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He F, Wu Z, Liu C, Zhu Y, Zhou Y, Tian E, Rosin-Arbesfeld R, Yang D, Wang MW, Zhu D. Targeting BCL9/BCL9L enhances antigen presentation by promoting conventional type 1 dendritic cell (cDC1) activation and tumor infiltration. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:139. [PMID: 38811552 PMCID: PMC11137111 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01838-9] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1) are the essential antigen-presenting DC subset in antitumor immunity. Suppressing B-cell lymphoma 9 and B-cell lymphoma 9-like (BCL9/BCL9L) inhibits tumor growth and boosts immune responses against cancer. However, whether oncogenic BCL9/BCL9L impairs antigen presentation in tumors is still not completely understood. Here, we show that targeting BCL9/BCL9L enhanced antigen presentation by stimulating cDC1 activation and infiltration into tumor. Pharmacological inhibition of BCL9/BCL9L with a novel inhibitor hsBCL9z96 or Bcl9/Bcl9l knockout mice markedly delayed tumor growth and promoted antitumor CD8+ T cell responses. Mechanistically, targeting BCL9/BCL9L promoted antigen presentation in tumors. This is due to the increase of cDC1 activation and tumor infiltration by the XCL1-XCR1 axis. Importantly, using single-cell transcriptomics analysis, we found that Bcl9/Bcl9l deficient cDC1 were superior to wild-type (WT) cDC1 at activation and antigen presentation via NF-κB/IRF1 signaling. Together, we demonstrate that targeting BCL9/BCL9L plays a crucial role in cDC1-modulated antigen presentation of tumor-derived antigens, as well as CD8+ T cell activation and tumor infiltration. Targeting BCL9/BCL9L to regulate cDC1 function and directly orchestrate a positive feedback loop necessary for optimal antitumor immunity could serve as a potential strategy to counter immune suppression and enhance cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglian He
- Department of Pharmacology, Minhang Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immune Therapy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhongen Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Minhang Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immune Therapy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Minhang Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immune Therapy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Minhang Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immune Therapy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- The National Center for Drug Screening and the CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Enming Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, Minhang Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immune Therapy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Rina Rosin-Arbesfeld
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dehua Yang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and the CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya, China.
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
| | - Di Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan, China.
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Advances in the Regulation of Mammalian Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Secretion. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041134. [PMID: 33921032 PMCID: PMC8071398 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reproduction of mammals is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Follicle stimulating hormone, as one of the gonadotropins secreted by the pituitary gland, plays an immeasurable role. This article mainly reviews the molecular basis and classical signaling pathways that regulate the synthesis and secretion of follicle stimulating hormone, and summarizes its internal molecular mechanism, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the research of mammalian reproduction regulation and the application of follicle stimulating hormone in production practice. Abstract Mammalian reproduction is mainly driven and regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, is a key regulator that ultimately affects animal fertility. As a dimeric glycoprotein hormone, the biological specificity of FSH is mainly determined by the β subunit. As research techniques are being continuously innovated, studies are exploring the underlying molecular mechanism regulating the secretion of mammalian FSH. This article will review the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways systematically regulating FSH synthesis and will present the latest hypothesis about the nuclear cross-talk among the various endocrine-induced pathways for transcriptional regulation of the FSH β subunit. This article will provide novel ideas and potential targets for the improved use of FSH in livestock breeding and therapeutic development.
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Xu G, Li J, Zhang D, Su T, Li X, Cui S. HSP70 inhibits pig pituitary gonadotrophin synthesis and secretion by regulating the corticotropin-releasing hormone signaling pathway and targeting SMAD3. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106533. [PMID: 32992141 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
High levels or long periods of stress have been shown to negatively impact cell homeostasis, including with respect to abnormalities in domestic animal reproduction, which are typically activated through the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, in which corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) are involved. In addition, CRH has been reported to inhibit pituitary gonadotrophin synthesis, and HSP70 is expressed in the pituitary gland. The aim of this study was to determine whether HSP70 was involved in regulating gonadotrophin synthesis and secretion by mediating the CRH pathway in the porcine pituitary gland. Our results showed that HSP70 was highly expressed in the porcine pituitary gland, with over 90% of gonadotrophic cells testing HSP70 positive. The results of functional studies demonstrated that the HSP70 inducer decreased FSH and LH levels in cultured porcine primary pituitary cells, whereas an HSP70 inhibitor blocked the negative effect of CRH on gonadotrophin synthesis and secretion. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that HSP70 inhibited gonadotrophin synthesis and secretion by blocking GnRH-induced SMAD3 phosphorylation, which acts as the targeting molecule of HSP70, while CRH upregulated HSP70 expression through the PKC and ERK pathways. Collectively, these data demonstrate that HSP70 inhibits pituitary gonadotrophin synthesis and secretion by regulating the CRH signaling pathway and inhibiting SMAD3 phosphorylation, which are important for our understanding the mechanisms of the stress affects domestic animal reproductive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - J Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100700, China
| | - D Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - T Su
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - X Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - S Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China.
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4
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Qian H, Guan X. Follicle-stimulating hormone impairs dental pulp stem cells odontogenic differentiation. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:10621-10635. [PMID: 32725798 PMCID: PMC7521281 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to bone, the dentin‐pulp complex is also influenced by menopause, showing a decreased regenerative capacity. High levels of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) during menopause could directly regulate bone metabolism. Here, the role of FSH in the odontogenic differentiation of the dentin‐pulp complex was investigated. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were isolated. CCK‐8 assays, cell apoptosis assays, Western blotting (WB), real‐time RT‐PCR, alkaline phosphatase activity assays, and Alizarin Red S staining were used to clarify the effects of FSH on the proliferation, apoptosis and odontogenic differentiation of the DPSCs. MAPK pathway‐related factors were explored by WB assays. FSH and its inhibitor were used in OVX rats combined with a direct pulp‐capping model. HE and immunohistochemistry were used to detect reparative dentin formation and related features. The results indicated that FSH significantly decreased the odontogenic differentiation of the DPSCs without affecting cell proliferation and apoptosis. Moreover, FSH significantly activated the JNK signalling pathway, and JNK inhibitor partly rescued the inhibitory effect of FSH on DPSC differentiation. In vivo, FSH treatment attenuated the dentin bridge formation and mineralization‐related protein expression in the OVX rats. Our findings indicated that FSH reduced the odontogenic capacity of the DPSCs and was involved in reparative dentinogenesis during menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Qian
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University & Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyue Guan
- Department of Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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5
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Schang G, Ongaro L, Schultz H, Wang Y, Zhou X, Brûlé E, Boehm U, Lee SJ, Bernard DJ. Murine FSH Production Depends on the Activin Type II Receptors ACVR2A and ACVR2B. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5818077. [PMID: 32270195 PMCID: PMC7286621 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Activins are selective regulators of FSH production by pituitary gonadotrope cells. In a gonadotrope-like cell line, LβT2, activins stimulate FSH via the activin type IIA receptor (ACVR2A) and/or bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR2). Consistent with these observations, FSH is greatly reduced, though still present, in global Acvr2a knockout mice. In contrast, FSH production is unaltered in gonadotrope-specific Bmpr2 knockout mice. In light of these results, we questioned whether an additional type II receptor might mediate the actions of activins or related TGF-β ligands in gonadotropes. We focused on the activin type IIB receptor (ACVR2B), even though it does not mediate activin actions in LβT2 cells. Using a Cre-lox strategy, we ablated Acvr2a and/or Acvr2b in murine gonadotropes. The resulting conditional knockout (cKO) animals were compared with littermate controls. Acvr2a cKO (cKO-A) females were subfertile (~70% reduced litter size), cKO-A males were hypogonadal, and both sexes showed marked decreases in serum FSH levels compared with controls. Acvr2b cKO (cKO-B) females were subfertile (~20% reduced litter size), cKO-B males had a moderate decrease in testicular weight, but only males showed a significant decrease in serum FSH levels relative to controls. Simultaneous deletion of both Acvr2a and Acvr2b in gonadotropes led to profound hypogonadism and FSH deficiency in both sexes; females were acyclic and sterile. Collectively, these data demonstrate that ACVR2A and ACVR2B are the critical type II receptors through which activins or related TGF-β ligands induce FSH production in mice in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Hailey Schultz
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Emilie Brûlé
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory, Farmington, Connecticut
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard, PhD, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler room 1320, Montreal H3G 1Y6, QC, Canada. E-mail:
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Edwards W, Raetzman LT. Complex integration of intrinsic and peripheral signaling is required for pituitary gland development. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:504-513. [PMID: 29757344 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordination of pituitary development is complicated and requires input from multiple cellular processes. Recent research has provided insight into key molecular determinants that govern cell fate specification in the pituitary. Moreover, increasing research aimed to identify, characterize, and functionally describe the presumptive pituitary stem cell population has allowed for a better understanding of the processes that govern endocrine cell differentiation in the developing pituitary. The culmination of this research has led to the ability of investigators to recapitulate some of embryonic pituitary development in vitro, the first steps to developing novel regenerative therapies for pituitary diseases. In this current review, we cover the major players in pituitary stem/progenitor cell function and maintenance, and the key molecular determinants of endocrine cell specification. In addition, we discuss the contribution of peripheral hormonal regulation of pituitary gland development, an understudied area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Edwards
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Lori T Raetzman
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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7
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Das N, Kumar TR. Molecular regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis, secretion and action. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R131-R155. [PMID: 29437880 PMCID: PMC5851872 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays fundamental roles in male and female fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein expressed by gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary. The hormone-specific FSHβ-subunit is non-covalently associated with the common α-subunit that is also present in the luteinizing hormone (LH), another gonadotrophic hormone secreted by gonadotrophs and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by thyrotrophs. Several decades of research led to the purification, structural characterization and physiological regulation of FSH in a variety of species including humans. With the advent of molecular tools, availability of immortalized gonadotroph cell lines and genetically modified mouse models, our knowledge on molecular mechanisms of FSH regulation has tremendously expanded. Several key players that regulate FSH synthesis, sorting, secretion and action in gonads and extragonadal tissues have been identified in a physiological setting. Novel post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms have also been identified that provide additional layers of regulation mediating FSH homeostasis. Recombinant human FSH analogs hold promise for a variety of clinical applications, whereas blocking antibodies against FSH may prove efficacious for preventing age-dependent bone loss and adiposity. It is anticipated that several exciting new discoveries uncovering all aspects of FSH biology will soon be forthcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandana Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Author for Correspondence: T. Rajendra Kumar, PhD, Edgar L. and Patricia M. Makowski Professor, Associate Vice-Chair of Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8613, Research Complex 2, Room # 15-3000B, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA, Tel: 303-724-8689,
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8
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Li Y, Schang G, Boehm U, Deng CX, Graff J, Bernard DJ. SMAD3 Regulates Follicle-stimulating Hormone Synthesis by Pituitary Gonadotrope Cells in Vivo. J Biol Chem 2016; 292:2301-2314. [PMID: 27994055 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.759167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an essential regulator of fertility in females and of quantitatively normal spermatogenesis in males. Pituitary-derived activins are thought to act as major stimulators of FSH synthesis by gonadotrope cells. In vitro, activins signal via SMAD3, SMAD4, and forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) to regulate transcription of the FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb). Consistent with this model, gonadotrope-specific Smad4 or Foxl2 knock-out mice have greatly reduced FSH and are subfertile. The role of SMAD3 in vivo is unresolved; however, residual FSH production in Smad4 conditional knock-out mice may derive from partial compensation by SMAD3 and its ability to bind DNA in the absence of SMAD4. To test this hypothesis and determine the role of SMAD3 in FSH biosynthesis, we generated mice lacking both the SMAD3 DNA binding domain and SMAD4 specifically in gonadotropes. Conditional knock-out females were hypogonadal, acyclic, and sterile and had thread-like uteri; their ovaries lacked antral follicles and corpora lutea. Knock-out males were fertile but had reduced testis weights and epididymal sperm counts. These phenotypes were consistent with those of Fshb knock-out mice. Indeed, pituitary Fshb mRNA levels were nearly undetectable in both male and female knock-outs. In contrast, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor mRNA levels were significantly elevated in knock-outs in both sexes. Interestingly, luteinizing hormone production was altered in a sex-specific fashion. Overall, our analyses demonstrate that SMAD3 is required for FSH synthesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Li
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Saarland School of Medicine, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China, and
| | - Jonathan Graff
- the Department of Developmental Biology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada,
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9
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Zhou X, Wang Y, Ongaro L, Boehm U, Kaartinen V, Mishina Y, Bernard DJ. Normal gonadotropin production and fertility in gonadotrope-specific Bmpr1a knockout mice. J Endocrinol 2016; 229:331-41. [PMID: 27029473 PMCID: PMC5012900 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis is regulated by transforming growth factorβsuperfamily ligands, most notably the activins and inhibins. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) also regulate FSHβ subunit (Fshb) expression in immortalized murine gonadotrope-like LβT2 cells and in primary murine or ovine primary pituitary cultures. BMP2 signals preferentially via the BMP type I receptor, BMPR1A, to stimulate murine Fshb transcription in vitro Here, we used a Cre-lox approach to assess BMPR1A's role in FSH synthesis in mice in vivo Gonadotrope-specific Bmpr1a knockout animals developed normally and had reproductive organ weights comparable with those of controls. Knockouts were fertile, with normal serum gonadotropins and pituitary gonadotropin subunit mRNA expression. Cre-mediated recombination of the floxed Bmpr1a allele was efficient and specific, as indicated by PCR analysis of diverse tissues and isolated gonadotrope cells. Furthermore, BMP2 stimulation of inhibitor of DNA binding 3 expression was impaired in gonadotropes isolated from Bmpr1a knockout mice, confirming the loss of functional receptor protein in these cells. Treatment of purified gonadotropes with small-molecule inhibitors of BMPR1A (and the related receptors BMPR1B and ACVR1) suppressed Fshb mRNA expression, suggesting that an autocrine BMP-like molecule might regulate FSH synthesis. However, deletion of Bmpr1a and Acvr1 in cultured pituitary cells did not alter Fshb expression, indicating that the inhibitors had off-target effects. In sum, BMPs or related ligands acting via BMPR1A or ACVR1 are unlikely to play direct physiological roles in FSH synthesis by murine gonadotrope cells.
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MESH Headings
- Activin Receptors, Type I/deficiency
- Activin Receptors, Type I/genetics
- Activin Receptors, Type I/physiology
- Animals
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/metabolism
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/antagonists & inhibitors
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/deficiency
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/genetics
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/physiology
- Cells, Cultured
- Female
- Fertility/physiology
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone, beta Subunit/biosynthesis
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone, beta Subunit/genetics
- Gonadotrophs/drug effects
- Gonadotrophs/physiology
- Gonadotropins, Pituitary/biosynthesis
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada Centre for Research in Reproduction and DevelopmentMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada Centre for Research in Reproduction and DevelopmentMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada Centre for Research in Reproduction and DevelopmentMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Vesa Kaartinen
- Department of Biologic and Materials SciencesSchool of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yuji Mishina
- Department of Biologic and Materials SciencesSchool of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada Centre for Research in Reproduction and DevelopmentMcGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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10
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Fortin J, Ongaro L, Li Y, Tran S, Lamba P, Wang Y, Zhou X, Bernard DJ. Minireview: Activin Signaling in Gonadotropes: What Does the FOX say… to the SMAD? Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:963-77. [PMID: 25942106 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The activins were discovered and named based on their abilities to stimulate FSH secretion and FSHβ (Fshb) subunit expression by pituitary gonadotrope cells. According to subsequent in vitro observations, activins also stimulate the transcription of the GnRH receptor (Gnrhr) and the activin antagonist, follistatin (Fst). Thus, not only do activins stimulate FSH directly, they have the potential to regulate both FSH and LH indirectly by modulating gonadotrope sensitivity to hypothalamic GnRH. Moreover, activins may negatively regulate their own actions by stimulating the production of one of their principal antagonists. Here, we describe our current understanding of the mechanisms through which activins regulate Fshb, Gnrhr, and Fst transcription in vitro. The activin signaling molecules SMAD3 and SMAD4 appear to partner with the winged-helix/forkhead transcription factor, forkhead box L2 (FOXL2), to regulate expression of all 3 genes. However, in vivo data paint a different picture. Although conditional deletion of Foxl2 and/or Smad4 in murine gonadotropes produces impairments in FSH synthesis and secretion as well as in pituitary Fst expression, Gnrhr mRNA levels are either unperturbed or increased in these animals. Surprisingly, gonadotrope-specific deletion of Smad3 alone or with Smad2 does not impair FSH production or fertility; however, mice harboring these mutations may express a DNA binding-deficient, but otherwise functional, SMAD3 protein. Collectively, the available data firmly establish roles for FOXL2 and SMAD4 in Fshb and Fst expression in gonadotrope cells, whereas SMAD3's role requires further investigation. Gnrhr expression, in contrast, appears to be FOXL2, SMAD4, and, perhaps, activin independent in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Yining Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Stella Tran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Pankaj Lamba
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
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11
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Choi YS, Lee HJ, Ku CR, Cho YH, Seo MR, Lee YJ, Lee EJ. FoxO1 is a negative regulator of FSHβ gene expression in basal and GnRH-stimulated conditions in female. Endocrinology 2014; 155:2277-86. [PMID: 24437485 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The importance of forkhead box class O (FoxO) proteins in reproductive endocrinology has been confirmed by age-dependent infertility in females in a FoxO3a-knockout mouse model. In this study, FoxO1 was detected in gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary. Overexpression of FoxO1 in primary pituitary cells decreased FSHβ gene expression in both basal and GnRH-stimulated conditions, and this result was replicated by the human FSHβ promoter activity. Although direct binding of FoxO1 to FoxO-binding element (FBE) (at -124 to -119 bp of the human FSHβ promoter) was not detected in an electrophoretic mobility shift assay, a DNA pull-down assay and transfection study using the mutant FBE reporter vector revealed that FBE is necessary in FSHβ suppression by FoxO1, suggestive of other cofactor requirements. GnRH stimulated the phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathway, which induced posttranslational modification of FoxO1 and retained it in the cytoplasm. We also confirmed this result in primary cell cultures; most of the FoxO1 was detected in the cytoplasm when treated with GnRH but in the nucleus when the phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathway was inhibited. These findings suggest that FoxO1 is regulated by the GnRH signaling pathway and functions as a negative regulator of FSHβ gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Suk Choi
- Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine Research (Y.-S.C., H.J.L., C.R.K., Y.H.C., M.R.S., E.J.L.), Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science (Y.-S.C., H.J.L., E.J.L.), and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Y.J.L.), Yonsei University College of Medicine, 120-752, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Wang Y, Ho CC, Bang E, Rejon CA, Libasci V, Pertchenko P, Hébert TE, Bernard DJ. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 stimulates noncanonical SMAD2/3 signaling via the BMP type 1A receptor in gonadotrope-like cells: implications for FSH synthesis. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1970-81. [PMID: 24601881 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
FSH is an essential regulator of mammalian reproduction. Its synthesis by pituitary gonadotrope cells is regulated by multiple endocrine and paracrine factors, including TGFβ superfamily ligands, such as the activins and inhibins. Activins stimulate FSH synthesis via transcriptional regulation of its β-subunit gene (Fshb). More recently, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) were shown to stimulate murine Fshb transcription alone and in synergy with activins. BMP2 signals via its canonical type I receptor, BMPR1A (or activin receptor-like kinase 3 [ALK3]), and SMAD1 and SMAD5 to stimulate transcription of inhibitor of DNA binding proteins. Inhibitor of DNA binding proteins then potentiate the actions of activin-stimulated SMAD3 to regulate the Fshb gene in the gonadotrope-like LβT2 cell line. Here, we report the unexpected observation that BMP2 also stimulates the SMAD2/3 pathway in these cells and that it does so directly via ALK3. Indeed, this novel, noncanonical ALK3 activity is completely independent of ALK4, ALK5, and ALK7, the type I receptors most often associated with SMAD2/3 pathway activation. Induction of the SMAD2/3 pathway by ALK3 is dependent upon its own previous activation by associated type II receptors, which phosphorylate conserved serine and threonine residues in the ALK3 juxtamembrane glycine-serine-rich domain. ALK3 signaling via SMAD3 is necessary for the receptor to stimulate Fshb transcription, whereas its activation of the SMAD1/5/8 pathway alone is insufficient. These data challenge current dogma that ALK3 and other BMP type I receptors signal via SMAD1, SMAD5, and SMAD8 and not SMAD2 or SMAD3. Moreover, they suggest that BMPs and activins may use similar intracellular signaling mechanisms to activate the murine Fshb promoter in immortalized gonadotrope-like cells.
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MESH Headings
- Activins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Activins/metabolism
- Animals
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/agonists
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/genetics
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/metabolism
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/agonists
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/antagonists & inhibitors
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/genetics
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I/metabolism
- Cell Line
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone, beta Subunit/biosynthesis
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone, beta Subunit/genetics
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone, beta Subunit/metabolism
- Gene Silencing
- Genes, Reporter
- Gonadotrophs/metabolism
- Humans
- Mice
- Phosphorylation
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- RNA, Small Interfering
- Recombinant Proteins/chemistry
- Recombinant Proteins/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Smad2 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- Smad2 Protein/genetics
- Smad2 Protein/metabolism
- Smad3 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- Smad3 Protein/genetics
- Smad3 Protein/metabolism
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Departments of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Y.W., C.C.H., E.B., C.A.R., V.L., P.P., T.E.H., D.J.B.), Oncology (C.A.R.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.J.B.), and Anatomy and Cell Biology (D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6
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13
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Fortin J, Boehm U, Weinstein MB, Graff JM, Bernard DJ. Follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis and fertility are intact in mice lacking SMAD3 DNA binding activity and SMAD2 in gonadotrope cells. FASEB J 2013; 28:1474-85. [PMID: 24308975 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-237818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The activin/inhibin system regulates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and release by pituitary gonadotrope cells in mammals. In vitro cell line data suggest that activins stimulate FSH β-subunit (Fshb) transcription via complexes containing the receptor-regulated SMAD proteins SMAD2 and SMAD3. Here, we used a Cre-loxP approach to determine the necessity for SMAD2 and/or SMAD3 in FSH synthesis in vivo. Surprisingly, mice with conditional mutations in both Smad2 and Smad3 specifically in gonadotrope cells are fertile and produce FSH at quantitatively normal levels. Notably, however, we discovered that the recombined Smad3 allele produces a transcript that encodes the entirety of the SMAD3 C-terminal Mad homology 2 (MH2) domain. This protein behaves similarly to full-length SMAD3 in Fshb transcriptional assays. As the truncated protein lacks the N-terminal Mad homology 1 (MH1) domain, these results show that SMAD3 DNA-binding activity as well as SMAD2 are dispensable for normal FSH synthesis in vivo. Furthermore, the observation that deletion of proximal exons does not remove all SMAD3 function may facilitate interpretation of divergent phenotypes previously described in different Smad3 knockout mouse lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- 1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Rm. 1315, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada. J.F.,
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14
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Bernard DJ, Tran S. Mechanisms of activin-stimulated FSH synthesis: the story of a pig and a FOX. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:78. [PMID: 23426431 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.107797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins were discovered and, in fact, named more than a quarter century ago based on their abilities to stimulate pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and secretion. However, it is only in the last decade that we have finally come to understand their underlying mechanisms of action in gonadotroph cells. In this minireview, we chronicle the research that led to the recent discovery of forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) as an essential mediator of activin-regulated FSH beta subunit (Fshb) transcription in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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15
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Rejon CA, Ho CC, Wang Y, Zhou X, Bernard DJ, Hébert TE. Cycloheximide inhibits follicle-stimulating hormone β subunit transcription by blocking de novo synthesis of the labile activin type II receptor in gonadotrope cells. Cell Signal 2013; 25:1403-12. [PMID: 23499904 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2013.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), play essential roles in the regulation of vertebrate reproduction. Activins and inhibins have opposing actions on FSH (but not LH) synthesis, either inducing or inhibiting transcription of the FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb). The translational inhibitor cycloheximide (CHX) produces inhibin-like effects in cultured pituitary cells, selectively suppressing FSH production. Using the murine gonadotrope-like cell line, LβT2, as a model, we tested the hypothesis that a component of the activin pathway is highly labile in gonadotrope cells and that its rapid loss following CHX treatment impairs activin-stimulated Fshb transcription. Treatment of cells with CHX for 6h, but not 1h, blocked activin A-stimulated Fshb transcription. Pre-treatment of LβT2 cells with CHX for as few as 2-3h inhibited activin A-stimulated SMAD2/3 phosphorylation without altering total SMAD2/3 protein levels. These data indicated that CHX affects activin signalling upstream of SMAD proteins, most likely at the receptor level. Indeed, CHX rapidly reduced activin A binding to LβT2 cells. We went on to show that activin A signals via the type II receptor ACVR2, rather than ACVR2B, to regulate Fshb transcription and that the receptor has a half life of ~2h in LβT2 cells. The mechanism of ACVR2 turnover remains undefined, but appears to be ligand-, proteasome-, and lysosome-independent. Collectively, these data indicate that CHX produces inhibin-like effects in gonadotropes by preventing de novo synthesis of the highly labile ACVR2, thereby blocking activin signaling to the Fshb promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlis A Rejon
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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16
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Ridder DA, Schwaninger M. TAK1 inhibition for treatment of cerebral ischemia. Exp Neurol 2012; 239:68-72. [PMID: 23022457 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2012.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
TGFβ-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), a MAP3 kinase, is involved in at least five signaling cascades that modulate ischemic brain damage. Inhibition of TAK1 may therefore be an efficient way to interfere with multiple mechanisms in ischemic stroke. Indeed, a recent publication in Experimental Neurology confirmed that TAK1 inhibition by 5Z-7-oxozeaenol is neuroprotective. The beneficial effect of 5Z-7-oxozeaenol was associated with a reduced activation of Jun kinase that leads to inflammation and apoptosis. Recently, other TAK1 inhibitors were developed suggesting that TAK1 may prove as an efficient therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases if safety issues are not limiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk A Ridder
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Lübeck, Germany
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