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Kapper C, Oppelt P, Ganhör C, Gyunesh AA, Arbeithuber B, Stelzl P, Rezk-Füreder M. Minerals and the Menstrual Cycle: Impacts on Ovulation and Endometrial Health. Nutrients 2024; 16:1008. [PMID: 38613041 PMCID: PMC11013220 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071008] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of minerals in female fertility, particularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, presents a complex area of study that underscores the interplay between nutrition and reproductive health. This narrative review aims to elucidate the impacts of minerals on key aspects of the reproductive system: hormonal regulation, ovarian function and ovulation, endometrial health, and oxidative stress. Despite the attention given to specific micronutrients in relation to reproductive disorders, there is a noticeable absence of a comprehensive review focusing on the impact of minerals throughout the menstrual cycle on female fertility. This narrative review aims to address this gap by examining the influence of minerals on reproductive health. Each mineral's contribution is explored in detail to provide a clearer picture of its importance in supporting female fertility. This comprehensive analysis not only enhances our knowledge of reproductive health but also offers clinicians valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies and the recommended intake of minerals to promote female reproductive well-being, considering the menstrual cycle. This review stands as the first to offer such a detailed examination of minerals in the context of the menstrual cycle, aiming to elevate the understanding of their critical role in female fertility and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Kapper
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Peter Oppelt
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Clara Ganhör
- Division of Pathophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
- Clinical Research Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Ayberk Alp Gyunesh
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Barbara Arbeithuber
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Patrick Stelzl
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Marlene Rezk-Füreder
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
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Chen X, Moenter SM. Gonadal Feedback Alters the Relationship between Action Potentials and Hormone Release in Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons in Male Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6717-6730. [PMID: 37536982 PMCID: PMC10552940 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2355-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, the pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from neurons in the hypothalamus triggers secretion of anterior pituitary gonadotropins, which activate steroidogenesis, and steroids in turn exert typically homeostatic negative feedback on GnRH release. Although long-term episodic firing patterns of GnRH neurons in brain slices resemble the pulsatile release of GnRH and LH in vivo, neither the relationship between GnRH neuron firing and release nor whether this relationship is influenced by gonadal feedback are known. We combined fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and patch-clamp to perform simultaneous measurements of neuropeptide release with either spontaneous action potential firing or in response to neuromodulator or action-potential-spike templates in brain slice preparations from male mice. GnRH release increased with higher frequency spontaneous firing to a point; release reached a plateau after which further increases in firing rate did not elicit further increased release. Kisspeptin, a potent GnRH neuron activator via a Gq-coupled signaling pathway, triggered GnRH release before increasing firing rate, whether globally perfused or locally applied. Increasing the number of spikes in an applied burst template increased release; orchidectomized mice had higher sensitivity to the increased action potential number than sham-operated mice. Similarly, Ca2+ currents triggered by these burst templates were increased in GnRH neurons of orchidectomized mice. These results suggest removal of gonadal feedback increases the efficacy of the stimulus-secretion coupling mechanisms, a phenomenon that may extend to other steroid-sensitive regions of the brain.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Pulsatile secretion of GnRH plays a critical role in fertility. The temporal relationship between GnRH neuron action potential firing and GnRH release remains unknown as does whether this relationship is influenced by gonadal feedback. By combining techniques of fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and patch-clamp we, for the first time, monitored GnRH concentration changes during spontaneous and neuromodulator-induced GnRH neuron firing. We also made the novel observation that gonadal factors exert negative feedback on excitation-secretion coupling to reduce release in response to the same stimulus. This has implications for the control of normal fertility, central causes of infertility, and more broadly for the effects of sex steroids in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology
- Internal Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5622
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Abot A, Robert V, Fleurot R, Dardente H, Hellier V, Froment P, Duittoz A, Knauf C, Dufourny L. How does apelin affect LH levels? An investigation at the level of GnRH and KNDy neurons. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 557:111752. [PMID: 35973528 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic control of reproduction relies on GnRH and kisspeptin (KP) secretions. KP neurons are sensitive to sex steroids and metabolic status and their distribution overlaps with neurons producing apelin, a metabolic hormone known to decrease LH secretion in rats. Here, we observed neuroanatomical contacts between apelin fibers and both KP and GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus of male rodents. Intracerebroventricular apelin infusion for 2 weeks in male mice did not decrease LH levels nor did it affect gene expression for KP, neurokinin B and dynorphin. Finally, increasing apelin concentrations did not modulate Ca2+ levels of cultured GnRH neurons, while 10 μM apelin infusion on forskolin pretreated GnRH neurons revoked a rhythmic activity in 18% of GnRH neurons. These results suggest that acute apelin effect on LH secretion does not involve modulation of gene expression in KP neurons but may affect the secretory activity of GnRH neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Abot
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1220, Université Paul Sabatier, UPS, Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive et Nutrition (IRSD), CHU Purpan, Place du Docteur Baylac, International Laboratory NeuroMicrobiota, CS 60039, 31024, Toulouse Cedex 3, France
| | - Vincent Robert
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Renaud Fleurot
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Hugues Dardente
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Vincent Hellier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Froment
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anne Duittoz
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Claude Knauf
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1220, Université Paul Sabatier, UPS, Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive et Nutrition (IRSD), CHU Purpan, Place du Docteur Baylac, International Laboratory NeuroMicrobiota, CS 60039, 31024, Toulouse Cedex 3, France
| | - Laurence Dufourny
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France.
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Golan M, Boulanger-Weill J, Pinot A, Fontanaud P, Faucherre A, Gajbhiye DS, Hollander-Cohen L, Fiordelisio-Coll T, Martin AO, Mollard P. Synaptic communication mediates the assembly of a self-organizing circuit that controls reproduction. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabc8475. [PMID: 33608269 PMCID: PMC7895442 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abc8475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Migration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons from their birthplace in the nasal placode to their hypothalamic destination is critical for vertebrate reproduction and species persistence. While their migration mode as individual GnRH neurons has been extensively studied, the role of GnRH-GnRH cell communication during migration remains largely unexplored. Here, we show in awake zebrafish larvae that migrating GnRH neurons pause at the nasal-forebrain junction and form clusters that act as interhemisphere neuronal ensembles. Within the ensembles, GnRH neurons create an isolated, spontaneously active circuit that is internally wired through monosynaptic glutamatergic synapses into which newborn GnRH neurons integrate before entering the brain. This initial phase of integration drives a phenotypic switch, which is essential for GnRH neurons to properly migrate toward their hypothalamic destination. Together, these experiments reveal a critical step for reproduction, which depends on synaptic communication between migrating GnRH neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Golan
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France.
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, P.O. Box 15159, Rishon Letziyon, 7505101, Israel
| | - J Boulanger-Weill
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - A Pinot
- BioCampus Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, F-34094 Montpellier, France
| | - P Fontanaud
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
- BioCampus Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, F-34094 Montpellier, France
| | - A Faucherre
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - D S Gajbhiye
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, P.O. Box 15159, Rishon Letziyon, 7505101, Israel
| | - L Hollander-Cohen
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - T Fiordelisio-Coll
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, DF, México
| | - A O Martin
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - P Mollard
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France.
- BioCampus Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, F-34094 Montpellier, France
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Kim D, Jang S, Kim J, Park I, Ku K, Choi M, Lee S, Heo WD, Son GH, Choe HK, Kim K. Kisspeptin Neuron-Specific and Self-Sustained Calcium Oscillation in the Hypothalamic Arcuate Nucleus of Neonatal Mice: Regulatory Factors of its Synchronization. Neuroendocrinology 2020; 110:1010-1027. [PMID: 31935735 PMCID: PMC7592953 DOI: 10.1159/000505922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Synchronous and pulsatile neural activation of kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARN) are important components of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse generator, the final common pathway for central regulation of mammalian reproduction. However, whether ARN kisspeptin neurons can intrinsically generate self-sustained synchronous oscillations from the early neonatal period and how they are regulated remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the endogenous rhythmicity of ARN kisspeptin neurons and its neural regulation using a neonatal organotypic slice culture model. METHODS We monitored calcium (Ca2+) dynamics in real-time from individual ARN kisspeptin neurons in neonatal organotypic explant cultures of Kiss1-IRES-Cre mice transduced with genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators. Pharmacological approaches were employed to determine the regulations of kisspeptin neuron-specific Ca2+ oscillations. A chemogenetic approach was utilized to assess the contribution of ARN kisspeptin neurons to the population dynamics. RESULTS ARN kisspeptin neurons in neonatal organotypic cultures exhibited a robust synchronized Ca2+ oscillation with a period of approximately 3 min. Kisspeptin neuron-specific Ca2+ oscillations were dependent on voltage-gated sodium channels and regulated by endoplasmic reticulum-dependent Ca2+ homeostasis. Chemogenetic inhibition of kisspeptin neurons abolished synchronous Ca2+ oscillations, but the autocrine actions of the neuropeptides were marginally effective. Finally, neonatal ARN kisspeptin neurons were regulated by N-methyl-D-aspartate and gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor-mediated neurotransmission. CONCLUSION These data demonstrate that ARN kisspeptin neurons in organotypic cultures can generate synchronized and self-sustained Ca2+ oscillations. These oscillations controlled by multiple regulators within the ARN are a novel ultradian rhythm generator that is active during the early neonatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doyeon Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangwon Jang
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongah Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Inah Park
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyojin Ku
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Mijung Choi
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sukwon Lee
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Do Heo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Hoon Son
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Kyoung Choe
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungjin Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea,
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Vastagh C, Solymosi N, Farkas I, Liposits Z. Proestrus Differentially Regulates Expression of Ion Channel and Calcium Homeostasis Genes in GnRH Neurons of Mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:137. [PMID: 31213979 PMCID: PMC6554425 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In proestrus, the changing gonadal hormone milieu alters the physiological properties of GnRH neurons and contributes to the development of the GnRH surge. We hypothesized that proestrus also influences the expression of different ion channel genes in mouse GnRH neurons. Therefore, we performed gene expression profiling of GnRH neurons collected from intact, proestrous and metestrous GnRH-GFP transgenic mice, respectively. Proestrus changed the expression of 37 ion channel and 8 calcium homeostasis-regulating genes. Voltage-gated sodium channels responded with upregulation of three alpha subunits (Scn2a1, Scn3a, and Scn9a). Within the voltage-gated potassium channel class, Kcna1, Kcnd3, Kcnh3, and Kcnq2 were upregulated, while others (Kcna4, Kcnc3, Kcnd2, and Kcng1) underwent downregulation. Proestrus also had impact on inwardly rectifying potassium channel subunits manifested in enhanced expression of Kcnj9 and Kcnj10 genes, whereas Kcnj1, Kcnj11, and Kcnj12 subunit genes were downregulated. The two-pore domain potassium channels also showed differential expression with upregulation of Kcnk1 and reduced expression of three subunit genes (Kcnk7, Kcnk12, and Kcnk16). Changes in expression of chloride channels involved both the voltage-gated (Clcn3 and Clcn6) and the intracellular (Clic1) subtypes. Regarding the pore-forming alpha-1 subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels, two (Cacna1b and Cacna1h) were upregulated, while Cacna1g showed downregulation. The ancillary subunits were also differentially regulated (Cacna2d1, Cacna2d2, Cacnb1, Cacnb3, Cacnb4, Cacng5, Cacng6, and Cacng8). In addition, ryanodine receptor 1 (Ryr1) gene was downregulated, while a transient receptor potential cation channel (Trpm3) gene showed enhanced expression. Genes encoding proteins regulating the intracellular calcium homeostasis were also influenced (Calb1, Hpca, Hpcal1, Hpcal4, Cabp7, Cab 39l, and Cib2). The differential expression of genes coding for ion channel proteins in GnRH neurons at late proestrus indicates that the altering hormone milieu contributes to remodeling of different kinds of ion channels of GnRH neurons, which might be a prerequisite of enhanced cellular activity of GnRH neurons and the subsequent surge release of the neurohormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Norbert Solymosi
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
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Herbison AE. The Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Pulse Generator. Endocrinology 2018; 159:3723-3736. [PMID: 30272161 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The pulsatile release of GnRH and LH secretion is essential for fertility in all mammals. Pulses of LH occur approximately every hour in follicular-phase females and every 2 to 3 hours in luteal-phase females and males. Many studies over the last 50 years have sought to identify the nature and mechanism of the "GnRH pulse generator" responsible for pulsatile LH release. This review examines the characteristics of pulsatile hormone release and summarizes investigations that have led to our present understanding of the GnRH pulse generator. There is presently little compelling evidence for an intrinsic mechanism of pulse generation involving interactions between GnRH neuron cell bodies. Rather, data support the presence of an extrinsic pulse generator located within the arcuate nucleus, and attention has focused on the kisspeptin neurons and their projections to GnRH neuron dendrons concentrated around the median eminence. Sufficient evidence has been gathered in rodents to conclude that a subpopulation of arcuate kisspeptin neurons is, indeed, the GnRH pulse generator. Findings in other species are generally compatible with this view and suggest that arcuate/infundibular kisspeptin neurons represent the mammalian GnRH pulse generator. With hindsight, it is likely that past arcuate nucleus multiunit activity recordings have been from kisspeptin neurons. Despite advances in identifying the cells forming the pulse generator, almost nothing is known about their mechanisms of synchronicity and the afferent hormonal and transmitter modulation required to establish the normal patterns of LH pulsatility in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Poliandri A, Miller D, Howard S, Nobles M, Ruiz-Babot G, Harmer S, Tinker A, McKay T, Guasti L, Dunkel L. Generation of kisspeptin-responsive GnRH neurons from human pluripotent stem cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 447:12-22. [PMID: 28232089 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
GnRH neurons are fundamental for reproduction in all vertebrates, integrating all reproductive inputs. The inaccessibility of human GnRH-neurons has been a major impediment to studying the central control of reproduction and its disorders. Here, we report the efficient generation of kisspeptin responsive GnRH-secreting neurons by directed differentiation of human Embryonic Stem Cells and induced-Pluripotent Stem Cells derived from a Kallman Syndrome patient and a healthy family member. The protocol involves the generation of intermediate Neural Progenitor Cells (NPCs) through long-term Bone morphogenetic protein 4 inhibition, followed by terminal specification of these NPCs in media containing Fibroblast Growth Factor 8 and a NOTCH inhibitor. The resulting GnRH-expressing and -secreting neurons display a neuroendocrine gene expression pattern and present spontaneous calcium transients that can be stimulated by kisspeptin. These in vitro generated GnRH expressing cells provide a new resource for studying the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and function of GnRH neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Poliandri
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Duncan Miller
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sasha Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Muriel Nobles
- The Heart Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Gerard Ruiz-Babot
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Stephen Harmer
- The Heart Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Andrew Tinker
- The Heart Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Tristan McKay
- School of Healthcare Science, The Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Leo Dunkel
- Centre for Endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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Heyde KC, Ruder WC. A Model of a Synthetic Biological Communication Interface between Mammalian Cells and Mechatronic Systems. IEEE Trans Nanobioscience 2017; 15:864-870. [PMID: 28092500 DOI: 10.1109/tnb.2016.2620942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The creation of communication interfaces between abiotic and biotic systems represents a significant research challenge. In this work, we design and model a system linking the biochemical signaling pathways of mammalian cells to the actions of a mobile robotic prosthesis. We envision this system as a robotic platform carrying an optically monitored bioreactor that harbors mammalian cells. The cellular, optical signal is captured by an onboard fluorescent microscope and converted into an electronic signal. We first present a design for the overall cell-robot system, with a specific focus on the design of the synthetic gene networks needed for the system. We use these synthetic networks to encode motion commands within the cell's endogenous, oscillatory calcium signaling pathways. We then describe a potential system whereby this oscillatory signal could be outputted and monitored as a change in cellular fluorescence. Next, we use the changes resulting from the synthetic biological modifications as new parameters in a simulation of a well-established mathematical model for intracellular calcium signaling. The resulting signal is processed in the frequency domain, with specific frequencies activating cognate robot motion subroutines.
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Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuronal network generates pulse and surge modes of gonadotropin secretion critical for puberty and fertility. The arcuate nucleus kisspeptin neurons that innervate the projections of GnRH neurons in and around their neurosecretory zone are key components of the pulse generator in all mammals. By contrast, kisspeptin neurons located in the preoptic area project to GnRH neuron cell bodies and proximal dendrites and are involved in surge generation in female rodents (and possibly other species). The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis develops embryonically but, apart from short periods of activation immediately after birth, remains suppressed through a combination of gonadal and non-gonadal mechanisms. At puberty onset, the pulse generator reactivates, probably owing to progressive stimulatory influences on GnRH neurons from glial and neurotransmitter signalling, and the re-emergence of stimulatory arcuate kisspeptin input. In females, the development of pulsatile gonadotropin secretion enables final maturation of the surge generator that ultimately triggers the first ovulation. Representation of the GnRH neuronal network as a series of interlocking functional modules could help conceptualization of its functioning in different species. Insights into pulse and surge generation are expected to aid development of therapeutic strategies ameliorating pubertal disorders and infertility in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Medical Sciences, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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Watanabe M, Fukuda A, Nabekura J. The role of GABA in the regulation of GnRH neurons. Front Neurosci 2014; 8:387. [PMID: 25506316 PMCID: PMC4246667 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons form the final common pathway for the central regulation of reproduction. Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) has long been implicated as one of the major players in the regulation of GnRH neurons. Although GABA is typically an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature adult central nervous system, most mature GnRH neurons show the unusual characteristic of being excited by GABA. While many reports have provided much insight into the contribution of GABA to the activity of GnRH neurons, the precise physiological role of the excitatory action of GABA on GnRH neurons remains elusive. This brief review presents the current knowledge of the role of GABA signaling in GnRH neuronal activity. We also discuss the modulation of GABA signaling by neurotransmitters and neuromodulators and the functional consequence of GABAergic inputs to GnRH neurons in both the physiology and pathology of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Watanabe
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Atsuo Fukuda
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Junichi Nabekura
- Department of Developmental Physiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences Okazaki, Japan ; Core Research for Evolutionary Science and Technology, Japan Science and Technology Corporation Saitama, Japan ; Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate School for Advanced Study Hayama, Japan
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In vivo recordings of GnRH neuron firing reveal heterogeneity and dependence upon GABAA receptor signaling. J Neurosci 2013; 33:9394-401. [PMID: 23719807 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0533-13.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are the key cells regulating fertility in all mammalian species. The scattered distribution of these neurons has made investigation of their properties extremely difficult and the key goal of recording their electrical activity in vivo near impossible. The caudal-most extension of the GnRH neuron continuum brings some cells very close to the base of the brain at the level of the anterior hypothalamic area. Taking insight from this, we developed an experimental procedure in anesthetized GnRH-GFP mice that allows the electrical activity of these GnRH neurons to be recorded in vivo. On-cell recordings revealed that the majority of GnRH neurons (86%) were spontaneously active, exhibiting a range of firing patterns, although only a minority (15%) exhibited burst firing. Mean firing frequencies ranged from 0.06 to 3.65 Hz, with the most common interspike interval being ~500 ms. All GnRH neurons tested were activated by AMPA and kisspeptin. Whereas the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol evoked excitatory, inhibitory, or mixed effects on GnRH neuron firing, the GABAA receptor antagonist picrotoxin resulted in a consistent suppression of firing. These observations represent the first electrical recordings of GnRH neurons in vivo. They reveal that GnRH neurons in vivo exhibit considerable heterogeneity in their firing patterns with both similarities and differences to firing in vitro. These variable patterns of firing in vivo are found to be critically dependent upon ongoing GABAA receptor signaling.
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Bosch MA, Tonsfeldt KJ, Rønnekleiv OK. mRNA expression of ion channels in GnRH neurons: subtype-specific regulation by 17β-estradiol. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 367:85-97. [PMID: 23305677 PMCID: PMC3570747 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Burst firing of neurons optimizes neurotransmitter release. GnRH neurons exhibit burst firing activity and T-type calcium channels, which are vital for burst firing activity, are regulated by 17β-estradiol (E2) in GnRH neurons. To further elucidate ion channel expression and E2 regulation during positive and negative feedback on GnRH neurosecretion, we used single cell RT-PCR and real-time qPCR to quantify channel mRNA expression in GnRH neurons. GFP-GnRH neurons expressed numerous ion channels important for burst firing activity. E2-treatment sufficient to induce an LH surge increased mRNA expression of HCN1 channels, which underlie the pacemaker current, the calcium-permeable Ca(V)1.3, Ca(V)2.2, Ca(V)2.3 channels, and TRPC4 channels, which mediate the kisspeptin excitatory response. E2 also decreased mRNA expression of SK3 channels underlying the medium AHP current. Therefore, E2 exerts fundamental changes in ion channel expression in GnRH neurons, to prime them to respond to incoming stimuli with increased excitability at the time of the surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha A. Bosch
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Karen J. Tonsfeldt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Oline K. Rønnekleiv
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, OR 97005 USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
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Toescu EC, Dayanithi G. Neuroendocrine signalling: natural variations on a Ca2+ theme. Cell Calcium 2012; 51:207-11. [PMID: 22385835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2012.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This special issue on Ca(2+) signalling in neuroendocrine cells is an opportunity to assess, through a range of first-class review articles, the complex world of endocrine signalling, a complexity that is probably best captured by calling it "diversity in unity". The unity comes from the fact that all the endocrine cells are excitable cells, able to generate action potentials and are using Ca(2+) as an essential informational molecule, coupling cell stimulation with the activation of secretion, through the exocytotic process. The 'diversity' element, illustrated by almost all the reviews, stems from the modalities employed to achieve the increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) signal, the balance between the participation of Ca(2+) entry through the plasma membrane voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels and the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular Ca(2+) stores, and the cross-talk between the Ca(2+) and cyclic AMP signalling pathways.
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