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Vali A, Beaupère C, Loubaresse A, Dalle H, Fève B, Grosfeld A, Moldes M. Effects of glucocorticoids on adipose tissue plasticity. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2024; 85:259-262. [PMID: 38871499 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2024.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) play an important role in metabolic adaptation, regulating carbohydrate-lipid homeostasis and the immune system. Because they also have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, synthetic analogues of GCs have been developed and are widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions and in organ transplantation. GCs are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world. However, long term and high GC doses can cause side effects such as GC-induced diabetes and lipodystrophy. In recent years, a large number of independent studies have reported the effects of constitutive and adipocyte-specific deletion of the GC receptor (GR) in mice under different diets and treatments, resulting in contrasting phenotypes. To avoid potential compensatory mechanisms associated with the constitutive adipocyte GR silencing during adipose tissue development, our team has generated an inducible mouse model of GR deletion specifically in the adipocyte (AdipoGR-KO). Using this mouse model, we were able to demonstrate the critical role of the adipocyte GR in GC-induced metabolic changes. Indeed, under conditions of hypercorticism, AdipoGR-KO mice showed an improvement in glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, as well as in lipid profile, despite a massive increase in adiposity. This result is explained by a densification of adipose tissue vascularization, highlighting the repressive role of adipocyte GR in the healthy expansion of this tissue. Our work has largely contributed to the demonstration of the important role of the adipocyte GR in the physiology and pathophysiology of the adipose tissue and its impact on energy homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vali
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Carine Beaupère
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Alya Loubaresse
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Héloïse Dalle
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Bruno Fève
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France; Service endocrinologie, CRMR PRISIS, centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Grosfeld
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Marthe Moldes
- Centre de recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75012 Paris, France; Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Sorbonne université, Inserm, 75013 Paris, France.
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Vali A, Dalle H, Loubaresse A, Gilleron J, Havis E, Garcia M, Beaupère C, Denis C, Roblot N, Poussin K, Ledent T, Bouillet B, Cormont M, Tanti JF, Capeau J, Vatier C, Fève B, Grosfeld A, Moldes M. Adipocyte Glucocorticoid Receptor Activation With High Glucocorticoid Doses Impairs Healthy Adipose Tissue Expansion by Repressing Angiogenesis. Diabetes 2024; 73:211-224. [PMID: 37963392 DOI: 10.2337/db23-0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
In humans, glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly prescribed because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, high doses of GCs often lead to side effects, including diabetes and lipodystrophy. We recently reported that adipocyte glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-deficient (AdipoGR-KO) mice under corticosterone (CORT) treatment exhibited a massive adipose tissue (AT) expansion associated with a paradoxical improvement of metabolic health compared with control mice. However, whether GR may control adipose development remains unclear. Here, we show a specific induction of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and proangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression in GR-deficient adipocytes of AdipoGR-KO mice compared with control mice, together with an increased adipose vascular network, as assessed by three-dimensional imaging. GR activation reduced HIF-1α recruitment to the Vegfa promoter resulting from Hif-1α downregulation at the transcriptional and posttranslational levels. Importantly, in CORT-treated AdipoGR-KO mice, the blockade of VEGFA by a soluble decoy receptor prevented AT expansion and the healthy metabolic phenotype. Finally, in subcutaneous AT from patients with Cushing syndrome, higher VEGFA expression was associated with a better metabolic profile. Collectively, these results highlight that adipocyte GR negatively controls AT expansion and metabolic health through the downregulation of the major angiogenic effector VEGFA and inhibition of vascular network development. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vali
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Héloïse Dalle
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Alya Loubaresse
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Gilleron
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, C3M, Team Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology of Obesity, Nice, France
| | - Emmanuelle Havis
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement, Institut Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Marie Garcia
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Carine Beaupère
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Clémentine Denis
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Natacha Roblot
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Karine Poussin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Tatiana Ledent
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Bouillet
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Mireille Cormont
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, C3M, Team Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology of Obesity, Nice, France
| | - Jean-François Tanti
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, C3M, Team Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology of Obesity, Nice, France
| | - Jacqueline Capeau
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Camille Vatier
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service Endocrinologie, CRMR PRISIS, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Fève
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service Endocrinologie, CRMR PRISIS, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Grosfeld
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Marthe Moldes
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
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Amatya S, Tietje-Mckinney D, Mueller S, Petrillo MG, Woolard MD, Bharrhan S, Orr AW, Kevil CG, Cidlowski JA, Cruz-Topete D. Adipocyte Glucocorticoid Receptor Inhibits Immune Regulatory Genes to Maintain Immune Cell Homeostasis in Adipose Tissue. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad143. [PMID: 37738419 PMCID: PMC10558062 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids acting via the glucocorticoid receptors (GR) are key regulators of metabolism and the stress response. However, uncontrolled or excessive GR signaling adversely affects adipose tissue, including endocrine, immune, and metabolic functions. Inflammation of the adipose tissue promotes systemic metabolic dysfunction; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of adipocyte GR in regulating genes associated with adipose tissue inflammation are poorly understood. We performed in vivo studies using adipocyte-specific GR knockout mice in conjunction with in vitro studies to understand the contribution of adipocyte GR in regulating adipose tissue immune homeostasis. Our findings show that adipocyte-specific GR signaling regulates adipokines at both mRNA and plasma levels and immune regulatory (Coch, Pdcd1, Cemip, and Cxcr2) mRNA gene expression, which affects myeloid immune cell presence in white adipose tissue. We found that, in adipocytes, GR directly influences Cxcr2. This chemokine receptor promotes immune cell migration, indirectly affecting Pdcd1 and Cemip gene expression in nonadipocyte or stromal cells. Our findings suggest that GR adipocyte signaling suppresses inflammatory signals, maintaining immune homeostasis. We also found that GR signaling in adipose tissue in response to stress is sexually dimorphic. Understanding the molecular relationship between GR signaling and adipose tissue inflammation could help develop potential targets to improve local and systemic inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shripa Amatya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences and Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Dylan Tietje-Mckinney
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Schaefer Mueller
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Maria G Petrillo
- Department of Health and Human Services, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Matthew D Woolard
- Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences and Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Sushma Bharrhan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Anthony Wayne Orr
- Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences and Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Christopher G Kevil
- Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences and Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Department of Health and Human Services, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Diana Cruz-Topete
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences and Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center—Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
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4
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Nota MH, Nicolas S, O’Leary OF, Nolan YM. Outrunning a bad diet: interactions between exercise and a Western-style diet for adolescent mental health, metabolism and microbes. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 149:105147. [PMID: 36990371 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of biological, psychological and social changes, and the peak time for the emergence of mental health problems. During this life stage, brain plasticity including hippocampal neurogenesis is increased, which is crucial for cognitive functions and regulation of emotional responses. The hippocampus is especially susceptible to environmental and lifestyle influences, mediated by changes in physiological systems, resulting in enhanced brain plasticity but also an elevated risk for developing mental health problems. Indeed, adolescence is accompanied by increased activation of the maturing hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, sensitivity to metabolic changes due to increased nutritional needs and hormonal changes, and gut microbiota maturation. Importantly, dietary habits and levels of physical activity significantly impact these systems. In this review, the interactions between exercise and Western-style diets, which are high in fat and sugar, on adolescent stress susceptibility, metabolism and the gut microbiota are explored. We provide an overview of current knowledge on implications of these interactions for hippocampal function and adolescent mental health, and speculate on potential mechanisms which require further investigation.
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5
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Herman JP. The neuroendocrinology of stress: Glucocorticoid signaling mechanisms. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 137:105641. [PMID: 34954409 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid signaling plays major roles in energy homeostasis and adaptation to adversity, and dysregulation of this process is linked to systemic and psychological pathology. Over the last several decades, new work has challenged many of the long-standing assumptions regarding regulation of glucocorticoid secretion and glucocorticoid signaling mechanisms, revealing an exquisite complexity that accompanies the important and perhaps global role of these hormones in physiological and psychological regulation. New findings have included discovery of membrane signaling, direct neural control of the adrenal, a role for pulsatile glucocorticoid release in glucocorticoid receptor signaling, marked sex differences in brain glucocorticoid biology, and salutary as well as deleterious roles for glucocorticoids in long- and short-term adaptations to stress. This review covers some of the major lessons learned in the area of mechanisms of glucocorticoid signaling, and discusses how these may inform the field moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Herman
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA; Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA; Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, USA
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6
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Ruigrok SR, Abbink MR, Geertsema J, Kuindersma JE, Stöberl N, van der Beek EM, Lucassen PJ, Schipper L, Korosi A. Effects of Early-Life Stress, Postnatal Diet Modulation and Long-Term Western-Style Diet on Peripheral and Central Inflammatory Markers. Nutrients 2021; 13:288. [PMID: 33498469 PMCID: PMC7909521 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress (ES) exposure increases the risk of developing obesity. Breastfeeding can markedly decrease this risk, and it is thought that the physical properties of the lipid droplets in human milk contribute to this benefit. A concept infant milk formula (IMF) has been developed that mimics these physical properties of human milk (Nuturis®, N-IMF). Previously, we have shown that N-IMF reduces, while ES increases, western-style diet (WSD)-induced fat accumulation in mice. Peripheral and central inflammation are considered to be important for obesity development. We therefore set out to test the effects of ES, Nuturis® and WSD on adipose tissue inflammatory gene expression and microglia in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. ES was induced in mice by limiting the nesting and bedding material from postnatal day (P) 2 to P9. Mice were fed a standard IMF (S-IMF) or N-IMF from P16 to P42, followed by a standard diet (STD) or WSD until P230. ES modulated adipose tissue inflammatory gene expression early in life, while N-IMF had lasting effects into adulthood. Centrally, ES led to a higher microglia density and more amoeboid microglia at P9. In adulthood, WSD increased the number of amoeboid microglia, and while ES exposure increased microglia coverage, Nuturis® reduced the numbers of amoeboid microglia upon the WSD challenge. These results highlight the impact of the early environment on central and peripheral inflammatory profiles, which may be key in the vulnerability to develop metabolic derangements later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvie R. Ruigrok
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | - Maralinde R. Abbink
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | - Jorine Geertsema
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | - Jesse E. Kuindersma
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | - Nina Stöberl
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | - Eline M. van der Beek
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Paul J. Lucassen
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
| | | | - Aniko Korosi
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.R.); (M.R.A.); (J.G.); (J.E.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.L.)
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7
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Pregnane steroidogenesis is altered by HIV-1 Tat and morphine: Physiological allopregnanolone is protective against neurotoxic and psychomotor effects. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 12:100211. [PMID: 32258256 PMCID: PMC7109513 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnane steroids, particularly allopregnanolone (AlloP), are neuroprotective in response to central insult. While unexplored in vivo, AlloP may confer protection against the neurological dysfunction associated with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). The HIV-1 regulatory protein, trans-activator of transcription (Tat), is neurotoxic and its expression in mice increases anxiety-like behavior; an effect that can be ameliorated by progesterone, but not when 5α-reduction is blocked. Given that Tat's neurotoxic effects involve mitochondrial dysfunction and can be worsened with opioid exposure, we hypothesized that Tat and/or combined morphine would perturb steroidogenesis in mice, promoting neuronal death, and that exogenous AlloP would rescue these effects. Like other models of neural injury, conditionally inducing HIV-1 Tat in transgenic mice significantly increased the central synthesis of pregnenolone and progesterone's 5α-reduced metabolites, including AlloP, while decreasing central deoxycorticosterone (independent of changes in plasma). Morphine significantly increased brain and plasma concentrations of several steroids (including progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and their metabolites) likely via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress axis. Tat, but not morphine, caused glucocorticoid resistance in primary splenocytes. In neurons, Tat depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential and increased cell death. Physiological concentrations of AlloP (0.1, 1, or 10 nM) reversed these effects. High-concentration AlloP (100 nM) was neurotoxic in combination with morphine. Tat induction in transgenic mice potentiated the psychomotor effects of acute morphine, while exogenous AlloP (1.0 mg/kg, but not 0.5 mg/kg) was ameliorative. Data demonstrate that steroidogenesis is altered by HIV-1 Tat or morphine and that physiological AlloP attenuates resulting neurotoxic and psychomotor effects.
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Rouhiainen A, Kulesskaya N, Mennesson M, Misiewicz Z, Sipilä T, Sokolowska E, Trontti K, Urpa L, McEntegart W, Saarnio S, Hyytiä P, Hovatta I. The bradykinin system in stress and anxiety in humans and mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19437. [PMID: 31857655 PMCID: PMC6923437 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55947-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological research in mice and human genetic analyses suggest that the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) may regulate anxiety. We examined the role of the KKS in anxiety and stress in both species. In human genetic association analysis, variants in genes for the bradykinin precursor (KNG1) and the bradykinin receptors (BDKRB1 and BDKRB2) were associated with anxiety disorders (p < 0.05). In mice, however, neither acute nor chronic stress affected B1 receptor gene or protein expression, and B1 receptor antagonists had no effect on anxiety tests measuring approach-avoidance conflict. We thus focused on the B2 receptor and found that mice injected with the B2 antagonist WIN 64338 had lowered levels of a physiological anxiety measure, the stress-induced hyperthermia (SIH), vs controls. In the brown adipose tissue, a major thermoregulator, WIN 64338 increased expression of the mitochondrial regulator Pgc1a and the bradykinin precursor gene Kng2 was upregulated after cold stress. Our data suggests that the bradykinin system modulates a variety of stress responses through B2 receptor-mediated effects, but systemic antagonists of the B2 receptor were not anxiolytic in mice. Genetic variants in the bradykinin receptor genes may predispose to anxiety disorders in humans by affecting their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Rouhiainen
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Natalia Kulesskaya
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marie Mennesson
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,SleepWell Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zuzanna Misiewicz
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tessa Sipilä
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ewa Sokolowska
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kalevi Trontti
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,SleepWell Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lea Urpa
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - William McEntegart
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Suvi Saarnio
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Petri Hyytiä
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Iiris Hovatta
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,SleepWell Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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9
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Luijten IHN, Cannon B, Nedergaard J. Glucocorticoids and Brown Adipose Tissue: Do glucocorticoids really inhibit thermogenesis? Mol Aspects Med 2019; 68:42-59. [PMID: 31323252 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A reduction in the thermogenic activity of brown adipose tissue (BAT) is presently discussed as a possible determinant for the development of obesity in humans. One group of endogenous factors that could potentially affect BAT activity is the glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisol). We analyse here studies examining the effects of alterations in glucocorticoid signaling on BAT recruitment and thermogenic capacity. We find that irrespective of which manipulation of glucocorticoid signaling is examined, a seemingly homogeneous picture of lowered thermogenic capacity due to glucocorticoid stimulation is apparently obtained: e.g. lowered uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) protein levels per mg protein, and an increased lipid accumulation in BAT. However, further analyses generally indicate that these effects result from a dilution effect rather than a true decrease in total capacity; the tissue may thus be said to be in a state of pseudo-atrophy. However, under conditions of very low physiological stimulation of BAT, glucocorticoids may truly inhibit Ucp1 gene expression and consequently lower total UCP1 protein levels, but the metabolic effects of this reduction are probably minor. It is thus unlikely that glucocorticoids affect organismal metabolism and induce the development of obesity through alterations of BAT activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ineke H N Luijten
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Barbara Cannon
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Nedergaard
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Balsevich G, Abizaid A, Chen A, Karatsoreos IN, Schmidt MV. Stress and glucocorticoid modulation of feeding and metabolism. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 11:100171. [PMID: 31193462 PMCID: PMC6529856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This perspective highlights research presented as part of the symposium entitled, “Stress and Glucocorticoid Modulation of Feeding and Metabolism” at the 2018 Neurobiology of Stress Workshop held in Banff, AB, Canada. The symposium comprised five researchers at different career stages who each study different aspects of the interaction between the stress response and metabolic control. Their collective results reveal the complexity of this relationship in terms of behavioural and physiological outcomes. Their work emphasizes the need to consider the level of interaction (cellular, tissue, systems) as well as the timing and context in which the interaction is studied. Rather than a comprehensive review on the work presented at the Symposium, here we discuss recurring themes that emerged at the biennial workshop, which address new avenues of research that will drive the field forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Balsevich
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - A Abizaid
- Institute of Neuroscience, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - A Chen
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstrasse 2 - 10, Munich, 80804, Germany
| | - I N Karatsoreos
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, 1815 Ferdinand's Lane, Pullman, WA, 99164, United States
| | - M V Schmidt
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstrasse 2 - 10, Munich, 80804, Germany
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11
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de Kloet ER, de Kloet SF, de Kloet CS, de Kloet AD. Top-down and bottom-up control of stress-coping. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12675. [PMID: 30578574 PMCID: PMC6519262 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this 30th anniversary issue review, we focus on the glucocorticoid modulation of limbic-prefrontocortical circuitry during stress-coping. This action of the stress hormone is mediated by mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) that are co-expressed abundantly in these higher brain regions. Via both receptor types, the glucocorticoids demonstrate, in various contexts, rapid nongenomic and slower genomic actions that coordinate consecutive stages of information processing. MR-mediated action optimises stress-coping, whereas, in a complementary fashion, the memory storage of the selected coping strategy is promoted via GR. We highlight the involvement of adipose tissue in the allocation of energy resources to central regulation of stress reactions, point to still poorly understood neuronal ensembles in the prefrontal cortex that underlie cognitive flexibility critical for effective coping, and evaluate the role of cortisol as a pleiotropic regulator in vulnerability to, and treatment of, trauma-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edo R. de Kloet
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Sybren F. de Kloet
- Department of Integrative NeurophysiologyCenter for Neurogenomics and Cognitive ResearchVU‐University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Annette D. de Kloet
- Department of Physiology and Functional GenomicsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFlorida
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12
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Rabasa C, Askevik K, Schéle E, Hu M, Vogel H, Dickson SL. Divergent Metabolic Effects of Acute Versus Chronic Repeated Forced Swim Stress in the Rat. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2019; 27:427-433. [PMID: 30703287 PMCID: PMC6590371 DOI: 10.1002/oby.22390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study sought to examine divergence regarding the impact of acute versus chronic repeated stress on energy balance. METHODS Rats were exposed to either chronic repeated forced swim (FS) stress for 7 days or an acute stress (a single FS). Body weight and food intake were measured daily. Metabolic parameters explored included brown adipose tissue (BAT) weight and activity. RESULTS Chronic repeated FS stress decreased body weight and caloric efficiency. It also increased the relative weight of BAT. The same stressor delivered only once did not alter adrenal or BAT weight, but it did increase the metabolic activity of BAT. In stress-naive rats, acute FS stress induced an anorexigenic response during the first day after the stressor that caused a reduction in body weight (that persisted for 4 days). By contrast, the chronic FS rats did not show an anorexigenic response after the final stressor, and there was no change in body weight during the following 4 days. CONCLUSIONS Rats exposed to chronic repeated FS stress adapt to the stressor over time; they become less sensitive to its anorexigenic effects and its metabolic effects in BAT, adaptations that ultimately reduce sensitivity to the weight-lowering effects of an acute stressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rabasa
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Kaisa Askevik
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Erik Schéle
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Traditional Chinese MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Heike Vogel
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Experimental DiabetologyGerman Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam‐RehbrueckeNuthetalGermany
| | - Suzanne L. Dickson
- Department of Physiology/EndocrineInstitute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
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13
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Dalle H, Garcia M, Antoine B, Boehm V, Do TTH, Buyse M, Ledent T, Lamazière A, Magnan C, Postic C, Denis RG, Luquet S, Fève B, Moldes M. Adipocyte Glucocorticoid Receptor Deficiency Promotes Adipose Tissue Expandability and Improves the Metabolic Profile Under Corticosterone Exposure. Diabetes 2019; 68:305-317. [PMID: 30455377 DOI: 10.2337/db17-1577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Widely used for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, glucocorticoids are nonetheless responsible for the development of diabetes and lipodystrophy. Despite an increasing number of studies focused on the adipocyte glucocorticoid receptor (GR), its precise role in the molecular mechanisms of these complications has not been elucidated. In keeping with this goal, we generated a conditional adipocyte-specific murine model of GR invalidation (AdipoGR knockout [KO] mice). Interestingly, when administered a corticosterone treatment to mimic hypercorticism conditions, AdipoGR-KO mice exhibited an improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This was related to the adipose-specific activation of the insulin-signaling pathway, which contributed to fat mass expansion, as well as a shift toward an anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization in adipose tissue of AdipoGR-KO animals. Moreover, these mice were protected against ectopic lipid accumulation in the liver and displayed an improved lipid profile, contributing to their overall healthier phenotype. Altogether, our results indicate that adipocyte GR is a key factor of adipose tissue expansion and glucose and lipid metabolism control, which should be taken into account in the further design of adipocyte GR-selective modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Dalle
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Marie Garcia
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Bénédicte Antoine
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Vanessa Boehm
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Thi Thu Huong Do
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Marion Buyse
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- Pharmacy Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Tatiana Ledent
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Antonin Lamazière
- INSERM, CNRS UMR 70203, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, École Normale Supérieure, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Magnan
- Biologie Fonctionelle & Adaptative, CNRS UMR 8251, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Postic
- INSERM, U1016, Cochin Institute, Paris, France
- CNRS UMR 8104, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Raphaël George Denis
- Biologie Fonctionelle & Adaptative, CNRS UMR 8251, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Serge Luquet
- Biologie Fonctionelle & Adaptative, CNRS UMR 8251, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Fève
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- Endocrinology Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Marthe Moldes
- INSERM, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Hospital-Universitary Institute, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
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14
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Wang LA, de Kloet AD, Smeltzer MD, Cahill KM, Hiller H, Bruce EB, Pioquinto DJ, Ludin JA, Katovich MJ, Raizada MK, Krause EG. Coupling corticotropin-releasing-hormone and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 dampens stress responsiveness in male mice. Neuropharmacology 2018; 133:85-93. [PMID: 29360543 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study used mice to evaluate whether coupling expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) creates central interactions that blunt endocrine and behavioral responses to psychogenic stress. Central administration of diminazene aceturate, an ACE2 activator, had no effect on restraint-induced activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis; however, mice that ubiquitously overexpress ACE2 had reduced plasma corticosterone (CORT) and pituitary expression of POMC mRNA. The Cre-LoxP system was used to restrict ACE2 overexpression to CRH synthesizing cells and probe whether HPA axis suppression was the result of central ACE2 and CRH interactions. Within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), mice with ACE2 overexpression directed to CRH had a ≈2.5 fold increase in ACE2 mRNA, which co-localized with CRH mRNA. Relative to controls, mice overexpressing ACE2 in CRH cells had a decreased CORT response to restraint as well as decreased CRH mRNA in the PVN and CEA and POMC mRNA in the pituitary. Administration of ACTH similarly increased plasma CORT, indicating that the blunted HPA axis activation that accompanies ACE2 overexpression in CRH cells is centrally mediated. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed to determine whether the decreased HPA axis activation was predictive of anxiolysis. Mice with ACE2 overexpression directed to CRH cells displayed decreased anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze and open field when compared to that of controls. Collectively, these results suggest that exogenous ACE2 suppresses CRH synthesis, which alters the central processing of psychogenic stress, thereby blunting HPA axis activation and attenuating anxiety-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei A Wang
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Annette D de Kloet
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 32611, United States; Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Michael D Smeltzer
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Karlena M Cahill
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Helmut Hiller
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Erin B Bruce
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - David J Pioquinto
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Jacob A Ludin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Michael J Katovich
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Mohan K Raizada
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 32611, United States; Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, 32611, United States
| | - Eric G Krause
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 32611, United States; Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, 32611, United States.
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15
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Abstract
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that play a key role in metabolic adaptations during stress, such as fasting and starvation, in order to maintain plasma glucose levels. Excess and chronic glucocorticoid exposure, however, causes metabolic syndrome including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia. Studies in animal models of metabolic disorders frequently demonstrate that suppressing glucocorticoid signaling improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic profiles. Glucocorticoids convey their signals through an intracellular glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which is a transcriptional regulator. The adipocyte is one cell type that contributes to whole body metabolic homeostasis under the influence of GR. Glucocorticoids' functions on adipose tissues are complex. Depending on various physiological or pathophysiological states as well as distinct fat depots, glucocorticoids can either increase or decrease lipid storage in adipose tissues. In rodents, glucocorticoids have been shown to reduce the thermogenic activity of brown adipocytes. However, in human acute glucocorticoid exposure, glucocorticoids act to promote thermogenesis. In this article, we will review the recent studies on the mechanisms underlying the complex metabolic functions of GR in adipocytes. These include studies of the metabolic outcomes of adipocyte specific GR knockout mice and identification of novel GR primary target genes that mediate glucocorticoid action in adipocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Lee
- Endocrinology Graduate Program and Department of Nutritional Science & Toxicology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3104, USA
| | - Charles A Harris
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Jen-Chywan Wang
- Endocrinology Graduate Program and Department of Nutritional Science & Toxicology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3104, USA
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16
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Whirledge S, DeFranco DB. Glucocorticoid Signaling in Health and Disease: Insights From Tissue-Specific GR Knockout Mice. Endocrinology 2018; 159:46-64. [PMID: 29029225 PMCID: PMC5761604 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are adrenally produced hormones critically involved in development, general physiology, and control of inflammation. Since their discovery, glucocorticoids have been widely used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions. However, high doses or prolonged use leads to a number of side effects throughout the body, which preclude their clinical utility. The primary actions of glucocorticoids are mediated by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a transcription factor that regulates many complex signaling pathways. Although GR is nearly ubiquitous throughout the body, glucocorticoids exhibit cell- and tissue-specific effects. For example, glucocorticoids stimulate glucose production in the liver, reduce glucose uptake in the skeletal muscle, and decrease insulin secretion from the pancreatic β-cells. Mouse models represent an important approach to understanding the dynamic functions of GR signaling in normal physiology, disease, and resistance. In the absence of a viable GR null model, gene-targeting techniques utilizing promoter-driven recombination have provided an opportunity to characterize the tissue-specific actions of GR. The aim of the present review is to describe the organ systems in which GR has been conditionally deleted and summarize the functions ascribed to glucocorticoid action in those tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Whirledge
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520
| | - Donald B. DeFranco
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260
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17
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de Kloet AD, Herman JP. Fat-brain connections: Adipocyte glucocorticoid control of stress and metabolism. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 48:50-57. [PMID: 29042142 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids act via multiple mechanisms to mobilize energy for maintenance and restoration of homeostasis. In adipose tissue, glucocorticoids can promote lipolysis and facilitate adipocyte differentiation/growth, serving both energy-mobilizing and restorative processes during negative energy balance. Recent data suggest that adipose-dependent feedback may also be involved in regulation of stress responses. Adipocyte glucocorticoid receptor (GR) deletion causes increased HPA axis stress reactivity, due to a loss of negative feedback signals into the CNS. The fat-to-brain signal may be mediated by neuronal mechanisms, release of adipokines or increased lipolysis. The ability of adipose GRs to inhibit psychogenic as well as metabolic stress responses suggests that (1) feedback regulation of the HPA axis occurs across multiple bodily compartments, and (2) fat tissue integrates psychogenic stress signals. These studies support a link between stress biology and energy metabolism, a connection that has clear relevance for numerous disease states and their comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette D de Kloet
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - James P Herman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States.
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18
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Rubin RL. Mice Housed at Elevated Vivarium Temperatures Display Enhanced T-cell Response and Survival to Francisella tularensis. Comp Med 2017; 67:491-497. [PMID: 29212580 PMCID: PMC5713163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The inability to translate findings from studies performed in mouse models to the corresponding human condition is well known, especially those involving infectious, atherosclerotic, and other inflammatory diseases. We hypothesize that mice fail to a mount robust or adequate immune response to infectious agents because of physiologic effects of cold stress due to housing temperatures below the mouse thermoneutral zone (TNZ). This hypothesis was tested by comparing the immune response to the Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain in mice housed at a typical vivarium temperature, which is below the TNZ, with that of mice housed at a temperature near their TNZ. Mice maintained at 28 °C displayed elevated antigen-specific T-cell responses compared with mice housed at 22 °C and survived intranasal challenge that was fatal to immunized mice at 22 °C. These results demonstrate that cold stress due to housing below the mouse TNZ results in a blunted immune response and may compromise their translational value a models for infectious diseases and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Rubin
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico;,
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19
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Infante M, Armani A, Mammi C, Fabbri A, Caprio M. Impact of Adrenal Steroids on Regulation of Adipose Tissue. Compr Physiol 2017; 7:1425-1447. [PMID: 28915330 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c160037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Corticosteroids are secreted by the adrenal glands and control the functions of adipose tissue via the activation of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR). In turn, adipocytes release a large variety of adipokines into the bloodstream, regulating the function of several organs and tissues, including the adrenal glands, hereby controlling corticosteroid production. In adipose tissue, the activation of the MR by glucocorticoids (GC) and aldosterone affects important processes such as adipocyte differentiation, oxidative stress, autophagic flux, adipokine expression as well as local production of GC through upregulation of the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1). Notably, the proinflammatory responses induced by the MR are counteracted by activation of the GR, whose activity inhibits the expression of inflammatory adipokines. Both GR and MR are deeply involved in adipogenesis and adipose expansion; hence pharmacological blockade of these two receptors has proven effective against adipose tissue dysfunction in experimental models of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS), suggesting a potential use for MR and GR antagonists in these clinical settings. Importantly, obesity and Cushing's syndrome (CS) share metabolic similarities and are characterized by high levels of circulating corticosteroids, which in turn are able to deeply affect adipose tissue. In addition, pharmacological approaches aimed at reducing aldosterone and GC levels, by means of the inhibition of CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) or 11β-HSD1, represent alternative strategies to counter the detrimental effects of excessive levels of corticosteroids, which are often observed in obesity and, more general, in MetS. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:1425-1447, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Infante
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Systems Medicine, CTO A. Alesini Hospital, ASL Roma 2, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Mammi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Fabbri
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Systems Medicine, CTO A. Alesini Hospital, ASL Roma 2, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy.,Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
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20
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21
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Abstract
Glucocorticoids via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) have effects on a variety of cell types, eliciting important physiological responses via changes in gene expression and signaling. Although decades of research have illuminated the mechanism of how this important steroid receptor controls gene expression using
in vitro and cell culture–based approaches, how GR responds to changes in external signals
in vivo under normal and pathological conditions remains elusive. The goal of this review is to highlight recent work on GR action in fat cells and liver to affect metabolism
in vivo and the role GR ligands and receptor phosphorylation play in calibrating signaling outputs by GR in the brain in health and disease. We also suggest that both the brain and fat tissue communicate to affect physiology and behavior and that understanding this “brain-fat axis” will enable a more complete understanding of metabolic diseases and inform new ways to target them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Garabedian
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, Alexandria Center for Life Sciences, 450 East 29th Street, Room 324, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Charles A Harris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Freddy Jeanneteau
- Departments of Physiology and Neuroscience, Institute of Functional Genomics, INSERM U1191, CNRS UMR5203, University of Montpellier, 34094 Montpellier, France
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22
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Yam KY, Naninck EFG, Abbink MR, la Fleur SE, Schipper L, van den Beukel JC, Grefhorst A, Oosting A, van der Beek EM, Lucassen PJ, Korosi A. Exposure to chronic early-life stress lastingly alters the adipose tissue, the leptin system and changes the vulnerability to western-style diet later in life in mice. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 77:186-195. [PMID: 28088658 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2016.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Early-life stress (ES) increases the vulnerability to develop psychopathologies and cognitive decline in adulthood. Interestingly, this is often comorbid with metabolic disorders, such as obesity. However, it is unclear whether ES leads to lasting metabolic changes and to what extent this is associated with the ES-induced cognitive impairments. Here, we used an established chronic ES mouse model (from postnatal day (P) 2 to P9) to investigate the short- and long-term effects of ES exposure on parameters of the adipose tissue and the leptin system (i.e. circulating levels and gene expression of leptin and its receptor) in both sexes. Immediately following ES, the offspring exhibited reductions in white adipose tissue (WAT) mass, plasma leptin levels and in leptin mRNA expression in WAT. Furthermore, ES exposure led to increased brown adipose tissue and browning of WAT, which was evident by a drastic increase in uncoupling protein 1 mRNA expression in the inguinal WAT at P9. Notably, the ES-induced reductions in WAT mass, plasma leptin and leptin expression in WAT were sustained into adulthood and were accompanied by changes in body fat distribution, such as a higher ratio between mesenteric WAT and other WATs. Interestingly, while ES exposure increased leptin receptor mRNA expression in the choroid plexus, it was unaltered in the hippocampus. This suggests an adaptation to maintain central leptin homeostasis following ES exposure. In addition, chronic ES exposure resulted in the well-established cognitive impairment in object recognition performance during adulthood, which correlated positively with reductions in WAT mass observed in male, but not in female mice. Finally, to assess if ES leads to a different metabolic phenotype in a moderate obesogenic environment, we measured body fat accumulation of control and ES-exposed mice in response to a moderate western-style diet (WSD) that was provided during adulthood. ES-exposed mice subjected to WSD exhibit a higher increase in adiposity when compared to controls, suggesting that ES exposure might result in a higher vulnerability to develop obesity in a moderate obesogenic environment. To conclude, chronic ES exposure alters parameters of the adipose tissue, leads to central adaptations in leptin regulation and results in higher fat accumulations when exposed to a WSD challenge later in life. A better understanding of these metabolic effects induced by ES might open up new avenues for therapeutic (e.g. nutritional) interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Y Yam
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E F G Naninck
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M R Abbink
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S E la Fleur
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L Schipper
- Nutricia Research-Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - A Grefhorst
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Oosting
- Nutricia Research-Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E M van der Beek
- Nutricia Research-Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - P J Lucassen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Korosi
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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de Kloet ER, Joëls M. Brain mineralocorticoid receptor function in control of salt balance and stress-adaptation. Physiol Behav 2017; 178:13-20. [PMID: 28089704 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We will highlight in honor of Randall Sakai the peculiar characteristics of the brain mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in its response pattern to the classical mineralocorticoid aldosterone and the naturally occurring glucocorticoids corticosterone and cortisol. Neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) and circumventricular organs express MR, which mediate selectively the action of aldosterone on salt appetite, sympathetic outflow and volume regulation. The MR-containing NTS neurons innervate limbic-forebrain circuits enabling aldosterone to also modulate reciprocally arousal, motivation, fear and reward. MR expressed in abundance in this limbic-forebrain circuitry, is target of cortisol and corticosterone in modulation of appraisal processes, memory performance and selection of coping strategy. Complementary to this role of limbic MR is the action mediated by the lower affinity glucocorticoid receptors (GR), which promote subsequently memory storage of the experience and facilitate behavioral adaptation. Current evidence supports the hypothesis that an imbalance between MR- and GR-mediated actions compromises resilience and adaptation to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edo Ronald de Kloet
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Marian Joëls
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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24
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Packard AEB, Egan AE, Ulrich-Lai YM. HPA Axis Interactions with Behavioral Systems. Compr Physiol 2016; 6:1897-1934. [PMID: 27783863 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c150042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Perhaps the most salient behaviors that individuals engage in involve the avoidance of aversive experiences and the pursuit of pleasurable experiences. Engagement in these behaviors is regulated to a significant extent by an individual's hormonal milieu. For example, glucocorticoid hormones are produced by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis, and influence most aspects of behavior. In turn, many behaviors can influence HPA axis activity. These bidirectional interactions not only coordinate an individual's physiological and behavioral states to each other, but can also tune them to environmental conditions thereby optimizing survival. The present review details the influence of the HPA axis on many types of behavior, including appetitively-motivated behaviors (e.g., food intake and drug use), aversively-motivated behaviors (e.g., anxiety-related and depressive-like) and cognitive behaviors (e.g., learning and memory). Conversely, the manuscript also describes how engaging in various behaviors influences HPA axis activity. Our current understanding of the neuronal and/or hormonal mechanisms that underlie these interactions is also summarized. © 2016 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 6:1897-1934, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E B Packard
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Ann E Egan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Yvonne M Ulrich-Lai
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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25
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Desarzens S, Faresse N. Adipocyte glucocorticoid receptor has a minor contribution in adipose tissue growth. J Endocrinol 2016; 230:1-11. [PMID: 27106108 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The glucocorticoids bind and activate both the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) as well as the mineralocorticoid receptor in adipocytes. Despite several studies to determine the function of these two receptors in mediating glucocorticoids effects, their relative contribution in adipose tissue expansion and obesity is unclear. To investigate the effect of GR in adipose tissue function, we generated an adipocyte-specific Gr-knockout mouse model (Gr(ad-ko)). These mice were submitted either to a standard diet or a high-fat high sucrose diet. We found that adipocyte-specific deletion of Gr did not affect body weight gain or adipose tissue formation and distribution. However, the lack of Gr in adipocyte promotes a diet-induced inflammation determined by higher pro-inflammatory genes expression and macrophage infiltration in the fat pads. Surprisingly, the adipose tissue inflammation in Gr(ad-ko) mice was not correlated with insulin resistance or dyslipidemia, but with disturbed glucose tolerance. Our data demonstrate that adipocyte-specific ablation of Gr in vivo may affect the adipose tissue function but not its expansion during a high calorie diet.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nourdine Faresse
- Institute of AnatomyUniversity of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Zurich Center of Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP)University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland National Center of Competence in Research 'Kidney.CH'Zurich, Switzerland
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27
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Abstract
For many individuals, stress promotes the consumption of sweet, high-sugar foods relative to healthier alternatives. Daily life stressors stimulate the overeating of highly-palatable foods through multiple mechanisms, including altered glucocorticoid, relaxin-3, ghrelin and serotonin signaling in brain. In turn, a history of consuming high-sugar foods attenuates the psychological (anxiety and depressed mood) and physiological (HPA axis) effects of stress. Together the metabolic and hedonic properties of sucrose contribute to its stress relief, possibly via actions in both the periphery (e.g., glucocorticoid receptor signaling in adipose tissue) and in the brain (e.g., plasticity in brain reward regions). Emerging work continues to reveal the bidirectional mechanisms that underlie the use of high-sugar foods as 'self-medication' for stress relief.
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28
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Stress-induced alterations in estradiol sensitivity increase risk for obesity in women. Physiol Behav 2016; 166:56-64. [PMID: 27182047 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2015] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity in the United States continues to rise, increasing individual vulnerability to an array of adverse health outcomes. One factor that has been implicated causally in the increased accumulation of fat and excess food intake is the activity of the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (LHPA) axis in the face of relentless stressor exposure. However, translational and clinical research continues to understudy the effects sex and gonadal hormones and LHPA axis dysfunction in the etiology of obesity even though women continue to be at greater risk than men for stress-induced disorders, including depression, emotional feeding and obesity. The current review will emphasize the need for sex-specific evaluation of the relationship between stress exposure and LHPA axis activity on individual risk for obesity by summarizing data generated by animal models currently being leveraged to determine the etiology of stress-induced alterations in feeding behavior and metabolism. There exists a clear lack of translational models that have been used to study female-specific risk. One translational model of psychosocial stress exposure that has proven fruitful in elucidating potential mechanisms by which females are at increased risk for stress-induced adverse health outcomes is that of social subordination in socially housed female macaque monkeys. Data from subordinate female monkeys suggest that increased risk for emotional eating and the development of obesity in females may be due to LHPA axis-induced changes in the behavioral and physiological sensitivity of estradiol. The lack in understanding of the mechanisms underlying these alterations necessitate the need to account for the effects of sex and gonadal hormones in the rationale, design, implementation, analysis and interpretation of results in our studies of stress axis function in obesity. Doing so may lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets with which to combat stress-induced obesity exclusively in females.
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29
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Abstract
Sleep and energy balance are essential for health. The two processes act in concert to regulate central and peripheral homeostasis. During sleep, energy is conserved due to suspended activity, movement, and sensory responses, and is redirected to restore and replenish proteins and their assemblies into cellular structures. During wakefulness, various energy-demanding activities lead to hunger. Thus, hunger promotes arousal, and subsequent feeding, followed by satiety that promotes sleep via changes in neuroendocrine or neuropeptide signals. These signals overlap with circuits of sleep-wakefulness, feeding, and energy expenditure. Here, we will briefly review the literature that describes the interplay between the circadian system, sleep-wake, and feeding-fasting cycles that are needed to maintain energy balance and a healthy metabolic profile. In doing so, we describe the neuroendocrine, hormonal/peptide signals that integrate sleep and feeding behavior with energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charu Shukla
- Department of Psychiatry, VA Boston Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA, USA
| | - Radhika Basheer
- Department of Psychiatry, VA Boston Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA, USA
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30
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Woods CP, Hazlehurst JM, Tomlinson JW. Glucocorticoids and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 154:94-103. [PMID: 26241028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of the global obesity and metabolic disease epidemic and is rapidly becoming the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and indication for liver transplantation worldwide. The hallmark pathological finding in NAFLD is excess lipid accumulation within hepatocytes, but it is a spectrum of disease ranging from benign hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis through to fibrosis, cirrhosis and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. The exact pathophysiology remains unclear with a multi-hit hypothesis generally accepted as being required for inflammation and fibrosis to develop after initial steatosis. Glucocorticoids have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD across all stages. They have a diverse array of metabolic functions that have the potential to drive NAFLD acting on both liver and adipose tissue. In the fasting state, they are able to mobilize lipid, increasing fatty acid delivery and in the fed state can promote lipid accumulation. Their action is controlled at multiple levels and in this review will outline the evidence base for the role of GCs in the pathogenesis of NAFLD from cell systems, rodent models and clinical studies and describe interventional strategies that have been employed to modulate glucocorticoid action as a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor P Woods
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes Endocrinology & Metabolism (OCDEM), Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LJ, UK
| | - Jonathon M Hazlehurst
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes Endocrinology & Metabolism (OCDEM), Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LJ, UK
| | - Jeremy W Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes Endocrinology & Metabolism (OCDEM), Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LJ, UK.
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31
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Ferraù F, Korbonits M. Metabolic comorbidities in Cushing's syndrome. Eur J Endocrinol 2015; 173:M133-57. [PMID: 26060052 DOI: 10.1530/eje-15-0354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) patients have increased mortality primarily due to cardiovascular events induced by glucocorticoid (GC) excess-related severe metabolic changes. Glucose metabolism abnormalities are common in CS due to increased gluconeogenesis, disruption of insulin signalling with reduced glucose uptake and disposal of glucose and altered insulin secretion, consequent to the combination of GCs effects on liver, muscle, adipose tissue and pancreas. Dyslipidaemia is a frequent feature in CS as a result of GC-induced increased lipolysis, lipid mobilisation, liponeogenesis and adipogenesis. Protein metabolism is severely affected by GC excess via complex direct and indirect stimulation of protein breakdown and inhibition of protein synthesis, which can lead to muscle loss. CS patients show changes in body composition, with fat redistribution resulting in accumulation of central adipose tissue. Metabolic changes, altered adipokine release, GC-induced heart and vasculature abnormalities, hypertension and atherosclerosis contribute to the increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In paediatric CS patients, the interplay between GC and the GH/IGF1 axis affects growth and body composition, while in adults it further contributes to the metabolic derangement. GC excess has a myriad of deleterious effects and here we attempt to summarise the metabolic comorbidities related to CS and their management in the perspective of reducing the cardiovascular risk and mortality overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ferraù
- Centre for Endocrinology William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Márta Korbonits
- Centre for Endocrinology William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
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Solomon MB, Loftspring M, de Kloet AD, Ghosal S, Jankord R, Flak JN, Wulsin AC, Krause EG, Zhang R, Rice T, McKlveen J, Myers B, Tasker JG, Herman JP. Neuroendocrine Function After Hypothalamic Depletion of Glucocorticoid Receptors in Male and Female Mice. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2843-53. [PMID: 26046806 PMCID: PMC4511133 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids act rapidly at the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) to inhibit stress-excitatory neurons and limit excessive glucocorticoid secretion. The signaling mechanism underlying rapid feedback inhibition remains to be determined. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that the canonical glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) is required for appropriate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation. Local PVN GR knockdown (KD) was achieved by breeding homozygous floxed GR mice with Sim1-cre recombinase transgenic mice. This genetic approach created mice with a KD of GR primarily confined to hypothalamic cell groups, including the PVN, sparing GR expression in other HPA axis limbic regulatory regions, and the pituitary. There were no differences in circadian nadir and peak corticosterone concentrations between male PVN GR KD mice and male littermate controls. However, reduction of PVN GR increased ACTH and corticosterone responses to acute, but not chronic stress, indicating that PVN GR is critical for limiting neuroendocrine responses to acute stress in males. Loss of PVN GR induced an opposite neuroendocrine phenotype in females, characterized by increased circadian nadir corticosterone levels and suppressed ACTH responses to acute restraint stress, without a concomitant change in corticosterone responses under acute or chronic stress conditions. PVN GR deletion had no effect on depression-like behavior in either sex in the forced swim test. Overall, these findings reveal pronounced sex differences in the PVN GR dependence of acute stress feedback regulation of HPA axis function. In addition, these data further indicate that glucocorticoid control of HPA axis responses after chronic stress operates via a PVN-independent mechanism.
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33
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Okun JG, Conway S, Schmidt KV, Schumacher J, Wang X, de Guia R, Zota A, Klement J, Seibert O, Peters A, Maida A, Herzig S, Rose AJ. Molecular regulation of urea cycle function by the liver glucocorticoid receptor. Mol Metab 2015; 4:732-40. [PMID: 26500844 PMCID: PMC4588454 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective One of the major side effects of glucocorticoid (GC) treatment is lean tissue wasting, indicating a prominent role in systemic amino acid metabolism. In order to uncover a novel aspect of GCs and their intracellular-receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), on metabolic control, we conducted amino acid and acylcarnitine profiling in human and mouse models of GC/GR gain- and loss-of-function. Methods Blood serum and tissue metabolite levels were determined in Human Addison's disease (AD) patients as well as in mouse models of systemic and liver-specific GR loss-of-function (AAV-miR-GR) with or without dexamethasone (DEX) treatments. Body composition and neuromuscular and metabolic function tests were conducted in vivo and ex vivo, the latter using precision cut liver slices. Results A serum metabolite signature of impaired urea cycle function (i.e. higher [ARG]:[ORN + CIT]) was observed in human (CTRL: 0.45 ± 0.03, AD: 1.29 ± 0.04; p < 0.001) and mouse (AAV-miR-NC: 0.97 ± 0.13, AAV-miR-GR: 2.20 ± 0.19; p < 0.001) GC/GR loss-of-function, with similar patterns also observed in liver. Serum urea levels were consistently affected by GC/GR gain- (∼+32%) and loss (∼−30%) -of-function. Combined liver-specific GR loss-of-function with DEX treatment revealed a tissue-autonomous role for the GR to coordinate an upregulation of liver urea production rate in vivo and ex vivo, and prevent hyperammonaemia and associated neuromuscular dysfunction in vivo. Liver mRNA expression profiling and GR-cistrome mining identified Arginase I (ARG1) a urea cycle gene targeted by the liver GR. Conclusions The liver GR controls systemic and liver urea cycle function by transcriptional regulation of ARG1 expression. Metabolite profiling revealed a role for the HPA-axis-liver GR in regulating urea cycle function in mouse and humans. The liver GR controls enhanced urea cycle function during chronic glucocorticoid exposure. Liver Arginase I is a key urea cycle transcript regulated by the GR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen G Okun
- Division of Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University Children's Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sean Conway
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kathrin V Schmidt
- Division of Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University Children's Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jonas Schumacher
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Xiaoyue Wang
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roldan de Guia
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Annika Zota
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ; Institute for Diabetes and Cancer (IDC), Helmholtz Center Munich, and Joint Heidelberg-IDC Translational Diabetes Program, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Klement
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Oksana Seibert
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Achim Peters
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Adriano Maida
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ; Institute for Diabetes and Cancer (IDC), Helmholtz Center Munich, and Joint Heidelberg-IDC Translational Diabetes Program, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Herzig
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ; Institute for Diabetes and Cancer (IDC), Helmholtz Center Munich, and Joint Heidelberg-IDC Translational Diabetes Program, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Adam J Rose
- Joint Research Division Molecular Metabolic Control, German Cancer Research Center, Center for Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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