1
|
Progesterone receptor expression in fibromuscular dysplasia: A report of two unusual cases. TURK GOGUS KALP DAMAR CERRAHISI DERGISI-TURKISH JOURNAL OF THORACIC AND CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY 2019; 27:234-240. [PMID: 32082860 DOI: 10.5606/tgkdc.dergisi.2019.15051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Fibromuscular dysplasia is rarely biopsied. Progesterone receptor expression in myofibroblastic cells is useful for the histopathological evaluation in difficult-to-diagnose cases. Herein, we report two unusual cases of fibromuscular dysplasia in which progesterone receptor expression was shown in vessel sections.
Collapse
|
2
|
Cavalari FC, da Rosa LA, Escott GM, Dourado T, de Castro AL, Kohek MBDF, Ribeiro MFM, Partata WA, de Fraga LS, Loss EDS. Epitestosterone- and testosterone-replacement in immature castrated rats changes main testicular developmental characteristics. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 461:112-121. [PMID: 28870779 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Epitestosterone is the 17α-epimer of testosterone and has been described as an anti-androgen, since it inhibits the effects produced by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone via the nuclear androgen receptor (nAR). However, epitestosterone also displays an effect which is similar to the non-classical effect of testosterone, depolarizing the membrane potential of Sertoli cells and inducing a rapid Ca2+ uptake. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a treatment with epitestosterone on developmental parameters of immature rats. Animals were chemically castrated by using the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist cetrorelix and then received a replacement of 7 days with epitestosterone or testosterone. Replacement with either epitestosterone or testosterone restored the anogenital distance (AGD) and testicular weight which had been reduced by chemical castration. The immunocontent of nAR and the nAR-immunoreactivity were reduced by epitestosterone treatment in the testis of both castrated and non-castrated animals. Furthermore, testosterone was unable of changing the membrane potential of Sertoli cells through its non-classical action in the group of animals castrated and replaced with epitestosterone. In conclusion, in relation to the level of protein expression of nAR epitestosterone acts as an anti-androgen. However, it acts in the same way as testosterone when genital development parameters are evaluated. Moreover, in castrated rats epitestosterone suppressed the non-classical response of testosterone, changing the pattern of testosterone signalling via a membrane mechanism in Sertoli cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Carvalho Cavalari
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Abreu da Rosa
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Monteiro Escott
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Tadeu Dourado
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Alexandre Luz de Castro
- Centro Universitário Ritter dos Reis, UNIRITTER, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, UFCSPA, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | | | - Maria Flávia Marques Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Interação Neuro-Humoral, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Wania Aparecida Partata
- Laboratório de Neurobiologia Comparada, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Luciano Stürmer de Fraga
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Eloísa da Silveira Loss
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, PPG Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Sarmento Leite 500, Sala 337, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Roh SG, Carroll JA, Kim SW. Effects of fermented soybean meal on innate immunity-related gene expressions in nursery pigs acutely challenged with lipopolysaccharides. Anim Sci J 2015; 86:508-16. [PMID: 25440755 DOI: 10.1111/asj.12319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This experiment was to determine if replacing soybean meal with fermented soybean meal (FSBM) would reduce the innate immune response after lipopolysaccharide challenge and the changes of gene expression profiles associated with this response. Forty-eight 21 day-old pigs were housed individually and fed three diets for 15 days: CON (a diet without FSBM or spray-dried plasma protein; SDPP), PP7 (a diet with 7% SDPP), and FS10 (a diet with 10% FSBM). Pigs were fitted with a jugular vein catheters receiving lipopolysaccharide challenge (25 μg/kg body weight (BW)) on day 15. Blood was collected for 5 h at 30-min intervals to measure cortisol. Expressions of gene transcripts in total RNA from leukocytes were compared using an oligonucleotide microarray at 210 min after lipopolysaccharides injection. Cortisol of FS10 was lower (P < 0.05) than CON after lipopolysaccharides challenge. The expression levels of 17 transcripts, including cytosolic glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase A4-4 were increased (P < 0.05), whereas 23 genes including adiponectin, neonatal Fc receptor and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 5 were decreased (P < 0.05) in FS10. This study suggests that FSBM-fed pigs can modulate expression of genes related to inflammatory response and anti-oxidant activity which can be a potential reason for reduced serum cortisol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Gun Roh
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Lab of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hill BJF, Muldrew E. Oestrogen upregulates the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase pump in coronary arteries. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2015; 41:430-6. [PMID: 24684418 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The presence of circulating plasma 17β-oestradiol (E2) is beneficial in women against abnormal vascular tone development, such as coronary arterial vasospasms. Several vascular diseases have demonstrated that increased expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) -ATPase pump (SERCA2b) serves to limit the excessive accumulation of intracellular Ca(2+) . Therefore, the hypothesis of the present study was that E2 would increase SERCA2b expression in the coronary vasculature. Coronary arteries were dissected from hearts obtained from mature female pigs. Artery segments were cultured for 24 h in E2 (1 pmol/L or 1 nmol/L) and homogenized for western blot analysis. At 1 nmol/L, E2 induced an approximate 50% increase in immunoreactivity for SERCA2b. In addition, E2 increased the protein expression of the known SERCA regulatory proteins, protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase G (PKG). The E2-induced increase in SERCA2b was attenuated when the culture medium was supplemented with the oestrogen receptor (ER) α/β antagonist ICI 182,780 and the PKG antagonist KT5823 (10 μmol/L, 24 h for both). The PKA antagonist (KT5720; 10 μmol/L, 24 h) had no effect on SERCA2b expression. Removal of the endothelium (using a wooden toothpick) from artery segments prior to culture decreased the E2-mediated increase in SERCA2b and PKG expression by 45% and 47%, respectively. Overall, the findings suggest that one of the potential cardiovascular benefits of E2 in women is upregulation of SERCA2b, via activation of the classic ERα and ERβ pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brent J F Hill
- Department of Biology, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, AR, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Walsh JP, Kitchens AC. Testosterone therapy and cardiovascular risk. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2014; 25:250-7. [PMID: 25467243 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2014.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous testosterone levels are inversely associated with cardiovascular risk in older men and men with cardiovascular disease. Current data on cardiovascular outcomes of testosterone therapy include only observational studies and adverse event monitoring in short-term trials that were not designed to measure cardiovascular outcomes. These studies have yielded conflicting results, and some have raised concerns that testosterone therapy may increase cardiovascular risk. A well-designed, adequately powered, prospective trial will ultimately be required to clarify whether testosterone therapy impacts cardiovascular outcomes. This review describes the findings and limitations of recent studies of cardiovascular risk in older men on testosterone therapy and discusses some of the mechanisms through which testosterone may modify cardiovascular risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James P Walsh
- Division of Endocrinology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; Endocrinology Section, Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN.
| | - Anne C Kitchens
- Division of Endocrinology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Niessen NA, Balthazart J, Ball GF, Charlier TD. C-fos down-regulation inhibits testosterone-dependent male sexual behavior and the associated learning. Eur J Neurosci 2013; 38:3325-37. [PMID: 23895306 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Environmental stimulation results in an increased expression of transcription factors called immediate early genes (IEGs) in specific neuronal populations. In male Japanese quail, copulation with a female increases the expression of the IEGs zenk and c-fos in the medial pre-optic nucleus (POM), a key nucleus controlling male sexual behavior. The functional significance of this increased IEG expression that follows performance of copulatory behavior is unknown. We addressed this question by repeatedly quantifying the performance of appetitive (learned social proximity response) and consummatory (actual copulation) sexual behavior in castrated, testosterone-treated males that received daily intra-cerebroventricular injection of an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide targeting c-fos or control vehicle. Daily antisense injections significantly inhibited the expression of copulatory behavior as well as the acquisition of the learned social proximity response. A strong reduction of the proximity response was still observed in antisense-treated birds that copulated with a female, ruling out the indirect effect of the absence of interactions with females on the learning process. After a 2-day interruption of behavioral testing but not of antisense injections, birds were submitted to a final copulatory test that confirmed the behavioral inhibition in antisense-injected birds. Brains were collected at 90 min after the behavioral testing for quantification of c-fos-immunoreactive cells. A significant reduction of the number of c-fos-positive cells in the POM but not in other brain regions was observed following antisense injection. Taken together, the data suggest that c-fos expression in the POM modulates copulatory behavior and sexual learning in male quail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neville-Andrew Niessen
- Research Group in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1 (Bat. B36), B-4000, Liège 1, Belgium
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Reslan OM, Khalil RA. Vascular effects of estrogenic menopausal hormone therapy. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2012; 7:47-70. [PMID: 21864249 DOI: 10.2174/157488712799363253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2011] [Revised: 07/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is more common in men and postmenopausal women (Post-MW) than premenopausal women (Pre-MW). Despite recent advances in preventive measures, the incidence of CVD in women has shown a rise that matched the increase in the Post-MW population. The increased incidence of CVD in Post-MW has been related to the decline in estrogen levels, and hence suggested vascular benefits of endogenous estrogen. Experimental studies have identified estrogen receptor ERα, ERβ and a novel estrogen binding membrane protein GPR30 (GPER) in blood vessels of humans and experimental animals. The interaction of estrogen with vascular ERs mediates both genomic and non-genomic effects. Estrogen promotes endothelium-dependent relaxation by increasing nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and hyperpolarizing factor. Estrogen also inhibits the mechanisms of vascular smooth muscle (VSM) contraction including [Ca2+]i, protein kinase C and Rho-kinase. Additional effects of estrogen on the vascular cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix, lipid profile and the vascular inflammatory response have been reported. In addition to the experimental evidence in animal models and vascular cells, initial observational studies in women using menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT) have suggested that estrogen may protect against CVD. However, randomized clinical trials (RCTs) such as the Heart and Estrogen/ progestin Replacement Study (HERS) and the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), which examined the effects of conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) in older women with established CVD (HERS) or without overt CVD (WHI), failed to demonstrate protective vascular effects of estrogen treatment. Despite the initial set-back from the results of MHT RCTs, growing evidence now supports the 'timing hypothesis', which suggests that MHT could increase the risk of CVD if started late after menopause, but may produce beneficial cardiovascular effects in younger women during the perimenopausal period. The choice of an appropriate MHT dose, route of administration, and estrogen/progestin combination could maximize the vascular benefits of MHT and minimize other adverse effects, especially if given within a reasonably short time after menopause to women that seek MHT for the relief of menopausal symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ossama M Reslan
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratory, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mackay J, Pearce MC, Thevasagayam S, Doran O. Fatty acid composition and lipogenic enzyme protein expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue of male pigs vaccinated against boar taint, barrows, and entire boars. J Anim Sci 2012; 91:395-404. [PMID: 23048133 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2011-4685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives of this study were to compare fatty acid composition of subcutaneous adipose tissue of entire boars, barrows, and male pigs vaccinated against boar taint with a vaccine containing a GnRH analogue-protein conjugate (Improvac, Pfizer Animal Health) and to investigate the association between fatty acid composition and protein expression of key lipogenic enzymes in entire boars, barrows, and vaccinated pigs. Differences between groups were observed in the content of total SFA (P≤0.001), MUFA (P=0.035), and n-6 PUFA (P≤0.001) but not n-3 PUFA (P=0.373). Total SFA were greater (P<0.001) in barrows and vaccinated pigs compared with entire animals. This was accompanied by an increase (P<0.05) in the protein expression of the lipogenic enzyme fatty acid synthase in barrows and vaccinated pigs. Total MUFA content was increased (P<0.001) in barrows compared with entire and vaccinated pigs. This was not accompanied (P>0.05) by an increase in expression of stearoyl-CoA desaturase protein, the enzyme catalyzing MUFA biosyntheses. Total n-6 PUFA content did not differ (P<0.001) between entire and vaccinated pigs but was lower in barrows. Expression of Δ6-desaturase protein, one of the key enzymes of PUFA biosynthesis, was greater (P<0.05) in vaccinated pigs than in barrows but did not differ significantly between vaccinated and entire animals. We conclude that fatty acid profile of animals vaccinated against boar taint is similar to that of entire male pigs and that the effect of physical castration and vaccination on fatty acid composition involves changes in lipogenic enzyme protein expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Mackay
- Centre for Research in Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate global gene expression patterns in the common iliac arteries of monkeys with a varied extent of atherosclerosis. METHODS The left common iliac artery was removed from ovariectomized cynomolgus monkeys (n = 12) after 6.5 years of consuming a diet containing fat and cholesterol at levels comparable with those consumed in Western populations. Arterial gene expression was analyzed using DNA microarray and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Significant differential expression of 986 genes was observed in iliac arteries containing moderate to large atherosclerotic plaques compared with normal/minimally affected reference group arteries. Atherosclerosis-associated genes included cytokines, chemokines, components of signal transduction pathways, and transcriptional activators and repressors, as well as other functional categories. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction confirmed a differential expression of genes chosen from a variety of functional categories. Specifically, the expression of genes for estrogen receptor-1, claudin 11, and brain heart protocadherin 7 was reduced, whereas the expression of genes for apolipoprotein E, growth differentiation factor 15, superoxide dismutase-2, SET domain bifurcated 2, phospholipase A2 group IIA, phospholipase A2 group VII, and ring finger protein 149 was increased in atherosclerotic arteries. CONCLUSIONS The gene expression environment in arteries containing atherosclerotic plaques is profoundly different from that of relatively unaffected arteries and reflects the cellular and molecular complexity of atherosclerosis and associated arterial remodeling processes.
Collapse
|
10
|
Toot JD, Reho JJ, Ramirez RJ, Novak J, Ely DL. Alterations in vasomotor systems and mechanics of resistance-sized mesenteric arteries from SHR and WKY male rats following in vivo testosterone manipulation. Biol Sex Differ 2012; 3:1. [PMID: 22214247 PMCID: PMC3264497 DOI: 10.1186/2042-6410-3-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Testosterone (T) and the sympathetic nervous system each contribute to the pathology of hypertension. Altered blood vessel reactivity is also associated with the pathology of high blood pressure. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of T manipulation in the regulation of resistance-sized blood vessel reactivity. Methods Adult spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) male rats at 8 weeks of age were used. The rats were divided into groups consisting of gonadally intact controls (CONT), castrate with sham implant (CAST) and castrate with T implant (CAST + T) (n = 6 to 12 per group). Following a short-term period of T treatment (approximately 4 weeks), plasma norepinephrine (NE) and plasma T were assessed by performing high-performance liquid chromatography and RIA, respectively. Resistance-sized mesenteric artery reactivity was assessed on a pressurized arteriograph for myogenic reactivity (MYO), phenylephrine (PE) responsiveness and passive structural mechanics. Results SHR and WKY males exhibited similar physiological trends in T manipulation, with castration significantly lowering plasma T and NE and T replacement significantly increasing plasma T and NE. T manipulation in general resulted in significant alterations in MYO of second-order mesenteric arteries, with T replacement decreasing MYO in SHR (P < 0.05) compared to CONT, T replacement increasing MYO, and CAST decreasing MYO in WKY rats (P < 0.001) compared to CONT rats. Additionally, PE-induced constriction was significantly altered in both strains following T treatment, with the effective concentration of PE to constrict the vessel to 50% of the total diameter significantly increased in the CAST + T SHR compared to CONT (P < 0.05). Comparisons of passive structural mechanics between SHR and WKY treatment groups indicated in SHR a significantly increased wall-to-lumen ratio and decreased circumferential wall stress compared to WKY treatment groups. Conclusions These data suggest that T and NE are involved in a complex interaction with both myogenic reactivity and structural alterations of resistance-sized blood vessels and that these factors likely contribute to the development and maintenance of hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Toot
- Department of Biology, 303 Carroll St,,The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325-3908.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Estrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators regulate gene and protein expression in the mesenteric arteries. Vascul Pharmacol 2011; 55:42-9. [PMID: 21658471 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2011.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2010] [Revised: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 05/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen has both beneficial and detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) exhibit partial estrogen agonist/antagonist activity in estrogen target tissues. Gene targets of estrogen and SERMs in the vasculature are not well-known. Thus, the present study tested the hypothesis that estrogens (ethinyl estradiol, estradiol benzoate, and equilin) and SERMs (tamoxifen and raloxifene) cause differential gene and protein expression in the vasculature. DNA microarray and real-time RT-PCR were used to investigate gene expression in the mesenteric arteries of estrogen and SERM treated ovariectomized rats. The genes shown to be differentially expressed included stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), secreted frizzled related protein-4 (SFRP-4), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), phospholipase A2 group 1B (PLA2-G1B), and fatty acid synthase (FAS). Western blot further confirmed the differential expression of sEH, SFRP-4, FAS, and SCD protein. These results reveal that estrogens and SERMs cause differential gene and protein expression in the mesenteric artery. Consequently, the use of these agents may be associated with a unique profile of functional and structural changes in the mesenteric arterial circulation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Johansson A, Løset M, Mundal SB, Johnson MP, Freed KA, Fenstad MH, Moses EK, Austgulen R, Blangero J. Partial correlation network analyses to detect altered gene interactions in human disease: using preeclampsia as a model. Hum Genet 2011; 129:25-34. [PMID: 20931231 PMCID: PMC3332147 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-010-0893-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2010] [Accepted: 09/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Differences in gene expression between cases and controls have been identified for a number of human diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms of transcriptional regulation remain largely unknown. Beyond comparisons of absolute or relative expression levels, disease states may be associated with alterations in the observed correlational patterns among sets of genes. Here we use partial correlation networks aiming to compare the transcriptional co-regulation for 222 genes that are differentially expressed in decidual tissues between preeclampsia (PE) cases and non-PE controls. Partial correlation coefficients (PCCs) have been calculated in cases (N = 37) and controls (N = 58) separately. For all PCCs, we tested if they were significant non-zero in the cases and controls separately. In addition, to examine if a given PCC is different between the cases and controls, we tested if the difference between two PCCs were significant non-zero. In the group with PE cases, only five PCCs were significant (FDR p value ≤ 0.05), of which none were significantly different from the PCCs in the controls. However, in the controls we identified a total of 56 statistically significant PCCs (FDR p value ≤ 0.05), of which 31 were also significantly different (FDR p value ≤ 0.05) from the PCCs in the PE cases. The identified partial correlation networks included genes that are potentially relevant for developing PE, including both known susceptibility genes (EGFL7, HES1) and novel candidate genes (CFH, NADSYN1, DBP, FIGLA). Our results might suggest that disturbed interactions, or higher order relationships between these genes play an important role in developing the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asa Johansson
- Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Kvinne-barn senteret, 1.etg. Øst, 7006 Trondheim, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lux R, Awa W, Walter U. An interdisciplinary analysis of sex and gender in relation to the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma. Respir Med 2009; 103:637-49. [PMID: 19181510 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2009.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2007] [Revised: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 01/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of studies confirm that pathogenesis and prevalence of bronchial asthma are age and sex dependent. Detailed physiological mechanisms of the changing sex ratios with age are not fully known, however, the gender (socio-cultural) factors are also imperative. Although multiple factors definitely influence the pathogenesis of asthma, only individual or few combinations of these have been investigated. METHODS The terms 'sex', 'gender' and plausible combinations of both were systematically researched in selected databases (Medline, Scopus) or other sources, including publications from January 2000 to June 2007. Generated articles were categorized, either as endogenous or exogenous factors influencing the pathogenesis of asthma, and divided into the following subgroups: genetic, immunological, hormonal, gynaecological, nutritional, and environmental parameters. RESULTS An increasing number of studies investigate the influence of sex and gender in the aetiology, therapy and prevention of asthma. While their results are still debatable, others regarding its initiation, perpetuation and cessation have been clarified. Recent insights into interactions at biomolecular and immunological levels greatly contribute to clarifying sex-specific influences. Despite occasional oversimplifications, a trend for explanations considering the complex interplay of different factors can be observed. This work is in line with this trend and offers explanation models from our point of view. CONCLUSIONS Some disagreements regarding the patho-physiology, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of asthma still prevail. Nevertheless, in order to better appreciate its complexity, openness to and persistent consideration for interdisciplinary as well as sex- and gender-related factors is required of the medical-research community in future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lux
- Institute of Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health System Research, Hannover Medical School, OE 5410, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30623 Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kang KW, Kim YG. Bioequivalence studies of tibolone in premenopausal women and effects on expression of the tibolone-metabolizing enzyme AKR1C (aldo-keto reductase) family caused by estradiol. J Clin Pharmacol 2008; 48:1430-7. [PMID: 18832293 DOI: 10.1177/0091270008323262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the bioequivalence of a test formulation of tibolone with the marketed reference formulation in 24 young healthy female volunteers. Tibolone is a synthetic steroid hormone for menopausal women. Volunteers were treated with the 2 formulations of tibolone (total dose of active ingredient 2.5 mg) according to a 2 x 2 crossover design with a 1-week washout period. Plasma concentrations of 3alpha- and 3beta-hydroxytibolone, which are major metabolites of tibolone, were assayed in timed samples over a 24-hour period with a validated gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method that had a lower limit of quantification of 0.5 ng/mL. The reference and test formulations gave a mean 3alpha-hydroxytibolone C(max) of 5.0 and 5.2 ng/mL, respectively, and a mean 3beta-hydroxytibolone C(max) of 16.4 and 16.5 ng/mL, respectively. The mean AUC(t) of 3alpha-hydroxytibolone was 24.7 and 24.3 ng h/mL, whereas the mean AUC(t) of 3beta-hydroxytibolone was 57.6 and 54.8 ng h/mL for the test and reference formulations, respectively. The authors did not find significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between the 2 formulations, but metabolite formation was different from reports in postmenopausal women. The authors therefore measured the effects of estradiol on the expression of the tibolone-metabolizing enzymes, from the aldo-keto reductase (AKR1C) family, using HepG2 cell (human hepatoma cells) and MCF-7 cell (human breast cancer cells). Estradiol increased mRNA levels of AKR1C1, AKR1C2, and AKR1C3 and protein levels of total AKR1C in HepG2 cells. Estradiol selectively enhanced levels of AKR1C2 mRNA in MCF-7 cells. Thus, changes in the major metabolites of tibolone might result from changes in AKR1C family expression by patient estrogen status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keon W Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, San 29, Anseo-Dong, Chonan-Si, Choungnam 330-714, Republic of Korea.
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dozier BL, Watanabe K, Duffy DM. Two pathways for prostaglandin F2 alpha synthesis by the primate periovulatory follicle. Reproduction 2008; 136:53-63. [PMID: 18390687 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has been identified as a PG necessary for ovulation, but the ovulatory gonadotropin surge also increases PGF2 alpha levels in primate periovulatory follicles. To better understand the role of PGF2 alpha in ovulation, pathways utilized for PGF2 alpha synthesis by the primate follicle were examined. Monkeys were treated with gonadotropins to stimulate multiple follicular development; follicular aspirates and whole ovaries were removed before and at specific times after administration of an ovulatory dose of hCG to span the 40 h periovulatory interval. Human granulosa cells were also obtained (typically 34-36 h after hCG) from in vitro fertilization patients. PGF2 alpha can be synthesized from PGH2 via the aldo-keto reductase (AKR) 1C3. AKR1C3 mRNA and protein levels in monkey granulosa cells were low before hCG and peaked 24-36 h after hCG administration. Human granulosa cells converted PGD2 into 11 beta-PGF2 alpha, confirming that these cells possess AKR1C3 activity. PGF2 alpha can also be synthesized from PGE2 via the enzymes AKR1C1 and AKR1C2. Monkey granulosa cell levels of AKR1C1/AKR1C2 mRNA was low 0-12 h, peaked at 24 h, and returned to low levels by 36 h after hCG administration. Human granulosa cell conversion of [(3)H]PGE2 into [(3)H]PGF2 alpha was reduced by an AKR1C2-selective inhibitor, supporting the concept that granulosa cells preferentially express AKR1C2 over AKR1C1. In summary, the ovulatory gonadotropin surge increases granulosa cell expression of AKR1C1/AKR1C2 and AKR1C3. Both of these enzyme activities are present in periovulatory granulosa cells. These data support the concept that follicular PGF2 alpha can be synthesized via two pathways during the periovulatory interval.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandy L Dozier
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 Olney Road, Lewis Hall, Norfolk, Virginia 23507, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|