1
|
Pellegrini E, Fernezelian D, Malleret C, Gueguen MM, Patche-Firmin J, Rastegar S, Meilhac O, Diotel N. Estrogenic regulation of claudin 5 and tight junction protein 1 gene expression in zebrafish: A role on blood-brain barrier? J Comp Neurol 2023; 531:1828-1845. [PMID: 37814509 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25543] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a physical interface between the blood and the brain parenchyma, playing key roles in brain homeostasis. In mammals, the BBB is established thanks to tight junctions between cerebral endothelial cells, involving claudin, occludin, and zonula occludens proteins. Estrogens have been documented to modulate BBB permeability. Interestingly, in the brain of zebrafish, the estrogen-synthesizing activity is strong due to the high expression of Aromatase B protein, encoded by the cyp19a1b gene, in radial glial cells (neural stem cells). Given the roles of estrogens in BBB function, we investigated their impact on the expression of genes involved in BBB tight junctions. We treated zebrafish embryos and adult males with 17β-estradiol and observed an increased cerebral expression of tight junction and claudin 5 genes in adult males only. In females, treatment with the nuclear estrogen receptor antagonist (ICI182,780 ) had no impact. Interestingly, telencephalic injuries performed in males decreased tight junction gene expression that was partially reversed with 17β-estradiol. This was further confirmed by extravasation experiments of Evans blue showing that estrogenic treatment limits BBB leakage. We also highlighted the intimate links between endothelial cells and neural stem cells, suggesting that cholesterol and peripheral steroids could be taken up by endothelial cells and used as precursors for estrogen synthesis by neural stem cells. Together, our results show that zebrafish provides an alternative model to further investigate the role of steroids on the expression of genes involved in BBB integrity, both in constitutive and regenerative physiological conditions. The link we described between capillaries endothelial cells and steroidogenic neural cells encourages the use of this model in understanding the mechanisms by which peripheral steroids get into neural tissue and modulate neurogenic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Danielle Fernezelian
- Université de La Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Denis, France
| | - Cassandra Malleret
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Marie-Madeleine Gueguen
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Jessica Patche-Firmin
- Université de La Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Denis, France
| | - Sepand Rastegar
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Biological Information Processing (IBCS-BIP), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de La Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Denis, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Nicolas Diotel
- Université de La Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Denis, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kuwahara N, Nicholson K, Isaacs L, MacLusky NJ. Androgen Effects on Neural Plasticity. ANDROGENS: CLINICAL RESEARCH AND THERAPEUTICS 2021; 2:216-230. [PMID: 35024693 PMCID: PMC8744448 DOI: 10.1089/andro.2021.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are synthesized in the brain, gonads, and adrenal glands, in both sexes, exerting physiologically important effects on the structure and function of the central nervous system. These effects may contribute to the incidence and progression of neurological disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease, which occur at different rates in males and females. This review briefly summarizes the current state of knowledge with respect to the neuroplastic effects of androgens, with particular emphasis on the hippocampus, which has been the focus of much of the research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nariko Kuwahara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kate Nicholson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Lauren Isaacs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Neil J. MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wan L, Huang RJ, Luo ZH, Gong JE, Pan A, Manavis J, Yan XX, Xiao B. Reproduction-Associated Hormones and Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:3651735. [PMID: 34539776 PMCID: PMC8448607 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3651735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The levels of reproduction-associated hormones in females, such as estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin, change dramatically during pregnancy and postpartum. Reproduction-associated hormones can affect adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN), thereby regulating mothers' behavior after delivery. In this review, we first briefly introduce the overall functional significance of AHN and the methods commonly used to explore this front. Then, we attempt to reconcile the changes of reproduction-associated hormones during pregnancy. We further update the findings on how reproduction-related hormones influence adult hippocampal neurogenesis. This review is aimed at emphasizing a potential role of AHN in reproduction-related brain plasticity and its neurobiological relevance to motherhood behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Rou-Jie Huang
- Medical Doctor Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Jiao-e Gong
- Department of Neurology, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Aihua Pan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Jim Manavis
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia 5000
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Spritzer MD, Roy EA. Testosterone and Adult Neurogenesis. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020225. [PMID: 32028656 PMCID: PMC7072323 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that neurogenesis occurs throughout adulthood in select brain regions, but the functional significance of adult neurogenesis remains unclear. There is considerable evidence that steroid hormones modulate various stages of adult neurogenesis, and this review provides a focused summary of the effects of testosterone on adult neurogenesis. Initial evidence came from field studies with birds and wild rodent populations. Subsequent experiments with laboratory rodents have tested the effects of testosterone and its steroid metabolites upon adult neurogenesis, as well as the functional consequences of induced changes in neurogenesis. These experiments have provided clear evidence that testosterone increases adult neurogenesis within the dentate gyrus region of the hippocampus through an androgen-dependent pathway. Most evidence indicates that androgens selectively enhance the survival of newly generated neurons, while having little effect on cell proliferation. Whether this is a result of androgens acting directly on receptors of new neurons remains unclear, and indirect routes involving brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucocorticoids may be involved. In vitro experiments suggest that testosterone has broad-ranging neuroprotective effects, which will be briefly reviewed. A better understanding of the effects of testosterone upon adult neurogenesis could shed light on neurological diseases that show sex differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Spritzer
- Department of Biology, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: 802-443-5676
| | - Ethan A. Roy
- Graduate School of Education, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kranz TM, Lent KL, Miller KE, Chao MV, Brenowitz EA. Rapamycin blocks the neuroprotective effects of sex steroids in the adult birdsong system. Dev Neurobiol 2019; 79:794-804. [PMID: 31509642 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In adult songbirds, the telencephalic song nucleus HVC and its efferent target RA undergo pronounced seasonal changes in morphology. In breeding birds, there are increases in HVC volume and total neuron number, and RA neuronal soma area compared to nonbreeding birds. At the end of breeding, HVC neurons die through caspase-dependent apoptosis and thus, RA neuron size decreases. Changes in HVC and RA are driven by seasonal changes in circulating testosterone (T) levels. Infusing T, or its metabolites 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 17 β-estradiol (E2), intracerebrally into HVC (but not RA) protects HVC neurons from death, and RA neuron size, in nonbreeding birds. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt (a serine/threonine kinase)-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is a point of convergence for neuroprotective effects of sex steroids and other trophic factors. We asked if mTOR activation is necessary for the protective effect of hormones in HVC and RA of adult male Gambel's white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii). We transferred sparrows from breeding to nonbreeding hormonal and photoperiod conditions to induce regression of HVC neurons by cell death and decrease of RA neuron size. We infused either DHT + E2, DHT + E2 plus the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, or vehicle alone in HVC. Infusion of DHT + E2 protected both HVC and RA neurons. Coinfusion of rapamycin with DHT + E2, however, blocked the protective effect of hormones on HVC volume and neuron number, and RA neuron size. These results suggest that activation of mTOR is an essential downstream step in the neuroprotective cascade initiated by sex steroid hormones in the forebrain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten M Kranz
- Department of Psychiatry, Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, Langone Medical Center, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Karin L Lent
- Departments of Psychology and Biology, Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kimberly E Miller
- Departments of Psychology and Biology, Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Moses V Chao
- Department of Psychiatry, Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, Langone Medical Center, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Eliot A Brenowitz
- Departments of Psychology and Biology, Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Duarte-Guterman P, Lieblich SE, Wainwright SR, Chow C, Chaiton JA, Watson NV, Galea LAM. Androgens Enhance Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Males but Not Females in an Age-Dependent Manner. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2128-2136. [PMID: 31219567 PMCID: PMC6736050 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Androgens (testosterone and DHT) increase adult hippocampal neurogenesis by increasing survival of new neurons in male rats and mice via an androgen receptor pathway, but it is not known whether androgens regulate neurogenesis in female rats and whether the effect is age-dependent. We investigated the effects of DHT, a potent androgen, on neurogenesis in young adult and middle-aged male and female rats. Rats were gonadectomized and injected with the DNA synthesis marker bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). The following day, rats began receiving daily injections of oil or DHT for 30 days. We evaluated cell proliferation (Ki67) and survival of new neurons (BrdU and BrdU/NeuN) in the hippocampus of male and female rats by using immunohistochemistry. As expected, DHT increased the number of BrdU+ cells in young males but surprisingly not in middle-aged males or in young and middle-aged females. In middle age, DHT increased the proportion of BrdU/NeuN cells, an effect driven by females. Androgen receptor expression also increased with aging in both female and male rats, which may contribute to a lack of DHT neurogenic effect in middle age. Our results indicate that DHT regulates adult hippocampal neurogenesis in a sex- and age-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Duarte-Guterman
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephanie E Lieblich
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steven R Wainwright
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Carmen Chow
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica A Chaiton
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Neil V Watson
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Correspondence: Liisa A. M. Galea, PhD, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, 2215 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen S, Kumar N, Mao Z, Sitruk-Ware R, Brinton RD. Therapeutic progestin segesterone acetate promotes neurogenesis: implications for sustaining regeneration in female brain. Menopause 2018; 25:1138-1151. [PMID: 29846284 PMCID: PMC7731586 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurogenesis is the principal regenerative mechanism to sustain the plasticity potential in adult brains. Decreased neurogenesis parallels the cognition decline with aging, and has been suggested as a common hallmark in the progression of many neurodegeneration diseases. We previously reported that acute exposure to segesterone acetate (ST-1435; Nestorone), alone or in combination with 17β-estradiol (E2), increased human neural stem cells proliferation and survival both in vitro and in vivo. The present study expanded our previous findings to investigate the more clinical related chronic exposure in combination with E2 on the regenerative capacity of adult brain. METHODS To mimic the chronic contraception exposure in women, 3-month old female mice (n = 110) were treated with ST-1435, with or without co-administration of E2, for 4 weeks. Neural cell proliferation and survival, and oligodendrocyte generation were assessed. The involvement of insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling was studied. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that chronic ST-1435 and E2 alone or in combination increased neurogenesis by a comparable magnitude, with minimum to no antagonistic or additive effects between ST-1435 and E2. In addition, chronic exposure of ST-1435 or ST-1435 + E2 stimulated oligodendrocyte generation, indicating potential elevated myelination. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) were also up-regulated after chronic ST-1435 and E2 exposure, suggesting the involvement of IGF-1 signaling as the potential underlined regulatory pathway transducing ST-1435 effect. CONCLUSION These findings provide preclinical evidence and mechanistic insights for the development of ST-1435 as a neuroregenerative therapy to promote intrinsic regenerative capacity in female brains against aging and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuhua Chen
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Narendar Kumar
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council,, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zisu Mao
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Roberta Diaz Brinton
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Frick KM, Kim J. Mechanisms underlying the rapid effects of estradiol and progesterone on hippocampal memory consolidation in female rodents. Horm Behav 2018; 104:100-110. [PMID: 29727606 PMCID: PMC6226372 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Although rapid effects of 17β‑estradiol (E2) and progesterone on cellular functions have been observed for several decades, a proliferation of data in recent years has demonstrated the importance of these actions to cognition. In particular, an emerging literature has demonstrated that these hormones promote the consolidation of spatial and object recognition memories in rodents via rapid activation of numerous cellular events including cell signaling, histone modifications, and local protein translation in the hippocampus. This article provides an overview of the evidence demonstrating that E2 and progesterone enhance hippocampal memory consolidation in female rodents, and then discusses numerous molecular mechanisms thus far shown to mediate the beneficial effects of these hormones on memory formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States.
| | - Jaekyoon Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Moraga‐Amaro R, van Waarde A, Doorduin J, de Vries EFJ. Sex steroid hormones and brain function: PET imaging as a tool for research. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12565. [PMID: 29237239 PMCID: PMC5838537 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are major regulators of sexual characteristic among species. These hormones, however, are also produced in the brain. Steroidal hormone-mediated signalling via the corresponding hormone receptors can influence brain function at the cellular level and thus affect behaviour and higher brain functions. Altered steroid hormone signalling has been associated with psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Neurosteroids are also considered to have a neuroprotective effect in neurodegenerative diseases. So far, the role of steroid hormone receptors in physiological and pathological conditions has mainly been investigated post mortem on animal or human brain tissues. To study the dynamic interplay between sex steroids, their receptors, brain function and behaviour in psychiatric and neurological disorders in a longitudinal manner, however, non-invasive techniques are needed. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a non-invasive imaging tool that is used to quantitatively investigate a variety of physiological and biochemical parameters in vivo. PET uses radiotracers aimed at a specific target (eg, receptor, enzyme, transporter) to visualise the processes of interest. In this review, we discuss the current status of the use of PET imaging for studying sex steroid hormones in the brain. So far, PET has mainly been investigated as a tool to measure (changes in) sex hormone receptor expression in the brain, to measure a key enzyme in the steroid synthesis pathway (aromatase) and to evaluate the effects of hormonal treatment by imaging specific downstream processes in the brain. Although validated radiotracers for a number of targets are still warranted, PET can already be a useful technique for steroid hormone research and facilitate the translation of interesting findings in animal studies to clinical trials in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Moraga‐Amaro
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular ImagingUniversity Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - A. van Waarde
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular ImagingUniversity Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - J. Doorduin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular ImagingUniversity Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - E. F. J. de Vries
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular ImagingUniversity Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Piechota M, Korostynski M, Golda S, Ficek J, Jantas D, Barbara Z, Przewlocki R. Transcriptional signatures of steroid hormones in the striatal neurons and astrocytes. BMC Neurosci 2017; 18:37. [PMID: 28381250 PMCID: PMC5381047 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-017-0352-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The mechanisms of steroids actions in the brain mainly involve the binding and nuclear translocation of specific cytoplasmic receptors. These receptors can act as transcription factors and regulate gene expression. However, steroid-dependent transcriptional regulation in different types of neural cells is not yet fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare transcriptional alterations induced by various steroid receptor agonists in primary cultures of astrocytes and neurons from mouse brain. Results We utilized whole-genome microarrays (Illumina Mouse WG-6) and quantitative PCR analyses to measure mRNA abundance levels. To stimulate gene expression we treated neuronal and astroglial cultures with dexamethasone (100 nM), aldosterone (200 nM), progesterone (200 nM), 5α-dihydrotestosterone (200 nM) and β-Estradiol (200 nM) for 4 h. Neurons were found to exhibit higher levels of expression of mineralocorticoid receptor, progesterone receptor and estrogen receptor 2 than astrocytes. However, higher mRNA level of glucocorticoid receptor mRNA was observed in astrocytes. We identified 956 genes regulated by steroids. In astrocytes we found 381 genes altered by dexamethasone and 19 altered by aldosterone. Functional classification of the regulated genes indicated their putative involvement in multiple aspects of cell metabolism (up-regulated Slc2a1, Pdk4 and Slc45a3) and the inflammatory response (down-regulated Ccl3, Il1b and Tnf). Progesterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol did not change gene expression in astrocytes. We found no significant changes in gene expression in neurons. Conclusions The obtained results indicate that glial cells might be the primary targets of transcriptional action of steroids in the central nervous system. Substantial changes in gene expression driven by the glucocorticoid receptor imply an important role for the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in the hormone-dependent regulation of brain physiology. This is an in vitro study. Hence, the model may not accurately reflect all the effects of steroids on gene expression in neurons in vivo. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12868-017-0352-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Piechota
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Michał Korostynski
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Slawomir Golda
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Ficek
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Danuta Jantas
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ziolkowska Barbara
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ryszard Przewlocki
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
LaDage LD, Roth TC, Downs CJ, Sinervo B, Pravosudov VV. Increased Testosterone Decreases Medial Cortical Volume and Neurogenesis in Territorial Side-Blotched Lizards ( Uta stansburiana). Front Neurosci 2017; 11:97. [PMID: 28298883 PMCID: PMC5331184 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Variation in an animal's spatial environment can induce variation in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved in spatial cognitive processing. Specifically, increased spatial area use is correlated with increased hippocampal attributes, such as volume and neurogenesis. In the side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), males demonstrate alternative reproductive tactics and are either territorial—defending large, clearly defined spatial boundaries—or non-territorial—traversing home ranges that are smaller than the territorial males' territories. Our previous work demonstrated cortical volume (reptilian hippocampal homolog) correlates with these spatial niches. We found that territorial holders have larger medial cortices than non-territory holders, yet these differences in the neural architecture demonstrated some degree of plasticity as well. Although we have demonstrated a link among territoriality, spatial use, and brain plasticity, the mechanisms that underlie this relationship are unclear. Previous studies found that higher testosterone levels can induce increased use of the spatial area and can cause an upregulation in hippocampal attributes. Thus, testosterone may be the mechanistic link between spatial area use and the brain. What remains unclear, however, is if testosterone can affect the cortices independent of spatial experiences and whether testosterone differentially interacts with territorial status to produce the resultant cortical phenotype. In this study, we compared neurogenesis as measured by the total number of doublecortin-positive cells and cortical volume between territorial and non-territorial males supplemented with testosterone. We found no significant differences in the number of doublecortin-positive cells or cortical volume among control territorial, control non-territorial, and testosterone-supplemented non-territorial males, while testosterone-supplemented territorial males had smaller medial cortices containing fewer doublecortin-positive cells. These results demonstrate that testosterone can modulate medial cortical attributes outside of differential spatial processing experiences but that territorial males appear to be more sensitive to alterations in testosterone levels compared with non-territorial males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara D LaDage
- Division of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Penn State University Altoona Altoona, PA, USA
| | - Timothy C Roth
- Department of Psychology, Franklin and Marshall College Lancaster, PA, USA
| | | | - Barry Sinervo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hamson DK, Roes MM, Galea LAM. Sex Hormones and Cognition: Neuroendocrine Influences on Memory and Learning. Compr Physiol 2016; 6:1295-337. [DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c150031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
14
|
Control of adult neurogenesis by programmed cell death in the mammalian brain. Mol Brain 2016; 9:43. [PMID: 27098178 PMCID: PMC4839132 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-016-0224-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of neural stem cells (NSCs) and the production of new neurons in the adult brain have received great attention from scientists and the public because of implications to brain plasticity and their potential use for treating currently incurable brain diseases. Adult neurogenesis is controlled at multiple levels, including proliferation, differentiation, migration, and programmed cell death (PCD). Among these, PCD is the last and most prominent process for regulating the final number of mature neurons integrated into neural circuits. PCD can be classified into apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagic cell death and emerging evidence suggests that all three may be important modes of cell death in neural stem/progenitor cells. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate PCD and thereby impact the intricate balance between self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation during adult neurogenesis are not well understood. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the extent, mechanism, and biological significance of PCD for the control of adult neurogenesis in the mammalian brain. The role of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in the regulation of PCD at the molecular and systems levels is also discussed. Adult neurogenesis is a dynamic process, and the signals for differentiation, proliferation, and death of neural progenitor/stem cells are closely interrelated. A better understanding of how adult neurogenesis is influenced by PCD will help lead to important insights relevant to brain health and diseases.
Collapse
|
15
|
Leuner B, Sabihi S. The birth of new neurons in the maternal brain: Hormonal regulation and functional implications. Front Neuroendocrinol 2016; 41:99-113. [PMID: 26969795 PMCID: PMC4942360 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The maternal brain is remarkably plastic and exhibits multifaceted neural modifications. Neurogenesis has emerged as one of the mechanisms by which the maternal brain exhibits plasticity. This review highlights what is currently known about peripartum-associated changes in adult neurogenesis and the underlying hormonal mechanisms. We also consider the functional consequences of neurogenesis in the peripartum brain and extent to which this process may play a role in maternal care, cognitive function and postpartum mood. Finally, while most work investigating the effects of parenting on adult neurogenesis has focused on mothers, a few studies have examined fathers and these results are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Leuner
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychology, Columbus, OH, USA; The Ohio State University, Department of Neuroscience, Columbus, OH, USA; The Ohio State University, Behavioral Neuroendocrinology Group, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Sara Sabihi
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychology, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Frick KM, Kim J, Tuscher JJ, Fortress AM. Sex steroid hormones matter for learning and memory: estrogenic regulation of hippocampal function in male and female rodents. Learn Mem 2015; 22:472-93. [PMID: 26286657 PMCID: PMC4561402 DOI: 10.1101/lm.037267.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Ample evidence has demonstrated that sex steroid hormones, such as the potent estrogen 17β-estradiol (E2), affect hippocampal morphology, plasticity, and memory in male and female rodents. Yet relatively few investigators who work with male subjects consider the effects of these hormones on learning and memory. This review describes the effects of E2 on hippocampal spinogenesis, neurogenesis, physiology, and memory, with particular attention paid to the effects of E2 in male rodents. The estrogen receptors, cell-signaling pathways, and epigenetic processes necessary for E2 to enhance memory in female rodents are also discussed in detail. Finally, practical considerations for working with female rodents are described for those investigators thinking of adding females to their experimental designs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211, USA
| | - Jaekyoon Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211, USA
| | - Jennifer J Tuscher
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211, USA
| | - Ashley M Fortress
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kromrey SA, Czoty PW, Nader MA. Relationship between estradiol and progesterone concentrations and cognitive performance in normally cycling female cynomolgus monkeys. Horm Behav 2015; 72:12-9. [PMID: 25921587 PMCID: PMC4466063 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical research has demonstrated that cognitive function may be influenced by estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations, although few cognition studies involve normally cycling females. The present study examined cognitive performance in normally cycling female cynomolgus macaques (n = 14), a species with similarities to humans in brain organization and a nearly identical menstrual cycle to women. Initial assessments compared cognitive measures to circulating concentrations of E2 and P4 (n = 12). Once a relationship was characterized between hormones and cognitive performance, the menstrual cycle was divided into four distinct phases: early follicular (EF), late follicular (LF), early luteal (EL) and late luteal (LL), verified by the onset of menses and serum concentrations of E2 and P4. Concentrations of E2 were highest during the LF phase and P4 concentrations peaked during the EL phase. All monkeys were trained on two cognitive tasks: reversal learning, involving simple discrimination (SD) and reversal (SDR), which measured associative learning and behavioral flexibility, respectively (n = 3-4 per phase) and a delayed match-to-sample (DMS) task which assessed working memory (n = 11). P4 concentrations were positively correlated with number of trials and errors during acquisition of SD performance, but not during acquisition of the SDR task or maintenance of the reversal-learning task. Across the menstrual cycle, significantly fewer errors were made in the SDR task during the LF phase, when E2 concentrations were high and P4 concentrations low. Working memory, assessed with the DMS task, was not consistently altered based on previously characterized menstrual cycle phases. These findings demonstrate a relationship between P4, E2 and cognitive performance in normally cycling cynomolgus monkeys that is task dependent. Knowledge of these interactions may lead to a better understanding of sex-specific cognitive performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Kromrey
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1083, United States
| | - Paul W Czoty
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1083, United States
| | - Michael A Nader
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1083, United States; Department of Radiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1083, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ransome MI. Could androgens maintain specific domains of mental health in aging men by preserving hippocampal neurogenesis? Neural Regen Res 2014; 7:2227-39. [PMID: 25538744 PMCID: PMC4268723 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.028.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Interest surrounds the role of sex-hormones in regulating brain function outside of reproductive behaviour. Declining androgen production in aging males has been associated with cognitive impairment, depression and increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Indication for testosterone replacement therapy is based on biochemically determined low circulating testosterone combined with manifest symptoms. However, which aspects of age-related cognitive decline are attributable to low circulating testosterone remain ambiguous. Studies examining cognition in aging men receiving testosterone replacement therapy have yielded equivocal results. The exact role of testosterone in maintaining cognitive function and the underlying neural mechanisms are largely unknown, though it would appear to be domain specific. Clarity in this area will provide clinical direction toward addressing an increasing healthcare burden of mental health decline coincident with increasing longevity. The premise that androgens contribute to maintaining aspects of mental health in aging men by preserving hippocampal neurogenesis will be used as a forum in this review to discuss current knowledge and the need for further studies to better define testosterone replacement strategies for aging male health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark I Ransome
- Florey Neurosciences Institute, Melbourne Brain Centre, the University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee RJ, Kim JK, Chao D, Kuo L, Mally A, McClean ME, Pemberton HE, Wilmington AR, Wong J, Murphy SP. Progesterone and allopregnanolone improves stroke outcome in male mice via distinct mechanisms but neither promotes neurogenesis. J Neurochem 2014; 132:32-7. [PMID: 25376903 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Based on the outcome of a number of experimental studies, progesterone (PROG) holds promise as a new therapy for stroke. To understand more about the mechanisms involved, we administered PROG (or the major metabolite, allopregnanolone, ALLO), intra-peritoneally, for a period of 24 h after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion to male mice variably expressing intracellular progesterone receptors (iPR) A/B. Effects on infarct volume and neurogenesis were then assessed up to 1 month later. Predictably, infarct volume in wild-type mice receiving either drug was significantly smaller. However, mice heterozygous for iPRs A/B showed protection by ALLO but not by PROG. There was robust amplification of cell division in the wall of the lateral ventricle on the injured side of the brain, these cells migrated into the striatum and lateral cortex, and a significant number survived for at least 3 weeks. However, very few doublecortin-positive cells emerged from the subventricular zone and subsequent expression of NeuN in these newborn neurons was extremely rare. Neither PROG nor ALLO amplified the rate of neurogenesis, suggesting that the long-term benefits of acute drug administration results from tissue preservation. Male mice derive long-lasting benefit from progesterone and allopregnanolone after ischemic stroke. In mice heterozygous for iPRs, only allopregnanolone proved effective, suggesting distinct mechanisms. Abundant newborn cells were found in the wall of the lateral ventricle on the injured side (many doublecortin-positive), some migrated into the striatum and lateral cortex, but very few survived as mature neurons. Neurosteroid administration did not amplify this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rona J Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sha S, Xu J, Lu ZH, Hong J, Qu WJ, Zhou JW, Chen L. Lack of JWA Enhances Neurogenesis and Long-Term Potentiation in Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus Leading to Spatial Cognitive Potentiation. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 53:355-368. [PMID: 25432888 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-9010-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
JWA (Arl6ip5), a homologous gene of glutamate-transporter-associated protein 3-18 (GTRAP3-18) and addicsin, is highly expressed in hippocampus. We generated systemic and neuronal JWA knockout (JWA-KO and JWA-nKO) mice to investigate the influence of JWA deficiency on spatial cognitive performance, process of neurogenesis, and induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG). In comparison with wild-type (WT) mice and JWA (loxP/loxP) (control of JWA-nKO) mice, 8-week-old JWA-KO mice and JWA-nKO mice showed spatial cognitive potentiation as assessed by Morris water maze test. In hippocampal DG of JWA-nKO mice, either survival and migration or neurite growth of newborn neurons were significantly enhanced without the changes in proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. In addition, the increase of LTP amplitude and the decline of LTP threshold were observed in DG, but not in CA1 region, of JWA-nKO mice compared to control mice. The levels of hippocampal FAK, Akt, and mTOR phosphorylation in JWA-nKO mice were higher than those in control mice. The PI3K or FAK inhibitor could abolish the enhanced neurogenesis and LTP induction in JWA-nKO mice, which was accompanied by disappearance of the spatial cognitive potentiation. The treatment of JWA-nKO mice with 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT), a telomerase inhibitor, suppressed not only the enhanced neurogenesis but also the enhanced LTP induction in DG, but it did not affect the LTP induction in CA1 region. The results suggest that the JWA deficiency through cascading FAK-PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway increases the newborn neurons and enhances the LTP induction in hippocampal DG, which leads to the spatial cognitive potentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sha Sha
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Zi-Hong Lu
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Juan Hong
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Wei-Jun Qu
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Jian-Wei Zhou
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
| | - Ling Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Hanzhong Road 140, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Arakawa K, Arakawa H, Hueston CM, Deak T. Effects of the estrous cycle and ovarian hormones on central expression of interleukin-1 evoked by stress in female rats. Neuroendocrinology 2014; 100:162-77. [PMID: 25300872 DOI: 10.1159/000368606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to stressors such as foot shock (FS) leads to increased expression of multiple inflammatory factors, including the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) in the brain. Studies have indicated that there are sex differences in stress reactivity, suggesting that the fluctuations in gonadal steroid levels across the estrous cycle may play a regulatory role in the stress-induced cytokine expression. The present studies were designed to investigate the role of 17-β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (Pg) in regulating the cytokine response within the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus through analysis of gene expression with real-time RT-PCR. Regularly cycling female rats showed a stress-induced increase in PVN IL-1 levels during the diestrous, proestrous, and estrous stages. During the metestrous stage, no change in IL-1 levels was seen following FS; however, estrogen receptor (ER)-β levels did increase. Ovariectomy resulted in an increase in PVN IL-1 levels, which was attenuated by treatment with estradiol benzoate (10 or 50 µg), indicating an E2-mediated anti-inflammatory effect. Ovariectomized rats treated with Pg (500 or 1,250 µg) showed no alteration in IL-1 levels, but Pg did up-regulate ER-β gene expression. The results from the current study implicate a potential mechanism through which high availability of endogenous Pg during the metestrous stage increases ER-β sensitivity, which in turn attenuates the PVN IL-1 response to stress. Thus, the interaction between gonadal steroid hormones and their central receptors may exert a powerful inhibitory effect on neuroimmune consequences of stress throughout the estrous cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Arakawa
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, N.Y., USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shi HS, Zhu WL, Liu JF, Luo YX, Si JJ, Wang SJ, Xue YX, Ding ZB, Shi J, Lu L. PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the basolateral amygdala mediates the rapid antidepressant-like effects of trefoil factor 3. Neuropsychopharmacology 2012; 37:2671-83. [PMID: 22828749 PMCID: PMC3473333 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2012.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Depression is one of the most common and debilitating psychiatric illnesses around the world, but the current antidepressants used to treat depression have many limitations. Progressively more studies have shown that neuropeptide systems are potential novel therapeutic targets for depression. However, whether the neuropeptide trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) participates in the development of depression has not been examined. In the current experiments, we assessed the antidepressant effects of TFF3 using the forced swim test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), and chronic mild stress (CMS) paradigm. Furthermore, we determined the mechanism that underlies the antidepressant-like effects of TFF3 in the rat FST. TFF3 dose-dependently reduced immobility time in both FST and TST. CMS elevated plasma TFF3 and decreased basolateral amygdala (BLA) TFF3 levels in rats, and acute TFF3 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) treatment reversed the depressive-like behaviors induced by CMS. Furthermore, TFF3 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased Fos expression in the BLA, medial prefrontal cortex, and hypothalamus in rats subjected to the FST. Intra-BLA infusions of TFF3 (1 ng/side) exerted rapid antidepressant-like effects in the rat FST. Additionally, acute systemic TFF3 administration increased the level of phosphorylated-Akt (p-Akt) in the BLA. Finally, intra-BLA infusions of LY294002 (5 mM/side), a specific phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, significantly blocked the antidepressant-like effect of TFF3. Our results demonstrated that TFF3 exerts antidepressant-like effects that might be mediated by the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the BLA. These findings suggest a novel neuropeptide system target in the development of new antidepressants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Shui Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China,Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wei-Li Zhu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, 38, Xue Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China, Tel: +86 10 82802456, Fax: +86 10 62032624, E-mail: (W-LZ) or (LL)
| | - Jian-Feng Liu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Xiao Luo
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ji-Jian Si
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shen-Jun Wang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Xue Xue
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zeng-Bo Ding
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Lu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Lab for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/Ministry of Health, Beijing, China,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, 38, Xue Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China, Tel: +86 10 82802456, Fax: +86 10 62032624, E-mail: (W-LZ) or (LL)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Orr PT, Rubin AJ, Fan L, Kent BA, Frick KM. The progesterone-induced enhancement of object recognition memory consolidation involves activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways in the dorsal hippocampus. Horm Behav 2012; 61:487-95. [PMID: 22265866 PMCID: PMC3401043 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although much recent work has elucidated the biochemical mechanisms underlying the modulation of memory by 17β-estradiol, little is known about the signaling events through which progesterone (P) regulates memory. We recently demonstrated that immediate post-training infusion of P into the dorsal hippocampus enhances object recognition memory consolidation in young ovariectomized female mice (Orr et al., 2009). The goal of the present study was to identify the biochemical alterations that might underlie this mnemonic enhancement. We hypothesized that the P-induced enhancement of object recognition would be dependent on activation of the ERK and mTOR pathways. In young ovariectomized mice, we found that bilateral dorsal hippocampal infusion of P significantly increased levels of phospho-p42 ERK and the mTOR substrate S6K in the dorsal hippocampus 5 min after infusion. Phospho-p42 ERK levels were downregulated 15 min after infusion and returned to baseline 30 min after infusion, suggesting a biphasic effect of P on ERK activation. Dorsal hippocampal ERK and mTOR activation were necessary for P to facilitate memory consolidation, as suggested by the fact that inhibitors of both pathways infused into the dorsal hippocampus immediately after training blocked the P-induced enhancement of object recognition. Collectively, these data provide the first demonstration that the ability of P to enhance memory consolidation depends on the rapid activation of cell signaling and protein synthesis pathways in the dorsal hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T. Orr
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Amanda J. Rubin
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Lu Fan
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Brianne A. Kent
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Karyn M. Frick
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee WI 53211
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bali N, Arimoto JM, Iwata N, Lin SW, Zhao L, Brinton RD, Morgan TE, Finch CE. Differential responses of progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (Pgrmc1) and the classical progesterone receptor (Pgr) to 17β-estradiol and progesterone in hippocampal subregions that support synaptic remodeling and neurogenesis. Endocrinology 2012; 153:759-69. [PMID: 22147012 PMCID: PMC3275384 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-1699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) modulate neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling in the hippocampus during the rat estrous cycle and in response to deafferenting lesions, but little is known about the steroidal regulation of hippocampal progesterone receptors associated with these processes. We examined the neuronal expression of progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (Pgrmc1) and the classical progesterone receptor (Pgr), by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Pgr, a transcription factor, has been associated with synaptic remodeling and other major actions of P4, whereas Pgrmc1 is implicated in P4-dependent proliferation of adult neuroprogenitor cells and with rapid P4 effects on membranes. Ovariectomized adult rats were given E2, P4, or E2+P4 on two schedules: a 4-d model of the rodent estrous cycle and a 30-d model of postmenopausal hormone therapy. Pgr was hormonally responsive only in CA1 pyramidal neurons, and the induction of Pgr by E2 was partly antagonized by P4 only on the 30-d schedule. In CA3 pyramidal and dentate gyrus (DG) neurons, Pgr was largely unresponsive to all hormone treatments. In contrast to Pgr, Pgrmc1 was generally induced by E2 and/or P4 throughout the hippocampus in CA1, CA3, and DG neurons. In neuroprogenitor cells of the DG (immunopositive for bromodeoxyuridine and doublecortin), both Pgrmc1 and Pgr were detected. The differential regulation of hippocampal Pgrmc1 and Pgr by E2 and P4 may guide drug development in hormonal therapy for support of neurogenesis and synaptic regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Bali
- University of Southern California Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, California 90089-0191, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pinna G, Rasmusson AM. Up-regulation of neurosteroid biosynthesis as a pharmacological strategy to improve behavioural deficits in a putative mouse model of post-traumatic stress disorder. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:102-16. [PMID: 21981145 PMCID: PMC3245370 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02234.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines remain the most frequently used psychotropic drugs for the treatment of anxiety spectrum disorders; however, their use is associated with the development of tolerance and dependence. Another major hindrance is represented by their lack of efficacy in many patients, including patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For these nonresponders, the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) has been the therapy of choice. In the past decade, clinical studies have suggested that the pharmacological action of SSRIs may include the ability of these drugs to normalise decreased brain levels of neurosteroids in patients with depression and PTSD; in particular, the progesterone derivative allopregnanolone, which potently, positively and allosterically modulates the action of GABA at GABA(A) receptors. Preclinical studies using the socially-isolated mouse as an animal model of PTSD have demonstrated that fluoxetine and congeners ameliorate anxiety-like behaviour, fear responses and aggressive behaviour expressed by such mice by increasing corticolimbic levels of allopregnanolone. This is a novel and more selective mechanism than serotonin reuptake inhibition, which, for half a century, has been considered to be the main molecular mechanism for the therapeutic action of SSRIs. Importantly, this finding may shed light on the high rates of SSRI resistance among patients with PTSD and depression, comprising disorders in which there appears to be a block in allopregnanolone synthesis. There are several different mechanisms by which such a block may occur, and SSRIs may only be corrective under some conditions. Thus, the up-regulation of allopregnanolone biosynthesis in corticolimbic neurones may offer a novel nontraditional pharmacological target for a new generation of potent nonsedating, anxiolytic medications for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and PTSD: selective brain steroidogenic stimulants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Graziano Pinna
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Diotel N, Servili A, Gueguen MM, Mironov S, Pellegrini E, Vaillant C, Zhu Y, Kah O, Anglade I. Nuclear progesterone receptors are up-regulated by estrogens in neurons and radial glial progenitors in the brain of zebrafish. PLoS One 2011; 6:e28375. [PMID: 22140581 PMCID: PMC3227669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0028375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In rodents, there is increasing evidence that nuclear progesterone receptors are transiently expressed in many regions of the developing brain, notably outside the hypothalamus. This suggests that progesterone and/or its metabolites could be involved in functions not related to reproduction, particularly in neurodevelopment. In this context, the adult fish brain is of particular interest, as it exhibits constant growth and high neurogenic activity that is supported by radial glia progenitors. However, although synthesis of neuroprogestagens has been documented recently in the brain of zebrafish, information on the presence of progesterone receptors is very limited. In zebrafish, a single nuclear progesterone receptor (pgr) has been cloned and characterized. Here, we demonstrate that this pgr is widely distributed in all regions of the zebrafish brain. Interestingly, we show that Pgr is strongly expressed in radial glial cells and more weakly in neurons. Finally, we present evidence, based on quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry, that nuclear progesterone receptor mRNA and proteins are upregulated by estrogens in the brain of adult zebrafish. These data document for the first time the finding that radial glial cells are preferential targets for peripheral progestagens and/or neuroprogestagens. Given the crucial roles of radial glial cells in adult neurogenesis, the potential effects of progestagens on their activity and the fate of daughter cells require thorough investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Diotel
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | - Arianna Servili
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | | | - Svetlana Mironov
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | - Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | - Colette Vaillant
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Olivier Kah
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Isabelle Anglade
- Neurogenesis and Oestrogens, UMR CNRS 6026, IFR140, Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Nin MS, Martinez LA, Pibiri F, Nelson M, Pinna G. Neurosteroids reduce social isolation-induced behavioral deficits: a proposed link with neurosteroid-mediated upregulation of BDNF expression. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2011; 2:73. [PMID: 22649384 PMCID: PMC3355888 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2011.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pharmacological action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants may include a normalization of the decreased brain levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and of neurosteroids such as the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, which are decreased in patients with depression and posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD). The allopregnanolone and BDNF level decrease in PTSD and depressed patients is associated with behavioral symptom severity. Antidepressant treatment upregulates both allopregnanolone levels and the expression of BDNF in a manner that significantly correlates with improved symptomatology, which suggests that neurosteroid biosynthesis and BDNF expression may be interrelated. Preclinical studies using the socially isolated mouse as an animal model of behavioral deficits, which resemble some of the symptoms observed in PTSD patients, have shown that fluoxetine and derivatives improve anxiety-like behavior, fear responses and aggressive behavior by elevating the corticolimbic levels of allopregnanolone and BDNF mRNA expression. These actions appeared to be independent and more selective than the action of these drugs on serotonin reuptake inhibition. Hence, this review addresses the hypothesis that in PTSD or depressed patients, brain allopregnanolone levels, and BDNF expression upregulation may be mechanisms at least partially involved in the beneficial actions of antidepressants or other selective brain steroidogenic stimulant molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Schüler Nin
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL, USA
- Coordenadoria de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior Foundation, Ministry of Education of BrazilBrasilia, Brazil
| | - Luis A. Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL, USA
| | - Fabio Pibiri
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL, USA
| | - Marianela Nelson
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Noorbakhsh F, Ellestad KK, Maingat F, Warren KG, Han MH, Steinman L, Baker GB, Power C. Impaired neurosteroid synthesis in multiple sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 134:2703-21. [PMID: 21908875 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
High-throughput technologies have led to advances in the recognition of disease pathways and their underlying mechanisms. To investigate the impact of micro-RNAs on the disease process in multiple sclerosis, a prototypic inflammatory neurological disorder, we examined cerebral white matter from patients with or without the disease by micro-RNA profiling, together with confirmatory reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis, immunoblotting and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. These observations were verified using the in vivo multiple sclerosis model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Brains of patients with or without multiple sclerosis demonstrated differential expression of multiple micro-RNAs, but expression of three neurosteroid synthesis enzyme-specific micro-RNAs (miR-338, miR-155 and miR-491) showed a bias towards induction in patients with multiple sclerosis (P < 0.05). Analysis of the neurosteroidogenic pathways targeted by micro-RNAs revealed suppression of enzyme transcript and protein levels in the white matter of patients with multiple sclerosis (P < 0.05). This was confirmed by firefly/Renilla luciferase micro-RNA target knockdown experiments (P < 0.05) and detection of specific micro-RNAs by in situ hybridization in the brains of patients with or without multiple sclerosis. Levels of important neurosteroids, including allopregnanolone, were suppressed in the white matter of patients with multiple sclerosis (P < 0.05). Induction of the murine micro-RNAs, miR-338 and miR-155, accompanied by diminished expression of neurosteroidogenic enzymes and allopregnanolone, was also observed in the brains of mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (P < 0.05). Allopregnanolone treatment of the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mouse model limited the associated neuropathology, including neuroinflammation, myelin and axonal injury and reduced neurobehavioral deficits (P < 0.05). These multi-platform studies point to impaired neurosteroidogenesis in both multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. The findings also indicate that allopregnanolone and perhaps other neurosteroid-like compounds might represent potential biomarkers or therapies for multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farshid Noorbakhsh
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), 6-11 Heritage Medical Research Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Oboti L, Peretto P, Marchis SD, Fasolo A. From chemical neuroanatomy to an understanding of the olfactory system. Eur J Histochem 2011; 55:e35. [PMID: 22297441 PMCID: PMC3284237 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2011.e35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The olfactory system is the appropriate model for studying several aspects of neuronal physiology spanning from the developmental stage to neural network remodelling in the adult brain. Both the morphological and physiological understanding of this system were strongly supported by classical histochemistry. It is emblematic the case of the Olfactory Marker Protein (OMP) staining, the first, powerful marker for fully differentiated olfactory receptor neurons and a key tool to investigate the dynamic relations between peripheral sensory epithelia and central relay regions given its presence within olfactory fibers reaching the olfactory bulb (OB). Similarly, the use of thymidine analogues was able to show neurogenesis in an adult mammalian brain far before modern virus labelling and lipophilic tracers based methods. Nowadays, a wealth of new histochemical techniques combining cell and molecular biology approaches is available, giving stance to move from the analysis of the chemically identified circuitries to functional research. The study of adult neurogenesis is indeed one of the best explanatory examples of this statement. After defining the cell types involved and the basic physiology of this phenomenon in the OB plasticity, we can now analyze the role of neurogenesis in well testable behaviours related to socio-chemical communication in rodents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Oboti
- Department of Animal and Human Biology, University of Turin, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Spritzer MD, Ibler E, Inglis W, Curtis MG. Testosterone and social isolation influence adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of male rats. Neuroscience 2011; 195:180-90. [PMID: 21875652 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2011] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone has been previously shown to enhance adult neurogenesis within the dentate gyrus of adult male rats, whereas social isolation has been shown to cause a decrease in adult neurogenesis under some conditions. The current study tested the combined effects of testosterone and social isolation upon adult neurogenesis using two experiments involving adult male rats. For both experiments, half of the subjects were pair-housed and half were housed individually for the duration of the experiments (34 days). For experiment 1, the subjects were divided into four groups (n=8/group): (1) sham/pair-housed, (2) sham/isolated, (3) castrate/pair-housed, and (4) castrate/isolated. Rats in the castrate groups were bilaterally castrated, and rats in the sham groups were sham castrated. For experiment 2, all rats were castrated, and the effects of testosterone were tested using daily injections of testosterone propionate (0.500 mg/rat for 15 days) or the oil vehicle. Subjects were divided into four groups (n=8/group): (1) oil/pair-housed, (2) oil/isolated, (3) testosterone/pair-housed, and (4) testosterone/isolated. All rats were injected with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU, 200 mg/kg body mass), and immunohistochemistry was used to determine levels of neurogenesis following a 16-day cell survival period. For experiment 1, castrated subjects had significantly fewer BrdU-labeled cells along the granule cell layer and subgranular zone (GCL+SGZ) of the dentate gyrus than did intact subjects, and this effect was mainly due to low levels of neurogenesis in the castrate/isolated group. For experiment 2, social isolation caused a significant decrease in neurogenesis within the GCL+SGZ relative to the pair-housed groups. Testosterone injections did not buffer against this effect but instead tended to cause a decrease in neurogenesis. Thus, social isolation reduced hippocampal neurogenesis, but the effects of testosterone were inconsistent. This suggests that normal circulating levels of testosterone may buffer against the neurogenesis-impairing effects of isolation, whereas high doses of testosterone do not.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M D Spritzer
- Department of Biology, Middlebury College, McCardell Bicentennial Hall, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Progesterone treatment normalizes the levels of cell proliferation and cell death in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus after traumatic brain injury. Exp Neurol 2011; 231:72-81. [PMID: 21684276 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases cell death in the hippocampus and impairs hippocampus-dependent cognition. The hippocampus is also the site of ongoing neurogenesis throughout the lifespan. Progesterone treatment improves behavioral recovery and reduces inflammation, apoptosis, lesion volume, and edema, when given after TBI. The aim of the present study was to determine whether progesterone altered cell proliferation and short-term survival in the dentate gyrus after TBI. Male Sprague-Dawley rats with bilateral contusions of the frontal cortex or sham operations received progesterone or vehicle at 1 and 6 h post-surgery and daily through post-surgery Day 7, and a single injection of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) 48 h after injury. Brains were then processed for Ki67 (endogenous marker of cell proliferation), BrdU (short-term cell survival), doublecortin (endogenous marker of immature neurons), and Fluoro-Jade B (marker of degenerating neurons). TBI increased cell proliferation compared to shams and progesterone normalized cell proliferation in injured rats. Progesterone alone increased cell proliferation in intact rats. Interestingly, injury and/or progesterone treatment did not influence short-term cell survival of BrdU-ir cells. All treatments increased the percentage of BrdU-ir cells that were co-labeled with doublecortin (an immature neuronal marker in this case labeling new neurons that survived 5 days), indicating that cell fate is influenced independently by TBI and progesterone treatment. The number of immature neurons that survived 5 days was increased following TBI, but progesterone treatment reduced this effect. Furthermore, TBI increased cell death and progesterone treatment reduced cell death to levels seen in intact rats. Together these findings suggest that progesterone treatment after TBI normalizes the levels of cell proliferation and cell death in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus.
Collapse
|
32
|
Paris JJ, Walf AA, Frye CA. II. Cognitive performance of middle-aged female rats is influenced by capacity to metabolize progesterone in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Brain Res 2010; 1379:149-63. [PMID: 21044614 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.10.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2010] [Revised: 10/20/2010] [Accepted: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive decline can occur with aging; however, some individuals experience less cognitive decline than do others. Secretion of ovarian hormones is reduced post-menopause and may contribute to cognitive function. The extent to which hormonal effects may be parsed out from other age-related factors to influence cognition is of interest. Middle-aged (12-month-old) female rats that were retired breeders were categorized as maintaining or declining reproductive function based upon their estrous cyclicity (regular 4-5 day cycles), fertility (> 60 % successful pregnancy), and fecundity (>10 pups/litter). Performance in object recognition, Y-maze, water maze, inhibitory avoidance, and contextual-cued fear conditioning was evaluated. Estradiol, progesterone (P(4)), dihydroprogesterone, and 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP) were assessed in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus; corticosterone was assessed in plasma. Rats maintaining reproductive function performed significantly better on the object recognition, Y-maze, water maze, inhibitory avoidance, and cued fear conditioning tasks than did rats with declining reproductive function. Steroid concentrations varied greatly within groups. Higher levels of P(4) in mPFC and hippocampus were associated with better Y-maze performance. In mPFC, higher levels of P(4) were associated with poorer inhibitory avoidance performance; greater levels of 3α,5α-THP were associated with better object memory. Neither estradiol nor corticosterone levels significantly contributed to cognitive performance. Thus, the capacity for cortico-limbic P(4) utilization may influence cognitive performance in aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason J Paris
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, New York 12222, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Treatment with progesterone after focal cerebral ischemia suppresses proliferation of progenitor cells but enhances survival of newborn neurons in adult male mice. Neuropharmacology 2010; 58:930-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2010.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2009] [Revised: 12/22/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|