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Mamczarz J, Lane M, Merchenthaler I. Letrozole delays acquisition of water maze task in female BALB/c mice: Possible involvement of anxiety. Horm Behav 2024; 162:105524. [PMID: 38513526 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor preventing estrogen synthesis from testosterone, is used as an adjuvant therapy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients. However, like other aromatase inhibitors, it induces many side effects, including impaired cognition. Despite its negative effect in humans, results from animal models are inconsistent and suggest that letrozole can either impair or improve cognition. Here, we studied the effects of chronic letrozole treatment on cognitive behavior of adult female BALB/c mice, a relevant animal model for breast cancer studies, to develop an appropriate animal model aimed at testing therapies to mitigate side effects of letrozole. In Morris water maze, letrozole 0.1 mg/kg impaired reference learning and memory. Interestingly, most of the letrozole 0.1 mg/kg-treated mice were able to learn the new platform position in reversal training and performed similar to control mice in a reversal probe test. Results of the reversal test suggest that letrozole did not completely disrupt spatial navigation, but rather delayed acquisition of spatial information. The delay might be related to increased anxiety as suggested by increased thigmotactic behavior during the reference memory training. The learning impairment was water maze-specific since we did not observe impairment in other spatial tasks such as in Y-maze or object location test. In contrast, the dose of 0.3 mg/kg did not have effect on water maze learning and facilitated locomotor habituation and recognition in novel object recognition test. The current study shows that letrozole dose-dependently modulates behavioral response and that its effects are task-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Mamczarz
- Division of Translational Toxicology, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America.
| | - Malcolm Lane
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Division of Translational Toxicology, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America; Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America
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2
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Chen Q, Guo P, Hong Y, Mo P, Yu C. The multifaceted therapeutic value of targeting steroid receptor coactivator-1 in tumorigenesis. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:41. [PMID: 38553750 PMCID: PMC10979636 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01222-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1, also known as NCOA1) frequently functions as a transcriptional coactivator by directly binding to transcription factors and recruiting to the target gene promoters to promote gene transcription by increasing chromatin accessibility and promoting the formation of transcriptional complexes. In recent decades, various biological and pathological functions of SRC-1 have been reported, especially in the context of tumorigenesis. SRC-1 is a facilitator of the progression of multiple cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, neurological cancer, and female genital system cancer. The emerging multiorgan oncogenic role of SRC-1 is still being studied and may not be limited to only steroid hormone-producing tissues. Growing evidence suggests that SRC-1 promotes target gene expression by directly binding to transcription factors, which may constitute a novel coactivation pattern independent of AR or ER. In addition, the antitumour effect of pharmacological inhibition of SRC-1 with agents including various small molecules or naturally active compounds has been reported, but their practical application in clinical cancer therapy is very limited. For this review, we gathered typical evidence on the oncogenic role of SRC-1, highlighted its major collaborators and regulatory genes, and mapped the potential mechanisms by which SRC-1 promotes primary tumour progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated First Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China.
| | - Peng Guo
- Department of Cell Biotechnology Laboratory, Tianjin Cancer Hospital Airport Hospital, Tianjin, 300308, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361104, China
| | - Yilin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361104, China
| | - Pingli Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361104, China
| | - Chundong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361104, China.
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Immenschuh J, Thalhammer SB, Sundström-Poromaa I, Biegon A, Dumas S, Comasco E. Sex differences in distribution and identity of aromatase gene expressing cells in the young adult rat brain. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:54. [PMID: 37658400 PMCID: PMC10474706 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00541-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aromatase catalyzes the synthesis of estrogens from androgens. Knowledge on its regional expression in the brain is of relevance to the behavioral implications of these hormones that might be linked to sex differences in mental health. The present study investigated the distribution of cells expressing the aromatase coding gene (Cyp19a1) in limbic regions of young adult rats of both sexes, and characterized the cell types expressing this gene. METHODS Cyp19a1 mRNA was mapped using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Co-expression with specific cell markers was assessed with double FISH; glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic, glial, monoaminergic, as well as interneuron markers were tested. Automated quantification of the cells expressing the different genes was performed using CellProfiler. Sex differences in the number of cells expressing Cyp19a1 was tested non-parametrically, with the effect size indicated by the rank-biserial correlation. FDR correction for multiple testing was applied. RESULTS In the male brain, the highest percentage of Cyp19a1+ cells was found in the medial amygdaloid nucleus and the bed nucleus of stria terminalis, followed by the medial preoptic area, the CA2/3 fields of the hippocampus, the cortical amygdaloid nucleus and the amygdalo-hippocampal area. A lower percentage was detected in the caudate putamen, the nucleus accumbens, and the ventromedial hypothalamus. In females, the distribution of Cyp19a1+ cells was similar but at a lower percentage. In most regions, the majority of Cyp19a1+ cells were GABAergic, except for in the cortical-like regions of the amygdala where most were glutamatergic. A smaller fraction of cells co-expressed Slc1a3, suggesting expression of Cyp19a1 in astrocytes; monoaminergic markers were not co-expressed. Moreover, sex differences were detected regarding the identity of Cyp19a1+ cells. CONCLUSIONS Females show overall a lower number of cells expressing Cyp19a1 in the limbic brain. In both sexes, aromatase is expressed in a region-specific manner in GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons. These findings call for investigations of the relevance of sex-specific and region-dependent expression of Cyp19a1 in the limbic brain to sex differences in behavior and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Immenschuh
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stefan Bernhard Thalhammer
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anat Biegon
- Department of Radiology and Neurology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | | | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Brann DW, Lu Y, Wang J, Sareddy GR, Pratap UP, Zhang Q, Tekmal RR, Vadlamudi RK. Neuron-Derived Estrogen-A Key Neuromodulator in Synaptic Function and Memory. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413242. [PMID: 34948039 PMCID: PMC8706511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to being a steroid hormone, 17β-estradiol (E2) is also a neurosteroid produced in neurons in various regions of the brain of many species, including humans. Neuron-derived E2 (NDE2) is synthesized from androgen precursors via the action of the biosynthetic enzyme aromatase, which is located at synapses and in presynaptic terminals in neurons in both the male and female brain. In this review, we discuss evidence supporting a key role for NDE2 as a neuromodulator that regulates synaptic plasticity and memory. Evidence supporting an important neuromodulatory role of NDE2 in the brain has come from studies using aromatase inhibitors, aromatase overexpression in neurons, global aromatase knockout mice, and the recent development of conditional forebrain neuron-specific knockout mice. Collectively, these studies demonstrate a key role of NDE2 in the regulation of synapse and spine density, efficacy of excitatory synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation, and regulation of hippocampal-dependent recognition memory, spatial reference memory, and contextual fear memory. NDE2 is suggested to achieve these effects through estrogen receptor-mediated regulation of rapid kinase signaling and CREB-BDNF signaling pathways, which regulate actin remodeling, as well as transcription, translation, and transport of synaptic proteins critical for synaptic plasticity and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrell W. Brann
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Yujiao Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Gangadhara R. Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Uday P. Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA;
| | - Rajeshwar R. Tekmal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Ratna K. Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
- Audie L. Murphy Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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Meng Z, Wang X, Zhang D, Lan Z, Cai X, Bian C, Zhang J. Steroid receptor coactivator-1: The central intermediator linking multiple signals and functions in the brain and spinal cord. Genes Dis 2021; 9:1281-1289. [PMID: 35873031 PMCID: PMC9293692 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of steroid hormones are believed to be mediated by their nuclear receptors (NRs). The p160 coactivator family, including steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1), 2 and 3, has been shown to physically interact with NRs to enhance their transactivational activities. Among which SRC-1 has been predominantly localized in the central nervous system including brain and spinal cord. It is not only localized in neurons but also detectable in neuroglial cells (mainly localized in the nuclei but also detectable in the extra-nuclear components). Although the expression of SRC-1 is regulated by many steroids, it is also regulated by some non-steroidal factors such as injury, sound and light. Functionally, SRC-1 has been implied in normal function such as development and ageing, learning and memory, central regulation on reproductive behaviors, motor and food intake. Pathologically, SRC-1 may play a role in the regulation of neuropsychiatric disorders (including stress, depression, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder), metabolite homeostasis and obesity as well as tumorigenesis. Under most conditions, the related mechanisms are far from elucidation; although it may regulate spatial memory through Rictor/mTORC2-actin polymerization related synaptic plasticity. Several inhibitors and stimulator of SRC-1 have shown anti-cancer potentials, but whether these small molecules could be used to modulate ageing and central disorder related neuropathology remain unclear. Therefore, to elucidate when and how SRC-1 is turned on and off under different stimuli is very interesting and great challenge for neuroscientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyou Meng
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Xiaoya Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanchong Central Hospital, the Second Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan 637000, PR China
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Zhen Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Xiaoxia Cai
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Chen Bian
- School of Psychology, Amy Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
- Corresponding author.
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Lan Z, Meng Z, Lian B, Liu M, Sun T, Sun H, Liu Z, Hu Z, Guo Q, Zhang J. Hippocampal Aromatase Knockdown Aggravates Ovariectomy-Induced Spatial Memory Impairment, Aβ Accumulation and Neural Plasticity Deficiency in Adult Female Mice. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1188-1202. [PMID: 33559105 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03258-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian estrogens (mainly 17β estradiol, E2) have been involved in the regulation of the structure of hippocampus, the center of spatial memory. In recent years, high levels of aromatase (AROM), the estrogen synthase, has been localized in hippocampus; and this hippocampus-derived E2 seems to be functional in synaptic plasticity and spatial memory as ovarian E2 does. However, the contribution of ovarian E2 and hippocampal E2 to spatial memory and neural plasticity remains unclear. In this study, AROM-specific RNA interference AAVs (shAROM) were constructed and injected into the hippocampus of control or ovariectomized (OVX) mice. Four weeks later the spatial learning and memory behavior was examined with Morris water maze, the expression of hippocampal Aβ related proteins, selected synaptic proteins and CA1 synapse density, actin polymerization related proteins and CA1 spine density were also examined. The results showed that while OVX and hippocampal shAROM contributed similarly to most of the parameters examined, shAROM induced more increase in BACE1 (amyloidogenic β-secretase), more decrease in neprilysin (Aβ remover) and Profilin-1 (actin polymerization inducer). More importantly, combined OVX and shAROM treatment displayed most significant impairment of spatial learning and memory as well as decrease in synaptic plasticity compared to OVX or shAROM alone. In conclusion, the above results clearly demonstrated the crucial role of hippocampal E2 in the regulation of the structure and function of hippocampus besides ovarian E2, indicating that hippocampal E2 content should also be taken into consideration during estrogenic replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaoyou Meng
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Biyao Lian
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pediatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The 305 Hospital of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The 63650 Hospital of PLA, Malan, China
| | - Huan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Center for Brain Science, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenxin Hu
- Battalion One of Basic Medical Sciences, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Marbouti L, Zahmatkesh M, Riahi E, Sadr SS. Inhibition of brain 17β-estradiol synthesis by letrozole induces cognitive decline in male and female rats. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2020; 175:107300. [PMID: 32882397 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2020.107300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hippocampal aromatase is responsible for local synthesis of 17β-estradiol (E2) that has much higher concentrations than serum levels in males and females. Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, passes through the brain barriers, distributes to the brain, and affects local E2 synthesis. Here, the effects of intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) letrozole administration in the presence and absence of gonads were examined on the cognitive abilities of male and female rats. METHOD Animals received intra-ICV injection of letrozole or vehicle for 14 consecutive days. Spatial working memory, novel object recognition memory, and anxiety-related behavior, were evaluated using Y-maze, object recognition test, and elevated plus maze, respectively. The E2 levels in the serum and hippocampal tissue were measured by the ELISA technique. RT-PCR was performed to assess the hippocampal estrogen receptors (ER) expression. Moreover, letrozole effect on neuronal activity of CA1 pyramidal neurons was studied by in vivo single-unit recording. RESULTS Letrozole (0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 µg) significantly decreased the hippocampal E2 levels compared to the vehicle group. Letrozole caused cognitive impairments in a dose-dependent manner in male and female rats in the presence or absence of gonads. Dose-response analysis revealed that the minimum effective dose of letrozole on the behavioral measures was 0.4 μg. Letrozole also caused an up-regulation of ERα and ERβ and a down-regulation of GPR30 gene expression. The firing rate of pyramidal neurons was reduced by letrozole in gonadal-intact animals. CONCLUSION The detrimental effects of letrozole treatment on cognitive abilities in the presence and absence of gonads indicate that local E2 synthesis in the hippocampus is a crucial factor in normal cognitive performance. The suppressive effect of letrozole on hippocampal neuronal firing might alter synaptic plasticity that is critical for memory formation. These data potentially suggest that memory deficits following letrozole administration should be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Marbouti
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience and Addiction Studies Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Zahmatkesh
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience and Addiction Studies Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Esmail Riahi
- Physiology Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Shahabeddin Sadr
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Physiology Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wu Q, Wang B, Li QF, Zhang X, Ntim M, Wu XF, Li N, Zhu DD, Jiang R, Yang JY, Yuan YH, Li S. SRC-1 Knockout Exerts No Effect on Amyloid β Deposition in APP/PS1 Mice. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:145. [PMID: 32625077 PMCID: PMC7311769 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid receptor coactivator 1 (SRC-1) is the key coactivator because of its transcriptional activity. Previous studies have shown that SRC-1 is abundant in the hippocampus and has been implicated in cognition. SRC-1 is also related to some major risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), such as a decline in estrogen and aging, however, whether SRC-1 is involved in the pathogenesis of AD remains unclear. In this study, we established SRC-1 knockout in AD mice by cross breeding SRC-1−/− mutant mice with APP/PS1 transgenic mice, and investigated the expression of some synaptic proteins, the amyloid β (Aβ) deposition, and activation of astrocytes and microglia in the hippocampus of APP/PS1×SRC-1−/− mice. The results showed that SRC-1 knockout neither affects the Aβ plaque and activation of glia, nor changes the expression of synaptic proteins in AD model mice. The above results suggest that the complete deletion of SRC-1 in the embryo exerts no effect on the pathogenesis of APP/PS1 mice. Nevertheless, this study could not eliminate the possible role of SRC-1 in the development of AD due to the lack of observation of other events in AD such as tau hyperphosphorylation and the limitation of the animal model employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wu
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qi-Fa Li
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R and D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Michael Ntim
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xue-Fei Wu
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Na Li
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R and D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhu
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Rong Jiang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jin-Yi Yang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Dalian Friendship Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yu-Hui Yuan
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shao Li
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Chen X, Tian Y, Zhu H, Bian C, Li M. Inhibition of steroid receptor coactivator-1 in the hippocampus impairs the consolidation and reconsolidation of contextual fear memory in mice. Life Sci 2020; 245:117386. [PMID: 32006528 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) is a key coactivator for the efficient transcriptional activity of steroids in the regulation of hippocampal functions. However, the effect of SRC-1 on hippocampal memory processes remains unknown. Our aim was to investigate the roles of hippocampal SRC-1 in the consolidation and reconsolidation of contextual fear memory in mice. MAIN METHODS Contextual fear conditioning paradigm was constructed in adult male C57BL/6 mice to examine the fear learning and memory processes. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) was infused into hippocampus to block hippocampal SRC-1 level. Immunofluorescent staining was used to detect the efficiency of transfection. High plus maze and open field test were used to determine anxiety and locomotor activity. Western blot analyses were used to detect the expression of SRC-1 and synaptic proteins in the hippocampus. KEY FINDINGS We first showed that the expression of SRC-1 was regulated by fear conditioning training in a time-dependent manner, and knockdown of SRC-1 impaired contextual fear memory consolidation without affecting innate anxiety or locomotor activity. In addition, hippocampal SRC-1 was also regulated by the retrieval of contextual fear memory, and downregulation of SRC-1 disrupted fear memory reconsolidation. Moreover, knockdown of SRC-1 reversed the increased GluR1 and PSD-95 levels induced by contextual fear memory retrieval. SIGNIFICANCE Our data indicate that hippocampal SRC-1 is required for the consolidation and reconsolidation of contextual fear memory, and SRC-1 may be a potential therapeutic target for mental disorders that are involved in hippocampal memory dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Chen
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yiqin Tian
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Haitao Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Airborne Military Hospital, Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan 430014, China
| | - Chen Bian
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Developmental Psychology of Army man, College of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Min Li
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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10
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Estrogenic Regulation of Neuroprotective and Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms: Implications for Depression and Cognition. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-11355-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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11
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Liu M, Xing F, Bian C, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Liu Y, Zhang J. Letrozole induces worse hippocampal synaptic and dendritic changes and spatial memory impairment than ovariectomy in adult female mice. Neurosci Lett 2019; 706:61-67. [PMID: 31077740 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Estrogens (E2) derived from ovaries and/or local de novo synthesis in the hippocampus profoundly regulate hippocampal structure and function, but the importance of local E2 versus ovarian E2 on hippocampal synaptic plasticity and spatial memory has not been well elucidated. The present study used ovariectomy (OVX) and intraperitoneal injection of an E2 synthase inhibitor, letrozole (LET), in adult female mice to investigate changes in hippocampal steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1), postsynaptic proteins, and actin polymerization dynamics with these treatments. Changes in the CA1 spine density, synapse density and spatial learning and memory after OVX and LET were also investigated. As a result, OVX and LET showed similar regulation of the expression of GluR1, spinophilin and p-Cofilin, but LET tended to induce more significant changes in SRC-1, PSD95, Rictor, Cofilin and actin depolymerization. More significant decreases in F-actin/G-actin, CA1 spine density and synapse density were also observed after LET than after OVX. Notably, LET-treated mice showed worse learning and memory impairment than OVX mice. Taken together, these results demonstrated that circulating E2 played a limited role and that hippocampus-derived E2 played a more important role in the regulation of hippocampal synaptic plasticity and hippocampus-based spatial learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Fangzhou Xing
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Chen Bian
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jikai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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12
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Hippocampus-specific Rictor knockdown inhibited 17β-estradiol induced neuronal plasticity and spatial memory improvement in ovariectomized mice. Behav Brain Res 2019; 364:50-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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13
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Xie G, Song C, Lin X, Yang M, Fan X, Liu W, Tao J, Chen L, Huang J. Electroacupuncture Regulates Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity via Inhibiting Janus-Activated Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Signaling in Cerebral Ischemic Rats. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:792-799. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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14
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Zhang YY, Liu MY, Liu Z, Zhao JK, Zhao YG, He L, Li W, Zhang JQ. GPR30-mediated estrogenic regulation of actin polymerization and spatial memory involves SRC-1 and PI3K-mTORC2 in the hippocampus of female mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2019; 25:714-733. [PMID: 30714337 PMCID: PMC6515707 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPR30 (also referred to as GPER) has been implicated in the estrogenic regulation of hippocampal plasticity and spatial memory; however, the molecular mechanisms are largely unclear. METHODS In this study, we initially examined the levels of GPR30 in the hippocampus of postnatal, ovariectomy (OVX)- and letrozole (LET)-treated female mice. Under G1, G15, and/or OVX treatment, the spatial memory, spine density, levels of ERα, ERβ, and SRC-1, selected synaptic proteins, mTORC2 signals (Rictor and p-AKT Ser473), and actin polymerization dynamics were subsequently evaluated. Furthermore, G1, G15, and/or E2 combined with SRC-1 and/or PI3K inhibitors, actin cytoskeleton polymerization modulator JPK, and CytoD treatments were used to address the mechanisms that underlie GPR30 regulation in vitro. Finally, mTORC2 activator A-443654 (A4) was used to explore the role of mTORC2 in GPR30 regulation of spatial memory. RESULTS The results showed that high levels of GPR30 were detected in the adult hippocampus and the levels were downregulated by OVX and LET. OVX induced an impairment of spatial memory, and changes in other parameters previously described were reversed by G1 and mimicked by G15. Furthermore, the E2 effects on SRC-1 and mTORC2 signals, synaptic proteins, and actin polymerization were inhibited by G15, whereas G1 effects on these parameters were inhibited by the blockade of SRC-1 or PI3K; the levels of synaptic proteins were regulated by JPK and CytoD. Importantly, G15-induced actin depolymerization and spatial memory impairment were rescued by mTORC2 activation with A4. CONCLUSIONS Taking together, these results demonstrated that decreased GPR30 induces actin depolymerization through SRC-1 and PI3K/mTORC2 pathways and ultimately impairs learning and memory, indicating its potential role as a therapeutic target against hippocampus-based, E2-related memory impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meng-Ying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Kai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-Gang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li He
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Li
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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15
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Kramer PR, Rao M, Stinson C, Bellinger LL, Kinchington PR, Yee MB. Aromatase Derived Estradiol Within the Thalamus Modulates Pain Induced by Varicella Zoster Virus. Front Integr Neurosci 2018; 12:46. [PMID: 30369871 PMCID: PMC6194186 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2018.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes zoster or shingles is the result of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection and often results in chronic pain that lasts for months after visible symptoms subside. Testosterone often attenuates pain in males. Previous work demonstrates ovarian estrogen effects γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling in the thalamus, reducing pain but the role of testosterone within the thalamus is currently unknown. Because aromatase affects pain and is present in the thalamus we tested a hypothesis that testosterone converted to estrogen in the thalamus attenuates herpes zoster induced pain. To address this hypothesis, male Sprague-Dawley rats received whisker pad injection of either MeWo cells or MeWo cells containing VZV. To reduce aromatase derived estrogen in these animals we injected aromatase inhibitor letrozole systemically or infused it into the thalamus. To test if estrogen was working through the estrogen receptor (ER) agonist, 4, 4′, 4″-(4-Propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol (PPT) was infused concomitant with letrozole. Motivational and affective pain was measured after letrozole and/or PPT treatment. Vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) is important in pain signaling. Because estrogen effects VGAT expression we measured its transcript and protein levels after letrozole treatment. Virus injection and letrozole significantly increased the pain response but thalamic infusion of PPT reduced zoster pain. Letrozole increased the number of thalamic neurons staining for phosphorylated ERK (pERK) but decreased VGAT expression. The results suggest in male rats aromatase derived estradiol interacts with the ER to increase VGAT expression and increase neuronal inhibition in the thalamus to attenuate VZV induced pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip R Kramer
- Department of Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Mahesh Rao
- Department of Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Crystal Stinson
- Department of Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Larry L Bellinger
- Department of Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Paul R Kinchington
- Department of Ophthalmology and of Molecular Microbiology and Genetics, Eye and Ear Foundation, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael B Yee
- Department of Ophthalmology and of Molecular Microbiology and Genetics, Eye and Ear Foundation, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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16
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Brocca ME, Garcia-Segura LM. Non-reproductive Functions of Aromatase in the Central Nervous System Under Physiological and Pathological Conditions. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 39:473-481. [PMID: 30084008 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0607-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The modulation of brain function and behavior by steroid hormones was classically associated with their secretion by peripheral endocrine glands. The discovery that the brain expresses the enzyme aromatase, which produces estradiol from testosterone, expanded this traditional concept. One of the best-studied roles of brain estradiol synthesis is the control of reproductive behavior. In addition, there is increasing evidence that estradiol from neural origin is also involved in a variety of non-reproductive functions. These include the regulation of neurogenesis, neuronal development, synaptic transmission, and plasticity in brain regions not directly related with the control of reproduction. Central aromatase is also involved in the modulation of cognition, mood, and non-reproductive behaviors. Furthermore, under pathological conditions aromatase is upregulated in the central nervous system. This upregulation represents a neuroprotective and likely also a reparative response by increasing local estradiol levels in order to maintain the homeostasis of the neural tissue. In this paper, we review the non-reproductive functions of neural aromatase and neural-derived estradiol under physiological and pathological conditions. We also consider the existence of sex differences in the role of the enzyme in both contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elvira Brocca
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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17
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Neural-derived estradiol regulates brain plasticity. J Chem Neuroanat 2018; 89:53-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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18
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Zhao J, Bian C, Liu M, Zhao Y, Sun T, Xing F, Zhang J. Orchiectomy and letrozole differentially regulate synaptic plasticity and spatial memory in a manner that is mediated by SRC-1 in the hippocampus of male mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:354-368. [PMID: 29452160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hippocampal synaptic plasticity is the basis of spatial memory and cognition and is strongly regulated by both testicular androgens (testosterone, T) and hippocampal estrogens (17β-estradiol, E2) converted from T by aromatase, which is inhibited by letrozole (LET), but the contribution of each pathway to spatial memory and the associated mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we first used orchiectomy (ORX) and LET injection to investigate the effects of T and hippocampal E2 on spatial memory and hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Next, we examined the changes in steroid receptors and steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) under these treatments. Finally, we constructed an SRC-1 RNA interference lentivirus and an AROM overexpression lentivirus to explore the roles of SRC-1 under T replacement and AROM overexpression. The results revealed spatial memory impairment only after LET. LET induced more actin depolymerization and greater losses of spines, synapses, and postsynaptic proteins compared with ORX. Moreover, although ERα and ERβ were affected by LET and ORX at similar levels, AR, GPR30, and SRC-1 were dramatically decreased by LET compared with ORX. Finally, the T and AROM overexpression-induced changes in synaptic proteins and actin polymerization were blocked by SRC-1 inhibition. These results demonstrate that testicular androgens play a limited role, whereas local E2 is more important for cognition, which may explain why castrated men such as eunuchs usually do not have cognitive disorders. These results also suggest a pivotal role of SRC-1 in the action of steroids; thus, SRC-1 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for cognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jikai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chen Bian
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Fangzhou Xing
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China; School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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19
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Bian C, Huang Y, Zhu H, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Zhang J. Steroid Receptor Coactivator-1 Knockdown Decreases Synaptic Plasticity and Impairs Spatial Memory in the Hippocampus of Mice. Neuroscience 2018. [PMID: 29524638 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Steroids have been demonstrated to play profound roles in the regulation of hippocampal function by acting on their receptors, which need coactivators for their transcriptional activities. Previous studies have shown that steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) is the predominant coactivator in the hippocampus, but its exact role and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we constructed SRC-1 RNA interference (RNAi) lentiviruses, injected them into the hippocampus of male mice, and then examined the changes in the expression of selected synaptic proteins, CA1 synapse density, postsynaptic density (PSD) thickness, and in vivo long-term potentiation (LTP). Spatial learning and memory behavior changes were investigated using the Morris water maze. We then transfected the lentiviruses into cultured hippocampal cells and examined the changes in synaptic protein and phospho-cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (pCREB) expression. The in vivo results showed that SRC-1 knockdown significantly decreased the expression of synaptic proteins and CA1 synapse density as well as PSD thickness; SRC-1 knockdown also significantly impaired in vivo LTP and disrupted spatial learning and memory. The in vitro results showed that while the expression of synaptic proteins was significantly decreased by SRC-1 knockdown, pCREB expression was also significantly decreased. The above results suggest a pivotal role of SRC-1 in the regulation of hippocampal synaptic plasticity and spatial learning and memory, strongly indicating SRC-1 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for hippocampus-dependent memory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Bian
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Haitao Zhu
- Department of Military Psychology, College of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Medical Company, Troops 95848 of People's Liberation Army, Xiaogan, Hubei 432100, China
| | - Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jikai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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20
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Xing FZ, Zhao YG, Zhang YY, He L, Zhao JK, Liu MY, Liu Y, Zhang JQ. Nuclear and membrane estrogen receptor antagonists induce similar mTORC2 activation-reversible changes in synaptic protein expression and actin polymerization in the mouse hippocampus. CNS Neurosci Ther 2018; 24:495-507. [PMID: 29352507 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Estrogens play pivotal roles in hippocampal synaptic plasticity through nuclear receptors (nERs; including ERα and ERβ) and the membrane receptor (mER; also called GPR30), but the underlying mechanism and the contributions of nERs and mER remain unclear. Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) is involved in actin cytoskeleton polymerization and long-term memory, but whether mTORC2 is involved in the regulation of hippocampal synaptic plasticity by ERs is unclear. METHODS We treated animals with nER antagonists (MPP/PHTPP) or the mER antagonist (G15) alone or in combination with A-443654, an activator of mTORC2. Then, we examined the changes in hippocampal SRC-1 expression, mTORC2 signaling (rictor and phospho-AKTSer473), actin polymerization (phospho-cofilin and profilin-1), synaptic protein expression (GluR1, PSD95, spinophilin, and synaptophysin), CA1 spine density, and synapse density. RESULTS All of the examined parameters except synaptophysin expression were significantly decreased by MPP/PHTPP and G15 treatment. MPP/PHTPP and G15 induced a similar decrease in most parameters except p-cofilin, GluR1, and spinophilin expression. The ER antagonist-induced decreases in these parameters were significantly reversed by mTORC2 activation, except for the change in SRC-1, rictor, and synaptophysin expression. CONCLUSIONS nERs and mER contribute similarly to the changes in proteins and structures associated with synaptic plasticity, and mTORC2 may be a novel target of hippocampal-dependent dementia such as Alzheimer's disease as proposed by previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Zhou Xing
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-Gang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li He
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Kai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meng-Ying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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21
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Rosenfeld CS, Shay DA, Vieira-Potter VJ. Cognitive Effects of Aromatase and Possible Role in Memory Disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:610. [PMID: 30386297 PMCID: PMC6199361 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse cognitive functions in many vertebrate species are influenced by local conversion of androgens to 17β-estradiol (E2) by aromatase. This enzyme is highly expressed in various brain regions across species, with some inter-species variation in terms of regional brain expression. Since women with breast cancer and men and women with other disorders are often treated with aromatase inhibitors (AI), these populations might be especially vulnerable to cognitive deficits due to low neuroE2 synthesis, i.e., synthesis of E2 directly within the brain. Animal models have been useful in deciphering aromatase effects on cognitive functions. Consequences of AI administration at various life cycle stages have been assessed on auditory, song processing, and spatial memory in birds and various aspects of cognition in rodent models. Additionally, cognitive deficits have been described in aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice that systemically lack this gene throughout their lifespan. This review will consider evidence to date that AI treatment in male and female rodent models, birds, and humans results in cognitive impairments. How brain aromatase regulates cognitive function throughout the lifespan, and gaps in current knowledge will be considered, along with future directions to better define how aromatase might guide learning and memory from early development through the geriatric period. Better understanding the importance of E2 synthesis on neurobehavioral responses at various ages will likely aid in the discovery of therapeutic strategies to prevent potential cognitive deficits, including Alzheimer's Disease, in individuals treated with AI or those possessing CYP19 gene polymorphisms, as well as cognitive effects of normal aging that may be related to changes in brain aromatase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S. Rosenfeld
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurobehavioral Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Cheryl S. Rosenfeld
| | - Dusti A. Shay
- Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Victoria J. Vieira-Potter
- Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Victoria J. Vieira-Potter
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Zhao Y, He L, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Liu Z, Xing F, Liu M, Feng Z, Li W, Zhang J. Estrogen receptor alpha and beta regulate actin polymerization and spatial memory through an SRC-1/mTORC2-dependent pathway in the hippocampus of female mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 174:96-113. [PMID: 28789972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2017] [Revised: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aging-related decline of estrogens, especially 17β-estradiol (E2), has been shown to play an important role in the impairment of learning and memory in dementias, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we first demonstrated decreases in E2 signaling (aromatase, classic estrogen receptor ERα and ERβ and their coactivator SRC-1), mTORC2 signaling (Rictor and phospho-AKTser473) and actin polymerization (phospho-Cofilin, Profilin-1 and the F-actin/G-actin ratio) in the hippocampus of old female mice compared with those levels detected in the adult hippocampus. We then showed that ERα and ERβ antagonists induced a significant decrease in SRC-1, mTORC2 signaling, actin polymerization, and CA1 spine density, as well as impairments of learning and memory; however, ovariectomy-induced changes of these parameters could be significantly reversed by treatment with ER agonists. We further showed that expression of SRC-1, mTORC2 signaling and actin polymerization could be upregulated by E2 treatment, and the effects of E2 were blocked by the ER antagonists but mimicked by the agonists. We also showed that the lentivirus-mediated SRC-1 knockdown significantly inhibited the agonist-activated mTORC2 signaling and actin polymerization, and the lentivirus-mediated Rictor knockdown also significantly inhibited the agonist-activated actin polymerization. Finally, we demonstrated that the ERα and ERβ antagonists induced a disruption in actin polymerization and an impairment of spatial memory, which were rescued by activation of mTORC2. Taken together, the above results clearly demonstrated an mTORC2-dependent regulation of actin polymerization that contributed to the effects of ERα and ERβ on spatial learning, which may provide a novel target for the prevention and treatment of E2-related dementia in the aged population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Li He
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jikai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Fangzhou Xing
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, Key Laboratory of Eco-Environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Ziqi Feng
- Cadet Brigade, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei Li
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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Zhao Y, Yu Y, Zhang Y, He L, Qiu L, Zhao J, Liu M, Zhang J. Letrozole regulates actin cytoskeleton polymerization dynamics in a SRC-1 dependent manner in the hippocampus of mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 167:86-97. [PMID: 27866972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the hippocampus, local estrogens (E2) derived from testosterone that is catalyzed by aromatase play important roles in the regulation of hippocampal neural plasticity, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The actin cytoskeleton contributes greatly to hippocampal synaptic plasticity; however, whether it is regulated by local E2 and the related mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In this study, we first examined the postnatal developmental profiles of hippocampal aromatase and specific proteins responsible for actin cytoskeleton dynamics. Then we used aromatase inhibitor letrozole (LET) to block local E2 synthesis and examined the changes of these proteins and steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1), the predominant coactivator for steroid nuclear receptors. Finally, SRC-1 specific RNA interference was used to examine the effects of SRC-1 on the expression of these actin remodeling proteins. The results showed a V-type profile for aromatase and increased profiles for actin cytoskeleton proteins in both male and female hippocampus without obvious sex differences. LET treatment dramatically decreased the F-actin/G-actin ratio, the expression of Rictor, phospho-AKT (ser473), Profilin-1, phospho-Cofilin (Ser3), and SRC-1 in a dose-dependent manner. In vitro studies demonstrated that LET induced downregulation of these proteins could be reversed by E2, and E2 induced increase of these proteins were significantly suppressed by SRC-1 shRNA interference. These results for the first time clearly demonstrated that local E2 inhibition could induce aberrant actin polymerization; they also showed an important role of SRC-1 in the mediation of local E2 action on hippocampal synaptic plasticity by regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yanlan Yu
- Student Brigade, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Li He
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Linli Qiu
- School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Nursing, Sichuan Nursing Vocational College, Chengdu 610100, China
| | - Jikai Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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Qiu L, Zhao Y, Guo Q, Zhang Y, He L, Li W, Zhang J. Dose-dependent regulation of steroid receptor coactivator-1 and steroid receptors by testosterone propionate in the hippocampus of adult male mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 156:23-31. [PMID: 26607693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Androgens have been proposed to play important roles in the regulation of hippocampus function either directly, through the androgen receptor (AR), or indirectly, through estrogen receptors (ERs), after aromatization into estradiol. Steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) is present in the hippocampus of several species, and its expression is regulated by development and aging, as well as by orchidectomy and aromatase inhibitor letrozole administration, while ovariectomy only transiently downregulated hippocampal SRC-1. However, whether the expression of hippocampal SRC-1 can be directly regulated by testosterone, the principal male sex hormone, remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the expression of hippocampal SRC-1 after orchidectomy and testosterone treatment using immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. We found that while hippocampal SRC-1 was significantly downregulated by orchidectomy (ORX), its expression was rescued by treatment with testosterone in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, we noticed that the decreased expression of hippocampal AR, ERs and the synaptic proteins GluR-1 and PSD-95 induced by ORX was also rescued by testosterone treatment in a dose-dependent manner. However, we found that hippocampal membrane estrogen receptor GPR30 and dendritic spine marker spinophilin were not altered by ORX or testosterone treatment. Together, the above results provided the first direct evidence for the androgenic regulation on hippocampal SRC-1, indicating that SRC-1 may be a direct target of androgenic regulation on the hippocampus. Furthermore, because AR and ERs can be differentially regulated by testosterone, and the transcriptional activity requires the involvement of local SRC-1, and considering the complicated regulatory pathway of each individual receptor, the converged hub regulator SRC-1 of these nuclear receptor networks is worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linli Qiu
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Filed Nursing, School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Li He
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Filed Nursing, School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Filed Nursing, School of Nursing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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Brain REST/NRSF Is Not Only a Silent Repressor but Also an Active Protector. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:541-550. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9658-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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