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García-Saucedo B, Romero-Morales L, Álvarez-Rodríguez C, Cárdenas-Vázquez R, Ávila-Costa MR, Luis J. Father's Absence in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) is associated with alterations in paternal behavior, T, cort, presence of ERα, and AR in mPOA/ BNST. Behav Brain Res 2024; 465:114928. [PMID: 38432301 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114928] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Testosterone (T), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and androgen receptor (AR) play a significant role in the regulation of paternal behavior. We determined the effects of deprivation of paternal care on alterations in paternal behavior, T concentrations in plasma, and the presence of ERα and AR in the medial preoptic area (mPOA), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), medial amygdala (MeA), and olfactory bulb (OB), as well as the corticosterone (CORT) concentrations in plasma caused by deprivation of paternal care in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus). Twenty pairs of gerbils were formed; the pups were deprived of paternal care (DPC) in 10 pairs. In another 10 pairs, the pups received paternal care (PC). Ten males raised in DPC condition and 10 males raised in PC conditions were mated with virgin females. When they became fathers, each DPC male and PC male was subjected to tests of paternal behavior on day three postpartum. Blood samples were obtained to quantify T and CORT concentrations, and the brains were removed for ERα and AR immunohistochemistry analyses. DPC males gave less care to their pups than PC males, and they had significantly lower T concentrations and levels of ERα and AR in the mPOA and BNST than PC males. DPC males also had higher CORT concentrations than PC males. These results suggest that in the Mongolian gerbil father's absence causes a decrease in paternal care in the offspring, which is associated with alterations in the neuroendocrine mechanisms that regulate it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda García-Saucedo
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Edificio D, 1° Piso, 7 Circuitos de Posgrado, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de 8 México, México
| | - Luis Romero-Morales
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, UMF, FES Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. de los Barrios No. 1, Tlalnepantla, Edo. de México, Mexico
| | - Carmen Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, UMF, FES Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. de los Barrios No. 1, Tlalnepantla, Edo. de México, Mexico
| | - René Cárdenas-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Biología Animal Experimental, Depto. de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Rosa Ávila-Costa
- Laboratorio de Neuromorfología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla, Edo. Mex, Mexico
| | - Juana Luis
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, UMF, FES Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. de los Barrios No. 1, Tlalnepantla, Edo. de México, Mexico.
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Alonge MM, Greville LJS, Ma X, Faure PA, Bentley GE. Acute restraint stress rapidly impacts reproductive neuroendocrinology and downstream gonad function in big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus). J Exp Biol 2023; 226:jeb245592. [PMID: 37827114 PMCID: PMC10629485 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.245592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Animals face unpredictable challenges that require rapid, facultative physiological reactions to support survival but may compromise reproduction. Bats have a long-standing reputation for being highly sensitive to stressors, with sensitivity and resilience varying both within and among species, yet little is known about how stress affects the signaling that regulates reproductive physiology. Here, we provide the first description of the molecular response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis of male big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) in response to short-term stress using a standardized restraint manipulation. This acute stressor was sufficient to upregulate plasma corticosterone and resulted in a rapid decrease in circulating testosterone. While we did not find differences in the mRNA expression of key steroidogenic enzymes (StAR, aromatase, 5-alpha reductase), seminiferous tubule diameter was reduced in stressed bats coupled with a 5-fold increase in glucocorticoid receptor (GR) mRNA expression in the testes. These changes, in part, may be mediated by RFamide-related peptide (RFRP) because fewer immunoreactive cell bodies were detected in the brains of stressed bats compared with controls - suggesting a possible increase in secretion - and increased RFRP expression locally in the gonads. The rapid sensitivity of the bat testes to stress may be connected to deleterious impacts on tissue health and function as supported by significant transcriptional upregulation of key pro-apoptotic signaling molecules (Bax, cytochrome c). Experiments like this broadly contribute to our understanding of the stronger ecological predictions regarding physiological responses of bats within the context of stress, which may impact decisions surrounding animal handling and conservation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattina M. Alonge
- University of California, Berkeley, Department of Integrative Biology, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
| | - Lucas J. S. Greville
- McMaster University, Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, Hamilton, ON, Canada, L8S 4L8
- University of Waterloo, Department of Biology, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3G1
| | - Xuehao Ma
- University of California, Berkeley, Department of Integrative Biology, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Paul A. Faure
- McMaster University, Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, Hamilton, ON, Canada, L8S 4L8
| | - George E. Bentley
- University of California, Berkeley, Department of Integrative Biology, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
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Cai XF, Zhao JM, Yang YS, Wang CY, Nian MX, Huang JF, Wang BY. Self-reported sleep quality and oligo/astheno/teratozoospermia among men attending an infertility clinic: a longitudinal study. Sleep Breath 2023; 27:1465-1471. [PMID: 36474109 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-022-02756-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the influence of sleep disturbances on the risk of oligo/astheno/teratozoospermia (OAT) in men attending an infertility clinic. METHODS We consecutively enrolled men attending an infertility clinic from July 2020 to June 2021. Semen parameters were obtained at initial presentation, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, and the STOP-BANG Questionnair were completed to assess sleep quality. Embryo outcomes were evaluated after infertility treatment. RESULTS Of 466 men enrolled, 119 had OAT (OAT group) and 347 had normozoospermia (NS group). There were no differences between the two groups regarding Epworth Sleepiness Scale and STOP-BANG Questionnaire scores. The prevalence of poor sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score ≥ 5) in the OAT group was significantly higher than that in the NS group (42% vs. 29%, p = 0.009). A higher rate of poor subjective sleep quality was observed in the OAT group compared with the NS group (p = 0.005) and Pearson's correlations revealed a negative relationship between subjective sleep quality and semen quality. Logistic regression found that subjective sleep quality was independently associated with an increased risk of OAT (adjusted odds ratio = 0.610, p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Men with OAT attending an infertility clinic exhibited poor subjective sleep quality. Improving sleep disturbances may be a target intervention to reduce the risk of OAT. This possibility warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Fen Cai
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jian-Ming Zhao
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Song Yang
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cai-Yun Wang
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei-Xin Nian
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie-Feng Huang
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Respiratory Disease, Fujian Medical University, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bi-Ying Wang
- Fujian Provincial Sleep-Disordered Breathing Clinic Center, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Respiratory Disease, Fujian Medical University, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, NO 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, 350005, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
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A Novel Model Using AAV9-Cre to Knockout Adult Leydig Cell Gene Expression Reveals a Physiological Role of Glucocorticoid Receptor Signalling in Leydig Cell Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315015. [PMID: 36499341 PMCID: PMC9737203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are steroids involved in key physiological processes such as development, metabolism, inflammatory and stress responses and are mostly used exogenously as medications to treat various inflammation-based conditions. They act via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expressed in most cells. Exogenous glucocorticoids can negatively impact the function of the Leydig cells in the testis, leading to decreased androgen production. However, endogenous glucocorticoids are produced by the adrenal and within the testis, but whether their action on GR in Leydig cells regulates steroidogenesis is unknown. This study aimed to define the role of endogenous GR signalling in adult Leydig cells. We developed and compared two models; an inducible Cre transgene driven by expression of the Cyp17a1 steroidogenic gene (Cyp17-iCre) that depletes GR during development and a viral vector-driven Cre (AAV9-Cre) to deplete GR in adulthood. The delivery of AAV9-Cre ablated GR in adult mouse Leydig cells depleted Leydig cell GR more efficiently than the Cyp17-iCre model. Importantly, adult depletion of GR in Leydig cells caused reduced expression of luteinising hormone receptor (Lhcgr) and of steroidogenic enzymes required for normal androgen production. These findings reveal that Leydig cell GR signalling plays a physiological role in the testis and highlight that a normal balance of glucocorticoid activity in the testis is important for steroidogenesis.
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OUP accepted manuscript. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2022; 11:426-436. [PMID: 35782652 PMCID: PMC9244228 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The central objective of this study was to investigate the cumulative effects restraint stress and sodium arsenite on reproductive health in male rats. Methods Healthy male Wistar rats were allocated into 4 groups (n = 8). Animals in group 1 served as controls and did not subjected to any stress. Rats in groups 2, 3, and 4 were subjected to either restraint stress (5 h/day) or maintained on arsenic (25 ppm) via drinking water or both for 65 days. After completion of the experimental period, all the rats were analyzed for selected reproductive endpoints. Results Restraint stress or sodium arsenite treatment increased serum corticosterone levels, reduced testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm viability, motility, membrane integrity, and decreased testicular steroidogenic enzymes such as 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases associated with reduced serum testosterone levels, deteriorated testicular architecture, and reduced activity levels of testicular superoxide dismutase and catalase accompanied by elevated lipid peroxidation levels. In rats subjected to restraint stress and sodium arsenite, a significant decrease in selected sperm qualitative and quantitative parameters, serum testosterone levels were observed as compared with rats subjected to sodium arsenite alone. A significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation with a concomitant decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes was observed in the testis of rats subjected to both restraint stress and sodium arsenite treatment as compared with sodium arsenite alone intoxicated rats. Surprisingly, serum corticosterone levels were significantly elevated in rats following both stressors as compared with arsenic alone treated rats. Analysis of atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that the accumulation of arsenic in the testis of arsenic-treated and arsenic plus immobilization stress groups was significant as compared with controls. Conclusions Based on the findings, it can be concluded that deterioration of male reproductive health could be accelerated in arsenic intoxicated rats following restraint stress.
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Abstract
A recent study published in The Lancet predicts a remarkable drop in population numbers following a peak that will be reached by 2064. A unique feature of the upcoming population drop is that it will be almost exclusively caused by decreased reproduction, rather than factors that increase rates of mortality. The reasons for decreased reproduction are also unique, as, unlike previous centuries, limited reproduction today is hardly due to a shortage in resources. In other words, the predicted population drop is almost exclusively due to changes in reproductive behavior and reproductive physiology. Today, global changes in reproductive behavior are mostly explained by social sciences in a framework of demographic transition hypotheses, while changes in reproductive physiology are usually attributed to effects of endocrine-disrupting pollutants. This review outlines a complementary/alternative hypothesis, which connects reproductive trends with population densities. Numerous wildlife and experimental studies of a broad range of animal species have demonstrated that reproductive behavior and reproductive physiology are negatively controlled via endocrine and neural signaling in response to increasing population densities. The causal chain of this control system, although not fully understood, includes suppression of every level of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal cascade by hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, activated in response to increasing stress of social interactions. This paper discusses evidence in support of a hypothesis that current trends in reproductive physiology and behavior may be partly explained by increasing population densities. Better understanding of the causal chain involved in reproduction suppression by population density-related factors may help in developing interventions to treat infertility and other reproductive conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Suvorov
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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Sonnweber R, Stevens JMG, Hohmann G, Deschner T, Behringer V. Blood testosterone levels in sickness and in health: Male chimpanzee testosterone levels decrease in face of an immune challenge. Am J Primatol 2021; 84:e23334. [PMID: 34662432 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
As an integral part of the immune response, testosterone secretion is inhibited when an individual is confronted with an immune challenge. Testosterone-mediated physiological, morphological, and behavioral traits are compromised at times of impaired health. Nevertheless, males of some species seem to maintain high levels of testosterone when confronted with an immune challenge, upholding competitive strength but compromising their immune response. It has been argued that this phenomenon will occur only in species living in social systems with high degrees of male-male competition over mating opportunities. Male chimpanzees contest over access to fertile females and dominants sire the majority of offspring. This male mating pattern makes chimpanzees a candidate species where we could expect males to maintain high testosterone levels, compromising their immune response, to ensure immediate reproductive success. We measured blood testosterone levels in male and female chimpanzees, who expressed clinical symptoms (symptomatic) or showed no evidence of clinical disease on assessment (asymptomatic). For females, we expected to find lower testosterone levels in symptomatic individuals than in asymptomatic subjects. In males, we would predict lower testosterone levels in symptomatic individuals than in asymptomatic males, if the immune response leads to a decrease in testosterone secretion. Alternatively, males could have equal levels of testosterone when symptomatic and asymptomatic, upholding competitive strength. Our results show that male chimpanzees exhibit lower levels of testosterone when confronted with an immune challenge than when being asymptomatic. This suggests that male testosterone secretion is suppressed as part of the immune response, which potentially increases survival and lifetime reproductive success. It will, however, negatively impact momentary competitive ability. Also, males may employ different mating strategies, some of which are less testosterone-driven (e.g., affiliative strategies). Consequently, in some individuals, the costs of maintaining high testosterone levels may not outweigh the potential gain in reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Sonnweber
- Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jeroen M G Stevens
- Department of Biology, Behavioral Ecology and Ecophysiology, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,SALTO, Agro- and Biotechnology, Odisee University College, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gottfried Hohmann
- Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tobias Deschner
- Interim Group Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Verena Behringer
- Interim Group Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.,Endocrinology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
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Soleimani Mehranjani M, Azizi M, Sadeghzadeh F. The effect of melatonin on testis histological changes and spermatogenesis indexes in mice following treatment with dexamethasone. Drug Chem Toxicol 2020; 45:1140-1149. [PMID: 33161762 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2020.1809672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Dexamethasone is a common medicine that is capable of causing malformation in the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin on testis histological changes and Spermatogenesis indexes in adult mice following treatment with dexamethasone. Adult male NMRI mice were divided randomly into four groups: control, dexamethasone (i.p injections, 7 mg/kg/day), dexamethasone + melatonin and melatonin (i.p injections, 20 mg/kg/day). After 7 days of treatment, the right testes were studied stereologically and the left testes were used to measure the daily sperm production (DSP). The serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were also measured. The left caudal epididymis was used to analyze sperm parameters. Data were analyzed using one way ANOVA and means were considered significantly different at p < 0.05. A significant decrease in the testis volume, seminiferous tubules volume, the number of spermatocytes, round and long spermatids, Spermatogenesis indexes, sperm parameters such as motility, count, viability, tail length and DSP, serum testosterone level, TAC and the body weight was found in the dexamethasone group compared to the control. Meanwhile a significant swelling of the interstitial tissue and a significant increase in the MDA level was found in the dexamethasone group compared to the control. The above parameters reached the control level in the dexamethasone + melatonin group. Melatonin can compensate for the adverse effects of dexamethasone on sperm parameters and the histology of the seminiferous tubules in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mina Azizi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
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Abstract
Through their receptors at each level of hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis glucocorticoid excess, either endogenous or administered or stress-induced, could affect steroid production in the testis and thus male fertility. The main ways by which glucocorticoids act are as follows: 1) Affecting gonadoliberin and LH synthesis and release through glucocorticoid receptors in hypothalamic neurons and pituitary gonadotropes. 2) By so far not clearly evidenced reduction of the number of LH receptors on the membrane of Leydig cells. 3) By affecting expression and function of steroidogenic enzymes in the testis. 4) By regulation of in situ access of glucocorticoid to its target cells in the testis. 5) By promotion Leydig cell apoptosis. The review provides a survey of physiological and molecular mechanisms staying behind these effects. It does not deal with the clinical effects of glucocorticoid treatment which would substantially exceed the scope of the pater.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hampl
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Fürtbauer I, Brown MR, Heistermann M. Collective action reduces androgen responsiveness with implications for shoaling dynamics in stickleback fish. Horm Behav 2020; 119:104636. [PMID: 31765656 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Androgens, traditionally viewed as hormones that regulate secondary sexual characteristics and reproduction in male vertebrates, are often modulated by social stimuli. High levels of the 'social hormone' testosterone (T) are linked to aggression, dominance, and competition. Low T levels, in contrast, promote sociopositive behaviours such as affiliation, social tolerance, and cooperation, which can be crucial for group-level, collective behaviours. Here, we test the hypothesis that - in a collective context - low T levels should be favourable, using non-reproductive male and female stickleback fish (Gasterosteus aculeatus) and non-invasive waterborne hormone analysis. In line with our predictions, we show that the fishes' T levels were significantly lower during shoaling compared to when alone, with high-T individuals showing the largest decrease. Ruling out stress-induced T suppression and increased T conversion into oestradiol, we find evidence that shoaling directly affects androgen responsiveness. We also show that groups characterized by lower mean T exhibit less hierarchical leader-follower dynamics, suggesting that low T promotes egalitarianism. Overall, we show that collective action results in lower T levels, which may serve to promote coordination and group performance. Our study, together with recent complementary findings in humans, emphasizes the importance of low T for the expression of sociopositive behaviour across vertebrates, suggesting similarities in endocrine mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Fürtbauer
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, SA2 8PP Swansea, UK; Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa.
| | - M Rowan Brown
- College of Engineering, Swansea University, SA1 8EN Swansea, UK
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Salami SA, Salahdeen HM, Moronkola OT, Murtala BA, Raji Y. Vitamin C supplementation during chronic variable stress exposure modulates contractile functions of testicular artery and sperm parameters in male Wistar rats. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-020-0017-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Humans are exposed to identifiable multiple environmental stressors. However, there is paucity of studies assessing chronic variable stress (CVS) exposure together with antioxidant supplementation on reproductive function. This study investigates impact of vitamin C supplementation, during CVS exposure on contractile functions of testicular artery and sperm parameters. Twenty pubertal male Wistar rats (150–200 g) were grouped into four of five rats each consisting of control (normal saline), vitamin C treated (7 mg/kg bwt), chronic variable stress (CVS) + vitamin C, and CVS only. Animals were treated respectively for 8 weeks. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, malondialdehyde (MDA) activity, testosterone, and cortisol were assayed. Contractile responses of excised testicular artery to phenylephrine, potassium chloride, acetylcholine, and sodium nitroprusside were determined using Ugo Basile data acquisition system. Sperm parameters and histopathology of the testis were also determined. Statistical significance was taken at p < 0.05
Result
MDA activity was significantly increased in group exposed to chronic variable stress. However, groups supplemented with vitamin C during CVS exposure showed no significant increase. Serum SOD and catalase were enhanced in group exposed to CVS with vitamin C supplementation when compared to group exposed to chronic variable stress only. Chronic variable stress exposure increased serum cortisol level and this was attenuated with vitamin C supplementation. Vitamin C supplementation significantly increased serum testosterone level when compared to CVS only exposed group. Contraction responses of testicular arterial strips to phenylephrine and potassium chloride were attenuated in vitamin C supplemented groups when compared to CVS only exposed group. Vitamin C supplementation during CVS exposure also enhanced relaxation of testicular artery strip to sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine. Sperm count and percentage motility were significantly reduced in CVS only exposed group when compared vitamin C supplemented group. Sperms cells with abnormal morphology were also significantly increased in chronic variable stress only exposed group when compared to control and vitamin C supplemented groups.
Conclusion
Chronic variable stress adversely impacts contractility of testicular artery, sperm parameters, cortisol, and testosterone level. Vitamin C supplementation modulated these by suppressing MDA and enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity.
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Pacholko AG, Wotton CA, Bekar LK. Poor Diet, Stress, and Inactivity Converge to Form a "Perfect Storm" That Drives Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis. NEURODEGENER DIS 2019; 19:60-77. [PMID: 31600762 DOI: 10.1159/000503451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
North American incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is expected to more than double over the coming generation. Although genetic factors surrounding the production and clearance of amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau proteins are known to be responsible for a subset of early-onset AD cases, they do not explain the pathogenesis of the far more prevalent sporadic late-onset variant of the disease. It is thus likely that lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to neurodegenerative processes implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Herein, we review evidence that (1) excess sucrose consumption induces AD-associated liver pathologies and brain insulin resistance, (2) chronic stress overdrives activity of locus coeruleus neurons, leading to loss of function (a common event in neurodegeneration), (3) high-sugar diets and stress promote the loss of neuroprotective sex hormones in men and women, and (4) Western dietary trends set the stage for a lithium-deficient state. We propose that these factors may intersect as part of a "perfect storm" to contribute to the widespread prevalence of neurodegeneration and AD. In addition, we put forth the argument that exercise and supplementation with trace lithium can counteract many of the deleterious consequences associated with excessive caloric intake and perpetual stress. We conclude that lifestyle and environmental factors likely contribute to AD pathogenesis and that simple lifestyle and dietary changes can help counteract their effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony G Pacholko
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Caitlin A Wotton
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Lane K Bekar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada,
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Mechanisms of Stress-Induced Spermatogenesis Impairment in Male Rats Following Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress (uCMS). Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184470. [PMID: 31510090 PMCID: PMC6770920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The negative association between psychological stress and male fertility has been known for many years. This study was aimed at (i) identifying spermatogenesis impairment induced by psychological stress in rats and (ii) exploring the role of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling in these adverse effects (if they exist). Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a six-week period of unpredictable chronic mild stress (uCMS) along with cotreatment of GR antagonist RU486 (1 mg/kg/day). Testicular damage was assessed by testicular pathological evaluation, epididymal sperm concentration, serum testosterone levels, testicular apoptotic cell measurements, and cell cycle progression analyses. Rats in the uCMS group had decreased levels of serum testosterone and decreased epididymal sperm concentration. The uCMS-treated rats also had decreased numbers of spermatids and increased levels of apoptotic seminiferous tubules; additionally, cell cycle progression of spermatogonia was arrested at the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, uCMS exposure caused an increase in serum corticosterone level and activated GR signaling in the testes including upregulated GR expression. RU486 treatment suppressed GR signaling and alleviated the damaging effects of stress, resulting in an increased epididymal sperm concentration. Overall, this work demonstrated for the first time that the activation of GR signaling mediates stress-induced spermatogenesis impairment and that this outcome is related to cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in germ cells.
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14
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Tsachaki M, Odermatt A. Subcellular localization and membrane topology of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 489:98-106. [PMID: 30864548 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17β-HSDs) comprise enzymes initially identified by their ability to interconvert active and inactive forms of sex steroids, a vital process for the tissue-specific control of estrogen and androgen balance. However, most 17β-HSDs have now been shown to accept substrates other than sex steroids, including bile acids, retinoids and fatty acids, thereby playing unanticipated roles in cell physiology. This functional divergence is often reflected by their different subcellular localization, with 17β-HSDs found in the cytosol, peroxisome, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and in lipid droplets. Moreover, a subset of 17β-HSDs are integral membrane proteins, with their specific topology dictating the cellular compartment in which they exert their enzymatic activity. Here, we summarize the present knowledge on the subcellular localization and membrane topology of the 17β-HSD enzymes and discuss the correlation with their biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tsachaki
- Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alex Odermatt
- Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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15
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Electrocardiographic, endocrine and biochemical stress indices of electroejaculated Egyptian Baladi goat bucks. Small Rumin Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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16
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Assis VR, Titon SCM, Gomes FR. Acute stress, steroid plasma levels, and innate immunity in Brazilian toads. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:86-97. [PMID: 29750968 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Stress from habitat fragmentation has been shown to impact amphibian declines. Studies from a variety of vertebrates indicate that stressed animals exhibit an acute increase in circulating plasma glucocorticoid (GC) levels and consequent immunomodulation. To further explore the relationship between GCs and immunity, we subjected three species of newly captured Brazilian toads, Rhinella ornata, R. icterica and R. schneideri to restraint with or without movement restriction (maintenance in a moistened cloth bag vs. maintenance in a bin) for 24 h. We compared various parameters from baseline (field conditions) with values after restraint, including those associated with stress (corticosterone [CORT] plasma levels), and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio [N:L ratio]), potential reproduction (testosterone [T] plasma levels), and innate immunity (bacterial killing ability [BKA]). General responses to the restraint challenge (baseline vs. restraint) included increased CORT levels and N:L ratio, and decreased T levels and BKA. Additionally, CORT levels and N:L ratio tended to increase more from restraint with movement restriction than to restraint without movement restriction, indicating toads showed increased stress response to the more intense stressor. All variables showed interspecific variation at baseline conditions: R. ornata had higher CORT levels when compared to the other two species, while R. icterica had the highest BKA values. After restraint (with or without movement restriction), R. ornata displayed higher values for T and N:L ratio, and showed higher CORT values after restraint without movement restriction; however, the CORT values were similar among species after restraint with movement restriction. In terms of immunity, in response to restraint, BKA was different among species only after restraint with movement restriction, with R. schneideri showing the lowest BKA values. Our results show that restraint increases common markers of the stress response, and could reduce potential reproduction and innate immune responses in toads from all studied species. Our results also showed variation at the interspecific level, with the amplitude of change in the studied variables being consistent and more pronounced following restraint with movement restriction for the three-studied species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vania Regina Assis
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, 05508-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Stefanny Christie Monteiro Titon
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, 05508-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, 05508-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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17
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Scaia MF, Volonteri MC, Czuchlej SC, Ceballos NR. Estradiol and reproduction in the South American toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibian, Anura). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:20-31. [PMID: 29555118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Rhinella arenarum is a South American toad with wide geographic distribution. Testes of this toad produce high amount of androgens during the non reproductive season and shift steroid synthesis from androgens to 5α-pregnanedione during the breeding. In addition, plasma estradiol (E2) in males of this species shows seasonal variations but, since testes of R. arenarum do not express aromatase, the source of plasma E2 remained unknown for several years. However, the Bidder's organ (BO), a structure located at one pole of each testis, is proposed to be the main source of E2 in male's toads since it expresses several steroidogenic enzymes and is able to produce E2 from endogenous substrates throughout the year. In addition, there were significant correlations between plasma E2 and total activity of BO aromatase, and between plasma E2 and the amount of hormone produced by the BO in vitro. In the toad, apoptosis induced by in vitro treatment with E2 was mostly detected in spermatocytes during the breeding and in spermatids during the post-reproductive season, suggesting that this steroid has an important role in controlling spermatogenesis. However, in vitro treatment with E2 had no effect on proliferation. This evidence suggests that the mechanism of action of E2 on amphibian spermatogenesis is complex and more studies are necessary to fully understand the role of estrogens regulating the balance between cellular proliferation and apoptosis. In addition, in R. arenarum in vitro studies suggested that E2 has no effect on CypP450c17 protein levels or enzymatic activity, while it reduces 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3β-HSD/I) activity during the post reproductive season. As well, E2 regulates FSHβ mRNA expression all over the year suggesting a down regulation process carried out by this steroid. The effect on LHβ mRNA is dual, since during the reproductive season estradiol increases the expression of LHβ mRNA while in the non-reproductive season it has no effect. In conclusion, the effect of E2 on gonadotropins and testicular function is complex, not clearly understood and probably varies depending on the species. The aim of the current article is to review evidence on reproductive endocrinology and on the role of estradiol regulating reproduction in amphibians, with emphasis on the South American species Rhinella arenarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Scaia
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA - CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Instituto de Diversidad y Evolución Austral (IDEAus - CONICET), Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Silvia Cristina Czuchlej
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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18
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Needham KB, Bergeon Burns C, Graham JL, Bauer CM, Kittilson JD, Ketterson ED, Hahn T, Greives TJ. Changes in processes downstream of the hypothalamus are associated with seasonal follicle development in a songbird, the dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 270:103-112. [PMID: 30339809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms related to seasonal reproductive timing in vertebrates have received far more study in males than in females, despite the fact that female timing decisions dictate when rearing of offspring will occur. Production and release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary to secrete gonadotropins, initiating the beginning stages of gonadal recrudescence and production of the sex steroids, testosterone and estradiol, which are necessary to prime the liver for secretion of yolk precursors in breeding female birds. While stimulation by the hypothalamus can occur during the pre-breeding period, egg development itself is likely regulated downstream of the hypothalamus. We used GnRH challenges to examine variation in breeding-stage-specific patterns of pituitary and ovarian responsiveness in free-living female dark-eyed juncos (Junco hyemalis) and also examined the ovary and liver for variation in mRNA expression of candidate genes. Baseline LH levels increased during the transition from pre-breeding to egg-development, however no significant difference was observed in post-GnRH injection levels for LH or sex steroids (testosterone and estradiol). Interestingly, a stage by time-point interaction was observed, with post-GnRH LH levels increasing over baseline during the pre-breeding stage, but not during the egg-development stage. We observed a decrease in liver mRNA expression of estradiol receptor-alpha, and glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors and a decrease in glucocorticoid receptor expression levels in the ovary. A decline in FSH receptor expression across stages was also observed in the ovary. Combined, our data suggest seasonal variation in female's sensitivity to signals of HPG activity and energetic or stress signals. These data provide additional insight into the physiological mechanisms regulating onset of clutch initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie B Needham
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA; Environmental and Conservation Sciences Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | | | - Jessica L Graham
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA; Environmental and Conservation Sciences Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Carolyn M Bauer
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA; Department of Biology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Kittilson
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | | | - Thomas Hahn
- College of Biological Sciences, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Timothy J Greives
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA; Environmental and Conservation Sciences Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
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19
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Sadeghzadeh F, Mehranjani MS, Mahmoodi M. Vitamin C ameliorates the adverse effects of dexamethasone on sperm motility, testosterone level, and spermatogenesis indexes in mice. Hum Exp Toxicol 2018; 38:409-418. [PMID: 30526067 DOI: 10.1177/0960327118816137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dexamethasone (DEX) is a common medicine that is capable of causing malformation in the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin C (Vit-C) on spermatogenesis indexes and daily sperm production (DSP) in adult mice treated with DEX. METHODS: Male Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mice were divided into four groups: Control, DEX (7 mg/kg/day), Vit-C (100 mg/kg/day), and DEX +Vit-C and treated for 7 days with intraperitoneal injection. RESULTS: A significant increase in the mean levels of serum and tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and apoptosis of Leydig cells was found in the DEX group compared to the control group. Sperm motility, DSP, tubular differentiation index, meiotic index, spermatogenesis index, the mean number of spermatocytes, round and long spermatids, and Leydig cells, and also serum testosterone level decreased in the DEX group compared to the control group. The results of this study indicate that Vit-C can significantly prevent the adverse effects of DEX on the mean number of spermatocyte, spermatid, and Leydig cells, tubular differentiation, meiotic and spermatogenesis index, DSP, sperm motility, and the mean levels of serum MDA. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our results showed that coadministration of Vit-C and DEX prevents the adverse effects of DEX on the spermatogenesis indexes and DSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Sadeghzadeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - M S Mehranjani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - M Mahmoodi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
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20
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Czuchlej SC, Volonteri MC, Regueira E, Ceballos NR. Effect of glucocorticoids on androgen biosynthesis in the testes of the toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibia, Anura). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:17-26. [PMID: 30218550 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In rat Leydig cells, glucocorticoids (GCs) inhibit testosterone production through the interaction with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). However, the sensitivity of those cells to GCs is regulated by the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Type 1 (11β-HSD1). In the testes of the toad Rhinella arenarum, the presence of an 11β-HSD similar to type 2 and a cytosolic GR has also been described. However, there is a lack of information regarding the effects of GCs on amphibian testicular steroidogenesis. In this study, the effects of corticosterone on androgen production, and the activity of two steroidogenic enzymes in toad testes were reported. Corticosterone inhibits androgen production via the GR because the GR antagonist RU486 prevents corticosterone-induced inhibition of testosterone. Corticosterone also reduced the activity of the cytochrome P450 17-hydroxylase, C17,20-lyase (Cyp450 c17 ) without affecting the 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase activity. This effect on Cyp450 c17 was likewise inhibited by RU486. On the other hand, corticosterone had no effect on the amount of steroidogenic acute regulator protein. These results suggest that GCs inhibit steroidogenesis in toad testes by reducing of Cyp450 c17 activity via a GR-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cristina Czuchlej
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Instituto de Diversidad y Evolución Austral (IDEAus CENPAT-CONICET), Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Eleonora Regueira
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA UBA- CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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21
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Halder S, Sarkar M, Dey S, Kumar Bhunia S, Ranjan Koley A, Giri B. Protective effects of red grape (Vitis vinifera) juice through restoration of antioxidant defense, endocrine swing and Hsf1, Hsp72 levels in heat stress induced testicular dysregulation of Wister rat. J Therm Biol 2017; 71:32-40. [PMID: 29301698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ability of red grape juice (RGJ), a known antioxidant, on testis of adult Wister rat to protect from oxidative stress induced damages by heat stress has been investigated in this study. Heat stress was induced maintaining body and testicular temperature at 43°C for 30min/day for 15 days using a hyperthermia induction chamber. Four groups of rats (n=6 per group) comprising of Group-I (control) -kept at 32°C, Group-II -exposed to heat stress alone, Group-III received RGJ (0.8ml/rat/day) alone and Group-IV -exposed to heat stress and received RGJ at same dose. Analysis of blood and testicular tissue exhibited significant reduction in serum testosterone, testicular superoxide dismutase, testicular catalase and testicular glutathione (all p < 0.001); whereas, significant rise in the level of serum corticosteroid, testicular lipid peroxidase and the apoptotic enzyme caspase-3 of testis (all p < 0.001) were observed along with substantial increase in testicular Hsp72 and Hsf-1, and decrease in 17β-HSD3 were noted in heat stressed rats compared to controls. In Group-IV rats, RGJ administration could restore these parameters to normal levels. The signs of retention were clear in Group-IV rats and found to be significantly different as compared to that of the Group-II rats. In testicular histology of rats exposed to heat stress alone revealed remarkable germ cell degeneration and tubular deformations which were prevented by RGJ treatment (Group-IV). The reduced number of sperm level in Group-II also restored in RGJ treatment (Group-IV). The above results indicate that consumption of RGJ may substantially protect testis from heat stress induce dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Halder
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India
| | - Mrinmoy Sarkar
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India
| | - Sananda Dey
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India; Department of Physiology, University of Gour Banga, Mokdumpur, Malda 732103, India
| | - Sujay Kumar Bhunia
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India
| | - Alok Ranjan Koley
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India
| | - Biplab Giri
- Experimental Medicine & Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Barasat, Kolkata 700126, India; Department of Physiology, University of Gour Banga, Mokdumpur, Malda 732103, India.
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22
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Sominsky L, Hodgson DM, McLaughlin EA, Smith R, Wall HM, Spencer SJ. Linking Stress and Infertility: A Novel Role for Ghrelin. Endocr Rev 2017; 38:432-467. [PMID: 28938425 DOI: 10.1210/er.2016-1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Infertility affects a remarkable one in four couples in developing countries. Psychological stress is a ubiquitous facet of life, and although stress affects us all at some point, prolonged or unmanageable stress may become harmful for some individuals, negatively impacting on their health, including fertility. For instance, women who struggle to conceive are twice as likely to suffer from emotional distress than fertile women. Assisted reproductive technology treatments place an additional physical, emotional, and financial burden of stress, particularly on women, who are often exposed to invasive techniques associated with treatment. Stress-reduction interventions can reduce negative affect and in some cases to improve in vitro fertilization outcomes. Although it has been well-established that stress negatively affects fertility in animal models, human research remains inconsistent due to individual differences and methodological flaws. Attempts to isolate single causal links between stress and infertility have not yet been successful due to their multifaceted etiologies. In this review, we will discuss the current literature in the field of stress-induced reproductive dysfunction based on animal and human models, and introduce a recently unexplored link between stress and infertility, the gut-derived hormone, ghrelin. We also present evidence from recent seminal studies demonstrating that ghrelin has a principal role in the stress response and reward processing, as well as in regulating reproductive function, and that these roles are tightly interlinked. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that stress may negatively impact upon fertility at least in part by stimulating a dysregulation in ghrelin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luba Sominsky
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Deborah M Hodgson
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science and IT, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.,School of Environmental & Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and IT, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Hannah M Wall
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
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23
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Chen CC, Chen CW, Lin PH, Chou JC, Weng TC, Jian CY, Hu S, Lai WH, Lieu FK, Wang SW, Wang PS. Interactive Effect of Corticosterone and Lactate on Regulation of Testosterone Production in Rat Leydig Cells. J Cell Physiol 2017; 232:2135-2144. [PMID: 27886378 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The increasing intensity of exercise enhanced corticosterone and lactate production in both humans and rodents. Our previous studies also demonstrated that lactate could stimulate testosterone production in vivo and in vitro. However, the production of testosterone in response to combined corticosterone and lactate on Leydig cells, and underlying molecular mechanisms are remained unclear. This study investigated the changes in testosterone levels of Leydig cells upon exposure to lactate, corticosterone or combination of both, and revealed the detailed mechanisms. Leydig cells were isolated from rat testes, and treated with different concentrations of lactate (2.5-20 mM), cortiosterone (10-9 -10-4 M) and lactate plus corticosterone. The production of testosterone were assayed by radioimmunoassay, and the key molecular proteins, including luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), protein kinase A (PKA), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), and cholesterol P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) involved in testosterone production were performed by Western blot. Results showed that testosterone levels were significantly increased with lactate, while decresed with corticosterone and lactate plus corticosterone treatment. Protein expressions of LHR and P450scc were upregulated with lactate treatment. However, PKA and P450scc were downregulated by lactate plus corticosterone treatment. This downregulation was followed by decreased testoterone levels in Leydig cells. Furthermore, acetylated cAMP, which activates testosterone production was increased with lactate, but not altered by conrtiosterone. Our findings conclude that corticosterone may interfere with lactate, and restrict lactate-stimulated testosterone production in Leydig cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2135-2144, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Chieh Chen
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chien-Wei Chen
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Po-Han Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jou-Chun Chou
- Medical Center of Aging Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Life Sciences, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ting-Chun Weng
- Medical Center of Aging Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Cai-Yun Jian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Sindy Hu
- Aesthetic Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wei-Ho Lai
- Department of Rehabilitation, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Fu-Kong Lieu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shyi-Wu Wang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Paulus S Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Medical Center of Aging Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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24
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Rosvall KA, Bergeon Burns CM, Jayaratna SP, Dossey EK, Ketterson ED. Gonads and the evolution of hormonal phenotypes. Integr Comp Biol 2016; 56:225-34. [PMID: 27252189 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icw050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormones are dynamic signaling molecules that influence gene activity and phenotype, and they are thus thought to play a central role in phenotypic evolution. In vertebrates, many fitness-related traits are mediated by the hormone testosterone (T), but the mechanisms by which T levels evolve are unclear. Here, we summarize a series of studies that advance our understanding of these mechanisms by comparing males from two subspecies of dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis) that differ in aggression, body size, and ornamentation. We first review our research demonstrating population differences in the time-course of T production, as well as findings that point to the gonad as a major source of this variation. In a common garden, the subspecies do not differ in pituitary output of luteinizing hormone, but males from the more androgenized subspecies have greater gonadal gene expression for specific steroidogenic enzymes, and they may be less sensitive to feedback along the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Furthermore, we present new data from a common garden study demonstrating that the populations do not differ in gonadal sensitivity to gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (i.e., GnIH receptor mRNA abundance), but the more androgenized subspecies expresses less gonadal mRNA for glucocorticoid receptor and mineralocorticoid receptor, suggesting altered cross-talk between the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal and -adrenal axes as another mechanism by which these subspecies have diverged in T production. These findings highlight the diversity of mechanisms that may generate functional variation in T and influence hormone-mediated phenotypic evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Rosvall
- *Department of Biology Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405 USA
| | | | | | | | - Ellen D Ketterson
- *Department of Biology Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405 USA
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Vitku J, Starka L, Bicikova M, Hill M, Heracek J, Sosvorova L, Hampl R. Endocrine disruptors and other inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 and 2: Tissue-specific consequences of enzyme inhibition. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 155:207-16. [PMID: 25066675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Numerous chemicals in the environment have the ability to interact with the endocrine system. These compounds are called endocrine disruptors (EDs). Exposure to EDs represents one of the hypotheses for decreasing fertility, the increased risk of numerous cancers and obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. There are various mechanisms of ED action, one of which is their interference in the action of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11βHSD) that maintains a balance between active and inactive glucocorticoids on the intracellular level. This enzyme has two isoforms and is expressed in various tissues. Inhibition of 11βHSD in various tissues can have different consequences. In the case of EDs, the results of exposure are mainly adverse; on the other hand pharmaceutically developed inhibitors of 11βHSD type 1 are evaluated as an option for treating metabolic syndrome, as well as related diseases and depressive disorders. This review focuses on the effects of 11βHSD inhibitors in the testis, colon, adipose tissue, kidney, brain and placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Vitku
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Luboslav Starka
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Bicikova
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Heracek
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Department of Urology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Sosvorova
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Richard Hampl
- Institute of Endocrinology, Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Prague, Czech Republic
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Hampl R, Kubátová J, Stárka L. Steroids and endocrine disruptors--History, recent state of art and open questions. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 155:217-23. [PMID: 24816231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This introductory chapter provides an overview of the levels and sites at which endocrine disruptors (EDs) affect steroid actions. In contrast to the special issue of Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology published three years ago and devoted to EDs as such, this paper focuses on steroids. We tried to point to more recent findings and opened questions. EDs interfere with steroid biosynthesis and metabolism either as inhibitors of relevant enzymes, or at the level of their expression. Particular attention was paid to enzymes metabolizing steroid hormones to biologically active products in target cells, such as aromatase, 5α-reductase and 3β-, 11β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. An important target for EDs is also steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR), responsible for steroid precursor trafficking to mitochondria. EDs influence receptor-mediated steroid actions at both genomic and non-genomic levels. The remarkable differences in response to various steroid-receptor ligands led to a more detailed investigation of events following steroid/disruptor binding to the receptors and to the mapping of the signaling cascades and nuclear factors involved. A virtual screening of a large array of EDs with steroid receptors, known as in silico methods (≡computer simulation), is another promising approach for studying quantitative structure activity relationships and docking. New data may be expected on the effect of EDs on steroid hormone binding to selective plasma transport proteins, namely transcortin and sex hormone-binding globulin. Little information is available so far on the effects of EDs on the major hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal/gonadal axes, of which the kisspeptin/GPR54 system is of particular importance. Kisspeptins act as stimulators for hormone-induced gonadotropin secretion and their expression is regulated by sex steroids via a feed-back mechanism. Kisspeptin is now believed to be one of the key factors triggering puberty in mammals, and various EDs affect its expression and function. Finally, advances in analytics of EDs, especially those persisting in the environment, in various body fluids (plasma, urine, seminal fluid, and follicular fluid) are mentioned. Surprisingly, relatively scarce information is available on the simultaneous determination of EDs and steroids in the same biological material. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Endocrine disruptors & steroids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Hampl
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Praha 1, Czech Republic.
| | - Jana Kubátová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Praha 1, Czech Republic
| | - Luboslav Stárka
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Praha 1, Czech Republic
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Deviche P, Beouche-Helias B, Davies S, Gao S, Lane S, Valle S. Regulation of plasma testosterone, corticosterone, and metabolites in response to stress, reproductive stage, and social challenges in a desert male songbird. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 203:120-31. [PMID: 24518569 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In many male vertebrates, the secretion of reproductive (gonadal androgens) and adrenocortical (glucocorticoids) hormones varies seasonally and in response to environmental stimuli, and these hormones exert numerous behavioral and metabolic effects. We performed two field studies on adult male Rufous-winged Sparrows, Peucaea carpalis, a Sonoran Desert rain-dependent sedentary species, to (a) determine seasonal changes in initial (baseline) and acute stress-induced plasma testosterone (T), corticosterone (CORT), and two metabolites (uric acid and glucose) and (b) compare the effects of two types of social challenge (song playback or simulated territorial intrusion consisting of song playback plus exposure to a live decoy bird) on plasma T, CORT, these metabolites, and territorial behavior. Initial plasma T was higher during the summer breeding period than during post-breeding molt. Acute stress resulting from capture and restraint for 30 min decreased plasma T in breeding condition birds but not in the fall, revealing that this decrease is seasonally regulated. Initial plasma CORT did not change seasonally, but plasma CORT increased in response to acute stress. This increase was likewise seasonally regulated, being relatively smaller during autumnal molt than in the summer. We found no evidence that acute stress levels of CORT are functionally related to stress-depressed plasma T and, therefore, that plasma T decreases during stress as a result of elevated plasma CORT. Thirty minutes of exposure to simulated territorial intrusion resulted in different behavior than 30 min of exposure to song playback, with increased time spent near the decoy and decreased number of overhead flights. Neither type of social challenge influenced plasma T, thus offering no support for the hypothesis that plasma T either responds to or mediates the behavioral effects of social challenge. Exposure to both social challenges elevated plasma CORT, but simulated territorial intrusion was more effective in this respect than song playback. Plasma uric acid and glucose decreased during acute stress, but only plasma uric acid decreased during social challenge. Thus, an elevation in plasma CORT was consistently associated with a decrease in plasma uric acid, but not with a change in glycemia. These results enhance our understanding of the short-term relationships between T, CORT, and avian territorial behavior. They provide novel information on the endocrine effects of acute stress, in particular on plasma T, in free-ranging birds, and are among the first in these birds to link these effects to metabolic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Deviche
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA.
| | - Benjamin Beouche-Helias
- Universite de Poitiers, Faculte des Sciences Fondamentales et Appliquees, Poitiers F-86022, France
| | - Scott Davies
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA
| | - Sisi Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA
| | - Samuel Lane
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA
| | - Shelley Valle
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA
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Karamikheirabad M, Behzadi G, Faghihi M, Raoofian R, Ejtemaei Mehr S, Zuure WA, Sadeghipour HR. A role for endocannabinoids in acute stress-induced suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in male rats. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2013; 40:155-62. [PMID: 24505561 PMCID: PMC3913894 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2013.40.4.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stress is known to be an inhibitor of the reproductive hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. However, the neural and molecular connections between stress and reproduction are not yet understood. It is well established that in both humans and rodents, kisspeptin (encoded by the kiss1 gene) is a strong stimulator of the HPG axis. In the present study we hypothesized that endocannabinoids, an important neuromodulatory system in the brain, can act on the HPG axis at the level of kiss1 expression to inhibit reproductive function under stress. METHODS Adult male Wistar rats were unilaterally implanted with an intracerebroventricular cannula. Afterwards, the animals were exposed to immobilization stress, with or without the presence of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (1 µg/rat). Blood samples were collected through a retro-orbital plexus puncture before and after stress. Five hours after the stress, brain tissue was collected for reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction measurements of kiss1 mRNA. RESULTS Immobilization stress (1 hour) resulted in a decrease in the serum luteinizing hormone concentration. Additionally, kiss1 gene expression was decreased in key hypothalamic nuclei that regulate gonadotrophin secretion, the medial preoptic area (mPOA), and to some extent the arcuate nucleus (ARC). A single central administration of AM251 was effective in blocking these inhibitory responses. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that endocannabinoids mediate, at least in part, immobilization stress-induced inhibition of the reproductive system. Our data suggest that the connection between immobilization stress and the HPG axis is kiss1 expression in the mPOA rather than the ARC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Karamikheirabad
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gila Behzadi
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Faghihi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Raoofian
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Wieteke Ameliek Zuure
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Medical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Hamid Reza Sadeghipour
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Rodas-Martínez AZ, Canales D, Brousset DM, Swanson WF, Romano MC. Assessment of adrenocortical and gonadal hormones in male spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) following capture, restraint and anesthesia. Zoo Biol 2013; 32:641-7. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alba Zulema Rodas-Martínez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias; Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del I. P. N.; Mexico D.F. México
- Departamento de Etología; Fauna Silvestre y Animales de Laboratorio de la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia de la UNAM; Mexico D.F. México
| | | | - Dulce María Brousset
- Departamento de Etología; Fauna Silvestre y Animales de Laboratorio de la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia de la UNAM; Mexico D.F. México
| | - William F. Swanson
- Center or Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife; Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden; Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Marta C. Romano
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias; Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del I. P. N.; Mexico D.F. México
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Distribution of glucocorticoid receptors and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isoforms in the human inner ear. Otol Neurotol 2013; 34:151-7. [PMID: 22996157 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0b013e31826a55ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used as a therapeutic modality for the inner ear disorders including Ménière's disease (MD). The concentration of GCs in the target cells is known to be regulated by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD), an enzyme complex responsible for the conversion of hormonally active cortisol into inactive cortisone. There is no morphologic indication of glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) and 11β-HSD isoforms (11β-HSD1 and 2) in human inner ear. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are to determine whether GRs and the isoforms of 11β-HSD are present in human inner ear tissues and to reveal their precise distribution. STUDY DESIGN This study investigated the expression of GRs and 11β-HSD isoforms (11β-HSD1 and 2) in the human inner ear. METHODS In humans, immunostaining of GRs, 11β-HSD1, and 11β-HSD2 was performed in the stria vascularis (SV) and the vestibular tissues, whereas in the cochlear tissues except for the SV, only GRs were investigated. RESULTS Immunoreactivity of GRs was detected in the SV, outer hair cells, inner hair cell, spiral ligament, Reissner's membrane, vestibular hair cells, vestibular nerve, transitional cells, and dark cells of the crista ampullaris. 11β-HSD1 was observed in the SV, the apical area of the vestibular hair cells, the transitional cells, and the dark cells. However, no immunoreactivity of 11β-HSD2 was observed. CONCLUSION Those data indicate that different local steroid regulation by GRs and the isoforms of 11β-HSD is present in various parts of the human inner ear tissues and that the tissues are a direct therapeutic target of glucocorticoids in the inner ear diseases.
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Guo J, Zhou H, Su Z, Chen B, Wang G, Wang CQF, Xu Y, Ge RS. Comparison of cell types in the rat Leydig cell lineage after ethane dimethanesulfonate treatment. Reproduction 2013; 145:371-80. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to purify cells in the Leydig cell lineage following regeneration after ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS) treatment and compare their steroidogenic capacity. Regenerated progenitor (RPLCs), immature (RILCs), and adult Leydig cells (RALCs) were isolated from testes 21, 28 and 56 days after EDS treatment respectively. Production rates for androgens including androsterone and 5α-androstane-17β, 3α-diol (DIOL), testosterone and androstenedione were measured in RPLCs, RILCs and RALCs in media after 3-h in vitro culture with 100 ng/ml LH. Steady-state mRNA levels of steroidogenic enzymes and their activities were measured in freshly isolated cells. Compared to adult Leydig cells (ALCs) isolated from normal 90-day-old rat testes, which primarily produce testosterone (69.73%), RPLCs and RILCs primarily produced androsterone (70.21%) and DIOL (69.79%) respectively. Leydig cells isolated from testes 56 days post-EDS showed equivalent capacity of steroidogenesis to ALCs and primarily produced testosterone (72.90%). RPLCs had cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 and 17α-hydroxylase but had almost no detectable 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 activities, while RILCs had increased 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 activities. Because RPLCs and RILCs had higher 5α-reductase 1 and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities they produced mainly 5α-reduced androgens. Real-time PCR confirmed the similar trends for the expressions of these steroidogenic enzymes. In conclusion, the purified RPLCs, RILCs and RALCs are similar to those of their counterparts during rat pubertal development.
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Andric SA, Kojic Z, Bjelic MM, Mihajlovic AI, Baburski AZ, Sokanovic SJ, Janjic MM, Stojkov NJ, Stojilkovic SS, Kostic TS. The opposite roles of glucocorticoid and α1-adrenergic receptors in stress triggered apoptosis of rat Leydig cells. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2013; 304:E51-9. [PMID: 23149620 PMCID: PMC3774172 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00443.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The stress-induced initiation of proapoptotic signaling in Leydig cells is relatively well defined, but the duration of this signaling and the mechanism(s) involved in opposing the stress responses have not been addressed. In this study, immobilization stress (IMO) was applied for 2 h daily, and animals were euthanized immediately after the first (IMO1), second (IMO2), and 10th (IMO10) sessions. In IMO1 and IMO2 rats, serum corticosterone and adrenaline were elevated, whereas serum androgens and mRNA transcription of insulin-like factor-3 in Leydig cells were inhibited. Reduced oxygen consumption and the mitochondrial membrane potential coupled with a leak of cytochrome c from mitochondria and increased caspase-9 expression, caspase-3 activity, and number of apoptotic Leydig cells was also observed. Corticosterone and adrenaline were also elevated in IMO10 rats but were accompanied with a partial recovery of androgen secretion and normalization of insulin-like factor-3 transcription coupled with increased cytochrome c expression, abolition of proapoptotic signaling, and normalization of the apoptotic events. Blockade of intratesticular glucocorticoid receptors diminished proapoptotic effects without affecting antiapoptotic effects, whereas blockade of intratesticular α(1)-adrenergic receptors diminished the antiapoptotic effects without affecting proapoptotic effects. These results confirmed a critical role of glucocorticoids in mitochondria-dependent apoptosis and showed for the first time the relevance of stress-induced upregulation of α(1)-adrenergic receptor expression in cell apoptotic resistance to repetitive IMOs. The opposite role of two hormones in control of the apoptotic rate in Leydig cells also provides a rationale for a partial recovery of androgen production in chronically stressed animals.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/genetics
- Apoptosis/physiology
- Cells, Cultured
- Corticosterone/blood
- Corticosterone/metabolism
- Corticosterone/pharmacology
- Corticosterone/physiology
- Drug Antagonism
- Glucocorticoids/pharmacology
- Glucocorticoids/physiology
- Immobilization/psychology
- Leydig Cells/drug effects
- Leydig Cells/metabolism
- Leydig Cells/physiology
- Male
- Mitochondria/drug effects
- Mitochondria/metabolism
- Mitochondria/physiology
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/genetics
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/metabolism
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/physiology
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- Stress, Psychological/blood
- Stress, Psychological/genetics
- Stress, Psychological/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana A Andric
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
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Legeza B, Balázs Z, Nashev LG, Odermatt A. The microsomal enzyme 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 faces the cytoplasm and uses NADPH generated by glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. Endocrinology 2013. [PMID: 23183177 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies proposed a functional coupling between 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 (17β-HSD3)-dependent testosterone formation and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1)-mediated interconversion of glucocorticoids through competition for the luminal pyridine nucleotide pool. To test this hypothesis, we used human embryonic kidney-293 cells transfected with 17β-HSD3 and/or 11β-HSD1, in the absence or presence of hexose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase that generates reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in the endoplasmic reticulum and determined enzyme activities. As an endogenous cell model, mouse MA-10 Leydig cells were used. 17β-HSD3-dependent reduction of Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione was affected by neither coexpression with 11β-HSD1 nor overexpression or knockdown of hexose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. In contrast, knockdown of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase decreased 17β-HSD3 activity, indicating dependence on cytoplasmic NADPH. Upon selective permeabilization of the plasma membrane by digitonin, 17β-HSD3 but not 11β-HSD1 was detected by antibodies against C-terminal epitope tags, suggesting a cytoplasmic orientation of 17β-HSD3. The cytoplasmic orientation was confirmed using proteinase K digestion of microsomal preparations and by analysis of glycosylation of wild-type 17β-HSD3 and chimera in which the N-terminal anchor sequences between 17β-HSD3 and 11β-HSD1 were exchanged. In conclusion, the results demonstrate a cytoplasmic orientation of 17β-HSD3 and dependence on glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-generated NADPH, explaining the lack of a direct functional coupling with the luminal 11β-HSD1-mediated glucocorticoid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Legeza
- Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
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Deviche P, Gao S, Davies S, Sharp PJ, Dawson A. Rapid stress-induced inhibition of plasma testosterone in free-ranging male rufous-winged sparrows, Peucaea carpalis: characterization, time course, and recovery. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2012; 177:1-8. [PMID: 22449619 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Revised: 02/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress generally inhibits the activity of the reproductive system. Acute stress also is often inhibitory, but the mechanism involved and its persistence of action once animals are no longer exposed to the stressor are poorly understood. We investigated the effect of capture and restraint stress on plasma testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), and corticosterone (CORT) in free-ranging male rufous-winged sparrows, Peucaea carpalis. Stress decreased plasma T between 10 and 30 min after capture and restraint but did not influence plasma LH, the main hormone that controls T secretion, suggesting that stress did not decrease plasma T by inhibiting LH secretion. The stress-induced decrease in plasma T was associated with elevated plasma CORT, but there was no evidence that these effects were functionally related. Plasma stress-induced T was positively related to plasma initial T measured within 2 min of capture. This relationship was, however, complex as plasma T decreased proportionally more in response to stress in sparrows with high than low plasma initial T. The relative sensitivity to the same stressor was, therefore, individually variable and this variation was related to initial plasma T. Birds caught and restrained for 30 min, and then released on their breeding territory before recapture up to 6 h later, maintained depressed plasma T, indicating that the effect of acute stress on this hormone persists after the stressor removal. These studies provide new information on the effects of acute stress on plasma T in free-ranging birds. In particular, they are among the first to characterize the time course and to describe the persistence of these effects. The findings also contribute to identifying factors that are associated with individual differences in plasma hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Deviche
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA.
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Herrera-Luna CV, Budik S, Aurich C. Gene Expression of ACTH, Glucocorticoid Receptors, 11βHSD Enzymes, LH-, FSH-, GH Receptors and Aromatase in Equine Epididymal and Testicular Tissue. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47:928-35. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2012.01993.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Distribution of glucocorticoid receptors and 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isoforms in the rat inner ear. Hear Res 2011; 280:148-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 05/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Yamaguchi H, Akitaya T, Yu T, Kidachi Y, Kamiie K, Noshita T, Umetsu H, Ryoyama K. Molecular docking and structural analysis of cofactor-protein interaction between NAD⁺ and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. J Mol Model 2011; 18:1037-48. [PMID: 21667072 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-011-1140-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Molecular docking and structural analysis of the cofactor-protein interaction between NAD(+) and human (h) or mouse (m) 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) were performed with the molecular operating environment (MOE). 11βHSD1 (PDB code: 3HFG) was selected as a template for the 3D structure modeling of 11βHSD2. The MOE docking (MOE-dock) and the alpha sphere and excluded volume-based ligand-protein docking (ASE-dock) showed that both NAD(+)-h11βHSD2 and NAD(+)-m11βHSD2 models have a similar binding orientation to the template cofactor-protein model. Our present study also revealed that Asp91, Phe94, Tyr232 and Thr267 could be of importance in the interaction between NAD(+) and 11βHSD2. NADP(+) was incapable of entering into the cofactor-binding site of the 11βHSD2 models. The present study proposes the latest models for 11βHSD2 and its cofactor NAD(+), and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a m11βHSD2 model with NAD(+).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Yamaguchi
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, 150 Yagotoyama, Tenpaku, Nagoya 468-8503, Japan.
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Gettler LT, McDade TW, Kuzawa CW. Cortisol and testosterone in Filipino young adult men: evidence for co-regulation of both hormones by fatherhood and relationship status. Am J Hum Biol 2011; 23:609-20. [PMID: 21638512 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.21187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2010] [Revised: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 03/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although cortisol (CORT) may suppress testosterone (T) production under stress, in many species males' T and CORT are co-elevated during mate acquisition or conspecific competition. It is presently unknown how CORT co-varies with T in relation to fatherhood/relationship status in men. Here we evaluate associations between waking (AM) and pre-bed (PM) salivary CORT and T, and with plasma total T and luteinizing hormone. We also test whether co-elevationor co-downregulation of CORT and T are present in men who are mating-oriented (non-pairbonded, non-fathers) and parenting-oriented (pairbonded and/or fathers), respectively. METHODS Data come from 630 of young adult Filipino males (21-23 years) enrolled in the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey, a population-based birth cohort study in Cebu City, Philippines. RESULTS T and CORT were positively related in AM (r = 0.37) and PM (r = 0.30) saliva samples (both P < 0.001). The positive relationship between AM measures was strengthened as caloric intake improved (interaction P < 0.05). Mating-oriented men were more likely to have co-elevated PM CORT and T (P < 0.05), defined as being in the highest tertile for both hormones, while parenting-oriented men were more likely to have co-downregulated (lowest tertile for both hormones) AM (P < 0.05) and PM (P < 0.001) CORT and T. CONCLUSIONS CORT and T are positively related upon waking and before bed and are more likely to be co-elevated in mating-oriented men and co-downregulated in parenting-oriented men. Our findings support the interpretation that CORT and T serve complementary roles in facilitating men's mating effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee T Gettler
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA
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Latif SA, Shen M, Ge RS, Sottas CM, Hardy MP, Morris DJ. Role of 11β-OH-C(19) and C(21) steroids in the coupling of 11β-HSD1 and 17β-HSD3 in regulation of testosterone biosynthesis in rat Leydig cells. Steroids 2011; 76:682-9. [PMID: 21440566 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2011.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2010] [Revised: 03/15/2011] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Here we describe further experiments to support our hypothesis that bidirectional 11β-HSD1-dehydrogenase in Leydig cells is a NADP(H) regenerating system. In the absence of androstenedione (AD), substrate for 17β-HSD3, incubation of Leydig cells with corticosterone (B) or several C(19)- and C(21)-11β-OH-steroids, in the presence of [(3)H]-11-dehydro-corticosterone (A), stimulated 11β-HSD1-reductase activity. However, in presence of 30 μM AD, testosterone (Teso) synthesis is stimulated from 4 to 197 picomole/25,000 cells/30 min and concomitantly inhibited 11β-HSD1-reductase activity, due to competition for the common cofactor NADPH needed for both reactions. Testo production was further significantly increased (p<0.05) to 224-267 picomole/25,000 cells/30 min when 10 μM 11β-OH-steroids (in addition to 30 μM AD) were also included. Similar results were obtained in experiments conducted with lower concentrations of AD (5 μM), and B or A (500 nM). Incubations of 0.3-6.0 μM of corticosterone (plus or minus 30 μM AD) were then performed to test the effectiveness of 17β-HSD3 as a possible NADP(+) regenerating system. In the absence of AD, increasing amounts (3-44 pmol/25,000 cells/30 min) of 11-dehydro-corticosterone were produced with increasing concentrations of corticosterone in the medium. When 30 μM AD was included, the rate of 11-dehydro-corticosterone formation dramatically increased 1.3-5-fold producing 4-210 pmol/25,000 cells/30 min of 11-dehydro-corticosterone. We conclude that 11β-HSD1 is enzymatically coupled to 17β-HSD3, utilizing NADPH and NADP in intermeshed regeneration systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed A Latif
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, 164, Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906, United States.
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Lopparelli RM, Zancanella V, Giantin M, Ravarotto L, Cozzi G, Montesissa C, Dacasto M. Constitutive expression of drug metabolizing enzymes and related transcription factors in cattle testis and their modulation by illicit steroids. Xenobiotica 2011; 40:670-80. [PMID: 20666625 DOI: 10.3109/00498254.2010.506562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In veterinary species, little information about extrahepatic drug metabolism is actually available. Therefore, the presence of foremost drug metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) and related transcription factors mRNAs was initially investigated in cattle testis; then, their possible modulation following the in vivo exposure to illicit growth promoters (GPs), which represent a major issue in cattle farming, was explored. All target genes were expressed in cattle testis, albeit to a lower extent compared to liver ones; furthermore, illicit protocols containing dexamethasone and 17β-oestradiol significantly up-regulated cytochrome P450 1A1, 2E1, oestrogen receptor-α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α mRNA levels. Overall, the constitutive expression of foremost DMEs and related transcription factors was demonstrated for the first time in cattle testis and illicit GPs were shown to affect pre-transcriptionally some of them, with possible consequences upon testicular xenobiotic drug metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maria Lopparelli
- Dipartimento di Sanità pubblica, Patologia comparata ed Igiene veterinaria, Agripolis Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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Deviche PJ, Hurley LL, Fokidis HB, Lerbour B, Silverin B, Silverin B, Sabo J, Sharp PJ. Acute stress rapidly decreases plasma testosterone in a free-ranging male songbird: potential site of action and mechanism. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2010; 169:82-90. [PMID: 20691650 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2010] [Revised: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
We used a free-ranging, seasonally breeding adult male songbird, the rufous-winged sparrow, Aimophila carpalis, to investigate the effects of acute stress-induced by capture followed by restraint, on the hypothalamo-pituitary-testicular axis. Intra- and interindividual comparisons revealed that males decreased their plasma testosterone (T) by 37-52% in response to acute stress. The decrease occurred within 15 min of capture and persisted for at least another 15 min. Within 15 min, the decrease in plasma T was not associated with a reduction in plasma luteinizing hormone (LH). Thirty minutes after capture and restraint, the decrease in plasma T either was likewise not associated with decreased plasma LH (intraindividual comparison) or concurred with a reduction in plasma LH (interindividual comparison). These observations indicate that effects of stress may have been mediated at the pituitary gland and also directly at the testicular levels. To address this question, we measured the hormonal response to an injection of the glutamate receptor agonist N-methyl-d,l-aspartate (NMA) to stimulate to stimulate the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or of GnRH to stimulate the release of LH. Treatment with NMA did not change plasma LH, presumably because the birds were in breeding condition and already secreting GnRH at a maximum rate. Administration of GnRH increased plasma LH equally in birds that were or were not stressed before the treatment. An injection of purified ovine LH (oLH) increased plasma T equally in birds that were or were not acutely stressed before the hormone injection. Thus, the observed acute stress-induced decrease in plasma T was apparently not mediated by decreased responsiveness of the pituitary gland to GnRH or of the testes to LH. Decreased plasma T following stress may involve a direct impairment of the testicular endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre J Deviche
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA.
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Whirledge S, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoids, stress, and fertility. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2010; 35:109-125. [PMID: 20595939 PMCID: PMC3547681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Modifications of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis and associated changes in circulating levels of glucocorticoids form a key component of the response of an organism to stressful challenges. Increased levels of glucocorticoids promote gluconeogenesis, mobilization of amino acids, and stimulation of fat breakdown to maintain circulating levels of glucose necessary to mount a stress response. In addition to profound changes in the physiology and function of multiple tissues, stress and elevated glucocorticoids can also inhibit reproduction, a logical effect for the survival of self. Precise levels of glucocorticoids are required for proper gonadal function; where the balance is disrupted, so is fertility. Glucocorticoids affect gonadal function at multiple levels in hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis: 1) the hypothalamus (to decrease the synthesis and release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH]); 2) the pituitary gland (to inhibit the synthesis and release of luteinizing hormone [LH] and follicle stimulating hormone [FSH]); 3) the testis/ovary (to modulate steroidogenesis and/or gametogenesis directly). Furthermore, maternal exposure to prenatal stress or exogenous glucocorticoids can lead to permanent modification of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal function and stress-related behaviors in offspring. Glucocorticoids are vital to many aspects of normal brain development, but fetal exposure to superabundant glucocorticoids can result in life-long effects on neuroendocrine function. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms believed to mediate glucocorticoid inhibition of reproductive functions and the anatomical sites at which these effects take place.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John A. Cidlowski
- To whom correspondence should be sent: John A. Cidlowski, NIH/NIEHS, MD F3-07, P.O. Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA, Telephone Number: (919) 541-1564, Fax Number: (919) 541-1367,
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Kalantaridou S, Zoumakis E, Makrigiannakis A, Lavasidis L, Vrekoussis T, Chrousos G. Corticotropin-releasing hormone, stress and human reproduction: an update. J Reprod Immunol 2010; 85:33-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2010.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2009] [Revised: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 02/26/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
Several signals, such as hormones and signaling molecules, have been identified as important regulators of Leydig cell differentiation and function. Conveying these signals and translating them into a genomic response to ensure an accurate physiological output requires the action of a network of transcription factors, including those belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily. Nuclear receptors regulate expression of genes important for growth, differentiation, development, and homeostasis. Several nuclear receptors, such as steroid hormone receptors (NR3A and NR3C families), are activated upon ligand binding, whereas others, including members of the NR2C, NR2F, and NR4A families, either do not require a ligand or ligands have yet to be identified. Several nuclear receptors (e.g., NR2F2 and NR5A1) have been shown to play essential roles in Leydig cells, whereas for others (e.g., NR2B1 and NR4A1), the assessment of their function has been precluded by the early embryonic lethality associated with null mice or by redundancy mechanisms by other family members. This is now being overcome with the generation of novel approaches, including Leydig cell-specific knockout models. This review provides an overview of the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors as they relate to Leydig cell gene expression and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc J Martin
- Reproduction, Perinatal, and Child Health, Research Centre du Centre Universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada.
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Gray M, Bingham B, Viau V. A comparison of two repeated restraint stress paradigms on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis habituation, gonadal status and central neuropeptide expression in adult male rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2010; 22:92-101. [PMID: 20002965 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2009.01941.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The available evidence continues to illustrate an inhibitory influence of male gonadal activity on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis under acute stress. However, far less is known about how these systems interact during repeated stress. Because HPA output consistently declines across studies examining repeated restraint, the potential mechanisms mediating this habituation are often inferred as being equivalent, even though these studies use a spectrum of restraint durations and exposures. To test this generalisation, as well as to emphasise a potential influence of the male gonadal axis on the process of HPA habituation, we compared the effects of two commonly used paradigms of repeated restraint in the rodent: ten daily episodes of 0.5 h of restraint and five daily episodes of 3 h of restraint. Both paradigms produced comparable declines in adrenocorticotrophic hormone and corticosterone between the first and last day of testing. However, marked differences in testosterone levels, as well as corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) expression, occurred between the two stress groups. Plasma testosterone levels remained relatively higher in animals exposed to 0.5 h of restraint compared to 3 h of restraint, whereas forebrain gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) cell counts increased in both groups. AVP mRNA was increased after 3 h, but not after 0.5 h of repeated restraint, in the medial parvicellular paraventricular nucleus and in the posterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), and increased with 0.5 h of repeated restraint in the medial amygdala. CRH mRNA was increased after 3 h, but not after 0.5 h of repeated restraint, in the central amygdala and anterior BST. The data obtained illustrate that, despite comparable declines in HPA responses, the pathways recruited for stress adaptation appear to be distinct between restraint groups. Given the extreme sensitivity of limbic AVP to testosterone, and conversely CRH to circulating glucocorticoids, whether differences in endocrine profiles might explain these neuropeptide differences remains to be seen. Nonetheless, the present study provides several new entry points for testing gonadal influences on stress-specific HPA habituation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gray
- Neuroscience Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Regulation of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 and 2 by IGF-1 in mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 391:1752-6. [PMID: 20045394 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.12.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Two isoforms of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11beta-HSD1 and 11beta-HSD2) play an important role in regulation of glucocorticoid corticosterone (CORT, the active form in rodents) by the interconversion between CORT and 11-dehydrocorticosterone (11DHC, the biologically inert form). 11beta-HSD1 is an NADP+/NADPH-dependent oxidoreductase which is mainly expressed in liver and kidney, while 11beta-HSD2 is an NAD+-dependent oxidase which is predominantly expressed in kidney. The regulation of 11beta-HSD1 and 11beta-HSD2 mRNA (Hsd11b1 and Hsd11b2) levels and their activities by IGF-1 was performed in liver, kidney, and testis of IGF-1 knockout male mice. Real-time PCR showed that Hsd11b1 in liver was decreased while Hsd11b2 mRNA level was decreased in kidney of IGF-1 null mice. 11beta-HSD1 and 11beta-HSD2 activities fluctuated with the changes of their respective Hsd11b1 or Hsd11b2 mRNA levels. In conclusion, IGF-I tissue-specifically regulates Hsd11b1 and Hsd11b2 expression.
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Xiao-feng Z, Nai-qiang Q, Jing Z, Zi L, Yang Z. Di (n-butyl) Phthalate Inhibits Testosterone Synthesis Through a Glucocorticoid-Mediated Pathway in Rats. Int J Toxicol 2009; 28:448-56. [DOI: 10.1177/1091581809342596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study focused on investigating whether the inhibitory effect of di (n-butyl) phthalate (DBP) on testosterone (T) biosynthesis was mediated by the glucocorticoid (GC) pathway in prepubertal male rats and T production after the exposure to DBP ceased. Prepubertal male rats were administered DBP in corn oil orally at 0, 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg daily for 30 days. Serum T and GC were measured by radioimmunoassay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The responses, including glucocorticoid receptor (GR), type I 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1), and steroidogenesis acute regulatory protein (StAR) in the testes tissues, were determined by Western blotting and reverse transcriptase PCR. DBP exposure resulted in testicular toxicity, such as seminiferous tubule degeneration and a decrease in the number of spermatogenic cells. T was decreased and GC was increased in a DBP concentration-dependent manner in the exposure group. The expression of GR and 11β-HSD1 was significantly increased, with an associated decrease in expression of StAR. Neither the expression of the GR nor 11β-HSD1 and StAR were statistically significantly different in the postexposure group compared with the control. However, the weight and morphology of the testes did not recover in the postexposure group. These data suggest that DBP inhibits testosterone production through a GC-mediated pathway in prepubertal male rats, and after exposure to DBP ceases, testosterone biosynthesis returns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Xiao-feng
- From the Division of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZX-f, QN-q, LZ, ZY); and Division of Occupational Health, Institute of Public Health Monitor, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZJ)
| | - Qu Nai-qiang
- From the Division of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZX-f, QN-q, LZ, ZY); and Division of Occupational Health, Institute of Public Health Monitor, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZJ)
| | - Zheng Jing
- From the Division of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZX-f, QN-q, LZ, ZY); and Division of Occupational Health, Institute of Public Health Monitor, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZJ)
| | - Li Zi
- From the Division of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZX-f, QN-q, LZ, ZY); and Division of Occupational Health, Institute of Public Health Monitor, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZJ)
| | - Zhang Yang
- From the Division of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZX-f, QN-q, LZ, ZY); and Division of Occupational Health, Institute of Public Health Monitor, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China (ZJ)
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Alsop D, Ings JS, Vijayan MM. Adrenocorticotropic hormone suppresses gonadotropin-stimulated estradiol release from zebrafish ovarian follicles. PLoS One 2009; 4:e6463. [PMID: 19649243 PMCID: PMC2714464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2009] [Accepted: 06/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While stress is known to impact reproductive performance, the pathways involved are not entirely understood. Corticosteroid effects on the functioning of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis are thought to be a key aspect of stress-mediated reproductive dysfunction. A vital component of the stress response is the pituitary secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which binds to the melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R) in the adrenal glands and activates cortisol biosynthesis. We recently reported MC2R mRNA abundance in fish gonads leading to the hypothesis that ACTH may be directly involved in gonadal steroid modulation. Using zebrafish (Danio rerio) ovarian follicles, we tested the hypothesis that acute ACTH stimulation modulates cortisol and estradiol (E(2)) secretion. ACTH neither affected cortisol nor unstimulated E(2) release from ovarian follicles. However, ACTH suppressed human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-stimulated E(2) secretion in a dose-related manner, with a maximum decrease of 62% observed at 1 I.U. ACTH mL(-1). This effect of ACTH on E(2) release was not observed in the presence of either 8-bromo-cAMP or forskolin, suggesting that the mechanism(s) involved in steroid attenuation was upstream of adenylyl cyclase activation. Overall, our results suggest that a stress-induced rise in plasma ACTH levels may initiate a rapid down-regulation of acute stimulated E(2) biosynthesis in the zebrafish ovary, underscoring a novel physiological role for this pituitary peptide in modulating reproductive activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Alsop
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer S. Ings
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Kardon T, Senesi S, Marcolongo P, Legeza B, Bánhegyi G, Mandl J, Fulceri R, Benedetti A. Maintenance of luminal NADPH in the endoplasmic reticulum promotes the survival of human neutrophil granulocytes. FEBS Lett 2008; 582:1809-15. [PMID: 18472006 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2008.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2008] [Revised: 04/21/2008] [Accepted: 04/27/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study demonstrates the expression of hexose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 in human neutrophils, and the presence and activity of these enzymes in the microsomal fraction of the cells. Their concerted action together with the previously described glucose-6-phosphate transporter is responsible for cortisone-cortisol interconversion detected in human neutrophils. Furthermore, the results suggest that luminal NADPH generation by the cortisol dehydrogenase activity of 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 prevents neutrophil apoptosis provoked by the inhibition of the glucose-6-phosphate transporter. In conclusion, the maintenance of the luminal NADPH pool is an important antiapoptotic factor in neutrophil granulocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Kardon
- Semmelweis Egyetem Orvosi Vegytani, Molekuláris Biológiai és Patobiokémiai Intézete & MTA-SE Patobiokémiai Kutatócsoport, Budapest, Hungary
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