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Sbrini G, Mutti V, Bono F, Tomasoni Z, Fadel D, Missale C, Fiorentini C. 17-β-estradiol potentiates the neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects mediated by the dopamine D3/acetylcholine nicotinic receptor heteromer in dopaminergic neurons. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 976:176678. [PMID: 38821163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Dopaminergic neurons express a heteromer composed of the dopamine D3 receptor and the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, the D3R-nAChR heteromer, activated by both nicotine and dopamine D2 and D3 receptors agonists, such as quinpirole, and crucial for dopaminergic neuron homeostasis. We now report that D3R-nAChR heteromer activity is potentiated by 17-β-estradiol which acts as a positive allosteric modulator by binding a specific domain on the α4 subunit of the nicotinic receptor protomer. In mouse dopaminergic neurons, in fact, 17-β-estradiol significantly increased the ability of nicotine and quinpirole in promoting neuron dendritic remodeling and in protecting neurons against the accumulation of α-synuclein induced by deprivation of glucose, with a mechanism that does not involve the classical estrogen receptors. The potentiation induced by 17-β-estradiol required the D3R-nAChR heteromer since either nicotinic receptor or dopamine D3 receptor antagonists and interfering TAT-peptides, but not the estrogen receptor antagonist fulvestrant, specifically prevented 17-β-estradiol effects. Evidence of estrogens neuroprotection, mainly mediated by genomic mechanisms, have been provided, which is in line with epidemiological data reporting that females are less likely to develop Parkinson's Disease than males. Therefore, potentiation of D3R-nAChR heteromer activity may represent a further mechanism by which 17-β-estradiol reduces dopaminergic neuron vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Sbrini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Veronica Mutti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Federica Bono
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Zaira Tomasoni
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Dounia Fadel
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristina Missale
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Fiorentini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Neuroactive steroids and Parkinson's disease: Review of human and animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 156:105479. [PMID: 38007170 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The greater prevalence and incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD) in men suggest a beneficial effect of sex hormones. Neuroactive steroids have neuroprotective activities thus offering interesting option for disease-modifying therapy for PD. Neuroactive steroids are also neuromodulators of neurotransmitter systems and may thus help to control PD symptoms and side effect of dopamine medication. Here, we review the effect on sex hormones (estrogen, androgen, progesterone and its metabolites) as well as androstenediol, pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone) in human studies and in animal models of PD. The effect of neuroactive steroids is reviewed by considering sex and hormonal status to help identify specifically for women and men with PD what might be a preventive approach or a symptomatic treatment. PD is a complex disease and the pathogenesis likely involves multiple cellular processes. Thus it might be useful to target different cellular mechanisms that contribute to neuronal loss and neuroactive steroids provide therapeutics options as they have multiple mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
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3
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Amirkhosravi L, khaksari M, Amiresmaili S, Sanjari M, Khorasani P, Hashemian M. Evaluating the neuroprotective effects of progesterone receptors on experimental traumatic brain injury: The PI3K/Akt pathway. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3244. [PMID: 37661235 PMCID: PMC10636406 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have confirmed the salutary effects of progesterone (P4) on traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study investigated the beneficial effects of P4 via its receptors on TBI, and also whether progesterone receptors (PRs) can modulate TBI through PI3K/Akt pathway. MATERIAL AND METHODS Marmarou method was utilized to induce diffuse TBI in ovariectomized rats. P4 (1.7 mg/kg) or the vehicle (oil) was administered 30 min after TBI induction. Moreover, RU486 (PR antagonist) and its vehicle (DMSO) were injected before TBI induction and P4 injection. Brain Evans blue content, brain water content (WC), various oxidative stress parameters, IL-1β levels, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), histopathological alterations, and also phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) and PI3K expressions in the brain were assessed 24 h after TBI. The veterinary comma scale (VCS) was measured before and after TBI at different times. RESULTS The findings revealed that P4 caused an increase in VCS and a decrease in brain WC, oxidative stress, TNF-α and IL-1β levels. RU486 inhibited the beneficial effects of P4 on these indices. Moreover, RU486 prevented the reduction of brain edema, inflammation, and apoptosis caused by P4. Moreover, P4 following TBI increased the expression of PI3K/p-Akt protein in the brain. RU486 eliminated the effects of P4 on PI3K/p-Akt expression. CONCLUSION According to these findings, PRs are acting as critical mediators for the neuroprotective properties of P4 on oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and neurological outcomes. PRs also play an important role in regulating the PI3K/p-Akt expression and nongenomic function of P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research CenterInstitute of Basic and Clinical Physiology SciencesKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Mohammad khaksari
- Physiology Research CenterInstitute of NeuropharmacologyKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | | | - Mojgan Sanjari
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research CenterInstitute of Basic and Clinical Physiology SciencesKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Parisa Khorasani
- Department of Pathology, Pathology, and Stem Cells Research Center, Afzalipour Medical FacultyKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Morteza Hashemian
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of NeuropharmacologyKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
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4
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Gomez-Perales EL, Brake WG. The role of progesterone in memory bias during spatial navigation in females. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13197. [PMID: 36165431 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rats can use several memory systems to navigate a maze toward a reward. Two of these are place memory and response memory and female rats can be biased to predominantly use one over another. Both progesterone and estrogens have been shown to alter memory bias. Although the effects of estrogens have been well documented, the effects of progesterone remain somewhat unexplored. Mechanisms through which progesterone may be acting to exert its effects are reviewed here. Converging evidence suggests that the actions of progesterone differ depending on the presence of estrogens, frequently acting in opposition to estrogens when administered together. The hippocampus, dorsal striatum, and prefrontal cortex are likely involved, as is the progesterone metabolite, allopregnanolone. There is a need for more research on progesterone and memory bias, especially considering current formulations of hormonal contraceptives include progestins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn L Gomez-Perales
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Wayne G Brake
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Zamora-Sánchez CJ, Hernández-Vega AM, Gaona-Domínguez S, Rodríguez-Dorantes M, Camacho-Arroyo I. 5alpha-dihydroprogesterone promotes proliferation and migration of human glioblastoma cells. Steroids 2020; 163:108708. [PMID: 32730775 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2020.108708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBMs) are the most common and deadliest intracranial tumors. Steroid hormones, such as progesterone (P4), at physiological concentrations, promote proliferation, and migration of human GBM cells in vivo and in vitro. Neuronal and glial cells, but also GBMs, metabolize P4 and synthesize different active metabolites such as 5α-dihydroprogesterone (5α-DHP). However, their contribution to GBM malignancy remains unknown. Here, we determined the 5α-DHP effects on the number of cells, proliferation, and migration of the U87 and U251 human GBM-derived cell lines. Of the tested concentrations (1 nM-1 µM), 5α-DHP 10 nM significantly increased the number of U87 and U251 cells from day 2 of treatment, and proliferation (at day 3) in a similar manner as P4 (10 nM). The treatment with the progesterone receptor (PR) antagonist RU486 (mifepristone), blocked the effects of 5α-DHP on the number of cells and proliferation. Besides, in U251 and LN229 GBM cells, 5α-DHP promoted cell migration (from 12 to 24 h). We also determined that GBM cells expressed the 3α-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductases (3α-HSOR), which reversibly reduce 5α-DHP to allopregnanolone (3α-THP). These data indicate that 5α-DHP induces proliferation and migration of human GBM through the activation of PR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen J Zamora-Sánchez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico
| | - Ana M Hernández-Vega
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico
| | - Saúl Gaona-Domínguez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico
| | - Mauricio Rodríguez-Dorantes
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Periférico Sur No. 4809, Col. Arenal Tepepan, Delegación Tlalpan, C.P. 14610 Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico.
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico.
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Progesterone Protects Prefrontal Cortex in Rat Model of Permanent Bilateral Common Carotid Occlusion via Progesterone Receptors and Akt/Erk/eNOS. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2019; 40:829-843. [PMID: 31865501 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-019-00777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Sustained activation of pro-apoptotic signaling due to a sudden and prolonged disturbance of cerebral blood circulation governs the neurodegenerative processes in prefrontal cortex (PFC) of rats whose common carotid arteries are permanently occluded. The adequate neuroprotective therapy should minimize the activation of toxicity pathways and increase the activity of endogenous protective mechanisms. Several neuroprotectants have been proposed, including progesterone (P4). However, the underlying mechanism of its action in PFC following permanent bilateral occlusion of common carotid arteries is not completely investigated. We, thus herein, tested the impact of post-ischemic P4 treatment (1.7 mg/kg for seven consecutive days) on previously reported aberrant neuronal morphology and amount of DNA fragmentation, as well as the expression of progesterone receptors along with the key elements of Akt/Erk/eNOS signal transduction pathway (Bax, Bcl-2, cytochrome C, caspase 3, PARP, and the level of nitric oxide). The obtained results indicate that potential amelioration of histological changes in PFC might be associated with the absence of activation of Bax/caspase 3 signaling cascade and the decline of DNA fragmentation. The study also provides the evidence that P4 treatment in repeated regiment of administration might be effective in neuronal protection against ischemic insult due to re-establishment of the compromised action of Akt/Erk/eNOS-mediated signaling pathway and the upregulation of progesterone receptors.
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7
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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.
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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
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8
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Fabres RB, da Rosa LA, de Souza SK, Cecconello AL, Azambuja AS, Sanches EF, Ribeiro MFM, de Fraga LS. Effects of progesterone on the neonatal brain following hypoxia-ischemia. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:813-821. [PMID: 29363039 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-018-0193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone displays a strong potential for the treatment of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy since it has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of the central nervous system injuries in adult animals. Here, we evaluated the effects of the administration of progesterone (10 mg/kg) in seven-days-old male Wistar rats submitted to neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI). Progesterone was administered immediately before ischemia and/or 6 and 24 h after the onset of hypoxia. The body weight of the animals, the volume of brain lesion and the expression of p-Akt and procaspase-3 in the hippocampus were evaluated. All animals submitted to HI showed a reduction in the body weight. However, this reduction was more remarkable in those animals which received progesterone before surgery. Administration of progesterone was unable to reduce the volume of brain damage caused by HI. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the expression of p-Akt and procaspase-3 in animals submitted to HI and treated with either progesterone or vehicle. In summary, progesterone did not show a neuroprotective effect on the volume of brain lesion in neonatal rats submitted to hypoxia-ischemia. Furthermore, progesterone was unable to modulate p-Akt and procaspase-3 signaling pathways, which may explain the absence of neuroprotection. On the other hand, it seems that administration of progesterone before ischemia exerts some systemic effect, leading to a remarkable reduction in the body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Bandeira Fabres
- Laboratory of Neurohumoral Interaction, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Laboratory of Comparative Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Ramiro Barcelos, 2350, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Luciana Abreu da Rosa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Samir Khal de Souza
- Laboratory of Comparative Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Ana Lucia Cecconello
- Laboratory of Neurohumoral Interaction, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Amanda Stapenhorst Azambuja
- Laboratory of Neurohumoral Interaction, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Farias Sanches
- Laboratory of Cerebral Ischemia, Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Ramiro Barcelos, 2600, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Flavia Marques Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Neurohumoral Interaction, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Luciano Stürmer de Fraga
- Laboratory of Comparative Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil.
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Ramiro Barcelos, 2350, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-903, Brazil.
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Repurposing sex steroids and related drugs as potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. Neuropharmacology 2018; 147:37-54. [PMID: 29649433 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder for which a greater prevalence and incidence is described in men. This suggests a protective effect of sex hormones in the brain. Therefore, steroids and drugs to treat endocrine conditions could have additional application for PD. Here, we review the protective effect of sex hormones, particularly estrogens, progesterone, androgens and dehydroepiandrosterone, in animal models of PD and also in human studies. Data also support that drugs affecting estrogen neurotransmission such as selective estrogen receptor modulators or affecting steroid metabolism with 5α-reductase inhibitors could be repositioned for treatment of PD. Sex steroids are also modulator of neurotransmission, thus they could repurposed to treat PD motor symptoms and to modulate the response to PD medication. No drug is yet available to limit PD progression. PD is a complex disease implicating multiple pathological processes and a therapeutic strategy using drugs with several mechanisms of action, such as sex steroids and endocrine drugs are interesting repositioning options for symptomatic treatment and disease-modifying activity for PD. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Drug Repurposing: old molecules, new ways to fast track drug discovery and development for CNS disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, G1K 7P4, Canada.
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10
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Muñoz-Mayorga D, Guerra-Araiza C, Torner L, Morales T. Tau Phosphorylation in Female Neurodegeneration: Role of Estrogens, Progesterone, and Prolactin. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:133. [PMID: 29643836 PMCID: PMC5882780 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences are important to consider when studying different psychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). These disorders can be affected by dimorphic changes in the central nervous system and be influenced by sex-specific hormones and neuroactive steroids. In fact, AD is more prevalent in women than in men. One of the main characteristics of AD is the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, composed of the phosphoprotein Tau, and neuronal loss in specific brain regions. The scope of this work is to review the existing evidence on how a set of hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin) affect tau phosphorylation in the brain of females under both physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Muñoz-Mayorga
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Christian Guerra-Araiza
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luz Torner
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Michoacán, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Teresa Morales
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Teresa Morales,
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Litim N, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Effects of progesterone administered after MPTP on dopaminergic neurons of male mice. Neuropharmacology 2017; 117:209-218. [PMID: 28192111 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone neuroprotection of striatal dopamine (DA) in male mice lesioned with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) was previously reported when administered before MPTP or an hour after. A dose of MPTP to induce a partial lesion was used to model early stages or prodromal Parkinson. We hypothesized that brain DA can be restored by progesterone administered early (24 h) or later (5 days) after MPTP. Male mice received 4 injections of MPTP (8 mg/kg) and progesterone (8 mg/kg) once daily for 5 days started 24 h or 5 days after MPTP. The lesion decreased striatal DA and its metabolites but not serotonin contents. MPTP mice treated with progesterone starting 24 h but not 5 days after MPTP had higher striatal DA and its metabolites content than vehicle-treated MPTP mice. Striatal DA transporter (DAT) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) specific binding decreased in lesioned mice and were corrected with progesterone treatment starting 24 h but not 5 days after MPTP. Striatal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels, a marker of activated astrocytes, were elevated by the MPTP lesion and were corrected with progesterone treatment starting 24 h after MPTP. Striatal brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels were decreased by the MPTP lesion and were prevented by progesterone treatments whereas no change of Akt, GSK3β, ERK1 and 2 and their phosphorylated forms were observed. Thus, progesterone administered after MPTP in mice protected dopaminergic neurons through modulation of neuroinflammation and BDNF. In humans, progesterone could possibly be used as a disease-modifying drug in prodromal Parkinson.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadhir Litim
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada.
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Neri-Gómez T, Espinosa-Raya J, Díaz-Cintra S, Segura-Uribe J, Orozco-Suárez S, Gallardo JM, Guerra-Araiza C. Tibolone modulates neuronal plasticity through regulating Tau, GSK3β/Akt/PI3K pathway and CDK5 p35/p25 complexes in the hippocampus of aged male mice. Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:588-595. [PMID: 28553339 PMCID: PMC5436357 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.205098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is a key risk factor for cognitive decline and age-related neurodegenerative disorders. Also, an age-related decrease in sex steroid hormones may have a negative impact on the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs); these hormones can regulate Tau phosphorylation and the principal kinase GSK3β involved in this process. Hormone replacement therapy decreases NFTs, but it increases the risk of some types of cancer. However, other synthetic hormones such as tibolone (TIB) have been used for hormone replacement therapy. The aim of this work was to evaluate the long-term effects of TIB (0.01 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg, intragastrically for 12 weeks) on the content of total and hyperphosphorylated Tau (PHF-1) proteins and the regulation of GSK3β/Akt/PI3K pathway and CDK5/p35/p25 complexes in the hippocampus of aged male mice. We observed that the content of PHF-1 decreased with TIB administration. In contrast, no changes were observed in the active form of GSK3β or PI3K. TIB decreased the expression of the total and phosphorylated form of Akt while increased that of p110 and p85. The content of CDK5 was differentially modified with TIB: it was increased at low doses and decreased at high doses. When we analyzed the content of CDK5 activators, an increase was found on p35; however, the content of p25 decreased with administration of low dose of TIB. Our results suggest a possible mechanism of action of TIB in the hippocampus of aged male mice. Through the regulation of Tau and GSK3β/Akt/PI3K pathway, and CDK5/p35/p25 complexes, TIB may modulate neuronal plasticity and regulate learning and memory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Neri-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, México.,Laboratorio de Farmacología Conductual, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón Col. Sto. Tomás, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Judith Espinosa-Raya
- Laboratorio de Farmacología Conductual, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón Col. Sto. Tomás, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Sofía Díaz-Cintra
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Querétaro, México
| | - Julia Segura-Uribe
- Enfermedades Neurológicas (Neurological Diseases), Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Sandra Orozco-Suárez
- Enfermedades Neurológicas (Neurological Diseases), Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Juan Manuel Gallardo
- Enfermedades Nefrológicas (Kidney Diseases), Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Medico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Christian Guerra-Araiza
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, México
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Al Sweidi S, Caruso D, Melcangi RC, Di Paolo T. Neuroprotective Effect of Progesterone in MPTP-Treated Male Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2016; 103:300-14. [PMID: 26227546 DOI: 10.1159/000438789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have reported on the neuroprotective activity of estradiol, whereas the effect of the other ovarian steroid, progesterone, is much less documented. METHODS This study sought to investigate neuroprotection with a low dose of progesterone (1 µg) in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated male mice to model Parkinson's disease and compare it to the effect of this steroid in intact mice (experiment 1). We also investigated if high doses of progesterone could protect dopaminergic neurons already exposed to MPTP (experiment 2). We measured progesterone effects on various dopaminergic markers [dopamine and its metabolites, dopamine transporter (DAT) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2)] and on neuroactive steroids in both plasma and the brain. RESULTS For experiment 1, our results showed that progesterone completely prevented the effect of MPTP toxicity on dopamine concentrations, on the increase in the 3-methoxytyramine/dopamine ratio, as well as on VMAT2-specific binding in the striatum and the substantia nigra. Progesterone decreased MPTP effects on 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid concentrations and DAT-specific binding in the lateral part of the anterior striatum and in the middle striatum (medial and lateral parts). Progesterone treatment of intact mice had no effect on the markers investigated. For experiment 2, measures of dopaminergic markers in the striatum showed that 8 mg/kg of progesterone was the most effective dose to reduce MPTP effects, and more limited effects were observed with 16 mg/kg. We found that progesterone treatment increases the levels of brain progesterone itself as well as of its metabolites. CONCLUSION Our result showed that progesterone has neuroprotective effects on dopaminergic neurons in MPTP-treated male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Qux00E9;bec, Centre Hospitalier de l'Universitx00E9; Laval, Quebec City, Que., Canada
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Hara Y, Waters EM, McEwen BS, Morrison JH. Estrogen Effects on Cognitive and Synaptic Health Over the Lifecourse. Physiol Rev 2015; 95:785-807. [PMID: 26109339 PMCID: PMC4491541 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00036.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen facilitates higher cognitive functions by exerting effects on brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Estrogen induces spinogenesis and synaptogenesis in these two brain regions and also initiates a complex set of signal transduction pathways via estrogen receptors (ERs). Along with the classical genomic effects mediated by activation of ER α and ER β, there are membrane-bound ER α, ER β, and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) that can mediate rapid nongenomic effects. All key ERs present throughout the body are also present in synapses of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. This review summarizes estrogen actions in the brain from the standpoint of their effects on synapse structure and function, noting also the synergistic role of progesterone. We first begin with a review of ER subtypes in the brain and how their abundance and distributions are altered with aging and estrogen loss (e.g., ovariectomy or menopause) in the rodent, monkey, and human brain. As there is much evidence that estrogen loss induced by menopause can exacerbate the effects of aging on cognitive functions, we then review the clinical trials of hormone replacement therapies and their effectiveness on cognitive symptoms experienced by women. Finally, we summarize studies carried out in nonhuman primate models of age- and menopause-related cognitive decline that are highly relevant for developing effective interventions for menopausal women. Together, we highlight a new understanding of how estrogen affects higher cognitive functions and synaptic health that go well beyond its effects on reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Hara
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Kastor Neurobiology of Aging Laboratories, Friedman Brain Institute, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Elizabeth M Waters
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Kastor Neurobiology of Aging Laboratories, Friedman Brain Institute, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Bruce S McEwen
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Kastor Neurobiology of Aging Laboratories, Friedman Brain Institute, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - John H Morrison
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Kastor Neurobiology of Aging Laboratories, Friedman Brain Institute, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
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Arbo BD, Andrade S, Osterkamp G, Gomez R, Ribeiro MF. Asymmetric effects of low doses of progesterone on GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit protein expression in the olfactory bulb of female rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 92:1045-9. [DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2014-0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of progesterone on the protein expression of α4 subunit of GABA(A) receptor, serotonin transporter (SERT), Akt, Erk, and caspase-3 in the olfactory bulb (OB) of female rats exposed to the forced swimming test (FST). Female rats were injected daily with progesterone (0.4 mg/kg body mass) or vehicle during 2 complete oestrous cycles and exposed to the FST, and the protein expression of GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit, SERT, Akt, Erk, and caspase-3 in the OB were evaluated. Progesterone increased the expression of the α4 subunit in the right OB and decreased its expression in the left OB, although it did not change the expression of other proteins. In summary, our findings indicate that progesterone has an asymmetric modulatory effect on the expression of GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit in the OB. This effect could be related to the antidepressant-like effect of progesterone in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno D. Arbo
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Department of Physiology, ICBS – Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Susie Andrade
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Department of Physiology, ICBS – Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Osterkamp
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Department of Physiology, ICBS – Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Rosane Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology, ICBS – Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Maria Flávia Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Department of Physiology, ICBS – Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
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Arbo BD, Andrade S, Osterkamp G, Gomez R, Ribeiro MFM. Effect of low doses of progesterone in the expression of the GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit and procaspase-3 in the hypothalamus of female rats. Endocrine 2014; 46:561-7. [PMID: 24366640 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-013-0126-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is a steroid which regulates neural function, thereby modulating neurotransmission, cell survival, and behavior. Previous studies by our group have shown that chronic administration of low doses of progesterone in diestrus II female rats has an antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test (FST). Depression is associated with the several neurotransmitters systems, including GABA and serotonin, and with neurodegeneration and cell death in some brain circuits. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of progesterone on the protein expression of the GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit, serotonin transporter (SERT), Akt, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk), and caspase-3 in the hypothalamus of diestrus II female rats exposed to the FST. Female rats were treated with a daily injection of progesterone (0.4 mg/kg) or vehicle, during two complete oestrous cycles. On the day of the experiment, the animals were euthanized 30 min after the FST, the hypothalamus was dissected and protein expression of GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit, SERT, Akt, Erk, and caspase-3 was evaluated. Progesterone increased the expression of GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit but did not change the expression of SERT. Progesterone decreased the expression of procaspase-3 in the hypothalamus without changing the activation of Akt and Erk in this structure. In summary, our results suggest that progesterone acts to increase the expression of the GABA(A) receptor α4 subunit and decrease the expression of procaspase-3 in the hypothalamus of female rats. Such effects may be involved in the antidepressant-like effect of progesterone in female rats exposed to the FST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno D Arbo
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Department of Physiology, ICBS-Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil,
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Melcangi RC, Giatti S, Calabrese D, Pesaresi M, Cermenati G, Mitro N, Viviani B, Garcia-Segura LM, Caruso D. Levels and actions of progesterone and its metabolites in the nervous system during physiological and pathological conditions. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 113:56-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Dorfman VB, Saucedo L, Di Giorgio NP, Inserra PIF, Fraunhoffer N, Leopardo NP, Halperín J, Lux-Lantos V, Vitullo AD. Variation in Progesterone Receptors and GnRH Expression in the Hypothalamus of the Pregnant South American Plains Vizcacha, Lagostomus maximus (Mammalia, Rodentia)1. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:115. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.107995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Frick KM. Building a better hormone therapy? How understanding the rapid effects of sex steroid hormones could lead to new therapeutics for age-related memory decline. Behav Neurosci 2012; 126:29-53. [PMID: 22289043 DOI: 10.1037/a0026660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A wealth of data collected in recent decades has demonstrated that ovarian sex-steroid hormones, particularly 17β-estradiol (E2), are important trophic factors that regulate the function of cognitive regions of the brain such as the hippocampus. The loss of hormone cycling at menopause is associated with cognitive decline and dementia in women, and the onset of memory decline in animal models. However, hormone therapy is not currently recommended to prevent or treat cognitive decline, in part because of its detrimental side effects. In this article, it is proposed that investigations of the rapid effects of E2 on hippocampal function be used to further the design of new drugs that mimic the beneficial effects of E2 on memory without the side effects of current therapies. A conceptual model is presented for elucidating the molecular and biochemical mechanisms through which sex-steroid hormones modulate memory, and a specific hypothesis is proposed to account for the rapid memory-enhancing effects of E2. Empirical support for this hypothesis is discussed as a means of stimulating the consideration of new directions for the development of hormone-based therapies to preserve memory function in menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 East Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA.
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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.
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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
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Ishrat T, Sayeed I, Atif F, Hua F, Stein DG. Progesterone is neuroprotective against ischemic brain injury through its effects on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Neuroscience 2012; 210:442-50. [PMID: 22450229 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Revised: 02/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway mediates some of the neuroprotective effects of progesterone (PROG) after ischemic stroke. We examined whether PROG acting through the PI3K/Akt pathway could affect the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Rats underwent permanent focal cerebral ischemia by electrocoagulation and received intraperitoneal injections of PROG (8 mg/kg) or vehicle at 1 h post-occlusion and subcutaneous injections at 6, 24, and 48 h. PAkt/Akt levels, apoptosis and apoptosis-related proteins (phosphorylated Bcl-2-associated death promoter (pBAD), BAD, caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3) were analyzed by TUNEL assays, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry at 24 h post-pMCAO. VEGF and BDNF were analyzed at 24, 72 h and 14 days post-pMCAO with Western blots. Following pMCAO, PROG treatment significantly (P<0.05) reduced ischemic lesion size and edema. Treatment with PROG significantly (P<0.05) decreased VEGF at 24 and 72 h but increased VEGF expression 14 days after injury. The treatment also increased BDNF, and attenuated apoptosis by increasing Akt phosphorylation compared with vehicle alone. The selective PI3K inhibitor wortmannin compromised PROG-induced neuroprotective effects and reduced the elevation of pAkt levels in the ischemic penumbra. Our findings lead us to suggest that the PI3K/Akt pathway can play a role in mediating the neuroprotective effects of PROG after stroke by altering the expression of trophic factors in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ishrat
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 B Clifton Road, Suite 5100, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Pinto-Almazán R, Calzada-Mendoza CC, Campos-Lara MG, Guerra-Araiza C. Effect of chronic administration of estradiol, progesterone, and tibolone on the expression and phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β and the microtubule-associated protein tau in the hippocampus and cerebellum of female rat. J Neurosci Res 2011; 90:878-86. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Revised: 08/25/2011] [Accepted: 09/01/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Amorim MAR, Guerra-Araiza C, Pernía O, da Cruz e Silva EF, Garcia-Segura LM. Progesterone regulates the phosphorylation of protein phosphatases in the brain. J Neurosci Res 2010; 88:2826-32. [PMID: 20568292 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that progesterone modulates the activity of different kinases and the phosphorylation of Tau in the brain. These actions of progesterone may be involved in the hormonal regulation of neuronal differentiation, neuronal function, and neuroprotection. However, the action of progesterone on protein phosphatases in the nervous system has not been explored previously. In this study we have assessed the effect of the administration of progesterone to adult ovariectomized rats on protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) in the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and the cerebellum. Total levels of PP2A, the state of methylation of PP2A, and total levels of PTEN were unaffected by the hormone in the three brain regions studied. In contrast, progesterone significantly increased the levels of PP2A phosphorylated in tyrosine 307 in the hippocampus and the cerebellum and significantly decreased the levels of PTEN phosphorylated in serine 380 in the hypothalamus and in the hippocampus compared with control values. Estradiol priming blocked the effect of progesterone on PP2A phosphorylation in the hippocampus and on PTEN phosphorylation in the hypothalamus and the hippocampus. In contrast, the action of progesterone on PP2A phosphorylation in the cerebellum was not modified by estradiol priming. These findings suggest that the regulation of the phosphorylation of PP2A and PTEN may be involved in the effects of progesterone on the phosphorylation of Tau and on the activity of phophoinositide-3 kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase in the brain.
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González-Flores O, Beyer C, Gómora-Arrati P, García-Juárez M, Lima-Hernández FJ, Soto-Sánchez A, Etgen AM. A role for Src kinase in progestin facilitation of estrous behavior in estradiol-primed female rats. Horm Behav 2010; 58:223-9. [PMID: 20307541 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2009] [Revised: 02/09/2010] [Accepted: 03/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study tested the hypothesis that the Src/Raf/MAPK signaling pathway is involved in the facilitation of the lordosis and proceptive behaviors induced by progesterone (P) and its ring A-reduced metabolites in ovariectomized, estradiol-primed rats. Intraventricular (icv) infusion of PP2 (7.5, 15 and 30 microg), a Src kinase inhibitor, significantly depressed P-dependent estrous behavior (lordosis and proceptivity) in estradiol-primed rats. Icv infusion of 30 microg of PP2 also significantly attenuated estrous behavior induced by the ring A-reduced P metabolites 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone (5 alpha-DHP) and 5 alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (allopregnanolone). PP2 did not inhibit estrous behavior induced by administration of high doses of estradiol alone to ovariectomized rats. We also assessed if the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is one of the neural sites at which progestins activate Src signaling to facilitate estrous behavior. Bilateral administration of 15 microg of PP2 into the VMH inhibited the stimulation of both lordosis and proceptive behaviors elicited by subcutaneous P administration to estradiol-primed rats. These results suggest that progestins act through Src/Raf/MAPK signaling to initiate estrous behaviors in estrogen-primed rats. This event is one component of the cellular pathways leading to the display of estrous behaviors induced by P and its ring A-reduced metabolites in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar González-Flores
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV. Apdo. 62, Tlaxcala, México.
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Estradiol-induced object memory consolidation in middle-aged female mice requires dorsal hippocampal extracellular signal-regulated kinase and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation. J Neurosci 2010; 30:4390-400. [PMID: 20335475 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4333-09.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that dorsal hippocampal extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation is necessary for 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) to enhance novel object recognition in young ovariectomized mice (Fernandez et al., 2008). Here, we asked whether E(2) has similar memory-enhancing effects in middle-aged and aged ovariectomized mice, and whether these effects depend on ERK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt activation. We first demonstrated that intracerebroventricular or intrahippocampal E(2) infusion immediately after object recognition training enhanced memory consolidation in middle-aged, but not aged, females. The E(2)-induced enhancement in middle-aged females was blocked by intrahippocampal inhibition of ERK or PI3K activation. Intrahippocampal or intracerebroventricular E(2) infusion in middle-aged females increased phosphorylation of p42 ERK in the dorsal hippocampus 15 min, but not 5 min, after infusion, an effect that was blocked by intrahippocampal inhibition of ERK or PI3K activation. Dorsal hippocampal PI3K and Akt phosphorylation was increased 5 min after intrahippocampal or intracerebroventricular E(2) infusion in middle-aged, but not aged, females. Intracerebroventricular E(2) infusion also increased PI3K phosphorylation after 15 min, and this effect was blocked by intrahippocampal PI3K, but not ERK, inhibition. These data demonstrate for the first time that activation of dorsal hippocampal PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling pathways is necessary for E(2) to enhance object recognition memory in middle-aged females. They also reveal that similar dorsal hippocampal signaling pathways mediate E(2)-induced object recognition memory enhancement in young and middle-aged females and that the inability of E(2) to activate these pathways may underlie its failure to enhance object recognition in aged females.
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Amorim MA, Guerra-Araiza C, Garcia-Segura LM. Progesterone as a regulator of phosphorylation in the central nervous system. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2010; 4:601-7. [DOI: 10.1515/hmbci.2010.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Accepted: 10/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractProgesterone exerts a variety of actions in the central nervous system under physiological and pathological conditions. As in other tissues, progesterone acts in the brain through classical progesterone receptors and through alternative mechanisms. Here, we review the role of progesterone as a regulator of kinases and phosphatases, such as extracellular-signal regulated kinases, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, Akt, glycogen synthase kinase 3, protein phosphatase 2A and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10. In addition, we analyzed the effects of progesterone on the phosphorylation of Tau, a protein that is involved in microtubule stabilization in neurons.
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Frick KM, Fernandez SM, Harburger LL. A new approach to understanding the molecular mechanisms through which estrogens affect cognition. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2009; 1800:1045-55. [PMID: 19913600 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2009.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2009] [Revised: 10/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2009] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Traditional approaches to the study of hormones and cognition have been primarily observational or correlational in nature. Because this work does not permit causal relationships to be identified, very little is known about the specific molecules and cellular events through which hormones affect cognitive function. In this review, we propose a new approach to study hormones and memory, where the systematic blocking of cellular events can reveal which such events are necessary for hormones to influence memory consolidation. The discussion will focus on the modulation of the hippocampus and hippocampal memory by estrogens, given the extensive literature on this subject, and will illustrate how the application of this approach is beginning to reveal important new information about the molecular mechanisms through which estrogens modulate memory consolidation. The clinical relevance of this work will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Cekic M, Sayeed I, Stein DG. Combination treatment with progesterone and vitamin D hormone may be more effective than monotherapy for nervous system injury and disease. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:158-72. [PMID: 19394357 PMCID: PMC3025702 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2009] [Revised: 04/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
More than two decades of pre-clinical research and two recent clinical trials have shown that progesterone (PROG) and its metabolites exert beneficial effects after traumatic brain injury (TBI) through a number of metabolic and physiological pathways that can reduce damage in many different tissues and organ systems. Emerging data on 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (VDH), itself a steroid hormone, have begun to provide evidence that, like PROG, it too is neuroprotective, although some of its actions may involve different pathways. Both agents have high safety profiles, act on many different injury and pathological mechanisms, and are clinically relevant, easy to administer, and inexpensive. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in a large segment of the population, especially the elderly and institutionalized, and can significantly affect recovery after CNS injury. The combination of PROG and VDH in pre-clinical and clinical studies is a novel and compelling approach to TBI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milos Cekic
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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De Nicola AF, Labombarda F, Gonzalez Deniselle MC, Gonzalez SL, Garay L, Meyer M, Gargiulo G, Guennoun R, Schumacher M. Progesterone neuroprotection in traumatic CNS injury and motoneuron degeneration. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:173-87. [PMID: 19318112 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2009] [Revised: 02/27/2009] [Accepted: 03/03/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the neuroprotective and promyelinating effects of progesterone in the nervous system are of great interest due to their potential clinical connotations. In peripheral neuropathies, progesterone and reduced derivatives promote remyelination, axonal regeneration and the recovery of function. In traumatic brain injury (TBI), progesterone has the ability to reduce edema and inflammatory cytokines, prevent neuronal loss and improve functional outcomes. Clinical trials have shown that short-and long-term progesterone treatment induces a significant improvement in the level of disability among patients with brain injury. In experimental spinal cord injury (SCI), molecular markers of functional motoneurons become impaired, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA, Na,K-ATPase mRNA, microtubule-associated protein 2 and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). SCI also produces motoneuron chromatolysis. Progesterone treatment restores the expression of these molecules while chromatolysis subsided. SCI also causes oligodendrocyte loss and demyelination. In this case, a short progesterone treatment enhances proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitors into mature myelin-producing cells, whereas prolonged treatment increases a transcription factor (Olig1) needed to repair injury-induced demyelination. Progesterone neuroprotection has also been shown in motoneuron neurodegeneration. In Wobbler mice spinal cord, progesterone reverses the impaired expression of BDNF, ChAT and Na,K-ATPase, prevents vacuolar motoneuron degeneration and the development of mitochondrial abnormalities, while functionally increases muscle strength and the survival of Wobbler mice. Multiple mechanisms contribute to these progesterone effects, and the role played by classical nuclear receptors, extra nuclear receptors, membrane receptors, and the reduced metabolites of progesterone in neuroprotection and myelin formation remain an exciting field worth of exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro F De Nicola
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Obligado, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Harburger LL, Saadi A, Frick KM. Dose-dependent effects of post-training estradiol plus progesterone treatment on object memory consolidation and hippocampal extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation in young ovariectomized mice. Neuroscience 2009; 160:6-12. [PMID: 19223011 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Revised: 02/11/2009] [Accepted: 02/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous work from our laboratory has shown that the ability of estradiol to enhance object memory consolidation in young ovariectomized mice is dependent on dorsal hippocampal activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) signaling pathway [Fernandez SM, Lewis MC, Pechenino AS, Harburger LL, Orr PT, Gresack JE, Schafe GE, Frick KM (2008) Estradiol-induced enhancement of object memory consolidation involves hippocampal extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation and membrane-bound estrogen receptors. J Neurosci 28:8660-8667]. However, it is unclear if estradiol modulates memory or ERK activation similarly in the presence of progesterone. Therefore, the present study investigated effects of combined estradiol and progesterone treatment on object memory consolidation and dorsal hippocampal ERK activation in young ovariectomized C57BL/6 mice. Object memory was tested in a novel object recognition task. Immediately after training, mice received intraperiotoneal (i.p.) injections of vehicle, 17beta-estradiol (E(2); 0.2 mg/kg), or E(2) plus 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg progesterone (P). Forty-eight hours later, mice receiving E(2) alone or E(2) plus 10 or 20 mg/kg P exhibited significantly enhanced memory for the novel object relative to chance, whereas those receiving vehicle or E(2) plus 5 mg/kg P spent no more time than chance with the novel object. Two weeks later, ERK phosphorylation was measured in the dorsal hippocampus 1 h after i.p. injection of vehicle, E(2), or E(2) plus P. Consistent with our previous work [Fernandez SM, Lewis MC, Pechenino AS, Harburger LL, Orr PT, Gresack JE, Schafe GE, Frick KM (2008) Estradiol-induced enhancement of object memory consolidation involves hippocampal extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation and membrane-bound estrogen receptors. J Neurosci 28:8660-8667], E(2) alone significantly increased phospho-p42 ERK protein levels in the dorsal hippocampus relative to vehicle controls. In contrast, no combination of E(2) and P affected dorsal hippocampal phospho-ERK levels. These data indicate that, unlike E(2) alone, the beneficial effects of combined E(2) plus P treatment on memory are not associated with ERK activation in the dorsal hippocampus 1 h after treatment, and suggest that E(2) alone and combined E(2) plus P may influence ERK activation in different time frames or enhance memory through different mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- L L Harburger
- Department of Psychology, Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, NY 10016, USA
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