulates sexually dimorphic gene expression. The ar mutant we developed will be useful for modeling human endocrine function in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camerron M. Crowder
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294
| | | | - Daniel A. Gorelick
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294
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28
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Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Du J, Zhao M. Environmentally relevant levels of λ-cyhalothrin, fenvalerate, and permethrin cause developmental toxicity and disrupt endocrine system in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 185:1173-1180. [PMID: 28772355 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.07.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) are one of the most widely used pesticides and frequently detected in the aquatic environment. Previous studies have shown that SPs posed high aquatic toxicity, but information on the developmental toxicity and endocrine disruption on zebrafish (Danio rerio) at environmentally relevant concentrations is limited. In this study, zebrafish embryos were employed to examine the adverse effects of λ-cyhalothrin (LCT), fenvalerate (FEN), and permethrin (PM) at 2.5, 10, 25, 125, 500 nM for 96 h. The results showed these 3 SPs caused dose-dependent mortality, malformation rate, and hatching rate. Thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) levels were significantly decreased after exposure to LCT and FEN. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis was then performed on a series of nuclear receptors (NRs) genes involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG), hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT), hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axes, and oxidative-stress-related system. Our results showed that LCT, FEN, and PM downregulated AR expression while upregulated ER1 expression, and caused alteration to ER2a and ER2b expression. As for the expression of TRα and TRβ, they were both decreased following exposure to the 3 SPs. LCT and PM downregulated the MR expression and FEN induced MR expression. In addition, the expression of GR was increased after treating with LCT, while it was suppressed after exposure to FEN and PM. The 3 SPs also caused various alterations to the expression of genes including AhRs, PPARα, and PXR. These findings suggest that these 3 SPs may cause developmental toxicity to zebrafish larvae by disrupting endocrine signaling at environmentally relevant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, China
| | - Jie Du
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, China
| | - Meirong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, China.
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29
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Bpifcl modulates kiss2 expression under the influence of 11-ketotestosterone in female zebrafish. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7926. [PMID: 28801581 PMCID: PMC5554142 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08248-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The bactericidal/permeability-increasing (BPI) fold-containing (BPIF) superfamily of genes expressed in the brain are purportedly involved in modulating brain function in response to stress, such as inflammation. Kisspeptin, encoded by kiss, is affected by inflammation in the brain; therefore, BPIF family genes might be involved in the modulation of kisspeptin in the brain. In this study, we investigated the expression of BPIF family C, like (bpifcl) in zebrafish brain and its involvement in kiss2 regulation. The identified, full-length sequence of a bpifcl isoform expressed in the zebrafish brain contained the BPI fold shared by BPIF family members. bpifcl mRNA expression in female zebrafish brains was significantly higher than that in males. Exposure of female zebrafish to 11-ketotestosterone decreased bpifcl and kiss2 mRNA expression. bpifcl knockdown by bpifcl-specific small interfering RNA administration to female zebrafish brain decreased kiss2 mRNA expression. bpifcl expression was widely distributed in the brain, including in the dorsal zone of the periventricular hypothalamus (Hd). Furthermore, bpifcl was also expressed in KISS2 neurons in the Hd. These results suggest that the Bpifcl modulates kiss2 mRNA expression under the influence of testosterone in the Hd of female zebrafish.
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30
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J. M. Schaaf M. The First Fifteen Years of Steroid Receptor Research in Zebrafish; Characterization and Functional Analysis of the Receptors. NUCLEAR RECEPTOR RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.11131/2017/101286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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31
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Tosetti V, Sassone J, Ferri ALM, Taiana M, Bedini G, Nava S, Brenna G, Di Resta C, Pareyson D, Di Giulio AM, Carelli S, Parati EA, Gorio A. Transcriptional role of androgen receptor in the expression of long non-coding RNA Sox2OT in neurogenesis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180579. [PMID: 28704421 PMCID: PMC5507538 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex architecture of adult brain derives from tightly regulated migration and differentiation of precursor cells generated during embryonic neurogenesis. Changes at transcriptional level of genes that regulate migration and differentiation may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. Androgen receptor (AR) is a transcription factor that is already expressed during early embryonic days. However, AR role in the regulation of gene expression at early embryonic stage is yet to be determinate. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Sox2 overlapping transcript (Sox2OT) plays a crucial role in gene expression control during development but its transcriptional regulation is still to be clearly defined. Here, using Bicalutamide in order to pharmacologically inactivated AR, we investigated whether AR participates in the regulation of the transcription of the lncRNASox2OTat early embryonic stage. We identified a new DNA binding region upstream of Sox2 locus containing three androgen response elements (ARE), and found that AR binds such a sequence in embryonic neural stem cells and in mouse embryonic brain. Our data suggest that through this binding, AR can promote the RNA polymerase II dependent transcription of Sox2OT. Our findings also suggest that AR participates in embryonic neurogenesis through transcriptional control of the long non-coding RNA Sox2OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Tosetti
- Department of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jenny Sassone
- Vita-Salute University and San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna L. M. Ferri
- Department of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Michela Taiana
- Clinic of Central and Peripheral Degenerative Neuropathies Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Bedini
- Department of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Nava
- Cell Therapy Production Unit, Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Cerebrovascular Unit, and Unit of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Greta Brenna
- Biostatistician Service Clinical Research—Scientific Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Resta
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Neurological Rare Diseases of Adulthood Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Di Giulio
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Pediatric Clinical Research Center Fondazione Romeo e Enrica Invernizzi, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Stephana Carelli
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenio A. Parati
- Department of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Alfredo Gorio
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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32
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Yong L, Thet Z, Zhu Y. Genetic editing of the androgen receptor contributes to impaired male courtship behavior in zebrafish. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 220:3017-3021. [PMID: 28620015 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.161596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Elucidating the genes that contribute to behavioral variation has become an important endeavor in behavioral studies. While advances in genomics have narrowed down the list of candidate genes, functional validation of them has lagged behind, partly because of challenges associated with rapid gene manipulations. Consequently, few studies have demonstrated causal genetic changes linked to behaviors. The 'gene editing revolution' has offered unprecedented opportunities to investigate candidate genes responsible for critical behaviors. Here, we edited the androgen receptor gene (AR), which is associated with male reproductive behavior in zebrafish, using TAL effector nucleases (TALENs), and tested whether modifications at the AR impacted courtship during mating trials. We reveal that males lacking AR courted females significantly less, showing reduced levels of stereotypic behaviors. Consistent with previous studies, disrupting androgen mechanisms can lead to behavioral changes with potential fitness consequences. Our study highlights the possibility of genetically altering a reproductive behavior, further solidifying the link between genotype and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lengxob Yong
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Zayer Thet
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
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Rosenfeld CS, Denslow ND, Orlando EF, Gutierrez-Villagomez JM, Trudeau VL. Neuroendocrine disruption of organizational and activational hormone programming in poikilothermic vertebrates. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2017; 20:276-304. [PMID: 28895797 PMCID: PMC6174081 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2017.1370083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
In vertebrates, sexual differentiation of the reproductive system and brain is tightly orchestrated by organizational and activational effects of endogenous hormones. In mammals and birds, the organizational period is typified by a surge of sex hormones during differentiation of specific neural circuits; whereas activational effects are dependent upon later increases in these same hormones at sexual maturation. Depending on the reproductive organ or brain region, initial programming events may be modulated by androgens or require conversion of androgens to estrogens. The prevailing notion based upon findings in mammalian models is that male brain is sculpted to undergo masculinization and defeminization. In absence of these responses, the female brain develops. While timing of organizational and activational events vary across taxa, there are shared features. Further, exposure of different animal models to environmental chemicals such as xenoestrogens such as bisphenol A-BPA and ethinylestradiol-EE2, gestagens, and thyroid hormone disruptors, broadly classified as neuroendocrine disrupting chemicals (NED), during these critical periods may result in similar alterations in brain structure, function, and consequently, behaviors. Organizational effects of neuroendocrine systems in mammals and birds appear to be permanent, whereas teleost fish neuroendocrine systems exhibit plasticity. While there are fewer NED studies in amphibians and reptiles, data suggest that NED disrupt normal organizational-activational effects of endogenous hormones, although it remains to be determined if these disturbances are reversible. The aim of this review is to examine how various environmental chemicals may interrupt normal organizational and activational events in poikilothermic vertebrates. By altering such processes, these chemicals may affect reproductive health of an animal and result in compromised populations and ecosystem-level effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S. Rosenfeld
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurobehavioral Disorders, Columbia, MO, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nancy D. Denslow
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Edward F. Orlando
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Vance L. Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Meng S, Qiu L, Hu G, Fan L, Song C, Zheng Y, Wu W, Qu J, Li D, Chen J, Xu P. Effects of methomyl on steroidogenic gene transcription of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad-liver axis in male tilapia. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 165:152-162. [PMID: 27643660 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Male tilapia were exposed to sub-lethal methomyl concentrations of 0, 0.2, 2, 20 or 200 μg/L for 30 d, and were subsequently cultured in methomyl-free water for 18 d. Relative transcript abundance of steroidogenic genes involved in the HPGL axis of male tilapia was examined at 30 d in the exposure test and at 18 d in the recovery test. The results revealed that low concentrations of methomyl (0.2 and 2 μg/L) did not cause significant changes in gene mRNA levels in the HPGL axis of male tilapia; thus, we considered 2 μg/L concentrations as the level that showed no apparent adverse endocrine disruption effects. However, higher concentrations of methomyl (20 and 200 μg/L) disrupted the endocrine system and caused significant increase in the levels of GnRH2, GnRH3, ERα, and ERβ genes in the hypothalamus, GnRHR and FSHβ genes in the pituitary, CYP19a, FSHR, and ERα genes in the testis, and VTG and ERα genes in the liver, and significantly decreased the levels of LHR, StAR, 3β-HSD, and ARα genes in the testis and LHβ gene in the pituitary, leading to changes in sex steroid hormone and vitellogenin levels in the serum and ultimately resulting in reproductive dysfunction in male tilapia. The recovery tests showed that the toxicity effect caused by 20 μg/L methomyl was reversible; however, the toxicity effect at 200 μg/L of methomyl was irreversible after 18 d. Therefore, we concluded that 200 μg/L was the threshold concentration for methomyl-induced irreversible endocrine disruption in male tilapia.
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Affiliation(s)
- ShunLong Meng
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - LiPing Qiu
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - GengDong Hu
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - LiMin Fan
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Chao Song
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Yao Zheng
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Wei Wu
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - JianHong Qu
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - DanDan Li
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - JiaZhang Chen
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.
| | - Pao Xu
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Aquatic Products on Environmental Factors, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China; Key Laboratory of Fishery Eco-environment Assessment and Resource Conservation in Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, CAFS, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.
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Pellegrini E, Diotel N, Vaillant-Capitaine C, Pérez Maria R, Gueguen MM, Nasri A, Cano Nicolau J, Kah O. Steroid modulation of neurogenesis: Focus on radial glial cells in zebrafish. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 160:27-36. [PMID: 26151741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are known as steroid hormones affecting the brain in many different ways and a wealth of data now document effects on neurogenesis. Estrogens are provided by the periphery but can also be locally produced within the brain itself due to local aromatization of circulating androgens. Adult neurogenesis is described in all vertebrate species examined so far, but comparative investigations have brought to light differences between vertebrate groups. In teleost fishes, the neurogenic activity is spectacular and adult stem cells maintain their mitogenic activity in many proliferative areas within the brain. Fish are also quite unique because brain aromatase expression is limited to radial glia cells, the progenitor cells of adult fish brain. The zebrafish has emerged as an interesting vertebrate model to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of adult neurogenesis, and notably its modulation by steroids. The main objective of this review is to summarize data related to the functional link between estrogens production in the brain and neurogenesis in fish. First, we will demonstrate that the brain of zebrafish is an endogenous source of steroids and is directly targeted by local and/or peripheral steroids. Then, we will present data demonstrating the progenitor nature of radial glial cells in the brain of adult fish. Next, we will emphasize the role of estrogens in constitutive neurogenesis and its potential contribution to the regenerative neurogenesis. Finally, the negative impacts on neurogenesis of synthetic hormones used in contraceptive pills production and released in the aquatic environment will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Nicolas Diotel
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France; Inserm UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), plateforme CYROI, Sainte-Clotilde F-97490, France; Université de La Réunion, UMR 1188, Sainte-Clotilde F-97490, France
| | - Colette Vaillant-Capitaine
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Rita Pérez Maria
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France; Laboratorio de Ictiología, Instituto Nacional de Limnología (INALI. CONICET-UNL), Paraje El Pozo, Ciudad Universitaria UNL, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marie-Madeleine Gueguen
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Ahmed Nasri
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France; Laboratoire de Biosurveillance de l'Environnement, Unité d'Ecologie côtière et d'Ecotoxicologie, Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Zarzouna 7021, Tunisia
| | - Joel Cano Nicolau
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- Inserm U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, 35000 Rennes, France
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Cano-Nicolau J, Garoche C, Hinfray N, Pellegrini E, Boujrad N, Pakdel F, Kah O, Brion F. Several synthetic progestins disrupt the glial cell specific-brain aromatase expression in developing zebra fish. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 305:12-21. [PMID: 27245768 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The effects of some progestins on fish reproduction have been recently reported revealing the hazard of this class of steroidal pharmaceuticals. However, their effects at the central nervous system level have been poorly studied until now. Notwithstanding, progesterone, although still widely considered primarily a sex hormone, is an important agent affecting many central nervous system functions. Herein, we investigated the effects of a large set of synthetic ligands of the nuclear progesterone receptor on the glial-specific expression of the zebrafish brain aromatase (cyp19a1b) using zebrafish mechanism-based assays. Progesterone and 24 progestins were first screened on transgenic cyp19a1b-GFP zebrafish embryos. We showed that progesterone, dydrogesterone, drospirenone and all the progesterone-derived progestins had no effect on GFP expression. Conversely, all progestins derived from 19-nortesterone induced GFP in a concentration-dependent manner with EC50 ranging from the low nM range to hundreds nM. The 19-nortestosterone derived progestins levonorgestrel (LNG) and norethindrone (NET) were further tested in a radial glial cell context using U251-MG cells co-transfected with zebrafish ER subtypes (zfERα, zfERβ1 or zfERβ2) and cyp19a1b promoter linked to luciferase. Progesterone had no effect on luciferase activity while NET and LNG induced luciferase activity that was blocked by ICI 182,780. Zebrafish-ERs competition assays showed that NET and LNG were unable to bind to ERs, suggesting that the effects of these compounds on cyp19a1b require metabolic activation prior to elicit estrogenic activity. Overall, we demonstrate that 19-nortestosterone derived progestins elicit estrogenic activity by inducing cyp19a1b expression in radial glial cells. Given the crucial role of radial glial cells and neuro-estrogens in early development of brain, the consequences of exposure of fish to these compounds require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Cano-Nicolau
- Team NEED, Institut de recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail (Irset), INSERM U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, SFR Biosit, 35042 Rennes cedex, France
| | - Clémentine Garoche
- Unité d'Ecotoxicologie in vitro et in vivo, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), BP 2, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Nathalie Hinfray
- Unité d'Ecotoxicologie in vitro et in vivo, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), BP 2, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Team NEED, Institut de recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail (Irset), INSERM U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, SFR Biosit, 35042 Rennes cedex, France
| | - Noureddine Boujrad
- TREK, Institut de recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail (Irset), INSERM U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, SFR Biosit, 35042 Rennes cedex, France
| | - Farzad Pakdel
- TREK, Institut de recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail (Irset), INSERM U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, SFR Biosit, 35042 Rennes cedex, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- Team NEED, Institut de recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail (Irset), INSERM U1085, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, SFR Biosit, 35042 Rennes cedex, France.
| | - François Brion
- Unité d'Ecotoxicologie in vitro et in vivo, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), BP 2, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France.
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Abstract
Differences between the left and right sides of the brain are found throughout the animal kingdom, but the consequences of altered neural asymmetry are not well understood. In the zebrafish epithalamus, the parapineal is located on the left side of the brain where it influences development of the adjacent dorsal habenular (dHb) nucleus, causing the left and right dHb to differ in their organization, gene expression, and connectivity. Left-right (L-R) reversal of parapineal position and dHb asymmetry occurs spontaneously in a small percentage of the population, whereas the dHb develop symmetrically following experimental ablation of the parapineal. The habenular region was previously implicated in modulating fear in both mice and zebrafish, but the relevance of its L-R asymmetry is unclear. We now demonstrate that disrupting directionality of the zebrafish epithalamus causes reduced exploratory behavior and increased cortisol levels, indicative of enhanced anxiety. Accordingly, exposure to buspirone, an anxiolytic agent, significantly suppresses atypical behavior. Axonal projections from the parapineal to the dHb are more variable when it is located on the right side of the brain, revealing that L-R reversals do not necessarily represent a neuroanatomical mirror image. The results highlight the importance of directional asymmetry of the epithalamus in the regulation of stress responses in zebrafish.
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Tokarz J, Möller G, Hrabě de Angelis M, Adamski J. Steroids in teleost fishes: A functional point of view. Steroids 2015; 103:123-44. [PMID: 26102270 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2015.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Steroid hormones are involved in the regulation of a variety of processes like embryonic development, sex differentiation, metabolism, immune responses, circadian rhythms, stress response, and reproduction in vertebrates. Teleost fishes and humans show a remarkable conservation in many developmental and physiological aspects, including the endocrine system in general and the steroid hormone related processes in particular. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge about steroid hormone biosynthesis and the steroid hormone receptors in teleost fishes and compares the findings to the human system. The impact of the duplicated genome in teleost fishes on steroid hormone biosynthesis and perception is addressed. Additionally, important processes in fish physiology regulated by steroid hormones, which are most dissimilar to humans, are described. We also give a short overview on the influence of anthropogenic endocrine disrupting compounds on steroid hormone signaling and the resulting adverse physiological effects for teleost fishes. By this approach, we show that the steroidogenesis, hormone receptors, and function of the steroid hormones are reasonably well understood when summarizing the available data of all teleost species analyzed to date. However, on the level of a single species or a certain fish-specific aspect of physiology, further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Tokarz
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Möller
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany; Lehrstuhl für Experimentelle Genetik, Technische Universität München, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany; Member of German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jerzy Adamski
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany; Lehrstuhl für Experimentelle Genetik, Technische Universität München, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany; Member of German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.
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Fetter E, Smetanová S, Baldauf L, Lidzba A, Altenburger R, Schüttler A, Scholz S. Identification and Characterization of Androgen-Responsive Genes in Zebrafish Embryos. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:11789-11798. [PMID: 26308493 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b01034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Responsive genes for fish embryos have been identified so far for some endocrine pathways but not for androgens. Using transcriptome analysis and multiple concentration-response modeling, we identified putative androgen-responsive genes in zebrafish embryos exposed to 0.05-5000 nM 11-ketotestosterone for 24 h. Four selected genes with sigmoidal concentration-dependent expression profiles (EC50 = 6.5-30.0 nM) were characterized in detail. The expression of cyp2k22 and slco1f4 was demonstrated in the pronephros; lipca was detected in the liver, and sult2st3 was found in the olfactory organs and choroid plexus. Their expression domains, the function of human orthologs, and a pathway analysis suggested a role of these genes in the metabolism of hormones. Hence, it was hypothesized that they were induced to compensate for elevated hormone levels. The induction of sult2st3 and cyp2k22 by 11-ketotestosterone was repressed by co-exposure to the androgen receptor antagonist nilutamide supporting a potential androgen receptor mediated regulation. Sensitivity (expressed as EC50 values) of sult2st3 and cyp2k22 gene expression induction after exposure to other steroidal hormones (11-ketotestosterone ∼ testosterone > progesterone > cortisol > ethinylestradiol) correlated with their known binding affinities to zebrafish androgen receptor. Hence, these genes might represent potential markers for screening of androgenic compounds in the zebrafish embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Fetter
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Soňa Smetanová
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- RECETOX - Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Masaryk University , Faculty of Science, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lisa Baldauf
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Annegret Lidzba
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rolf Altenburger
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Schüttler
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan Scholz
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
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Hua J, Han J, Guo Y, Zhou B. The progestin levonorgestrel affects sex differentiation in zebrafish at environmentally relevant concentrations. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2015; 166:1-9. [PMID: 26163149 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2015.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic progestins have become widespread environmental contaminants and may cause adverse effects on fish. In the present study, we investigated the effects of levonorgestrel (LNG) on sex differentiation in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Embryos were exposed to LNG at environmentally relevant concentrations (0, 1, 10, 33, and 100ng/L) and allowed to develop until sexual maturity. Histological examination at 63 days post fertilization (dpf) caused complete sex reversal and 100% males were observed in the 10, 33 and 100ng/L treatments; gross morphological and histological examination of gonads at 142dpf further confirmed 100% males at these exposure concentrations. The results indicate androgenic activity of LNG, and masculinization during zebrafish gonadal differentiation. The mRNA expression levels of genes involved in fish sex differentiation and gonadal development were examined at 28 and 42dpf. Down-regulation of the mRNA expression of aromatase (e.g., cyp19a1a, cyp19a1b), the forkhead transcription factor gene L2 (foxl2) and the Fushi tarazu factor-1d (nr5a1b) were observed. In contrast, transcription of the doublesex and mab-3-related transcription factor 1 (dmrt1) gene was up-regulated. Androgen receptor (ar) mRNA expression was significantly down-regulated at 28 and 42dpf. Co-exposure to flutamide (an androgen antagonist) and LNG, led to a decrease in the sex inversion potency of LNG. Our study has demonstrated that environmentally relevant concentrations of LNG could alter sex differentiation and gonadal development in zebrafish. Our results also suggest a potentially high ecological risk of LNG to fish populations in LNG-contaminated aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghuan Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jian Han
- Biology Institute of Shangdong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Yongyong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Bingsheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China.
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Cortés-Campos C, Letelier J, Ceriani R, Whitlock KE. Zebrafish adult-derived hypothalamic neurospheres generate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Biol Open 2015. [PMID: 26209533 PMCID: PMC4582115 DOI: 10.1242/bio.010447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hypothalamic decapeptide essential for fertility in vertebrates. Human male patients lacking GnRH and treated with hormone therapy can remain fertile after cessation of treatment suggesting that new GnRH neurons can be generated during adult life. We used zebrafish to investigate the neurogenic potential of the adult hypothalamus. Previously we have characterized the development of GnRH cells in the zebrafish linking genetic pathways to the differentiation of neuromodulatory and endocrine GnRH cells in specific regions of the brain. Here, we developed a new method to obtain neural progenitors from the adult hypothalamus in vitro. Using this system, we show that neurospheres derived from the adult hypothalamus can be maintained in culture and subsequently differentiate glia and neurons. Importantly, the adult derived progenitors differentiate into neurons containing GnRH and the number of cells is increased through exposure to either testosterone or GnRH, hormones used in therapeutic treatment in humans. Finally, we show in vivo that a neurogenic niche in the hypothalamus contains GnRH positive neurons. Thus, we demonstrated for the first time that neurospheres can be derived from the hypothalamus of the adult zebrafish and that these neural progenitors are capable of producing GnRH containing neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Cortés-Campos
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Pasaje Harrington 269, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research (WIBR), 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Joaquín Letelier
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Pasaje Harrington 269, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Carretera de Utera km 1, Sevilla 41013, España
| | - Ricardo Ceriani
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Pasaje Harrington 269, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Kathleen E Whitlock
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Pasaje Harrington 269, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
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Liang YQ, Huang GY, Ying GG, Liu SS, Jiang YX, Liu S, Peng FJ. The effects of progesterone on transcriptional expression profiles of genes associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axes during the early development of zebrafish (Danio rerio). CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 128:199-206. [PMID: 25706437 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) has been reported in surface water, and it may have adverse effects on aquatic organisms. This study provided the transcriptional effects of P4 during the early development of zebrafish. Zebrafish embryos were exposed for 144 h post fertilization (hpf) to 0, 6, 45 and 90 ng L(-1) P4, and transcriptional expression profiles of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axes were assessed every day. For the receptor signaling pathways, P4 significantly induced the transcript of Pgr gene above 45 ng L(-1) at 72 and 144 hpf, but inhibited its transcript above 6 ng L(-1) at 96 and 120 hpf. A significant up-regulation of Vtg1 mRNA was observed at 6 ng L(-1) P4 or higher at 24, 96 and 144 hpf. For the steroidogenic pathways, the transcriptional expression of Cyp11a1 and Hsd17b3 mRNAs was mediated by 6 ng L(-1) P4 or higher according to different exposure time points. In addition, P4 resulted in a significant induction of Cyp19a1a and Cyp11b mRNA expression while it caused a significant inhibition of Hsd11b2 mRNA expression above 6 ng L(-1). For the other target genes related to hypothalamic and pituitary hormones, P4 mainly modulated the transcripts of Gnrh2, Fshb and Lhb genes at 6 ng L(-1) or higher. The overall results from the present study indicate that P4 at environmentally relevant concentrations could cause the potential effects on zebrafish reproductive and adrenal endocrine systems by interfering with the HPG and HPA axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Qiu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Guo-Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Shuang-Shuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Yu-Xia Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Shan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Bio-Resources Sustainable Utilization, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Feng-Jiao Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
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43
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Transcripts involved in steroid biosynthesis and steroid receptor signaling are expressed early in development in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 182:64-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2014.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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44
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Kinch CD, Ibhazehiebo K, Jeong JH, Habibi HR, Kurrasch DM. Low-dose exposure to bisphenol A and replacement bisphenol S induces precocious hypothalamic neurogenesis in embryonic zebrafish. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:1475-80. [PMID: 25583509 PMCID: PMC4321238 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1417731112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), a ubiquitous endocrine disruptor that is present in many household products, has been linked to obesity, cancer, and, most relevant here, childhood neurological disorders such as anxiety and hyperactivity. However, how BPA exposure translates into these neurodevelopmental disorders remains poorly understood. Here, we used zebrafish to link BPA mechanistically to disease etiology. Strikingly, treatment of embryonic zebrafish with very low-dose BPA (0.0068 μM, 1,000-fold lower than the accepted human daily exposure) and bisphenol S (BPS), a common analog used in BPA-free products, resulted in 180% and 240% increases, respectively, in neuronal birth (neurogenesis) within the hypothalamus, a highly conserved brain region involved in hyperactivity. Furthermore, restricted BPA/BPS exposure specifically during the neurogenic window caused later hyperactive behaviors in zebrafish larvae. Unexpectedly, we show that BPA-mediated precocious neurogenesis and the concomitant behavioral phenotype were not dependent on predicted estrogen receptors but relied on androgen receptor-mediated up-regulation of aromatase. Although human epidemiological results are still emerging, an association between high maternal urinary BPA during gestation and hyperactivity and other behavioral disturbances in the child has been suggested. Our studies here provide mechanistic support that the neurogenic period indeed may be a window of vulnerability and uncovers previously unexplored avenues of research into how endocrine disruptors might perturb early brain development. Furthermore, our results show that BPA-free products are not necessarily safer and support the removal of all bisphenols from consumer merchandise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra D Kinch
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Medical Genetics and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1
| | - Kingsley Ibhazehiebo
- Medical Genetics and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1
| | - Joo-Hyun Jeong
- Medical Genetics and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1
| | | | - Deborah M Kurrasch
- Medical Genetics and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1
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45
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Bugel SM, Tanguay RL, Planchart A. Zebrafish: A marvel of high-throughput biology for 21 st century toxicology. Curr Environ Health Rep 2014; 1:341-352. [PMID: 25678986 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-014-0029-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionary conservation of genomic, biochemical and developmental features between zebrafish and humans is gradually coming into focus with the end result that the zebrafish embryo model has emerged as a powerful tool for uncovering the effects of environmental exposures on a multitude of biological processes with direct relevance to human health. In this review, we highlight advances in automation, high-throughput (HT) screening, and analysis that leverage the power of the zebrafish embryo model for unparalleled advances in our understanding of how chemicals in our environment affect our health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Bugel
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
| | - Robert L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
| | - Antonio Planchart
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
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46
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Santos D, Matos M, Coimbra AM. Developmental toxicity of endocrine disruptors in early life stages of zebrafish, a genetic and embryogenesis study. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2014; 46:18-25. [PMID: 25172296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are capable of interfering with the endocrine system and are increasingly widespread in the aquatic environments. In the present study, zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and larvae were used to assess how EDCs may interfere with embryogenesis. Therefore, zebrafish embryos were exposed to 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2: 0.4, 2, 4 and 20 ng/L), genistein (Gen: 2, 20, 200 and 2000 ng/L) and fadrozole (Fad: 2, 10, 50 and 250 μg/L), between 2 and 144 h post-fertilization (hpf). Somite development, heartbeat, malformations, mortality and hatching rates were evaluated. In parallel, the expression patterns of hormone receptors (esr1, esr2a, esr2b and ar) and apoptotic pathways related genes (p53 and c-jun) were determined using quantitative real-time PCR. Results showed that EE2, Gen and Fad caused a higher mortality and also malformations in larvae compared with control. A significant toxic effect was observed in the heartbeat rate, at 144 hpf, in larvae exposed to EE2 and Fad. QPCR revealed alterations in the expression levels of all the evaluated genes, at different time points. esr1 and c-jun genes were upregulated by EE2 and Gen exposure while the expression of esr2a, esr2b and ar genes was downregulated. Fad exposure decreased esr1, p53 and c-jun expression levels. This study shows a toxic effect of EE2, Gen and Fad to vertebrate embryogenesis and a relation between hormones action and apoptosis pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dércia Santos
- Life Sciences and Environment School, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Manuela Matos
- Life Sciences and Environment School, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering/Centre of Genomics and Biotechnology (IBB/CGB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Ana M Coimbra
- Life Sciences and Environment School, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
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47
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Makantasi P, Dermon CR. Estradiol treatment decreases cell proliferation in the neurogenic zones of adult female zebrafish (Danio rerio) brain. Neuroscience 2014; 277:306-20. [PMID: 25034512 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.06.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
While estrogens are known to play a crucial role in the neurogenesis of the mammalian and avian brain, their role in teleost adult proliferation pattern is not yet fully understood. The present study aimed to determine the estrogen effects in adult brain proliferation zones, using zebrafish, as a model organism. Indeed, teleost fish brain provides a unique adult neurogenesis model, based on its extensive proliferation, contrasting the restricted adult telencephalic neurogenesis observed in birds and mammals. To determine the effect of estrogens, 17-β estradiol was administrated for 7 days in adult female zebrafish, followed by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence. Stereological analyses of the BrdU-positive cells within the neurogenic zones, showed region-specific decreases of actively proliferating cells in the estrogen-treated animals, compared to matched controls. Interestingly, the most prominent estradiol effects were found in the number of cycling cells of the ventral nucleus of ventral telencephalic area (Vv) and cerebellar areas. Significant decreases were also determined in the dorso-lateral telencephalic, preoptic and dorsal hypothalamic areas. In contrast, medial dorsal telencephalic, caudal (Hc) and ventral (Hv) hypothalamic areas were unaffected by estrogen treatment. The majority of the BrdU-labeled cells were found to co-express PCNA proliferating marker in Hc, Hv and Vv. Additionally, a population of proliferating cells co-expressed the early neuronal marker TOAD in all areas studied. These results provide significant evidence on the 17-β estradiol impact on adult neurogenesis, down-regulating the fast-cycling and post-mitotic cells within the female zebrafish brain neurogenetic zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Makantasi
- Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26500 Rion, Greece
| | - C R Dermon
- Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26500 Rion, Greece.
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48
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Singleman C, Holtzman NG. Growth and maturation in the zebrafish, Danio rerio: a staging tool for teaching and research. Zebrafish 2014; 11:396-406. [PMID: 24979389 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2014.0976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish have been increasingly used as a teaching tool to enhance the learning of many biological concepts from genetics, development, and behavior to the understanding of the local watershed. Traditionally, in both research and teaching, zebrafish work has focused on embryonic stages; however, later stages, from larval through adulthood, are increasingly being examined. Defining developmental stages based on age is a problematic way to assess maturity, because many environmental factors, such as temperature, population density, and water quality, impact growth and maturation. Fish length and characterization of key external morphological traits are considered better markers for maturation state. While a number of staging series exist for zebrafish, here we present a simplified normalization table of post-embryonic maturation well suited to both educational and research use. Specifically, we utilize fish size and four easily identified external morphological traits (pigment pattern, tail fin, anal fin, and dorsal fin morphology) to describe three larval stages, a juvenile stage, and an adult stage. These simplified maturation standards will be a useful tool for both educational and research protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Singleman
- 1 Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York , Queens, New York
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49
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deCarvalho TN, Subedi A, Rock J, Harfe BD, Thisse C, Thisse B, Halpern ME, Hong E. Neurotransmitter map of the asymmetric dorsal habenular nuclei of zebrafish. Genesis 2014; 52:636-55. [PMID: 24753112 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The role of the habenular nuclei in modulating fear and reward pathways has sparked a renewed interest in this conserved forebrain region. The bilaterally paired habenular nuclei, each consisting of a medial/dorsal and lateral/ventral nucleus, can be further divided into discrete subdomains whose neuronal populations, precise connectivity, and specific functions are not well understood. An added complexity is that the left and right habenulae show pronounced morphological differences in many non-mammalian species. Notably, the dorsal habenulae of larval zebrafish provide a vertebrate genetic model to probe the development and functional significance of brain asymmetry. Previous reports have described a number of genes that are expressed in the zebrafish habenulae, either in bilaterally symmetric patterns or more extensively on one side of the brain than the other. The goal of our study was to generate a comprehensive map of the zebrafish dorsal habenular nuclei, by delineating the relationship between gene expression domains, comparing the extent of left-right asymmetry at larval and adult stages, and identifying potentially functional subnuclear regions as defined by neurotransmitter phenotype. Although many aspects of habenular organization appear conserved with rodents, the zebrafish habenulae also possess unique properties that may underlie lateralization of their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tagide N deCarvalho
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, Maryland
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50
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Lu X, Yu RMK, Murphy MB, Lau K, Wu RSS. Hypoxia disrupts gene modulation along the brain-pituitary-gonad (BPG)-liver axis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2014; 102:70-78. [PMID: 24580824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2014.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia alters sex hormone concentrations leading to reproductive impairment in fish; however the mechanisms underlying these effects remain largely unknown. Using zebrafish (Danio rerio), this study is the first to demonstrate that hypoxia causes endocrine disruption by simultaneously acting on multiple targets along the brain-pituitary-gonadal (BPG)-liver axis in fish. Alterations in the expression of key genes associated with reproductive endocrine pathways in the brain (sGnRH), pituitary (FSHβ and LHβ), gonads (FSH-R, LH-R, HMGR, StAR, CYP19A, CYP11A, CYP11β and 20β-HSD), and liver were correlated with significant reductions of estradiol in females and testosterone in males. Hypoxia also induced sex-specific and tissue-specific changes in the expression of estrogen, androgen, and membrane progestin receptors along the BPG axis, suggesting disruption of the feedback and synchronization of hormone signals. Furthermore, the hypoxia-induced upregulation of hepatic sex hormone-binding globulin suggests an increase in hormone transport and reduced bioavailability in blood, while upregulation of hepatic CYP3A65 and CYP1A in females suggests an increase in estrogen biotransformation and clearance. Given that the regulation of reproductive hormones and the BPG-liver axis are highly conserved, this study provides new insights into the hypoxia-induced endocrine disrupting mechanisms and reproductive impairment in other vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Lu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Richard M K Yu
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Margaret B Murphy
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karen Lau
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Rudolf S S Wu
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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