1
|
Pouladvand N, Azarnia M, Zeinali H, Fathi R, Tavana S. An overview of different methods to establish a murine premature ovarian failure model. Animal Model Exp Med 2024. [PMID: 39219374 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF)is defined as the loss of normal ovarian function before the age of 40 and is characterized by increased gonadotropin levels and decreased estradiol levels and ovarian reserve, often leading to infertility. The incomplete understanding of the pathogenesis of POF is a major impediment to the development of effective treatments for this disease, so the use of animal models is a promising option for investigating and identifying the molecular mechanisms involved in POF patients and developing therapeutic agents. As mice and rats are the most commonly used models in animal research, this review article considers studies that used murine POF models. In this review based on the most recent studies, first, we introduce 10 different methods for inducing murine POF models, then we demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of each one, and finally, we suggest the most practical method for inducing a POF model in these animals. This may help researchers find the method of creating a POF model that is most appropriate for their type of study and suits the purpose of their research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Negar Pouladvand
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Azarnia
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadis Zeinali
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Tavana
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Milosevic A, Milosevic K, Zivkovic A, Lavrnja I, Savic D, Bjelobaba I, Janjic MM. Alterations in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis as a Response to Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Dark Agouti Rats of Both Sexes. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1020. [PMID: 39199407 PMCID: PMC11352252 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system, usually diagnosed during the reproductive period. Both MS and its commonly used animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), exhibit sex-specific features regarding disease progression and disturbances in the neuroendocrine and endocrine systems. This study investigates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response of male and female Dark Agouti rats during EAE. At the onset of EAE, Crh expression in the hypothalamus of both sexes is decreased, while males show reduced plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone levels. Adrenal gland activity is increased during EAE in both males and females, as evidenced by enlarged adrenal glands and increased StAR gene and protein expression. However, only male rats show increased serum and adrenal corticosterone levels, and an increased volume of the adrenal cortex. Adrenal 3β-HSD protein and progesterone levels are elevated in males only. Serum progesterone levels of male rats are also increased, although testicular progesterone levels are decreased during the disease, implying that the adrenal gland is the source of elevated serum progesterone levels in males. Our results demonstrate a sex difference in the response of the HPA axis at the adrenal level, with male rats showing a more pronounced induction during EAE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marija M. Janjic
- Department for Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Sinisa Stankovic”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.M.); (K.M.); (A.Z.); (I.L.); (D.S.); (I.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rossi A, Simeoli C, Pivonello R, Salerno M, Rosano C, Brunetti B, Strisciuglio P, Colao A, Parenti G, Melis D, Derks TGJ. Endocrine involvement in hepatic glycogen storage diseases: pathophysiology and implications for care. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024; 25:707-725. [PMID: 38556561 PMCID: PMC11294274 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-024-09880-2] [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] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic glycogen storage diseases constitute a group of disorders due to defects in the enzymes and transporters involved in glycogen breakdown and synthesis in the liver. Although hypoglycemia and hepatomegaly are the primary manifestations of (most of) hepatic GSDs, involvement of the endocrine system has been reported at multiple levels in individuals with hepatic GSDs. While some endocrine abnormalities (e.g., hypothalamic‑pituitary axis dysfunction in GSD I) can be direct consequence of the genetic defect itself, others (e.g., osteopenia in GSD Ib, insulin-resistance in GSD I and GSD III) may be triggered by the (dietary/medical) treatment. Being aware of the endocrine abnormalities occurring in hepatic GSDs is essential (1) to provide optimized medical care to this group of individuals and (2) to drive research aiming at understanding the disease pathophysiology. In this review, a thorough description of the endocrine manifestations in individuals with hepatic GSDs is presented, including pathophysiological and clinical implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rossi
- Section of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Chiara Simeoli
- Dipartmento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia ed Andrologia, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartmento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia ed Andrologia, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Rosano
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Brunetti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", Section of Pediatrics, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Pietro Strisciuglio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartmento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia ed Andrologia, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Parenti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Daniela Melis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", Section of Pediatrics, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Terry G J Derks
- Section of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Thomas DG. Prolonged glucocorticoid administration affects oocyte morphology in cats (Felis catus) undergoing an ovarian stimulation protocol. Theriogenology 2023; 208:77-87. [PMID: 37302246 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While captivity-related stress and the associated rise in baseline glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations have been linked to ovarian quiescence in some felid species, no study has examined the effects of elevated GC on oocyte quality. This study examined the effects of exogenous GC administration on the ovarian response and oocyte quality of domestic cats after an ovarian stimulation protocol. Entire mature female cats were divided into treatment (n = 6) and control (n = 6) groups. Cats in the GC treatment (GCT) group were given 1 mg kg-1 oral prednisolone daily from Day 0-45. All cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 progesterone orally from Day 0-37, before treatment with 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth on Day 40, followed by 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30 h after the hCG treatment. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30 and 40 (prior to eCG treatment), 80 h after eCG treatment, and on Day 45 for cortisol, glucose, prednisolone, oestradiol, and progesterone analysis. Cortisol concentrations did not differ between treatment groups throughout the study. Mean glucose concentrations were higher in the GCT cats (P = 0.004). Prednisolone was undetectable in all samples. Oestradiol and progesterone concentrations confirmed that the eCG treatment stimulated follicular activity and ovulation in all cats. Following ovariohysterectomy, the ovarian responses were graded (1 = excellent, 4 = poor) and oocytes retrieved from the oviducts. Each oocyte was given a total oocyte score (TOS: using an 9-point scale, 8 = best) based on four parameters: oocyte morphology, size, ooplasm uniformity and granularity, and zona pellucida (ZP) thickness and variation. Ovulation was confirmed in all cats, with a mean of 10.5 ± 1.1 ovulations per cat. Ovarian mass, ovarian response, number of ovulations, and oocyte recovery did not differ between groups. Oocyte diameter did not differ between the groups, but the ZP was thinner in the GCT group (3.1 ± 0.3 μm vs. 4.1 ± 0.3 μm, P = 0.03). The TOS was similar between treatment and control cats, but the ooplasm grade was lower (1.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, P = 0.01) and there was a tendency for ZP grade to be poorer (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2; P = 0.08) in the treatment group. In conclusion, the GC treatment resulted in morphological changes to oocytes collected following ovarian stimulation. Whether these changes would affect fertility warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Kevanne McGlade
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bhaumik S, Lockett J, Cuffe J, Clifton VL. Glucocorticoids and Their Receptor Isoforms: Roles in Female Reproduction, Pregnancy, and Foetal Development. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1104. [PMID: 37626990 PMCID: PMC10452123 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and associated changes in circulating levels of glucocorticoids are integral to an organism's response to stressful stimuli. Glucocorticoids acting via glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) play a role in fertility, reproduction, placental function, and foetal development. GRs are ubiquitously expressed throughout the female reproductive system and regulate normal reproductive function. Stress-induced glucocorticoids have been shown to inhibit reproduction and affect female gonadal function by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis at each level. Furthermore, during pregnancy, a mother's exposure to prenatal stress or external glucocorticoids can result in long-lasting alterations to the foetal HPA and neuroendocrine function. Several GR isoforms generated via alternative splicing or translation initiation from the GR gene have been identified in the mammalian ovary and uterus. The GR isoforms identified include the splice variants, GRα and GRβ, and GRγ and GR-P. Glucocorticoids can exert both stimulatory and inhibitory effects and both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions in the ovary, in vitro. In the placenta, thirteen GR isoforms have been identified in humans, guinea pigs, sheep, rats, and mice, indicating they are conserved across species and may be important in mediating a differential response to stress. Distinctive responses to glucocorticoids, differential birth outcomes in pregnancy complications, and sex-based variations in the response to stress could all potentially be dependent on a particular GR expression pattern. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the structure and function of the GR in relation to female fertility and reproduction and discusses the changes in the GR and glucocorticoid signalling during pregnancy. To generate this overview, an extensive non-systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with a focus on original research articles, meta-analyses, and previous review papers addressing the subject. This review integrates the current understanding of GR variants and their roles in glucocorticoid signalling, reproduction, placental function, and foetal growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sreeparna Bhaumik
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
| | - Jack Lockett
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane 4102, Australia
| | - James Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia;
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mohanty N, San T, Bell S, Jalla R, Williams J, Fordjour I, Siddiquee N, Gavrilova-Jordan L, Carbone L, Elam R. Initial presentation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis as urethral mass mimicking urethral cancer: A case report. Case Rep Womens Health 2023; 37:e00498. [PMID: 36968550 PMCID: PMC10034382 DOI: 10.1016/j.crwh.2023.e00498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a type of vasculitis in which granulomas deposit in small and medium-size vessels causing inflammation. It frequently affects the respiratory tract, both upper and lower tracts. Glomerulonephritis commonly occurs as well, and other systems can be affected such as the integumentary system and peripheral nervous system. Rarely, urogenital signs and symptoms are present. This report describes a case of a 19-year-old woman who presented with lower urinary tract symptoms and a urethral mass and was subsequently diagnosed with GPA. She responded well to treatment with corticosteroids, rituximab, and avacopan. This case highlights the importance of considering alternative diagnoses when a young woman presents with refractory urinary symptoms. It also highlights fertility issues relative to treatment of GPA that are of interest to the practicing obstetrician/gynecologist.
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen F, Hao L, Zheng K, Zhu S, Dai Z, Shi W, Wang X, Li X, Yang X, Zhao Q. Potential influence of COVID-19 and dexamethasone on the reproductive system: what we know and can expect. HUM FERTIL 2022:1-12. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2142919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Lanting Hao
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Kai Zheng
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Shiheng Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zhiqing Dai
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Wenhao Shi
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xinya Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xinyuan Yang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alemany M. The Roles of Androgens in Humans: Biology, Metabolic Regulation and Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11952. [PMID: 36233256 PMCID: PMC9569951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are an important and diverse group of steroid hormone molecular species. They play varied functional roles, such as the control of metabolic energy fate and partition, the maintenance of skeletal and body protein and integrity and the development of brain capabilities and behavioral setup (including those factors defining maleness). In addition, androgens are the precursors of estrogens, with which they share an extensive control of the reproductive mechanisms (in both sexes). In this review, the types of androgens, their functions and signaling are tabulated and described, including some less-known functions. The close interrelationship between corticosteroids and androgens is also analyzed, centered in the adrenal cortex, together with the main feedback control systems of the hypothalamic-hypophysis-gonads axis, and its modulation by the metabolic environment, sex, age and health. Testosterone (T) is singled out because of its high synthesis rate and turnover, but also because age-related hypogonadism is a key signal for the biologically planned early obsolescence of men, and the delayed onset of a faster rate of functional losses in women after menopause. The close collaboration of T with estradiol (E2) active in the maintenance of body metabolic systems is also presented Their parallel insufficiency has been directly related to the ravages of senescence and the metabolic syndrome constellation of disorders. The clinical use of T to correct hypoandrogenism helps maintain the functionality of core metabolism, limiting excess fat deposition, sarcopenia and cognoscitive frailty (part of these effects are due to the E2 generated from T). The effectiveness of using lipophilic T esters for T replacement treatments is analyzed in depth, and the main problems derived from their application are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marià Alemany
- Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Diagonal, 635, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain;
- Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xiang Y, Jiang L, Gou J, Sun Y, Zhang D, Xin X, Song Z, Huang J. Chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced mouse ovarian insufficiency by interrupting lipid homeostasis in the ovary. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:933674. [PMID: 36158217 PMCID: PMC9493201 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.933674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian insufficiency results from a number of disorders, and a certain causal relationship between psychological stress and ovarian insufficiency has been reported, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In our study, C57BL/6J female mice were subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), and depression-like mice were selected and identified according to the behavioral tests. The defective ovarian follicle development, low 17 β-estradiol (E2), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, which were consistent with the clinical characteristics of ovarian insufficiency, indicated that depression-like mice may be used to assess the effects of psychological stress on female reproductive function. To investigate a possible mechanism, lipid homeostasis of the ovary was detected by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, and the decreased abundance of cholesteryl ester (CE 24:4) was supported to be associated with the downregulated E2. Moreover, granulosa cells did undergo more apoptosis in response to psychological stress, which was caused by downregulated Bcl2 and Bcl2/Bax in granulosa cells. Additionally, the disorder of cell death and growth-related pathways in depression-like mouse ovaries was confirmed by RNA-seq analysis. Taken together, this study will provide a better understanding of the female reproductive problem under psychological stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Xiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Junjie Gou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Qingdao Women and Children’s Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yibo Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongyu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xigeng Xin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center Hospital of Yantai, Yantai, China
| | - Zhenhua Song
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaojiao Huang, ; Zhenhua Song,
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaojiao Huang, ; Zhenhua Song,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Perrott M, Thomas DG. Exogenous glucocorticoid treatment affects Sertoli cell load and epididymal sperm quality in domestic cats (Felis catus). Theriogenology 2022; 189:20-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
11
|
Edens C. Early Sexual Health and Reproductive Implications in Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2021; 48:91-112. [PMID: 34798961 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2021.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive review of reproductive health subtopics, including puberty, menarche, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gynecologic cancers as they pertain to patients with pediatric rheumatic diseases and those who care for them. Rheumatic disease medications and their effect on reproductive health across childhood and adolescence are also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuoghi Edens
- Department of Pediatrics, Section Pediatric Rheumatology, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, C104-A, MC5044, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, C104-A, MC5044, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Phumsatitpong C, Wagenmaker ER, Moenter SM. Neuroendocrine interactions of the stress and reproductive axes. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100928. [PMID: 34171353 PMCID: PMC8605987 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction is controlled by a sequential regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The HPG axis integrates multiple inputs to maintain proper reproductive functions. It has long been demonstrated that stress alters fertility. Nonetheless, the central mechanisms of how stress interacts with the reproductive system are not fully understood. One of the major pathways that is activated during the stress response is the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In this review, we discuss several aspects of the interactions between these two neuroendocrine systems to offer insights to mechanisms of how the HPA and HPG axes interact. We have also included discussions of other systems, for example GABA-producing neurons, where they are informative to the overall picture of stress effects on reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chayarndorn Phumsatitpong
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Elizabeth R Wagenmaker
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ogo FM, Siervo GEML, de Moraes AMP, Machado KGDB, Scarton SRDS, Guimarães ATB, Cecchini AL, Simão ANC, Mathias PCDF, Fernandes GSA. Extended light period in the maternal circadian cycle impairs the reproductive system of the rat male offspring. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2021; 12:595-602. [PMID: 33109301 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in the circadian cycle are known to cause physiological disorders in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axes in adult individuals. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate whether exposure of pregnant rats to constant light can alter the reproductive system development of male offspring. The dams were divided into two groups: a light-dark group (LD), in which pregnant rats were exposed to an LD photoperiod (12 h/12 h) and a light-light (LL) group, in which pregnant rats were exposed to a photoperiod of constant light during the gestation period. After birth, offspring from both groups remained in the normal LD photoperiod (12 h/12 h) until adulthood. One male of each litter was selected and, at adulthood (postnatal day (PND) 90), the trunk blood was collected to measure plasma testosterone levels, testes and epididymis for sperm count, oxidative stress and histopathological analyses, and the spermatozoa from the vas deferens to perform the morphological and motility analyses. Results showed that a photoperiod of constant light caused a decrease in testosterone levels, epididymal weight and sperm count in the epididymis, seminiferous tubule diameter, Sertoli cell number, and normal spermatozoa number. Histopathological damage was also observed in the testes, and stereological alterations, in the LL group. In conclusion, exposure to constant light during the gestational period impairs the reproductive system of male offspring in adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Mithie Ogo
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Eloisa Munhoz Lion Siervo
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Praxedes de Moraes
- Department of Biotechnology, Genetics and Cell Biology, State University of Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Katia Gama de Barros Machado
- Department of Biotechnology, Genetics and Cell Biology, State University of Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Suellen Ribeiro da Silva Scarton
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Alessandra Lourenço Cecchini
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Andréa Name Colado Simão
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Analysis and Toxicology, Health Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
d’Angelo DM, Di Donato G, Breda L, Chiarelli F. Growth and puberty in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2021; 19:28. [PMID: 33712046 PMCID: PMC7953722 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-021-00521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in children, with an annual incidence of 2-20 cases per 100,000 and a prevalence of 16-150 per 100,000. It is associated with several complications that can cause short-term or long-term disability and reduce the quality of life. Among these, growth and pubertal disorders play an important role. Chronic inflammatory conditions are often associated with growth failure ranging from slight decrease in height velocity to severe forms of short stature. The prevalence of short stature in JIA varies from 10.4% in children with polyarticular disease to 41% of patients with the systemic form, while oligoarthritis is mostly associated with localized excessive bone growth of the affected limb, leading to limb dissymmetry. The pathogenesis of growth disorders is multifactorial and includes the role of chronic inflammation, long-term use of corticosteroids, undernutrition, altered body composition, delay of pubertal onset or slow pubertal progression. These factors can exert a systemic effect on the GH/IGF-1 axis and on the GnRH-gonadotropin-gonadic axis, or a local influence on the growth plate homeostasis and function. Although new therapeutic options are available to control inflammation, there are still 10-20% of patients with severe forms of the disease who show continuous growth impairment, ending in a short final stature. Moreover, delayed puberty is associated with a reduction in the peak bone mass with the possibility of concomitant or future bone fragility. Monitoring of puberty and bone health is essential for a complete health assessment of adolescents with JIA. In these patients, an assessment of the pubertal stage every 6 months from the age of 9 years is recommended. Also, linear growth should be always evaluated considering the patient's bone age. The impact of rhGH therapy in children with JIA is still unclear, but it has been shown that if rhGH is added at high dose in a low-inflammatory condition, post steroids and on biologic therapy, it is able to favor a prepubertal growth acceleration, comparable with the catch-up growth response in GH-deficient patients. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the pathogenesis of puberty and growth disorders in children with JIA, which can help the pediatrician to properly and timely assess the presence of growth and pubertal disorders in JIA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Di Donato
- grid.412451.70000 0001 2181 4941Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Luciana Breda
- grid.412451.70000 0001 2181 4941Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wen L, Li R, Wang J, Yi J. The reproductive stress hypothesis. Reproduction 2020; 158:R209-R218. [PMID: 31677601 PMCID: PMC6892456 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, we propose the reproductive stress hypothesis that describes the pregnant females response to reproductive events based upon the activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and sympathetic adrenomedullary system. The main components of the reproductive stress hypothesis can be summarized as follows: (1) events unique to reproduction including empathema, pregnancy, parturition and lactation cause non-specific responses in females, called active reproductive stress; (2) the fetus is a special stressor for pregnant females where endocrine hormones, including corticotropin-releasing hormones and fetal glucocorticoids secreted by the fetus and placenta, enter the maternal circulatory system, leading to another stress response referred to as passive reproductive stress and (3) response to uterine tension and intrauterine infection is the third type of stress, called fetal intrauterine stress. Appropriate reproductive stress is a crucial prerequisite in normal reproductive processes. By contrast, excessive or inappropriate reproductive stress may result in dysfunctions of the reproductive system, such as compromised immune function, leading to susceptibility to disease. The novel insights of the reproductive stress hypothesis have important implications for deciphering the pathogenesis of certain diseases in pregnant animals, including humans, which in turn may be applied to preventing and treating their occurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wen
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongfang Li
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji Wang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jine Yi
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Parker CG, Cheung E. Metabolic control of teleost reproduction by leptin and its complements: Understanding current insights from mammals. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 292:113467. [PMID: 32201232 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is expensive. Hence, reproductive physiology is sensitive to an array of endogenous signals that provide information on metabolic and nutritional sufficiency. Although metabolic gating of reproductive function in mammals, as evidenced by studies demonstrating delayed puberty and perturbed fertility, has long been understood to be a function of energy sufficiency, an understanding of the endocrine regulators of this relationship have emerged only within recent decades. Peripheral signals including leptin and cortisol have long been implicated in the physiological integration of metabolism and reproduction. Recent studies have begun to explore possible roles for these two hormones in the regulation of reproduction in teleost fishes, as well as a role for leptin as a catabolic stress hormone. In this review, we briefly explore the reproductive actions of leptin and cortisol in mammals and teleost fishes and possible role of both hormones as putative modulators of the reproductive axis during stress events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Coltan G Parker
- Neuroscience Program, Beckman Institute of Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 405 N Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Eugene Cheung
- Department of Biological Sciences, David Clark Labs, 100 Brooks Avenue, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mollaioli D, Ciocca G, Limoncin E, Di Sante S, Gravina GL, Carosa E, Lenzi A, Jannini EAF. Lifestyles and sexuality in men and women: the gender perspective in sexual medicine. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:10. [PMID: 32066450 PMCID: PMC7025405 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0557-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual health is strictly related with general health in both genders. In presence of a sexual dysfunction, the expert in sexual medicine aims to discover the specific weight of the physical and psychological factors can cause or con-cause the sexual problem. At the same time, a sexual dysfunction can represent a marker of the future development of a Non-communicable diseases (NCDss) as cardiovascular or metabolic diseases.In the evaluation phase, the sexual health specialist must focus on these aspects, focusing especially on the risk and protective factors that could impact on both male and female sexuality.This article presents a review of researches concerning healthy and unhealthy lifestyles and their contribute in the development of sexual quality of life in a gender-dependent manner.Among the unhealthy lifestyle, obesity contributes mostly to the development of sexual dysfunctions, due to its negative impact on cardiovascular and metabolic function. Tobacco smoking, alcohol - substance abuse and chronic stress lead to the development of sexual dysfunction in a med-long term.In order to guarantee a satisfying sexual quality of life, sexual health specialists have the responsibility to guide the patient through the adoption of healthy lifestyles, such as avoiding drugs, smoke and excessive alcohol, practicing a regular physical activity, following a balanced diet and use stress-management strategies, even before proposing both pharmaco- and/or psychotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Mollaioli
- grid.6530.00000 0001 2300 0941Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Ciocca
- grid.6530.00000 0001 2300 0941Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Limoncin
- grid.6530.00000 0001 2300 0941Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Di Sante
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza - University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161 Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Gravina
- grid.158820.60000 0004 1757 2611Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito 2), L’Aquila, 67100 Italy
| | - Eleonora Carosa
- grid.158820.60000 0004 1757 2611Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito 2), L’Aquila, 67100 Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza - University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161 Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhang Z, Tang J, Di R, Liu Q, Wang X, Gan S, Zhang X, Zhang J, Chen W, Hu W, Chu M. Identification of Prolificacy-Related Differentially Expressed Proteins from Sheep (Ovis aries) Hypothalamus by Comparative Proteomics. Proteomics 2019; 19:e1900118. [PMID: 31136077 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201900118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction, as a physiologically complex process, can significantly affect the development of the sheep industry. However, a lack of overall understanding to sheep fecundity has long blocked the progress in sheep breeding and husbandry. In the present study, the aim is to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) from hypothalamus in sheep without FecB mutation in two comparison groups: polytocous (PF) versus monotocous (MF) sheep at follicular phase and polytocous (PL) versus monotocous (ML) sheep at luteal phase. Totally 5058 proteins are identified in sheep hypothalamus, where 22 in PF versus MF, and 39 proteins in PL versus ML are differentially expressed, respectively. A functional analysis is then conducted including Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis to reveal the potential roles of these DEPs. The proteins ENSOARP00000020097, ENSOARP00000006714, growth hormone (GH), histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4), and 5'-3' exoribonuclease 2 (XRN2) in PF versus MF, and bcl-2-associated athanogene 4 (BAG4), insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R), hydroxysteroid 11-beta dehydrogenase 1 (HSD11B1), and transthyretin (TTR) in PL versus ML appear to modulate reproduction, presumably by influencing the activities of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This study provides an alternative method to identify DEPs associated with sheep prolificacy from the hypothalamus. The mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD013822.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangbiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jishun Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China.,Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shangquan Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, 832000, China
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Shanghai Applied Protein Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kao KT, Denker M, Zacharin M, Wong SC. Pubertal abnormalities in adolescents with chronic disease. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 33:101275. [PMID: 31047817 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pubertal disorders in the context of chronic disease especially in those with chronic inflammatory disorders or those requiring prolonged periods of treatment with glucocorticoid are common reasons for referral to the paediatric endocrine clinic. Disorders of puberty are also common in adolescents with disability requiring management by paediatric endocrinologists. In these adolescents, impaired skeletal development is also observed and this can be associated with fragility fractures. Chronic inflammation, glucocorticoid and sub-optimal nutrition all impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal axis, and can also impact on skeletal development locally by their effects on the growth plate and bone. Addressing pubertal disorders is important to ensure adolescents with chronic disease are matched with their peers, promote adequate bone mass accrual and linear growth. Careful discussion with primary clinicians, the young person and the family is needed when instituting endocrine therapies to address puberty and manage bone health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K T Kao
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - M Denker
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - M Zacharin
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - S C Wong
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Andrews CJ, Thomas DG, Yapura J, Potter MA. Reproductive biology of the 38 extant felid species: a review. Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Andrews
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - David G. Thomas
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Murray A. Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Acevedo-Rodriguez A, Kauffman AS, Cherrington BD, Borges CS, Roepke TA, Laconi M. Emerging insights into hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis regulation and interaction with stress signalling. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30. [PMID: 29524268 PMCID: PMC6129417 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction and fertility are regulated via hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Control of this reproductive axis occurs at all levels, including the brain and pituitary, and allows for the promotion or inhibition of gonadal sex steroid secretion and function. In addition to guiding proper gonadal development and function, gonadal sex steroids also act in negative- and positive-feedback loops to regulate reproductive circuitry in the brain, including kisspeptin neurones, thereby modulating overall HPG axis status. Additional regulation is also provided by sex steroids made within the brain, including neuroprogestins. Furthermore, because reproduction and survival need to be coordinated and balanced, the HPG axis is able to modulate (and be modulated by) stress hormone signalling, including cortiscosterone, from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This review covers recent data related to the neural, hormonal and stress regulation of the HPG axis and emerging interactions between the HPG and HPA axes, focusing on actions at the level of the brain and pituitary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Acevedo-Rodriguez
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A S Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - B D Cherrington
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - C S Borges
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - T A Roepke
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Laconi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET), Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Ambientales, Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
A comparison of testosterone and cortisol levels between gay fathers and non-fathers: A preliminary investigation. Physiol Behav 2018; 193:69-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
23
|
Breckenridge CB, Foradori CD, Coder PS, Simpkins JW, Sielken RL, Handa RJ. Changes in Sensitivity to the Effects of Atrazine on the Luteinizing Hormone Surge in Female Sprague-Dawley Rats after Repeated Daily Doses: Correlation with Liver Enzyme Expression. Birth Defects Res 2018; 110:246-258. [PMID: 29134775 PMCID: PMC5884089 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrazine suppression of the LH surge slowly develops over time and peaks after 4 days; sensitivity to atrazine decreases after 8 or 14 days of dosing. Adaptation of the LH response was correlated with increased phase I and phase II liver enzyme activity/expression. METHODS The effect of atrazine on the LH surge was evaluated in female Sprague-Dawley rats administered 100 mg/kg/day atrazine by gavage for 1, 2, 3, or 4 consecutive days or 6.5, 50, or 100 mg/kg/day atrazine for 4, 8, or 14 days. RESULTS No statistically significant effects of atrazine were seen on peak plasma LH or LH area under the curve (AUC) after one, two, or three doses of 100 mg/kg/day. Four daily doses of 50 or 100 mg/kg atrazine significantly reduced peak LH and LH AUCs, whereas 6.5 mg/kg/day had no effect. After 8 or 14 days of treatment, statistically significantly reduced peak LH and LH AUC were observed in the 100 mg/kg/day dose group, but not in the 6.5 or 50 mg/kg/day dose groups, although significantly reduced LH was observed in one sample 9 hr after lights-on in the 50 mg/kg/day dose group on day 14. The number of days of treatment required to achieve a significant suppression of the LH surge is consistent with the repeat-dose pharmacokinetics of the chlorotriazines. CONCLUSION The apparent adaptation to the effect of atrazine on the LH surge after 8 or 14 days may be related to the induction of phase I or, more likely, phase II metabolism observed in this study after 8 days, or to a decreased sensitivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or an homeostatic adaption of the effect of atrazine on the LH surge mechanism. Birth Defects Research 110:246-258, 2018. © 2017 The Authors. Birth Defects Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Chad D. Foradori
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
| | | | - James W. Simpkins
- Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | | | - Robert J. Handa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kwak BK, Lee SH. Evaluation of Newly Developed Chemical Castration Method: Changes in Hormone Gene Expression of Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis. Dev Reprod 2017; 21:307-315. [PMID: 29082346 PMCID: PMC5651697 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2017.21.3.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Surgical castration (also known as orchidectomy, ORX) has been frequently
performed to avoid uncontrolled breeding. However, it has some serious
disadvantages. Several laboratories have developed chemical castration methods,
using bilateral intratesticular injection (BITI) of simple chemical solutions.
The present study was undertaken to compare the effects of ORX and of hypertonic
saline BITI on the androgen-sensitive tissues such as pituitary and
hypothalamus. Serum testosterone (T) levels of ORX animals and hypertonic saline
BITI animals (SAL) after 4 weeks of the manipulations exhibited significantly
drops as compared with the levels of intact animals (Intact:ORX:SAL = 7.74±
1.31:1.34±0.19:1.28±0.18 ng/ml, p<0.001). Both ORX and BITI
method induced similar stimulatory effects on the pituitary gonadotropin
subunits and hypothalamic KiSS-1 gene expressions. In contrast, the effects of
ORX and hypertonic saline BITI on hypothalamic GnRH gene expression were
different from these gene expressions, shown an inverse relationship between the
two groups (Intact:ORX:SAL = 1:0.45±0.06:1:2.07±0.41:1.51±0.37 AU; ORX,
p<0.001; SAL, p<0.05). In
conclusion, we provided evidence that hypertonic saline BITI method has
equivalent efficacy of T depletion to surgical castration in rats. The present
study suggests the hypertonic saline BITI could be a promising substitute to
conventional surgical castration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Byung Kuk Kwak
- Department of Life Science, Sangmyung University, Seoul 03016,
Korea
| | - Sung-Ho Lee
- Department of Life Science, Sangmyung University, Seoul 03016,
Korea
- Corresponding Author : Sung-Ho Lee, Ph.D.,
Department of Life Science, Sangmyung University, Hongjmoon-2 gil 20,
Jongrho-Gu, Seoul 03016, Republic of Korea. Tel: +82-2-2287-5139, Fax:
+82-2-2287-0070, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wong EM, Lehman A, Acott P, Gillis J, Metzger DL, Sirrs S. Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism in Males with Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1. JIMD Rep 2017; 36:79-84. [PMID: 28160246 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2016_38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glycogen storage disease type 1 is an autosomal recessive disorder with an incidence of 1 in 100,000. Long-term complications include chronic blood glucose lability, lactic academia, short stature, osteoporosis, delayed puberty, gout, progressive renal insufficiency, systemic or pulmonary hypertension, hepatic adenomas at risk for malignant transformation, anemia, vitamin D deficiency, hyperuricemic nephrocalcinosis, inflammatory bowel syndrome (type 1b), hypertriglyceridemia, and irregular menstrual cycles. We describe hypogonadotropic hypogonadism as a novel complication in glycogen storage disease (GSD) type 1. Case Studies and Methods: Four unrelated patients with GSD 1a (N = 1) and 1b (N = 3) were found to have hypogonadotropic hypogonadism diagnosed at different ages. Institutional Research Ethics Board approval was obtained as appropriate. Participant consent was obtained. A retrospective chart review was performed and clinical symptoms and results of investigations summarized as a case series. RESULTS All patients were confirmed biochemically to have low luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), and correspondingly low total testosterone. Clinical symptoms of hypogonadism varied widely. Investigations for other causes of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were unremarkable. In addition, all patients were found to have disproportionately low bone mineral density at the lumbar spine compared to the hip. Common to all patients was erratic metabolic control, including recurrent hypoglycemia and elevated lactate levels. DISCUSSION Recurrent elevations in cortisol in response to hypoglycemia may be the underlying pathology leading to suppression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release. Incorporating clinical and/or biochemical screening of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis may be important in the management of this disease. Testosterone therapy however needs to be carefully considered because of the risk of hepatic adenomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn M Wong
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Philip Acott
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jane Gillis
- Division of Biochemical Disease, BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Daniel L Metzger
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sandra Sirrs
- Division of Endocrinology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Gordon and Leslie Diamond Centre, Adult Metabolic Diseases Clinic, 2775 Laurel St., Level 4, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5Z 1M9.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kindermann C, Narayan EJ, Hero JM. Does physiological response to disease incur cost to reproductive ecology in a sexually dichromatic amphibian species? Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2016; 203:220-226. [PMID: 27712921 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2016.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that the disease chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has contributed to amphibian declines worldwide. The impact of Bd varies, with some species being more susceptible to infection than others. Recent evidence has shown that Bd can have sub-lethal effects, whereby increases in stress hormones have been associated with infection. Could this increased stress response, which is a physiological adaptation that provides an increased resilience against Bd infection, potentially be a trade-off with important life-history traits such as reproduction? We studied this question in adult male frogs of a non-declining species (Litoria wilcoxii). Frogs were sampled for (1) seasonal hormone (testosterone and corticosterone), color and disease profiles, (2) the relationship between disease infection status and hormone levels or dorsal color, (3) subclinical effects of Bd by investigating disease load and hormone level, and (4) reproductive and stress hormone relationships independent of disease. Testosterone levels and color score varied seasonally (throughout the spring/summer months) while corticosterone levels remained stable. Frogs with high Bd prevalence had significantly higher corticosterone levels and lower testosterone levels compared to uninfected frogs, and no differences in color were observed. There was a significant positive correlation between disease load and corticosterone levels, and a significant negative relationship between disease load and testosterone. Our field data provides novel evidence that increased physiological stress response associated with Bd infection in wild frogs, could suppress reproduction by down-regulating gonadal hormones in amphibians, however the impacts on reproductive output is yet to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kindermann
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - Edward J Narayan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, QLD 4222, Australia; School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Jean-Marc Hero
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, QLD 4222, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abolins-Abols M, Hope SF, Ketterson ED. Effect of acute stressor on reproductive behavior differs between urban and rural birds. Ecol Evol 2016; 6:6546-6555. [PMID: 27777728 PMCID: PMC5058526 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The life‐history trade‐off between self‐maintenance and reproduction posits that investment in one function decreases investment in the other. Manipulating the costs and benefits of functions involved in a trade‐off may alter this interaction. Here we ask whether investment in self‐maintenance during a stress response alters territorial behavior in wild Dark‐eyed Juncos and whether rural and urban birds, which are known to differ in the magnitude of the stress response (greater in rural), also differ in the degree to which stress reduces territorial behavior. In rural and urban habitats, we measured territorial behavior using song playback, followed by either an acute stressor (capture and collection of a blood sample) or a nonstressful control situation. The following day, we again measured territorial behavior, predicting greater reduction in territorial behavior in individuals exposed to the stressor but a lesser reduction in territorial behavior in the urban as compared to the rural environment. We further assessed individual and population differences in response to stressors by measuring flight initiation distance, breath rate, and corticosterone levels in the blood. The rural population had a higher physiological and behavioral stress response than the urban population, and acute capture stress had a lasting (24 h) negative effect on territorial behavior, but only in the rural habitat. However, individual‐level differences in measures of the stress response did not explain variation in the impact of stress on territorial behavior. Our findings show that stressors can have a negative effect on territorial behavior, but that this effect may differ between populations that vary in their stress ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sydney F Hope
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Virginia Tech Blacksburg Virginia
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Camille Melón L, Maguire J. GABAergic regulation of the HPA and HPG axes and the impact of stress on reproductive function. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 160:196-203. [PMID: 26690789 PMCID: PMC4861672 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes are regulated by GABAergic signaling at the level of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, respectively. Under basal conditions, activity of CRH and GnRH neurons are controlled in part by both phasic and tonic GABAergic inhibition, mediated by synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptors (GABAARs), respectively. For CRH neurons, this tonic GABAergic inhibition is mediated by extrasynaptic, δ subunit-containing GABAARs. Similarly, a THIP-sensitive tonic GABAergic current has been shown to regulate GnRH neurons, suggesting a role for δ subunit-containing GABAARs; however, this remains to be explicitly demonstrated. GABAARs incorporating the δ subunit confer neurosteroid sensitivity, suggesting a potential role for neurosteroid modulation in the regulation of the HPA and HPG axes. Thus, stress-derived neurosteroids may contribute to the impact of stress on reproductive function. Interestingly, excitatory actions of GABA have been demonstrated in both CRH neurons at the apex of control of the HPA axis and in GnRH neurons which mediate the HPG axis, adding to the complexity for the role of GABAergic signaling in the regulation of these systems. Here we review the effects that stress has on GnRH neurons and HPG axis function alongside evidence supporting GABAARs as a major interface between the stress and reproductive axes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laverne Camille Melón
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Boston, MA 02111, United States
| | - Jamie Maguire
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Boston, MA 02111, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Harris BN, Carr JA. The role of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis in mediating predator-avoidance trade-offs. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 230-231:110-42. [PMID: 27080550 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining energy balance and reproducing are important for fitness, yet animals have evolved mechanisms by which the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal (HPA/HPI) axis can shut these activities off. While HPA/HPI axis inhibition of feeding and reproduction may have evolved as a predator defense, to date there has been no review across taxa of the causal evidence for such a relationship. Here we review the literature on this topic by addressing evidence for three predictions: that exposure to predators decreases reproduction and feeding, that exposure to predators activates the HPA/HPI axis, and that predator-induced activation of the HPA/HPI axis inhibits foraging and reproduction. Weight of evidence indicates that exposure to predator cues inhibits several aspects of foraging and reproduction. While the evidence from fish and mammals supports the hypothesis that predator cues activate the HPA/HPI axis, the existing data in other vertebrate taxa are equivocal. A causal role for the HPA axis in predator-induced suppression of feeding and reproduction has not been demonstrated to date, although many studies report correlative relationships between HPA activity and reproduction and/or feeding. Manipulation of HPA/HPI axis signaling will be required in future studies to demonstrate direct mediation of predator-induced inhibition of feeding and reproduction. Understanding the circuitry linking sensory pathways to their control of the HPA/HPI axis also is needed. Finally, the role that fear and anxiety pathways play in the response of the HPA axis to predator cues is needed to better understand the role that predators have played in shaping anxiety related behaviors in all species, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Breanna N Harris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - James A Carr
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Luo E, Stephens SBZ, Chaing S, Munaganuru N, Kauffman AS, Breen KM. Corticosterone Blocks Ovarian Cyclicity and the LH Surge via Decreased Kisspeptin Neuron Activation in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1187-99. [PMID: 26697722 PMCID: PMC4769373 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Stress elicits activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which leads to enhanced circulating glucocorticoids, as well as impaired gonadotropin secretion and ovarian cyclicity. Here, we tested the hypothesis that elevated, stress-levels of glucocorticoids disrupt ovarian cyclicity by interfering with the preovulatory sequence of endocrine events necessary for the LH surge. Ovarian cyclicity was monitored in female mice implanted with a cholesterol or corticosterone (Cort) pellet. Cort, but not cholesterol, arrested cyclicity in diestrus. Subsequent studies focused on the mechanism whereby Cort stalled the preovulatory sequence by assessing responsiveness to the positive feedback estradiol signal. Ovariectomized mice were treated with an LH surge-inducing estradiol implant, as well as Cort or cholesterol, and assessed several days later for LH levels on the evening of the anticipated surge. All cholesterol females showed a clear LH surge. At the time of the anticipated surge, LH levels were undetectable in Cort-treated females. In situ hybridization analyses the anteroventral periventricular nucleus revealed that Cort robustly suppressed the percentage of Kiss1 cells coexpressing cfos, as well as reduced the number of Kiss1 cells and amount of Kiss1 mRNA per cell, compared with expression in control brains. In addition, Cort blunted pituitary expression of the genes encoding the GnRH receptor and LHβ, indicating inhibition of gonadotropes during the blockage of the LH surge. Collectively, our findings support the hypothesis that physiological stress-levels of Cort disrupts ovarian cyclicity, in part, through disruption of positive feedback mechanisms at both the hypothalamic and pituitary levels which are necessary for generation of the preovulatory LH surge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Shannon B Z Stephens
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Sharon Chaing
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Nagambika Munaganuru
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Uterine glucocorticoid receptors are critical for fertility in mice through control of embryo implantation and decidualization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:15166-71. [PMID: 26598666 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1508056112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the well-characterized role of the sex steroid receptors in fertility and reproduction, organs of the female reproductive tract are also regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These endocrine organs are sensitive to stress-mediated actions of glucocorticoids, and the mouse uterus contains high levels of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Although the presence of GR in the uterus is well established, uterine glucocorticoid signaling has been largely ignored in terms of its reproductive and/or immunomodulatory functions on fertility. To define the direct in vivo function of glucocorticoid signaling in adult uterine physiology, we generated a uterine-specific GR knockout (uterine GR KO) mouse using the PR(cre) mouse model. The uterine GR KO mice display a profound subfertile phenotype, including a significant delay to first litter and decreased pups per litter. Early defects in pregnancy are evident as reduced blastocyst implantation and subsequent defects in stromal cell decidualization, including decreased proliferation, aberrant apoptosis, and altered gene expression. The deficiency in uterine GR signaling resulted in an exaggerated inflammatory response to induced decidualization, including altered immune cell recruitment. These results demonstrate that GR is required to establish the necessary cellular context for maintaining normal uterine biology and fertility through the regulation of uterine-specific actions.
Collapse
|
32
|
Breckenridge CB, Sawhney Coder P, Tisdel MO, Simpkins JW, Yi KD, Foradori CD, Handa RJ. Effect of Age, Duration of Exposure, and Dose of Atrazine on Sexual Maturation and the Luteinizing Hormone Surge in the Female Sprague-Dawley Rat. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 104:204-17. [PMID: 26439775 PMCID: PMC4992940 DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.21154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Atrazine (ATZ) was administered daily by gavage to pregnant female Sprague Dawley rats at doses of 0, 6.25, 25 or 50 mg/kg/day, either during gestation, lactation and post‐weaning (G/L/PW cohort) to F1 generation female offspring or only from postnatal day (PND 21) until five days after sexual maturation (vaginal opening) when the estrogen‐primed, luteinizing hormone (LH) surge was evaluated (PW cohort). Additional subgroups of F1 females received the vehicle or ATZ from PND 21–133 or from PND 120–133. Slight reductions in fertility and the percentage of F1 generation pups surviving to PND 21 in the gestationally exposed 50 mg/kg dose group were accompanied by decreased food intake and body weight of dams and F1 generation offspring. The onset of puberty was delayed in of the F1 generation G/L/PW females at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg/day. F1 generation females in the PW high‐dose ATZ group also experienced a delay in the onset of puberty. ATZ had no effect on peak LH or LH AUC in ovariectomized rats 5 days after sexual maturation, irrespective of whether the F1 generation females were treated from gestation onward or only peripubertally. There was no effect of ATZ treatment on the estrous cycle, peak LH or LH AUC of F1 generation females exposed from gestation through to PND 133 or only for two weeks from PND 120–133. These results indicate that developing females exposed to ATZ are not more sensitive compared to animals exposed to ATZ as young adults
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles B Breckenridge
- Department of Toxicology and Health Sciences, Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | | | - Merrill O Tisdel
- Department of Toxicology and Health Sciences, Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - James W Simpkins
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of West Virginia, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Kun Don Yi
- Department of Toxicology and Health Sciences, Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - Chad D Foradori
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Robert J Handa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona.,College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Legan SJ, Peng X, Yun C, Duncan MJ. Effect of arousing stimuli on circulating corticosterone and the circadian rhythms of luteinizing hormone (LH) surges and locomotor activity in estradiol-treated ovariectomized (ovx+EB) Syrian hamsters. Horm Behav 2015; 72:28-38. [PMID: 25958077 PMCID: PMC4466083 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In most proestrous hamsters, novel wheel exposure phase advances activity rhythms and blocks the preovulatory LH surge, which occurs 2h earlier the next day. Because wheel immobilization does not prevent these effects we hypothesized that arousal alone blocks and phase advances the LH surge. Ovariectomized (ovx) hamsters received a jugular vein cannula and estradiol benzoate (EB) or vehicle was injected sc. The next day (Day 1), at zeitgeber time (ZT) 4-5 (ZT 12 = lights off), after obtaining a blood sample, each hamster was exposed to constant darkness (DD), and either remained in her home cage or was transferred to a new cage and exposed to a running wheel or a 2-hour arousal paradigm. Blood samples were obtained in dim red light and activity was recorded hourly until ~ZT 10-11 on Days 1 and 2. For the next 1-2 weeks, activity was monitored in DD. Plasma LH and corticosterone were assessed by RIA. Novel wheel exposure or arousal at ZT 4 greatly attenuated the Day 1 LH surge in ovx+EB hamsters, and phase advanced the Day 2 LH surge by about 2h. In proestrous hamsters, novel wheel exposure led to a prolonged (>2h) increase in corticosterone levels only when LH surges were blocked. Phase advances in activity rhythms were enhanced by estradiol and arousal. The results suggest that estradiol modulates the effectiveness of non-photic stimuli. The role of the increased activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis associated with novel wheel-induced attenuation of LH surges in ovx+EB hamsters remains to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S J Legan
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
| | - X Peng
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
| | - C Yun
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
| | - M J Duncan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ycaza Herrera A, Mather M. Actions and interactions of estradiol and glucocorticoids in cognition and the brain: Implications for aging women. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:36-52. [PMID: 25929443 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Menopause involves dramatic declines in estradiol production and levels. Importantly, estradiol and the class of stress hormones known as glucocorticoids exert countervailing effects throughout the body, with estradiol exerting positive effects on the brain and cognition, glucocorticoids exerting negative effects on the brain and cognition, and estradiol able to mitigate negative effects of glucocorticoids. Although the effects of these hormones in isolation have been extensively studied, the effects of estradiol on the stress response and the neuroprotection offered against glucocorticoid exposure in humans are less well known. Here we review evidence suggesting that estradiol-related protection against glucocorticoids mitigates stress-induced interference with cognitive processes. Animal and human research indicates that estradiol-related mitigation of glucocorticoid damage and interference is one benefit of estradiol supplementation during peri-menopause or soon after menopause. The evidence for estradiol-related protection against glucocorticoids suggests that maintaining estradiol levels in post-menopausal women could protect them from stress-induced declines in neural and cognitive integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ycaza Herrera
- University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089, United States.
| | - Mara Mather
- University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kaiser K, Devito J, Jones CG, Marentes A, Perez R, Umeh L, Weickum RM, McGovern KE, Wilson EH, Saltzman W. Effects of anthropogenic noise on endocrine and reproductive function in White's treefrog, Litoria caerulea. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 3:cou061. [PMID: 27293682 PMCID: PMC4778486 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cou061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization is a major driver of ecological change and comes with a suite of habitat modifications, including alterations to the local temperature, precipitation, light and noise regimes. Although many recent studies have investigated the behavioural and ecological ramifications of urbanization, physiological work in this area has lagged. We tested the hypothesis that anthropogenic noise is a stressor for amphibians and that chronic exposure to such noise leads to reproductive suppression. In the laboratory, we exposed male White's treefrogs, Litoria caerulea, to conspecific chorus noise either alone or coupled with pre-recorded traffic noise nightly for 1 week. Frogs presented with anthropogenic noise had significantly higher circulating concentrations of corticosterone and significantly decreased sperm count and sperm viability than did control frogs. These results suggest that in addition to having behavioural and ecological effects, anthropogenic change might alter physiology and Darwinian fitness. Future work should integrate disparate fields such as behaviour, ecology and physiology to elucidate fully organisms' responses to habitat change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Kaiser
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Julia Devito
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Caitlin G. Jones
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Adam Marentes
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Rachel Perez
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Lisa Umeh
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Regina M. Weickum
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Kathryn E. McGovern
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Emma H. Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Wendy Saltzman
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kaiser K, Devito J, Jones CG, Marentes A, Perez R, Umeh L, Weickum RM, McGovern KE, Wilson EH, Saltzman W. Reproductive and immune effects of chronic corticosterone treatment in male White's treefrogs, Litoria caerulea. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 3:cov022. [PMID: 27293707 PMCID: PMC4778456 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cov022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphibian populations are declining globally. The potential contribution of glucocorticoid hormones to these declines has received little attention, but chronic elevation of glucocorticoids has been linked to a suite of negative outcomes across vertebrate taxa. Recently, chronic environmental stress has been associated with precipitous declines in sperm count and sperm viability in White's treefrogs (Litoria caerulea), but the mechanism remains unknown. In order to determine whether corticosterone is responsible for suppressing reproductive and immune function in this species, we elevated circulating concentrations of corticosterone in 10 male captive-bred frogs via transdermal application for 7 days. We compared sperm count, sperm viability, splenic cell count and circulating leucocyte counts in corticosterone-treated frogs with those in untreated control frogs. Chronic application of exogenous corticosterone led to supraphysiological circulating concentrations of corticosterone, but had no effect on sperm count or viability. However, corticosterone-treated frogs demonstrated a significant decrease in circulating eosinophils, which are immune cells implicated in fighting a variety of pathogens, including extracellular parasites. These findings suggest that although chronic elevation of circulating corticosterone is not necessarily associated with reproductive suppression in this species, it may cause immunosuppression. Thus, chronic glucocorticoid elevations in amphibians might enhance susceptibility to infection with pathogens and parasites, and their potential contributions to global population declines warrant further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Kaiser
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
- Corresponding author: Department of Biology, Pomona College, Claremont, CA 91711, USA. Tel: +1 909 607 0880.
| | - Julia Devito
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Caitlin G. Jones
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Adam Marentes
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Rachel Perez
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Lisa Umeh
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Regina M. Weickum
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Kathryn E. McGovern
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Emma H. Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Wendy Saltzman
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Geraghty AC, Kaufer D. Glucocorticoid Regulation of Reproduction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2015. [PMID: 26215998 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2895-8_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is well accepted that stress, measured by increased glucocorticoid secretion, leads to profound reproductive dysfunction. In times of stress, glucocorticoids activate many parts of the fight or flight response, mobilizing energy and enhancing survival, while inhibiting metabolic processes that are not necessary for survival in the moment. This includes reproduction, an energetically costly procedure that is very finely regulated. In the short term, this is meant to be beneficial, so that the organism does not waste precious energy needed for survival. However, long-term inhibition can lead to persistent reproductive dysfunction, even if no longer stressed. This response is mediated by the increased levels of circulating glucocorticoids, which orchestrate complex inhibition of the entire reproductive axis. Stress and glucocorticoids exhibits both central and peripheral inhibition of the reproductive hormonal axis. While this has long been recognized as an issue, understanding the complex signaling mechanism behind this inhibition remains somewhat of a mystery. What makes this especially difficult is attempting to differentiate the many parts of both of these hormonal axes, and new neuropeptide discoveries in the last decade in the reproductive field have added even more complexity to an already complicated system. Glucocorticoids (GCs) and other hormones within the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (as well as contributors in the sympathetic system) can modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis at all levels-GCs can inhibit release of GnRH from the hypothalamus, inhibit gonadotropin synthesis and release in the pituitary, and inhibit testosterone synthesis and release from the gonads, while also influencing gametogenesis and sexual behavior. This chapter is not an exhaustive review of all the known literature, however is aimed at giving a brief look at both the central and peripheral effects of glucocorticoids on the reproductive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Geraghty
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Retana-Márquez S, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Juárez-Rojas L, Aragón-Martínez A, Torres GR. Sexual behavior attenuates the effects of chronic stress in body weight, testes, sexual accessory glands, and plasma testosterone in male rats. Horm Behav 2014; 66:766-78. [PMID: 25236886 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether continuous sexual behavior could attenuate the effects of chronic stress on spermatogenesis, sexual glands, plasma testosterone and corticosterone in sexually experienced male rats. Rats were exposed to stress by immersion in cold water (ICW) daily for 20 or 50 consecutive days. Plasma testosterone and corticosterone, masculine sexual behavior, as well as the number of offspring, the epithelial area of seminiferous, prostatic and seminal glands were assessed. In stressed males, body and testicular weights decreased, male sexual behavior was disrupted, and adrenal weights increased. In males stressed for 50 days, prostate and seminal glands had lower weights compared with controls. Prostate and seminal epithelial areas also decreased in these males. Seminiferous tubules in testes from rats stressed for 20 or 50 days showed several degenerative signs, such as vacuoles in the basal epithelium, with picnotic indicia; moderate to severe exfoliation of degenerative germinal cells in the tubule lumen was also observed. In males stressed for 50 days a significant decrease in seminiferous epithelial area was observed from stages I-VIII, regardless of copulation. The litters from females that copulated with males stressed for 50 days decreased significantly. Chronic stress caused increase in plasma levels of corticosterone, which were higher in males stressed for 20 days than in males stressed for 50 days. Testosterone decreased in stressed males and it was lower in males stressed for 50 days. In stressed males allowed to copulate, body and testicular weights were similar to controls. Adrenal, seminal glands, and prostate weights, as well as epithelial areas of males stressed for 50 days allowed to copulate were also similar to controls. Corticosterone was lower than in males stressed for 50 days, but still higher than in controls. Testosterone in males stressed for 50 days and allowed to copulate was higher than in stressed males not allowed to copulate and control males without copulation, but still lower than in control copulating males. These results show that chronic stress causes germ cell loss in testes and a decrease in prostate and seminal epithelium, possibly as a result of testosterone decrease, affecting fertility. Continuous copulation can attenuate the effects of stress on testosterone levels and on the epithelial area in male sexual glands, but not on the seminiferous epithelium after 50 days of stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Retana-Márquez
- Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, San Rafael Atlixco 186, Mexico City, CP 09340, Mexico.
| | - R M Vigueras-Villaseñor
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Insurgentes Sur 3700-C, Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Mexico
| | - L Juárez-Rojas
- Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, San Rafael Atlixco 186, Mexico City, CP 09340, Mexico
| | - A Aragón-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico
| | - G Reyes Torres
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Insurgentes Sur 3700-C, Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Son YL, Ubuka T, Narihiro M, Fukuda Y, Hasunuma I, Yamamoto K, Belsham DD, Tsutsui K. Molecular basis for the activation of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone gene transcription by corticosterone. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1817-26. [PMID: 24552400 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-2076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The inhibitory effect of stress on reproductive function is potentially mediated by high concentrations of circulating glucocorticoids (GCs) acting via the GC receptor (GR). Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that inhibits gonadotropin secretion. GnIH may mediate stress-induced reproductive dysfunction. However, it is not yet known whether GC-bound GR is directly involved in GnIH transcription. Here, we demonstrated the localization of GR mRNA in GnIH neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of quail, suggesting that GC can directly regulate GnIH transcription. We next showed that 24 hours of treatment with corticosterone (CORT) increase GnIH mRNA expression in the quail diencephalon. We further investigated the mechanism of activation of GnIH transcription by CORT using a GnIH-expressing neuronal cell line, rHypoE-23, derived from rat hypothalamus. We found the expression of GR mRNA in rHypoE-23 cells and increased GnIH mRNA expression by 24 hours of CORT treatment. We finally characterized the promoter activity of rat GnIH gene stimulated by CORT. Through DNA deletion analysis, we identified a CORT-responsive region at 2000-1501 bp upstream of GnIH precursor coding region. This region included 2 GC response elements (GREs) at -1665 and -1530 bp. Mutation of -1530 GRE abolished CORT responsiveness. We also found CORT-stimulated GR recruitment at the GnIH promoter region containing the -1530 GRE. These results provide a putative molecular basis for transcriptional activation of GnIH under stress by demonstrating that CORT directly induces GnIH transcription by recruitment of GR to its promoter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- You Lee Son
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences (Y.L.S., T.U., M.N., Y.F., I.H., K.Y., K.T.), Department of Biology, Waseda University, and Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; and Departments of Physiology (D.D.B.), Medicine, and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, and Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A8
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Ahmed AA, Ma W, Ni Y, Wang S, Zhao R. Corticosterone in ovo modifies aggressive behaviors and reproductive performances through alterations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the chicken. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 146:193-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
41
|
Gojska NM, Belsham DD. Glucocorticoid receptor-mediated regulation of Rfrp (GnIH) and Gpr147 (GnIH-R) synthesis in immortalized hypothalamic neurons. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 384:23-31. [PMID: 24412804 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A novel RFamide peptide, gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) has emerged as a modulator of avian reproduction. However, the functional role of the mammalian homologue, RFRP-3 remains poorly understood. The RFRP-3 neuronal circuit is influenced by the stress axis. However, whether the Rfrp gene is under direct glucocorticoid (GC)-mediated transcriptional regulation, in the presence and absence of the gonadal steroid, 17β-estradiol, is unknown. We investigated the regulation of the Rfrp (GnIH) and Gpr147 (GnIH-R) transcripts by steroids in a novel hypothalamic Rfrp-expressing cell model, rHypoE-23. The GC agonist, dexamethasone increased Rfrp and Gpr147 mRNA levels. Dexamethasone acted directly on the nuclear GC receptor (GR) to mediate GC-dependent transcriptional changes, independently of de novo protein synthesis. 17β-estradiol had no significant effect on Rfrp or Gpr147 biosynthesis in these neurons. This suggests that Rfrp-expressing neurons serve as potential upstream mediators of stress-induced effects through GR-dependent mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Gojska
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Denise D Belsham
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Departments of Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Breen KM, Mellon PL. Influence of stress-induced intermediates on gonadotropin gene expression in gonadotrope cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 385:71-7. [PMID: 24012628 PMCID: PMC3942370 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite extensive investigation, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms whereby stress impacts fertility remains elusive. Since the 1930s, when Hans Selye popularized studying adaptations to stress (Selye, 1937), we have learned that compensatory mechanisms involve a complex interplay of neural and hormonal processes that allow various body functions to adjust to stress, in a coordinated manner. In terms of reproduction, the adjustment to a stressor interferes with integrated functioning at multiple levels of regulation--the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, gonads, and neural centers coordinating behavior. Various mediators are postulated to participate in reproductive suppression. These include catecholamines, cytokines, prostaglandins, endogenous opioid peptides, and hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This review focuses on one class of mediators, the glucocorticoids, and provides our views on the relevance and mode of action of this inhibitory intermediate within the anterior pituitary gonadotrope, as a potential cellular site whereby glucocorticoids contribute to stress-induced reproductive suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kellie M Breen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, United States.
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, United States
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zambrano E, Guzmán C, Rodríguez-González GL, Durand-Carbajal M, Nathanielsz PW. Fetal programming of sexual development and reproductive function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:538-549. [PMID: 24045010 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The recent growth of interest in developmental programming of physiological systems has generally focused on the cardiovascular system (especially hypertension) and predisposition to metabolic dysfunction (mainly obesity and diabetes). However, it is now clear that the full range of altered offspring phenotypes includes impaired reproductive function. In rats, sheep and nonhuman primates, reproductive capacity is altered by challenges experienced during critical periods of development. This review will examine available experimental evidence across commonly studied experimental species for developmental programming of female and male reproductive function throughout an individual's life-course. It is necessary to consider events that occur during fetal development, early neonatal life and prior to and during puberty, during active reproductive life and aging as reproductive performance declines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Zambrano
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México.
| | - Carolina Guzmán
- HIPAM, Unidad de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)/Hospital General de México, México
| | - Guadalupe L Rodríguez-González
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México
| | - Marta Durand-Carbajal
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México
| | - Peter W Nathanielsz
- Center for Pregnancy and Newborn Research, Department of Obstetrics, University of Texas Health Sciences Center San Antonio, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Maternal dexamethasone exposure during pregnancy in rats disrupts gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal development in the offspring. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 355:409-23. [PMID: 24374911 PMCID: PMC3921457 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1765-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The migration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons from the olfactory placode to the preoptic area (POA) from embryonic day 13 is important for successful reproduction during adulthood. Whether maternal glucocorticoid exposure alters GnRH neuronal morphology and number in the offspring is unknown. This study determines the effect of maternal dexamethasone (DEX) exposure on enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) driven by GnRH promoter neurons (TG-GnRH) in transgenic rats dual-labelled with GnRH immunofluorescence (IF-GnRH). The TG-GnRH neurons were examined in intact male and female rats at different postnatal ages, as a marker for GnRH promoter activity. Pregnant females were subcutaneously injected with DEX (0.1 mg/kg) or vehicle daily during gestation days 13–20 to examine the number of GnRH neurons in P0 male offspring. The total number of TG-GnRH neurons and TG-GnRH/IF-GnRH neuronal ratio increased from P0 and P5 stages to P47–52 stages, suggesting temporal regulation of GnRH promoter activity during postnatal development in intact rats. In DEX-treated P0 males, the number of IF-GnRH neurons decreased within the medial septum, organum vasculosom of the lamina terminalis (OVLT) and anterior hypothalamus. The percentage of TG-GnRH neurons with branched dendritic structures decreased in the OVLT of DEX-P0 males. These results suggest that maternal DEX exposure affects the number and dendritic development of early postnatal GnRH neurons in the OVLT/POA, which may lead to altered reproductive functions in adults.
Collapse
|
45
|
Whirledge S, Cidlowski JA. A role for glucocorticoids in stress-impaired reproduction: beyond the hypothalamus and pituitary. Endocrinology 2013; 154:4450-68. [PMID: 24064362 PMCID: PMC3836069 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In addition to the well-characterized role of the sex steroid receptors in regulating fertility and reproduction, reproductive events are also mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in response to an individual's environment. Glucocorticoid secretion in response to stress contributes to the well-characterized suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis through central actions in the hypothalamus and pituitary. However, both animal and in vitro studies indicate that other components of the reproductive system are also regulated by glucocorticoids. Furthermore, in the absence of stress, it appears that homeostatic glucocorticoid signaling plays a significant role in reproduction and fertility in all tissues comprising the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Indeed, as central regulators of the immune response, glucocorticoids are uniquely poised to integrate an individual's infectious, inflammatory, stress, nutritional, and metabolic status through glucocorticoid receptor signaling in target tissues. Endocrine signaling between tissues regulating the immune and stress response and those determining reproductive status provides an evolutionary advantage, facilitating the trade-off between reproductive investment and offspring fitness. This review focuses on the actions of glucocorticoids in tissues important for fertility and reproduction, highlighting recent studies that show glucocorticoid signaling plays a significant role throughout the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and characterizing these effects as permissive or inhibitory in terms of facilitating reproductive success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Whirledge
- NIEHS/NIH, MD F3-07, P.O. Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709.
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic stress is known to have negative effects on reproduction, but little is known about how it affects the sexual response cycle. The present study examined the relationship between chronic stress and sexual arousal and the mechanisms that mediate this relationship. AIM The aim of this study is to test the relationship between chronic stress and sexual arousal and identify mechanisms that may explain this relationship. We predicted that women experiencing high levels of chronic stress would show lower levels of genital arousal and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) and higher levels of cortisol and cognitive distraction compared with women with average levels of stress. METHODS Women who were categorized as high in chronic stress (high stress group; n=15) or average in chronic stress (average stress group; n=15) provided saliva samples and watched an erotic film while having their genital and psychological arousal measured. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Main outcome measures were vaginal pulse amplitude, psychological arousal, salivary cortisol, salivary DHEAS, and heart rate and compared them between women with high and average levels of chronic stress. RESULTS Women in the high stress group had lower levels of genital, but not psychological arousal, had higher levels of cortisol, and reported more distraction during the erotic film than women in the average stress group. The main predictor of decreased genital sexual arousal was participants' distraction scores. CONCLUSIONS High levels of chronic stress were related to lower levels of genital sexual arousal. Both psychological (distraction) and hormonal (increased cortisol) factors were related to the lower levels of sexual arousal seen in women high in chronic stress, but distraction was the only significant predictor when controlling for other variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Dawn Hamilton
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Chronic unpredictable stress decreases expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in mouse ovaries: relationship to oocytes developmental potential. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52331. [PMID: 23284991 PMCID: PMC3527516 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) was originally described in the nervous system but has been shown to be expressed in ovary tissues recently, acting as a paracrine/autocrine regulator required for developments of follicles and oocytes. Although it is generally accepted that chronic stress impairs female reproduction and decreases the expression of BDNF in limbic structures of central nervous system, which contributes to mood disorder. However, it is not known whether chronic stress affects oocytes developments, nor whether it affects expression of BDNF in ovary. Methods Mice were randomly assigned into control group, stressed group, BDNF-treated group and BDNF-treated stressed group. The chronic unpredictable mild stress model was used to produce psychosocial stress in mice, and the model was verified by open field test and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. The methods of immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to detect BDNF protein level and distribution. The number of retrieved oocytes, oocyte maturation, embryo cleavage and the rates of blastocyst formation after parthenogenetic activation were evaluated. Results Chronic unpredictable stress decreased the BDNF expression in antral follicles, but didn’t affect the BDNF expression in primordial, primary and secondary follicles. Chronic unpredictable stress also decreased the number of retrieved oocytes and the rate of blastocyst formation, which was rescued by exogenous BDNF treatment. Conclusion BDNF in mouse ovaries may be related to the decreased number of retrieved oocytes and impaired oocytes developmental potential induced by chronic unpredictable stress.
Collapse
|
48
|
Sleep deprivation alters rat ventral prostate morphology, leading to glandular atrophy: a microscopic study contrasted with the hormonal assays. J Biomed Biotechnol 2012; 2012:285938. [PMID: 22927719 PMCID: PMC3423984 DOI: 10.1155/2012/285938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effect of 96 h paradoxical sleep deprivation (PSD) and 21-day sleep restriction (SR) on prostate morphology using stereological assays in male rats. After euthanasia, the rat ventral prostate was removed, weighed, and prepared for conventional light microscopy. Microscopic analysis of the prostate reveals that morphology of this gland was altered after 96 h of PSD and 21 days of SR, with the most important alterations occurring in the epithelium and stroma in the course of both procedures compared with the control group. Both 96 h PSD and 21-day SR rats showed lower serum testosterone and higher corticosterone levels than control rats. The significance of our result referring to the sleep deprivation was responsible for deep morphological alterations in ventral prostate tissue, like to castration microscopic modifications. This result is due to the marked alterations in hormonal status caused by PSD and SR.
Collapse
|
49
|
Breen KM, Thackray VG, Hsu T, Mak-McCully RA, Coss D, Mellon PL. Stress levels of glucocorticoids inhibit LHβ-subunit gene expression in gonadotrope cells. Mol Endocrinol 2012; 26:1716-31. [PMID: 22851703 DOI: 10.1210/me.2011-1327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased glucocorticoid secretion is a common response to stress and has been implicated as a mediator of reproductive suppression upon the pituitary gland. We utilized complementary in vitro and in vivo approaches in the mouse to investigate the role of glucocorticoids as a stress-induced intermediate capable of gonadotrope suppression. Repeated daily restraint stress lengthened the ovulatory cycle of female mice and acutely reduced GnRH-induced LH secretion and synthesis of LH β-subunit (LHβ) mRNA, coincident with increased circulating glucocorticoids. Administration of a stress level of glucocorticoid, in the absence of stress, blunted LH secretion in ovariectomized female mice, demonstrating direct impairment of reproductive function by glucocorticoids. Supporting a pituitary action, glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is expressed in mouse gonadotropes and treatment with glucocorticoids reduces GnRH-induced LHβ expression in immortalized mouse gonadotrope cells. Analyses revealed that glucocorticoid repression localizes to a region of the LHβ proximal promoter, which contains early growth response factor 1 (Egr1) and steroidogenic factor 1 sites critical for GnRH induction. GR is recruited to this promoter region in the presence of GnRH, but not by dexamethasone alone, confirming the necessity of the GnRH response for GR repression. In lieu of GnRH, Egr1 induction is sufficient for glucocorticoid repression of LHβ expression, which occurs via GR acting in a DNA- and dimerization-independent manner. Collectively, these results expose the gonadotrope as an important neuroendocrine site impaired during stress, by revealing a molecular mechanism involving Egr1 as a critical integrator of complex formation on the LHβ promoter during GnRH induction and GR repression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kellie M Breen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine/Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Soga T, Dalpatadu SL, Wong DW, Parhar IS. Neonatal dexamethasone exposure down-regulates GnRH expression through the GnIH pathway in female mice. Neuroscience 2012; 218:56-64. [PMID: 22626647 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic glucocorticoid (dexamethasone; DEX) treatment during the neonatal stage is known to affect reproductive activity. However, it is still unknown whether neonatal stress activates gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) synthesizing cells in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH), which could have pronounced suppressive action on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, leading to delayed pubertal onset. This study was designed to determine the effect of neonatal DEX (1.0mg/kg) exposure on reproductive maturation. Therefore, GnRH, GnIH and GnIH receptors, G-protein coupled receptors (GPR) 147 and GPR74 mRNA levels were measured using quantitative real-time PCR in female mice at postnatal (P) days 21, 30 and in estrus stage mice, aged between P45-50. DEX-treated females of P45-50 had delayed vaginal opening, and irregular estrus cycles and lower GnRH expression in the preoptic area (POA) when compared with age-matched controls. The expression levels of GPR147 and GPR74 mRNA in the POA increased significantly in DEX-treated female mice of P21 and P45-50 compared to controls. In addition, GPR147 and GPR74 mRNA expression was observed in laser captured single GnRH neurons in the POA. Although there was no difference in GnIH mRNA expression in the DMH, immunostained GnIH cell numbers in the DMH increased in DEX-treated females of P45-50 compared to controls. Taken together, the results show that the delayed pubertal onset could be due to the inhibition of GnRH gene expression after neonatal DEX treatment, which may be accounted for in part by the inhibitory signals from the up-regulated GnIH-GnIH receptor pathway to the POA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Soga
- Brain Research Institute, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Sunway Campus, 46150, Malaysia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|