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Liang S, Zhao Y, Liu X, Wang Y, Yang H, Zhuo D, Fan F, Guo M, Luo G, Fan Y, Zhang L, Lv X, Chen X, Li SS, Jin X. Prenatal progesterone treatment modulates fetal brain transcriptome and impacts adult offspring behavior in mice. Physiol Behav 2024; 281:114549. [PMID: 38604593 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Maternal exposure to elevated levels of steroid hormones during pregnancy is associated with the development of chronic conditions in offspring that manifest in adulthood. However, the effects of progesterone (P4) administration during early pregnancy on fetal development and subsequent offspring behavior remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of P4 treatment during early pregnancy on the transcript abundance in the fetal brain and assess the behavioral consequences in the offspring during adolescence and adulthood. Using RNA-seq analysis, we examined the impact of P4 treatment on the fetal brain transcriptome in a dosage-dependent manner. Our results revealed differential regulation of genes involved in neurotransmitter transport, synaptic transmission, and transcriptional regulation. Specifically, we observed bidirectional regulation of transcription factors (TFs) by P4 at different doses, highlighting the critical role of these TFs in neurodevelopment. To assess behavioral outcomes, we conducted open field and elevated plus maze tests. Offspring treated with low-dose P4 (LP4) displayed increased exploratory behavior during both adolescence and adulthood. In contrast, the high-dose P4 (HP4) group exhibited impaired exploration and heightened anxiety-like behaviors compared to the control mice. Moreover, in a novel object recognition test, HP4-treated offspring demonstrated impaired object recognition memory during both developmental stages. Additionally, both LP4 and HP4 groups showed reduced social interaction in the three-chamber test. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to P4 exerts a notable influence on the expression of genes associated with neurodevelopment and may induce alterations in behavioral characteristics in progeny, highlighting the need to monitor progesterone levels during pregnancy for long-term impacts on fetal brain development and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuwei Liu
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Jiujiang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, China
| | | | - Donghai Zhuo
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Feifei Fan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Miao Guo
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Gan Luo
- Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yonggang Fan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingzhu Zhang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinxin Lv
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China; Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Tianjin, China
| | - Shan-Shan Li
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Jin
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China; Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Tianjin, China.
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Černý A, Hill M, Vosátková M, Laštůvka Z, Pařízek A. Steroid Metabolome Analysis in Dichorionic Diamniotic Twin Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1591. [PMID: 38338872 PMCID: PMC10855299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones have diverse roles in pregnancy; some help stabilise pregnancy and influence the stability of pregnancy and the onset of labour. Changes and disorders in steroidogenesis may be involved in several pregnancy pathologies. To date, only a few studies have performed a very limited steroid analysis in multiple pregnancies. Our teams investigated multiple pregnancies regarding the biosynthesis, transport, and effects of steroids. We recruited two groups of patients: pregnant women with multiple pregnancies as the study group, and a control singleton pregnancies group. Blood samples were drawn from the participants and analysed. Information about the mother, foetus, delivery, and newborn was extracted from medical records. The data were then analysed. The gestational age of twin pregnancies during delivery ranged from 35 + 3 to 39 + 3 weeks, while it was 38 + 1 to 41 + 1 weeks for the controls. Our findings provide answers to questions regarding the steroidome in multiple pregnancies. Results demonstrate differences in the steroidome between singleton and twin pregnancies. These were based on the presence of two placentae and two foetal adrenal glands, both with separate enzymatic activity. Since every newborn was delivered by caesarean section, analysis was not negatively influenced by changes in the steroid metabolome associated with the spontaneous onset of labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Černý
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.H.); (M.V.)
| | - Michala Vosátková
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.H.); (M.V.)
| | - Zdeněk Laštůvka
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonín Pařízek
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (A.P.)
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Marecki R, Kałuska J, Kolanek A, Hakało D, Waszkiewicz N. Zuranolone - synthetic neurosteroid in treatment of mental disorders: narrative review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1298359. [PMID: 38116383 PMCID: PMC10729607 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1298359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
With each passing year, the number of people suffering from mental disorders grows at a disturbing speed. Neuroactive steroids are a new promising group of drugs with the potential for use in many diseases like postpartum depression, postnatal psychosis, major depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and Parkinson's tremor, due to their ability to modulate the activity of GABAA receptor. Neurosteroids are progesterone metabolites that are synthesized from cholesterol or steroid hormones in various brain regions. They regulate neuronal development, regeneration, and neurotransmission. They are implicated in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, and impulsive aggression. Neurosteroids have been studied for their potential to prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and HIV-associated dementia. They can promote neurogenesis, neuronal survival, myelination, and memory function. They can also affect the growth and sensitivity of hormone-dependent brain tumors such as gliomas. Zuranolone, a newly registered neurosteroid drug has shown huge flexibility in both clinical and ambulatory treatment thanks to its pharmacokinetic traits, especially the possibility for oral administration, unlike its predecessor Brexanolone. Zuranolone is a synthetic positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor that can be taken orally. The review aims to summarize the current knowledge on zuranolone as a novel neurosteroid drug for various mental disorders, especially for postpartum mental disorders for which this drug was meant originally. It covers studies indexed in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases published since 2017. Keywords used in the search, as well as inclusion and exclusion criteria, are given in the aims and methodology section. The review explains the evidence for the role of neurosteroids, especially allopregnanolone, in the pathophysiology and treatment of postpartum depression. It discusses the mechanisms of neurosteroid action, the changes in neurosteroid levels during pregnancy and postpartum, and the clinical trials of brexanolone and zuranolone, two synthetic analogs of allopregnanolone, for postpartum depression. It provides an overview of the biosynthesis and metabolism of neurosteroids in the central and peripheral nervous system. Furthermore, it explains the different sources and pathways of neurosteroid production and the factors that influence their synthesis and regulation, such as stress, hormones, drugs, and genetic variations. The review also explores the potential relevance of neurosteroids for other psychiatric disorders, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Finally, it highlights the associations between neurosteroid levels and symptom severity and the effects of neurosteroid modulation on mood, cognition, and neuroplasticity.
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COVID-19, Vaccination, and Female Fertility in the Czech Republic. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810909. [PMID: 36142820 PMCID: PMC9501189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The fast-track process to approve vaccines against COVID-19 has raised questions about their safety, especially in relation to fertility. Over the last 2 years, studies have appeared monitoring female fertility, especially from assisted reproduction centers or in animal experiments. However, studies monitoring healthy populations are still limited. The aim of our study was to monitor the relevant parameters of female fertility (sex and other steroids, LH, FSH, SHBG, Antimüllerian hormone and antral follicle count) before and then 2-4 months after the third dose of vaccination against COVID-19 in a group of 25 healthy fertile woman. In addition, anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibodies were determined. We did not observe significant changes in the measured parameters before and after the third dose of vaccination. By comparing levels of the analytes with antibodies indicating a prior COVID-19 infection, we found that women who had experienced the disease had statistically lower levels of estrone, estradiol, SHBG and 5α-dihydroprogesterone, and conversely, higher levels of androgen active dehydroepiandrosterone and dihydrotestosterone. Our results confirm that vaccination does not affect female fertility, and that what fertile women should be worried about is not vaccination, but rather COVID-19 infection itself.
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Cui C, Wang X, Zhang S, Wu H, Li M, Dong L, Yan C, Li D. Progesterone Reduces ATP-Induced Pyroptosis of SH-SY5Y Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4827444. [PMID: 35993057 PMCID: PMC9391192 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4827444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aim To investigate the mechanism of progesterone inhibiting the scorch death of SH-SY5Y cells induced by exogenous adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Methods SH-SY5Y cells with good logarithmic growth were used in the experiment. The cells were randomly divided into 5 groups: normal control group, DMSO group, BBG group, ATP group, and ATP+progesterone group. The cell survival rate of each group was measured by CCK-8 method. The expressions of P2X7 receptor, caspase-1, caspase-11, and IL-1β were detected by western blotting. Results (1) After SH-SY5Y cells were treated with ATP at different concentrations (1, 3, 6, and 9 mmol/L) for 2 hours, the cell survival rate decreased in a concentration-dependent manner compared with the normal blank group. The results showed that the optimal lethal concentration of ATP was 6 mmol/L. SH-SY5Y cells were preincubated with progesterone at different concentrations (3, 10, 30, and 100 nmol/L) for 30 minutes and then incubated with 6 mmol/L ATP. The cell survival rate of this group was significantly improved (P < 0.01). The optimal concentration of progesterone to improve cell survival and inhibit cell death was 30 nmol/L. (2) Compared to the control group, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in P2X7 receptor, caspase-1, caspase-11, and IL-1β with the DMSO group (0.001% DMSO, 24 h) and BBG group (bbg1 mmol/L, 24 h). (3) In the ATP group, the expression of P2X7 receptor and caspase-1 (the key protein of classical cell death pathway) increased significantly (P < 0.01), which was related to inflammatory factor IL-1β with consistent performance (P < 0.01). There was no significant change in caspase-11 (the key protein of nonclassical focal death pathway) (P > 0.05). (4) The expression of P2X7 receptor, caspase-1, and inflammatory factor IL-1β in the progesterone+ATP group was significantly downregulated (P < 0.01). There was no significant change in caspase-11 (P > 0.05). Conclusion Certain dose of progesterone can inhibit the focal death of SH-SY5Y cells induced by extracellular high concentration ATP. It can reduce the expression of P2X7 receptor, inhibit the conduction pathway of cell death, reduce the release of inflammatory factor IL-1β, and improve cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Cui
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Xiaona Wang
- Pingdingshan Industrial Vocational and Technical College, Pingdingshan, 467000 Henan, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Meijie Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Luoxiao Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Chongshuai Yan
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
| | - Dongliang Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, China
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Sze Y, Brunton PJ. Neurosteroids and early-life programming: An updated perspective. CURRENT OPINION IN ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC RESEARCH 2022; 25:100367. [PMID: 36561280 PMCID: PMC7613978 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2022.100367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress can lead to detrimental offspring outcomes, including an increased risk for mood disorders and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation. Neurosteroids bind to ligand-gated neurotransmitter receptors, rapidly modulating neuronal excitability and promoting termination of stress responses. Reduced neurosteroidogenesis underlies some of the aberrant neuroendocrine and behavioural phenotypes observed in adult prenatally stressed rodents. During development, disruptions in neurosteroid generation and action also lead to long-term programming effects on the off-spring's brain and behaviour. Here, we review recent advances in the field, focusing on the interaction between neurosteroids and early-life stress outcomes in adulthood and in the perinatal period. We also discuss the direction of future research, with emphasis on quantification methods, sex differences, and neurosteroids as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sze
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, Scotland, UK
| | - Paula J Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, Scotland, UK
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7
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Kolatorova L, Vitku J, Suchopar J, Hill M, Parizek A. Progesterone: A Steroid with Wide Range of Effects in Physiology as Well as Human Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7989. [PMID: 35887338 PMCID: PMC9322133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone is a steroid hormone traditionally linked with female fertility and pregnancy. In current reproductive medicine, progesterone and its analogues play crucial roles. While the discovery of its effects has a long history, over recent decades, various novel actions of this interesting steroid have been documented, of which its neuro- and immunoprotective activities are the most widely discussed. Discoveries of the novel biological activities of progesterone have also driven research and development in the field of progesterone analogues used in human medicine. Progestogen treatment has traditionally and predominately been used in maintaining pregnancy, the prevention of preterm labor, various gynecological pathologies, and in lowering the negative effects of menopause. However, there are also various other medical fields where progesterone and its analogues could find application in the future. The aim of this work is to show the mechanisms of action of progesterone and its metabolites, the physiological and pharmacological actions of progesterone and its synthetic analogues in human medicine, as well as the impacts of its production and use on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Kolatorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Josef Suchopar
- DrugAgency, a.s., Klokotska 833/1a, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Antonin Parizek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital, Apolinarska 18, 128 51 Prague, Czech Republic;
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8
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Furr MO. Neurologic Disorders of the Foal. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2022; 38:283-297. [PMID: 35811202 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2022.05.005] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurologic disease of foals is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for veterinarians. Disease conditions such as neonatal encephalopathy are seen as well as developmental and congenital defects, bacterial infections, and trauma. Neonatal encephalopathy can be considered a "syndrome" with a variety of causes resulting in a similar clinical presentation. These causes can be categorized as maladaptation, hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy, and metabolic abnormalities, all leading to signs of cerebral and brainstem disease. Spinal cord signs may occasionally be seen, but these signs are usually overshadowed by cerebral disease. Treatment in most cases involves supportive care and outcome is favorable in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O Furr
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Room 264 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, Ok, USA.
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9
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Shaw JC, Dyson RM, Palliser HK, Sixtus RP, Barnes H, Pavy CL, Crombie GK, Berry MJ, Hirst JJ. Examining Neurosteroid-Analogue Therapy in the Preterm Neonate For Promoting Hippocampal Neurodevelopment. Front Physiol 2022; 13:871265. [PMID: 35514343 PMCID: PMC9062084 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.871265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Preterm birth can lead to brain injury and currently there are no targeted therapies to promote postnatal brain development and protect these vulnerable neonates. We have previously shown that the neurosteroid-analogue ganaxolone promotes white matter development and improves behavioural outcomes in male juvenile guinea pigs born preterm. Adverse side effects in this previous study necessitated this current follow-up dosing study, where a focus was placed upon physical wellbeing during the treatment administration and markers of neurodevelopment at the completion of the treatment period. Methods: Time-mated guinea pigs delivered preterm (d62) by induction of labour or spontaneously at term (d69). Preterm pups were randomized to receive no treatment (Prem-CON) or ganaxolone at one of three doses [0.5 mg/kg ganaxolone (low dose; LOW-GNX), 1.0 mg/kg ganaxolone (mid dose; MID-GNX), or 2.5 mg/kg ganaxolone (high dose; HIGH-GNX) in vehicle (45% β-cyclodextrin)] daily until term equivalence age. Physical parameters including weight gain, ponderal index, supplemental feeding, and wellbeing (a score based on respiration, activity, and posture) were recorded throughout the preterm period. At term equivalence, brain tissue was collected, and analysis of hippocampal neurodevelopment was undertaken by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. Results: Low and mid dose ganaxolone had some impacts on early weight gain, supplemental feeding, and wellbeing, whereas high dose ganaxolone significantly affected all physical parameters for multiple days during the postnatal period when compared to the preterm control neonates. Deficits in the preterm hippocampus were identified using neurodevelopmental markers including mRNA expression of oligodendrocyte lineage cells (CSPG4, MBP), neuronal growth (INA, VEGFA), and the GABAergic/glutamatergic system (SLC32A1, SLC1A2, GRIN1, GRIN2C, DLG4). These deficits were not affected by ganaxolone at the doses used at the equivalent of normal term. Conclusion: This is the first study to investigate the effects of a range of doses of ganaxolone to improve preterm brain development. We found that of the three doses, only the highest dose of ganaxolone (2.5 mg/kg) impaired key indicators of physical health and wellbeing over extended periods of time. Whilst it may be too early to see improvements in markers of neurodevelopment, further long-term study utilising the lower doses are warranted to assess functional outcomes at ages when preterm birth associated behavioural disorders are observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Shaw
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca M Dyson
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.,Centre for Translational Physiology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Hannah K Palliser
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan P Sixtus
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.,Centre for Translational Physiology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Heather Barnes
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.,Centre for Translational Physiology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Carlton L Pavy
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Gabrielle K Crombie
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Mary J Berry
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.,Centre for Translational Physiology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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10
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Adaptations in the Hippocampus during the Fetal to Neonatal Transition in Guinea Pigs. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed3020008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(Background) The transition from in utero to ex utero life is associated with rapid changes in the brain that are both protective and required for newborn functional activities, allowing adaption to the changing environment. The current study aimed to reveal new insights into adaptations required for normal ongoing brain development and function after birth. (Methods) Time-mated dams were randomly allocated to fetal collection at gestational age 68 or spontaneous term delivery followed by neonatal collection within 24 h of birth. Immunohistochemistry was performed to examine mature myelin formation and neuronal nuclei coverage. RT-PCR was used to quantify the mRNA expression of key markers of the oligodendrocyte lineage, neuronal development, and GABAergic/glutamatergic pathway maturation. (Results) Mature myelin was reduced in the subcortical white matter of the neonate, whilst neuronal nuclei coverage was increased in both the hippocampus and the overlying cortical region. Increased mRNA expression in neonates was observed for oligodendrocyte and neuronal markers. There were also widespread mRNA changes across the inhibitory GABAergic and excitatory glutamatergic pathways in neonates. (Conclusions) This study has identified important adaptations in the expression of key neurodevelopmental structures, including oligodendrocytes and neurons, that may be essential for appropriate transition in neurodevelopment to the postnatal period.
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11
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Reiss JD, Peterson LS, Nesamoney SN, Chang AL, Pasca AM, Marić I, Shaw GM, Gaudilliere B, Wong RJ, Sylvester KG, Bonifacio SL, Aghaeepour N, Gibbs RS, Stevenson DK. Perinatal infection, inflammation, preterm birth, and brain injury: A review with proposals for future investigations. Exp Neurol 2022; 351:113988. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.113988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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12
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Ondřejíková L, Pařízek A, Šimják P, Vejražková D, Velíková M, Anderlová K, Vosátková M, Krejčí H, Koucký M, Kancheva R, Dušková M, Vaňková M, Bulant J, Hill M. Altered Steroidome in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Focus on Neuroactive and Immunomodulatory Steroids from the 24th Week of Pregnancy to Labor. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1746. [PMID: 34944390 PMCID: PMC8698588 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a complication in pregnancy, but studies focused on the steroidome in patients with GDM are not available in the public domain. This article evaluates the steroidome in GDM+ and GDM- women and its changes from 24 weeks (± of gestation) to labor. The study included GDM+ (n = 44) and GDM- women (n = 33), in weeks 24-28, 30-36 of gestation and at labor and mixed umbilical blood after delivery. Steroidomic data (101 steroids quantified by GC-MS/MS) support the concept that the increasing diabetogenic effects with the approaching term are associated with mounting progesterone levels. The GDM+ group showed lower levels of testosterone (due to reduced AKR1C3 activity), estradiol (due to a shift from the HSD17B1 towards HSD17B2 activity), 7-oxygenated androgens (competing with cortisone for HSD11B1 and shifting the balance from diabetogenic cortisol towards the inactive cortisone), reduced activities of SRD5As, and CYP17A1 in the hydroxylase but higher CYP17A1 activity in the lyase step. With the approaching term, the authors found rising activities of CYP3A7, AKR1C1, CYP17A1 in its hydroxylase step, but a decline in its lyase step, rising conjugation of neuroinhibitory and pregnancy-stabilizing steroids and weakening AKR1D1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leona Ondřejíková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Antonín Pařízek
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital in Prague, Charles University in Prague, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.P.); (P.Š.); (K.A.); (H.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Patrik Šimják
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital in Prague, Charles University in Prague, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.P.); (P.Š.); (K.A.); (H.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Daniela Vejražková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Marta Velíková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Kateřina Anderlová
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital in Prague, Charles University in Prague, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.P.); (P.Š.); (K.A.); (H.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Michala Vosátková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Hana Krejčí
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital in Prague, Charles University in Prague, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.P.); (P.Š.); (K.A.); (H.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Michal Koucký
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital in Prague, Charles University in Prague, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.P.); (P.Š.); (K.A.); (H.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Radmila Kancheva
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Michaela Dušková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Markéta Vaňková
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Josef Bulant
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (L.O.); (D.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.); (R.K.); (M.D.); (M.V.); (J.B.)
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Simons NE, van Limburg Stirum EVJ, van Wassenaer-Leemhuis AG, Finken MJJ, Aarnoudse-Moens CSH, Oosterlaan J, van Baar A, Roseboom TJ, Lim AC, van Wely M, de Boer MA, Painter RC, Pajkrt E, Oudijk MA, van T Hooft J. Long-term follow-up of children exposed in-utero to progesterone treatment for prevention of preterm birth: study protocol of the AMPHIA follow-up. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e053066. [PMID: 34548367 PMCID: PMC8458362 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preterm birth is one of the main problems in obstetrics, and the most important cause of neonatal mortality, morbidity and neurodevelopmental impairment. Multiple gestation is an important risk factor for preterm birth, with up to 50% delivering before 37 weeks. Progesterone has a role in maintaining pregnancy and is frequently prescribed to prevent (recurrent) preterm birth and improve pregnancy outcomes in high-risk patients. However, little is known about its long-term effects in multiple gestations. The objective of this follow-up study is to assess long-term benefits and harms of prenatal exposure to progesterone treatment in multiple gestations on child development. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a follow-up study of a multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial (AMPHIA trial, ISRCTN40512715). Between 2006 and 2009 women with a multiple gestation were randomised at 16-20 weeks of gestation to weekly injections 250 mg 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate or placebo, until 36 weeks of gestation or delivery. The current long-term follow-up will assess all children (n=1355) born to mothers who participated in the AMPHIA trial, at 11-14 years of age, with internationally validated questionnaires, completed by themselves, their parents and their teachers. MAIN OUTCOMES ARE CHILD COGNITION AND BEHAVIOUR Additional outcomes are death (perinatal and up to age 14), gender identity, educational performance and health-related problems. We will use intention-to-treat analyses comparing experimental and placebo group. To adjust for the correlation between twins, general linear mixed-effects models will be used. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Amsterdam UMC MEC provided a waiver for the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (W20_234#20.268). Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and summaries shared with stakeholders, patients and participants. This protocol is published before analysis of the results. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NL8933.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor E Simons
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emilie V J van Limburg Stirum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aleid G van Wassenaer-Leemhuis
- Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn J J Finken
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelieke S H Aarnoudse-Moens
- Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Department of Paediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anneloes van Baar
- Child and Adolescent Studies, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa J Roseboom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne C Lim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht UMC, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjon A de Boer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rebecca C Painter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Pajkrt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn A Oudijk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke van T Hooft
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Marinello WP, Patisaul HB. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and placental function: Impact on fetal brain development. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 92:347-400. [PMID: 34452690 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a critical time of vulnerability for the development of the fetal brain. Exposure to environmental pollutants at any point in pregnancy can negatively impact many aspects of fetal development, especially the organization and differentiation of the brain. The placenta performs a variety of functions that can help protect the fetus and sustain brain development. However, disruption of any of these functions can have negative impacts on both the pregnancy outcome and fetal neurodevelopment. This review presents current understanding of how environmental exposures, specifically to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), interfere with placental function and, in turn, neurodevelopment. Some of the key differences in placental development between animal models are presented, as well as how placental functions such as serving as a xenobiotic barrier and exchange organ, immune interface, regulator of growth and fetal oxygenation, and a neuroendocrine organ, could be vulnerable to environmental exposure. This review illustrates the importance of the placenta as a modulator of fetal brain development and suggests critical unexplored areas and possible vulnerabilities to environmental exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.
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15
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Inocencio IM, Tran NT, Khor SJ, Wiersma M, Nakamura S, Walker DW, Wong FY. The cerebral haemodynamic response to somatosensory stimulation in preterm newborn lambs is reduced with dopamine or dobutamine infusion. Exp Neurol 2021; 341:113687. [PMID: 33713656 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the adult brain, increases in neural activity lead to increases in local blood flow. However, in the preterm neonate, studies of cerebral functional haemodynamics have yielded inconsistent results, including negative responses suggesting decreased perfusion and localised tissue hypoxia, probably due to immature neurovascular coupling. Furthermore, the impact of vasoactive medications, such as dopamine and dobutamine used as inotropic therapies in preterm neonates, on cerebrovascular responses to somatosensory input is unknown. We aimed to characterise the cerebral haemodynamic functional response after somatosensory stimulation in the preterm newborn brain, with and without dopamine or dobutamine treatment. METHODS We studied the cerebral haemodynamic functional response in 13 anaesthetised preterm lambs, using near infrared spectroscopy to measure changes in cerebral oxy- and deoxyhaemoglobin (ΔoxyHb, ΔdeoxyHb) following left median nerve stimulation using stimulus trains of 1.8, 4.8 and 7.8 s. The 4.8 and 7.8 s stimulations were repeated during dopamine or dobutamine infusion. RESULTS Stimulation always produced a somatosensory evoked response. Majority of preterm lambs demonstrated positive functional responses (i.e. increased ΔoxyHb) in the contralateral cortex following stimulus trains of all durations. Dopamine increased baseline oxyHb and total Hb, whereas dobutamine increased baseline deoxyHb. Both dopamine and dobutamine reduced the evoked ΔoxyHb responses to 4.8 and 7.8 s stimulations. CONCLUSIONS Somatosensory stimulation increases cerebral oxygenation in the preterm brain, consistent with increased cerebral blood flow due to neurovascular coupling. Notably, our results show that dopamine/dobutamine reduces oxygen delivery relative to consumption in the preterm brain during somatosensory stimulations, suggesting there may be a risk of intermittent localised tissue hypoxia which has clear implications for clinical practice and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishmael M Inocencio
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nhi T Tran
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Song J Khor
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Manon Wiersma
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shinji Nakamura
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - David W Walker
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Flora Y Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Monash Newborn, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
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Shaw JC, Crombie GK, Palliser HK, Hirst JJ. Impaired Oligodendrocyte Development Following Preterm Birth: Promoting GABAergic Action to Improve Outcomes. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:618052. [PMID: 33634057 PMCID: PMC7901941 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.618052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth is associated with poor long-term neurodevelopmental and behavioral outcomes, even in the absence of obvious brain injury at the time of birth. In particular, behavioral disorders characterized by inattention, social difficulties and anxiety are common among children and adolescents who were born moderately to late preterm (32-37 weeks' gestation). Diffuse deficits in white matter microstructure are thought to play a role in these poor outcomes with evidence suggesting that a failure of oligodendrocytes to mature and myelinate axons is responsible. However, there remains a major knowledge gap over the mechanisms by which preterm birth interrupts normal oligodendrocyte development. In utero neurodevelopment occurs in an inhibitory-dominant environment due to the action of placentally derived neurosteroids on the GABAA receptor, thus promoting GABAergic inhibitory activity and maintaining the fetal behavioral state. Following preterm birth, and the subsequent premature exposure to the ex utero environment, this action of neurosteroids on GABAA receptors is greatly reduced. Coinciding with a reduction in GABAergic inhibition, the preterm neonatal brain is also exposed to ex utero environmental insults such as periods of hypoxia and excessive glucocorticoid concentrations. Together, these insults may increase levels of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate in the developing brain and result in a shift in the balance of inhibitory: excitatory activity toward excitatory. This review will outline the normal development of oligodendrocytes, how it is disrupted under excitation-dominated conditions and highlight how shifting the balance back toward an inhibitory-dominated environment may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Shaw
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Gabrielle K Crombie
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah K Palliser
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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[Brain death criterion and organ donation: current neuroscientific perspective]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2020; 63:1519-1530. [PMID: 33180159 PMCID: PMC7686223 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-020-03245-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In der akademischen und öffentlichen Debatte wird der irreversible Hirnfunktionsausfall als Kriterium des Todes (Hirntodkriterium) immer wieder hinterfragt. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden 6 prototypische Thesen gegen das Hirntodkriterium diskutiert: 1) Nichtsuperiorität des Gehirns gegenüber anderen Organen, 2) Unsicherheit der Hirntoddiagnostik, 3) erhaltene Schmerzempfindung Hirntoter, 4) (spontane) sexuelle Reifung und erhaltene Reproduktionsfunktion Hirntoter, 5) Symmetrie von Hirntod und Embryonalphase, 6) Gleichsetzung des intensivmedizinisch erhaltenen Restorganismus Hirntoter mit dem lebenden Menschen. Keine dieser Thesen hält einer kritischen Analyse stand. In Deutschland wird das Ganzhirntodkriterium angewendet. Der Hirntod geht mit dem völligen Ausfall jeglicher Empfindung, Bewusstheit, Mimik, Augen‑, Zungen- und Schlundmotorik, Willkürmotorik und Sexualfunktion einher (funktionelle „Enthauptung“). Medizinisch-technisch können andere Organe bzw. ihre Primitivsteuerung ersetzt werden, nicht aber das Gehirn. Das Gehirn, nicht der Körper, ist bestimmend für das menschliche Individuum. Die Gleichsetzung des künstlich erhaltenen Restorganismus, naturphilosophisch als lebendiges System interpretierbar, mit dem Organismus desselben lebenden Menschen wird durch die beliebige Reduzierbarkeit der Anzahl beteiligter Organe ad absurdum geführt. Der irreversible Hirnfunktionsausfall führt unausweichlich zum Herzstillstand, unbehandelt innerhalb von Minuten, unter Intensivtherapie i. d. R. innerhalb von Tagen. Auch beim Embryo/Fötus führt die Fehlanlage des gesamten Gehirns zum (vorgeburtlichen) Tod. Die in Deutschland gesetzliche Richtlinie zur Hirntodfeststellung hat eine im internationalen Vergleich hohe Diagnosesicherheit, es sind damit keine bestätigten Fehldiagnosen aufgetreten.
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Sundström-Poromaa I, Comasco E, Sumner R, Luders E. Progesterone - Friend or foe? Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 59:100856. [PMID: 32730861 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol is the "prototypic" sex hormone of women. Yet, women have another sex hormone, which is often disregarded: Progesterone. The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive review on progesterone, and its metabolite allopregnanolone, emphasizing three key areas: biological properties, main functions, and effects on mood in women. Recent years of intensive research on progesterone and allopregnanolone have paved the way for new treatment of postpartum depression. However, treatment for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder as well as contraception that women can use without risking mental health problems are still needed. As far as progesterone is concerned, we might be dealing with a two-edged sword: while its metabolite allopregnanolone has been proven useful for treatment of PPD, it may trigger negative symptoms in women with PMS and PMDD. Overall, our current knowledge on the beneficial and harmful effects of progesterone is limited and further research is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Eileen Luders
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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19
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Link D, Many A, Ben Sira L, Tarrasch R, Bak S, Kidron D, Gordon Z, Yagel S, Harel S, Ben Bashat D. Placental vascular tree characterization based on ex-vivo MRI with a potential application for placental insufficiency assessment. Placenta 2020; 101:252-260. [PMID: 32933767 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding regarding the whole placental vascular network structure is limited. Our aim was to quantitatively characterize the human placental vascular tree ex-vivo using high-resolution MRI. METHODS 34 normal placentas were rinsed and injected with a solution of gelatin and contrast agent through the umbilical vessels. A sample of six placentas taken from pregnancies with intrauterine-growth-restriction (IUGR) was used to demonstrate the potential application to cases with placental insufficiency. Structural ex-vivo MR scans of the placenta were performed using high resolution T1 weighted images. A semi-automatic method was developed to segment and characterize the placental vascular architecture: placental volume and cord insertion location; number of bifurcations, generations and vessels diameters. RESULTS Different vascular patterns were found in placentas with central versus marginal cord-insertion. Based on the placental volume and number of bifurcations we were able to predict birth weight. Furthermore, preliminary results on IUGR sample demonstrated the potential of this method to differentiate between small newborns with suspected IUGR from small normal newborns who reached their full growth potential. Results obtained using the automatic method were validated against manual values demonstrating no significant differences or bias. Histopathology supported the imaging findings. DISCUSSION This is the first study to quantitatively characterize the human placental vascular architecture using high resolution ex-vivo MRI. Different patterns of vascular architecture may be related to different functioning of the placenta and affect fetal development. This method is simple, relatively fast, provides detailed information of the placental vascular architecture, and may have important clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphna Link
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Many
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Ben Sira
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Division of Pediatric Radiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ricardo Tarrasch
- Jaime and Joan Constantiner School of Education, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Stella Bak
- Division of Pathology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Debora Kidron
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Department of Pathology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel
| | - Zoya Gordon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Department of Medical Engineering Afeka, Tel Aviv Academic College of Engineering, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Simcha Yagel
- Obstretrics and Gynecology Division, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shaul Harel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Pediatric Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Ben Bashat
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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20
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Placental vascular tree characterization based on ex-vivo MRI with a potential application for placental insufficiency assessment. Placenta 2020; 96:34-43. [PMID: 32560856 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding regarding the whole placental vascular network structure is limited. Our aim was to quantitatively characterize the human placental vascular tree ex-vivo using high-resolution MRI. METHODS 34 normal placentas were rinsed and injected with a solution of gelatin and contrast agent through the umbilical vessels. A sample of six placentas taken from pregnancies with intrauterine-growth-restriction (IUGR) was used to demonstrate the potential application to cases with placental insufficiency. Structural ex-vivo MR scans of the placenta were performed using high resolution T1 weighted images. A semi-automatic method was developed to segment and characterize the placental vascular architecture: placental volume and cord insertion location, number of bifurcations, generations and vessels diameters. RESULTS Different vascular patterns were found in placentas with central versus marginal cord-insertion. Based on the placental volume and number of bifurcations we were able to predict birth weight. Furthermore, preliminary results on IUGR sample demonstrated the potential of this method to differentiate between small newborns with suspected IUGR from small normal newborns who reached their full growth potential. Results obtained using the automatic method were validated against manual values demonstrating no significant differences or bias. Histopathology supported the imaging findings. DISCUSSION This is the first study to quantitatively characterize the human placental vascular architecture using high resolution ex-vivo MRI. Different patterns of vascular architecture may be related to different functioning of the placenta and affect fetal development. This method is simple, relatively fast, provides detailed information of the placental vascular architecture, and may have important clinical applications.
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21
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Robitaille J, Langlois VS. Consequences of steroid-5α-reductase deficiency and inhibition in vertebrates. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 290:113400. [PMID: 31981690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [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: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In 1974, a lack of 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), the most potent androgen across species except for fish, was shown to be the origin of a type of pseudohermaphrodism in which boys have female-like external genitalia. This human intersex condition is linked to a mutation in the steroid-5α-reductase type 2 (SRD5α2) gene, which usually produces an important enzyme capable of reducing the Δ4-ene of steroid C-19 and C-21 into a 5α-stereoisomer. Seeing the potential of SRD5α2 as a target for androgen synthesis, pharmaceutical companies developed 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs), such as finasteride (FIN) and dutasteride (DUT) to target SRD5α2 in benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic alopecia. In addition to human treatment, the development of 5ARIs also enabled further research of SRD5α functions. Therefore, this review details the morphological, physiological, and molecular effects of the lack of SRD5α activity induced by both SRD5α mutations and inhibitor exposures across species. More specifically, data highlights 1) the role of 5α-DHT in the development of male secondary sexual organs in vertebrates and sex determination in non-mammalian vertebrates, 2) the role of SRD5α1 in the synthesis of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (ALLO) and 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol (3α-diol), which are involved in anxiety and sexual behavior, respectively, and 3) the role of SRD5α3 in N-glycosylation. This review also features the lesser known functions of SRD5αs in steroid degradation in the uterus during pregnancy and glucocorticoid clearance in the liver. Additionally, the review describes the regulation of SRD5αs by the receptors of androgens, progesterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones, as well as their differential DNA methylation. Factors known to be involved in their differential methylation are age, inflammation, and mental stimulation. Overall, this review helps shed light on the various essential functions of SRD5αs across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Robitaille
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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Bartolomé I, Llidó A, Darbra S, Pallarès M. Early postnatal allopregnanolone levels alteration and adult behavioral disruption in rats: Implication for drug abuse. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 12:100208. [PMID: 32435661 PMCID: PMC7231993 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have highlighted the role that early postnatal levels of allopregnanolone play in the development of the CNS and adult behavior. Changes in allopregnanolone levels related to stress have been observed during early postnatal periods, and perinatal stress has been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. The alteration of early postnatal allopregnanolone levels in the first weeks of life has been proven to affect adult behaviors, such as anxiety-related behaviors and the processing of sensory inputs. This review focuses on the first studies about the possible relationship between the early postnatal allopregnanolone levels and the vulnerability to abuse of drugs such as alcohol in adulthood, given that (1) changes in neonatal allopregnanolone levels affect novelty exploration and novelty seeking has been linked to vulnerability to drug abuse; (2) early postnatal administration of progesterone, the main allopregnanolone precursor, affects the maturation of dopaminergic meso-striatal systems, which have been related to novelty seeking and drug abuse; and (3) alcohol consumption increases plasma and brain allopregnanolone levels in animals and humans. Manipulating neonatal allopregnanolone by administering finasteride, an inhibitor of the 5α-reductase enzyme that participates in allopregnanolone synthesis, increases alcohol consumption and decreases the locomotor stimulant effects of low alcohol doses. At a molecular level, finasteride decreases dopamine and serotonin in ventral striatum and dopamine release in nucleus accumbens. Preliminary results suggest that serotonin 5HT3 receptors could also be affected. Although an in-depth study is necessary, evidence suggests that there is a relation between early postnatal allopregnanolone and vulnerability to drug use/abuse. Early postnatal AlloP levels alteration affects brain maturation and adult behavior. Early stress interacts to AlloP influencing neuropsychiatric disorders vulnerability. Fluctuations in neonatal AlloP levels play a role in alcohol abuse vulnerability. Neonatal finasteride induces novelty-seeking profile and increases ethanol intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Bartolomé
- Institut de Neurociències, Departament de Psicobiologia I Metodologia en Ciències de La Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Llidó
- Institut de Neurociències, Departament de Psicobiologia I Metodologia en Ciències de La Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Darbra
- Institut de Neurociències, Departament de Psicobiologia I Metodologia en Ciències de La Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Pallarès
- Institut de Neurociències, Departament de Psicobiologia I Metodologia en Ciències de La Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Handelman SK, Romero R, Tarca AL, Pacora P, Ingram B, Maymon E, Chaiworapongsa T, Hassan SS, Erez O. The plasma metabolome of women in early pregnancy differs from that of non-pregnant women. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224682. [PMID: 31726468 PMCID: PMC6855901 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In comparison to the non-pregnant state, the first trimester of pregnancy is characterized by systemic adaptation of the mother. The extent to which these adaptive processes are reflected in the maternal blood metabolome is not well characterized. OBJECTIVE To determine the differences between the plasma metabolome of non-pregnant and pregnant women before 16 weeks gestation. STUDY DESIGN This study included plasma samples from 21 non-pregnant women and 50 women with a normal pregnancy (8-16 weeks of gestation). Combined measurements by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry and by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry generated molecular abundance measurements for each sample. Molecular species detected in at least 10 samples were included in the analysis. Differential abundance was inferred based on false discovery adjusted p-values (FDR) from Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon U tests <0.1 and a minimum median abundance ratio (fold change) of 1.5. Alternatively, metabolic data were quantile normalized to remove sample-to-sample differences in the overall metabolite abundance (adjusted analysis). RESULTS Overall, 637 small molecules met the inclusion criteria and were tested for association with pregnancy; 44% (281/637) of small molecules had significantly different abundance, of which 81% (229/281) were less abundant in pregnant than in non-pregnant women. Eight percent (14/169) of the metabolites that remained significant in the adjusted analysis also changed as a function of gestational age. A pathway analysis revealed enrichment in steroid metabolites related to sex hormones, caffeine metabolites, lysolipids, dipeptides, and polypeptide bradykinin derivatives (all, FDR < 0.1). CONCLUSIONS This high-throughput mass spectrometry study identified: 1) differences between pregnant vs. non-pregnant women in the abundance of 44% of the profiled plasma metabolites, including known and novel molecules and pathways; and 2) specific metabolites that changed with gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel K. Handelman
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Percy Pacora
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Brian Ingram
- Metabolon Inc., Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Eli Maymon
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Offer Erez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Maternity Department "D," Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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24
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Bijnens EM, Derom C, Weyers S, Janssen BG, Thiery E, Nawrot TS. Placental mitochondrial DNA content is associated with childhood intelligence. J Transl Med 2019; 17:361. [PMID: 31703745 PMCID: PMC6839247 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-2105-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developmental processes in the placenta and the fetal brain are shaped by the similar biological signals. Evidence accumulates that adaptive responses of the placenta may influence central nervous system development. We hypothesize that placental mtDNA content at birth is associated with intelligence in childhood. In addition, we investigate if intra-pair differences in mtDNA content are associated with intra-pair differences in intelligence. METHODS Relative mtDNA content was measured using qPCR in placental tissue of 375 children of the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey. Intelligence was assessed with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) between 8 and 15 years old. We accounted for sex, gestational age, birth weight, birth year, zygosity and chorionicity, cord insertion, age at measurement, indicators of socioeconomic status, smoking during pregnancy, and urban environment. RESULTS In multivariable adjusted mixed modelling analysis, each doubling in placental mtDNA content was associated with 2.0 points (95% CI 0.02 to 3.9; p = 0.05) higher total and 2.3 points (95% CI 0.2 to 4.3; p = 0.03) higher performance IQ in childhood. We observed no association between mtDNA content and verbal intelligence. Intra-pair differences in mtDNA content and IQ were significantly (p = 0.01) correlated in monozygotic-monochorionic twin pairs, showing that the twin with the highest mtDNA content was 1.9 times more likely (p = 0.05) to have the highest IQ. This was not observed in dichorionic twin pairs. CONCLUSIONS We provide the first evidence that placental mtDNA content is associated with childhood intelligence. This emphasizes the importance of placental mitochondrial function during in utero life on fetal brain development with long-lasting consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmée M Bijnens
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan Building D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Catherine Derom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Centre of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven Weyers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bram G Janssen
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan Building D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Evert Thiery
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan Building D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Leuven University, Kapucijnenvoer 35, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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25
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Analysis of steroids in urine by gas chromatography-capillary photoionization-tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2019; 1598:175-182. [PMID: 31003716 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2019.03.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
A new heated capillary photoionization (CPI) ion source design was developed to photoionize analytes inside a transfer capillary between a gas chromatograph (GC) and a mass spectrometer (MS). The CPI setup included a wide, oval-shaped vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) transparent magnesium fluoride (MgF2) window to maximize photoionization efficiency and thus sensitivity. The source contained a nitrogen housing around the ionization chamber inlet to avoid undesirable hydrolysis and oxidation reactions with ambient air and to maximize the proportion of formed molecular radical cations of analytes. The feasibility of the ion source was studied by analyzing 18 endogenous steroids in urine as their trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives with gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The method was validated and applied to human urine samples. To our best knowledge, this is the first time that a capillary photoionization ion source has been applied for quantitative analysis of biological samples. The GC-CPI-MS/MS method showed good chromatographic resolution (peak half-widths between 3.1 to 5.3 s), acceptable linearity (coefficient of determination between 0.981 to 0.996), and repeatability (relative standard deviation (RSD%) between 5 to 18%). Limits of detection (LOD) were between 2 to 100 pg mL-1 and limits of quantitation (LOQ) were between 0.05 to 2 ng mL-1. In total, 15 steroids were quantified either as a free steroid or glucuronide conjugate from the urine of volunteers. The new CPI source design showed excellent sensitivity for analysis of steroids in complex biological samples.
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26
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Varcoe TJ, Darby JRT, Gatford KL, Holman SL, Cheung P, Berry MJ, Wiese MD, Morrison JL. Considerations in selecting postoperative analgesia for pregnant sheep following fetal instrumentation surgery. Anim Front 2019; 9:60-67. [PMID: 32002263 PMCID: PMC6952008 DOI: 10.1093/af/vfz019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara J Varcoe
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jack R T Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stacey L Holman
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Pearl Cheung
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mary J Berry
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and Centre for Translational Physiology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael D Wiese
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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27
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González-Orozco JC, Camacho-Arroyo I. Progesterone Actions During Central Nervous System Development. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:503. [PMID: 31156378 PMCID: PMC6533804 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although progesterone is a steroid hormone mainly associated with female reproductive functions, such as uterine receptivity and maintenance of pregnancy, accumulating data have shown its physiological actions to extend to several non-reproductive functions in the central nervous system (CNS) both in males and females. In fact, progesterone is de novo synthesized in specific brain regions by neurons and glial cells and is involved in the regulation of various molecular and cellular processes underlying myelination, neuroprotection, neuromodulation, learning and memory, and mood. Furthermore, progesterone has been reported to be implicated in critical developmental events, such as cell differentiation and neural circuits formation. This view is supported by the increase in progesterone synthesis observed during pregnancy in both the placenta and the fetal brain. In the present review, we will focus on progesterone actions during CNS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos González-Orozco
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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28
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Toribio RE. Equine Neonatal Encephalopathy: Facts, Evidence, and Opinions. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2019; 35:363-378. [PMID: 31088699 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) and neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS) are terms used for newborn foals that develop noninfectious neurologic signs in the immediate postpartum period. Cerebral ischemia, hypoxia, and inflammation leading to neuronal and glial dysfunction and excitotoxicity are considered key mechanisms behind NE/NMS. Attention has been placed on endocrine and paracrine factors that alter brain cell function. Abnormal steroid concentrations (progestogens, neurosteroids) have been measured in critically ill and NE foals. In addition to supportive treatment, antimicrobials should be considered. Controversies regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of NE and NMS will remain until controlled mechanistic and therapeutic studies are conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro E Toribio
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp Street, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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29
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Pluchino N, Ansaldi Y, Genazzani AR. Brain intracrinology of allopregnanolone during pregnancy and hormonal contraception. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2019; 37:hmbci-2018-0032. [PMID: 30739099 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2018-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone (ALLO) has a crucial role in brain development and remodeling. Reproductive transitions associated with endocrine changes affect synthesis and activity of ALLO with behavioral/affective consequences. Pregnancy is characterized by an increased synthesis of progesterone/ALLO by the placenta, maternal and fetal brains. This suggests the critical role of these steroids in maternal brain adaptation during pregnancy and the development of the fetal brain. ALLO is brain protective during complications of pregnancy, such as preterm delivery or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), reducing the impact of hypoxia, and excitotoxic brain damage. Negative behavioral consequences of altered progesterone/ALLO maternal brain adaptation have been also hypothesized in the post-partum and targeting ALLO is a promising treatment. Hormonal contraception may alter ALLO action, although the effects are mostly related to a specific class of progestins. Understanding the interactions between ALLO and the endocrine environment is crucial for more effective and tailored hormonal treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pluchino
- University Hospital of Geneva, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Genéve, Switzerland
| | - Yveline Ansaldi
- University Hospital of Geneva, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Genéve, Switzerland
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30
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Schmidt M, Rauh M, Schmid MC, Huebner H, Ruebner M, Wachtveitl R, Cordasic N, Rascher W, Menendez-Castro C, Hartner A, Fahlbusch FB. Influence of Low Protein Diet-Induced Fetal Growth Restriction on the Neuroplacental Corticosterone Axis in the Rat. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:124. [PMID: 30915031 PMCID: PMC6421269 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Placental steroid metabolism is linked to the fetal hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) might alter this cross-talk and lead to maternal stress, in turn contributing to the pathogenesis of anxiety-related disorders of the offspring, which might be mediated by fetal overexposure to, or a reduced local enzymatic protection against maternal glucocorticoids. So far, direct evidence of altered levels of circulating/local glucocorticoids is scarce. Liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) allows quantitative endocrine assessment of blood and tissue. Using a rat model of maternal protein restriction (low protein [LP] vs. normal protein [NP]) to induce IUGR, we analyzed fetal and maternal steroid levels via LC-MS/MS along with the local expression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase (Hsd11b). Methods: Pregnant Wistar dams were fed a low protein (8%, LP; IUGR) or an isocaloric normal protein diet (17%, NP; controls). At E18.5, the expression of Hsd11b1 and 2 was determined by RT-PCR in fetal placenta and brain. Steroid profiling of maternal and fetal whole blood, fetal brain, and placenta was performed via LC-MS/MS. Results: In animals with LP-induced reduced body (p < 0.001) and placental weights (p < 0.05) we did not observe any difference in the expressional Hsd11b1/2-ratio in brain or placenta. Moreover, LP diet did not alter corticosterone (Cort) or 11-dehydrocorticosterone (DH-Cort) levels in dams, while fetal whole blood levels of Cort were significantly lower in the LP group (p < 0.001) and concomitantly in LP brain (p = 0.003) and LP placenta (p = 0.002). Maternal and fetal progesterone levels (whole blood and tissue) were not influenced by LP diet. Conclusion: Various rat models of intrauterine stress show profound alterations in placental Hsd11b2 gatekeeper function and fetal overexposure to corticosterone. In contrast, LP diet in our model induced IUGR without altering maternal steroid levels or placental enzymatic glucocorticoid barrier function. In fact, IUGR offspring showed significantly reduced levels of circulating and local corticosterone. Thus, our LP model might not represent a genuine model of intrauterine stress. Hypothetically, the observed changes might reflect a fetal attempt to maintain anabolic conditions in the light of protein restriction to sustain regular brain development. This may contribute to fetal origins of later neurodevelopmental sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Schmidt
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Manfred Rauh
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias C. Schmid
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hanna Huebner
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics/Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias Ruebner
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics/Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Wachtveitl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nada Cordasic
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Rascher
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carlos Menendez-Castro
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea Hartner
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Fabian B. Fahlbusch
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Fabian B. Fahlbusch
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31
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Fleiss B, Wong F, Brownfoot F, Shearer IK, Baud O, Walker DW, Gressens P, Tolcos M. Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Research Areas in Intrauterine Growth Restriction-Associated Brain Injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:188. [PMID: 30984110 PMCID: PMC6449431 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a complex global healthcare issue. Concerted research and clinical efforts have improved our knowledge of the neurodevelopmental sequelae of IUGR which has raised the profile of this complex problem. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of therapies to prevent the substantial rates of fetal demise or the constellation of permanent neurological deficits that arise from IUGR. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical and translational gaps in our knowledge that hamper our collective efforts to improve the neurological sequelae of IUGR. Also, we draw attention to cutting-edge tools and techniques that can provide novel insights into this disorder, and technologies that offer the potential for better drug design and delivery. We cover topics including: how we can improve our use of crib-side monitoring options, what we still need to know about inflammation in IUGR, the necessity for more human post-mortem studies, lessons from improved integrated histology-imaging analyses regarding the cell-specific nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals, options to improve risk stratification with genomic analysis, and treatments mediated by nanoparticle delivery which are designed to modify specific cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi Fleiss
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bobbi Fleiss
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona Brownfoot
- Translational Obstetrics Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle K. Shearer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivier Baud
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Children's Hospital, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W. Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Pierre Gressens
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- PremUP, Paris, France
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Hirst JJ, Palliser HK, Shaw JC, Crombie G, Walker DW, Zakar T. Birth and Neonatal Transition in the Guinea Pig: Experimental Approaches to Prevent Preterm Birth and Protect the Premature Fetus. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1802. [PMID: 30618814 PMCID: PMC6297273 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) displays many features of gestational physiology that makes it the most translationally relevant rodent species. Progesterone production undergoes a luteal to placental shift as in human pregnancy with levels rising during gestation and with labor and delivery occurring without a precipitous decline in maternal progesterone levels. In contrast to other laboratory rodents, labor in guinea pigs is triggered by a functional progesterone withdrawal, which involves the loss of uterine sensitivity to progesterone like in women. In both species the amnion membrane is a major source of labor-inducing prostaglandins, which promote functional progesterone withdrawal by modifying myometrial progesterone receptor expression. These similar features appear to result from convergent evolution rather than closer evolutionally relationship to primates compared to other rodents. Nevertheless, the similarities in the production, metabolism and actions of progesterone and prostaglandins allow information gained in pregnant guinea pigs to be extended to pregnant women with confidence. This includes exploring the effects of pregnancy complications including growth restriction and the mechanisms by which stressful conditions increase the incidence of preterm labor. The relatively long gestation of the guinea pig and the maturity of the pups at birth particularly in brain development means that a greater proportion of brain development happens in utero. This allows adverse intrauterine conditions to make a sustained impact on the developing brain like in compromised human pregnancies. In addition, the brain is exposed to a protective neurosteroid environment in utero, which has been suggested to promote development in the guinea pig and the human. Moreover, in utero stresses that have been shown to adversely affect long term neurobehavioral outcomes in clinical studies, can be modeled successfully in guinea pigs. Overall, these parallels to the human have led to increasing interest in the guinea pig for translational studies of treatments and therapies that potentially improve outcomes following adverse events in pregnancy and after preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Hirst
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah K Palliser
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Julia C Shaw
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Gabrielle Crombie
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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DISTURBANCE OF THE PROGESTERONE AND ITS METABOLITES SYNTHESIS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS IN CHILDREN AFTER CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION DURING PREGNANCY. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2018. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2018-3.4.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is one of the causes of congenital neurological disorders and the virus itself is the most common viral agent causing an imbalance in the production of placenta progesterone and its neuroactive metabolites – allopregnenolone and 5α-dihydroprogesterone. The aim was to evaluate the concentration of progesterone and its metabolites – 5α-dihydroprogesterone and allopregnenolone – in placenta during exacerbation of CMV infection in the first trimester of pregnancy, and the impact of these disturbances on the development of neurological disorders in children. We examined 30 pregnant women with exacerbation of CMV infection in the first trimester of pregnancy and 30 pregnant women with latent disease; and later their newborns. The enzyme immunoassay was used to determine concentration of progesterone in placenta; the histochemical method – to determine 5α-dihydroprogesterone and allopregnenolone. Newborns underwent neurosonography studies. Exacerbation of CMV infection in the first trimester of pregnancy decreased progesterone in placenta by 1.3 times, 5α-dihydroprogesterone – by 1.73 times and allopregnenolone – by 2 times. Ultrasound examination of the brain showed ventriculomegaly, periventricular ischemia, and pseudocysts in newborns up to one year from mothers with exacerbation of CMV during pregnancy. Later, minimal brain dysfunctions were manifested by motor disorders, increased general, vegetative excitability, and a tendency to digestive and sleep disorders. The data obtained indicate that the exacerbation of CMV infection in the first trimester of pregnancy is interrelated with a decrease in the concentration of progesterone and its metabolites (5α-dihydroprogesterone, allopregnenolone) in the placenta and development of neurological dysfunction in newborns.
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Ellery SJ, Kelleher M, Grigsby P, Burd I, Derks JB, Hirst J, Miller SL, Sherman LS, Tolcos M, Walker DW. Antenatal prevention of cerebral palsy and childhood disability: is the impossible possible? J Physiol 2018; 596:5593-5609. [PMID: 29928763 DOI: 10.1113/jp275595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review covers our current knowledge of the causes of perinatal brain injury leading to cerebral palsy-like outcomes, and argues that much of this brain damage is preventable. We review the experimental evidence that there are treatments that can be safely administered to women in late pregnancy that decrease the likelihood and extent of perinatal brain damage that occurs because of acute and severe hypoxia that arises during some births, and the additional impact of chronic fetal hypoxia, infection, inflammation, growth restriction and preterm birth. We discuss the types of interventions required to ameliorate or even prevent apoptotic and necrotic cell death, and the vulnerability of all the major cell types in the brain (neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, cerebral vasculature) to hypoxia/ischaemia, and whether a pan-protective treatment given to the mother before birth is a realistic prospect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey J Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Meredith Kelleher
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Peta Grigsby
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Irina Burd
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jan B Derks
- Department of Perinatal Medicine University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands, Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jon Hirst
- University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Suzanne L Miller
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Larry S Sherman
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Melbourne, Australia
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Bennet L, Walker DW, Horne RSC. Waking up too early - the consequences of preterm birth on sleep development. J Physiol 2018; 596:5687-5708. [PMID: 29691876 DOI: 10.1113/jp274950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Good quality sleep of sufficient duration is vital for optimal physiological function and our health. Sleep deprivation is associated with impaired neurocognitive function and emotional control, and increases the risk for cardiometabolic diseases, obesity and cancer. Sleep develops during fetal life with the emergence of a recognisable pattern of sleep states in the preterm fetus associated with the development, maturation and connectivity within neural networks in the brain. Despite the physiological importance of sleep, surprisingly little is known about how sleep develops in individuals born preterm. Globally, an estimated 15 million babies are born preterm (<37 weeks gestation) each year, and these babies are at significant risk of neural injury and impaired brain development. This review discusses how sleep develops during fetal and neonatal life, how preterm birth impacts on sleep development to adulthood, and the factors which may contribute to impaired brain and sleep development, leading to altered neurocognitive, behavioural and motor capabilities in the infant and child. Going forward, the challenge is to identify specific risk factors for impaired sleep development in preterm babies to allow for the design of interventions that will improve the quality and quantity of sleep throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bennet
- Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rosemary S C Horne
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Paediatrics, Monash University and Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Zhang Y, Zhang M, Li L, Wei B, He A, Lu L, Li X, Zhang L, Xu Z, Sun M. Methylation-reprogrammed Wnt/β-catenin signalling mediated prenatal hypoxia-induced brain injury in foetal and offspring rats. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:3866-3874. [PMID: 29808608 PMCID: PMC6050486 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13660] [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: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal hypoxia (PH) is a common pregnancy complication, harmful to brain development. This study investigated whether and how PH affected Wnt pathway in the brain. Pregnant rats were exposed to hypoxia (10.5% O2) or normoxia (21% O2; Control). Foetal brain weight and body weight were decreased in the PH group, the ratio of brain weight to body weight was increased significantly. Prenatal hypoxia increased mRNA expression of Wnt3a, Wnt7a, Wnt7b and Fzd4, but not Lrp6. Activated β‐catenin protein and Fosl1 expression were also significantly up‐regulated. Increased Hif1a expression was found in the PH group associated with the higher Wnt signalling. Among 5 members of the Sfrp family, Sfrp4 was down‐regulated. In the methylation‐regulating genes, higher mRNA expressions of Dnmt1 and Dnmt3b were found in the PH group. Sodium bisulphite and sequencing revealed hyper‐methylation in the promoter region of Sfrp4 gene in the foetal brain, accounting for its decreased expression and contributing to the activation of the Wnt‐Catenin signalling. The study of PC12 cells treated with 5‐aza further approved that decreased methylation could result in the higher Sfrp4 expression. In the offspring hippocampus, protein levels of Hif1a and mRNA expression of Sfrp4 were unchanged, whereas Wnt signal pathway was inhibited. The data demonstrated that PH activated the Wnt pathway in the foetal brain, related to the hyper‐methylation of Sfrp4 as well as Hif1a signalling. Activated Wnt signalling might play acute protective roles to the foetal brain in response to hypoxia, also would result in disadvantageous influence on the offspring in long‐term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mengshu Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingjun Li
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Bin Wei
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Axin He
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Likui Lu
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Zhice Xu
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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37
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Wynn MA, Esteller-Vico A, Legacki EL, Conley AJ, Loux SC, Stanley SD, Curry TE, Squires EL, Troedsson MH, Ball BA. A comparison of progesterone assays for determination of peripheral pregnane concentrations in the late pregnant mare. Theriogenology 2018; 106:127-133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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38
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Rousseau JP, Tenorio-Lopes L, Baldy C, Janes TA, Fournier S, Kinkead R. On the origins of sex-based differences in respiratory disorders: Lessons and hypotheses from stress neuroendocrinology in developing rats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2017; 245:105-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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The role of IL-6 in neurodevelopment after prenatal stress. Brain Behav Immun 2017; 65:274-283. [PMID: 28546058 PMCID: PMC5537020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal stress exposure is associated with adverse psychiatric outcomes, including autism and ADHD, as well as locomotor and social inhibition and anxiety-like behaviors in animal offspring. Similarly, maternal immune activation also contributes to psychiatric risk and aberrant offspring behavior. The mechanisms underlying these outcomes are not clear. Offspring microglia and the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), known to influence microglia, may serve as common mechanisms between prenatal stress and prenatal immune activation. To evaluate the role of prenatal IL-6 in prenatal stress, microglia morphological analyses were conducted at embryonic days 14 (E14), E15, and in adult mice. Offspring microglia and behavior were evaluated after repetitive maternal restraint stress, repetitive maternal IL-6, or maternal IL-6 blockade during stress from E12 onwards. At E14, novel changes in cortical plate embryonic microglia were documented-a greater density of the mutivacuolated morphology. This resulted from either prenatal stress or IL-6 exposure and was prevented by IL-6 blockade during prenatal stress. Prenatal stress also resulted in increased microglia ramification in adult brain, as has been previously shown. As with embryonic microglia, prenatal IL-6 recapitulated prenatal stress-induced changes in adult microglia. Furthermore, prenatal IL-6 was able to recapitulate the delay in GABAergic progenitor migration caused by prenatal stress. However, IL-6 mechanisms were not necessary for this delay, which persisted after prenatal stress despite IL-6 blockade. As we have previously demonstrated, behavioral effects of prenatal stress in offspring, including increased anxiety-like behavior, decreased sociability, and locomotor inhibition, may be related to these GABAergic delays. While adult microglia changes were ameliorated by IL-6 blockade, these behavioral changes were independent of IL-6 mechanisms, similar to GABAergic delays. This and previous work from our laboratory suggests that multiple mechanisms, including GABAergic delays, may underlie prenatal stress-linked deficits.
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40
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Yawno T, Miller SL, Bennet L, Wong F, Hirst JJ, Fahey M, Walker DW. Ganaxolone: A New Treatment for Neonatal Seizures. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:246. [PMID: 28878622 PMCID: PMC5572234 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are amongst the most common neurologic conditions managed by a neonatal care service. Seizures can exacerbate existing brain injury, induce “de novo” injury, and are associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities in post-neonatal life. In this mini-review, we present evidence in support of the use of ganaxolone, a GABAA agonist neurosteroid, as a novel neonatal therapy. We discuss evidence that ganaxolone can provide both seizure control and neuroprotection with a high safety profile when administered early following birth-related hypoxia, and show evidence that it is likely to prevent or reduce the incidence of the enduring disabilities associated with preterm birth, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. We suggest that ganaxolone is an ideal anti-seizure treatment because it can be safely used prospectively, with minimal or no adverse effects on the neonatal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Yawno
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Suzie L Miller
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura Bennet
- Department of Physiology, The University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand
| | - Flora Wong
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of NewcastleCallaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Fahey
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT UniversityBundoora, VIC, Australia
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41
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Diemert A, Goletzke J, Barkmann C, Jung R, Hecher K, Arck P. Maternal progesterone levels are modulated by maternal BMI and predict birth weight sex-specifically in human pregnancies. J Reprod Immunol 2017. [PMID: 28641119 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Successful pregnancy outcome is the result of a tailored adaptation of the maternal endocrine and immune system throughout gestation. We aimed to investigate if maternal endocrine, anthropometric and life style factors assessed longitudinally throughout pregnancy allow prediction of birth weight. STUDY DESIGN Data on maternal factors and obstetrical characteristics from 220 pregnancies from a German prospective pregnancy cohort were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression models. The association between maternal progesterone levels at the end of the 1st (gw 12-14), the 2nd (gw 22-24) and the 3rd trimester (gw 34-36) and birth weight of children born at term was examined. Interaction terms were included to identify possible sex-specific associations. Furthermore, associations between maternal and obstetric characteristics and progesterone levels were tested. RESULTS After controlling for possible confounders, progesterone in the 2nd trimester emerged as an independent predictor for birth weight in pregnancies with female (p=0.01), but not male fetuses (p=0.6). In female fetuses each increase of progesterone by 1ng/ml in the 2nd trimester was associated with an increase of birth weight by 6.8g (95%-CI=1.44-12.24). Maternal 1st trimester BMI showed a significant inverse correlation to progesterone levels throughout gestation (p<0.0001 in the 1st and 2nd, p=0.01 in the 3rd trimester). This inverse association between maternal BMI and progesterone levels was confined to overweight women. CONCLUSION Our data support that maternal progesterone levels have the potential to serve as early biomarker for reduced birth weight and underpins the importance of normal weight when entering the reproductive phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Diemert
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Janina Goletzke
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claus Barkmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Robert Jung
- Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Chemistry/Central Laboratories, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra Arck
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Bellieni CV, Vannuccini S, Petraglia F. Is fetal analgesia necessary during prenatal surgery? J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 31:1241-1245. [PMID: 28337942 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1311860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Fetal pain and fetal anesthesia are still matter of debate: some authors hypothesize that several intrauterine endocrine neuroinhibitors (ENIn) anesthetize the fetus, keeping it in a constant state of sleep, and making pharmacological fetal anesthesia useless for fetal surgery, while others argue fetal pain is possible and shoud be prevented with fetal anesthesy. AIM To retrieve evidences about fetal pain, fetal arousability and about the level of sedation induced by the ENIn, in order to assess the necessity of direct fetal anesthesia during prenatal fetal surgery. METHODS We performed a careful literature review (1990-2016) on fetal arousability, and on the possibility that ENIn at the average fetal blood levels induce actual anesthesia. We retrieved the papers that fulfilled the research criteria, with particular attention to the second half of pregnancy, the period when most fetal surgery is performed. RESULTS Fetuses are awake about 10% of the total time in the last gestational weeks, and they can be aroused by external stimuli. ENIn have not an anesthetic effect at normal fetal values, but only when they areartificialy injected at high doses; their blood levels in the last trimester of average pregnancies are not dissimilar either in the fetus or in the mother. CONCLUSIONS During the second half of the pregnancy, external stimuli can awake the fetuses, although they spend most of the time in sleeping state; the presence of ENIn is absolutely not enough to guarantee an effective anesthesia during surgery. Thus, direct fetal analgesia/anesthesia is mandatory, though further studies on its possible drawbacks are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo V Bellieni
- a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit , University Hospital of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- b Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- b Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
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43
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Tolcos M, Petratos S, Hirst JJ, Wong F, Spencer SJ, Azhan A, Emery B, Walker DW. Blocked, delayed, or obstructed: What causes poor white matter development in intrauterine growth restricted infants? Prog Neurobiol 2017; 154:62-77. [PMID: 28392287 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Poor white matter development in intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) babies remains a major, untreated problem in neonatology. New therapies, guided by an understanding of the mechanisms that underlie normal and abnormal oligodendrocyte development and myelin formation, are required. Much of our knowledge of the mechanisms that underlie impaired myelination come from studies in adult demyelinating disease, preterm brain injury, or experimental models of hypoxia-ischemia. However, relatively less is known for IUGR which is surprising because IUGR is a leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity, second only to premature birth. IUGR is also a significant risk factor for the later development of cerebral palsy, and is a greater risk compared to some of the more traditionally researched antecedents - asphyxia and inflammation. Recent evidence suggests that the white matter injury and reduced myelination in the brains of some preterm babies is due to impaired maturation of oligodendrocytes thereby resulting in the reduced capacity to synthesize myelin. Therefore, it is not surprising that the hypomyelination observable in the central nervous system of IUGR infants has similarly lead to investigations identifying a delay or blockade in the progress of maturation of oligodendrocytes in these infants. This review will discuss current ideas thought to account for the poor myelination often present in the neonate's brain following IUGR, and discuss novel interventions that are promising as treatments that promote oligodendrocyte maturation, and thereby repair the myelination deficits that otherwise persist into infancy and childhood and lead to neurodevelopmental abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.
| | - Steven Petratos
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Prahran, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia; Monash Newborn and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Aminath Azhan
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Ben Emery
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239-3098, USA
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
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44
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Pluchino N, Russo M, Genazzani AR. The fetal brain: role of progesterone and allopregnanolone. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2017; 27:29-34X. [PMID: 27442421 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2016-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone and allopregnanolone have crucial and different roles in brain development, function and recovery after injury. Pregnancy is characterized by an increased synthesis of progesterone and its neuro-active metabolites by the placenta, maternal and fetal brain. This supports the critical role of these steroids in maternal brain adaptation during pregnancy and development of the fetal brain. Moreover, allopregnanolone may play a brain-protective role during complications of pregnancy, complications of pregnancy, such as preterm delivery or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), by reducing the impact of hypoxia and excitotoxic brain damage or impairment myelination. Behavioral consequences of altered progesterone/allopregnanolone fetal brain programming have also been hypothesized, although further evidence is needed. New potential applications of allopregnanolone as a treatment strategy have also been proposed, addressing unmet clinical needs in perinatal care.
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45
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Latendresse G, Founds S. The Fascinating and Complex Role of the Placenta in Pregnancy and Fetal Well-being. J Midwifery Womens Health 2016; 60:360-70. [PMID: 26255798 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.12344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Existing evidence implicates the placenta as the origin of some common pregnancy complications. Moreover, some maternal conditions, such as inadequate nutrition, diabetes, and obesity, are known to adversely affect placental function, with subsequent negative impact on the fetus and newborn. The placenta may also contribute to fetal programming with health consequences into adulthood, such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental health disorders. There is evidence that altered placental development, specifically impaired trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling in the first trimester, is the origin of preeclampsia. Prenatal care providers who understand the relationships between placental health and maternal-newborn health can better inform and guide women to optimize health early in pregnancy and prior to conception. This article reviews the current understanding of placental function; placental contributions to normal fetal brain development and timing of birth; and impact of maternal nutrition, obesity, and diabetes on the placenta.
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46
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Nakamura S, Walker DW, Wong FY. Cerebral haemodynamic response to somatosensory stimulation in near-term fetal sheep. J Physiol 2016; 595:1289-1303. [PMID: 27805787 DOI: 10.1113/jp273163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Cerebral haemodynamic response to neural stimulation has been extensively investigated in animal and clinical studies, in both adult and paediatric populations, but little is known about cerebral haemodynamic functional response in the fetal brain. The present study describes the cerebral haemodynamic response measured by near-infrared spectroscopy to somatosensory stimulation in fetal sheep. The cerebral haemodynamic response in the fetal sheep brain changes from a positive (increase in oxyhaemoglobin (oxyHb)) response pattern to a negative or biphasic response pattern when the duration of somatosensory stimulation is increased, probably due to cerebral vasoconstriction with prolonged stimulations. In contrast to adult studies, we have found that changes in fetal cerebral blood flow and oxyHb are positively increased in response to somatosensory stimulation during hypercapnia. We propose this is related to reduced vascular resistance and recruitment of cerebral vasculature in the fetal brain during hypercapnia. ABSTRACT Functional hyperaemia induced by a localised increase in neuronal activity has been suggested to occur in the fetal brain owing to a positive blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal recorded by functional magnetic resonance imaging following acoustic stimulation. To study the effect of somatosensory input on local cerebral perfusion we used near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in anaesthetised, partially exteriorised fetal sheep where the median nerve was stimulated with trains of pulses (2 ms, 3.3 Hz) for durations of 1.8, 4.8 and 7.8 s. Signal averaging of cerebral NIRS responses to 20 stimulus trains repeated every 60 s revealed that a short duration of stimulation (1.8 s) increased oxyhaemoglobin in the contralateral cortex consistent with a positive functional response, whereas longer durations of stimulation (4.8, 7.8 s) produced more variable oxyhaemoglobin responses including positive, negative and biphasic patterns of change. Mean arterial blood pressure and cerebral perfusion as monitored by laser Doppler flowmetry always showed small, but coincident increases following median nerve stimulation regardless of the type of response detected by the NIRS in the contralateral cortex. Hypercapnia significantly increased the baseline total haemoglobin and deoxyhaemoglobin, and in 7 of 8 fetal sheep positively increased the changes in contralateral total haemoglobin and oxyhaemoglobin in response to the 7.8 s stimulus train, compared to the response recorded during normocapnia. These results show that activity-driven changes in cerebral perfusion and oxygen delivery are present in the fetal brain, and persist even during periods of hypercapnia-induced cerebral vasodilatation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nakamura
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan.,The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - D W Walker
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - F Y Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Monash Newborn, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, 3168, Australia
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47
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Vedel C, Larsen H, Holmskov A, Andreasen KR, Uldbjerg N, Ramb J, Bødker B, Skibsted L, Sperling L, Krebs L, Zingenberg H, Laursen L, Christensen JT, Tabor A, Rode L. Long-term effects of prenatal progesterone exposure: neurophysiological development and hospital admissions in twins up to 8 years of age. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2016; 48:382-389. [PMID: 27106105 DOI: 10.1002/uog.15948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To perform a neurophysiological follow-up at 48 or 60 months of age in children exposed prenatally to progesterone compared with a placebo and evaluate their medical histories up to 8 years of age. METHODS In this study, Danish participants of the PREDICT study, including 989 surviving children from 498 twin pregnancies, were followed-up. PREDICT was a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial examining the effect of progesterone for prevention of preterm delivery in unselected twin pregnancies. Medical histories of the children were reviewed and neurophysiological development was evaluated by the parent-completed Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) at either 48 or 60 months after the estimated date of delivery. We used the method of generalized estimating equation to account for the correlation within twins. RESULTS A total of 492 children had been exposed prenatally to progesterone and 497 to placebo. There was no difference in the number of admissions to or length of stay in hospital between the treatment groups, and we found no overall difference in the rates of diagnoses made. However, the odds ratios (ORs) for a diagnosis concerning the heart was 1.66 (95% CI, 0.81-3.37), favoring placebo, among all children, 2.38 (95% CI, 1.07-5.30) in dichorionic twins and 8.19 (95% CI, 1.02-65.6) in all children when excluding diagnoses made at outpatient clinic visits. ASQ scores were available for 437 children (progesterone, n = 225; placebo, n = 212). Mean ASQ score was slightly higher in the progesterone group compared with the placebo group (P = 0.03). In dichorionic twins, the risk of having a low ASQ score (< 10(th) centile) was decreased in the progesterone group (OR, 0.34 (95% CI, 0.14-0.86)). CONCLUSION Second- and third-trimester exposure of the fetus to progesterone does not seem to have long-term harmful effects during childhood, but future studies should focus on cardiac disease in the child. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Vedel
- Center of Fetal Medicine and Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - H Larsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - A Holmskov
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Viborg Hospital, Viborg, Denmark
| | - K R Andreasen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - N Uldbjerg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, Denmark
| | - J Ramb
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sønderborg Hospital, Sønderborg, Denmark
| | - B Bødker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - L Skibsted
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Roskilde, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - L Sperling
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - L Krebs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
| | - H Zingenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Glostrup Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - L Laursen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - J T Christensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gentofte Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - A Tabor
- Center of Fetal Medicine and Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L Rode
- Center of Fetal Medicine and Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
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48
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Pařízek A, Hill M, Dušková M, Vítek L, Velíková M, Kancheva R, Šimják P, Koucký M, Kokrdová Z, Adamcová K, Černý A, Hájek Z, Stárka L. A Comprehensive Evaluation of Steroid Metabolism in Women with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159203. [PMID: 27494119 PMCID: PMC4975406 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a common liver disorder, mostly occurring in the third trimester. ICP is defined as an elevation of serum bile acids, typically accompanied by pruritus and elevated activities of liver aminotransferases. ICP is caused by impaired biliary lipid secretion, in which endogenous steroids may play a key role. Although ICP is benign for the pregnant woman, it may be harmful for the fetus. We evaluated the differences between maternal circulating steroids measured by RIA (17-hydroxypregnenolone and its sulfate, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and cortisol) and GC-MS (additional steroids), hepatic aminotransferases and bilirubin in women with ICP (n = 15, total bile acids (TBA) >8 μM) and corresponding controls (n = 17). An age-adjusted linear model, receiver-operating characteristics (ROC), and multivariate regression (a method of orthogonal projections to latent structure, OPLS) were used for data evaluation. While aminotransferases, conjugates of pregnanediols, 17-hydroxypregnenolone and 5β-androstane-3α,17β-diol were higher in ICP patients, 20α-dihydropregnenolone, 16α-hydroxy-steroids, sulfated 17-oxo-C19-steroids, and 5β-reduced steroids were lower. The OPLS model including steroids measured by GC-MS and RIA showed 93.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity, while the model including steroids measured by GC-MS in a single sample aliquot showed 93.3% sensitivity and 94.1% specificity. A composite index including ratios of sulfated 3α/β-hydroxy-5α/β-androstane-17-ones to conjugated 5α/β-pregnane-3α/β, 20α-diols discriminated with 93.3% specificity and 81.3% sensitivity (ROC analysis). These new data demonstrating altered steroidogenesis in ICP patients offer more detailed pathophysiological insights into the role of steroids in the development of ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonín Pařízek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Libor Vítek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics and 4th Department of Internal Medicine, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Patrik Šimják
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Koucký
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Kokrdová
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karolína Adamcová
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andrej Černý
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Hájek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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49
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Ravikumar B, Crawford D, Dellovade T, Savinainen A, Graham D, Liere P, Oudinet JP, Webb M, Hering H. Differential efficacy of the TSPO ligands etifoxine and XBD-173 in two rodent models of Multiple Sclerosis. Neuropharmacology 2016; 108:229-37. [PMID: 27039042 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.03.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neurosteroids such as progesterone and allopregnanolone have been shown to exert neuroprotective effects under a variety of pathological or insult conditions, and there is evidence that the neurosteroid system is perturbed in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. Neurosteroids are synthesized in the central nervous system (CNS) through a series of metabolic transformations, beginning with a rate-limiting step of cholesterol transport through the outer mitochondrial membrane via the transporter translocator protein (TSPO). We examined the effects of etifoxine and XBD-173, two different brain penetrant TSPO agonists, for their ability to ameliorate clinical signs in two different experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) models. Etifoxine, as previously reported, was efficacious in EAE, while XBD-173 was not. Surprisingly, XBD-173, but not etifoxine elevated relevant neurosteroids in brain of female rats and differed in its ability to exert anti-inflammatory and direct neuroprotective effects in vitro as compared to etifoxine. We conclude that the neurosteroid elevations produced in brain by XBD-173 are not sufficient to ameliorate EAE and suggest that etifoxine may have additional mechanisms of action that provide therapeutic benefit in this model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brinda Ravikumar
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Dan Crawford
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Tammy Dellovade
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Anneli Savinainen
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Danielle Graham
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Philippe Liere
- U1195 Inserm & University Paris-Sud, 80, rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | - Jean-Paul Oudinet
- U1195 Inserm & University Paris-Sud, 80, rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | - Mike Webb
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Heike Hering
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA 01821, USA.
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50
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Li J, Yu Y, Wang B, Wu H, Xue G, Hou Y. Selective regulation of neurosteroid biosynthesis under ketamine-induced apoptosis of cortical neurons in vitro. Mol Med Rep 2015; 13:1586-92. [PMID: 26709052 PMCID: PMC4732866 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have suggested that ketamine administration can induce neuroapoptosis in primary cultured cortical neurons. Neurosteroids modulate neuronal function and serve important roles in the central nervous system, however the role of neurosteroids in neuroapoptosis induced by ketamine remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to explore whether neurosteroidogenesis was a pivotal mechanism for neuroprotection against ketamine-induced neuroapoptosis, and whether it may be selectively regulated under ketamine-induced neuroapoptosis conditions in primary cultured cortical neurons. To study this hypothesis, the effect of ketamine exposure on neurosteroidogenesis in primary cultured cortical neurons was investigated. Cholesterol, a substrate involved in the synthesis of neurosteroids, was added to the culture medium, and neurosteroids were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. The data demonstrated that cholesterol blocked ketamine-induced neuroapoptosis by promoting the synthesis of various neurosteroids, and the pathway of neurosteroid testosterone conversion into estradiol was inhibited by ketamine exposure. These data suggest that endogenous neurosteroids biosynthesis is critical for neuroprotection against ketamine-induced neuroapoptosis and inhibiting the biosynthesis of neuroprotective-neurosteroid estradiol is of notable importance for ketamine-induced neuroapoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianli Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050051, P.R. China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Bethune International Peace Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050051, P.R. China
| | - Honghai Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Bethune International Peace Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
| | - Gai Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, Bethune International Peace Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
| | - Yanning Hou
- Department of Pharmacy, Bethune International Peace Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
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