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Merkulyeva N, Mikhalkin A, Veshchitskii A. Inner Structure of the Lateral Geniculate Complex of Adult and Newborn Acomys cahirinus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7855. [PMID: 39063096 PMCID: PMC11277159 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147855] [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: 07/05/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acomys cahirinus is a unique Rodentia species with several distinctive physiological traits, such as precocial development and remarkable regenerative abilities. These characteristics render A. cahirinus increasingly valuable for regenerative and developmental physiology studies. Despite this, the structure and postnatal development of the central nervous system in A. cahirinus have been inadequately explored, with only sporadic data available. This study is the first in a series of papers addressing these gaps. Our first objective was to characterize the structure of the main visual thalamic region, the lateral geniculate complex, using several neuronal markers (including Ca2+-binding proteins, glutamic acid decarboxylase enzyme, and non-phosphorylated domains of heavy-chain neurofilaments) to label populations of principal neurons and interneurons in adult and newborn A. cahirinus. As typically found in other rodents, we identified three subdivisions in the geniculate complex: the dorsal and ventral lateral geniculate nuclei (LGNd and LGNv) and the intergeniculate leaflet (IGL). Additionally, we characterized internal diversity in the LGN nuclei. The "shell" and "core" regions of the LGNd were identified using calretinin in adults and newborns. In adults, the inner and outer parts of the LGNv were identified using calbindin, calretinin, parvalbumin, GAD67, and SMI-32, whereas in newborns, calretinin and SMI-32 were employed for this purpose. Our findings revealed more pronounced developmental changes in LGNd compared to LGNv and IGL, suggesting that LGNd is less mature at birth and more influenced by visual experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Merkulyeva
- Neuromorphology Laboratory, Pavlov Institute of Physiology of Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia; (A.M.); (A.V.)
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Chen H, Luo S, Deng X, Li S, Mao Y, Yan J, Cheng Y, Liu X, Pan J, Huang H. Pre-eclamptic foetal programming predisposes offspring to hepatic steatosis via DNA methylation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167189. [PMID: 38648899 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Gamete and embryo-foetal origins of adult diseases hypothesis proposes that adulthood chronic disorders are associated with adverse foetal and early life traits. Our study aimed to characterise developmental changes and underlying mechanisms of metabolic disorders in offspring of pre-eclampsia (PE) programmed pregnancy. METHODS Nω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) induced pre-eclampsia-like C57BL/6J mouse model was used. Lipid profiling, histological morphology, indirect calorimetry, mRNA sequencing, and pyrosequencing were performed on PE offspring of both young and elderly ages. RESULTS PE offspring exhibited increased postnatal weight gain, hepatic lipid accumulation, enlarged adipocytes, and impaired energy balance that continued to adulthood. Integrated RNA sequencing of foetal and 52-week-old livers revealed that the differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in lipid metabolism, including glycerol-3-phosphate acyl-transferase 3 (Gpat3), a key enzyme for de novo synthesis of triglycerides (TG), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1a (Cpt1a), a key transmembrane enzyme that mediates fatty acid degradation. Pyrosequencing of livers from PE offspring identified hypomethylated and hypermethylated regions in Gpat3 and Cpt1a promoters, which were associated with upregulated and downregulated expressions of Gpat3 and Cpt1a, respectively. These epigenetic alterations are persistent and consistent from the foetal stage to adulthood in PE offspring. CONCLUSION These findings suggest a methylation-mediated epigenetic mechanism for PE-induced intergenerational lipid accumulation, impaired energy balance and obesity in offspring, and indicate the potential benefits of early interventions in offspring exposed to maternal PE to reduce their susceptibility to metabolic disorder in their later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixi Chen
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200030, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, China; State Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Shanghai 200000, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Sisi Luo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xiuyu Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200000, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Sisi Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Yiting Mao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jing Yan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yi Cheng
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xia Liu
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jiexue Pan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200011, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200030, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, China; State Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Shanghai 200000, China.
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Estrella CAS, Gatford KL, Xiang R, Javadmanesh A, Ghanipoor-Samami M, Nattrass GS, Shuaib E, McAllister MM, Beckman I, Thomsen DA, Clifton VL, Owens JA, Roberts CT, Hiendleder S, Kind KL. Asymmetric growth-limiting development of the female conceptus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1306513. [PMID: 38362586 PMCID: PMC10867182 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1306513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sex differences in prenatal growth may contribute to sex-dependent programming effects on postnatal phenotype. Methods We integrated for the first time phenotypic, histomorphological, clinico-chemical, endocrine and gene expression analyses in a single species, the bovine conceptus at mid-gestation. Results We demonstrate that by mid-gestation, before the onset of accelerated growth, the female conceptus displays asymmetric lower growth compared to males. Female fetuses were smaller with lower ponderal index and organ weights than males. However, their brain:body weight, brain:liver weight and heart:body weight ratios were higher than in males, indicating brain and heart 'sparing'. The female placenta weighed less and had lower volumes of trophoblast and fetal connective tissue than the male placenta. Female umbilical cord vessel diameters were smaller, and female-specific relationships of body weight and brain:liver weight ratios with cord vessel diameters indicated that the umbilico-placental vascular system creates a growth-limiting environment where blood flow is redistributed to protect brain and heart growth. Clinico-chemical indicators of liver perfusion support this female-specific growth-limiting phenotype, while lower insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) gene expression in brain and heart, and lower circulating IGF2, implicate female-specific modulation of key endocrine mediators by nutrient supply. Conclusion This mode of female development may increase resilience to environmental perturbations in utero and contribute to sex-bias in programming outcomes including susceptibility to non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Amor S. Estrella
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L. Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ruidong Xiang
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Ali Javadmanesh
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Mani Ghanipoor-Samami
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Greg S. Nattrass
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Livestock Systems, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Entesar Shuaib
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Milton M. McAllister
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Ian Beckman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Dana A. Thomsen
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Julie A. Owens
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Claire T. Roberts
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stefan Hiendleder
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Karen L. Kind
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Epigenetics and Genetics Group and Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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Luo SS, Zhu H, Huang HF, Ding GL. Sex differences in glycolipidic disorders after exposure to maternal hyperglycemia during early development. J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-023-02069-5. [PMID: 36976483 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this review was to summarize sex differences in glycolipid metabolic phenotypes of human and animal models after exposure to maternal hyperglycemia and overview the underlying mechanisms, providing a new perspective on the maternal hyperglycemia-triggered risk of glycolipidic disorders in offspring. METHODS A comprehensive literature search within PubMed was performed. Selected publications related to studies on offspring exposed to maternal hyperglycemia investigating the sex differences of glycolipid metabolism were reviewed. RESULTS Maternal hyperglycemia increases the risk of glycolipid metabolic disorders in offspring, such as obesity, glucose intolerance and diabetes. Whether with or without intervention, metabolic phenotypes have been shown to exhibit sex differences between male and female offspring in response to maternal hyperglycemia, which may be related to gonadal hormones, organic intrinsic differences, placenta, and epigenetic modifications. CONCLUSION Sex may play a role in the different incidences and pathogenesis of abnormal glycolipid metabolism. More studies investigating both sexes are needed to understand how and why environmental conditions in early life affect long-term health between male and female individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-S Luo
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - H Zhu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - H-F Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - G-L Ding
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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Meneses JAM, Nascimento KB, Galvão MC, Ramírez-Zamudio GD, Gionbelli TRS, Ladeira MM, Duarte MDS, Casagrande DR, Gionbelli MP. Protein Supplementation during Mid-Gestation Alters the Amino Acid Patterns, Hepatic Metabolism, and Maternal Skeletal Muscle Turnover of Pregnant Zebu Beef Cows. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243567. [PMID: 36552487 PMCID: PMC9774392 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
From 100 to 200 days of gestation, 52 cows carrying male (n = 30) or female (n = 22) fetuses were assigned to CON (basal diet-5.5% of CP, n = 26) or SUP (basal diet + protein supplement [40% CP, 3.5 g/kg BW]-12% of CP, n = 26) treatments. Glucose concentrations decreased at 200 (p ≤ 0.01; CON = 46.9 and SUP = 54.7 mg/dL) and 270 days (p ≤ 0.05; CON = 48.4 and SUP = 53.3 mg/dL) for CON compared to SUP. The same pattern occurred for insulin (p ≤ 0.01). At parturition, the NEFA concentration was greater (p = 0.01, 0.10 vs. 0.08 mmol/L) for CON than for SUP. Total AA increased in SUP (p ≤ 0.03) at mid- and late-gestation compared to CON. At 200 days, CON dams carrying females had less essential AA (p = 0.01) than cows carrying males. The SUP dams had greater expressions of protein synthesis markers, namely eIf4E and GSK3β (p ≤ 0.04), at day 200 and of MuFR1 (protein degradation marker, p ≤ 0.04) at parturition. Supplemented cows had higher hepatic pyruvate carboxylase expressions (p = 0.02). Therefore, PS alleviates the restriction overload on maternal metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Andrés Moreno Meneses
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-900, MG, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales, Cartagena 130001, Bolivar, Colombia
| | | | | | | | | | - Marcio Machado Ladeira
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-900, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel Rume Casagrande
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-900, MG, Brazil
| | - Mateus Pies Gionbelli
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-900, MG, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(35)-3829-4618
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Hufnagel A, Grant ID, Aiken CEM. Glucose and oxygen in the early intrauterine environment and their role in developmental abnormalities. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:25-34. [PMID: 35410716 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.03.041] [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: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The early life environment can have profound impacts on the developing conceptus in terms of both growth and morphogenesis. These impacts can manifest in a variety of ways, including congenital fetal anomalies, placental dysfunction with subsequent effects on fetal growth, and adverse perinatal outcomes, or via effects on long-term health outcomes that may not be detected until later childhood or adulthood. Two key examples of environmental influences on early development are explored: maternal hyperglycaemia and gestational hypoxia. These are increasingly common pregnancy exposures worldwide, with potentially profound impacts on population health. We explore what is known regarding the mechanisms by which these environmental exposures can impact early intrauterine development and thus result in adverse outcomes in the immediate, short, and long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Hufnagel
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Imogen D Grant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Box 223, The Rosie Hospital and NIHR Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK
| | - Catherine E M Aiken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Box 223, The Rosie Hospital and NIHR Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
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7
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Reemst K, Ruigrok SR, Bleker L, Naninck EFG, Ernst T, Kotah JM, Lucassen PJ, Roseboom TJ, Pollux BJA, de Rooij SR, Korosi A. Sex-dependence and comorbidities of the early-life adversity induced mental and metabolic disease risks: Where are we at? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104627. [PMID: 35339483 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Early-life adversity (ELA) is a major risk factor for developing later-life mental and metabolic disorders. However, if and to what extent ELA contributes to the comorbidity and sex-dependent prevalence/presentation of these disorders remains unclear. We here comprehensively review and integrate human and rodent ELA (pre- and postnatal) studies examining mental or metabolic health in both sexes and discuss the role of the placenta and maternal milk, key in transferring maternal effects to the offspring. We conclude that ELA impacts mental and metabolic health with sex-specific presentations that depend on timing of exposure, and that human and rodent studies largely converge in their findings. ELA is more often reported to impact cognitive and externalizing domains in males, internalizing behaviors in both sexes and concerning the metabolic dimension, adiposity in females and insulin sensitivity in males. Thus, ELA seems to be involved in the origin of the comorbidity and sex-specific prevalence/presentation of some of the most common disorders in our society. Therefore, ELA-induced disease states deserve specific preventive and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitty Reemst
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Silvie R Ruigrok
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Bleker
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva F G Naninck
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tiffany Ernst
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Experimental Zoology &Evolutionary Biology Group, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Janssen M Kotah
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa J Roseboom
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bart J A Pollux
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Experimental Zoology &Evolutionary Biology Group, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne R de Rooij
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aniko Korosi
- University of Amsterdam, Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity Group, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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McKenna J, Bellofiore N, Temple-Smith P. Good things come to those who mate: analysis of the mating behaviour in the menstruating rodent, Acomys cahirinus. BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:13. [PMID: 37170145 PMCID: PMC10127372 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00112-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The Egyptian spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is the only known rodent to exhibit true, human-like menstruation and postpartum ovulation, and is an important new model for reproductive studies. Spiny mice do not produce a visible copulatory plug, and calculation of gestational age is therefore restricted by the need to use mated postpartum dams. The current inefficient method of monitoring until parturition to provide a subsequent estimate of gestational age increases study duration and costs. This study addressed this issue by comparing the mating behaviour of spiny mice across the menstrual cycle and proposes a more accurate method for staging and pairing animals that provides reliable estimates of gestational age. In experiment 1, mating behaviour was recorded overnight to collect data on mounting, intromission, and ejaculation (n = 5 pairs per stage) in spiny mice paired at menses and at early and late follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. In experiment 2, female spiny mice were paired at the follicular or luteal phases of the menstrual cycle to determine any effect on the pairing-birth interval (n = 10 pairs).
Results
We report a broad mating window of ~ 3 days during the follicular phase and early luteal phase of spiny mice. Males displayed a discrete ‘foot twitch’ behaviour during intromission and a brief copulatory lock during ejaculation. Litters were delivered after 40–43 days if pairing occurred during the mating window, compared with 46–48 days for spiny mice paired in the late luteal phase. When pairing occurred during the late luteal phase or menses no mating activity was observed during the recording period.
Conclusion
This study clearly demonstrates an effect of the menstrual cycle on mating behaviour and pregnancy in the spiny mouse and provides a reliable and more effective protocol for estimating gestational age without the need for postpartum dams.
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Bellofiore N, McKenna J, Ellery S, Temple-Smith P. The Spiny Mouse—A Menstruating Rodent to Build a Bridge From Bench to Bedside. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:784578. [PMID: 36303981 PMCID: PMC9580678 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.784578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Menstruation, the cyclical breakdown of the uterine lining, is arguably one of evolution's most mysterious reproductive strategies. The complexity and rarity of menstruation within the animal kingdom is undoubtedly a leading contributor to our current lack of understanding about menstrual function and disorders. In particular, the molecular and environmental mechanisms that drive menstrual and fertility dysregulation remain ambiguous, owing to the restricted opportunities to study menstruation and model menstrual disorders in species outside the primates. The recent discovery of naturally occurring menstruation in the Egyptian spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) offers a new laboratory model with significant benefits for prospective research in women's health. This review summarises current knowledge of spiny mouse menstruation, with an emphasis on spiral artery formation, inflammation and endocrinology. We offer a new perspective on cycle variation in menstrual bleeding between individual animals, and propose that this is indicative of fertility success. We discuss how we can harness our knowledge of the unique physiology of the spiny mouse to better understand vascular remodelling and its implications for successful implantation, placentation, and foetal development. Our research suggests that the spiny mouse has the potential as a translational research model to bridge the gap between bench to bedside and provide improved reproductive health outcomes for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Nadia Bellofiore
| | - Jarrod McKenna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Stacey Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Temple-Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Christians JK. The Placenta's Role in Sexually Dimorphic Fetal Growth Strategies. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1895-1907. [PMID: 34699045 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00780-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Fetal sex affects the risk of pregnancy complications and the long-term effects of prenatal environment on health. Some have hypothesized that growth strategies differ between the sexes, whereby males prioritize growth whereas females are more responsive to their environment. This review evaluates the role of the placenta in such strategies, focusing on (1) mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphism in gene expression, (2) the nature and extent of sexual dimorphism in placental gene expression, (3) sexually dimorphic responses to nutrient supply, and (4) sexual dimorphism in morphology and histopathology. The sex chromosomes contribute to sex differences in placental gene expression, and fetal hormones may play a role later in development. Sexually dimorphic placental gene expression may contribute to differences in the prevalence of complications such as preeclampsia, although this link is not clear. Placental responses to nutrient supply frequently show sexual dimorphism, but there is no consistent pattern where one sex is more responsive. There are sex differences in the prevalence of placental histopathologies, and placental changes in pregnancy complications, but also many similarities. Overall, no clear patterns support the hypothesis that females are more responsive to the maternal environment, or that males prioritize growth. While male fetuses are at greater risk of a variety of complications, total prenatal mortality is higher in females, such that males exposed to early insults may be more likely to survive and be observed in studies of adverse outcomes. Going forward, robust statistical approaches to test for sex-dependent effects must be more widely adopted to reduce the incidence of spurious results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian K Christians
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada. .,Centre for Cell Biology, Development and Disease, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada. .,British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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11
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Catalini L, Fedder J. Characteristics of the endometrium in menstruating species: lessons learned from the animal kingdom†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:1160-1169. [PMID: 32129461 PMCID: PMC7253787 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we have summarized what is currently known about menstruating animal species with special emphasis on non-primate species: length of their menstrual cycle, ovulation, implantation, placentation, decidualization, and endometrial characteristics. Having an overview of all the possible animal models that can be used to study menstruation and the menstrual cycle could be useful to select the one that better matches the needs of the individual research projects. The most promising species to study menstruation seems to be the spiny mouse Acomys cahirinus. It is a rodent that could be easily held in the existing laboratory facilities for rats and mice but with the great advantage of having spontaneous menstruation and several human-like menstrual cycle characteristics. Among the species of menstruating bats, the black mastiff bat Molossus ater and wild fulvous fruit bat Rousettus leschenaultii are the ones presenting the most human-like characteristics. The elephant shrew seems to be the less suitable species among the ones analyzed. The induced mouse model of menstruation is also presented as an adaptable alternative to study menstruation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Catalini
- Centre of Andrology and Fertility Clinic Dept. D, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology and Fertility Clinic Dept. D, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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12
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Meakin AS, Cuffe JSM, Darby JRT, Morrison JL, Clifton VL. Let's Talk about Placental Sex, Baby: Understanding Mechanisms That Drive Female- and Male-Specific Fetal Growth and Developmental Outcomes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6386. [PMID: 34203717 PMCID: PMC8232290 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well understood that sex differences exist between females and males even before they are born. These sex-dependent differences may contribute to altered growth and developmental outcomes for the fetus. Based on our initial observations in the human placenta, we hypothesised that the male prioritises growth pathways in order to maximise growth through to adulthood, thereby ensuring the greatest chance of reproductive success. However, this male-specific "evolutionary advantage" likely contributes to males being less adaptable to shifts in the in-utero environment, which then places them at a greater risk for intrauterine morbidities or mortality. Comparatively, females are more adaptable to changes in the in-utero environment at the cost of growth, which may reduce their risk of poor perinatal outcomes. The mechanisms that drive these sex-specific adaptations to a change in the in-utero environment remain unclear, but an increasing body of evidence within the field of developmental biology would suggest that alterations to placental function, as well as the feto-placental hormonal milieu, is an important contributing factor. Herein, we have addressed the current knowledge regarding sex-specific intrauterine growth differences and have examined how certain pregnancy complications may alter these female- and male-specific adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S. Meakin
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - James S. M. Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Jack R. T. Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Janna L. Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
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13
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Stevens S, Mohan S. Opioid withdrawal behavior in spiny mice: A novel preclinical model of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Heliyon 2021; 7:e06694. [PMID: 33898824 PMCID: PMC8056230 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As the opioid epidemic continues to grow, opioid use among pregnant women is increasing significantly. This has led to a steady rise in the number of infants born with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Although short-term withdrawal symptoms associated with NOWS are well characterized, there are many gaps in our understanding of the short and long-term effects of prenatal opioid exposure. Current animal models of NOWS are limited by shortened gestational periods, large litter sizes, and primary organogenesis occurring after birth. This often leads to postnatal treatment to mimic drug exposure during third-trimester development. Using the unique rodent species Acomys cahirinus, more commonly known as spiny mice, which have an extended 40-day gestation period, small litter sizes, and increased in utero organogenesis we aim to study the short-term effects of prenatal morphine exposure by assessing withdrawal behavior. To model maternal opioid use, dams were treated daily with morphine (10 and 30 mg/kg S.C.) beginning on gestation day 19 until the day of birth; this resulted in a cumulative exposure of 19-21 days. Withdrawal behaviors for each pup were recorded daily between postnatal days 0-7 (PND 0-7). Our study found that prenatal morphine exposure in spiny mice led to an increase in withdrawal behavior throughout the early postnatal period and validated the use of this species as a novel pre-clinical model of NOWS. We are hopeful this rodent model will further our understanding of the short and long-term consequences of prenatal opioid exposure on neurodevelopment and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Stevens
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Marshall University, School of Pharmacy, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
| | - Shekher Mohan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manchester University, College of Pharmacy, Fort Wayne, IN 46845, USA.,Department of Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Liberty University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg, VA 24502, USA
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14
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Postpartum ovulation and early pregnancy in the menstruating spiny mouse, Acomys cahirinus. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5344. [PMID: 33674629 PMCID: PMC7935856 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84361-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Egyptian spiny mice are the only known species to have human-like menstruation and a postpartum ovulation. Unfortunately, no endocrine or morphological evidence has been provided for a postpartum ovulation in spiny mice, and while later stages of pregnancy have been well studied, early events including embryo implantation and spiral artery remodelling have not been reported. This study compared the sex steroid endocrinology and reproductive tract morphology of dams at eight timepoints (n = 40) postpartum to determine the timing of ovulation and the timing and invasiveness of embryo implantation in A. cahirinus. Reproductive tracts were fixed and stained for histology and immunohistochemistry, and plasma was prepared for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Ovarian histology and estradiol-17B concentrations indicate ovulation within 48 h of parturition and then immediate resumption of follicular growth. Uterine histology and immunohistochemistry revealed progressive epithelial repair, endometrial growth and spiral artery assembly and remodelling in dams postpartum. Blastocysts were seen in the uterine lumen at day 4-5 postpartum and embryos had implanted superficially with minimal stromal invasion by day 5-6. This study provides further evidence for the unique, humanesque reproductive biology of spiny mice and for a postpartum ovulation using endocrine and morphological changes observed during early pregnancy. Taken together, our data suggest that spiny mice may act as appropriate models of human pregnancy disorders such as implantation failure or pre-eclampsia.
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15
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Bellofiore N, Ellery SJ, Temple-Smith P, Evans J. Pseudopregnancy and reproductive cycle synchronisation cannot be induced using conventional methods in the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus). Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:363-372. [PMID: 31839110 DOI: 10.1071/rd18506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The menstruating spiny mouse is the first rodent identified to exhibit natural spontaneous decidualisation, cyclical endometrial shedding and regeneration. While the spiny mouse shares several primate-like characteristics in its reproductive biology, it has not been established whether pseudopregnancy can be induced or if its cycles can be synchronised as in non-human mammals. Here we describe attempts to induce pseudopregnancy and synchronisation of menstrual cycles (i.e. Whitten effect) in spiny mice. Virgin females (n=3-8 per group) underwent one of the following procedures to induce pseudopregnancy: daily vaginal lavage only (control), progesterone injection, mechanical stimulation of the cervix and sterile mating. A separate cohort was also exposed to male-soiled bedding to assess the Whitten effect. Pseudopregnancy was deemed successful if females presented with extended (>12 consecutive days) leukocytic vaginal cytology. No female from any method of induction met this criterion. In addition, the menstrual cycles of a group of six females could not be synchronised, nor immediate ovulation induced via exposure to male-soiled bedding. These responses indicate that the spiny mouse does not behave as a typical rodent. Like higher-order primates, the spiny mouse exhibits a relatively rare reproductive strategy, of failure to show pseudopregnancy or cyclical synchronisation. This is further endorsement of the use of this species as a versatile animal model for translational studies of menstruation and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Stacey J Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Peter Temple-Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
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16
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A human-based assisted reproduction protocol for the menstruating spiny mouse, Acomys cahirinus. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244411. [PMID: 33370773 PMCID: PMC7769615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Egyptian or Common spiny mouse (A. cahirinus) is the first rodent species to show human-like menstruation and spontaneous decidualisation. We consider from these, and its other, human-like characteristics that this species will be a more useful and appropriate small animal model for human reproductive studies. Based on this, there is a need to develop specific laboratory-based assisted reproduction protocols including superovulation, in-vitro fertilisation, embryo cryopreservation and transfer to expand and make this model more relevant. Because standard rodent superovulation has not been successful in the spiny mouse, we have selected to test a human protocol. Female spiny mice will receive a subcutaneous GnRH agonist implant and be allowed to recover. Menstrual cycle lengths will then be allowed to stabilize prior to ovarian stimulation. After recovery, females will be injected IP once a day for 4 days with a FSH analogue, to induce follicular growth, and on day 5 will be injected IP with a hCG analogue to trigger ovulation. Females will either be culled 36hrs after trigger to collect oocytes or immediately paired with a stud male and two cell embryos collected 48hrs later. Mature oocytes will be inseminated using fresh spiny mouse spermatozoa and all in-vitro grown and in-vivo collected two cell embryos will be cryopreserved using methods developed in a close spiny mouse relative, the Mongolian gerbil. For embryo transfer, vitrified embryos will be rapidly warmed and non-surgically transferred to surrogate mice. Surrogates will be monitored until pregnancy is apparent (roughly 30 days) and then left undisturbed until birth, 38-40 days after transfer. By successfully developing robust assisted reproduction protocols in A. cahirinus we will be able to use this rodent as a more effective model for human reproduction.
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17
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Scott H, Phillips TJ, Sze Y, Alfieri A, Rogers MF, Volpato V, Case CP, Brunton PJ. Maternal antioxidant treatment prevents the adverse effects of prenatal stress on the offspring's brain and behavior. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 13:100281. [PMID: 33344732 PMCID: PMC7739187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal exposure to stress during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric disorders in the offspring in later life. The mechanisms through which the effects of maternal stress are transmitted to the fetus are unclear, however the placenta, as the interface between mother and fetus, is likely to play a key role. Using a rat model, we investigated a role for placental oxidative stress in conveying the effects of maternal social stress to the fetus and the potential for treatment using a nanoparticle-bound antioxidant to prevent adverse outcomes in the offspring. Maternal psychosocial stress increased circulating corticosterone in the mother, but not in the fetuses. Maternal stress also induced oxidative stress in the placenta, but not in the fetal brain. Blocking oxidative stress using an antioxidant prevented the prenatal stress-induced anxiety phenotype in the male offspring, and prevented sex-specific neurobiological changes, specifically a reduction in dendrite lengths in the hippocampus, as well as reductions in the number of parvalbumin-positive neurons and GABA receptor subunits in the hippocampus and basolateral amygdala of the male offspring. Importantly, many of these effects were mimicked in neuronal cultures by application of placental-conditioned medium or fetal plasma from stressed pregnancies, indicating molecules released from the placenta may mediate the effects of prenatal stress on the fetal brain. Indeed, both placenta-conditioned medium and fetal plasma contained differentially abundant microRNAs following maternal stress, and their predicted targets were enriched for genes relevant to nervous system development and psychiatric disorders. The results highlight placental oxidative stress as a key mediator in transmitting the maternal social stress effects on the offspring's brain and behavior, and offer a potential intervention to prevent stress-induced fetal programming of affective disorders. Social stress in pregnancy induces oxidative stress but is prevented by antioxidant. Prenatal stress induces behavioural, neuroanatomical and neurochemical changes. Maternal antioxidant treatment prevents stress-induced effects in the offspring. Maternal stress alters the balance of microRNAs secreted from the placenta. Placental oxidative stress mediates maternal social stress effects on the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Scott
- School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - T J Phillips
- School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Y Sze
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - A Alfieri
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - M F Rogers
- Intelligent Systems Laboratory, University of Bristol, Merchant Venturers Building, Woodland Road, Bristol, BS8 1UB, UK
| | - V Volpato
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - C P Case
- School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - P J Brunton
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK.,Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Haining, Zhejiang, 314400, PR China
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18
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Khambadkone SG, Cordner ZA, Tamashiro KLK. Maternal stressors and the developmental origins of neuropsychiatric risk. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100834. [PMID: 32084515 PMCID: PMC7243665 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The maternal environment during pregnancy is critical for fetal development and perinatal perturbations can prime offspring disease risk. Here, we briefly review evidence linking two well-characterized maternal stressors - psychosocial stress and infection - to increased neuropsychiatric risk in offspring. In the current climate of increasing obesity and globalization of the Western-style diet, maternal overnutrition emerges as a pressing public health concern. We focus our attention on recent epidemiological and animal model evidence showing that, like psychosocial stress and infection, maternal overnutrition can also increase offspring neuropsychiatric risk. Using lessons learned from the psychosocial stress and infection literature, we discuss how altered maternal and placental physiology in the setting of overnutrition may contribute to abnormal fetal development and resulting neuropsychiatric outcomes. A better understanding of converging pathophysiological pathways shared between stressors may enable development of interventions against neuropsychiatric illnesses that may be beneficial across stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seva G Khambadkone
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Cellular & Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Zachary A Cordner
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kellie L K Tamashiro
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Cellular & Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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19
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Increased adiposity, inflammation, metabolic disruption and dyslipidemia in adult male offspring of DOSS treated C57BL/6 dams. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1530. [PMID: 30728429 PMCID: PMC6365642 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-38383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence indicates that obesity can be promoted by chemical ‘obesogens’ that drive adiposity, hunger, inflammation and suppress metabolism. Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DOSS), a lipid emulsifier and candidate obesogen in vitro, is widely used in processed foods, cosmetics and as stool softener medicines commonly used during pregnancy. In vivo testing of DOSS was performed in a developmental origins of adult obesity model. Pregnant mice were orally administered vehicle control or DOSS at times and doses comparable to stool softener use during human pregnancy. All weaned offspring consumed only standard diet. Adult male but not female offspring of DOSS-treated dams showed significantly increased body mass, overall and visceral fat masses, and decreased bone area. They exhibited significant decreases in plasma adiponectin and increases in leptin, glucose intolerance and hyperinsulinemia. Inflammatory IL-6 was elevated, as was adipose Cox2 and Nox4 gene expressions, which may be associated with promoter DNA methylation changes. Multiple significant phospholipid/sterol lipid increases paralleled profiles from long-term high-fat diet induced obesity in males. Collectively, developmental DOSS exposure leads to increased adult adiposity, inflammation, metabolic disorder and dyslipidemia in offspring fed a standard diet, suggesting that pharmaceutical and other sources of DOSS taken during human pregnancy might contribute to long-term obesity-related health concerns in offspring.
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20
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Fleiss B, Wong F, Brownfoot F, Shearer IK, Baud O, Walker DW, Gressens P, Tolcos M. Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Research Areas in Intrauterine Growth Restriction-Associated Brain Injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:188. [PMID: 30984110 PMCID: PMC6449431 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a complex global healthcare issue. Concerted research and clinical efforts have improved our knowledge of the neurodevelopmental sequelae of IUGR which has raised the profile of this complex problem. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of therapies to prevent the substantial rates of fetal demise or the constellation of permanent neurological deficits that arise from IUGR. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical and translational gaps in our knowledge that hamper our collective efforts to improve the neurological sequelae of IUGR. Also, we draw attention to cutting-edge tools and techniques that can provide novel insights into this disorder, and technologies that offer the potential for better drug design and delivery. We cover topics including: how we can improve our use of crib-side monitoring options, what we still need to know about inflammation in IUGR, the necessity for more human post-mortem studies, lessons from improved integrated histology-imaging analyses regarding the cell-specific nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals, options to improve risk stratification with genomic analysis, and treatments mediated by nanoparticle delivery which are designed to modify specific cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi Fleiss
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bobbi Fleiss
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona Brownfoot
- Translational Obstetrics Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle K. Shearer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivier Baud
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Children's Hospital, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W. Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Pierre Gressens
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- PremUP, Paris, France
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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21
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Prenatal Household Air Pollution Alters Cord Blood Mononuclear Cell Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number: Sex-Specific Associations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 16:ijerph16010026. [PMID: 30583542 PMCID: PMC6338880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Associations between prenatal household air pollution (HAP) exposure or cookstove intervention to reduce HAP and cord blood mononuclear cell (CBMC) mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid copy number (mtDNAcn), an oxidative stress biomarker, are unknown. Materials and Methods: Pregnant women were recruited and randomized to one of two cookstove interventions, including a clean-burning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stove, or control. Prenatal HAP exposure was determined by serial, personal carbon monoxide (CO) measurements. CBMC mtDNAcn was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Multivariable linear regression determined associations between prenatal CO and cookstove arm on mtDNAcn. Associations between mtDNAcn and birth outcomes and effect modification by infant sex were explored. Results: LPG users had the lowest CO exposures (p = 0.02 by ANOVA). In boys only, average prenatal CO was inversely associated with mtDNAcn (β = -14.84, SE = 6.41, p = 0.03, per 1ppm increase in CO). When examined by study arm, LPG cookstove had the opposite effect in all children (LPG β = 19.34, SE = 9.72, p = 0.049), but especially boys (β = 30.65, SE = 14.46, p = 0.04), as compared to Control. Increased mtDNAcn was associated with improved birth outcomes. Conclusions: Increased prenatal HAP exposure reduces CBMC mtDNAcn, suggesting cumulative prenatal oxidative stress injury. An LPG stove intervention may reverse this effect. Boys appear most susceptible.
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22
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Bellofiore N, Cousins F, Temple-Smith P, Dickinson H, Evans J. A missing piece: the spiny mouse and the puzzle of menstruating species. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R25-R41. [PMID: 29789322 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We recently discovered the first known menstruating rodent. With the exception of four bats and the elephant shrew, the common spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is the only species outside the primate order to exhibit menses. There are few widely accepted theories on why menstruation developed as the preferred reproductive strategy of these select mammals, all of which reference the evolution of spontaneous decidualisation prior to menstrual shedding. Though menstruating species share several reproductive traits, there has been no identifiable feature unique to menstruating species. Such a feature might suggest why spontaneous decidualisation, and thus menstruation, evolved in these species. We propose that a ≥3-fold increase in progesterone during the luteal phase of the reproductive cycle is a unique characteristic linking menstruating species. We discuss spontaneous decidualisation as a consequence of high progesterone, and the potential role of prolactin in screening for defective embryos in these species to aid in minimising implantation of abnormal embryos. We further explore the possible impact of nutrition in selecting species to undergo spontaneous decidualisation and subsequent menstruation. We summarise the current knowledge of menstruation, discuss current pre-clinical models of menstruation and how the spiny mouse may benefit advancing our understanding of this rare biological phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Fiona Cousins
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | - Hayley Dickinson
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Centre for Reproductive HealthHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
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23
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Pérez-Cerezales S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Rizos D, Lonergan P, Bermejo-Alvarez P, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Early sex-dependent differences in response to environmental stress. Reproduction 2017; 155:R39-R51. [PMID: 29030490 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Developmental plasticity enables the appearance of long-term effects in offspring caused by exposure to environmental stressors during embryonic and foetal life. These long-term effects can be traced to pre- and post-implantation development, and in both cases, the effects are usually sex specific. During preimplantation development, male and female embryos exhibit an extensive transcriptional dimorphism mainly driven by incomplete X chromosome inactivation. These early developmental stages are crucial for the establishment of epigenetic marks that will be conserved throughout development, making it a particularly susceptible period for the appearance of long-term epigenetic-based phenotypes. Later in development, gonadal formation generates hormonal differences between the sexes, and male and female placentae exhibit different responses to environmental stressors. The maternal environment, including hormones and environmental insults during pregnancy, contributes to sex-specific placental development that controls genetic and epigenetic programming during foetal development, regulating sex-specific differences, including sex-specific epigenetic responses to environmental hazards, leading to long-term effects. This review summarizes several human and animal studies examining sex-specific responses to environmental stressors during both the periconception period (caused by differences in sex chromosome dosage) and placental development (caused by both sex chromosomes and hormones). The identification of relevant sex-dependent trajectories caused by sex chromosomes and/or sex hormones is essential to define diagnostic markers and prevention/intervention protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food ScienceUniversity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Padmanabhan N, Rakoczy J, Kondratowicz M, Menelaou K, Blake GET, Watson ED. Multigenerational analysis of sex-specific phenotypic differences at midgestation caused by abnormal folate metabolism. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2017; 3:dvx014. [PMID: 29492317 PMCID: PMC5804557 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvx014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The exposure to adverse environmental conditions (e.g. poor nutrition) may lead to increased disease risk in an individual and their descendants. In some cases, the results may be sexually dimorphic. A range of phenotypes has been associated with deficiency in or defective metabolism of the vitamin folate. However, the molecular mechanism linking folate metabolism to development is still not well defined nor is it clear whether phenotypes are sex-specific. The enzyme methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) is required for the progression of folate metabolism and the utilization of methyl groups from the folate cycle. Previously, we showed that the hypomorphic Mtrrgt mutation in mice results in metabolic disruption, epigenetic instability, and a wide spectrum of developmental phenotypes (e.g. growth defects, congenital malformations) at midgestation that appear in subsequent wild-type generations. This transgenerational effect only occurs through the maternal lineage. Here, we explore whether the phenotypes that result from either intrinsic or ancestral Mtrr deficiency are sexually dimorphic. We found that no sexual dimorphism is apparent in either situation when the phenotypes were broadly or specifically defined. However, when we focused on the group of phenotypically normal conceptuses derived from maternal grandparental Mtrr deficiency, we observed an apparent increase in placental efficiency in each subsequent generation leading to F4 generation female embryos that weigh more than controls. These data suggest that ancestral abnormal folate metabolism may lead to male grandprogeny that are less able to adapt or female grandprogeny that are programmed to become more sensitive to folate availability in subsequent generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Padmanabhan
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joanna Rakoczy
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Monika Kondratowicz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Katerina Menelaou
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Georgina E T Blake
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Erica D Watson
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Abstract
Intrauterine or fetal growth restriction (IUGR) is a major complication of pregnancy and leads to significant perinatal morbidities and mortality. Typically, induction of IUGR in animals involves the complete occlusion or ablation of vessels to the uterus or placenta, acutely impairing blood flow and fetal growth, usually with high fetal loss. We aimed to produce a model of reduced fetal growth in the spiny mouse with minimal fetal loss. At 27 days gestational age (term is 38-39 days), a piece of silastic tubing was placed around the left uterine artery to prevent the further increase of uterine blood flow with advancing gestation to induce IUGR (occluded). Controls were generated from sham surgeries without placement of the tubing. Dams were humanely euthanized at 37 days gestational age and all fetuses and placentas were weighed and collected. Of the 17 dams that underwent surgery, 15 carried their pregnancies to 37 days gestational age and 95% of fetuses survived to this time. The difference in fetal body weight between occluded and control was ~21% for fetuses in the left uterus side: there were no differences for fetuses in the right uterus side. Offspring from the occluded group had significantly lower brain, liver, lung, kidney and carcass weights compared with shams. Preventing the gestation-related increase of uterine blood flow induced significant growth restriction in the fetal spiny mouse, with minimal fetal loss. This technique could be readily adapted for other small animal.
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Bellofiore N, Ellery SJ, Mamrot J, Walker DW, Temple-Smith P, Dickinson H. First evidence of a menstruating rodent: the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus). Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; 216:40.e1-40.e11. [PMID: 27503621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advances in research relating to menstruation and associated disorders (eg, endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome) have been hindered by the lack of an appropriate animal model. Menstruation, the cyclical shedding of the decidualized endometrium in the absence of pregnancy, is believed to be limited to 78 higher-order primates (human beings and Old World monkeys), 4 species of bat, and the elephant shrew. This represents only 1.5% of the known 5502 mammalian species and <0.09% of these are nonprimates. Thus, many aspects of menstruation remain poorly understood, limiting the development of effective treatments for women with menstrual disorders. Menstruation occurs as a consequence of progesterone priming of the endometrial stroma and a spontaneous decidual reaction. At the end of each infertile cycle as progesterone levels decline the uterus is unable to maintain this terminally differentiated stroma and the superficial endometrium is shed. True menstruation has never been reported in rodents. OBJECTIVE Here we describe the first observation of menstruation in a rodent, the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus). STUDY DESIGN Virgin female spiny mice (n = 14) aged 12-16 weeks were sampled through daily vaginal lavage for 2 complete reproductive cycles. Stage-specific collection of reproductive tissue and plasma was used for histology, prolactin immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of progesterone (n = 4-5/stage of the menstrual cycle). Normally distributed data are reported as the mean ± SE and significant differences calculated using a 1-way analysis of variance. Nonnormal data are displayed as the median values of replicates (with interquartile range) and significant differences calculated using Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Mean menstrual cycle length was 8.7 ± 0.4 days with red blood cells observed in the lavages over 3.0 ± 0.2 days. Cyclic endometrial shedding and blood in the vaginal canal concluding with each infertile cycle was confirmed in all virgin females. The endometrium was thickest during the luteal phase at 322.6 μm (254.8, 512.2), when plasma progesterone peaked at 102.1 ng/mL (70.1, 198.6) and the optical density for prolactin immunoreactivity was strongest (0.071 ± 0.01 arbitrary units). CONCLUSION The spiny mouse undergoes spontaneous decidualization, demonstrating for the first time menstruation in a rodent. The spiny mouse provides a readily accessible nonprimate model to study the mechanisms of menstrual shedding and repair, and may therefore be useful in furthering studies of human menstrual and pregnancy-associated disorders.
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Kalisch-Smith JI, Simmons DG, Dickinson H, Moritz KM. Review: Sexual dimorphism in the formation, function and adaptation of the placenta. Placenta 2016; 54:10-16. [PMID: 27979377 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure of the embryo or fetus to perturbations in utero can result in intrauterine growth restriction, a primary risk factor for the development of adult disease. However, despite similar exposures, males and females often have altered disease susceptibility or progression from different stages of life. Fetal growth is largely mediated by the placenta, which, like the fetus is genetically XX or XY. The placenta and its associated trophoblast lineages originate from the trophectoderm (TE) of the early embryo. Rodent models (rat, mouse, spiny mouse), have been used extensively to examine placenta development and these have demonstrated the growth trajectory of the placenta in females is generally slower compared to males, and also shows altered adaptive responses to stressful environments. These placental adaptations are likely to depend on the type of stressor, duration, severity and the window of exposure during development. Here we describe the divergent developmental pathways between the male and female placenta contributing to altered differentiation of the TE derived trophoblast subtypes, placental growth, and formation of the placental architecture. Our focus is primarily genetic or environmental perturbations in rodent models which show altered placental responsiveness between sexes. We suggest that perturbations during early placental development may have greater impact on viability and growth of the female fetus whilst those occurring later in gestation may preferentially affect the male fetus. This may be of great relevance to human pregnancies which result from assisted reproductive technologies or complications such as pre-eclampsia and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J I Kalisch-Smith
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - D G Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - H Dickinson
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Australia
| | - K M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Centre for Children's Health Research, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, 4101, Australia.
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Hułas-Stasiak M, Dobrowolski P, Tomaszewska E. Prenatally administered dexamethasone impairs folliculogenesis in spiny mouse offspring. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 28:1038-1048. [PMID: 25562684 DOI: 10.1071/rd14224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to determine whether prenatal dexamethasone treatment has an effect on follicular development and atresia in the ovary of spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) offspring. Dexamethasone (125µg kg-1 bodyweight per day) was administered to pregnant spiny mice from Day 20 of gestation to parturition. The processes of follicle loss were analysed using classical markers of apoptosis (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling reaction, active caspase-3) and autophagy (Lamp1). The present study indicated that dexamethasone reduced the pool of healthy primordial follicles. Moreover, the oocytes from these follicles showed intensive caspase-3 and Lamp1 staining. Surprisingly, dexamethasone caused an increase in the number of secondary follicles; however, most of these follicles were characterised by extensive degeneration of the oocyte and caspase-3 and Lamp1 labelling. Western-blot analysis indicated that the glucocorticoid receptor as well as apoptosis and autophagy markers were more strongly expressed in the DEX-treated group than in the control. On the basis of these findings, we have concluded that dexamethasone impairs spiny mouse folliculogenesis and enhances follicular atresia through induction of autophagy or combined autophagy and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Hułas-Stasiak
- Department of Comparative Anatomy and Anthropology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Akademicka St.19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Piotr Dobrowolski
- Department of Comparative Anatomy and Anthropology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Akademicka St.19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Ewa Tomaszewska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences, Akademicka St. 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
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Blasetti A, Franchini S, Comegna L, Prezioso G, Chiarelli F. Role of nutrition in preventing insulin resistance in children. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2016; 29:247-57. [PMID: 26630690 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2015-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nutrition during prenatal, early postnatal and pubertal period is crucial for the development of insulin resistance and its consequences. During prenatal period fetal environment and nutrition seems to interfere with metabolism programming later in life. The type of dietary carbohydrates, glycemic index, protein, fat and micronutrient content in maternal nutrition could influence insulin sensitivity in the newborn. The effects of lactation on metabolism and nutritional behavior later in life have been studied. Dietary habits and quality of diet during puberty could prevent the onset of a pathological insulin resistance through an adequate distribution of macro- and micronutrients, a diet rich in fibers and vegetables and poor in saturated fats, proteins and sugars. We want to overview the latest evidences on the risk of insulin resistance later in life due to both nutritional behaviors and components during the aforementioned periods of life, following a chronological outline from fetal development to adolescence.
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Creatine for women: a review of the relationship between creatine and the reproductive cycle and female-specific benefits of creatine therapy. Amino Acids 2016; 48:1807-17. [PMID: 26898548 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-016-2199-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The creatine/phosphocreatine/creatine kinase circuit is instrumental in regulating high-energy phosphate metabolism, and the maintenance of cellular energy turnover. The mechanisms by which creatine is able to buffer and regulate cellular energy balance, maintain acid-base balance, and reduce the effects of oxidative stress have led to a large number of studies into the use of creatine supplementation in exercise performance and to treat diseases associated with cellular energy depletion. Some of these studies have identified sex-specific responses to creatine supplementation, as such; there is the perception, that females might be less receptive to the benefits of creatine supplementation and therapy, compared to males. This review will describe the differences in male and female physique and physiology that may account for such differences, and discuss the apparent endocrine modulation of creatine metabolism in females. Hormone-driven changes to endogenous creatine synthesis, creatine transport and creatine kinase expression suggest that significant changes in this cellular energy circuit occur during specific stages of a female's reproductive life, including pregnancy and menopause. Recent studies suggest that creatine supplementation may be highly beneficial for women under certain conditions, such as depression. A greater understanding of these pathways, and the consequences of alterations to creatine bioavailability in females are needed to ensure that creatine is used to full advantage as a dietary supplement to optimize and enhance health outcomes for women.
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Terasaki LS, Gomez J, Schwarz JM. An examination of sex differences in the effects of early-life opiate and alcohol exposure. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2016; 371:20150123. [PMID: 26833841 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early-life exposure to drugs and alcohol is one of the most preventable causes of developmental, behavioural and learning disorders in children. Thus a significant amount of basic, animal and human research has focused on understanding the behavioural consequences and the associated neural effects of exposure to drugs and alcohol during early brain development. Despite this, much of the previous research that has been done on this topic has used predominantly male subjects or rodents. While many of the findings from these male-specific studies may ultimately apply to females, the purpose of this review is to highlight the research that has also examined sex as a factor and found striking differences between the sexes in their response to early-life opiate and alcohol exposure. Finally, we will also provide a framework for scientists interested in examining sex as a factor in future experiments that specifically examine the consequences of early-life drug and alcohol exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurne S Terasaki
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Julie Gomez
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Jaclyn M Schwarz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA
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Bronson SL, Bale TL. The Placenta as a Mediator of Stress Effects on Neurodevelopmental Reprogramming. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:207-18. [PMID: 26250599 PMCID: PMC4677129 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adversity experienced during gestation is a predictor of lifetime neuropsychiatric disease susceptibility. Specifically, maternal stress during pregnancy predisposes offspring to sex-biased neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. Animal models have demonstrated disease-relevant endophenotypes in prenatally stressed offspring and have provided unique insight into potential programmatic mechanisms. The placenta has a critical role in the deleterious and sex-specific effects of maternal stress and other fetal exposures on the developing brain. Stress-induced perturbations of the maternal milieu are conveyed to the embryo via the placenta, the maternal-fetal intermediary responsible for maintaining intrauterine homeostasis. Disruption of vital placental functions can have a significant impact on fetal development, including the brain, outcomes that are largely sex-specific. Here we review the novel involvement of the placenta in the transmission of the maternal adverse environment and effects on the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie L Bronson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Ellery SJ, LaRosa DA, Kett MM, Della Gatta PA, Snow RJ, Walker DW, Dickinson H. Dietary creatine supplementation during pregnancy: a study on the effects of creatine supplementation on creatine homeostasis and renal excretory function in spiny mice. Amino Acids 2015; 48:1819-30. [PMID: 26695944 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-2150-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence obtained from a rodent model of birth asphyxia shows that supplementation of the maternal diet with creatine during pregnancy protects the neonate from multi-organ damage. However, the effect of increasing creatine intake on creatine homeostasis and biosynthesis in females, particularly during pregnancy, is unknown. This study assessed the impact of creatine supplementation on creatine homeostasis, body composition, capacity for de novo creatine synthesis and renal excretory function in non-pregnant and pregnant spiny mice. Mid-gestation pregnant and virgin spiny mice were fed normal chow or chow supplemented with 5 % w/w creatine for 18 days. Weight gain, urinary creatine and electrolyte excretion were assessed during supplementation. At post mortem, body composition was assessed by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or tissues were collected to assess creatine content and mRNA expression of the creatine synthesising enzymes arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) and guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) and the creatine transporter (CrT1). Protein expression of AGAT and GAMT was also assessed by Western blot. Key findings of this study include no changes in body weight or composition with creatine supplementation; increased urinary creatine excretion in supplemented spiny mice, with increased sodium (P < 0.001) and chloride (P < 0.05) excretion in pregnant dams after 3 days of supplementation; lowered renal AGAT mRNA (P < 0.001) and protein (P < 0.001) expressions, and lowered CrT1 mRNA expression in the kidney (P < 0.01) and brain (P < 0.001). Creatine supplementation had minimal impact on creatine homeostasis in either non-pregnant or pregnant spiny mice. Increasing maternal dietary creatine consumption could be a useful treatment for birth asphyxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey J Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St, Clayton, Melbourne, 3168, Australia. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Domenic A LaRosa
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St, Clayton, Melbourne, 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michelle M Kett
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul A Della Gatta
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Burwood Campus, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rod J Snow
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Burwood Campus, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St, Clayton, Melbourne, 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hayley Dickinson
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St, Clayton, Melbourne, 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
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Pruis MGM, Gellhaus A, Kühnel E, Lendvai Á, Bloks VW, Groen AK, Plösch T. Sex-specific placental differences as a contributor to sex-specific metabolic programming? Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2015; 215:127-9. [PMID: 26248617 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. G. M. Pruis
- Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases; Department of Pediatrics; University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
| | - A. Gellhaus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University Hospital of Essen; Essen Germany
| | - E. Kühnel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University Hospital of Essen; Essen Germany
| | - Á. Lendvai
- Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases; Department of Pediatrics; University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
| | - V. W. Bloks
- Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases; Department of Pediatrics; University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
| | - A. K. Groen
- Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases; Department of Pediatrics; University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
- Laboratory Medicine; University of Groningen; University Medical Center Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
| | - T. Plösch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; University Medical Center Groningen; University of Groningen; Groningen the Netherlands
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Abstract
The placenta is an ephemeral but critical organ for the survival of all eutherian mammals and marsupials. It is the primary messenger system between the mother and fetus, where communicational signals, nutrients, waste, gases, and extrinsic factors are exchanged. Although the placenta may buffer the fetus from various environmental insults, placental dysfunction might also contribute to detrimental developmental origins of adult health and disease effects. The placenta of one sex over the other might possess greater ability to respond and buffer against environmental insults. Given the potential role of the placenta in effecting the lifetime health of the offspring, it is not surprising that there has been a resurging interest in this organ, including the Human Placental Project launched by the National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development. In this review, we will compare embryological development of the laboratory mouse and human chorioallantoic placentae. Next, evidence that various species, including humans, exhibit normal sex-dependent structural and functional placental differences will be examined followed by how in utero environmental changes (nutritional state, stress, and exposure to environmental chemicals) might interact with fetal sex to affect this organ. Recent data also suggest that paternal state impacts placental function in a sex-dependent manner. The research to date linking placental maladaptive responses and later developmental origins of adult health and disease effects will be explored. Finally, we will focus on how sex chromosomes and epimutations may contribute to sex-dependent differences in placental function, the unanswered questions, and future directions that warrant further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Departments of Bond Life Sciences Center, Biomedical Sciences, Genetics Area Program, and Research Faculty Member for the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurobehavioral Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211
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36
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Hernandez-Medrano JH, Copping KJ, Hoare A, Wapanaar W, Grivell R, Kuchel T, Miguel-Pacheco G, McMillen IC, Rodgers RJ, Perry VEA. Gestational dietary protein is associated with sex specific decrease in blood flow, fetal heart growth and post-natal blood pressure of progeny. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0125694. [PMID: 25915506 PMCID: PMC4411147 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0125694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY OVERVIEW The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes is higher in pregnancies where the fetus is male. Sex specific differences in feto-placental perfusion indices identified by Doppler assessment have recently been associated with placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction. This study aims to investigate sex specific differences in placental perfusion and to correlate these changes with fetal growth. It represents the largest comprehensive study under field conditions of uterine hemodynamics in a monotocous species, with a similar long gestation period to the human. Primiparous 14 mo heifers in Australia (n=360) and UK (n=180) were either individually or group fed, respectively, diets with differing protein content (18, 14, 10 or 7% crude protein (CP)) from 60 d prior to 98 days post conception (dpc). Fetuses and placentae were excised at 98 dpc (n = 48). Fetal development an median uterine artery blood flow were assessed monthly from 36 dpc until term using B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography. MUA blood flow to the male feto-placental unit increased in early pregnancy associated with increased fetal growth. Protein restriction before and shortly after conception (-60 d up to 23 dpc) increased MUA diameter and indices of velocity during late pregnancy, reduced fetal heart weight in the female fetus and increased heart rate at birth, but decreased systolic blood pressure at six months of age. CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE Sex specific differences both in feto-placental Doppler perfusion indices and response of these indices to dietary perturbations were observed. Further, maternal diet affected development of fetal cardiovascular system associated with altered fetal haemodynamics in utero, with such effects having a sex bias. The results from this study provide further insight into the gender specific circulatory differences present in the fetal period and developing cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan H. Hernandez-Medrano
- School of Veterinary and Medical Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina J. Copping
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Andrew Hoare
- South East Vets, Mt Gambier, South Australia, Australia
| | - Wendela Wapanaar
- School of Veterinary and Medical Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Rosalie Grivell
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Perinatal Medicine, The Womens and Childrens Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tim Kuchel
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Giuliana Miguel-Pacheco
- School of Veterinary and Medical Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | | | - Raymond J. Rodgers
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Viv E. A. Perry
- School of Veterinary and Medical Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Montandon SA, Tzika AC, Martins AF, Chopard B, Milinkovitch MC. Two waves of anisotropic growth generate enlarged follicles in the spiny mouse. EvoDevo 2014; 5:33. [PMID: 25705371 PMCID: PMC4335386 DOI: 10.1186/2041-9139-5-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammals exhibit a remarkable variety of phenotypes and comparative studies using novel model species are needed to uncover the evolutionary developmental mechanisms generating this diversity. Here, we undertake a developmental biology and numerical modeling approach to investigate the development of skin appendages in the spiny mouse, Acomys dimidiatus. RESULTS We demonstrate that Acomys spines, possibly involved in display and protection, are enlarged awl hairs with a concave morphology. The Acomys spines originate from enlarged placodes that are characterized by a rapid downwards growth which results in voluminous follicles. The dermal condensation (dermal papilla) at the core of the follicle is very large and exhibits a curved geometry. Given its off-centered position, the dermal papilla generates two waves of anisotropic proliferation, first of the posterior matrix, then of the anterior inner root sheath (IRS). Higher in the follicle, the posterior and anterior cortex cross-section areas substantially decrease due to cortex cell elongation and accumulation of keratin intermediate filaments. Milder keratinization in the medulla gives rise to a foamy material that eventually collapses under the combined compression of the anterior IRS and elongation of the cortex cells. Simulations, using linear elasticity theory and the finite-element method, indicate that these processes are sufficient to replicate the time evolution of the Acomys spine layers and the final shape of the emerging spine shaft. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses reveal how hair follicle morphogenesis has been altered during the evolution of the Acomys lineage, resulting in a shift from ancestral awl follicles to enlarged asymmetrical spines. This study contributes to a better understanding of the evolutionary developmental mechanisms that generated the great diversity of skin appendage phenotypes observed in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A Montandon
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, Laboratory of Artificial & Natural Evolution (LANE), University of Geneva, Sciences III, 30, Quai Ernest-Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Athanasia C Tzika
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, Laboratory of Artificial & Natural Evolution (LANE), University of Geneva, Sciences III, 30, Quai Ernest-Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - António F Martins
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, Laboratory of Artificial & Natural Evolution (LANE), University of Geneva, Sciences III, 30, Quai Ernest-Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Chopard
- Department of Computer Science, Scientific and Parallel Computing Group, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michel C Milinkovitch
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, Laboratory of Artificial & Natural Evolution (LANE), University of Geneva, Sciences III, 30, Quai Ernest-Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
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Dickinson H, Moritz KM, Kett MM. A comparative study of renal function in male and female spiny mice - sex specific responses to a high salt challenge. Biol Sex Differ 2013; 4:21. [PMID: 24321563 PMCID: PMC4029144 DOI: 10.1186/2042-6410-4-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is a significant body of evidence to suggest that hormone levels, receptor density and structural differences between males and females can significantly alter renal hemodynamics. We compared the renal hemodynamic and excretory profile of female and male spiny mice under baseline conditions and in response to a high-NaCl diet. Methods Adult male and female spiny mice were fed either a normal or high salt diet for 7 days. Renal excretory profile was obtained from 24 h urine samples, and renal hemodynamic measurements using anaesthetised renal clearance techniques. Kidneys were excised, weighed and frozen for qPCR analysis. Results Under basal conditions, conscious and anaesthetised renal functions were similar between male and female spiny mice when adjusted for body weights. Male and female spiny mice on the high-NaCl diet had significantly greater GFR than sex matched controls (PDIET < 0.001). However the magnitude of the effect of salt was sex dependent (PSEX < 0.001; PINT < 0.01). Male spiny mice showed a greater increase in GFR (84% higher than normal salt males) compared to females (33% higher than normal salt females), despite similar increases in renal plasma flow. In response to 7 days of high salt diet, female spiny mice showed a greater increase in 24-hour water consumption (45% more) and urinary output (50% more) compared to males (PINT < 0.01). These sex differences could not be explained by differences in renal expression of the V2R or AQP3 channel. Conclusion These studies have identified major differences between male and female spiny mice in their renal response to a high-NaCl load suggesting that renal hemodynamics may be differentially regulated for the sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Dickinson
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
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O'Connell B, Moritz K, Walker D, Dickinson H. Treatment of pregnant spiny mice at mid gestation with a synthetic glucocorticoid has sex-dependent effects on placental glycogen stores. Placenta 2013; 34:932-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.06.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Danielsen I, Granström C, Haldorsson T, Rytter D, Hammer Bech B, Henriksen TB, Vaag AA, Olsen SF. Dietary glycemic index during pregnancy is associated with biomarkers of the metabolic syndrome in offspring at age 20 years. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64887. [PMID: 23741411 PMCID: PMC3669023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Growing evidence indicates that metabolic syndrome is rooted in fetal life with a potential key role of nutrition during pregnancy. The objective of the study was to assess the possible associations between the dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) during pregnancy and biomarkers of the metabolic syndrome in young adult offspring. METHODS Dietary GI and GL were assessed by questionnaires and interviews in gestation week 30 and offspring were clinically examined at the age of 20 years. Analyses based on 428 mother-offspring dyads were adjusted for maternal smoking during pregnancy, height, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), education, energy intake, and the offspring's ambient level of physical activity. In addition, possible confounding by gestational diabetes mellitus was taken into account. OUTCOME MEASURES Waist circumference, blood pressure, HOMA insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and plasma levels of fasting glucose, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, insulin, and leptin were measured in the offspring. RESULTS Significant associations were found between dietary GI in pregnancy and HOMA-IR (the relative increase in HOMA-IR per 10 units' GI increase was 1.09 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.16], p = 0.02), insulin (1.09 [95% CI: 1.02, 1.16], p = 0.01) and leptin (1.21 [95% CI: 1.06, 1.38], p = 0.01) in the offspring; whereas no associations were detected for GL. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggests that high dietary GI in pregnancy may affect levels of markers for the metabolic syndrome in young adult offspring in a potentially harmful direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Danielsen
- Centre for Fetal Programming, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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