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Talbi R, Stincic TL, Ferrari K, Hae CJ, Walec K, Medve E, Gerutshang A, León S, McCarthy EA, Rønnekleiv OK, Kelly MJ, Navarro VM. POMC neurons control fertility through differential signaling of MC4R in Kisspeptin neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.18.580873. [PMID: 38915534 PMCID: PMC11195098 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.18.580873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Inactivating mutations in the melanocortin 4 receptor ( MC4R ) gene cause monogenic obesity. Interestingly, female patients also display various degrees of reproductive disorders, in line with the subfertile phenotype of MC4RKO female mice. However, the cellular mechanisms by which MC4R regulates reproduction are unknown. Kiss1 neurons directly stimulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release through two distinct populations; the Kiss1 ARH neurons, controlling GnRH pulses, and the sexually dimorphic Kiss1 AVPV/PeN neurons controlling the preovulatory LH surge. Here, we show that Mc4r expressed in Kiss1 neurons is required for fertility in females. In vivo , deletion of Mc4r from Kiss1 neurons in female mice replicates the reproductive impairments of MC4RKO mice without inducing obesity. Conversely, reinsertion of Mc4r in Kiss1 neurons of MC4R null mice restores estrous cyclicity and LH pulsatility without reducing their obese phenotype. In vitro , we dissect the specific action of MC4R on Kiss1 ARH vs Kiss1 AVPV/PeN neurons and show that MC4R activation excites Kiss1 ARH neurons through direct synaptic actions. In contrast, Kiss1 AVPV/PeN neurons are normally inhibited by MC4R activation except under elevated estradiol levels, thus facilitating the activation of Kiss1 AVPV/PeN neurons to induce the LH surge driving ovulation in females. Our findings demonstrate that POMC ARH neurons acting through MC4R, directly regulate reproductive function in females by stimulating the "pulse generator" activity of Kiss1 ARH neurons and restricting the activation of Kiss1 AVPV/PeN neurons to the time of the estradiol-dependent LH surge, and thus unveil a novel pathway of the metabolic regulation of fertility by the melanocortin system.
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Qiu J, Voliotis M, Bosch MA, Li XF, Zweifel LS, Tsaneva-Atanasova K, O'Byrne KT, Rønnekleiv OK, Kelly MJ. Estradiol elicits distinct firing patterns in arcuate nucleus kisspeptin neurons of females through altering ion channel conductances. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.20.581121. [PMID: 38915596 PMCID: PMC11195100 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.20.581121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Hypothalamic kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons are vital for pubertal development and reproduction. Arcuate nucleus Kiss1 (Kiss1 ARH ) neurons are responsible for the pulsatile release of Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone (GnRH). In females, the behavior of Kiss1 ARH neurons, expressing Kiss1, Neurokinin B (NKB), and Dynorphin (Dyn), varies throughout the ovarian cycle. Studies indicate that 17β-estradiol (E2) reduces peptide expression but increases Vglut2 mRNA and glutamate neurotransmission in these neurons, suggesting a shift from peptidergic to glutamatergic signaling. To investigate this shift, we combined transcriptomics, electrophysiology, and mathematical modeling. Our results demonstrate that E2 treatment upregulates the mRNA expression of voltage-activated calcium channels, elevating the whole-cell calcium current and that contribute to high-frequency burst firing. Additionally, E2 treatment decreased the mRNA levels of Canonical Transient Receptor Potential (TPRC) 5 and G protein-coupled K + (GIRK) channels. When TRPC5 channels in Kiss1 ARH neurons were deleted using CRISPR, the slow excitatory postsynaptic potential (sEPSP) was eliminated. Our data enabled us to formulate a biophysically realistic mathematical model of the Kiss1 ARH neuron, suggesting that E2 modifies ionic conductances in Kiss1 ARH neurons, enabling the transition from high frequency synchronous firing through NKB-driven activation of TRPC5 channels to a short bursting mode facilitating glutamate release. In a low E2 milieu, synchronous firing of Kiss1 ARH neurons drives pulsatile release of GnRH, while the transition to burst firing with high, preovulatory levels of E2 would facilitate the GnRH surge through its glutamatergic synaptic connection to preoptic Kiss1 neurons.
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Qin KR, Mertens E, Tempo JA, Perera M, Brennan J. Could menopause drug fezolinetant show promise for vasomotor symptoms associated with androgen deprivation therapy? Transl Androl Urol 2024; 13:920-922. [PMID: 38855582 PMCID: PMC11157406 DOI: 10.21037/tau-24-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kirby R. Qin
- Department of Urology, Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eveline Mertens
- Department of Urology, Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - Jake A. Tempo
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marlon Perera
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Janelle Brennan
- Department of Urology, Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
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Avendaño MS, Perdices-Lopez C, Guerrero-Ruiz Y, Ruiz-Pino F, Rodriguez-Sanchez AB, Sanchez-Tapia MJ, Sobrino V, Pineda R, Barroso A, Correa-Sáez A, Lara-Chica M, Fernandez-Garcia JC, García-Redondo AB, Hernanz R, Ruiz-Cruz M, Garcia-Galiano D, Pitteloud N, Calzado MA, Briones AM, Vázquez MJ, Tena-Sempere M. The evolutionary conserved miR-137/325 tandem mediates obesity-induced hypogonadism and metabolic comorbidities by repressing hypothalamic kisspeptin. Metabolism 2024:155932. [PMID: 38729600 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity-induced hypogonadism (OIH) is a prevalent, but often neglected condition in men, which aggravates the metabolic complications of overweight. While hypothalamic suppression of Kiss1-encoded kisspeptin has been suggested to contribute to OIH, the molecular mechanisms for such repression in obesity, and the therapeutic implications thereof, remain unknown. METHODS A combination of bioinformatic, expression and functional analyses was implemented, assessing the role of the evolutionary-conserved miRNAs, miR-137 and miR-325, in mediating obesity-induced suppression of hypothalamic kisspeptin, as putative mechanism of central hypogonadism and metabolic comorbidities. The implications of such miR-137/325-kisspeptin interplay for therapeutic intervention in obesity were also explored using preclinical OIH models. RESULTS MiR-137/325 repressed human KISS1 3'-UTR in-vitro and inhibited hypothalamic kisspeptin content in male rats, while miR-137/325 expression was up-regulated, and Kiss1/kisspeptin decreased, in the medio-basal hypothalamus of obese rats. Selective over-expression of miR-137 in Kiss1 neurons reduced Kiss1/ kisspeptin and partially replicated reproductive and metabolic alterations of OIH in lean mice. Conversely, interference of the repressive actions of miR-137/325 selectively on Kiss1 3'-UTR in vivo, using target-site blockers (TSB), enhanced kisspeptin content and reversed central hypogonadism in obese rats, together with improvement of glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and cardiovascular and inflammatory markers, despite persistent exposure to obesogenic diet. Reversal of OIH by TSB miR-137/325 was more effective than chronic kisspeptin or testosterone treatments in obese rats. CONCLUSIONS Our data disclose that the miR-137/325-Kisspeptin repressive interaction is a major player in the pathogenesis of obesity-induced hypogonadism and a putative druggable target for improved management of this condition and its metabolic comorbidities in men suffering obesity. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Up to half of the men suffering obesity display also central hypogonadism, an often neglected complication of overweight that can aggravate the clinical course of obesity and its complications. The mechanisms for such obesity-induced hypogonadism remain poorly defined. We show here that the evolutionary conserved miR137/miR325 tandem centrally mediates obesity-induced hypogonadism via repression of the reproductive-stimulatory signal, kisspeptin; this may represent an amenable druggable target for improved management of hypogonadism and other metabolic complications of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María S Avendaño
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Cecilia Perdices-Lopez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Yolanda Guerrero-Ruiz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Ruiz-Pino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Ana B Rodriguez-Sanchez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María J Sanchez-Tapia
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Verónica Sobrino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Rafael Pineda
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Alexia Barroso
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Alejandro Correa-Sáez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Maribel Lara-Chica
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - José C Fernandez-Garcia
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Córdoba, Spain; Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Ana B García-Redondo
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Hernanz
- Instituto Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Basic Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Ruiz-Cruz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - David Garcia-Galiano
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Department of Service of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marco A Calzado
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ana M Briones
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María J Vázquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Córdoba, Spain.
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Witkowski S, White Q, Shreyer S, Brown DE, Sievert LL. The influence of habitual physical activity and sedentary behavior on objective and subjective hot flashes at midlife. Menopause 2024; 31:381-389. [PMID: 38530999 PMCID: PMC11052676 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002341] [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] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate relationships between physical activity, sedentary time, and hot flashes during both waking and sleeping periods using concurrent objective and subjective measures of hot flashes in midlife women. METHODS Women aged 45 to 55 years (n = 196) provided self-reported data on physical activity and underwent 24 hours of hot flash monitoring using sternal skin conductance. Participants used event marking and logs to indicate when hot flashes were perceived. Wake and sleep periods were defined by actigraphy. Mean ambient temperature and humidity were recorded during the study period. Generalized linear regression modeling was used to evaluate the effect of physical activity types and sedentary time on hot flash outcomes. Isotemporal substitution modeling was used to study the effect of replacing sedentary time with activity variables on hot flash frequency. RESULTS Modeled results indicated that increasing sitting by 1 hour was associated with a 7% increase in the rate of objectively measured but not subjectively reported hot flashes during sleep. Replacing 1 hour of sitting with 1 hour of vigorous activity was associated with a 100% increase in subjectively reported but not objectively measured waking hot flashes. There was little evidence for an effect of temperature or humidity on any hot flash outcome. CONCLUSIONS These data provide support for relations between sedentary time, physical activity, and hot flashes and highlight the importance of using objective and subjective assessments to better understand the 24-hour hot flash experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Witkowski
- From the Department of Exercise and Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Quinn White
- From the Department of Exercise and Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Sofiya Shreyer
- Department of Anthropology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
| | - Daniel E Brown
- Department of Anthropology, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI
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Akhtar SMM, Ali A, Khan MS, Khan V, Fareed A, Saleem SZ, Mumtaz M, Ahsan MN, Iqbal S, Asghar MS. Efficacy and safety of fezolinetant for vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38563867 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, are highly prevalent and burdensome for women experiencing menopausal transition. Fezolinetant, a selective neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) antagonist, is a potential therapeutic option for mitigating VMS. OBJECTIVES Our aim is to assess the efficacy and evaluate the safety profile of fezolinetant compared with placebo in post-menopausal women suffering from VMS, by pooling all the relevant data and reflecting the most current evidence. SEARCH STRATEGY/SELECTION CRITERIA An extensive literature search was performed in the PubMed, Medline and Cochrane Library databases from inception until June 2023 to identify relevant trials. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for continuous outcomes. Risk ratios (RRs) were calculated for dichotomous outcomes. All statistical analyses were performed using R Statistical Software. MAIN RESULTS A total of six randomized controlled trials were added. For the frequency of daily VMS, the combined pooled result favored the fezolinetant group over placebo (MD -2.38, 95% CI -2.64 to -2.12; P < 0.001, I2 = 0%). For the severity of daily VMS, fezolinetant was again found to be superior to the placebo group (MD -0.40, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.29; P < 0.001, I2 = 70%). Fezolinetant (120 mg) consistently demonstrated a significant reduction in the severity of daily moderate/severe VMS compared with other doses at both 4 and 12 weeks. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of Greene Climacteric Scale (GCS), PROMIS the Sleep Disturbance Short Form 8b and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQoL) scores indicated significant improvement with fezolinetant. No significant difference in efficacy of fezolinetant at 4 and 12 weeks were observed in any outcome. As for safety, no significant differences in the treatment emergent adverse events at 12 weeks were found between fezolinetant and placebo. CONCLUSIONS Our study significantly favors fezolinetant over placebo regarding the primary efficacy outcomes of daily moderate to severe VMS frequency and severity, including PROs, while both the groups are comparable in terms of treatment emergent adverse events. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abraish Ali
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Vareesha Khan
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Areeba Fareed
- Department of Medicine, Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Zia Saleem
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Munazza Mumtaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Sadia Iqbal
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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Bonga KN, Mishra A, Maiti R, Padhy BM, Meher BR, Srinivasan A. Efficacy and Safety of Fezolinetant for the Treatment of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: A Meta-analysis. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 143:393-402. [PMID: 38227939 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and adverse events of fezolinetant for treating vasomotor symptoms (VMS) of menopause. DATA SOURCES PubMed/MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov , EMBASE, Cochrane Database, Scopus, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched through June 2023 for publications and randomized controlled trials on fezolinetant compared with placebo in menopausal women who experienced moderate-to-severe VMS. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION Our literature search identified 330 articles, of which five studies with six reports were included in our meta-analysis per our eligibility criteria. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS The risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane's RoB 2 (Risk of Bias version 2) tool, quality of evidence was graded using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach, and outcome measures data for effect size were pooled in random-effects model and rated. A total of 2,168 participants from five randomized clinical trials (six reports) were included. Fezolinetant significantly lowered VMS frequency, with pooled mean difference of 2.62 (95% CI, 1.84-3.41). The pooled mean difference for fezolinetant compared with placebo for the MENQOL (Menopause-Specific Quality of Life) measure was -0.60 (95% CI, -0.92 to -0.28), and the mean percentage improvement in VMS frequency was 22.51% (95% CI, 15.35-29.67). Fezolinetant was associated with improvement in sleep quality when compared with placebo. CONCLUSION Fezolinetant is effective in lowering moderate-to-severe VMS frequency and sleep disturbances in postmenopausal women. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO, CRD42023427616.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Nikhila Bonga
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Agus S, Yavuz Y, Atasoy D, Yilmaz B. Postweaning Social Isolation Alters Puberty Onset by Suppressing Electrical Activity of Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons. Neuroendocrinology 2024; 114:439-452. [PMID: 38271999 PMCID: PMC11098025 DOI: 10.1159/000535721] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Postweaning social isolation (PWSI) in rodents is an advanced psychosocial stress model in early life. Some psychosocial stress, such as restrain and isolation, disrupts reproductive physiology in young and adult periods. Mechanisms of early-life stress effects on central regulation of reproduction need to be elucidated. We have investigated the effects of PWSI on function of arcuate kisspeptin (ARCKISS1) neurons by using electrophysiological techniques combining with monitoring of puberty onset and estrous cycle in male and female Kiss1-Cre mice. METHODS Female mice were monitored for puberty onset with vaginal opening examination during social isolation. After isolation, the estrous cycle of female mice was monitored with vaginal cytology. Anxiety-like behavior of mice was determined by an elevated plus maze test. Effects of PWSI on electrophysiology of ARCKISS1 neurons were investigated by the patch clamp method after intracranial injection of AAV-GFP virus into arcuate nucleus of Kiss1-Cre mice after the isolation period. RESULTS We found that both male and female isolated mice showed anxiety-like behavior. PWSI caused delay in vaginal opening and extension in estrous cycle length. Spontaneous-firing rates of ARCKISS1 neurons were significantly lower in the isolated male and female mice. The peak amplitude of inhibitory postsynaptic currents to ARCKISS1 neurons was higher in the isolated mice, while frequency of excitatory postsynaptic currents was higher in group-housed mice. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that PWSI alters pre- and postpubertal reproductive physiology through metabolic and electrophysiological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Agus
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Yavuz
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Atasoy
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Bayram Yilmaz
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
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Duncan L, Deisseroth K. Are novel treatments for brain disorders hiding in plain sight? Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:276-281. [PMID: 37422511 PMCID: PMC10700299 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric diseases are strongly influenced by genetics, but genetically guided treatments have been slow to develop, and precise molecular mechanisms remain mysterious. Although individual locations in the genome tend to not contribute powerfully to psychiatric disease incidence, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have now successfully linked hundreds of specific genetic loci to psychiatric disorders [1-3]. Here, building upon results from well-powered GWAS of four phenotypes relevant to psychiatry, we motivate an exploratory workflow leading from GWAS screening, through causal testing in animal models using methods such as optogenetics, to new therapies in human beings. We focus on schizophrenia and the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2), hot flashes and the neurokinin B receptor (TACR3), cigarette smoking and receptors bound by nicotine (CHRNA5, CHRNA3, CHRNB4), and alcohol use and enzymes that help to break down alcohol (ADH1B, ADH1C, ADH7). A single genomic locus may not powerfully determine disease at the level of the population, but the same locus may nevertheless represent a potent treatment target suitable for population-wide therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laramie Duncan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering and Howard Hughes Medial Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Koysombat K, McGown P, Nyunt S, Abbara A, Dhillo WS. New advances in menopause symptom management. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 38:101774. [PMID: 37076317 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2023.101774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are characteristic of menopause experienced by over 75% of postmenopausal women with significant health and socioeconomic implications. Although the average duration of symptoms is seven years, 10% of women experience symptoms for more than a decade. Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) remains an efficacious and cost-effective treatment, its use may not be suitable in all women, such as those at an increased risk of breast cancer or gynaecological malignancy. The neurokinin B (NKB) signaling pathway, together with its intricate connection to the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO), has been postulated to provide integrated reproductive and thermoregulatory responses, with a central role in mediating postmenopausal VMS. This review describes the physiological hypothalamo-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and subsequently the neuroendocrine changes that occur with menopause using evidence derived from animal and human studies. Finally, data from the latest clinical trials using novel therapeutic agents that antagonise NKB signaling are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanyada Koysombat
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick McGown
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandhi Nyunt
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Sassarini J, Anderson RA. Elinzanetant: a phase III therapy for postmenopausal patients with vasomotor symptoms. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:19-26. [PMID: 38224099 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2305122] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are experienced by most women and are often debilitating and can last for years. While hormone replacement therapy is effective, it carries risks that have impacted its wider use, and it can be contraindicated. There is a large unmet need for a safe, effective non-hormonal therapy. AREAS COVERED The importance of the neurokinin (NK) system in the hypothalamic regulation of the vasomotor center has become clear. NK antagonists, previously developed for other indications, have therefore been investigated for the treatment of VMS. Elinzanetant is a potent antagonist at both NK1 (endogenous ligand Substance P) and NK3 (neurokinin B) receptors, whereas other related drugs in development are selective NK3 antagonists. Elinzanetant has been investigated in 2 Phase II trials for menopausal VMS, demonstrating rapid onset and dose-dependant efficacy for the relief of VMS and improvement in quality of life for up to 12 weeks. Phase III trials are underway in women both with physiological menopause and after treatment for breast cancer. EXPERT OPINION Elinzanetant is a very promising non-hormonal approach to a highly prevalent symptom constellation, with rapid onset and high efficacy. Wider indications are being explored in current Phase III trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenifer Sassarini
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Repair and Regeneration, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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12
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Georgescu T. The role of maternal hormones in regulating autonomic functions during pregnancy. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13348. [PMID: 37936545 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Offspring development relies on numerous physiological changes that occur in a mother's body, with hormones driving many of these adaptations. Amongst these, the physiological functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system are required for the mother to survive and are adjusted to meet the demands of the growing foetus and to ensure a successful birth. The hormones oestrogen, progesterone, and lactogenic hormones rise significantly during pregnancy, suggesting they may also play a role in regulating the maternal adaptations linked to autonomic nervous system functions, including respiratory, cardiovascular, and thermoregulatory functions. Indeed, expression of pregnancy hormone receptors spans multiple brain regions known to regulate these physiological functions. This review examines how respiratory, cardiovascular, and thermoregulatory functions are controlled by these pregnancy hormones by focusing on their action on central nervous system circuits. Inadequate adaptations in these systems during pregnancy can give rise to several pregnancy complications, highlighting the importance in understanding the mechanistic underpinnings of these changes and potentially identifying ways to treat pregnancy-associated afflictions using hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Georgescu
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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13
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Grant AD, Kriegsfeld LJ. Neural substrates underlying rhythmic coupling of female reproductive and thermoregulatory circuits. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254287. [PMID: 37753455 PMCID: PMC10518419 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Coordinated fluctuations in female reproductive physiology and thermoregulatory output have been reported for over a century. These changes occur rhythmically at the hourly (ultradian), daily (circadian), and multi-day (ovulatory) timescales, are critical for reproductive function, and have led to the use of temperature patterns as a proxy for female reproductive state. The mechanisms underlying coupling between reproductive and thermoregulatory systems are not fully established, hindering the expansion of inferences that body temperature can provide about female reproductive status. At present, numerous digital tools rely on temperature to infer the timing of ovulation and additional applications (e.g., monitoring ovulatory irregularities and progression of puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are developed based on the assumption that reproductive-thermoregulatory coupling occurs across timescales and life stages. However, without clear understanding of the mechanisms and degree of coupling among the neural substrates regulating temperature and the reproductive axis, whether such approaches will bear fruit in particular domains is uncertain. In this overview, we present evidence supporting broad coupling among the central circuits governing reproduction, thermoregulation, and broader systemic physiology, focusing on timing at ultradian frequencies. Future work characterizing the dynamics of reproductive-thermoregulatory coupling across the lifespan, and of conditions that may decouple these circuits (e.g., circadian disruption, metabolic disease) and compromise female reproductive health, will aid in the development of strategies for early detection of reproductive irregularities and monitoring the efficacy of fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lance J. Kriegsfeld
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Graduate Group in Endocrinology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
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14
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Sievert LL, Sharmeen T, Begum K, Muttukrishna S, Chowdhury O, Bentley GR. Frequency of Phytoestrogen Consumption and Symptoms at Midlife among Bangladeshis in Bangladesh and London. Nutrients 2023; 15:3676. [PMID: 37686708 PMCID: PMC10490262 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173676] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a longstanding interest in the relationship between diet and hot flash symptoms during midlife, especially in whether phytoestrogens ease menopausal symptoms. The purpose of this study was to examine hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness in relation to the intake of foods rich in phytoestrogens among Bangladeshi women aged 35 to 59 years who were living either in Sylhet, Bangladesh (n = 157) or as migrants in London (n = 174). Consumption ranges for phytoestrogens were constructed from food frequencies. We hypothesized that diets rich in isoflavones, lignans, and coumestrol would be associated with lower symptom frequencies. However, adjusted logistic regression results showed that with each incremental increase in general phytoestrogen consumption (scale of 0 to 10), the likelihood of hot flashes increased by 1.4%. Each incremental increase in lignan consumption raised the likelihood of hot flashes by 1.6%. In contrast, the odds of vaginal dryness decreased by 2%, with each incremental increase in phytoestrogen and lignan consumption, and by 4%, with each incremental increase in isoflavone consumption. Night sweats and trouble sleeping were not associated with phytoestrogen intake in logistic regressions. Our findings add to the conflicting data on relationships between phytoestrogens and symptoms associated with menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Taniya Sharmeen
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Khurshida Begum
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Shanthi Muttukrishna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, T12 E7WX Cork, Ireland
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15
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Yang WZ, Xie H, Du X, Zhou Q, Xiao Y, Zhao Z, Jia X, Xu J, Zhang W, Cai S, Li Z, Fu X, Hua R, Cai J, Chang S, Sun J, Sun H, Xu Q, Ni X, Tu H, Zheng R, Xu X, Wang H, Fu Y, Wang L, Li X, Yang H, Yao Q, Yu T, Shen Q, Shen WL. A parabrachial-hypothalamic parallel circuit governs cold defense in mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4924. [PMID: 37582782 PMCID: PMC10427655 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40504-6] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Thermal homeostasis is vital for mammals and is controlled by brain neurocircuits. Yet, the neural pathways responsible for cold defense regulation are still unclear. Here, we found that a pathway from the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB) to the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH), which runs parallel to the canonical LPB to preoptic area (POA) pathway, is also crucial for cold defense. Together, these pathways make an equivalent and cumulative contribution, forming a parallel circuit. Specifically, activation of the LPB → DMH pathway induced strong cold-defense responses, including increases in thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue (BAT), muscle shivering, heart rate, and locomotion. Further, we identified somatostatin neurons in the LPB that target DMH to promote BAT thermogenesis. Therefore, we reveal a parallel circuit governing cold defense in mice, which enables resilience to hypothermia and provides a scalable and robust network in heat production, reshaping our understanding of neural circuit regulation of homeostatic behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Z Yang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Hengchang Xie
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaosa Du
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Zhengdong Zhao
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xiaoning Jia
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jianhui Xu
- Thermoregulation and Inflammation Laboratory, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Shuang Cai
- Guizhou Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Organ Protection, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Zhangjie Li
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xin Fu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Rong Hua
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Junhao Cai
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Shuang Chang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Qingqing Xu
- Institute of life sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xinyan Ni
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Hongqing Tu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Ruimao Zheng
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xiaohong Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138667, Singapore
| | - Liming Wang
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xi Li
- Institute of life sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Haitao Yang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Qiyuan Yao
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Tian Yu
- Guizhou Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Organ Protection, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China.
| | - Qiwei Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Wei L Shen
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies & School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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Johnson KA, Martin N, Nappi RE, Neal-Perry G, Shapiro M, Stute P, Thurston RC, Wolfman W, English M, Franklin C, Lee M, Santoro N. Efficacy and Safety of Fezolinetant in Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms Associated With Menopause: A Phase 3 RCT. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:1981-1997. [PMID: 36734148 PMCID: PMC10348473 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are common, bothersome, and can persist for years before and after menopause. OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess efficacy/safety of fezolinetant for treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause. METHODS In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, 12-week phase 3 trial with a 40-week active treatment extension (NCT04003142; SKYLIGHT 2), women aged 40 to 65 years with minimum average 7 moderate to severe VMS/day were randomized to 12 weeks of once-daily placebo, fezolinetant 30 mg, or fezolinetant 45 mg. Completers were rerandomized to fezolinetant 30/45 mg for 40 additional weeks. Coprimary efficacy endpoints were mean daily change from baseline to week 4 (W4) and W12 in VMS frequency and severity. Safety was also assessed. RESULTS Both fezolinetant doses statistically significantly reduced VMS frequency/severity at W4 and W12 vs placebo. For VMS frequency, W4 least squares mean (SE) reduction vs placebo: fezolinetant 30 mg, -1.82 (0.46; P < .001); 45 mg, -2.55 (0.46; P < .001); W12: 30 mg, -1.86 (0.55; P < .001); 45 mg, -2.53 (0.55; P < .001). For VMS severity, W4: 30 mg, -0.15 (0.06; P < .05); 45 mg, -0.29 (0.06; P < .001); W12: 30 mg, -0.16 (0.08; P < .05); 45 mg, -0.29 (0.08; P < .001). Improvement in VMS frequency and severity was observed by W1 and maintained through W52. Serious treatment-emergent adverse events were infrequent, reported by 2%, 1%, and 0% of those receiving fezolinetant 30 mg, fezolinetant 45 mg, and placebo, respectively. CONCLUSION Daily fezolinetant 30 and 45 mg were efficacious and well tolerated for treating moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Martin
- Employee of Astellas Pharma Global Development at the Time of the Study, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, and Research Center for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology – Menopause Unit, Fondazione Policlinico IRCCS S. Matteo, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Genevieve Neal-Perry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Marla Shapiro
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Petra Stute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital, Bern CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca C Thurston
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Wendy Wolfman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Marci English
- Global Development, Astellas Pharma Global Development, Inc., Northbrook, IL 60062, USA
| | - Catherine Franklin
- Employee of Astellas Pharma Global Development at the Time of the Study, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Misun Lee
- Biostatistics, Astellas Pharma Global Development, Inc., Northbrook, IL 60062, USA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update the evidence-based Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. METHODS An advisory panel of clinicians and research experts in women's health were selected to review and evaluate the literature published since the Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. Topics were divided into five sections for ease of review: lifestyle; mind-body techniques; prescription therapies; dietary supplements; and acupuncture, other treatments, and technologies. The panel assessed the most current and available literature to determine whether to recommend or not recommend use based on these levels of evidence: Level I, good and consistent scientific evidence; Level II, limited or inconsistent scientific evidence, and Level III, consensus and expert opinion. RESULTS Evidence-based review of the literature resulted in several nonhormone options for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms. Recommended: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical hypnosis, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentin, fezolinetant (Level I); oxybutynin (Levels I-II); weight loss, stellate ganglion block (Levels II-III). Not recommended: Paced respiration (Level I); supplements/herbal remedies (Levels I-II); cooling techniques, avoiding triggers, exercise, yoga, mindfulness-based intervention, relaxation, suvorexant, soy foods and soy extracts, soy metabolite equol, cannabinoids, acupuncture, calibration of neural oscillations (Level II); chiropractic interventions, clonidine; (Levels I-III); dietary modification and pregabalin (Level III). CONCLUSION Hormone therapy remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and should be considered in menopausal women within 10 years of their final menstrual periods. For women who are not good candidates for hormone therapy because of contraindications (eg, estrogen-dependent cancers or cardiovascular disease) or personal preference, it is important for healthcare professionals to be well informed about nonhormone treatment options for reducing vasomotor symptoms that are supported by the evidence.
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18
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Takahashi TM, Sakurai T, Hirano A. Measuring body temperature of freely moving mice under an optogenetics-induced long-term hypothermic state. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102321. [PMID: 37267111 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a protocol for inducing a hibernation-like state in free-moving mice using optogenetics. We have recently developed an optogenetic technique utilizing modified Opsin4, which is activated by weak blue light, resulting in prolonged neuronal excitation. We describe a protocol that includes detailed instructions for virus injection, implantation of optic fibers and temperature transmitters, photostimulation, and real-time recording of body temperature in mice. This method is valuable for investigating the mechanisms underlying torpor and thermoregulation in mice. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Takahashi et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohru M Takahashi
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan; International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Sakurai
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan; International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Arisa Hirano
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan; International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan.
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Goto T, Hagihara M, Miyamichi K. Dynamics of pulsatile activities of arcuate kisspeptin neurons in aging female mice. eLife 2023; 12:82533. [PMID: 37223988 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive senescence is broadly observed across mammalian females, including humans, eventually leading to a loss of fertility. The pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is essential for gonad function, is primarily controlled by kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARCkiss), the pulse generator of GnRH. The pulsatility of GnRH release, as assessed by the amount of circulating gonadotropin, is markedly reduced in aged animals, suggesting that the malfunctions of ARCkiss may be responsible for reproductive aging and menopause-related disorders. However, the activity dynamics of ARCkiss during the natural transition to reproductive senescence remain unclear. Herein, we introduce chronic in vivo Ca2+ imaging of ARCkiss in female mice by fiber photometry to monitor the synchronous episodes of ARCkiss (SEskiss), a known hallmark of GnRH pulse generator activity, from the fully reproductive to acyclic phase over 1 year. During the reproductive phase, we find that not only the frequency, but also the intensities and waveforms of individual SEskiss, vary depending on the stage of the estrus cycle. During the transition to reproductive senescence, the integrity of SEskiss patterns, including the frequency and waveforms, remains mostly unchanged, whereas the intensities tend to decline. These data illuminate the temporal dynamics of ARCkiss activities in aging female mice. More generally, our findings demonstrate the utility of fiber-photometry-based chronic imaging of neuroendocrine regulators in the brain to characterize aging-associated malfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teppei Goto
- Laboratory for Comparative Connectomics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Mitsue Hagihara
- Laboratory for Comparative Connectomics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kazunari Miyamichi
- Laboratory for Comparative Connectomics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
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Velasco I, Franssen D, Daza-Dueñas S, Skrapits K, Takács S, Torres E, Rodríguez-Vazquez E, Ruiz-Cruz M, León S, Kukoricza K, Zhang FP, Ruohonen S, Luque-Cordoba D, Priego-Capote F, Gaytan F, Ruiz-Pino F, Hrabovszky E, Poutanen M, Vázquez MJ, Tena-Sempere M. Dissecting the KNDy hypothesis: KNDy neuron-derived kisspeptins are dispensable for puberty but essential for preserved female fertility and gonadotropin pulsatility. Metabolism 2023; 144:155556. [PMID: 37121307 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kiss1 neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate-nucleus (ARC) play key roles in the control of GnRH pulsatility and fertility. A fraction of ARC Kiss1 neurons, termed KNDy, co-express neurokinin B (NKB; encoded by Tac2). Yet, NKB- and Kiss1-only neurons are also found in the ARC, while a second major Kiss1-neuronal population is present in the rostral hypothalamus. The specific contribution of different Kiss1 neuron sub-sets and kisspeptins originating from them to the control of reproduction and eventually other bodily functions remains to be fully determined. METHODS To tease apart the physiological roles of KNDy-born kisspeptins, conditional ablation of Kiss1 in Tac2-expressing cells was implemented in vivo. To this end, mice with Tac2 cell-specific Kiss1 KO (TaKKO) were generated and subjected to extensive reproductive and metabolic characterization. RESULTS TaKKO mice displayed reduced ARC kisspeptin content and Kiss1 expression, with greater suppression in females, which was detectable at infantile-pubertal age. In contrast, Tac2/NKB levels were fully preserved. Despite the drop of ARC Kiss1/kisspeptin, pubertal timing was normal in TaKKO mice of both sexes. However, young-adult TaKKO females displayed disturbed LH pulsatility and sex steroid levels, with suppressed basal LH and pre-ovulatory LH surges, early-onset subfertility and premature ovarian insufficiency. Conversely, testicular histology and fertility were grossly conserved in TaKKO males. Ablation of Kiss1 in Tac2-cells led also to sex-dependent alterations in body composition, glucose homeostasis, especially in males, and locomotor activity, specifically in females. CONCLUSIONS Our data document that KNDy-born kisspeptins are dispensable/compensable for puberty in both sexes, but required for maintenance of female gonadotropin pulsatility and fertility, as well as for adult metabolic homeostasis. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) co-expressing kisspeptins and NKB, named KNDy, have been recently suggested to play a key role in pulsatile secretion of gonadotropins, and hence reproduction. However, the relative contribution of this Kiss1 neuronal-subset, vs. ARC Kiss1-only and NKB-only neurons, as well as other Kiss1 neuronal populations, has not been assessed in physiological settings. We report here findings in a novel mouse-model with elimination of KNDy-born kisspeptins, without altering other kisspeptin compartments. Our data highlights the heterogeneity of ARC Kiss1 populations and document that, while dispensable/compensable for puberty, KNDy-born kisspeptins are required for proper gonadotropin pulsatility and fertility, specifically in females, and adult metabolic homeostasis. Characterization of this functional diversity is especially relevant, considering the potential of kisspeptin-based therapies for management of human reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Velasco
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Delphine Franssen
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; GIGA-Neurosciences Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Silvia Daza-Dueñas
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Katalin Skrapits
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Takács
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Encarnación Torres
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Elvira Rodríguez-Vazquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Miguel Ruiz-Cruz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Silvia León
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Krisztina Kukoricza
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Fu-Ping Zhang
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Suvi Ruohonen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Diego Luque-Cordoba
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Feliciano Priego-Capote
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Francisco Gaytan
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Ruiz-Pino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland
| | - María J Vázquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain; Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain.
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21
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Meijsen JJ, Shen H, Vemuri M, Rasgon NL, Koenen KC, Duncan LE. Shared genetic influences on depression and menopause symptoms. Psychol Med 2023; 53:2241-2251. [PMID: 34865661 PMCID: PMC9167895 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721004037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women experience major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) approximately twice as often as men. Estrogen is thought to contribute to sex differences in these disorders, and reduced estrogen is also known to be a key driver of menopause symptoms such as hot flashes. Moreover, estrogen is used to treat menopause symptoms. In order to test for potential shared genetic influences between menopause symptoms and psychiatric disorders, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of estrogen medication use (as a proxy for menopause symptoms) in the UK Biobank. METHODS The analysis included 232 993 women aged 39-71 in the UK Biobank. The outcome variable for genetic analyses was estrogen medication use, excluding women using hormonal contraceptives. Trans-ancestry GWAS meta-analyses were conducted along with genetic correlation analyses on the European ancestry GWAS results. Hormone usage was also tested for association with depression and PTSD. RESULTS GWAS of estrogen medication use (compared to non-use) identified a locus in the TACR3 gene, which was previously linked to hot flashes in menopause [top rs77322567, odds ratio (OR) = 0.78, p = 7.7 × 10-15]. Genetic correlation analyses revealed shared genetic influences on menopause symptoms and depression (rg = 0.231, s.e.= 0.055, p = 2.8 × 10-5). Non-genetic analyses revealed higher psychiatric symptoms scores among women using estrogen medications. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that menopause symptoms have a complex genetic etiology which is partially shared with genetic influences on depression. Moreover, the TACR3 gene identified here has direct clinical relevance; antagonists for the neurokinin 3 receptor (coded for by TACR3) are effective treatments for hot flashes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joeri J Meijsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Center Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Boserupvej 2, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Hanyang Shen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Mytilee Vemuri
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Natalie L Rasgon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karestan C Koenen
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laramie E Duncan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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22
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Ivanova D, O'Byrne KT. Optogenetics studies of kisspeptin neurons. Peptides 2023; 162:170961. [PMID: 36731655 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170961] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Optical systems and genetic engineering technologies have made it possible to control neurons and unravel neuronal circuit behavior with high temporal and spatial resolution. The application of optogenetic strategies to understand the physiology of kisspeptin neuronal circuits has evolved in recent years among the neuroendocrine community. Kisspeptin neurons are fundamentally involved in controlling mammalian reproduction but also are implicated in numerous other physiological processes, including but not limited to feeding, energy expenditure, core body temperature and behavior. We conducted a review aiming to shed light on the novel findings obtained from in vitro and in vivo optogenetic studies interrogating kisspeptin neuronal circuits to date. Understanding the function of kisspeptin networks in the brain can greatly inform a wide range of clinical studies investigating infertility treatments, gender identity, metabolic disorders, hot flushes and psychosexual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyana Ivanova
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, King's College London, UK.
| | - Kevin T O'Byrne
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, King's College London, UK
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23
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Simon JA, Anderson RA, Ballantyne E, Bolognese J, Caetano C, Joffe H, Kerr M, Panay N, Seitz C, Seymore S, Trower M, Zuurman L, Pawsey S. Efficacy and safety of elinzanetant, a selective neurokinin-1,3 receptor antagonist for vasomotor symptoms: a dose-finding clinical trial (SWITCH-1). Menopause 2023; 30:239-246. [PMID: 36720081 PMCID: PMC9970022 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurokinin (NK)-3 and NK-1 receptors have been implicated in the etiology of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and sleep disturbances associated with menopause. This phase 2b, adaptive, dose-range finding study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of multiple doses of elinzanetant (NT-814), a selective NK-1,3 receptor antagonist, in women experiencing VMS associated with menopause, and investigate the impact of elinzanetant on sleep and quality of life. METHODS Postmenopausal women aged 40 to 65 years who experienced seven or more moderate-to-severe VMS per day were randomized to receive elinzanetant 40, 80, 120, or 160 mg or placebo once daily using an adaptive design algorithm. Coprimary endpoints were reduction in mean frequency and severity of moderate-to-severe VMS at weeks 4 and 12. Secondary endpoints included patient-reported assessments of sleep and quality of life. RESULTS Elinzanetant 120 mg and 160 mg achieved reductions in VMS frequency versus placebo from week 1 throughout 12 weeks of treatment. Least square mean reductions were statistically significant versus placebo at both primary endpoint time points for elinzanetant 120 mg (week 4: -3.93 [SE, 1.02], P < 0.001; week 12: -2.95 [1.15], P = 0.01) and at week 4 for elinzanetant 160 mg (-2.63 [1.03]; P = 0.01). Both doses also led to clinically meaningful improvements in measures of sleep and quality of life. All doses of elinzanetant were well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Elinzanetant is an effective and well-tolerated nonhormone treatment option for postmenopausal women with VMS and associated sleep disturbance. Elinzanetant also improves quality of life in women with VMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Simon
- From the George Washington University, IntimMedicine Specialists, Washington, DC
| | - Richard A. Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Hadine Joffe
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mary Kerr
- NeRRe Therapeutics, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Panay
- Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea and Westminster Hospitals, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Mike Trower
- NeRRe Therapeutics, Stevenage, United Kingdom
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24
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Witkowski S, Evard R, Rickson JJ, White Q, Sievert LL. Physical activity and exercise for hot flashes: trigger or treatment? Menopause 2023; 30:218-224. [PMID: 36696647 PMCID: PMC9886316 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE AND OBJECTIVE Hot flashes (HFs) are a prevalent feature of menopause. Hot flashes can be bothersome and affect quality of life. However, HFs have also been associated with the risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, providing current evidence on the effect of therapies to reduce HFs can help patients and providers with decision making. This review provides details on the scientific evidence to date related to the effect of physical activity (PA) and exercise to alter the HF experience in women. METHODS The PubMed database was searched between June 2020 and June 2022 for currently available evidence regarding the relation between PA and exercise and HFs. Our analysis included randomized control trials on exercise training, epidemiological studies, and studies evaluating acute exercise on the self-reported and objectively measured HF experience in addition to systematic reviews on the topic published as of June 2022. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The majority of evidence from randomized control trials indicates that aerobic and resistance exercise training lead to a decrease in subjectively experienced HFs. The limited available studies on acute exercise indicate that a bout of moderate-intensity exercise may decrease objectively measured and self-reported HFs but acute increases in PA intensity above accustomed levels may influence subjective HF experience. Some evidence suggests that for those with depression, habitual PA may be an effective way to reduce HF symptoms. Weighing the available evidence, for people who experience HFs, engaging in regular moderate-intensity PA, including aerobic and resistance exercise, may be an effective therapy to reduce HFs and women should be counseled on the benefits of regular, moderate exercise. However, significant gaps in knowledge remain about the optimal exercise prescription, effectiveness for a diverse population, meaning of differences between objective and subjective experience, and mechanisms that lead to changes in HFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Witkowski
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Rose Evard
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | | | - Quinn White
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
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25
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Gaitonde KD, Andrabi M, Burger CA, D'Souza SP, Vemaraju S, Koritala BSC, Smith DF, Lang RA. Diurnal regulation of metabolism by Gs-alpha in hypothalamic QPLOT neurons. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284824. [PMID: 37141220 PMCID: PMC10159165 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the hypothalamic preoptic area (POA) regulate multiple homeostatic processes, including thermoregulation and sleep, by sensing afferent input and modulating sympathetic nervous system output. The POA has an autonomous circadian clock and may also receive circadian signals indirectly from the suprachiasmatic nucleus. We have previously defined a subset of neurons in the POA termed QPLOT neurons that are identified by the expression of molecular markers (Qrfp, Ptger3, LepR, Opn5, Tacr3) that suggest receptivity to multiple stimuli. Because Ptger3, Opn5, and Tacr3 encode G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), we hypothesized that elucidating the G-protein signaling in these neurons is essential to understanding the interplay of inputs in the regulation of metabolism. Here, we describe how the stimulatory Gs-alpha subunit (Gnas) in QPLOT neurons regulates metabolism in mice. We analyzed Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice using indirect calorimetry at ambient temperatures of 22°C (a historical standard), 10°C (a cold challenge), and 28°C (thermoneutrality) to assess the ability of QPLOT neurons to regulate metabolism. We observed a marked decrease in nocturnal locomotion of Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice at both 28°C and 22°C, but no overall differences in energy expenditure, respiratory exchange, or food and water consumption. To analyze daily rhythmic patterns of metabolism, we assessed circadian parameters including amplitude, phase, and MESOR. Loss-of-function GNAS in QPLOT neurons resulted in several subtle rhythmic changes in multiple metabolic parameters. We observed that Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice show a higher rhythm-adjusted mean energy expenditure at 22°C and 10°C, and an exaggerated respiratory exchange shift with temperature. At 28°C, Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice have a significant delay in the phase of energy expenditure and respiratory exchange. Rhythmic analysis also showed limited increases in rhythm-adjusted means of food and water intake at 22°C and 28°C. Together, these data advance our understanding of Gαs-signaling in preoptic QPLOT neurons in regulating daily patterns of metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Gaitonde
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Molecular & Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Mutahar Andrabi
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Courtney A Burger
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Shane P D'Souza
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Molecular & Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Shruti Vemaraju
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Bala S C Koritala
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - David F Smith
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- The Center for Circadian Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Richard A Lang
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
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26
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McQuillan HJ, Clarkson J, Kauff A, Han SY, Yip SH, Cheong I, Porteous R, Heather AK, Herbison AE. Definition of the estrogen negative feedback pathway controlling the GnRH pulse generator in female mice. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7433. [PMID: 36460649 PMCID: PMC9718805 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35243-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the homeostatic estrogen negative feedback pathway central to mammalian fertility have remained unresolved. Direct measurement of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator activity in freely behaving mice with GCaMP photometry demonstrated striking estradiol-dependent plasticity in the frequency, duration, amplitude, and profile of pulse generator synchronization events. Mice with Cre-dependent deletion of ESR1 from all kisspeptin neurons exhibited pulse generator activity identical to that of ovariectomized wild-type mice. An in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 approach was used to knockdown ESR1 expression selectively in arcuate nucleus (ARN) kisspeptin neurons. Mice with >80% deletion of ESR1 in ARN kisspeptin neurons exhibited the ovariectomized pattern of GnRH pulse generator activity and high frequency LH pulses but with very low amplitude due to reduced responsiveness of the pituitary. Together, these studies demonstrate that estrogen utilizes ESR1 in ARN kisspeptin neurons to achieve estrogen negative feedback of the GnRH pulse generator in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- H James McQuillan
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Jenny Clarkson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Alexia Kauff
- Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Su Young Han
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Siew Hoong Yip
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Isaiah Cheong
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Robert Porteous
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Alison K Heather
- Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand. .,Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand. .,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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27
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Domingues TE, Diniz E Magalhães CO, Szawka RE, Reis AM, Henriques PC, da Costa Silva KS, Costa SP, Silva SB, Ferreira da Fonseca S, Rodrigues CM, Dias Peixoto MF, Coimbra CC, Mendonça VA, Scheidet PHF, Sampaio KH, Lacerda ACR. Prior aerobic physical training modulates neuropeptide expression and central thermoregulation after ovariectomy in the rat. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 558:111756. [PMID: 36084853 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111756] [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: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the effects of aerobic physical training and estradiol (E2) replacement on central pathways involved with thermoregulation in ovariectomized rats. Rats were assigned to untrained ovariectomized treated with placebo (UN-OVX), untrained ovariectomized treated with E2 (E2-OVX), and trained ovariectomized (TR-OVX) groups. Tail skin temperature (TST), internal temperature (Tint), and basal oxygen consumption (VO2) were recorded. Neuronal activity, brain expression of Kiss1, NKB and Prodyn, and central norepinephrine (NE) levels were measured. UN-OVX had the highest TST. Compared to UN-OVX rats, TR-OVX and E2-OVX had lower Fos expression in the paraventricular and arcuate (ARC) nuclei, and lower double labeling for Tyrosine Hydroxylase and Fos in the brainstem. Compared to UN-OVX, only TR-OVX group exhibited lower kisspeptin (Kiss1), neurokinin B (NKB), and prodynorphin expression in the ARC and higher central NE levels. Aerobic physical training before menopause may prevent the heat dissipation imbalance induced by reduction of E2, through central NE release, modulation of Kiss1, NKB and prodynorphin expression in neurons from ARC nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talita Emanuela Domingues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Caíque Olegário Diniz E Magalhães
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratório Experimental de Treinamento Físico - LETFis - Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Raphael Escorsim Szawka
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Adelina Martha Reis
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Costa Henriques
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kaoma Stephani da Costa Silva
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Paula Costa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Grduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sara Barros Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Grduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sueli Ferreira da Fonseca
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cíntia Maria Rodrigues
- Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Fabrício Dias Peixoto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cândido Celso Coimbra
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Amaral Mendonça
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Grduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique Figueiredo Scheidet
- Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Grduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kinulpe Honorato Sampaio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM), Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Sociedade Brasileira de Fisiologia, Diamantina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício - LAFIEX - CIPq Saúde. Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Grduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Constantin S. Targeting KNDy neurons to control GnRH pulses. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 67:102316. [PMID: 36347163 PMCID: PMC9772270 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the final output of the central nervous system that drives fertility. A characteristic of GnRH secretion is its pulsatility, which is driven by a pulse generator. Each GnRH pulse triggers a luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse. However, the puzzle has been to reconcile the synchronicity of GnRH neurons with the scattered hypothalamic distribution of their cell bodies. A leap toward understanding GnRH pulses was the discovery of kisspeptin neurons near the distal processes of GnRH neurons, which secrete kisspeptins, potent excitatory neuropeptides on GnRH neurons, and equipped with dual, but opposite, self-modulatory neuropeptides, neurokinin B and dynorphin. Over the last decade, this cell-to-cell communication has been dissected in animal models. Today the 50-year quest for the basic mechanism of GnRH pulse generation may be over, but questions about its physiological tuning remain. Here is an overview of recent basic research that frames translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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29
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Vrselja A, Latifi A, Baber RJ, Stuckey BGA, Walker MG, Stearns V, Hickey M, Davis SR. Q-122 as a novel, non-hormonal, oral treatment for vasomotor symptoms in women taking tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor after breast cancer: a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2022; 400:1704-1711. [PMID: 36366886 PMCID: PMC10084785 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01977-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes and night sweats) are experienced by more than two-thirds of women with breast cancer taking oral adjuvant endocrine therapy. Safe and effective treatments are lacking. Q-122 is a novel, non-hormonal compound that has shown promise for reducing vasomotor symptoms by modulation of oestrogen-responsive neurons in the hypothalamus. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Q-122 in women with breast cancer taking oral adjuvant endocrine therapy and experiencing vasomotor symptoms. METHODS We conducted a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept, phase 2 trial at 18 sites in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. Eligible participants were women, aged 18-70 years, taking a stable dose of tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor following breast cancer and experiencing at least 50 self-reported moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms per week. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) using an interactive web response system to oral Q-122 100 mg or identical placebo, twice daily for 28 days. Randomisation was stratified by BMI (≤30 kg/m2 or >30 kg/m2) and use of any of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, gabapentin, or pregabalin. Q-122 and placebo capsules were identical in appearance and containers identically labelled. During the double-blind treatment and analysis phases, the participants, investigators, clinical research organisation staff, and sponsor were masked to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was the difference in the mean percentage change from baseline in the Vasomotor Symptom Severity Score of moderate and severe hot flushes and night sweats (msVMS-SS) between Q-122 and placebo after 28 days of treatment. Primary analysis was by modified intention-to-treat and safety was assessed in all participants receiving at least one dose of study drug. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03518138. FINDINGS Between Oct 24, 2018, and Sept 9, 2020, 243 patients were screened, 131 of whom were randomly assigned and received treatment (Q-122 n=65 and placebo n=66). Q-122 resulted in a significantly greater mean percentage change in msVMS-SS from baseline over 28 days of treatment compared with placebo (least squares mean: Q-122 -39% [95% CI -46 to -31] vs placebo -26% [-33 to -18]; p=0·018). Treatment-emergent adverse events were generally mild to moderate and similar between the two groups (treatment-related treatment-emergent adverse events in 11 [17%] of 65 patients in the Q-122 group vs nine [14%] of 66 in the placebo group); zero patients in the Q-122 group and two (3%) patients in the placebo group had serious adverse events. INTERPRETATION Q-122 is an effective and well tolerated non-hormonal oral treatment for vasomotor symptoms in women taking oral adjuvant endocrine therapy after breast cancer. Our results support the conduct of larger and longer studies of Q-122, with potential use extending to postmenopausal women who require an alternative to menopausal hormone therapy. FUNDING QUE Oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rodney J Baber
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Bronwyn G A Stuckey
- Keogh Institute for Medical Research, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | | | - Vered Stearns
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Martha Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Mills EG, Dhillo WS. Invited review: Translating kisspeptin and neurokinin B biology into new therapies for reproductive health. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13201. [PMID: 36262016 PMCID: PMC9788075 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive neuropeptide kisspeptin has emerged as the master regulator of mammalian reproduction due to its key roles in the initiation of puberty and the control of fertility. Alongside the tachykinin neurokinin B and the endogenous opioid dynorphin, these peptides are central to the hormonal control of reproduction. Building on the expanding body of experimental animal models, interest has flourished with human studies revealing that kisspeptin administration stimulates physiological reproductive hormone secretion in both healthy men and women, as well as patients with common reproductive disorders. In addition, emerging therapeutic roles based on neurokinin B for the management of menopausal flushing, endometriosis and uterine fibroids are increasingly recognised. In this review, we focus on kisspeptin and neurokinin B and their potential application as novel clinical strategies for the management of reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard G. Mills
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Department of EndocrinologyImperial College Healthcare NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Waljit S. Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Department of EndocrinologyImperial College Healthcare NHS TrustLondonUK
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Lambrinoudaki I, Paschou SA, Armeni E, Goulis DG. The interplay between diabetes mellitus and menopause: clinical implications. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:608-622. [PMID: 35798847 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00708-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The menopausal transition is an impactful period in women's lives, when the risk of cardiovascular disease is accelerated. Similarly, diabetes mellitus profoundly impacts cardiovascular risk. However, the interplay between menopause and diabetes mellitus has not been adequately studied. The menopausal transition is accompanied by metabolic changes that predispose to diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as menopause results in increased risk of upper body adipose tissue accumulation and increased incidence of insulin resistance. Equally, diabetes mellitus can affect ovarian ageing, potentially causing women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and early-onset T2DM to experience menopause earlier than women without diabetes mellitus. Earlier age at menopause has been associated with a higher risk of T2DM later in life. Menopausal hormone therapy can reduce the risk of T2DM and improve glycaemic control in women with pre-existing diabetes mellitus; however, there is not enough evidence to support the administration of menopausal hormone therapy for diabetes mellitus prevention or control. This Review critically appraises studies published within the past few years on the interaction between diabetes mellitus and menopause and addresses all clinically relevant issues, such as the effect of menopause on the development of T2DM, and the management of both menopause and diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Menopause Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Stavroula A Paschou
- Menopause Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Armeni
- Menopause Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Fonseca CS, Aquino NSS, Goncalves GKN, Drummond LR, Hipolito LTM, Silva JF, Silva KSC, Henriques PC, Domingues TE, Lacerda ACR, Guatimosim S, Coimbra CC, Szawka RE, Reis AM. Norepinephrine modulation of heat dissipation in female rats lacking estrogen. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13188. [PMID: 36306200 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Postmenopausal hot flushes are caused by lack of estradiol (E2) but their neuroendocrine basis is still poorly understood. Here, we investigated the interrelationship between norepinephrine and hypothalamic neurons, with emphasis on kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARC), as a regulatory pathway in the vasomotor effects of E2. Ovariectomized (OVX) rats displayed increased tail skin temperature (TST), and this increase was prevented in OVX rats treated with E2 (OVX + E2). Expression of Fos in the hypothalamus and the number of ARC kisspeptin neurons coexpressing Fos were increased in OVX rats. Likewise, brainstem norepinephrine neurons of OVX rats displayed higher Fos immunoreactivity associated with the increase in TST. In the ARC, the density of dopamine-ß-hydroxylase (DBH)-immunoreactive (ir) fibers was not altered by E2 but, importantly, DBH-ir terminals were found in close apposition to kisspeptin cells, revealing norepinephrine inputs to ARC kisspeptin neurons. Intracerebroventricular injection of the α2-adrenergic agonist clonidine (CLO) was used to reduce central norepinephrine release, confirmed by the decreased 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol/norepinephrine ratio in the preoptic area and ARC. Accordingly, CLO treatment in OVX rats reduced ARC Kiss1 mRNA levels and TST to the values of OVX + E2 rats. Conversely, CLO stimulated Kiss1 expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and increased luteinizing hormone secretion. These findings provide evidence that augmented heat dissipation in OVX rats involves the increase in central norepinephrine that modulates hypothalamic areas related to thermoregulation, including ARC kisspeptin neurons. This neuronal network is suppressed by E2 and its imbalance may be implicated in the vasomotor symptoms of postmenopausal hot flushes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina S Fonseca
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nayara S S Aquino
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Gleisy K N Goncalves
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas R Drummond
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laisa T M Hipolito
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Juneo F Silva
- Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Kaoma S C Silva
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Patricia C Henriques
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Talita E Domingues
- Faculdade de Ciencias Biologicas e da Saude, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Brazil
| | - Ana C R Lacerda
- Faculdade de Ciencias Biologicas e da Saude, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Brazil
| | - Silvia Guatimosim
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Candido C Coimbra
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Raphael E Szawka
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Adelina M Reis
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Zeng W, Yang F, Shen WL, Zhan C, Zheng P, Hu J. Interactions between central nervous system and peripheral metabolic organs. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:1929-1958. [PMID: 35771484 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2103-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
According to Descartes, minds and bodies are distinct kinds of "substance", and they cannot have causal interactions. However, in neuroscience, the two-way interaction between the brain and peripheral organs is an emerging field of research. Several lines of evidence highlight the importance of such interactions. For example, the peripheral metabolic systems are overwhelmingly regulated by the mind (brain), and anxiety and depression greatly affect the functioning of these systems. Also, psychological stress can cause a variety of physical symptoms, such as bone loss. Moreover, the gut microbiota appears to play a key role in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Mechanistically, as the command center of the body, the brain can regulate our internal organs and glands through the autonomic nervous system and neuroendocrine system, although it is generally considered to be outside the realm of voluntary control. The autonomic nervous system itself can be further subdivided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic division functions a bit like the accelerator pedal on a car, and the parasympathetic division functions as the brake. The high center of the autonomic nervous system and the neuroendocrine system is the hypothalamus, which contains several subnuclei that control several basic physiological functions, such as the digestion of food and regulation of body temperature. Also, numerous peripheral signals contribute to the regulation of brain functions. Gastrointestinal (GI) hormones, insulin, and leptin are transported into the brain, where they regulate innate behaviors such as feeding, and they are also involved in emotional and cognitive functions. The brain can recognize peripheral inflammatory cytokines and induce a transient syndrome called sick behavior (SB), characterized by fatigue, reduced physical and social activity, and cognitive impairment. In summary, knowledge of the biological basis of the interactions between the central nervous system and peripheral organs will promote the full understanding of how our body works and the rational treatment of disorders. Thus, we summarize current development in our understanding of five types of central-peripheral interactions, including neural control of adipose tissues, energy expenditure, bone metabolism, feeding involving the brain-gut axis and gut microbiota. These interactions are essential for maintaining vital bodily functions, which result in homeostasis, i.e., a natural balance in the body's systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Zeng
- Institute for Immunology, and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China. .,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Fan Yang
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Wei L Shen
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Cheng Zhan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China. .,National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China. .,Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Peng Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China. .,Institute of Neuroscience and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China. .,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Ji Hu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
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Conde K, Kulyk D, Vanschaik A, Daisey S, Rojas C, Wiersielis K, Yasrebi A, Degroat TJ, Sun Y, Roepke TA. Deletion of Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor in Kisspeptin Neurons in Female Mice Blocks Diet-Induced Obesity. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1370. [PMID: 36291579 PMCID: PMC9599822 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut peptide, ghrelin, mediates energy homeostasis and reproduction by acting through its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), expressed in hypothalamic neurons in the arcuate (ARC). We have shown 17β-estradiol (E2) increases Ghsr expression in Kisspeptin/Neurokinin B/Dynorphin (KNDy) neurons, enhancing sensitivity to ghrelin. We hypothesized that E2-induced Ghsr expression augments KNDy sensitivity in a fasting state by elevating ghrelin to disrupt energy expenditure in females. We produced a Kiss1-GHSR knockout to determine the role of GHSR in ARC KNDy neurons. We found that changes in ARC gene expression with estradiol benzoate (EB) treatment were abrogated by the deletion of GHSR and ghrelin abolished these differences. We also observed changes in metabolism and fasting glucose levels. Additionally, knockouts were resistant to body weight gain on a high fat diet (HFD). Behaviorally, we found that knockouts on HFD exhibited reduced anxiety-like behavior. Furthermore, knockouts did not refeed to the same extent as controls after a 24 h fast. Finally, in response to cold stress, knockout females had elevated metabolic parameters compared to controls. These data indicate GHSR in Kiss1 neurons modulate ARC gene expression, metabolism, glucose homeostasis, behavior, and thermoregulation, illustrating a novel mechanism for E2 and ghrelin to control Kiss1 neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Conde
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Danielle Kulyk
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Allison Vanschaik
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Sierra Daisey
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Catherine Rojas
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Kimberly Wiersielis
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ali Yasrebi
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Thomas J. Degroat
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Yuxiang Sun
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Troy A. Roepke
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, the Center for Nutrition, Microbiome, and Health, and the New Jersey Institute of Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Jamieson BB, Piet R. Kisspeptin neuron electrophysiology: Intrinsic properties, hormonal modulation, and regulation of homeostatic circuits. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101006. [PMID: 35640722 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The obligatory role of kisspeptin (KISS1) and its receptor (KISS1R) in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, puberty and fertility was uncovered in 2003. In the few years that followed, an impressive body of work undertaken in many species established that neurons producing kisspeptin orchestrate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuron activity and subsequent GnRH and gonadotropin hormone secretory patterns, through kisspeptin-KISS1R signaling, and mediate many aspects of gonadal steroid hormone feedback regulation of GnRH neurons. Here, we review knowledge accrued over the past decade, mainly in genetically modified mouse models, of the electrophysiological properties of kisspeptin neurons and their regulation by hormonal feedback. We also discuss recent progress in our understanding of the role of these cells within neuronal circuits that control GnRH neuron activity and GnRH secretion, energy balance and, potentially, other homeostatic and reproductive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Piet
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
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Nilsson S, Henriksson M, Berin E, Engblom D, Holm ACS, Hammar M. Resistance training reduced luteinising hormone levels in postmenopausal women in a substudy of a randomised controlled clinical trial: A clue to how resistance training reduced vasomotor symptoms. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267613. [PMID: 35617333 PMCID: PMC9135255 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are common around menopause. Menopausal hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for VMS. Physical exercise has been proposed as an alternative treatment since physically active women have previously been found to experience fewer VMS than inactive women. In our randomised controlled trial on resistance training to treat VMS, sympoms were reduced by 50% in the intervention group compared with the control group. Objectives To propose a mechanism to explain how resistance training reduced VMS and to assess if luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were affected in accordance with the proposed mechanism. Trial design and methods A substudy of a randomized controlled trial on 65 postmenopausal women with VMS and low physical activity who were randomised to 15 weeks of resistance training three times per week (n = 33) or to a control group (n = 32). To be regarded compliant to the intervention we predecided a mean of two training sessions per week. The daily number of VMS were registered before and during the 15 weeks. Blood samples were drawn for analysis of LH and FSH at baseline and after 15 weeks. Results LH decreased significantly in the compliant intervention group compared with the control group (-4.0±10.6 versus 2.9±9.0, p = 0.028 with Mann-Whitney U test). FSH also decreased in the compliant intervention group compared with the control group, however not enough to reach statistical significance (-3.5±16.3 versus 3.2±18.2, p = 0.063 with Mann-Whitney U test). As previously published the number of hot flushes decreased significantly more in the intervention group than in the control group but there was no association between change in LH or FSH and in number of VMS. Conclusions We propose that endogenous opiods such as β-endorphin or dynorphin produced during resistance training decreased VMS by stimulating KNDγ-neurons to release neurokinin B to the hypothalamic thermoregulatory centre. Through effects on KNDγ-neurons, β-endorphin could also inhibit GnRH and thereby decrease the production of LH and FSH. The significanty decreased LH in the compliant intervention group compared with the control group was in accordance with the proposed mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid Nilsson
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Children’s and Women’s Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Moa Henriksson
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Children’s and Women’s Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emilia Berin
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Children’s and Women’s Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - David Engblom
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna-Clara Spetz Holm
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Children’s and Women’s Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mats Hammar
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Children’s and Women’s Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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Anderson RA, Millar RP. The roles of kisspeptin and neurokinin B in GnRH pulse generation in humans, and their potential clinical application. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13081. [PMID: 34962670 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The delivery of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in a pulsatile mode to the gonadotropes has long been known to be essential for normal reproductive function. There have been numerous studies aimed at dissecting out the mechanisms underlying GnRH pulse generation. The discovery of kisspeptin as an upstream regulator of GnRH attracted the possibility that pulsatile kisspeptin governed the pulsatile secretion of GnRH. Subsequent studies have shown the importance of the neurokinin B (NKB) system in modulating kisspeptin secretion and this GnRH. A number of studies in laboratory rodents have supported this notion. By contrast, we present data from clinical studies in men and women, in a range of contexts, showing that continuous infusion of kisspeptin 10 at receptor-saturating levels gives rise to an increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) (GnRH) pulse frequency. This has been demonstrated in normal healthy and hypogonadal men, in normal women during the mid-cycle LH surge, in men and women with mutations in the genes encoding NKB or its receptor, neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R), in women with polycystic ovary syndrome treated with NK3R antagonist, and in women treated with NK3R antagonist during the LH surge. These finds indicate that pulsatile secretion and action of kisspeptin on GnRH neurons is not required for the generation of LH (GnRH) pulses in humans. We also report that there is an absence of desensitization in humans exposed to continuous infusion of kisspeptin-10 at receptor-saturating concentrations over 22 h and briefly review GnRH, kisspeptin and NKB analogs and their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Robert P Millar
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Observatory, South Africa
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Estradiol and Estrogen-like Alternative Therapies in Use: The Importance of the Selective and Non-Classical Actions. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040861. [PMID: 35453610 PMCID: PMC9029610 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen is one of the most important female sex hormones, and is indispensable for reproduction. However, its role is much wider. Among others, due to its neuroprotective effects, estrogen protects the brain against dementia and complications of traumatic injury. Previously, it was used mainly as a therapeutic option for influencing the menstrual cycle and treating menopausal symptoms. Unfortunately, hormone replacement therapy might be associated with detrimental side effects, such as increased risk of stroke and breast cancer, raising concerns about its safety. Thus, tissue-selective and non-classical estrogen analogues have become the focus of interest. Here, we review the current knowledge about estrogen effects in a broader sense, and the possibility of using selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs), selective estrogen-receptor downregulators (SERDs), phytoestrogens, and activators of non-genomic estrogen-like signaling (ANGELS) molecules as treatment.
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Sobrino V, Avendaño MS, Perdices-López C, Jimenez-Puyer M, Tena-Sempere M. Kisspeptins and the neuroendocrine control of reproduction: Recent progress and new frontiers in kisspeptin research. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 65:100977. [PMID: 34999056 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In late 2003, a major breakthrough in our understanding of the mechanisms that govern reproduction occurred with the identification of the reproductive roles of kisspeptins, encoded by the Kiss1 gene, and their receptor, Gpr54 (aka, Kiss1R). The discovery of this unsuspected reproductive facet attracted an extraordinary interest and boosted an intense research activity, in human and model species, that, in a relatively short period, established a series of basic concepts on the physiological roles of kisspeptins. Such fundamental knowledge, gathered in these early years of kisspeptin research, set the scene for the more recent in-depth dissection of the intimacies of the neuronal networks involving Kiss1 neurons, their precise mechanisms of regulation and the molecular underpinnings of the function of kisspeptins as pivotal regulators of all key aspects of reproductive function, from puberty onset to pulsatile gonadotropin secretion and the metabolic control of fertility. While no clear temporal boundaries between these two periods can be defined, in this review we will summarize the most prominent advances in kisspeptin research occurred in the last ten years, as a means to provide an up-dated view of the state of the art and potential paths of future progress in this dynamic, and ever growing domain of Neuroendocrinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sobrino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Maria Soledad Avendaño
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Cecilia Perdices-López
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Jimenez-Puyer
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland.
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Hudson AD, Kauffman AS. Metabolic actions of kisspeptin signaling: Effects on body weight, energy expenditure, and feeding. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 231:107974. [PMID: 34530008 PMCID: PMC8884343 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptin (encoded by the Kiss1 gene) and its receptor, KISS1R (encoded by the Kiss1r gene), have well-established roles in stimulating reproduction via central actions on reproductive neural circuits, but recent evidence suggests that kisspeptin signaling also influences metabolism and energy balance. Indeed, both Kiss1 and Kiss1r are expressed in many metabolically-relevant peripheral tissues, including both white and brown adipose tissue, the liver, and the pancreas, suggesting possible actions on these tissues or involvement in their physiology. In addition, there may be central actions of kisspeptin signaling, or factors co-released from kisspeptin neurons, that modulate metabolic, feeding, or thermoregulatory processes. Accumulating data from animal models suggests that kisspeptin signaling regulates a wide variety of metabolic parameters, including body weight and energy expenditure, adiposity and adipose tissue function, food intake, glucose metabolism, respiratory rates, locomotor activity, and thermoregulation. Herein, the current evidence for the involvement of kisspeptin signaling in each of these physiological parameters is reviewed, gaps in knowledge identified, and future avenues of important research highlighted. Collectively, the discussed findings highlight emerging non-reproductive actions of kisspeptin signaling in metabolism and energy balance, in addition to previously documented roles in reproductive control, but also emphasize the need for more research to resolve current controversies and uncover underlying molecular and physiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra D Hudson
- Dept. of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Dept. of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America.
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Rønnekleiv OK, Qiu J, Kelly MJ. Hypothalamic Kisspeptin Neurons and the Control of Homeostasis. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqab253. [PMID: 34953135 PMCID: PMC8758343 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons provide indispensable excitatory transmission to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons for the coordinated release of gonadotropins, estrous cyclicity, and ovulation. But maintaining reproductive functions is metabolically demanding so there must be a coordination with multiple homeostatic functions, and it is apparent that Kiss1 neurons play that role. There are 2 distinct populations of hypothalamic Kiss1 neurons, namely arcuate nucleus (Kiss1ARH) neurons and anteroventral periventricular and periventricular nucleus (Kiss1AVPV/PeN) neurons in rodents, both of which excite GnRH neurons via kisspeptin release but are differentially regulated by ovarian steroids. Estradiol (E2) increases the expression of kisspeptin in Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons but decreases its expression in Kiss1ARH neurons. Also, Kiss1ARH neurons coexpress glutamate and Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons coexpress gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), both of which are upregulated by E2 in females. Also, Kiss1ARH neurons express critical metabolic hormone receptors, and these neurons are excited by insulin and leptin during the fed state. Moreover, Kiss1ARH neurons project to and excite the anorexigenic proopiomelanocortin neurons but inhibit the orexigenic neuropeptide Y/Agouti-related peptide neurons, highlighting their role in regulating feeding behavior. Kiss1ARH and Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons also project to the preautonomic paraventricular nucleus (satiety) neurons and the dorsomedial nucleus (energy expenditure) neurons to differentially regulate their function via glutamate and GABA release, respectively. Therefore, this review will address not only how Kiss1 neurons govern GnRH release, but how they control other homeostatic functions through their peptidergic, glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic connections, providing further evidence that Kiss1 neurons are the key neurons coordinating energy states with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oline K Rønnekleiv
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Jian Qiu
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Martin J Kelly
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
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Shen X, Liu Y, Li XF, Long H, Wang L, Lyu Q, Kuang Y, O’Byrne KT. Optogenetic stimulation of Kiss1 ARC terminals in the AVPV induces surge-like luteinizing hormone secretion via glutamate release in mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1036235. [PMID: 36425470 PMCID: PMC9678915 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1036235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin neurons are mainly located in the arcuate (Kiss1ARC, vis-à-vis the GnRH pulse generator) and anteroventral periventricular nucleus (Kiss1AVPV, vis-à-vis the GnRH surge generator). Kiss1ARC send fibre projections that connect with Kiss1AVPV somata. However, studies focused on the role of Kiss1ARC neurons in the LH surge are limited, and the role of Kiss1ARC projections to AVPV (Kiss1ARC→AVPV) in the preovulatory LH surge is still unknown. To investigate its function, this study used optogenetics to selectively stimulate Kiss1ARC→AVPV and measured changes in circulating LH levels. Kiss1ARC in Kiss-Cre-tdTomato mice were virally infected to express channelrhodopsin-2 proteins, and optical stimulation was applied selectively via a fibre optic cannula in the AVPV. Sustained 20 Hz optical stimulation of Kiss1ARC→AVPV from 15:30 to 16:30 h on proestrus effectively induced an immediate increase in LH reaching peak surge-like levels of around 8 ng/ml within 10 min, followed by a gradual decline to baseline over about 40 min. Stimulation at 10 Hz resulted in a non-significant increase in LH levels and 5 Hz stimulation had no effect in proestrous animals. The 20 Hz stimulation induced significantly higher circulating LH levels on proestrus compared with diestrus or estrus, which suggested that the effect of terminal stimulation is modulated by the sex steroid milieu. Additionally, intra-AVPV infusion of glutamate antagonists, AP5+CNQX, completely blocked the increase on LH levels induced by Kiss1ARC→AVPV terminal photostimulation in proestrous animals. These results demonstrate for the first time that optical stimulation of Kiss1ARC→AVPV induces an LH surge-like secretion via glutamatergic mechanisms. In conclusion, Kiss1ARC may participate in LH surge generation by glutamate release from terminal projections in the AVPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Shen
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yali Liu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Feng Li
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hui Long
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Kevin T. O’Byrne, ; Yanping Kuang,
| | - Kevin T. O’Byrne
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Kevin T. O’Byrne, ; Yanping Kuang,
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Yang Q, Sun Y, Wang W, Jia J, Bai W, Wang K, Wang Z, Luo X, Wang H, Qin L. Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 2 Thermosensitive Neurons in the Preoptic Area Involved in Menopausal Hot Flashes in Ovariectomized Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:649-665. [PMID: 34592740 DOI: 10.1159/000519949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menopausal hot flashes are related to hypothalamic preoptic area (POA) dysfunction. Thermosensitive transient receptor potential channels (ThermoTRPs) are involved in temperature sensing and regulation of thermosensitive neurons (TSNs) in the POA. Whether ThermoTRP-TSNs in the POA, particularly the non-noxious thermoreceptor, transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2), are involved in the occurrence of hot flashes is still unclear. METHODS Twenty wild-type and 50 Trpm2-Cre adult female mice were randomly divided into sham (SHAM) and ovariectomy (OVX) groups. In the POA, ERα, ERβ, GPR30, TRPA1, TRPM8, TRPM2, and TRPV1 expression was detected by Western blot or/and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and the number of TSNs expressing TRPM2 (TRPM2-TSNs) by immunofluorescence. Before and after TRPM2-TSN activation/inhibition, back (BST) and tail skin temperature (TST) and the proportion of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons among TRPM2-TSNs were recorded. RESULTS Compared with SHAM, the expression of ERα, ERβ, TRPM2, and TRPM8 in the POA of the OVX group decreased, with a significantly larger change range for TRPM2 than TRPM8. In addition, the number of TRPM2-TSNs showing TRPA1, TRPM8, and TRPV1 expression in the OVX group decreased, and the proportion of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in TRPM2-TSNs decreased and increased, respectively. Meanwhile, BST and TST increased. After activating or inhibiting TRPM2-TSNs, the proportions of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in TRPM2-TSNs changed, along with the BST and TST. CONCLUSION In menopause, the abnormal quantity and function of TRPM2-TSNs in the POA is key for the development of hot flashes, characterized by an imbalance in heat dissipation and production due to the corresponding imbalance in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- Faculty of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Key Laboratory of Digital Hepetobiliary Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanrong Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Jia
- Department of Stomatology, The Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenpei Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ziyue Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Luo
- Department of Stomatology, The Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Institute of Brain Cognition and Brain Disease, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lihua Qin
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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McCarthy EA, Dischino D, Maguire C, Leon S, Talbi R, Cheung E, Schteingart CD, Rivière PJM, Reed SD, Steiner RA, Navarro VM. Inhibiting Kiss1 Neurons With Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonists to Treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Vasomotor Symptoms. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e328-e347. [PMID: 34387319 PMCID: PMC8684497 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Recent evidence suggests that vasomotor symptoms (VMS) or hot flashes in the postmenopausal reproductive state and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in the premenopausal reproductive state emanate from the hyperactivity of Kiss1 neurons in the hypothalamic infundibular/arcuate nucleus (KNDy neurons). OBJECTIVE We demonstrate in 2 murine models simulating menopause and PCOS that a peripherally restricted kappa receptor agonist (PRKA) inhibits hyperactive KNDy neurons (accessible from outside the blood-brain barrier) and impedes their downstream effects. DESIGN Case/control. SETTING Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Mice. INTERVENTIONS Administration of peripherally restricted kappa receptor agonists and frequent blood sampling to determine hormone release and body temperature. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES LH pulse parameters and body temperature. RESULTS First, chronic administration of a PRKA to bilaterally ovariectomized mice with experimentally induced hyperactivity of KNDy neurons reduces the animals' elevated body temperature, mean plasma LH level, and mean peak LH per pulse. Second, chronic administration of a PRKA to a murine model of PCOS, having elevated plasma testosterone levels and irregular ovarian cycles, suppresses circulating levels of LH and testosterone and restores normal ovarian cyclicity. CONCLUSION The inhibition of kisspeptin neuronal activity by activation of kappa receptors shows promise as a novel therapeutic approach to treat both VMS and PCOS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Daniel Dischino
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Caroline Maguire
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Silvia Leon
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rajae Talbi
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Eugene Cheung
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | | | - Susan D Reed
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Robert A Steiner
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Victor M Navarro
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Program in Neuroscience, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Correspondence: Victor M. Navarro PhD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Deletion of Stim1 in Hypothalamic Arcuate Nucleus Kiss1 Neurons Potentiates Synchronous GCaMP Activity and Protects against Diet-Induced Obesity. J Neurosci 2021; 41:9688-9701. [PMID: 34654752 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0622-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons are essential for reproduction, but their role in the control of energy balance and other homeostatic functions remains unclear. High-frequency firing of hypothalamic arcuate Kiss1 (Kiss1ARH) neurons releases kisspeptin into the median eminence, and neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin onto neighboring Kiss1ARH neurons to generate a slow EPSP mediated by TRPC5 channels that entrains intermittent, synchronous firing of Kiss1ARH neurons. High-frequency optogenetic stimulation of Kiss1ARH neurons also releases glutamate to excite the anorexigenic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons and inhibit the orexigenic neuropeptide Y/agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons via metabotropic glutamate receptors. At the molecular level, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium-sensing protein stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) is critically involved in the regulation of neuronal Ca2+ signaling and neuronal excitability through its interaction with plasma membrane (PM) calcium (e.g., TRPC) channels. Therefore, we hypothesized that deletion of Stim1 in Kiss1ARH neurons would increase neuronal excitability and their synchronous firing, which ultimately would affect energy homeostasis. Using optogenetics in combination with whole-cell recording and GCaMP6 imaging in slices, we discovered that deletion of Stim1 in Kiss1 neurons significantly increased the amplitude and duration of the slow EPSP and augmented synchronous [Ca2+]i oscillations in Kiss1ARH neurons. Deletion of Stim1 in Kiss1ARH neurons amplified the actions of NKB and protected ovariectomized female mice from developing obesity and glucose intolerance with high-fat dieting (HFD). Therefore, STIM1 appears to play a critical role in regulating synchronous firing of Kiss1ARH neurons, which ultimately affects the coordination between energy homeostasis and reproduction.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Hypothalamic arcuate kisspeptin (Kiss1ARH) neurons are essential for stimulating the pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and maintaining fertility. However, Kiss1ARH neurons appear to be a key player in coordinating energy balance with reproduction. The regulation of calcium channels and hence calcium signaling is critically dependent on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium-sensing protein stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), which interacts with the plasma membrane (PM) calcium channels. We have conditionally deleted Stim1 in Kiss1ARH neurons and found that it significantly increased the excitability of Kiss1ARH neurons and protected ovariectomized female mice from developing obesity and glucose intolerance with high-fat dieting (HFD).
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Patel B, S Dhillo W. Menopause review: Emerging treatments for menopausal symptoms. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2021; 81:134-144. [PMID: 34965909 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2021.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) affect 2 out of 3 women during menopause and are highly disruptive and intolerable. They exert a negative impact on a woman's physical and mental well-being and are considered a high clinical priority requiring effective treatment. Although hormone therapy remains the gold-standard treatment for hot flushes, it is associated with several side effects and contraindications. Furthermore, alternative treatments for VMS are currently less efficacious and have limited availability; therefore, a new medication to treat VMS would benefit millions of women worldwide. Neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) antagonists have recently been developed as novel therapeutic agents for the amelioration of VMS through their action on NK3 receptors within the hypothalamus and consequent regulation of the thermoregulatory centre. So far, three NK3R antagonists have been studied in menopausal women, which have demonstrated significant reductions in VMS frequency and severity and have shown their ability to transform patients' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijal Patel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, 6th Floor Commonwealth Building, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, 150 Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK.
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, 6th Floor Commonwealth Building, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, 150 Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK.
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Bayanjargal O, Namsrai Z, Sievert LL. The menopausal transition in Mongolia. Menopause 2021; 29:96-100. [PMID: 34668884 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this cross-sectional pilot study was to develop a preliminary understanding of how menopause is experienced by Mongolian women. Our goals were to collect symptoms associated with the end of menstruation and to understand the language used and meaning of menopause in everyday life. METHODS We carried out interviews using a semistructured questionnaire with open-ended questions (n = 17). In the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, we carried out two focus groups of five women each in a community center and an artisan factory, along with five separate interviews in a second community center and a coffee shop. We also administered the questionnaire by phone to two women residing in rural villages. RESULTS The most common symptoms associated with the end of menstruation were hot flashes (71%), anger (47%), and stress (29%). Other symptoms included shortness of breath, fatigue, crying, and badairakh (tingling) on the face. Women used the words tsevershilt and tsevershikh to describe cleansing. Menstruation was thought to rid the body of "bad" blood, so with menopause the body has been "cleaned." Conversely, some women attributed a decline in health, including varicose veins, diabetes, and negative psychological changes, to the retention of "bad" blood after menopause. CONCLUSIONS The topic of menopause is not taboo, and the prevalence and experience of hot flashes is similar to experiences described across the world. However, there are specific words and concepts, such as tsevershikh and tsevershilt, that are uniquely applied to the menopausal transition in Mongolia.
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Leon S, Talbi R, McCarthy EA, Ferrari K, Fergani C, Naule L, Choi JH, Carroll RS, Kaiser UB, Aylwin CF, Lomniczi A, Navarro VM. Sex-specific pubertal and metabolic regulation of Kiss1 neurons via Nhlh2. eLife 2021; 10:e69765. [PMID: 34494548 PMCID: PMC8439651 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic Kiss1 neurons control gonadotropin-releasing hormone release through the secretion of kisspeptin. Kiss1 neurons serve as a nodal center that conveys essential regulatory cues for the attainment and maintenance of reproductive function. Despite this critical role, the mechanisms that control kisspeptin synthesis and release remain largely unknown. Using Drop-Seq data from the arcuate nucleus of adult mice and in situ hybridization, we identified Nescient Helix-Loop-Helix 2 (Nhlh2), a transcription factor of the basic helix-loop-helix family, to be enriched in Kiss1 neurons. JASPAR analysis revealed several binding sites for NHLH2 in the Kiss1 and Tac2 (neurokinin B) 5' regulatory regions. In vitro luciferase assays evidenced a robust stimulatory action of NHLH2 on human KISS1 and TAC3 promoters. The recruitment of NHLH2 to the KISS1 and TAC3 promoters was further confirmed through chromatin immunoprecipitation. In vivo conditional ablation of Nhlh2 from Kiss1 neurons using Kiss1Cre:Nhlh2fl/fl mice induced a male-specific delay in puberty onset, in line with a decrease in arcuate Kiss1 expression. Females retained normal reproductive function albeit with irregular estrous cycles. Further analysis of male Kiss1Cre:Nhlh2fl/fl mice revealed higher susceptibility to metabolic challenges in the release of luteinizing hormone and impaired response to leptin. Overall, in Kiss1 neurons, Nhlh2 contributes to the metabolic regulation of kisspeptin and NKB synthesis and release, with implications for the timing of puberty onset and regulation of fertility in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Leon
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Rajae Talbi
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Elizabeth A McCarthy
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Kaitlin Ferrari
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Chrysanthi Fergani
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Lydie Naule
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Ji Hae Choi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Rona S Carroll
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
| | - Carlos F Aylwin
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Víctor M Navarro
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUnited States
- Harvard Program in NeuroscienceBostonUnited States
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Tahara A, Takamatsu H, Ohtake A, Tanaka-Amino K, Kaku S. Effects of neurokinin 3 receptor antagonist fezolinetant on hot flash-like symptoms in ovariectomized rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 905:174207. [PMID: 34048742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174207] [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: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The majority of women experience vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, during the menopausal transition. Recent evidence strongly suggests a connection between neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor signaling and VMS associated with menopause. The NK3 receptor antagonist fezolinetant is currently in phase 3 development for treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause. We investigated the pharmacological effects of repeated administration of fezolinetant on levels of sex hormones and gonadotropins, neuronal activity in the hypothalamus, and skin temperature as an index of hot flash-like symptoms in ovariectomized rats as a model of menopause. Ovariectomized rats exhibited several typical menopausal symptoms: hyperphagia, increased body weight, significantly decreased plasma estradiol levels, increased luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, and significantly increased skin temperature. Increased c-Fos expression (an indirect marker of neuronal activity) in median preoptic nucleus (MnPO) hypothalamic neurons was also observed in ovariectomized rats. Repeated oral administration of fezolinetant (1-10 mg/kg, twice daily) for 1 week dose-dependently reduced plasma LH levels without affecting estradiol or FSH levels, inhibited the activation of MnPO neurons, and attenuated hot flash-like symptoms. In addition, fezolinetant dose-dependently reduced hyperphagia and weight gain in ovariectomized rats. These preclinical findings suggest that fezolinetant attenuates hot flash-like symptoms via inhibition of neuronal activity in the MnPO of ovariectomized rats and provides further support for the ongoing clinical development of fezolinetant for the treatment of VMS associated with menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuo Tahara
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Ibaraki, Japan.
| | | | - Akiyoshi Ohtake
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Seiji Kaku
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Ibaraki, Japan
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Arcuate and Preoptic Kisspeptin Neurons Exhibit Differential Projections to Hypothalamic Nuclei and Exert Opposite Postsynaptic Effects on Hypothalamic Paraventricular and Dorsomedial Nuclei in the Female Mouse. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0093-21.2021. [PMID: 34281980 PMCID: PMC8354717 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0093-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons provide indispensable excitatory input to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which is important for the coordinated release of gonadotropins, estrous cyclicity and ovulation. However, Kiss1 neurons also send projections to many other brain regions within and outside the hypothalamus. Two different populations of Kiss1 neurons, one in the arcuate nucleus (Kiss1ARH) and another in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and periventricular nucleus (PeN; Kiss1AVPV/PeN) of the hypothalamus are differentially regulated by ovarian steroids, and are believed to form direct contacts with GnRH neurons as well as other neurons. To investigate the projection fields from Kiss1AVPV/PeN and Kiss1ARH neurons in female mice, we used anterograde projection analysis, and channelrhodopsin-assisted circuit mapping (CRACM) to explore their functional input to select target neurons within the paraventricular (PVH) and dorsomedial (DMH) hypothalamus, key preautonomic nuclei. Cre-dependent viral (AAV1-DIO-ChR2 mCherry) vectors were injected into the brain to label the two Kiss1 neuronal populations. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) for mCherry and neuropeptides combined with confocal microscopy was used to determine the projection-fields of both Kiss1 neuronal groups. Whole-cell electrophysiology and optogenetics were used to elucidate the functional input to the PVH and DMH. Our analysis revealed many common but also several clearly separate projection fields between the two different populations of Kiss1 neurons. In addition, optogenetic stimulation of Kiss1 projections to PVH prodynorphin, Vglut2 and DMH CART-expressing neurons, revealed excitatory glutamatergic input from Kiss1ARH neurons and inhibitory GABAergic input from Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons. Therefore, these steroid-sensitive Kiss1 neuronal groups can differentially control the excitability of target neurons to coordinate autonomic functions with reproduction.
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