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Kalakh S, Mouihate A. The Effects of Neuroactive Steroids on Myelin in Health and Disease. Med Princ Pract 2024; 33:198-214. [PMID: 38350432 PMCID: PMC11175611 DOI: 10.1159/000537794] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Myelin plays a pivotal role in the efficient transmission of nerve impulses. Disruptions in myelin integrity are associated with numerous neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis. In the central nervous system (CNS), myelin is formed by oligodendrocytes. Remyelination refers to the re-formation of the damaged myelin sheath by newly formed oligodendrocytes. Steroids have gained attention for their potential modulatory effects on myelin in both health and disease. Steroids are traditionally associated with endocrine functions, but their local synthesis within the nervous system has generated significant interest. The term "neuroactive steroids" refers to steroids that can act on cells of the nervous system. In the healthy state, neuroactive steroids promote myelin formation, maintenance, and repair by enhancing oligodendrocyte differentiation and maturation. In pathological conditions, such as demyelination injury, multiple neuroactive steroids have shown promise in promoting remyelination. Understanding the effects of neuroactive steroids on myelin could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for demyelinating diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. This review highlights the potential therapeutic significance of neuroactive steroids in myelin-related health and diseases. We review the synthesis of steroids by neurons and glial cells and discuss the roles of neuroactive steroids on myelin structure and function in health and disease. We emphasize the potential promyelinating effects of the varying levels of neuroactive steroids during different female physiological states such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, lactation, and postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah Kalakh
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- School of Engineering and Computing, American International University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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2
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Neuroactive steroids and Parkinson's disease: Review of human and animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 156:105479. [PMID: 38007170 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The greater prevalence and incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD) in men suggest a beneficial effect of sex hormones. Neuroactive steroids have neuroprotective activities thus offering interesting option for disease-modifying therapy for PD. Neuroactive steroids are also neuromodulators of neurotransmitter systems and may thus help to control PD symptoms and side effect of dopamine medication. Here, we review the effect on sex hormones (estrogen, androgen, progesterone and its metabolites) as well as androstenediol, pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone) in human studies and in animal models of PD. The effect of neuroactive steroids is reviewed by considering sex and hormonal status to help identify specifically for women and men with PD what might be a preventive approach or a symptomatic treatment. PD is a complex disease and the pathogenesis likely involves multiple cellular processes. Thus it might be useful to target different cellular mechanisms that contribute to neuronal loss and neuroactive steroids provide therapeutics options as they have multiple mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
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3
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Amerio A, Magnani L, Arduino G, Fesce F, de Filippis R, Parise A, Costanza A, Nguyen KD, Saverino D, De Berardis D, Aguglia A, Escelsior A, Serafini G, De Fazio P, Amore M. Immunomodulatory Effects of Clozapine: More Than Just a Side Effect in Schizophrenia. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1233-1247. [PMID: 38031778 PMCID: PMC10964093 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231128101725] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests a possible relationship between the immune system and schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs), as neuroinflammation appears to play a role in major psychiatric conditions. Neuroinflammation is as a broad concept representing a physiological protective response to infection or injury, but in some cases, especially if chronic, it may represent an expression of maladaptive processes, potentially driving to clinical dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Several studies are concurrently highlighting the importance of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, in a huge number of neurodegenerative diseases, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as SSDs. A more fundamental phenomenon of maladaptive coupling of microglia may contribute to the genesis of dysfunctional brain inflammation involved in SSDs, from the onset of their neurophenomenological evolution. Clozapine and other antipsychotic drugs seem to express a provable immunomodulant effect and a more specific action on microglia, while neuroactive steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce some SSDs symptoms in add-on therapy. Given these theoretical premises, this article aims to summarize and interpret the available scientific evidence about psychotropic and anti-inflammatory drugs that could express an immunomodulant activity on microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Amerio
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Magnani
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Arduino
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabio Fesce
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Renato de Filippis
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alberto Parise
- Department of Geriatric-Rehabilitation,, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandra Costanza
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva (UNIGE), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, University of Italian Switzerland (USI) Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Khoa D. Nguyen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Tranquis Therapeutics, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Daniele Saverino
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMeS), Section of Human Anatomy, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Domenico De Berardis
- NHS, Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service for Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Andrea Aguglia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Escelsior
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Serafini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Pasquale De Fazio
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Mario Amore
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI),
Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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4
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Sudwarts A, Thinakaran G. Alzheimer's genes in microglia: a risk worth investigating. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:90. [PMID: 37986179 PMCID: PMC10662636 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite expressing many key risk genes, the role of microglia in late-onset Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology is somewhat ambiguous, with various phenotypes reported to be either harmful or protective. Herein, we review some key findings from clinical and animal model investigations, discussing the role of microglial genetics in mediating perturbations from homeostasis. We note that impairment to protective phenotypes may include prolonged or insufficient microglial activation, resulting in dysregulated metabolomic (notably lipid-related) processes, compounded by age-related inflexibility in dynamic responses. Insufficiencies of mouse genetics and aggressive transgenic modelling imply severe limitations in applying current methodologies for aetiological investigations. Despite the shortcomings, widely used amyloidosis and tauopathy models of the disease have proven invaluable in dissecting microglial functional responses to AD pathophysiology. Some recent advances have brought modelling tools closer to human genetics, increasing the validity of both aetiological and translational endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Sudwarts
- Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Gopal Thinakaran
- Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
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5
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Nutma E, Fancy N, Weinert M, Tsartsalis S, Marzin MC, Muirhead RCJ, Falk I, Breur M, de Bruin J, Hollaus D, Pieterman R, Anink J, Story D, Chandran S, Tang J, Trolese MC, Saito T, Saido TC, Wiltshire KH, Beltran-Lobo P, Phillips A, Antel J, Healy L, Dorion MF, Galloway DA, Benoit RY, Amossé Q, Ceyzériat K, Badina AM, Kövari E, Bendotti C, Aronica E, Radulescu CI, Wong JH, Barron AM, Smith AM, Barnes SJ, Hampton DW, van der Valk P, Jacobson S, Howell OW, Baker D, Kipp M, Kaddatz H, Tournier BB, Millet P, Matthews PM, Moore CS, Amor S, Owen DR. Translocator protein is a marker of activated microglia in rodent models but not human neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5247. [PMID: 37640701 PMCID: PMC10462763 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40937-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglial activation plays central roles in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Positron emission tomography (PET) targeting 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO) is widely used for localising inflammation in vivo, but its quantitative interpretation remains uncertain. We show that TSPO expression increases in activated microglia in mouse brain disease models but does not change in a non-human primate disease model or in common neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory human diseases. We describe genetic divergence in the TSPO gene promoter, consistent with the hypothesis that the increase in TSPO expression in activated myeloid cells depends on the transcription factor AP1 and is unique to a subset of rodent species within the Muroidea superfamily. Finally, we identify LCP2 and TFEC as potential markers of microglial activation in humans. These data emphasise that TSPO expression in human myeloid cells is related to different phenomena than in mice, and that TSPO-PET signals in humans reflect the density of inflammatory cells rather than activation state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Nutma
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurobiology and Aging, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Nurun Fancy
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Weinert
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stergios Tsartsalis
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Manuel C Marzin
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert C J Muirhead
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Irene Falk
- Viral Immunology Section, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Flow and Imaging Cytometry Core Facility, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marjolein Breur
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joy de Bruin
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David Hollaus
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robin Pieterman
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper Anink
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David Story
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Jiabin Tang
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maria C Trolese
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Takashi Saito
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takaomi C Saido
- Department of Neurocognitive Science, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Paula Beltran-Lobo
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Phillips
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jack Antel
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Luke Healy
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marie-France Dorion
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Dylan A Galloway
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Rochelle Y Benoit
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Quentin Amossé
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kelly Ceyzériat
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Enikö Kövari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carola I Radulescu
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jia Hui Wong
- Neurobiology of Aging and Disease Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anna M Barron
- Neurobiology of Aging and Disease Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Amy M Smith
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Centre for Brain Research and Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Samuel J Barnes
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Paul van der Valk
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Owain W Howell
- Institute of Life Science (ILS), Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | - David Baker
- Department of Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Markus Kipp
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Hannes Kaddatz
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Philippe Millet
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of Adult Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul M Matthews
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Craig S Moore
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Sandra Amor
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
| | - David R Owen
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK.
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6
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Lucchi C, Codeluppi A, Filaferro M, Vitale G, Rustichelli C, Avallone R, Mandrioli J, Biagini G. Human Microglia Synthesize Neurosteroids to Cope with Rotenone-Induced Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040963. [PMID: 37107338 PMCID: PMC10135967 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We obtained evidence that mouse BV2 microglia synthesize neurosteroids dynamically to modify neurosteroid levels in response to oxidative damage caused by rotenone. Here, we evaluated whether neurosteroids could be produced and altered in response to rotenone by the human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) cell line. To this aim, HMC3 cultures were exposed to rotenone (100 nM) and neurosteroids were measured in the culture medium by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Microglia reactivity was evaluated by measuring interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, whereas cell viability was monitored by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. After 24 h (h), rotenone increased IL-6 and reactive oxygen species levels by approximately +37% over the baseline, without affecting cell viability; however, microglia viability was significantly reduced at 48 h (p < 0.01). These changes were accompanied by the downregulation of several neurosteroids, including pregnenolone, pregnenolone sulfate, 5α-dihydroprogesterone, and pregnanolone, except for allopregnanolone, which instead was remarkably increased (p < 0.05). Interestingly, treatment with exogenous allopregnanolone (1 nM) efficiently prevented the reduction in HMC3 cell viability. In conclusion, this is the first evidence that human microglia can produce allopregnanolone and that this neurosteroid is increasingly released in response to oxidative stress, to tentatively support the microglia's survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lucchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Codeluppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Rustichelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Yim A, Smith C, Brown AM. Osteopontin/secreted phosphoprotein-1 harnesses glial-, immune-, and neuronal cell ligand-receptor interactions to sense and regulate acute and chronic neuroinflammation. Immunol Rev 2022; 311:224-233. [PMID: 35451082 PMCID: PMC9790650 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) also known by its official gene designation secreted phosphoprotein-1 (SPP1) is a fascinating, multifunctional protein expressed in a number of cell types that functions not only in intercellular communication, but also in the extracellular matrix (ECM). OPN/SPP1 possesses cytokine, chemokine, and signal transduction functions by virtue of modular structural motifs that provide interaction surfaces for integrins and CD44-variant receptors. In humans, there are three experimentally verified splice variants of OPN/SPP1 and CD44's ten exons are also alternatively spiced in a cell/tissue-specific manner, although very little is known about how this is regulated in the central nervous system (CNS). Post-translational modifications of phosphorylation, glycosylation, and localized cleavage by specific proteases in the cells and tissues where OPN/SPP1 functions, provides additional layers of specificity. However, the former make elucidating the exact molecular mechanisms of OPN/SPP1 function more complex. Flexibility in OPN/SPP1 structure and its engagement with integrins having the ability to transmit signals in inside-out and outside-in direction, is likely why OPN/SPP1 can serve as an early detector of inflammation and ongoing tissue damage in response to cancer, stroke, traumatic brain injury, pathogenic infection, and neurodegeneration, processes that impair tissue homeostasis. This review will focus on what is currently known about OPN/SPP1 function in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Yim
- NeurologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Christian Smith
- NeurologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Amanda M. Brown
- NeurologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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8
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Lin YC, Cheung G, Porter E, Papadopoulos V. The neurosteroid pregnenolone is synthesized by a mitochondrial P450 enzyme other than CYP11A1 in human glial cells. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102110. [PMID: 35688208 PMCID: PMC9278081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102110] [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: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosteroids, modulators of neuronal and glial cell functions, are synthesized in the nervous system from cholesterol. In peripheral steroidogenic tissues, cholesterol is converted to the major steroid precursor pregnenolone by the CYP11A1 enzyme. Although pregnenolone is one of the most abundant neurosteroids in the brain, expression of CYP11A1 is difficult to detect. We found that human glial cells produced pregnenolone, detectable by mass spectrometry and ELISA, despite the absence of observable immunoreactive CYP11A1 protein. Unlike testicular and adrenal cortical cells, pregnenolone production in glial cells was not inhibited by CYP11A1 inhibitors DL-aminoglutethimide and ketoconazole. Furthermore, addition of hydroxycholesterols increased pregnenolone synthesis, suggesting desmolase activity that was not blocked by DL-aminoglutethimide or ketoconazole. We explored three different possibilities for an alternative pathway for glial cell pregnenolone synthesis: (1) regulation by reactive oxygen species, (2) metabolism via a different CYP11A1 isoform, and (3) metabolism via another CYP450 enzyme. First, we found oxidants and antioxidants had no significant effects on pregnenolone synthesis, suggesting it is not regulated by reactive oxygen species. Second, overexpression of CYP11A1 isoform b did not alter synthesis, indicating use of another CYP11A1 isoform is unlikely. Finally, we show nitric oxide and iron chelators deferoxamine and deferiprone significantly inhibited pregnenolone production, indicating involvement of another CYP450 enzyme. Ultimately, knockdown of endoplasmic reticulum cofactor NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase had no effect, while knockdown of mitochondrial CYP450 cofactor ferredoxin reductase inhibited pregnenolone production. These data suggest that pregnenolone is synthesized by a mitochondrial cytochrome P450 enzyme other than CYP11A1 in human glial cells.
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Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Falvo E, Giatti S, Melcangi RC. Allopregnanolone: An overview on its synthesis and effects. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e12996. [PMID: 34189791 PMCID: PMC9285581 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone, a 3α,5α-progesterone metabolite, acts as a potent allosteric modulator of the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor. In the present review, the synthesis of this neuroactive steroid occurring in the nervous system is discussed with respect to physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, its physiological and neuroprotective effects are also reported. Interestingly, the levels of this neuroactive steroid, as well as its effects, are sex-dimorphic, suggesting a possible gender medicine based on this neuroactive steroid for neurological disorders. However, allopregnanolone presents low bioavailability and extensive hepatic metabolism, limiting its use as a drug. Therefore, synthetic analogues or a different therapeutic strategy able to increase allopregnanolone levels have been proposed to overcome any pharmacokinetic issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
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10
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Kolmogorova D, Ah-Yen EG, Taylor BC, Vaggas T, Liang J, Davis T, Ismail N. Sex-specific responses of the pubertal neuroimmune axis in CD-1 mice. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 13:100229. [PMID: 34589744 PMCID: PMC8474685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic relationship between the sexually dimorphic neuroimmune system and the sex-specific outcomes of a pubertal immune challenge is unclear. Therefore, we examined sex differences in the progression of cytotoxic microglial responses and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption to a peripubertal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment in brain regions relevant to stress responses and cognitive function. Six-week-old (i.e., stress-sensitive pubertal period) male and female CD-1 mice were treated with LPS (1.5 mg/kg body weight, ip) or 0.9% saline (LPS-matched volume, ip). Sex and treatment differences in microglial (Iba1+) and apoptotic neuronal (caspase-3+/NeuN+) and non-neuronal (caspase-3+/NeuN−) expression were examined in the hippocampus, medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and paraventricular nucleus 24 h (sickness), one week (symptomatic recovery) and four weeks (early adulthood) post-treatment (n = 8/group). Microglial morphology was quantified with fractal analyses. Group differences in BBB permeability to 14C-sucrose were examined 24 h (whole-brain, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and cerebellum) and one week (whole-brain) post-treatment. The acute effects of pubertal LPS were specific to females (i.e., global BBB disruption, altered microglial expression and morphology in the mPFC and hippocampus, increased hippocampal apoptosis). The residual effects of pubertal LPS-induced sickness observed in microglia persisted into adulthood in a sex- and region-specific manner. In addition to highlighting these sex-specific responses of the pubertal neuroimmune system, we report baseline region-specific sex differences in microglia spanning puberty through adulthood. We propose that these sex differences in neuroimmune-neurovascular interactions during the stress-sensitive pubertal period create sex biases in stress-related disorders of brain and behaviour. Pubertal LPS alters baseline sex differences in microglial numbers and morphology. Pubertal CD-1 mice mount sexually dimorphic neuroimmune responses to systemic LPS. Treatment effects on microglial expression and morphology differ by sex and region. The acute LPS-induced effects were specific to females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Kolmogorova
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Grace Ah-Yen
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tiffany Vaggas
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Jacky Liang
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tama Davis
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nafissa Ismail
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Lin YC, Papadopoulos V. Neurosteroidogenic enzymes: CYP11A1 in the central nervous system. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 62:100925. [PMID: 34015388 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids, steroid hormones synthesized locally in the nervous system, have important neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. Progress in neurosteroid research has led to the successful translation of allopregnanolone into an approved therapy for postpartum depression. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the assumption that steroidogenesis is exactly the same between the nervous system and the periphery. This review focuses on CYP11A1, the only enzyme currently known to catalyze the first reaction in steroidogenesis to produce pregnenolone, the precursor to all other steroids. Although CYP11A1 mRNA has been found in brain of many mammals, the presence of CYP11A1 protein has been difficult to detect, particularly in humans. Here, we highlight the discrepancies in the current evidence for CYP11A1 in the central nervous system and propose new directions for understanding neurosteroidogenesis, which will be crucial for developing neurosteroid-based therapies for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Christina Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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12
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Nutma E, Gebro E, Marzin MC, van der Valk P, Matthews PM, Owen DR, Amor S. Activated microglia do not increase 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) expression in the multiple sclerosis brain. Glia 2021; 69:2447-2458. [PMID: 34145928 PMCID: PMC8453709 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
To monitor innate immune responses in the CNS, the 18 kDa Translocator protein (TSPO) is a frequently used target for PET imaging. The frequent assumption that increased TSPO expression in the human CNS reflects pro-inflammatory activation of microglia has been extrapolated from rodent studies. However, TSPO expression does not increase in activated human microglia in vitro. Studies of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions reveal that TSPO is not restricted to pro-inflammatory microglia/macrophages, but also present in homeostatic or reparative microglia. Here, we investigated quantitative relationships between TSPO expression and microglia/macrophage phenotypes in white matter and lesions of brains with MS pathology. In white matter from brains with no disease pathology, normal appearing white matter (NAWM), active MS lesions and chronic active lesion rims, over 95% of TSPO+ cells are microglia/macrophages. Homeostatic microglial markers in NAWM and control tissue are lost/reduced in active lesions and chronic active lesion rims, reflecting cell activation. Nevertheless, pixel analysis of TSPO+ cells (n = 12,225) revealed that TSPO expression per cell is no higher in active lesions and chronic active lesion rims (where myeloid cells are activated) relative to NAWM and control. This data suggests that whilst almost all the TSPO signal in active lesions, chronic active lesion rims, NAWM and control is associated with microglia/macrophages, their TSPO expression predominantly reflects cell density and not activation phenotype. This finding has implications for the interpretation of TSPO PET signal in MS and other CNS diseases, and further demonstrates the limitation of extrapolating TSPO biology from rodents to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Nutma
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, HV, Netherlands
| | - Emeline Gebro
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, HV, Netherlands
| | - Manuel C Marzin
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, HV, Netherlands
| | - Paul van der Valk
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, HV, Netherlands
| | - Paul M Matthews
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.,UK Dementia Research Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David R Owen
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sandra Amor
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, HV, Netherlands.,Department of Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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13
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Jolivel V, Brun S, Binamé F, Benyounes J, Taleb O, Bagnard D, De Sèze J, Patte-Mensah C, Mensah-Nyagan AG. Microglial Cell Morphology and Phagocytic Activity Are Critically Regulated by the Neurosteroid Allopregnanolone: A Possible Role in Neuroprotection. Cells 2021; 10:698. [PMID: 33801063 PMCID: PMC8004004 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells are key players in neural pathogenesis and microglial function regulation appears to be pivotal in controlling neuroinflammatory/neurological diseases. Here, we investigated the effects and mechanism of action of neurosteroid allopregnanolone (ALLO) on murine microglial BV-2 cells and primary microglia in order to determine ALLO-induced immunomodulatory potential and to provide new insights for the development of both natural and safe neuroprotective strategies targeting microglia. Indeed, ALLO-treatment is increasingly suggested as beneficial in various models of neurological disorders but the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. Therefore, the microglial cells were cultured with various serum concentrations to mimic the blood-brain-barrier rupture and to induce their activation. Proliferation, viability, RT-qPCR, phagocytosis, and morphology analyzes, as well as migration with time-lapse imaging and quantitative morphodynamic methods, were combined to investigate ALLO actions on microglia. BV-2 cells express subunits of GABA-A receptor that mediates ALLO activity. ALLO (10µM) induced microglial cell process extension and decreased migratory capacity. Interestingly, ALLO modulated the phagocytic activity of BV-2 cells and primary microglia. Our results, which show a direct effect of ALLO on microglial morphology and phagocytic function, suggest that the natural neurosteroid-based approach may contribute to developing effective strategies against neurological disorders that are evoked by microglia-related abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ayikoe-Guy Mensah-Nyagan
- Biopathologie de la Myéline, Neuroprotection et Stratégies Thérapeutiques, INSERM U1119, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg (CRBS), Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (V.J.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (J.B.); (O.T.); (D.B.); (J.D.S.); (C.P.-M.)
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14
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De novo Neurosteroidogenesis in Human Microglia: Involvement of the 18 kDa Translocator Protein. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063115. [PMID: 33803741 PMCID: PMC8003294 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are potent modulators of microglial functions and are capable of counteracting their excessive reactivity. This action has mainly been ascribed to neuroactive steroids released from other sources, as microglia have been defined unable to produce neurosteroids de novo. Unexpectedly, immortalized murine microglia recently exhibited this de novo biosynthesis; herein, de novo neurosteroidogenesis was characterized in immortalized human microglia. The results demonstrated that C20 and HMC3 microglial cells constitutively express members of the neurosteroidogenesis multiprotein machinery-in particular, the transduceosome members StAR and TSPO, and the enzyme CYP11A1. Moreover, both cell lines produce pregnenolone and transcriptionally express the enzymes involved in neurosteroidogenesis. The high TSPO expression levels observed in microglia prompted us to assess its role in de novo neurosteroidogenesis. TSPO siRNA and TSPO synthetic ligand treatments were used to reduce and prompt TSPO function, respectively. The TSPO expression downregulation compromised the de novo neurosteroidogenesis and led to an increase in StAR expression, probably as a compensatory mechanism. The pharmacological TSPO stimulation the de novo neurosteroidogenesis improved in turn the neurosteroid-mediated release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that de novo neurosteroidogenesis occurs in human microglia, unravelling a new mechanism potentially useful for future therapeutic purposes.
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15
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Avallone R, Lucchi C, Puja G, Codeluppi A, Filaferro M, Vitale G, Rustichelli C, Biagini G. BV-2 Microglial Cells Respond to Rotenone Toxic Insult by Modifying Pregnenolone, 5α-Dihydroprogesterone and Pregnanolone Levels. Cells 2020; 9:E2091. [PMID: 32933155 PMCID: PMC7563827 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation, whose distinctive sign is the activation of microglia, is supposed to play a key role in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of this investigation was to determine levels of neurosteroids produced by resting and injured BV-2 microglial cells. BV-2 cells were exposed to increasing concentrations of rotenone to progressively reduce their viability by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. BV-2 cell viability was significantly reduced 24, 48 and 72 h after rotenone (50-1000 nM) exposure. Concomitantly, rotenone (50-100 nM) determined a dose-independent augmentation of ROS production. Then, BV-2 cells were exposed to a single, threshold dose of rotenone (75 nM) to evaluate the overtime release of neurosteroids. In particular, pregnenolone, pregnenolone sulfate, progesterone, 5α-dihydroprogesterone (5α-DHP), allopregnanolone, and pregnanolone, were quantified in the culture medium by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. BV-2 cells synthesized all the investigated neurosteroids and, after exposure to rotenone, 5αDHP and pregnanolone production was remarkably increased. In conclusion, we found that BV-2 cells not only synthesize several neurosteroids, but further increase this production following oxidative damage. Pregnanolone and 5α-DHP may play a role in modifying the progression of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.P.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Chiara Lucchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (M.F.); (G.B.)
| | - Giulia Puja
- Department of Life Sciences, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.P.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Alessandro Codeluppi
- Department of Life Sciences, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.P.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (M.F.); (G.B.)
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.P.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Cecilia Rustichelli
- Department of Life Sciences, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.P.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (M.F.); (G.B.)
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16
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Vegeto E, Villa A, Della Torre S, Crippa V, Rusmini P, Cristofani R, Galbiati M, Maggi A, Poletti A. The Role of Sex and Sex Hormones in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5572525. [PMID: 31544208 PMCID: PMC7156855 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a wide class of disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) with unknown etiology. Several factors were hypothesized to be involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases, including genetic and environmental factors. Many of these diseases show a sex prevalence and sex steroids were shown to have a role in the progression of specific forms of neurodegeneration. Estrogens were reported to be neuroprotective through their action on cognate nuclear and membrane receptors, while adverse effects of male hormones have been described on neuronal cells, although some data also suggest neuroprotective activities. The response of the CNS to sex steroids is a complex and integrated process that depends on (i) the type and amount of the cognate steroid receptor and (ii) the target cell type-either neurons, glia, or microglia. Moreover, the levels of sex steroids in the CNS fluctuate due to gonadal activities and to local metabolism and synthesis. Importantly, biochemical processes involved in the pathogenesis of NDs are increasingly being recognized as different between the two sexes and as influenced by sex steroids. The aim of this review is to present current state-of-the-art understanding on the potential role of sex steroids and their receptors on the onset and progression of major neurodegenerative disorders, namely, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and the peculiar motoneuron disease spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, in which hormonal therapy is potentially useful as disease modifier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Vegeto
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Villa
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute (DiSS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Della Torre
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Valeria Crippa
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Rusmini
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Riccardo Cristofani
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Mariarita Galbiati
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Adriana Maggi
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Angelo Poletti
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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17
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Physiopathological role of the enzymatic complex 5α-reductase and 3α/β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase in the generation of progesterone and testosterone neuroactive metabolites. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100836. [PMID: 32217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The enzymatic complex 5α-reductase (5α-R) and 3α/3β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase (HSOR) is expressed in the nervous system, where it transforms progesterone (PROG) and testosterone (T) into neuroactive metabolites. These metabolites regulate myelination, brain maturation, neurotransmission, reproductive behavior and the stress response. The expression of 5α-R and 3α-HSOR and the levels of PROG and T reduced metabolites show regional and sex differences in the nervous system and are affected by changing physiological conditions as well as by neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. A decrease in their nervous tissue levels may negatively impact the course and outcome of some pathological events. However, in other pathological conditions their increased levels may have a negative impact. Thus, the use of synthetic analogues of these steroids or 5α-R modulation have been proposed as therapeutic approaches for several nervous system pathologies. However, further research is needed to fully understand the consequences of these manipulations, in particular with 5α-R inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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18
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Contreras-Zárate MJ, Cittelly DM. Sex steroid hormone function in the brain niche: Implications for brain metastatic colonization and progression. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2020; 5:e1241. [PMID: 33350105 PMCID: PMC8022872 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While sex hormones and their receptors play well-known roles in progression of primary tumors through direct action on sex steroid hormone-responsive cancer cells, emerging evidence suggest that hormones also play important roles in metastatic progression by modulating the tumor microenvironment. Estrogens and androgens synthesized in gonads and within the brain influence memory, behavior, and outcomes of brain pathologies. Yet, their impact on brain metastatic colonization and progression is just beginning to be explored. RECENT FINDINGS Estradiol and testosterone cross the blood-brain barrier and are synthesized de novo in astrocytes and other cells within the adult brain. Circulating and brain-synthesized estrogens have been shown to promote brain metastatic colonization of tumors lacking estrogen receptors (ERs), through mechanisms involving the upregulation of growth factors and neurotrophins in ER+ reactive astrocytes. In this review, we discuss additional mechanisms by which hormones may influence brain metastases, through modulation of brain endothelial cells, astrocytes, and microglia. CONCLUSION A greater understanding of hormone-brain-tumor interactions may shed further light on the mechanisms underlying the adaptation of cancer cells to the brain niche, and provide therapeutic alternatives modulating the brain metastatic niche.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana M Cittelly
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
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19
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Duncan KA, Saldanha CJ. Central aromatization: A dramatic and responsive defense against threat and trauma to the vertebrate brain. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100816. [PMID: 31786088 PMCID: PMC9366903 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Aromatase is the requisite and limiting enzyme in the production of estrogens from androgens. Estrogens synthesized centrally have more recently emerged as potent neuroprotectants in the vertebrate brain. Studies in rodents and songbirds have identified key mechanisms that underlie both; the injury-dependent induction of central aromatization, and the protective effects of centrally synthesized estrogens. Injury-induced aromatase expression in astrocytes occurs following a broad range of traumatic brain damage including excitotoxic, penetrating, and concussive injury. Responses to neural insult such as edema and inflammation involve signaling pathways the components of which are excellent candidates as inducers of this astrocytic response. Finally, estradiol from astrocytes exerts a paracrine neuroprotective influence via the potent inhibition of inflammatory pathways. Taken together, these data suggest a novel role for neural aromatization as a protective mechanism against the threat of inflammation and suggests that central estrogen provision is a wide-ranging neuroprotectant in the vertebrate brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli A Duncan
- Department of Biology, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY 12604, United States.
| | - Colin J Saldanha
- Department of Biology and Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, Washington, DC 20016, United States.
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20
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Tao T, Liu GJ, Shi X, Zhou Y, Lu Y, Gao YY, Zhang XS, Wang H, Wu LY, Chen CL, Zhuang Z, Li W, Hang CH. DHEA Attenuates Microglial Activation via Induction of JMJD3 in Experimental Subarachnoid Haemorrhage. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:243. [PMID: 31779639 PMCID: PMC6883548 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1641-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microglia are resident immune cells in the central nervous system and central to the innate immune system. Excessive activation of microglia after subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) contributes greatly to early brain injury, which is responsible for poor outcomes. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid hormone enriched in the brain, has recently been found to regulate microglial activation. The purpose of this study was to address the role of DHEA in SAH. Methods We used in vivo models of endovascular perforation and in vitro models of haemoglobin exposure to illustrate the effects of DHEA on microglia in SAH. Results In experimental SAH mice, exogenous DHEA administration increased DHEA levels in the brain and modulated microglial activation. Ameliorated neuronal damage and improved neurological outcomes were also observed in the SAH mice pretreated with DHEA, suggesting neuronal protective effects of DHEA. In cultured microglia, DHEA elevated the mRNA and protein levels of Jumonji d3 (JMJD3, histone 3 demethylase) after haemoglobin exposure, downregulated the H3K27me3 level, and inhibited the transcription of proinflammatory genes. The devastating proinflammatory microglia-mediated effects on primary neurons were also attenuated by DHEA; however, specific inhibition of JMJD3 abolished the protective effects of DHEA. We next verified that DHEA-induced JMJD3 expression, at least in part, through the tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA)/Akt signalling pathway. Conclusions DHEA has a neuroprotective effect after SAH. Moreover, DHEA increases microglial JMJD3 expression to regulate proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory microglial activation after haemoglobin exposure, thereby suppressing inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guang-Jie Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- Department of Neurology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong-Yue Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang-Sheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100032, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ling-Yun Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chun-Lei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zong Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chun-Hua Hang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
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21
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Yilmaz C, Karali K, Fodelianaki G, Gravanis A, Chavakis T, Charalampopoulos I, Alexaki VI. Neurosteroids as regulators of neuroinflammation. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100788. [PMID: 31513776 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological protective response in the context of infection and injury. However, neuroinflammation, especially if chronic, may also drive neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), display inflammatory activation of microglia and astrocytes. Intriguingly, the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly steroidogenic environment synthesizing steroids de novo, as well as metabolizing steroids deriving from the circulation. Neurosteroid synthesis can be substantially affected by neuroinflammation, while, in turn, several steroids, such as 17β-estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and allopregnanolone, can regulate neuroinflammatory responses. Here, we review the role of neurosteroids in neuroinflammation in the context of MS, AD, PD and TBI and describe underlying molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we introduce the concept that synthetic neurosteroid analogues could be potentially utilized for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canelif Yilmaz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kanelina Karali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Georgia Fodelianaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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22
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Milenkovic VM, Slim D, Bader S, Koch V, Heinl ES, Alvarez-Carbonell D, Nothdurfter C, Rupprecht R, Wetzel CH. CRISPR-Cas9 Mediated TSPO Gene Knockout alters Respiration and Cellular Metabolism in Human Primary Microglia Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133359. [PMID: 31323920 PMCID: PMC6651328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) is an evolutionary conserved cholesterol binding protein localized in the outer mitochondrial membrane. It has been implicated in the regulation of various cellular processes including oxidative stress, proliferation, apoptosis, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Since the expression of TSPO in activated microglia is upregulated in various neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders, we set out to examine the role of TSPO in an immortalized human microglia C20 cell line. To this end, we performed a dual approach and used (i) lentiviral shRNA silencing to reduce TSPO expression, and (ii) the CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate complete TSPO knockout microglia cell lines. Functional characterization of control and TSPO knockdown as well as knockout cells, revealed only low de novo steroidogenesis in C20 cells, which was not dependent on the level of TSPO expression or influenced by the treatment with TSPO-specific ligands. In contrast to TSPO knockdown C20 cells, which did not show altered mitochondrial function, the TSPO deficient knockout cells displayed a significantly decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and cytosolic Ca2+ levels, as well as reduced respiratory function. Performing the rescue experiment by lentiviral overexpression of TSPO in knockout cells, increased oxygen consumption and restored respiratory function. Our study provides further evidence for a significant role of TSPO in cellular and mitochondrial metabolism and demonstrates that different phenotypes of mitochondrial function are dependent on the level of TSPO expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir M Milenkovic
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Dounia Slim
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Bader
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Victoria Koch
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Elena-Sofia Heinl
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - David Alvarez-Carbonell
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Caroline Nothdurfter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christian H Wetzel
- Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
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23
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Shahoei SH, Nelson ER. Nuclear receptors, cholesterol homeostasis and the immune system. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 191:105364. [PMID: 31002862 PMCID: PMC6589364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol is essential for maintaining membrane fluidity in eukaryotes. Additionally, the synthetic cascade of cholesterol results in precursor molecules important for cellular function such as lipid raft formation and protein prenylation. As such, cholesterol homeostasis is tightly regulated. Interestingly, it is now known that some cholesterol precursors and many metabolites serve as active signaling molecules, binding to different classes of receptors including the nuclear receptors. Furthermore, many cholesterol metabolites or their nuclear receptors have been implicated in the regulation of the immune system in normal physiology and disease. Therefore, in this focused review, cholesterol homeostasis and nuclear receptors involved in this regulation will be discussed, with particular emphasis on how these cascades influence the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayyed Hamed Shahoei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Erik R Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.
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24
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Microglia along sex lines: From brain colonization, maturation and function, to implication in neurodevelopmental disorders. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 94:152-163. [PMID: 31201858 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In addition to their traditional role as immune sentinels, recent discoveries over the last decade have shown that microglial functions now include regulation of neuronal/glial cell migration, differentiation and maturation, as well as neuronal network formation. It was thus proposed that disruption of these microglial roles, during critical periods of brain development, could lead to the pathological onset of several neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and major depressive disorder. The prevalence of these disorders exhibits a clear distinction along sex lines with very little known about the mechanisms underlying this difference. One of the fundamental discoveries that arose from recent research into the physiological roles of microglia in neurodevelopment is their sexual dimorphism, raising the intriguing possibility that sex differences in microglial colonization, maturation and/or function in the developing brain could underlie the emergence of various neurodevelopmental disorders. This review discusses the physiological roles of microglia across neurodevelopment, these roles in the two sexes, and the recent evidence that microglial sexually dimorphic nature may contribute, at least partially, to neurodevelopmental disorders.
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25
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Tay TL, Carrier M, Tremblay MÈ. Physiology of Microglia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1175:129-148. [PMID: 31583587 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-9913-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Microglia constitute the major immune cells that permanently reside in the central nervous system (CNS) alongside neurons and other glial cells. These resident immune cells are critical for proper brain development, actively maintain brain health throughout the lifespan and rapidly adapt their function to the physiological or pathophysiological needs of the organism. Cutting-edge fate mapping and imaging techniques applied to animal models enabled a revolution in our understanding of their roles during normal physiological conditions. Here, we highlight studies that demonstrate the embryonic yolk sac origin of microglia and describe factors, including crosstalk with the periphery and external environment, that regulate their differentiation, homeostasis and function in the context of healthy CNS. The diversity of microglial phenotypes observed across the lifespan, between brain compartments and between sexes is also discussed. Understanding what defines specific microglial phenotypes is critical for the development of innovative therapies to modulate their effector functions and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuan Leng Tay
- Institute of Biology I, University of Freiburg, Hauptstr. 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany. .,Cluster of Excellence BrainLinks-BrainTools, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. .,Institute of Biology III, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestr. 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Micaël Carrier
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada.
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26
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Baker ME, Lathe R. The promiscuous estrogen receptor: Evolution of physiological estrogens and response to phytochemicals and endocrine disruptors. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 184:29-37. [PMID: 30009950 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Many actions of estradiol (E2), the principal physiological estrogen in vertebrates, are mediated by estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and ERβ. An important physiological feature of vertebrate ERs is their promiscuous response to several physiological steroids, including estradiol (E2), Δ5-androstenediol, 5α-androstanediol, and 27-hydroxycholesterol. A novel structural characteristic of Δ5-androstenediol, 5α-androstanediol, and 27-hydroxycholesterol is the presence of a C19 methyl group, which precludes the presence of an aromatic A ring with a C3 phenolic group that is a defining property of E2. The structural diversity of these estrogens can explain the response of the ER to synthetic chemicals such as bisphenol A and DDT, which disrupt estrogen physiology in vertebrates, and the estrogenic activity of a variety of plant-derived chemicals such as genistein, coumestrol, and resveratrol. Diversity in the A ring of physiological estrogens also expands potential structures of industrial chemicals that can act as endocrine disruptors. Compared to E2, synthesis of 27-hydroxycholesterol and Δ5-androstenediol is simpler, leading us, based on parsimony, to propose that one or both of these steroids or a related metabolite was a physiological estrogen early in the evolution of the ER, with E2 assuming this role later as the canonical estrogen. In addition to the well-studied role of the ER in reproductive physiology, the ER also is an important transcription factor in non-reproductive tissues such as the cardiovascular system, kidney, bone, and brain. Some of these ER actions in non-reproductive tissues appeared early in vertebrate evolution, long before the emergence of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Baker
- Division of Nephrology-Hypertension, Department of Medicine, 0693, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0693, USA.
| | - Richard Lathe
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Little France, Edinburgh, UK.
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27
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Powrie YSL, Smith C. Central intracrine DHEA synthesis in ageing-related neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration: therapeutic potential? J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:289. [PMID: 30326923 PMCID: PMC6192186 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1324-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is a well-known fact that DHEA declines on ageing and that it is linked to ageing-related neurodegeneration, which is characterised by gradual cognitive decline. Although DHEA is also associated with inflammation in the periphery, the link between DHEA and neuroinflammation in this context is less clear. This review drew from different bodies of literature to provide a more comprehensive picture of peripheral vs central endocrine shifts with advanced age—specifically in terms of DHEA. From this, we have formulated the hypothesis that DHEA decline is also linked to neuroinflammation and that increased localised availability of DHEA may have both therapeutic and preventative benefit to limit neurodegeneration. We provide a comprehensive discussion of literature on the potential for extragonadal DHEA synthesis by neuroglial cells and reflect on the feasibility of therapeutic manipulation of localised, central DHEA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y S L Powrie
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - C Smith
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa.
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28
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Rosin JM, Kurrasch DM. Bisphenol A and microglia: could microglia be responsive to this environmental contaminant during neural development? Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2018; 315:E279-E285. [PMID: 29812986 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00443.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in the functional role of microglia in the developing brain. In our laboratory, we have become particularly intrigued as to whether fetal microglia in the embryonic brain are susceptible to maternal challenges in utero (e.g., maternal infection, stress) and, if so, whether their precocious activation could then adversely influence brain development. One such challenge that is newly arising in this field is whether microglia might be downstream targets to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as the plasticizer bisphenol A (BPA), which functions in part by mimicking estrogen structure and function. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that gestational exposure to BPA has adverse effects on brain development, although the exact mechanisms are still emerging. Given that microglia express estrogen receptors and steroid-producing enzymes, microglia might be an unappreciated target of BPA. Mechanistically, we propose that BPA binding to estrogen receptors within microglia initiates transcription of downstream target genes, which then leads to activation of microglia that can then perhaps adversely influence brain development. Here, we first briefly outline the current understanding of how microglia may influence brain development and then describe how this literature overlaps with our understanding of BPA's effects during similar time points. We also outline the current literature demonstrating that BPA exposure affects microglia. We conclude by discussing our thoughts on the mechanisms through which exposure to BPA could disrupt normal microglia functions, ultimately affecting brain development that could potentially lead to lasting behavioral effects and perhaps even neuroendocrine diseases such as obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Rosin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
| | - Deborah M Kurrasch
- Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada
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29
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DHEA inhibits acute microglia-mediated inflammation through activation of the TrkA-Akt1/2-CREB-Jmjd3 pathway. Mol Psychiatry 2018; 23:1410-1420. [PMID: 28894299 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, produced by the adrenals, the gonads and the brain. DHEA was previously shown to bind to the nerve growth factor receptor, tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA), and to thereby exert neuroprotective effects. Here we show that DHEA reduces microglia-mediated inflammation in an acute lipopolysaccharide-induced neuro-inflammation model in mice and in cultured microglia in vitro. DHEA regulates microglial inflammatory responses through phosphorylation of TrkA and subsequent activation of a pathway involving Akt1/Akt2 and cAMP response element-binding protein. The latter induces the expression of the histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylase Jumonji d3 (Jmjd3), which thereby controls the expression of inflammation-related genes and microglial polarization. Together, our data indicate that DHEA-activated TrkA signaling is a potent regulator of microglia-mediated inflammation in a Jmjd3-dependent manner, thereby providing the platform for potential future therapeutic interventions in neuro-inflammatory pathologies.
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30
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Rubinow KB. An intracrine view of sex steroids, immunity, and metabolic regulation. Mol Metab 2018; 15:92-103. [PMID: 29551633 PMCID: PMC6066741 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the past two decades, parallel recognition has grown of the importance of both sex steroids and immune activity in metabolic regulation. More recently, these discrete areas have been integrated in studies examining the metabolic effects of sex steroid immunomodulation. Implicit in these studies has been a traditional, endocrine model of sex steroid delivery from the gonads to target cells, including immune cells. Thus, research to date has focused on the metabolic effects of sex steroid receptor signaling in immune cells. This endocrine model, however, overlooks the extensive capacity of immune cells to generate and metabolize sex steroids, enabling the production of sex steroids for intracrine signaling – that is, sex steroid production for signaling within the cell of origin. Intracrine function allows highly cell-autonomous regulation of sex steroid exposure, and sex steroid secretion by immune cells could confer paracrine signaling effects in neighboring cells within metabolic tissues. In this review, immune cell intracrinology will denote sex steroid production within immune cells for either intracrine or paracrine signaling. This intracrine capacity of immune cells has been well established, and prior work has supported its importance in autoimmune disorders, trauma, and cancer. The potential relevance of immune cell intracrine function to the regulation of energy balance, body weight, body composition, and insulin sensitivity has yet to be explored. Scope of review The following review will detail findings to date regarding the steroidogenic and steroid metabolizing capacity of immune cells, the regulation of immune cell intracrine function, and the biological effects of immune-derived sex steroids, including the clinical relevance of immune cell intracrinology in fields other than metabolism. These findings will serve as the basis for a proposed model of immune cell intracrinology constituting a new frontier in metabolism research. Major conclusions The development of highly sensitive mass spectrometric methods for sex steroid measurement and quantitation of metabolic flux now allows unprecedented ability to interrogate sex steroid production, metabolism and secretion by immune cells. Immune cell intracrinology could reveal key mechanisms underlying immune cell-mediated metabolic regulation. Sex steroids exert immunomodulatory effects that may influence metabolic health. Immune cells can synthesize, modify, and metabolize sex steroids. Immune cell-derived sex steroids may play intracrine, autocrine, paracrine, and possibly even endocrine roles. Immune cell steroidogenesis is a largely unexplored area of metabolism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katya B Rubinow
- Diabetes Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, School of Medicine, 850 Republican St., Box 358055, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
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31
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Hwang DS, Kim N, Choi JG, Kim HG, Kim H, Oh MS. Dangguijakyak-san ameliorates memory deficits in ovariectomized mice by upregulating hippocampal estrogen synthesis. Altern Ther Health Med 2017; 17:501. [PMID: 29178947 PMCID: PMC5702078 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-2015-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Dangguijakyak-san (DJS) is an herbal formulation that has been clinically applicable for treating postmenopausal symptoms and neurological disorders. It is reported that hippocampal estrogen attenuates memory impairment via neuroprotection and synaptogenesis. However, the effect of DJS on hippocampal estrogen synthesis remains unknown. In this study, we explored the effect of DJS and its neuroprotective mechanism against memory impairment in ovariectomized (OVX) mice, with respect to hippocampal estrogen stimulation. Methods Cell cultures were prepared from the hippocampi of 18-day-old embryos from timed pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats. The hippocampi were dissected, collected, dissociated, and plated in 60-mm dishes. The cells were treated with DJS for 48 h and the supernatant was collected to determine estrogen levels. Female ICR mice (8-weeks-old) were housed for 1 week and ovariectomy was performed to remove the influence of ovary-synthesized estrogens. Following a 2-week post-surgical recovery period, the mice were administrated with DJS (50 and 100 mg/kg/day, p.o.) or 17β-estradiol (200 μg/kg/day, i.p.) once daily for 21 days. Hippocampal and serum estrogen levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Memory behavioral tests, western blot, and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of DJS in this model. Results DJS treatment promoted estrogen synthesis in primary hippocampal cells and the hippocampus of OVX mice, resulting in the amelioration of OVX-induced memory impairment. Hippocampal estrogen stimulated by DJS treatment contributed to the activation of cAMP response element-binding protein and synaptic protein in OVX mice. Conclusion DJS may attenuate memory deficits in postmenopausal women via hippocampal estrogen synthesis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-017-2015-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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32
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Yao PL, Zhuo S, Mei H, Chen XF, Li N, Zhu TF, Chen ST, Wang JM, Hou RX, Le YY. Androgen alleviates neurotoxicity of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) by promoting microglial clearance of Aβ and inhibiting microglial inflammatory response to Aβ. CNS Neurosci Ther 2017; 23:855-865. [PMID: 28941188 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Lower androgen level in elderly men is a risk factor of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been reported that androgen reduces amyloid peptides (Aβ) production and increases Aβ degradation by neurons. Activated microglia are involved in AD by either clearing Aβ deposits through uptake of Aβ or releasing cytotoxic substances and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Here, we investigated the effect of androgen on Aβ uptake and clearance and Aβ-induced inflammatory response in microglia, on neuronal death induced by Aβ-activated microglia, and explored underlying mechanisms. METHODS Intracellular and extracellular Aβ were examined by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot. Amyloid peptides (Aβ) receptors, Aβ degrading enzymes, and pro-inflammatory cytokines were detected by RT-PCR, real-time PCR, and ELISA. Phosphorylation of MAP kinases and NF-κB was examined by Western blot. RESULTS We found that physiological concentrations of androgen enhanced Aβ42 uptake and clearance, suppressed Aβ42 -induced IL-1β and TNFα expression by murine microglia cell line N9 and primary microglia, and alleviated neuronal death induced by Aβ42 -activated microglia. Androgen administration also reduced Aβ42 -induced IL-1β expression and neuronal death in murine hippocampus. Mechanistic studies revealed that androgen promoted microglia to phagocytose and degrade Aβ42 through upregulating formyl peptide receptor 2 and endothelin-converting enzyme 1c expression, and inhibited Aβ42 -induced pro-inflammatory cytokines expression via suppressing MAPK p38 and NF-κB activation by Aβ42 , in an androgen receptor independent manner. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that androgen promotes microglia to phagocytose and clear Aβ42 and inhibits Aβ42 -induced inflammatory response, which may play an important role in reducing the neurotoxicity of Aβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Le Yao
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Zhuo
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Mei
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Fang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Teng-Fei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Ting Chen
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji-Ming Wang
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Rui-Xing Hou
- Ruihua Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Le
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Ruihua Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Owen DR, Narayan N, Wells L, Healy L, Smyth E, Rabiner EA, Galloway D, Williams JB, Lehr J, Mandhair H, Peferoen LA, Taylor PC, Amor S, Antel JP, Matthews PM, Moore CS. Pro-inflammatory activation of primary microglia and macrophages increases 18 kDa translocator protein expression in rodents but not humans. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2017; 37:2679-2690. [PMID: 28530125 PMCID: PMC5536262 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x17710182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The 18kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO) is the most commonly used tissue-specific marker of inflammation in positron emission tomography (PET) studies. It is expressed in myeloid cells such as microglia and macrophages, and in rodent myeloid cells expression increases with cellular activation. We assessed the effect of myeloid cell activation on TSPO gene expression in both primary human and rodent microglia and macrophages in vitro, and also measured TSPO radioligand binding with 3H-PBR28 in primary human macrophages. As observed previously, we found that TSPO expression increases (∼9-fold) in rodent-derived macrophages and microglia upon pro-inflammatory stimulation. However, TSPO expression does not increase with classical pro-inflammatory activation in primary human microglia (fold change 0.85 [95% CI 0.58-1.12], p = 0.47). In contrast, pro-inflammatory activation of human monocyte-derived macrophages is associated with a reduction of both TSPO gene expression (fold change 0.60 [95% CI 0.45-0.74], p = 0.02) and TSPO binding site abundance (fold change 0.61 [95% CI 0.49-0.73], p < 0.0001). These findings have important implications for understanding the biology of TSPO in activated macrophages and microglia in humans. They are also clinically relevant for the interpretation of PET studies using TSPO targeting radioligands, as they suggest changes in TSPO expression may reflect microglial and macrophage density rather than activation phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Owen
- 1 Division of Brain Sciences, Department of Medicine Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nehal Narayan
- 2 Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology & Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lisa Wells
- 3 Imanova Centre for Imaging Science, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Luke Healy
- 4 Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Erica Smyth
- 3 Imanova Centre for Imaging Science, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Eugenii A Rabiner
- 3 Imanova Centre for Imaging Science, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.,5 Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, King's College, London, UK
| | - Dylan Galloway
- 6 Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland
| | - John B Williams
- 6 Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland
| | - Joshua Lehr
- 6 Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland
| | - Harpreet Mandhair
- 2 Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology & Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura An Peferoen
- 7 Pathology Department, VU Medical Centre, VU University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C Taylor
- 2 Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology & Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sandra Amor
- 7 Pathology Department, VU Medical Centre, VU University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,8 Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of medicine & Dentistry Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Jack P Antel
- 4 Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul M Matthews
- 1 Division of Brain Sciences, Department of Medicine Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK.,9 UK Dementia Research Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Craig S Moore
- 6 Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland
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Characterization of aromatase expression in the spinal cord of an animal model of familial ALS. Brain Res Bull 2017; 132:180-189. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Tronnes AA, Koschnitzky J, Daza R, Hitti J, Ramirez JM, Hevner R. Effects of Lipopolysaccharide and Progesterone Exposures on Embryonic Cerebral Cortex Development in Mice. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:771-8. [PMID: 26621965 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115618273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to determine if progesterone pretreatment could ameliorate the detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation on cortical neurogenesis. Timed pregnant mouse dams (n = 8) were given intraperitoneal injections of progesterone (42 mg/kg) or vehicle on embryonic day 17.5. Two hours later, mice were given intraperitoneal LPS (140 μg/kg) or vehicle. Mice were sacrificed 16 hours later on embryonic day 18. Two-color immunofluorescence was performed with primary antibodies T-box transcription factor 2 (Tbr2), ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1), cleaved caspase 3 (CC3), and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU). Cells were counted, and statistical analysis was determined using analysis of variance and Tukey-Kramer method. The Tbr2 intermediate neural progenitor cell density decreased after LPS exposure (P = .0022). Pre-exposure to progesterone statistically increased Tbr2 intermediate neural progenitors compared to LPS treatment alone and was similar to controls (P = .0022). After LPS exposure, microglia displayed an activated phenotype, and cell density was increased (P < .001). Cell death rates were low among study groups but was increased in LPS exposure groups compared to progesterone alone (P = .0015). Lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation reduces prenatal neurogenesis in mice. Pre-exposure with progesterone is associated with increased neurogenesis. Progesterone may protect the preterm brain from defects of neurogenesis induced by inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlie A Tronnes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jenna Koschnitzky
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ray Daza
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jane Hitti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jan Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert Hevner
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Center for Integrative Brain Research, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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English AW, Wilhelm JC, Ward PJ. Exercise, neurotrophins, and axon regeneration in the PNS. Physiology (Bethesda) 2015; 29:437-45. [PMID: 25362637 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation and exercise are treatments to enhance recovery from peripheral nerve injuries. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and androgen receptor signaling are requirements for the effectiveness of these treatments. Increased neuronal activity is adequate to promote regeneration in injured nerves, but the dosing of activity and its relationship to neurotrophins and sex steroid hormones is less clear. Translation of these therapies will require principles associated with their cellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur W English
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Jennifer C Wilhelm
- Department of Psychology, College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Patricia J Ward
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; and
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Habib P, Beyer C. Regulation of brain microglia by female gonadal steroids. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 146:3-14. [PMID: 24607811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Microglial cells are the primary mediators of the CNS immune defense system and crucial for shaping inflammatory responses. They represent a highly dynamic cell population which is constantly moving and surveying their environment. Acute brain damage causes a local attraction and activation of this immune cell type which involves neuron-to-glia and glia-to-glia interactions. The prevailing view attributes microglia a "negative" role such as defense and debris elimination. More topical studies also suggest a protective and "positive" regulatory function. Estrogens and progestins exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in the CNS in acute and chronic brain diseases. Recent work revealed that microglial cells express subsets of classical and non-classical estrogen and progesterone receptors in a highly dynamic way. In this review article, we would like to stress the importance of microglia for the spreading of neural damage during hypoxia, their susceptibility to functional modulation by sex steroids, the potency of sex hormones to switch microglia from a pro-inflammatory M1 to neuroprotective M2 phenotype, and the regulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory properties including the inflammasome. We will further discuss the possibility that the neuroprotective action of sex steroids in the brain involves an early and direct modulation of local microglia cell function. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Sex steroids and brain disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pardes Habib
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Cordian Beyer
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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Fokidis HB, Adomat HH, Kharmate G, Hosseini-Beheshti E, Guns ES, Soma KK. Regulation of local steroidogenesis in the brain and in prostate cancer: lessons learned from interdisciplinary collaboration. Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 36:108-29. [PMID: 25223867 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids play critical roles in the regulation of the brain and many other organs. Traditionally, researchers have focused on sex steroid signaling that involves travel from the gonads via the circulation to intracellular receptors in target tissues. This classic concept has been challenged, however, by the growing number of cases in which steroids are synthesized locally and act locally within diverse tissues. For example, the brain and prostate carcinoma were previously considered targets of gonadal sex steroids, but under certain circumstances, these tissues can upregulate their steroidogenic potential, particularly when circulating sex steroid concentrations are low. We review some of the similarities and differences between local sex steroid synthesis in the brain and prostate cancer. We also share five lessons that we have learned during the course of our interdisciplinary collaboration, which brought together neuroendocrinologists and cancer biologists. These lessons have important implications for future research in both fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Bobby Fokidis
- Department of Biology, Rollins College, Winter Park, FL 37289, USA; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada.
| | - Hans H Adomat
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | | | | | - Emma S Guns
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; Department of Urological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Kiran K Soma
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Brain Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Sadasivam M, Ramatchandirin B, Balakrishnan S, Selvaraj K, Prahalathan C. The role of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in neuronal steroidogenesis under acute inflammation. Gene 2014; 552:249-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.09.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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40
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A potential function for neuronal exosomes: Sequestering intracerebral amyloid-β peptide. FEBS Lett 2014; 589:84-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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41
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Ngun TC, Ghahramani NM, Creek MM, Williams-Burris SM, Barseghyan H, Itoh Y, Sánchez FJ, McClusky R, Sinsheimer JS, Arnold AP, Vilain E. Feminized behavior and brain gene expression in a novel mouse model of Klinefelter Syndrome. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:1043-1057. [PMID: 24923877 PMCID: PMC4371776 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-014-0316-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) is the most common sex chromosome aneuploidy in men and is characterized by the presence of an additional X chromosome (XXY). In some Klinefelter males, certain traits may be feminized or shifted from the male-typical pattern towards a more female-typical one. Among them might be partner choice, one of the most sexually dimorphic traits in the animal kingdom. We investigated the extent of feminization in XXY male mice (XXYM) in partner preference and gene expression in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis/preoptic area and the striatum in mice from the Sex Chromosome Trisomy model. We tested for partner preference using a three-chambered apparatus in which the test mouse was free to choose between stimulus animals of either sex. We found that partner preference in XXYM was feminized. These differences were likely due to interactions of the additional X chromosome with the Y. We also discovered genes that differed in expression in XXYM versus XYM. Some of these genes are feminized in their expression pattern. Lastly, we also identified genes that differed only between XXYM versus XYM and not XXM versus XYM. Genes that are both feminized and unique to XXYM versus XYM represent strong candidates for dissecting the molecular pathways responsible for phenotypes present in KS/XXYM but not XXM. In sum, our results demonstrated that investigating behavioral and molecular feminization in XXY males can provide crucial information about the pathophysiology of KS and may aid our understanding of sex differences in brain and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuck C. Ngun
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Negar M. Ghahramani
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michelle M. Creek
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, WI, USA
| | - Shayna M. Williams-Burris
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hayk Barseghyan
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yuichiro Itoh
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Francisco J. Sánchez
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, WI, USA
| | - Rebecca McClusky
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janet S. Sinsheimer
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomath, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arthur P. Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eric Vilain
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Liu C, Ward PJ, English AW. The effects of exercise on synaptic stripping require androgen receptor signaling. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98633. [PMID: 24887087 PMCID: PMC4041790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Following peripheral nerve injury, synapses are withdrawn from axotomized motoneurons. Moderate daily treadmill exercise, which promotes axon regeneration of cut peripheral nerves, also influences this synaptic stripping. Different exercise protocols are required to promote axon regeneration in male and female animals, but the sex requirements for an effect of exercise on synaptic stripping are unknown. In male and female C57BL/6 mice, the sciatic nerve was transected in the mid-thigh. Mice were then exercised five days per week for two weeks, beginning on the third post-transection day. Half of the exercised mice were trained by walking slowly (10 M/min) on a level treadmill for one hour per day (continuous training). Other mice were interval trained; four short (two min) sprints at 20 M/min separated by five minute rest periods. A third group was untrained. The extent of synaptic contacts made by structures immunoreactive to vesicular glutamate transporter 1 and glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 onto axotomized motoneurons was studied in confocal images of retrogradely labeled cells. Both types of presumed synaptic contacts were reduced markedly in unexercised mice following nerve transection, relative to intact mice. No significant reduction was found in continuous trained males or interval trained females. Reductions in these contacts in interval trained males and continuous trained females were identical to that observed in untrained mice. Treatments with the anti-androgen, flutamide, blocked the effect of sex-appropriate exercise on synaptic contacts in both males and females. Moderate daily exercise has a potent effect on synaptic inputs to axotomized motoneurons. Successful effects of exercise have different requirements in males and females, but require androgen receptor signaling in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiyue Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Patricia J. Ward
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Arthur W. English
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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43
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Translocator protein 18 kDa negatively regulates inflammation in microglia. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2014; 9:424-37. [PMID: 24687172 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-014-9540-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) is a mitochondrial outer membrane protein. Although TSPO expression is up-regulated during neuroinflammation, the role of TSPO and its signaling mechanisms in regulation of neuroinflammation remains to be elucidated at the molecular level. Here we demonstrate that TSPO is a negative regulator of neuroinflammation in microglia. Over-expression of TSPO decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines upon lipopolysaccharide treatment while TSPO knock-down had the opposite effect. Anti-inflammatory activity of TSPO is also supported by increased expression of alternatively activated M2 stage-related genes. These data suggest that up-regulation of TSPO level during neuroinflammation may be an adaptive response mechanism. We also provide the evidence that the repressive activity of TSPO is at least partially mediated by the attenuation of NF-κB activation. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by loss of specific subsets of neurons at the particular anatomical regions of the central nervous system. Cause of neuronal death is still largely unknown, but it is becoming clear that neuroinflammation plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effects of TSPO on neuroinflammation can contribute to the therapeutic design for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Sadasivam M, Ramatchandirin B, Ayyanar A, Prahalathan C. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide differently modulates steroidogenic enzymes gene expressions in the brain and testis in rats. Neurosci Res 2014; 83:81-8. [PMID: 24594480 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2014.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major component of the cell wall of gram negative bacteria contributing to the pathogenesis of bacterial infection, in particular in those diseases affecting central nervous system and reproductive tissues. The present work is an attempt to study the regulation of steroidogenic enzymes gene expression in the brain and testis in LPS induced rats. Adult male albino rats were administered LPS (5mg/kg BW) to induce acute inflammation. LPS administration induced severe oxidative damage in the brain and testicular tissue which was evident from decreased activities of enzymic antioxidants and increased lipid peroxidation levels. The mRNA expression of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) and androgen receptor corepressor-19kDa (ARR19) in the brain and testis were determined. The mRNA expression of 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD was increased in the brain with significant decrease in the testis at 24h and 48h in LPS treated animals. The results also demonstrated an interesting finding that LPS treatment completely represses ARR19 in the brain, while not in the testis. These findings show ARR19 might play a crucial role in regulation of neuronal and testicular steroidogenesis in inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohanraj Sadasivam
- Department of Biochemistry, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620 024, India
| | | | - Ananth Ayyanar
- Department of Biochemistry, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620 024, India
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Frey BN, Dias RS. Sex hormones and biomarkers of neuroprotection and neurodegeneration: implications for female reproductive events in bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2014; 16:48-57. [PMID: 24206266 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have suggested that women with bipolar disorder are at higher risk for mood episodes during periods of intense hormonal fluctuation (e.g., premenstrual, postpartum, perimenopause). There is converging literature showing that estrogen and progesterone can modulate neurotransmitter systems and intracellular signaling pathways known to be affected by mood stabilizing agents. Here, we critically review clinical aspects of reproductive cycle events in women with bipolar disorder and preclinical studies, with a focus on the functional interactions between sex hormones and biomarkers of neuroprotection and neurodegeneration that are thought to be involved in the neurobiology of bipolar disorder: brain-derived neurotrophic factor, oxidative stress, and inflammation. METHODS A MedLine search using estrogen, progesterone, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, oxidative stress, and inflammation as key words was conducted. RESULTS Data showed that estrogen and progesterone closely interact with brain-derived neurotrophic factor, oxidative stress, and inflammation pathways. CONCLUSIONS This relationship between sex hormones and the pathways of neuroprotection/neurodegeneration may be relevant to the psychopathological aspects of bipolar disorder in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benicio N Frey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Mood Disorders Program and Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Bali A, Jaggi AS. Multifunctional aspects of allopregnanolone in stress and related disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 48:64-78. [PMID: 24044974 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Revised: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one) is a major cholesterol-derived neurosteroid in the central nervous system and is synthesized from progesterone by steroidogenic enzymes, 5α-reductase (the rate-limiting enzyme) and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. The pathophysiological role of allopregnanolone in neuropsychiatric disorders has been highlighted in several investigations. The changes in neuroactive steroid levels are detected in stress and stress-related disorders including anxiety, panic and depression. The changes in allopregnanolone in response to acute stressor tend to restore the homeostasis by dampening the hyper-activated HPA axis. However, long standing stressors leading to development of neuropsychiatric disorders including depression and anxiety are associated with decrease in the allopregnanolone levels. GABAA receptor complex has been considered as the primary target of allopregnanolone and majority of its inhibitory actions are mediated through GABA potentiation or direct activation of GABA currents. The role of progesterone receptors in producing the late actions of allopregnanolone particularly in lordosis facilitation has also been described. Moreover, recent studies have also described the involvement of other multiple targets including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glutamate, dopamine, opioids, oxytocin, and calcium channels. The present review discusses the various aspects of allopregnanolone in stress and stress-related disorders including anxiety, depression and panic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Bali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University Patiala, 147002, India
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Thomas AG, O'Driscoll CM, Bressler J, Kaufmann W, Rojas CJ, Slusher BS. Small molecule glutaminase inhibitors block glutamate release from stimulated microglia. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 443:32-6. [PMID: 24269238 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Glutaminase plays a critical role in the generation of glutamate, a key excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS. Excess glutamate release from activated macrophages and microglia correlates with upregulated glutaminase suggesting a pathogenic role for glutaminase. Both glutaminase siRNA and small molecule inhibitors have been shown to decrease excess glutamate and provide neuroprotection in multiple models of disease, including HIV-associated dementia (HAD), multiple sclerosis and ischemia. Consequently, inhibition of glutaminase could be of interest for treatment of these diseases. Bis-2-(5-phenylacetimido-1,2,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)ethyl sulfide (BPTES) and 6-diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine (DON), two most commonly used glutaminase inhibitors, are either poorly soluble or non-specific. Recently, several new BPTES analogs with improved physicochemical properties were reported. To evaluate these new inhibitors, we established a cell-based microglial activation assay measuring glutamate release. Microglia-mediated glutamate levels were significantly augmented by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands coincident with increased glutaminase activity. While several potent glutaminase inhibitors abrogated the increase in glutamate, a structurally related analog devoid of glutaminase activity was unable to block the increase. In the absence of glutamine, glutamate levels were significantly attenuated. These data suggest that the in vitro microglia assay may be a useful tool in developing glutaminase inhibitors of therapeutic interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit G Thomas
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Cliona M O'Driscoll
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Joseph Bressler
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Walter Kaufmann
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Camilo J Rojas
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Barbara S Slusher
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
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48
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Sohrabji F, Williams M. Stroke neuroprotection: oestrogen and insulin-like growth factor-1 interactions and the role of microglia. J Neuroendocrinol 2013; 25:1173-81. [PMID: 23763366 PMCID: PMC5630268 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [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: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogen has been shown to be neuroprotective for stroke and other neural injury models. Oestrogen promotes a neuroprotective phenotype through myriad actions, including stimulating neurogenesis, promoting neuronal differentiation and survival, suppressing neuroinflammation and maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. At the molecular level, oestrogen directly modulates genes that are beneficial for repair and regeneration via the canonical oestrogen receptor. Increasingly, evidence indicates that oestrogen acts in concert with growth factors to initiate neuroprotection. Oestrogen and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 act cooperatively to influence cell survival, and combined steroid hormone/growth factor interaction has been well documented in the context of neurones and astrocytes. Here, we summarise the evidence that oestrogen-mediated neuroprotection is critically dependent on IGF-1 signalling, and specifically focus on microglia as the source of IGF-1 and the locus of oestrogen-IGF-1 interactions in stroke neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Sohrabji
- Women's Health in Neuroscience Program, Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, TAMHSC College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
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49
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Velíšková J, Desantis KA. Sex and hormonal influences on seizures and epilepsy. Horm Behav 2013; 63:267-77. [PMID: 22504305 PMCID: PMC3424285 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Revised: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is the third most common chronic neurological disorder. Clinical and experimental evidence supports the role of sex and influence of sex hormones on seizures and epilepsy as well as alterations of the endocrine system and levels of sex hormones by epileptiform activity. Conversely, seizures are sensitive to changes in sex hormone levels, which in turn may affect the seizure-induced neuronal damage. The effects of reproductive hormones on neuronal excitability and seizure-induced damage are complex to contradictory and depend on different mechanisms, which have to be accounted for in data interpretation. Both estradiol and progesterone/allopregnanolone may have beneficial effects for patients with epilepsy. Individualized hormonal therapy should be considered as adjunctive treatment in patients with epilepsy to improve seizure control as well as quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Velíšková
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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50
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Cui J, Shen Y, Li R. Estrogen synthesis and signaling pathways during aging: from periphery to brain. Trends Mol Med 2013; 19:197-209. [PMID: 23348042 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2012.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 431] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Estrogens are the primary female sex hormones and play important roles in both reproductive and non-reproductive systems. Estrogens can be synthesized in non-reproductive tissues such as liver, heart, muscle, bone and brain, and tissue-specific estrogen synthesis is consistent with a diversity of estrogen actions. In this article we review tissue and cell-specific estrogen synthesis and estrogen receptor signaling in three parts: (i) synthesis and metabolism, (ii) the distribution of estrogen receptors and signaling, and (iii) estrogen functions and related disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson disease (PD). This comprehensive review provides new insights into estrogens by giving a better understanding of the tissue-specific estrogen effects and their roles in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cui
- Center for Hormone Advanced Science and Education (CHASE), Roskamp Institute, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA
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