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Singh A, Tripathi R, Gupta RK, Rashid R, Jha RK. Gonadotropin upregulates intraovarian calpains-1 and -2 during ovarian follicular recruitment in the SD rat model. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100862. [PMID: 38402721 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100862] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Calpain role has been shown in the cumulus cell-oocyte complexes and, corpus luteum. We investigated the association of calpains-1 and -2 in ovarian folliculogenesis using the Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model and steroidogenesis in the human granulosa cells (hGCs). We induced PCOS in 42-day-old SD rats by letrozole oral gavage for 21 days. Premature ovarian failure (POF) was induced in 21-day-old SD rats by 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD). Ovulation and ovarian hyperstimulatory (OHS) syndrome were induced by pregnant mare gonadotropin (PMSG) + human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatments in 21 days SD rats, respectively. Steroidogenesis is stimulated in human granulosa cells (hGCs) by forskolin and the response of 17-beta-estradiol (E2) on calpains expression was checked in hGCs. The protein expression by immunoblotting and activity by biochemical assay of calpains-1 and -2 showed an oscillating pattern in the ovarian cycle. PMSG-induced follicular recruitment showed upregulation of calpains-1 and -2, but with no change during ovarian function cessation (POF). Upregulated calpain-2 expression and calpain activity was found in the hCG +PMSG-induced ovulation. Letrozole-induced PCOS showed downregulation of calpain-1, but upregulation of calpain-2. PMSG+hCG-induced OHS led to the upregulation of calpain-1. Letrozole and metformin separately increased the expression level of calpains-1 and -2 in the hGCs during luteinization. In conclusion, the expression levels of calpains -1 and -2 are increased with ovarian follicular recruitment by PMSG and calpain-1 is decreased in the PCOS condition, and letrozole and metformin upregulate the expression of calpains-1 and -2 during luteinization in the hGCs possibly via E2 action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Singh
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Lucknow, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rupal Tripathi
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Lucknow, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Gupta
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Lucknow, India
| | - Rumaisa Rashid
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Lucknow, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Jha
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Lucknow, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Esmaeilian Y, Hela F, Bildik G, İltumur E, Yusufoglu S, Yildiz CS, Yakin K, Kordan Y, Oktem O. Autophagy regulates sex steroid hormone synthesis through lysosomal degradation of lipid droplets in human ovary and testis. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:342. [PMID: 37236920 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05864-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process that aims to maintain the energy homeostasis of the cell by recycling long-lived proteins and organelles. Previous studies documented the role of autophagy in sex steroid hormone biosynthesis in different animal models and human testis. Here we demonstrate in this study that sex steroid hormones estrogen and progesterone are produced through the same autophagy-mediated mechanism in the human ovary in addition to the human testis. In brief, pharmacological inhibition and genetic interruption of autophagy through silencing of autophagy genes (Beclin1 and ATG5) via siRNA and shRNA technologies significantly reduced basal and gonadotropin-stimulated estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and testosterone (T) production in the ex vivo explant tissue culture of ovary and testis and primary and immortalized granulosa cells. Consistent with the findings of the previous works, we observed that lipophagy, a special form of autophagy, mediates the association of the lipid droplets (LD)s with lysosome to deliver the lipid cargo within the LDs to lysosomes for degradation in order to release free cholesterol required for steroid synthesis. Gonadotropin hormones are likely to augment the production of sex steroid hormones by upregulating the expression of autophagy genes, accelerating autophagic flux and promoting the association of LDs with autophagosome and lysosome. Moreover, we detected some aberrations at different steps of lipophagy-mediated P4 production in the luteinized GCs of women with defective ovarian luteal function. The progression of autophagy and the fusion of the LDs with lysosome are markedly defective, along with reduced P4 production in these patients. Our data, together with the findings of the previous works, may have significant clinical implications by opening a new avenue in understanding and treatment of a wide range of diseases, from reproductive disorders to sex steroid-producing neoplasms, sex steroid-dependent malignancies (breast, endometrium, prostate) and benign disorders (endometriosis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashar Esmaeilian
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Francesko Hela
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Gamze Bildik
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ece İltumur
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Yusufoglu
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Ceren Sultan Yildiz
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Yakin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yakup Kordan
- Department of Urology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Clark KL, George JW, Przygrodzka E, Plewes MR, Hua G, Wang C, Davis JS. Hippo Signaling in the Ovary: Emerging Roles in Development, Fertility, and Disease. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:1074-1096. [PMID: 35596657 PMCID: PMC9695108 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Emerging studies indicate that the Hippo pathway, a highly conserved pathway that regulates organ size control, plays an important role in governing ovarian physiology, fertility, and pathology. Specific to the ovary, the spatiotemporal expression of the major components of the Hippo signaling cascade are observed throughout the reproductive lifespan. Observations from multiple species begin to elucidate the functional diversity and molecular mechanisms of Hippo signaling in the ovary in addition to the identification of interactions with other signaling pathways and responses to various external stimuli. Hippo pathway components play important roles in follicle growth and activation, as well as steroidogenesis, by regulating several key biological processes through mechanisms of cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and cell fate determination. Given the importance of these processes, dysregulation of the Hippo pathway contributes to loss of follicular homeostasis and reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency, and ovarian cancers. This review highlights what is currently known about the Hippo pathway core components in ovarian physiology, including ovarian development, follicle development, and oocyte maturation, while identifying areas for future research to better understand Hippo signaling as a multifunctional pathway in reproductive health and biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra L Clark
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.,Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Jitu W George
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.,Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Emilia Przygrodzka
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.,Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Michele R Plewes
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.,Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Guohua Hua
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.,Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
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HSD3B1 Expression Is Upregulated by Interleukin 4 in HT-29 Colon Cancer Cells via Multiple Signaling Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113572. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase is essential for the synthesis of active steroid hormones. Interleukin 4 (IL4) induces the expression of HSD3B1 in various human cancer cell lines. Here, we demonstrated that administration of IL4 to an HT-29 colon cancer cell line induced high expression of HSD3B1 at the mRNA and protein levels. In the HT-29 cells, IL4 stimulated the activity of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) and promoted its binding to the STAT6-binding site in the HSD3B1 promoter. The STAT6 inhibitor significantly suppressed HSD3B1 induction by IL4 in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, inhibition of the PI3-kinase/AKT pathway strongly suppressed the IL4-induced HSD3B1 expression. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), a downstream target of AKT, had a stimulatory effect on the IL4-induced HSD3B1 expression. However, IL4 stimulated the phosphorylation of AKT, which inhibited the GSK3 activity at the early stage. Hence, GSK3 potentiated the HSD3B1 levels at the late stage of the IL4 stimulation. Additionally, inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), ERK1/2 and p38, but not of JNK, partly reduced the HSD3B1 expression following the IL4 stimulation. We further demonstrated that IL4 potently promoted steroid synthesis. Our results indicate that IL4 induces HSD3B1 expression via multiple signaling pathways in HT-29 cells and may play a role in the regulation of steroid synthesis.
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Assaf L, Eid AA, Nassif J. Role of AMPK/mTOR, mitochondria, and ROS in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Life Sci 2022; 306:120805. [PMID: 35850246 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity usually in the ovaries, fallopian tube, and pelvic cavity. It's a chronic enigmatic gynecological condition associated with dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain, and infertility. Endometriosis lesions exist in a unique microenvironment characterized by increased concentrations of hormones, inflammation, and oxidative stress. This environment promotes cell survival through the binding of membrane receptors and subsequent cascading activation of intracellular kinases that stimulate a cellular response. In endometriosis, well-established signaling pathways, mTOR and AMPK, are altered via steroid hormones and other factors to promote cell growth, migration, and proliferation. This is accompanied by dysfunction in the mitochondria that increase energy production to sustain proliferation demands consequently leading to reactive oxygen species overproduction. This review aims to summarize the role of altered mTOR/AMPK signaling pathway, mitochondrial dysfunction, and reactive oxygen species overproduction along with providing therapeutic and diagnostic approaches. Highlighting these factors would provide a better understanding to reach a coherent theory for the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lama Assaf
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; AUB Diabetes, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Assaad A Eid
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; AUB Diabetes, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Joseph Nassif
- Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Przygrodzka E, Plewes MR, Davis JS. Luteinizing Hormone Regulation of Inter-Organelle Communication and Fate of the Corpus Luteum. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9972. [PMID: 34576135 PMCID: PMC8470545 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The corpus luteum is an endocrine gland that synthesizes the steroid hormone progesterone. luteinizing hormone (LH) is a key luteotropic hormone that stimulates ovulation, luteal development, progesterone biosynthesis, and maintenance of the corpus luteum. Luteotropic and luteolytic factors precisely regulate luteal structure and function; yet, despite recent scientific progress within the past few years, the exact mechanisms remain largely unknown. In the present review, we summarize the recent progress towards understanding cellular changes induced by LH in steroidogenic luteal cells. Herein, we will focus on the effects of LH on inter-organelle communication and steroid biosynthesis, and how LH regulates key protein kinases (i.e., AMPK and MTOR) responsible for controlling steroidogenesis and autophagy in luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Przygrodzka
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-3255, USA; (E.P.); (M.R.P.)
| | - Michele R. Plewes
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-3255, USA; (E.P.); (M.R.P.)
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - John S. Davis
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-3255, USA; (E.P.); (M.R.P.)
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
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Synergetic Action of Forskolin and Mevastatin Induce Normalization of Lipids Profile in Dyslipidemic Rats through Adenosine Monophosphate Kinase Upregulation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6687551. [PMID: 34104650 PMCID: PMC8159628 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6687551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we examined the synergetic effect of forskolin and mevastatin administration on lipid profile and lipid metabolism in omental adipose tissue in dyslipidemic rats. The study was conducted on forty male albino rats. The rats were randomly classified into four main groups of ten animals in each group as follows: group A, served as control nontreated; group B, rats that received Triton WR 1339 (500 mg/kg); group C, rats that received Triton WR 1339 with forskolin (100% FSK extract 0.5 mg/kg/day) for four weeks; and group D, dyslipidemic rats received both mevastatin and forskolin. At the end of the experimental period, blood and omental adipose tissue samples were collected, preserved, and used for biochemical determination of lipid profile and mRNA expression profile of adenylate cyclase (AC), hormone-sensitive lipase, respectively (HSL), and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). The results showed a significant decline in the serum concentration of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides, although there was a significant increase in serum levels of HDL-cholesterol and glycerol in rats received forskolin alone or with mevastatin when compared with control and dyslipidemic groups. The mRNA expression levels of AC, HSL, and AMPK were significantly increased in omental adipose tissue of rats received forskolin when compared with other groups. In conclusion, forskolin acts synergistically with mevastatin to lower lipid profile and improve lipid metabolism in dyslipidemic rats through upregulation of AMPK expression.
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Guo Z, Chen X, Feng P, Yu Q. Short-term rapamycin administration elevated testosterone levels and exacerbated reproductive disorder in dehydroepiandrosterone-induced polycystic ovary syndrome mice. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:64. [PMID: 33947426 PMCID: PMC8097915 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00813-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrinopathy that affects reproduction and metabolism. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been shown to participate in female reproduction under physiological and pathological conditions. This study aimed to investigate the role of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS mice. Results Female C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned into three groups: control group, DHEA group, and DHEA + rapamycin group. All DHEA-treated mice were administered 6 mg/100 g DHEA for 21 consecutive days, and the DHEA + rapamycin group was intraperitoneally injected with 4 mg/kg rapamycin every other day for the last 14 days of the DHEA treatment. There was no obvious change in the expression of mTORC1 signaling in the ovaries of the control and DHEA groups. Rapamycin did not protect against DHEA-induced acyclicity and PCO morphology, but impeded follicle development and elevated serum testosterone levels in DHEA-induced mice, which was related with suppressed Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Cyp19a1 expression. Moreover, rapamycin also exacerbated insulin resistance but relieved lipid metabolic disturbance in the short term. Conclusions Rapamycin exacerbated reproductive imbalance in DHEA-induced PCOS mice, which characterized by elevated testosterone levels and suppressed steroid synthesis. This underscores the need for new mTORC1-specific and tissue-specific mTOR-related drugs for reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaixin Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Penghui Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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DeWitt NA, Whirledge S, Kallen AN. Updates on molecular and environmental determinants of luteal progesterone production. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 515:110930. [PMID: 32610113 PMCID: PMC7484338 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone, a critical hormone in reproduction, is a key sex steroid in the establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy and serves as an intermediary for synthesis of other steroid hormones. Progesterone production from the corpus luteum is a tightly regulated process which is stimulated and maintained by multiple factors, both systemic and local. Multiple regulatory systems, including classic mediators of gonadotropin stimulation such as the cAMP/PKA pathway and TGFβ-mediated signaling pathways, as well as local production of hormonal factors, exist to promote granulosa cell function and physiological fine-tuning of progesterone levels. In this manuscript, we provide an updated narrative review of the known mediators of human luteal progesterone and highlight new observations regarding this important process, focusing on studies published within the last five years. We will also review recent evidence suggesting that this complex system of progesterone production is sensitive to disruption by exogenous environmental chemicals that can mimic or interfere with the activities of endogenous hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A DeWitt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shannon Whirledge
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amanda N Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Li YX, Guo X, Gulappa T, Menon B, Menon KMJ. SREBP Plays a Regulatory Role in LH/hCG Receptor mRNA Expression in Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:4783-4792. [PMID: 31150065 PMCID: PMC6736214 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-00913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT LH receptor (LHR) expression has been shown to be regulated posttranscriptionally by LHR mRNA binding protein (LRBP) in rodent and human ovaries. LRBP was characterized as mevalonate kinase. The gene that encodes mevalonate kinase is a member of a family of genes that encode enzymes involved in lipid synthesis and are regulated by the transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs). OBJECTIVE The current study examined the regulation of LHR mRNA expression in human granulosa-lutein cells in response to alterations in cholesterol metabolism. DESIGN Using atorvastatin, an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis, we examined its effect on LHR mRNA expression. The effect of atorvastatin on SREBP and mRNA expression as well as LHR mRNA binding protein expression was examined. Finally, the effect of atorvastatin on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-stimulated progesterone production and the expression of key steroidogenic enzymes was also examined. RESULTS Statin treatment reduced LHR mRNA expression by increasing the levels of SREBP1a and SREBP2, leading to an increase in LRBP. RNA gel shift assay showed that increased binding of LHR mRNA to LRBP occurred in response to atorvastatin, leading to LHR mRNA degradation. The granulosa-lutein cells pretreated with atorvastatin also showed decreased responsiveness to hCG by decreasing the mRNA and protein expression of steroidogenic enzymes. Atorvastatin also attenuated LH/hCG-induced progesterone production. CONCLUSION These results imply that LHR mRNA expression by the human granulosa-lutein cells is regulated by cholesterol, through a mechanism involving SREBP and SREBP cleavage activating protein serving as the cholesterol sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Xia Li
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Xingzi Guo
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Thippeswamy Gulappa
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Bindu Menon
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - K M J Menon
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: K. M. J. Menon, PhD, Departments of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, 6428 Medical Sciences Building I, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. E-mail:
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Convissar S, Winston NJ, Fierro MA, Scoccia H, Zamah AM, Stocco C. Sp1 regulates steroidogenic genes and LHCGR expression in primary human luteinized granulosa cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 190:183-192. [PMID: 30954507 PMCID: PMC6511456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) bind to the luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR). LHCGR is required to maintain corpus luteum function but the mechanisms involved in the regulation of LHCGR in human luteal cells remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to characterize the expression of LHCGR mRNA in primary human luteinized granulosa cells (hLGCs) obtained from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and to correlate LHCGR expression with the response of hLGCs to hCG by assessing the expression of genes known to be markers of hCG actions. The results show that LHCGR expression is low in freshly isolated cells but recovers rapidly in culture and that hCG maintains LHCGR expression, suggesting a positive feedback loop. The activity of a LHCGR-LUC reporter increased in cells treated with hCG but not with follicle-stimulating hormone. Treatment with hCG also stimulated the expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis in a time-dependent manner. LHCGR promoter expression was found to be regulated by SP1, which we show is highly expressed in hLGCs. Moreover, SP1 inhibition prevented the stimulation of steroidogenic genes and the increase in LHCGR-LUC reporter activity by hCG. Finally, we provide evidence that a complex formed by SP1 and GATA4 may play a role in the maintenance of LHCGR expression. This report reveals the mechanisms involved in the regulation of the LHCGR and provides experimental data demonstrating that the proximal region of the LHCGR promoter is sufficient to drive the expression of this gene in primary hLGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Convissar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, United States
| | - Nicola J Winston
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, United States
| | - Michelle A Fierro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, United States
| | - Humberto Scoccia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, United States
| | - Alberuni M Zamah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, United States
| | - Carlos Stocco
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, United States.
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Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase of the phosphatidylinositol kinase-related kinase family that regulates cell growth, metabolism, and autophagy. Extensive research has linked mTOR to several human diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and aging. In this review, recent publications regarding the mechanisms underlying the role of mTOR in female reproduction under physiological and pathological conditions are summarized. Moreover, we assess whether strategies to improve or suppress mTOR expression could have therapeutic potential for reproductive diseases like premature ovarian failure, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and endometriosis.
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Sparagana S, Franz DN, Krueger DA, Bissler JJ, Berkowitz N, Burock K, Kingswood JC. Pooled analysis of menstrual irregularities from three major clinical studies evaluating everolimus for the treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186235. [PMID: 29023494 PMCID: PMC5638404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To determine the impact of everolimus on female fertility, including menstrual irregularities, secondary amenorrhea, and luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormone levels in female patients. Design A pooled analysis from 3 prospective studies consisting of a core phase (≥6 months) and a long-term follow-up open-label extension. Setting One phase 2 single-center and two phase 3 multicenter studies. Participants Data were obtained from female participants, restricted to those between 10 and 55 years of age, during 1 of 3 of the described clinical trials of everolimus. Patients had received ≥ 1 dose of everolimus. Main outcome measures Incidence of fertility events. Results A total of 43/112 patients (38.4%) experienced at least 1 menstrual irregularity. The most common events were amenorrhea (24.1%) and irregular menstruation (17.0%). Seven patients (6.3%) experienced grade 3/4 amenorrhea. When only the longest duration period of amenorrhea for each patient was considered, the median duration was 291 days. Fifteen patients attained menarche during the treatment period in any of the pooled studies. The mean age of menarche for this group was 12.4 years, similar to that of patients who were postmenarche at study entry (12.2 years). A total of 19/92 patients (20.7%) who were postmenarche at baseline or during the study experienced an irregular menstruation event. An increased luteinizing hormone level was reported as an adverse event in 3/112 patients (3%), and follicle-stimulating hormone levels were within normal limits for these patients. Conclusions No new safety concerns emerged regarding endocrine function and menstruation in female patients with tuberous sclerosis complex–associated subependymal giant cell astrocytoma or angiomyolipoma, who were receiving everolimus. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.govNCT00411619, NCT00789828, NCT00790400
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Sparagana
- Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - David N. Franz
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Darcy A. Krueger
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - John J. Bissler
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States of America
| | - Noah Berkowitz
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, United States of America
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