1
|
Amirkhosravi L, Khaksari M, Sanjari M, Khorasani P. The nongenomic neuroprotective effects of estrogen, E2-BSA, and G1 following traumatic brain injury: PI3K/Akt and histopathological study. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2024; 45:1-15. [PMID: 38507353 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2023-0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies suggest that both genomic and nongenomic pathways are involved in mediating the salutary effects of steroids following traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study investigated the nongenomic effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) mediated by the PI3K/p-Akt pathway after TBI. METHODS Ovariectomized rats were apportioned to E2, E2-BSA (E2 conjugated to bovine serum albumin), G1 [G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor agonist (GPER)] or their vehicle was injected following TBI, whereas ICI (classical estrogen receptor antagonist), G15 (GPER antagonist), ICI + G15, and their vehicles were injected before the induction of TBI and injection of drugs. Diffuse TBI was induced by the Marmarou model. Evans blue (EBC, 5 h), brain water contents (BWC), histopathological changes, and brain PI3K and p-Akt protein expressions were measured 24 h after TBI. The veterinary comma scale (VCS) was assessed before and at different times after TBI. RESULTS The results showed a reduction in BWC and EBC and increased VCS in the E2, E2-BSA, and G1 groups. Also, E2, E2-BSA, and G1 reduced brain edema, inflammation, and apoptosis. The ICI and G15 inhibited the beneficial effects of E2, E2-BSA, and G1 on these parameters. All drugs, following TBI, prevented the reduction of brain PI3K/p-Akt expression. The individual or combined use of ICI and G15 eliminated the beneficial effects of E2, E2-BSA, and G1 on PI3K/p-Akt expressions. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicated that PI3K/p-Akt pathway plays a critical role in mediating the salutary effects of estradiol on histopathological changes and neurological outcomes following TBI, suggesting that GPER and classic ERs are involved in regulating the expression of PI3K/p-Akt.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, 48463 Kerman University of Medical Sciences , Kerman, Iran
| | - Mojgan Sanjari
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parisa Khorasani
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, 48463 Kerman University of Medical Sciences , Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Prengel TM, Brunne B, Habiballa M, Rune GM. Sexually differentiated microglia and CA1 hippocampal synaptic connectivity. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13276. [PMID: 37170708 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Microglia have been shown to sculpt postnatal circuitry from birth up to adulthood due to their role in both synapse formation, synaptic pruning, and the elimination of weak, redundant synapses. Microglia are differentiated in a sex-dependent manner. In this study, we tested whether sexual differentiation of microglia results in sex-dependent postnatal reorganization of CA1 synaptic connectivity in the hippocampus. The stereological counting of synapses in mice using electron microscopy showed a continuous rise in synapse density until the fourth week, followed by a plateau phase and loss of synapses from the eighth week onwards, with no difference between sexes. This course of alteration in synapse numbers did not differ between sexes. However, selectively, on postnatal day (P) 14 the density of synapses was significantly higher in the female than in the male hippocampus. Higher synapse density in females was paralleled by higher activity of microglia, as indicated by morphological changes, CD68 expression, and proximity of microglia to synaptic sites. In Thy1-GFP mice, consistent with increased synapse numbers, bouton density was also clearly increased in females at P14. At this time point, CD47 expression, the "don't eat me" signal of neurons, was similar in males and females. The decrease in bouton density thereafter in conjunction with increased synapse numbers argues for a role of microglia in the formation of multispine boutons (MSB). Our data in females at P14 support the regulatory role of microglia in synapse density. Sexual differentiation of microglia, however, does not substantially affect long-term synaptic reorganization in the hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim M Prengel
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bianka Brunne
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Moataz Habiballa
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Anti-Inflammatory Actions of G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER) and Brain-Derived Estrogen Following Cerebral Ischemia in Ovariectomized Rats. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010099. [PMID: 36671793 PMCID: PMC9855882 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Global cerebral ischemia can elicit rapid innate neuroprotective mechanisms that protect against delayed neuronal death. Brain-derived 17β-estradiol (BDE2), an endogenous neuroprotectant, is synthesized from testosterone by the enzyme aromatase (Aro) and is upregulated by brain ischemia and inflammation. Our recent study revealed that G1, a specific G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) agonist, exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic roles after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Herein, we aimed to elucidate whether G1 modulates the early inflammatory process and the potential underlying mechanisms in the ovariectomized rat hippocampal CA1 region. G1 was found to markedly reduce pro-inflammatory (iNOS, MHCII, and CD68) and to enhance anti-inflammatory (CD206, Arginase 1, IL1RA, PPARγ, and BDNF) markers after 1 and 3 days of reperfusion after GCI. Intriguingly, the neuroprotection of G1 was blocked by the Aro inhibitor, letrozole. Conversely, the GPER antagonist, G36, inhibited Aro-BDE2 signaling and exacerbated neuronal damage. As a whole, this work demonstrates a novel anti-inflammatory role of GPER, involving a synergistic mediation with BDE2 during the early stage of GCI.
Collapse
|
4
|
Involvement of the G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor-1 (GPER) Signaling Pathway in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Review. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022:10.1007/s10571-022-01301-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01301-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
5
|
Xu J, Zhou Y, Yan C, Wang X, Lou J, Luo Y, Gao S, Wang J, Wu L, Gao X, Shao A. Neurosteroids: A novel promise for the treatment of stroke and post-stroke complications. J Neurochem 2021; 160:113-127. [PMID: 34482541 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is the primary reason for death and disability worldwide, with few treatment strategies to date. Neurosteroids, which are natural molecules in the brain, have aroused great interest in the field of stroke. Neurosteroids are a kind of steroid that acts on the nervous system, and are synthesized in the mitochondria of neurons or glial cells using cholesterol or other steroidal precursors. Neurosteroids mainly include estrogen, progesterone (PROG), allopregnanolone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and vitamin D (VD). Most of the preclinical studies have confirmed that neurosteroids can decrease the risk of stroke, and improve stroke outcomes. In the meantime, neurosteroids have been shown to have a positive therapeutic significance in some post-stroke complications, such as epilepsy, depression, anxiety, cardiac complications, movement disorders, and post-stroke pain. In this review, we report the historical background, modulatory mechanisms of neurosteroids in stroke and post-stroke complications, and emphasize on the application prospect of neurosteroids in stroke therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Caochong Yan
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianyao Lou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Luo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Changxing Branch), Changxing, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shiqi Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Wu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangfu Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
From Menopause to Neurodegeneration-Molecular Basis and Potential Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168654. [PMID: 34445359 PMCID: PMC8395405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The impacts of menopause on neurodegenerative diseases, especially the changes in steroid hormones, have been well described in cell models, animal models, and humans. However, the therapeutic effects of hormone replacement therapy on postmenopausal women with neurodegenerative diseases remain controversial. The steroid hormones, steroid hormone receptors, and downstream signal pathways in the brain change with aging and contribute to disease progression. Estrogen and progesterone are two steroid hormones which decline in circulation and the brain during menopause. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which plays an import role in neuroprotection, is rapidly decreased in serum after menopause. Here, we summarize the actions of estrogen, progesterone, and IGF-1 and their signaling pathways in the brain. Since the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is higher in women than in men, the associations of steroid hormone changes and AD are emphasized. The signaling pathways and cellular mechanisms for how steroid hormones and IGF-1 provide neuroprotection are also addressed. Finally, the molecular mechanisms of potential estrogen modulation on N-methyl-d-aspartic acid receptors (NMDARs) are also addressed. We provide the viewpoint of why hormone therapy has inconclusive results based on signaling pathways considering their complex response to aging and hormone treatments. Nonetheless, while diagnosable AD may not be treatable by hormone therapy, its preceding stage of mild cognitive impairment may very well be treatable by hormone therapy.
Collapse
|
7
|
Amirkhosravi L, Khaksari M, Soltani Z, Esmaeili-Mahani S, Asadi Karam G, Hoseini M. E2-BSA and G1 exert neuroprotective effects and improve behavioral abnormalities following traumatic brain injury: The role of classic and non-classic estrogen receptors. Brain Res 2020; 1750:147168. [PMID: 33096091 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The role of classical and non-classical estrogen receptors (ERs) in mediating the neuroprotective effects of this hormone on brain edema and long-term behavioral disorders was evaluated after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Ovariectomized rats were divided as follows: E2 (17 β-estradiol), E2-BSA (E2 conjugated to bovine serum albumin), G1 [G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor agonist (GPER)] or their vehicle was injected following TBI, whereas ICI (classical estrogen receptor antagonist), G15 (GPER antagonist), ICI + G15, and their vehicle were injected before the induction of TBI and the injection of E2 and E2-BSA. Brain water (BWC) and Evans blue (EB) contents were measured 24 h and 5 h after TBI, respectively. Intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) were measured before and at different times after TBI. Locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, and spatial memory were assessed on days 3, 7, 14, and 21 after injury. E2, E2-BSA, and G1 prevented the increase of BWC and EB content after TBI, and these effects were inhibited by ICI and G15. ICI and G15 also inhibited the beneficial effects of E2, E2-BSA on ICP, as well as CPP, after trauma. E2, E2-BSA, and G1 prevented the cognitive deficiency and behavioral abnormalities induced by TBI. Similar to the above parameters, ICI and G15 also reversed this E2 and E2-BSA effects on days 3, 7, 14, and 21. Our findings indicated that the beneficial effects of E2-BSA and E2 were inhibited by both ICI and G15, suggesting that GPER and classic ERs were involved in mediating the long-term effects of E2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Neuroscience and Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Centers, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Zahra Soltani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeed Esmaeili-Mahani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Asadi Karam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Hoseini
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo H, Liu M, Zhang L, Wang L, Hou W, Ma Y, Ma Y. The Critical Period for Neuroprotection by Estrogen Replacement Therapy and the Potential Underlying Mechanisms. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:485-500. [PMID: 31976839 PMCID: PMC7457406 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200123165652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
17β-Estradiol (estradiol or E2) is a steroid hormone that has been broadly applied as a neuroprotective therapy for a variety of neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular disorders such as ischemic stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Several laboratory and clinical studies have reported that Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) had no effect against these diseases in elderly postmenopausal women, and at worst, increased their risk of onset and mortality. This review focuses on the growing body of data from in vitro and animal models characterizing the potential underlying mechanisms and signaling pathways that govern successful neuroprotection by ERT, including the roles of E2 receptors in mediating neuroprotection, E2 genomic regulation of apoptosis- related pathways, membrane-bound receptor-mediated non-genomic signaling pathways, and the antioxidant mechanisms of E2. Also discussed is the current evidence for a critical period of effective treatment with estrogen following natural or surgical menopause and the outcomes of E2 administration within an advantageous time period. The known mechanisms governing the duration of the critical period include depletion of E2 receptors, the switch to a ketogenic metabolic profile by neuronal mitochondria, and a decrease in acetylcholine that accompanies E2 deficiency. Also the major clinical trials and observational studies concerning postmenopausal Hormone Therapy (HT) are summarized to compare their outcomes with respect to neurological disease and discuss their relevance to the critical period hypothesis. Finally, potential controversies and future directions for this field are discussed throughout the review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yaqun Ma
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center to Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China; Tel: +86 010 66938152; E-mail: and Department of Anesthesiology, The Seventh Medical Center to Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100700, China; E-mail:
| | - Yulong Ma
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center to Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China; Tel: +86 010 66938152; E-mail: and Department of Anesthesiology, The Seventh Medical Center to Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100700, China; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Peng J, Zuo Y, Huang L, Okada T, Liu S, Zuo G, Zhang G, Tang J, Xia Y, Zhang JH. Activation of GPR30 with G1 attenuates neuronal apoptosis via src/EGFR/stat3 signaling pathway after subarachnoid hemorrhage in male rats. Exp Neurol 2019; 320:113008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
10
|
Roque C, Mendes-Oliveira J, Duarte-Chendo C, Baltazar G. The role of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 on neurological disorders. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100786. [PMID: 31513775 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) is a membrane-associated estrogen receptor (ER) associated with rapid estrogen-mediated effects. Over recent years GPER emerged has a potential therapeutic target to induce neuroprotection, avoiding the side effects elicited by the activation of classical ERs. The putative neuroprotection triggered by GPER selective activation was demonstrated in mood disorders, Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease of male and female in vivo rodent models. In others, like ischemic stroke, the results are contradictory and currently there is no consensus on the role played by this receptor. However, it seems clear that sex is a biological variable that may impact the results. The major objective of this review is to provide an overview about the physiological effects of GPER in the brain and its putative contribution in neurodegenerative disorders, discussing the data about the signaling pathways involved, as well as, the diverse effects observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Roque
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - J Mendes-Oliveira
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C Duarte-Chendo
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - G Baltazar
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Brandt N, Rune GM. Sex-dependency of oestrogen-induced structural synaptic plasticity: Inhibition of aromatase versus application of estradiol in rodents. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 52:2548-2559. [PMID: 31403726 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sex-dependent differences in learning and memory formation in humans have been frequently shown. The mechanisms underlying the formation and retention of memories are assumed to involve synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Estradiol was shown to effect synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus of rodents. The effects after exogenous application of estradiol to animals frequently produce inconsistent results, in particular, if sex is not considered in the studies. Recently we provided evidence that locally synthesized estradiol plays an essential role on synaptic connectivity in the hippocampus of females but not of male mice. In females, inhibition of local estradiol synthesis leads to synapse loss, which results from impairment of long-term potentiation and dephosphorylation of cofilin, and thereby the destabilization of postsynaptic dendritic spines. This sex-dependency was also seen in the classical aromatase knock-out mouse. Intriguingly, no differences between sexes have been found in a conditional forebrain-specific aromatase knock-out mouse. Altogether, the findings underscore the necessity of including 'Sex as a Biological Variable' in studies of sex steroid-induced synaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Brandt
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Estrogenic Regulation of Neuroprotective and Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms: Implications for Depression and Cognition. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-11355-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
13
|
Roque C, Mendes-Oliveira J, Baltazar G. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor activates cell type-specific signaling pathways in cortical cultures: relevance to the selective loss of astrocytes. J Neurochem 2019; 149:27-40. [PMID: 30570746 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Selective activation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor has been proposed to avoid some of the side effects elicited by the activation of classical estrogen receptors α and β. Although its contribution to neuroprotection triggered by estradiol in brain disorders has been explored, the results regarding ischemic stroke are contradictory, and currently, there is no consensus on the role that this receptor may play. The present study aimed to investigate the role of GPER in the ischemic insult. For that, primary cortical cultures exposed to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) were used as a model. Our results demonstrate that neuronal survival was strongly affected by the ischemic insult and concurrent GPER activation with G1 had no further impact. In contrast, OGD had a smaller impact on astrocytes survival but G1, alone or combined with OGD, promoted their apoptosis. This effect was prevented by the GPER antagonist G15. The results also show that ischemia did not change the expression levels of GPER in neurons and astrocytes. In this study, we also demonstrate that selective activation of GPER induced astrocyte apoptosis via the phospholipase C pathway and subsequent intracellular calcium rise, whereas in neurons, this effect was not observed. Taken together, this evidence supports a direct impact of GPER activity on the viability of astrocytes, which seems to be associated with the regulation of different signaling pathways in astrocytes and neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cláudio Roque
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | | | - Graça Baltazar
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Morrison HW, Filosa JA. Stroke and the neurovascular unit: glial cells, sex differences, and hypertension. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2019; 316:C325-C339. [PMID: 30601672 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00333.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A functional neurovascular unit (NVU) is central to meeting the brain's dynamic metabolic needs. Poststroke damage to the NVU within the ipsilateral hemisphere ranges from cell dysfunction to complete cell loss. Thus, understanding poststroke cell-cell communication within the NVU is of critical importance. Loss of coordinated NVU function exacerbates ischemic injury. However, particular cells of the NVU (e.g., astrocytes) and those with ancillary roles (e.g., microglia) also contribute to repair mechanisms. Epidemiological studies support the notion that infarct size and recovery outcomes are heterogeneous and greatly influenced by modifiable and nonmodifiable factors such as sex and the co-morbid condition common to stroke: hypertension. The mechanisms whereby sex and hypertension modulate NVU function are explored, to some extent, in preclinical laboratory studies. We present a review of the NVU in the context of ischemic stroke with a focus on glial contributions to NVU function and dysfunction. We explore the impact of sex and hypertension as modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors and the underlying cellular mechanisms that may underlie heterogeneous stroke outcomes. Most of the preclinical investigative studies of poststroke NVU dysfunction are carried out primarily in male stroke models lacking underlying co-morbid conditions, which is very different from the human condition. As such, the evolution of translational medicine to target the NVU for improved stroke outcomes remains elusive; however, it is attainable with further research.
Collapse
|
15
|
Roque C, Baltazar G. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) activation triggers different signaling pathways on neurons and astrocytes. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:2069-2070. [PMID: 31397335 PMCID: PMC6788241 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.262577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cláudio Roque
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Graça Baltazar
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sørvik IB, Solum EJ, Labba NA, Hansen TV, Paulsen RE. Differential effects of some novel synthetic oestrogen analogs on oxidative PC12 cell death caused by serum deprivation. Free Radic Res 2018; 52:273-287. [DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2018.1430363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene B. Sørvik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Johansson Solum
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils A. Labba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- PharmaTox Strategic Research Initiative, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond Vidar Hansen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild E. Paulsen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- PharmaTox Strategic Research Initiative, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Su Q, Wang Y, Yang X, Li XD, Qi YF, He XJ, Wang YJ. Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Apoptosis by Estrogen Protects Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Through the PI3 Kinase-Akt Signaling Pathway. J Cell Biochem 2017; 118:4568-4574. [PMID: 28485890 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate whether the cardioprotective effect of estrogen is mediated by inhibiting the apoptosis induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and to explore the underlying signaling pathway responsible for this effect. The effect of estrogen on ERS apoptosis, the mechanism responsible for that effect, and the ERS signaling pathways were examined in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and measured using Western blot, Hoechst stains and caspase-3 activity assay. In vitro, 10-8 mol/l estrogen directly inhibited the up-regulation of the ERS marker glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and ERS apoptosis marker C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). ERS was induced using the ERS inducer tunicamycin (TM, 10 µmol/l) or dithiothreitol (DTT, 2 mmol/l) in HUVECs. Estrogen can also decrease the apoptosis cells mediated by ERS, based on the results of Hoechst stains. Protein expression in the three main ERS signaling pathways was upregulated in TM- or DTT-induced HUVEC ERS. Increases in p-PERK/PERK were the most obvious, and estrogen significantly inhibited the upregulation of p-PERK/PERK, p-IRE1/IRE1, and ATF6. These inhibitory effects were abolished by specific estrogen receptor antagonists (ICI182, 780, and G15) and inhibitors of the E2 post-receptor signaling pathway, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002, p38-mitogen activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) inhibitor SB203580, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125 and extracellular signal-regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) inhibitor U0126; of these inhibitors, LY294002 was the most effective. Further experiments showed that when the PI3K pathway was blocked, the inhibitory effect of estrogen on ERS apoptosis was reduced. Estrogen can prevent HUVEC apoptosis by inhibiting the ERS apoptosis triggered by the PERK pathway, which may protect vascular endothelial cells and the cardiovascular system. The main mechanism responsible for ERS inhibition is the activation of the PI3K-Akt pathway for the activated estrogen receptor. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4568-4574, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, 061000, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Yong-Fen Qi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Bioactive Molecule, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Jing He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Yan-Jie Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100000, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Qu TT, Deng JX, Li RL, Cui ZJ, Wang XQ, Wang L, Deng JB. Stress injuries and autophagy in mouse hippocampus after chronic cold exposure. Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:440-446. [PMID: 28469659 PMCID: PMC5399722 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.202932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold exposure is an external stress factor that causes skin frostbite as well as a variety of diseases. Estrogen might participate in neuroprotection after cold exposure, but its precise mechanism remains unclear. In this study, mice were exposed to 10°C for 7 days and 0-4°C for 30 days to induce a model of chronic cold exposure. Results showed that oxidative stress-related c-fos and cyclooxygenase 2 expressions, MAP1LC3-labeled autophagic cells, Iba1-labeled activated microglia, and interleukin-1β-positive pyramidal cells were increased in the hippocampal CA1 area. Chronic cold exposure markedly elevated the levels of estrogen in the blood and the estrogen receptor, G protein-coupled receptor 30. These results indicate that neuroimmunoreactivity is involved in chronic cold exposure-induced pathological alterations, including oxidative stress, neuronal autophagy, and neuroimmunoreactivity. Moreover, estrogen exerts a neuroprotective effect on cold exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Qu
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China.,Nursing College, Henan Vocational College of Applied Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Jie-Xin Deng
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| | - Rui-Ling Li
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Cui
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Wang
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| | - Lai Wang
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| | - Jin-Bo Deng
- Institute of Neurobiology, College of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Grassi D, Lagunas N, Pinos H, Panzica G, Garcia-Segura LM, Collado P. NADPH-Diaphorase Colocalizes with GPER and Is Modulated by the GPER Agonist G1 in the Supraoptic and Paraventricular Nuclei of Ovariectomized Female Rats. Neuroendocrinology 2017; 104:94-104. [PMID: 26954778 DOI: 10.1159/000445190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide is produced in the brain by the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and carries out a wide range of functions by acting as a neurotransmitter-like molecule. Gonadal hormones are involved in the regulation of the brain nitrergic system. We have previously demonstrated that estradiol, via classical estrogen receptors (ERs), regulates NOS activity in the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei of the hypothalamus, acting through both ERα and ERβ. Magnocellular and parvocellular neurons in the SON and PVN also express the G protein-coupled ER (GPER). In this study, we have assessed whether GPER is also involved in the regulation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase in the SON and PVN. Adult female ovariectomized rats were treated with G1, a selective GPER agonist, or with G1 in combination with G15, a selective GPER antagonist. G1 treatment decreased NADPH-diaphorase expression in the SON and in all PVN subnuclei. The treatment with G1 + G15 effectively rescued the G1-dependent decrease in NADPH-diaphorase expression in both brain regions. In addition, the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, one of the kinases involved in the GPER-dependent intracellular signaling pathway and in NOS phosphorylation, was assessed in the same brain nuclei. Treatment with G1 significantly decreased the number of p-ERK 1/2-positive cells in the SON and PVN, while the treatment with G1 + G15 significantly recovered its number to control values. These findings suggest that the activation of GPER in the SON and PVN inhibits the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2, which induces a decrease in NADPH-diaphorase expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Grassi
- Department of Psychobiology, Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Liu Y, An S, Ward R, Yang Y, Guo XX, Li W, Xu TR. G protein-coupled receptors as promising cancer targets. Cancer Lett 2016; 376:226-39. [PMID: 27000991 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate an array of fundamental biological processes, such as growth, metabolism and homeostasis. Specifically, GPCRs are involved in cancer initiation and progression. However, compared with the involvement of the epidermal growth factor receptor in cancer, that of GPCRs have been largely ignored. Recent findings have implicated many GPCRs in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, invasion and metastasis. Moreover, GPCRs contribute to the establishment and maintenance of a microenvironment which is permissive for tumor formation and growth, including effects upon surrounding blood vessels, signaling molecules and the extracellular matrix. Thus, GPCRs are considered to be among the most useful drug targets against many solid cancers. Development of selective ligands targeting GPCRs may provide novel and effective treatment strategies against cancer and some anticancer compounds are now in clinical trials. Here, we focus on tumor related GPCRs, such as G protein-coupled receptor 30, the lysophosphatidic acid receptor, angiotensin receptors 1 and 2, the sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors and gastrin releasing peptide receptor. We also summarize their tissue distributions, activation and roles in tumorigenesis and discuss the potential use of GPCR agonists and antagonists in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Su An
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Richard Ward
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Yang Yang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Xiao-Xi Guo
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Wei Li
- Kidney Cancer Research, Diagnosis and Translational Technology Center of Yunnan Province, Department of Urology, The People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China.
| | - Tian-Rui Xu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Vaziri-Gohar A, Houston KD. GPER1-mediated IGFBP-1 induction modulates IGF-1-dependent signaling in tamoxifen-treated breast cancer cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 422:160-171. [PMID: 26690777 PMCID: PMC4742395 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, is a commonly prescribed adjuvant therapy for estrogen receptor-α (ERα)-positive breast cancer patients. To determine if extracellular factors contribute to the modulation of IGF-1 signaling after tamoxifen treatment, MCF-7 cells were treated with IGF-1 in conditioned medium (CM) obtained from 4-OHT-treated MCF-7 cells and the accumulation of phospho-Akt (S473) was measured. CM inhibited IGF-1-dependent cell signaling and suggesting the involvement of extracellular factors (ie. IGFBPs). A significant increase in IGFBP-1 mRNA and extracellular IGFBP-1 protein was observed in 4-OHT-treated MCF-7 cells. Knockdown experiments demonstrated that both GPER1 and CREB mediate IGFBP-1 induction. Furthermore, experiments showed that 4-OHT-dependent IGFBP-1 transcription is downstream of GPER1-activation in breast cancer cells. Additionally, neutralization and knockdown experiments demonstrated a role for IGFBP-1 in the observed inhibition of IGF-1 signaling. These results suggested that 4-OHT inhibits IGF-1 signaling via GPER1 and CREB mediated extracellular IGFBP-1 accumulation in breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Vaziri-Gohar
- Molecular Biology Program, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - Kevin D Houston
- Molecular Biology Program, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gaudet HM, Cheng SB, Christensen EM, Filardo EJ. The G-protein coupled estrogen receptor, GPER: The inside and inside-out story. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 418 Pt 3:207-19. [PMID: 26190834 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
GPER possesses structural and functional characteristics shared by members of the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, the largest class of plasma membrane receptors. This newly appreciated estrogen receptor is localized predominately within intracellular membranes in most, but not all, cell types and its surface expression is modulated by steroid hormones and during tissue injury. An intracellular staining pattern is not unique among GPCRs, which employ a diverse array of molecular mechanisms that restrict cell surface expression and effectively regulating receptor binding and activation. The finding that GPER displays an intracellular predisposition has created some confusion as the estrogen-inducible transcription factors, ERα and ERβ, also reside intracellularly, and has led to complex suggestions of receptor interaction. GPER undergoes constitutive retrograde trafficking from the plasma membrane to the endoplasmic reticulum and recent studies indicate its interaction with PDZ binding proteins that sort transmembrane receptors to synaptosomes and endosomes. Genetic targeting and selective ligand approaches as well as cell models that express GPER in the absence of ERs clearly supports GPER as a bonafide "stand alone" receptor. Here, the molecular details that regulate GPER action, its cell biological activities and its implicated roles in physiological and pathological processes are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H M Gaudet
- Wheaton College, Department of Chemistry, Norton, MA, 02766, USA
| | - S B Cheng
- Women & Infants Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - E M Christensen
- Wheaton College, Department of Chemistry, Norton, MA, 02766, USA
| | - E J Filardo
- Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bessa A, Campos FL, Videira RA, Mendes-Oliveira J, Bessa-Neto D, Baltazar G. GPER: A new tool to protect dopaminergic neurons? Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2015; 1852:2035-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
24
|
Gabor C, Lymer J, Phan A, Choleris E. Rapid effects of the G-protein coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER) on learning and dorsal hippocampus dendritic spines in female mice. Physiol Behav 2015; 149:53-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
25
|
Gogos A, Sbisa AM, Sun J, Gibbons A, Udawela M, Dean B. A Role for Estrogen in Schizophrenia: Clinical and Preclinical Findings. Int J Endocrinol 2015; 2015:615356. [PMID: 26491441 PMCID: PMC4600562 DOI: 10.1155/2015/615356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender differences in schizophrenia have been extensively researched and it is being increasingly accepted that gonadal steroids are strongly attributed to this phenomenon. Of the various hormones implicated, the estrogen hypothesis has been the most widely researched one and it postulates that estrogen exerts a protective effect by buffering females against the development and severity of the illness. In this review, we comprehensively analyse studies that have investigated the effects of estrogen, in particular 17β-estradiol, in clinical, animal, and molecular research with relevance to schizophrenia. Specifically, we discuss the current evidence on estrogen dysfunction in schizophrenia patients and review the clinical findings on the use of estradiol as an adjunctive treatment in schizophrenia patients. Preclinical research that has used animal models and molecular probes to investigate estradiol's underlying protective mechanisms is also substantially discussed, with particular focus on estradiol's impact on the major neurotransmitter systems implicated in schizophrenia, namely, the dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gogos
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Alyssa M. Sbisa
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Jeehae Sun
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Andrew Gibbons
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Madhara Udawela
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Brian Dean
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|