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Du R, Liang T, Lu G. Modulation of empathic abilities by the interplay between estrogen receptors and arginine vasopressin. Neurosci Res 2024:S0168-0102(24)00110-X. [PMID: 39245211 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2024.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
This review examines the complex interactions between estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), delving into their significant roles in modulating empathy, a critical psychological component in human social dynamics. Empathy, integrating affective and cognitive elements, is anchored in neural regions like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. ERα and ERβ, pivotal in estrogen regulation, influence neurotransmitter dynamics and neural network activities, crucial for empathic development. AVP, key in regulating water balance, blood pressure, and social behaviors, interplays with these receptors, profoundly impacting empathic responses. The study highlights that ERα predominantly enhances empathy, especially affective empathy, by stimulating AVP synthesis and release. In contrast, ERβ may diminish empathy in certain contexts by suppressing AVP expression and activity. The intricate interplay, homeostatic balance, and mutual conversion between ERα and ERβ in AVP regulation are identified as challenging yet crucial areas for future research. These findings provide essential insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of empathy, offering new avenues for therapeutic interventions in social cognitive disorders and emotional dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Du
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences of Pain, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ting Liang
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences of Pain, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Guofang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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2
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Mosconi L, Nerattini M, Matthews DC, Jett S, Andy C, Williams S, Yepez CB, Zarate C, Carlton C, Fauci F, Ajila T, Pahlajani S, Andrews R, Pupi A, Ballon D, Kelly J, Osborne JR, Nehmeh S, Fink M, Berti V, Dyke JP, Brinton RD. In vivo brain estrogen receptor density by neuroendocrine aging and relationships with cognition and symptomatology. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12680. [PMID: 38902275 PMCID: PMC11190148 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62820-7] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
17β-estradiol, the most biologically active estrogen, exerts wide-ranging effects in brain through its action on estrogen receptors (ERs), influencing higher-order cognitive function and neurobiological aging. However, our knowledge of ER expression and regulation by neuroendocrine aging in the living human brain is limited. This in vivo brain 18F-fluoroestradiol (18F-FES) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) study of healthy midlife women reveals progressively higher ER density over the menopause transition in estrogen-regulated networks. Effects were independent of age, plasma estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin, and were highly consistent, correctly classifying all women as being postmenopausal or premenopausal. Higher ER density in target regions was associated with poorer memory performance for both postmenopausal and perimenopausal groups, and predicted presence of self-reported mood and cognitive symptoms after menopause. These findings provide novel insights on brain ER density modulation by female neuroendocrine aging, with clinical implications for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Mosconi
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Matilde Nerattini
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Steven Jett
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Caroline Andy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Schantel Williams
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Camila Boneu Yepez
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Camila Zarate
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Caroline Carlton
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Francesca Fauci
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Trisha Ajila
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Silky Pahlajani
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Alberto Pupi
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Douglas Ballon
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - James Kelly
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph R Osborne
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sadek Nehmeh
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Fink
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Valentina Berti
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Diaz Brinton
- Department of Pharmacology and Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Trout AL, McLouth CJ, Westberry JM, Sengoku T, Wilson ME. Estrogen's sex-specific effects on ischemic cell death and estrogen receptor mRNA expression in rat cortical organotypic explants. AGING BRAIN 2024; 5:100117. [PMID: 38650743 PMCID: PMC11033203 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2024.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogens, such as the biologically active 17-β estradiol (E2), regulate not only reproductive behaviors in adults, but also influence neurodevelopment and neuroprotection in both females and males. E2, contingent upon the timing and concentration of the therapy, is neuroprotective in female and male rodent models of stroke. In Vivo studies suggest that E2 may partially mediate this neuroprotection, particularly in the cortex, via ERα. In Vitro studies, utilizing a chemically induced ischemic injury in cortical explants from both sexes, suggest that ERα or ERβ signaling is needed to mediate the E2 protection. Since we know that the timing and concentration of E2 therapy may be sex-specific, we examined if E2 (1 nM) mediates neuroprotection when female and male cortical explants are separately isolated from postnatal day (PND) 3-4 rat. Changes in basal levels ERα, ERβ, and AR mRNA expression are compared across early post-natal development in the intact cortex and the corresponding days in vitro (DIV) for cortical explants. Following ischemic injury at 7 DIV, cell death and ERα, ERβ and AR mRNA expression was compared in female and male cortical explants. We provide evidence that E2-mediated protection is maintained in isolated cortical explants from females, but not male rats. In female cortical explants, the E2-mediated protection at 24 h occurs secondarily to a blunted transient increase in ERα mRNA at 12 h. These results suggest that cortical E2-mediated protection is influenced by sex and supports data to differentially treat females and males following ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L. Trout
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Christopher J McLouth
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jenne M. Westberry
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Tomoko Sengoku
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Melinda E. Wilson
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Rivi V, Batabyal A, Lukowiak K. The multifaceted effects of flavonoids on neuroplasticity. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2024; 42:93-111. [PMID: 38995810 DOI: 10.3233/rnn-230150] [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] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
There has been a significant increase in the incidence of multiple neurodegenerative and terminal diseases in the human population with life expectancy increasing in the current times. This highlights the urgent need for a more comprehensive understanding of how different aspects of lifestyle, in particular diet, may affect neural functioning and consequently cognitive performance as well as in enhancing overall health. Flavonoids, found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and derived beverages, provide a new avenue of research that shows a promising influence on different aspects of brain function. However, despite the promising evidence, most bioactive compounds lack strong clinical research efficacy. In the current scoping review, we highlight the effects of Flavonoids on cognition and neural plasticity across vertebrates and invertebrates with special emphasis on the studies conducted in the pond snail, Lymnaea stagnalis, which has emerged to be a functionally dynamic model for studies on learning and memory. In conclusion, we suggest future research directions and discuss the social, cultural, and ethnic dependencies of bioactive compounds that influence how these compounds are used and accepted globally. Bridging the gap between preclinical and clinical studies about the effects of bioactive natural compounds on brain health will surely lead to lifestyle choices such as dietary Flavonoids being used complementarily rather than as replacements to classical drugs bringing about a healthier future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Rivi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anuradha Batabyal
- Department of Physical and Natural Sciences, FLAME University, India
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ken Lukowiak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Maimaiti A, Turhon M, Abulaiti A, Dilixiati Y, Zhang F, Axieer A, Kadeer K, Zhang Y, Maimaitili A, Yang X. DNA methylation regulator-mediated modification patterns and risk of intracranial aneurysm: a multi-omics and epigenome-wide association study integrating machine learning, Mendelian randomization, eQTL and mQTL data. J Transl Med 2023; 21:660. [PMID: 37742034 PMCID: PMC10518114 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04512-w] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) pose a significant and intricate challenge. Elucidating the interplay between DNA methylation and IA pathogenesis is paramount to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic interventions. METHODS We employed a comprehensive bioinformatics investigation of DNA methylation in IA, utilizing a transcriptomics-based methodology that encompassed 100 machine learning algorithms, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Mendelian randomization (MR), and summary-data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR). Our sophisticated analytical strategy allowed for a systematic assessment of differentially methylated genes and their implications on the onset, progression, and rupture of IA. RESULTS We identified DNA methylation-related genes (MRGs) and associated molecular pathways, and the MR and SMR analyses provided evidence for potential causal links between the observed DNA methylation events and IA predisposition. CONCLUSION These insights not only augment our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of IA but also underscore potential novel biomarkers and therapeutic avenues. Although our study faces inherent limitations and hurdles, it represents a groundbreaking initiative in deciphering the intricate relationship between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors implicated in IA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aierpati Maimaiti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Mirzat Turhon
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Aimitaji Abulaiti
- Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Fujunhui Zhang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Aximujiang Axieer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaheerman Kadeer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Yisen Zhang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Aisha Maimaitili
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinjian Yang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Qin H, Liu J, Fang C, Deng Y, Zhang Y. DNA methylation: The epigenetic mechanism of Alzheimer's disease. IBRAIN 2023; 9:463-472. [PMID: 38680511 PMCID: PMC11045197 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Nowadays, with the development of the social health care system, there is an increasing trend towards an aging society. The incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is also on the rise. AD is a kind of neurodegenerative disease that can be found in any age group. For years, scientists have been committing to discovering the cause of AD. DNA methylation is one of the most common epigenetic mechanisms in mammals and plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including tumors. Studying chemical changes in the epigenome, or DNA methylation can help us understand the effects of our environment and life on diseases, such as smoking, depression, and menopause, which may affect people's chances of developing Alzheimer's or other diseases. Recent studies have identified some crucial genes like ANK1, RHBDF2, ABCA7, and BIN1, linking DNA methylation to AD. This review focuses on elucidating the relationship between DNA methylation and the pathogenesis of AD and provides an outlook on possible targeted therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao‐Yue Qin
- Department of AnesthesiologySouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Jiao‐Yan Liu
- Department of AnesthesiologySouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Chang‐Le Fang
- Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of AdelaideMelbourneVICAustralia
| | - Yan‐Ping Deng
- Department of AnesthesiologySouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratories for Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of PharmacyMacau University of Science and TechnologyMacauChina
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7
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Mosconi L, Jett S, Nerattini M, Andy C, Yepez CB, Zarate C, Carlton C, Kodancha V, Schelbaum E, Williams S, Pahlajani S, Loeb-Zeitlin S, Havryliuk Y, Andrews R, Pupi A, Ballon D, Kelly J, Osborne J, Nehmeh S, Fink M, Berti V, Matthews D, Dyke J, Brinton RD. In vivo Brain Estrogen Receptor Expression By Neuroendocrine Aging And Relationships With Gray Matter Volume, Bio-Energetics, and Clinical Symptomatology. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2573335. [PMID: 36909660 PMCID: PMC10002830 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2573335/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
17β-estradiol,the most biologically active estrogen, exerts wide-ranging effects in brain through its action on estrogen receptors (ERs), influencing higher-order cognitive function and neurobiological aging. However, our knowledge of ER expression and regulation by neuroendocrine aging in the living human brain is limited. This in vivo multi-modality neuroimaging study of healthy midlife women reveals progressively higher ER density over the menopause transition in estrogen-regulated networks. Effects were independent of age and plasma estradiol levels, and were highly consistent, correctly classifying all women as being post-menopausal or not. Higher ER density was generally associated with lower gray matter volume and blood flow, and with higher mitochondria ATP production, possibly reflecting compensatory mechanisms. Additionally, ER density predicted changes in thermoregulation, mood, cognition, and libido. Our data provide evidence that ER density impacts brainstructure, perfusion and energy production during female endocrine aging, with clinical implications for women's health.
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Maimaiti A, Turhon M, Cheng X, Su R, Kadeer K, Axier A, Ailaiti D, Aili Y, Abudusalamu R, Kuerban A, Wang Z, Aisha M. m6A regulator–mediated RNA methylation modification patterns and immune microenvironment infiltration characterization in patients with intracranial aneurysms. Front Neurol 2022; 13:889141. [PMID: 35989938 PMCID: PMC9389407 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.889141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe role of epigenetic modulation in immunity is receiving increased recognition—particularly in the context of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications. Nevertheless, it is still uncertain whether m6A methylation plays a role in the onset and progression of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). This study aimed to establish the function of m6A RNA methylation in IA, as well as its correlation with the immunological microenvironment.MethodsOur study included a total of 97 samples (64 IA, 33 normal) in the training set and 60 samples (44 IA, 16 normal) in the validation set to systematically assess the pattern of RNA modifications mediated by 22 m6A regulators. The effects of m6A modifications on immune microenvironment features, i.e., immune response gene sets, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, and infiltrating immune cells were explored. We employed Lasso, machine learning, and logistic regression for the purpose of identifying an m6A regulator gene signature of IA with external data validation. For the unsupervised clustering analysis of m6A modification patterns in IA, consensus clustering methods were employed. Enrichment analysis was used to assess immune response activity along with other functional pathways. The identification of m6A methylation markers was identified based on a protein–protein interaction network and weighted gene co-expression network analysis.ResultsWe identified an m6A regulator signature of IGFBP2, IGFBP1, IGF2BP2, YTHDF3, ALKBH5, RBM15B, LRPPRC, and ELAVL1, which could easily distinguish individuals with IA from healthy individuals. Unsupervised clustering revealed three m6A modification patterns. Gene enrichment analysis illustrated that the tight junction, p53 pathway, and NOTCH signaling pathway varied significantly in m6A modifier patterns. In addition, the three m6A modification patterns showed significant differences in m6A regulator expression, immune microenvironment, and bio-functional pathways. Furthermore, macrophages, activated T cells, and other immune cells were strongly correlated with m6A regulators. Eight m6A indicators were discovered—each with a statistically significant correlation with IA—suggesting their potential as prognostic biological markers.ConclusionOur study demonstrates that m6A RNA methylation and the immunological microenvironment are both intricately correlated with the onset and progression of IA. The novel insight into patterns of m6A modification offers a foundation for the development of innovative treatment approaches for IA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aierpati Maimaiti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Mirzat Turhon
- Department of Neurointerventional Surgery, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurointerventional Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojiang Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Riqing Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Kaheerman Kadeer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Aximujiang Axier
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Dilimulati Ailaiti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yirizhati Aili
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Rena Abudusalamu
- Department of Neurology, Neurology Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Ajimu Kuerban
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First People's Hospital of Kashgar Prefecture, Kashgar, China
| | - Zengliang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- Zengliang Wang
| | - Maimaitili Aisha
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- *Correspondence: Maimaitili Aisha
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Melino S, Mormone E. On the Interplay Between the Medicine of Hildegard of Bingen and Modern Medicine: The Role of Estrogen Receptor as an Example of Biodynamic Interface for Studying the Chronic Disease's Complexity. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:745138. [PMID: 35712451 PMCID: PMC9196248 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.745138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) interpreted the origins of chronic disease highlighting and anticipating, although only in a limited fashion, the importance that complex interactions among numerous genetic, internal milieu and external environmental factors have in determining the disease phenotype. Today, we recognize those factors, capable of mediating the transmission of messages between human body and environment and vice versa, as biodynamic interfaces. Aim We analyzed, in the light of modern scientific evidence, Hildegard of Bingen's medical approach and her original humoral theory in order to identify possible insights included in her medicine that could be referred to in the context of modern evidence-based medicine. In particular, the abbess's humoral theory suggests the identification of biodynamic interfaces with sex hormones and their receptors. Findings We found that the Hildegardian holistic vision of the organism-environment relationship can actually represent a visionary approach to modern endocrinology and that sex hormones, in particular estrogens, could represent an example of a biodynamic interface. Estrogen receptors are found in regions of the brain involved in emotional and cognitive regulation, controlling the molecular mechanism of brain function. Estrogen receptors are involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and in the epigenetic regulation of responses to physiological, social, and hormonal stimuli. Furthermore, estrogen affects gene methylation on its own and related receptor promoters in discrete regions of the developing brain. This scenario was strikingly perceived by the abbess in the XIIth century, and depicted as a complex interplay among different humors and flegmata that she recognized to be sex specific and environmentally regulated. Viewpoint Considering the function played by hormones, analyzed through the last scientific evidence, and scientific literature on biodynamic interfaces, we could suggest Hildegardian insights and theories as the first attempt to describe the modern holistic, sex-based medicine. Conclusion Hildegard anticipated a concept of pathogenesis that sees a central role for endocrinology in sex-specific disease. Furthermore, estrogens and estrogen receptors could represent a good example of molecular interfaces capable of modulating the interaction between the organism internal milieu and the environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Melino
- Research Unit of Philosophy of Science and Human Development, Faculty of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mormone
- Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Institute for Stem-Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies, Foggia, Italy
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10
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Raez-Villanueva S, Perono GA, Jamshed L, Thomas PJ, Holloway AC. Effects of dibenzothiophene, a sulfur-containing heterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and its alkylated congener, 2,4,7-trimethyldibenzothiophene, on placental trophoblast cell function. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 41:1367-1379. [PMID: 33314207 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide demand for petroleum products has resulted in increased oil and gas activities in many countries. Conventional and unconventional oil and gas extraction, production, and transport lead to increased levels of petroleum-derived polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the environment. PAH exposure has profound effects on reproduction by affecting pathways involved in placental trophoblast cell function and impairing normal placental development and function-key contributors to reproductive success. However, other components found in petroleum and wastewaters from oil and gas extraction, including the sulfur-containing heterocyclic aromatic compounds such as dibenzothiophene (DBT) and its alkylated derivatives, may also impact reproductive success. The goal of this study was to examine the effect of exposure to DBT, a compound commonly detected in the environment, and one of its alkylated analogues, 2,4,7-trimethyldibenzothiophene (2,4,7-DBT), on steroidogenic and angiogenic pathways critical for mammalian development in placental trophoblast cells (HTR-8/SVneo cells). 2,4,7-DBT but not DBT increased estradiol output in association with increased tube-like formation (surrogate for angiogenesis). These changes in angiogenesis did not appear to be related to altered expression of the key placental angiogenic gene targets (ANGPTL4, VEGFA, and PGF). Neither compound showed a concentration related effect on progesterone synthesis or its receptor expression. Our results suggest that 2,4,7-DBT can disrupt key pathways important for placental trophoblast function and highlight the importance of determining the impact of exposure to both parent and alkylated compounds. Further, these data suggest that exposure to sulfur-containing heterocyclic aromatic compounds may lead to placental dysfunction and impact reproductive success at environmentally relevant levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Genevieve A Perono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laiba Jamshed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philippe J Thomas
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alison C Holloway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Endocrine Disruptors Induced Distinct Expression of Thyroid and Estrogen Receptors in Rat versus Mouse Primary Cerebellar Cell Cultures. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9120359. [PMID: 31817561 PMCID: PMC6955918 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9120359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine system of animals consists of fine-tuned self-regulating mechanisms that maintain the hormonal and neuronal milieu during tissue development. This complex system can be influenced by endocrine disruptors (ED)—substances that can alter the hormonal regulation even in small concentrations. By now, thousands of substances—either synthesized by the plastic, cosmetic, agricultural, or medical industry or occurring naturally in plants or in polluted groundwater—can act as EDs. Their identification and testing has been a hard-to-solve problem; Recent indications that the ED effects may be species-specific just further complicated the determination of biological ED effects. Here we compare the effects of bisphenol-A, zearalenone, and arsenic (well-known EDs) exerted on mouse and rat neural cell cultures by measuring the differences of the ED-affected neural estrogen- and thyroid receptors. EDs alters the receptor expression in a species-like manner detectable in the magnitude as well as in the nature of biological responses. It is concluded that the interspecies differences (or species specificity) in ED effects should be considered in the future testing of ED effects.
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Li KX, Sun Q, Wei LL, Du GH, Huang X, Wang JK. ERα Gene Promoter Methylation in Cognitive Function and Quality of Life of Patients With Alzheimer Disease. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2019; 32:221-228. [PMID: 30947592 DOI: 10.1177/0891988719835325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alzheimer disease (AD) has been recognized as a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. This study aims to investigate the effects of estrogen receptor α (ERα) gene promoter methylation on the cognitive function and quality of life (QOL) of patients with AD. METHODS A total of 132 patients with AD and 135 healthy individuals were recruited for this study. The DNA in the peripheral blood was extracted and treated with bisulfite; then methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to determine the methylation status of ERα and ERα messenger RNA (mRNA) expression, respectively. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), activities of daily living (ADL), and Quality of Life-Alzheimer Disease scale were employed to evaluate the cognitive functions, ADL, and QOL of the participants. RESULTS The methylation group showed a decrease in ERα mRNA expression. The MMSE and ADL scores were indicative of a worse cognitive function in the methylation group. The ERα promoter methylated patients showed a higher rate of abnormal ADL score, while patients in the nonmethylation group enjoyed a better QOL. CONCLUSIONS The ERα promoter methylation is related to impaired cognitive function and QOL of patients with AD by inhibiting ERα mRNA expression and transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Xiu Li
- 1 Department of Geratology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Sun
- 2 School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling-Ling Wei
- 2 School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,3 Center of Diabetes Mellitus, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Hui Du
- 4 Outpatient Department, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Huang
- 1 Department of Geratology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Kang Wang
- 4 Outpatient Department, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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Paul RG, Hennebry AS, Elston MS, Conaglen JV, McMahon CD. Regulation of murine skeletal muscle growth by STAT5B is age- and sex-specific. Skelet Muscle 2019; 9:19. [PMID: 31230596 PMCID: PMC6589877 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-019-0204-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually dimorphic growth has been attributed to the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) axis, particularly GH-induced activation of the intracellular signal transducer and activator of transcription 5B (STAT5B), because deletion of STAT5B reduces body mass and the mass of skeletal muscles in male mice to that in female mice. However, it remains unclear why these effects are sex- and species-specific, because the loss of STAT5B retards growth in girls, but not in male mice. Our objectives were to determine whether sexually dimorphic growth of skeletal muscle persisted in STAT5B−/− mice and investigate the mechanisms by which STAT5B regulates sexually dimorphic growth. Methods Blood and skeletal muscle were harvested from male and female STAT5B−/− mice and their wild-type littermates from the onset of puberty to adulthood. Results Growth of the skeleton and skeletal muscles was retarded in both sexes of STAT5B−/− mice, but more so in males. Although reduced, sexually dimorphic growth of skeletal muscle persisted in STAT5B−/− mice with an oxidative shift in the composition of myofibres in both sexes. Concentrations of IGF1 in blood and skeletal muscle were reduced in male STAT5B−/− mice at all ages, but only in female STAT5B−/− mice at the onset of puberty. Expression of androgen receptor (AR) and oestrogen receptor alpha (ERα) mRNA and protein was reduced in skeletal muscles of male and female STAT5B−/− mice, respectively. Loss of STAT5B abolished the sexually dimorphic expression of myostatin protein and Igf1, Ar, Erα, suppressor of cytokine signalling 2 (Socs2), and cytokine-inducible SH2-containing protein (Cis) mRNA in skeletal muscle. Conclusions STAT5B appears to mediate GH signalling in skeletal muscles of male mice at all ages, but only until puberty in female mice. STAT5B also appears to mediate the actions of androgens and oestrogens in both male and female mice, but sexually dimorphic growth persists in STAT5B−/− mice. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13395-019-0204-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan G Paul
- AgResearch Ltd, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand. .,Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Waikato Clinical Campus, University of Auckland, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.
| | - Alex S Hennebry
- AgResearch Ltd, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Marianne S Elston
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Waikato Clinical Campus, University of Auckland, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - John V Conaglen
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Waikato Clinical Campus, University of Auckland, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Chris D McMahon
- AgResearch Ltd, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Gegenhuber B, Tollkuhn J. Sex Differences in the Epigenome: A Cause or Consequence of Sexual Differentiation of the Brain? Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10060432. [PMID: 31181654 PMCID: PMC6627918 DOI: 10.3390/genes10060432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Females and males display differences in neural activity patterns, behavioral responses, and incidence of psychiatric and neurological diseases. Sex differences in the brain appear throughout the animal kingdom and are largely a consequence of the physiological requirements necessary for the distinct roles of the two sexes in reproduction. As with the rest of the body, gonadal steroid hormones act to specify and regulate many of these differences. It is thought that transient hormonal signaling during brain development gives rise to persistent sex differences in gene expression via an epigenetic mechanism, leading to divergent neurodevelopmental trajectories that may underlie sex differences in disease susceptibility. However, few genes with a persistent sex difference in expression have been identified, and only a handful of studies have employed genome-wide approaches to assess sex differences in epigenomic modifications. To date, there are no confirmed examples of gene regulatory elements that direct sex differences in gene expression in the brain. Here, we review foundational studies in this field, describe transcriptional mechanisms that could act downstream of hormone receptors in the brain, and suggest future approaches for identification and validation of sex-typical gene programs. We propose that sexual differentiation of the brain involves self-perpetuating transcriptional states that canalize sex-specific development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Gegenhuber
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
- Watson School of Biological Sciences, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
| | - Jessica Tollkuhn
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
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15
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Busonero C, Leone S, Bartoloni S, Acconcia F. Strategies to degrade estrogen receptor α in primary and ESR1 mutant-expressing metastatic breast cancer. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 480:107-121. [PMID: 30389467 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of omic technologies, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying estrogen receptor α (ERα)-expressing breast cancer (BC) progression has grown exponentially. Nevertheless, the most widely used therapy for inhibiting this disease is endocrine therapy (ET) (i.e., aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen - Tam, faslodex/fulvestrant - FUL). However, in a considerable number of cases, prolonged patient treatment with ET generates the development of resistant tumor cells and, consequently, tumor relapse, which manifests as metastatic disease that is extremely difficult to manage, especially because such metastatic BCs (MBCs) often express ERα mutations (e.g., Y537S, D538G) that confer pronounced growth advantages to tumor cells. Interestingly, ET continues to be the therapy of choice for this neoplasia, which underscores the need to identify novel drugs that could work in primary and MBCs. In this study, we review the approaches that have been undertaken to discover these new anti-ERα compounds, especially considering those focused on evaluating ERα degradation. A literature analysis demonstrated that current strategies for discovering new anti-BC drugs are focusing on the identification either of novel ERα inhibitors, of compounds that inhibit ERα-related pathways or of drugs that influence ERα-unrelated cellular pathways. Several lines of evidence suggest that all of these molecules alter the ERα content and block the proliferation of both primary and MBCs. In turn, we propose to rationalize all these discoveries into the definition of e.m.eral.d.s (i.e., selective modulators of ERα levels and degradation) as a novel supercategory of anti-ERα drugs that function both as modulators of ERα levels and inhibitors of BC cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Busonero
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Leone
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Bartoloni
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Acconcia
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy.
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Qiao L, Chu K, Wattez JS, Lee S, Gao H, Feng GS, Hay WW, Shao J. High-fat feeding reprograms maternal energy metabolism and induces long-term postpartum obesity in mice. Int J Obes (Lond) 2019; 43:1747-1758. [PMID: 30622311 PMCID: PMC6614019 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-018-0304-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) closely associates with postpartum obesity. However, the causal role of EGWG in postpartum obesity has not been experimentally verified. The objective of this study was to determine whether and how EGWG causes long-term postpartum obesity. Methods C57BL/6 mice were fed with high-fat diet during gestation (HFFDG) or control chow, then their body composition and energy metabolism were monitored after delivery. Results We found that HFFDG significantly increased gestational weight gain. After delivery, adiposity of HFFDG-treated mice (Preg-HF) quickly recovered to the levels of controls. However, three months after parturition, Preg-HF mice started to gain significantly more body fat even with regular chow. The increase of body fat of Preg-HF mice was progressive with aging and by 9 months after delivery had increased 2-fold above the levels of controls. The expansion of white adipose tissue (WAT) of Preg-HF mice was manifested by hyperplasia in visceral fat and hypertrophy in subcutaneous fat. Preg-HF mice developed low energy expenditure and UCP1 expression in interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) in later life. Although blood estrogen concentrations were similar between Preg-HF and control mice, a significant decrease in estrogen receptor α (ERα) expression and hypermethylation of the ERα promoter was detected in the fat of Preg-HF mice nine months after delivery. Interestingly, hypermethylation of ERα promoter and low ERα expression were only detected in adipocyte progenitor cells in both iBAT and WAT of Preg-HF mice at the end of gestation. Conclusions These results demonstrate that HFFDG causes long-term postpartum obesity independent of early postpartum fat retention. This study also suggests that HFFDG adversely programs long-term postpartum energy metabolism by epigenetically reducing estrogen signaling in both BAT and WAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Qiao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kayee Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jean-Sebastien Wattez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Samuel Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Hongfei Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Gen-Sheng Feng
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - William W Hay
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jianhua Shao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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Acconcia F, Fiocchetti M, Marino M. Xenoestrogen regulation of ERα/ERβ balance in hormone-associated cancers. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 457:3-12. [PMID: 27816767 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) contributes to body homeostasis maintenance by regulating many different physiological functions in both male and female organs. E2 actions in reproductive and non-reproductive tissues rely on a complex net of nuclear and extra-nuclear signal transduction pathways triggered by at least two estrogen receptor subtypes (ERα and ERβ). Consequently, the de-regulation of E2:ER signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of many diseases including cancer. Among other factors, the ERα/ERβ ratio is considered one of the pivotal mechanisms at the root of E2 action in cancer progression. Remarkably, several natural or synthetic exogenous chemicals, collectively called xenoestrogens, bind to ERs and interfere with their signals and intracellular functions. In this review, the molecular mechanism(s) through which xenoestrogens influence ERα and ERβ intracellular concentrations and the consequences of this influence on E2-related cancer will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Acconcia
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiocchetti
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Sciences, Section Biomedical Sciences and Technology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, I-00146, Rome, Italy.
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18
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Ratnu VS, Emami MR, Bredy TW. Genetic and epigenetic factors underlying sex differences in the regulation of gene expression in the brain. J Neurosci Res 2017; 95:301-310. [PMID: 27870402 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There are inherent biological differences between males and females that contribute to sex differences in brain function and to many sex-specific illnesses and disorders. Traditionally, it has been thought that such differences are due largely to hormonal regulation; however, there are also genetic and epigenetic effects caused by the inheritance and unequal dosage of genes located on the X and Y chromosomes. Here we discuss the evidence in favor of a genetic and epigenetic basis for sexually dimorphic behavior, as a consequence of underlying differences in the regulation of genes that drive brain function. A better understanding of sex-specific molecular processes in the brain will provide further insight for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by sex differences. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram S Ratnu
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael R Emami
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Timothy W Bredy
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California
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Maekawa R, Sato S, Okada M, Lee L, Tamura I, Jozaki K, Kajimura T, Asada H, Yamagata Y, Tamura H, Yamamoto S, Sugino N. Tissue-Specific Expression of Estrogen Receptor 1 Is Regulated by DNA Methylation in a T-DMR. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 30:335-47. [PMID: 26683811 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism controlling tissue-specific expression of estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) is unclear. In other genes, DNA methylation of a region called the tissue-dependent and differentially methylated region (T-DMR) has been associated with tissue-specific gene expression. This study investigated whether human ESR1 has a T-DMR and whether DNA methylation of the T-DMR regulates its expression. ESR1 expression was tissue-specific, being high in the endometrium and mammary gland and low/nil in the placenta and skin. Therefore, DNA methylation profiles of the promoter of ESR1 were analyzed in these tissues and in breast cancer tissues. In all of the normal tissues, the proximal promoter regions were unmethylated. On the other hand, the distal regions (T-DMR) were unmethylated in the endometrium and mammary gland, but were moderately methylated and hypermethylated in the placenta and skin, respectively. T-DMR-methylated reporter assay was performed to examine whether DNA methylation at the T-DMR suppresses ESR1 transcription. T-DMR, but not the promoter region, had transcriptional activities and DNA methylation of the T-DMR suppressed ESR1 transcription. Early growth response protein 1 was shown to be a possible transcription factor to bind the T-DMR and up-regulate ESR1 expression. ESR1 has several upstream exons, and each upstream exon, Exon-A/Exon-B/Exon-C, had its own T-DMR. In some breast cancer cases and breast cancer cell lines, ESR1 expression was not regulated by DNA methylation at T-DMR as it is in normal tissues. In conclusion, ESR1 has a T-DMR. DNA methylation status at the T-DMR is involved in tissue-specific ESR1 expression in normal tissues but not always in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Maekawa
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Shun Sato
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Maki Okada
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Lifa Lee
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Isao Tamura
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Kosuke Jozaki
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Takuya Kajimura
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Hiromi Asada
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Yamagata
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tamura
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Shigeru Yamamoto
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sugino
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.M., S.S., M.O., L.L., I.T., K.J., T.K., H.A., Y.Y., H.T., N.S.) and Digestive Surgery and Surgical Oncology (S.Y.), Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
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Matsuda KI. Epigenetic changes in the estrogen receptor α gene promoter: implications in sociosexual behaviors. Front Neurosci 2014; 8:344. [PMID: 25389384 PMCID: PMC4211403 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen action through estrogen receptor α (ERα) is involved in the control of sexual and social behaviors in adult mammals. Alteration of ERα gene activity mediated by epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone modifications and DNA methylation, in particular brain areas appears to be crucial for determining the extents of these behaviors between the sexes and among individuals within the same sex. This review provides a summary of the epigenetic changes in the ERα gene promoter that correlate with sociosexual behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Ichi Matsuda
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Kyoto, Japan
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21
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Impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on neural development and the onset of neurological disorders. Pharmacol Rep 2014; 65:1632-9. [PMID: 24553011 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(13)71524-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Even though high doses of organic pollutants are toxic, relatively low concentrations have been reported to cause long-term alterations in functioning of individual organisms, populations and even next generations. Among these pollutants are dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides, brominated flame retardants, plasticizers (bisphenol A, nonylphenol, and phthalates) as well as personal care products and drugs. In addition to toxic effects, they are able to interfere with hormone receptors, hormone synthesis or hormone conversion. Because these chemicals alter hormone-dependent processes and disrupt functioning of the endocrine glands, they have been classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Because certain EDCs are able to alter neural transmission and the formation of neural networks, the term neural-disrupting chemicals has been introduced, thus implicating EDCs in the etiology of neurological disorders. Recently, public concern has been focused on the effects of EDCs on brain function, concomitantly with an increase in neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder as well as learning disabilities and aggressiveness. Several lines of evidence suggest that exposure to EDCs is associated with depression and could result in neural degeneration. EDCs act via several classes of receptors with the best documented mechanisms being reported for nuclear steroid and xenobiotic receptors. Low doses of EDCs have been postulated to cause incomplete methylation of specific gene regions in the young brain and to impair neural development and brain functions across generations. Efforts are needed to develop systematic epidemiological studies and to investigate the mechanisms of action of EDCs in order to fully understand their effects on wildlife and humans.
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Mendoza-Garcés L, Rodríguez-Dorantes M, Álvarez-Delgado C, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Garcia-Tobilla P, Cerbón MA. Differential DNA methylation pattern in the A and B promoters of the progesterone receptor is associated with differential mRNA expression in the female rat hypothalamus during proestrus. Brain Res 2013; 1535:71-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2013.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Mechaly AS, Viñas J, Piferrer F. The kisspeptin system genes in teleost fish, their structure and regulation, with particular attention to the situation in Pleuronectiformes. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 188:258-68. [PMID: 23624122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
It is well established that Kisspeptin regulates the onset of puberty in vertebrates through stimulation of the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormones. However, the function of kisspeptin in peripheral tissues and in other functions is still poorly understood. Recently, the evolution and distribution of kisspeptin genes in vertebrates has been clarified. In contrast to placental mammals, which have a single gene for the ligand (Kiss) and for the receptor (Kissr), fish may have up to three Kiss genes and up to four Kissr genes because of genome duplications. However, information on the genomic structure of the piscine kiss and kissr genes is still scarce. Furthermore, when data from several species is taken together, interspecific differences in the expression of kiss and kissr during the reproductive cycle are found. Here, we discuss data gathered from several fish species, but mainly from two flatfishes, the Senegalese sole and the Atlantic halibut, to address general questions on kiss gene structure, regulation and function. Flatfish are among the most derived fish species and the two species referred to above have only one ligand and one receptor, probably because of the genome reduction observed in Pleuronectiformes. However, gene analysis shows that both species have an alternative splicing mechanism based on intron retention, but the functions of the alternative isoforms are unclear. In the Senegalese sole, sex-related differences in the temporal and spatial expression of kiss and kissr were observed during a whole reproductive cycle. In addition, recent studies suggested that kisspeptin system gene expression is correlated to energy balance and reproduction. This suggests that kisspeptin signaling may involve different sources of information to synchronize important biological functions in vertebrates, including reproduction. We propose a set of criteria to facilitate the comparison of kiss and kissr gene expression data across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro S Mechaly
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.
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Matsuda KI, Yanagisawa M, Sano K, Ochiai I, Musatov S, Okoshi K, Tsukahara S, Ogawa S, Kawata M. Visualisation and characterisation of oestrogen receptor α-positive neurons expressing green fluorescent protein under the control of the oestrogen receptor α promoter. Eur J Neurosci 2013; 38:2242-9. [PMID: 23601009 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogen receptor (ER)α plays important roles in the development and function of various neuronal systems through activation by its ligands, oestrogens. To visualise ERα-positive neurons, we generated transgenic (tg) mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the ERα promoter. In three independent tg lines, GFP-positive neurons were observed in areas previously reported to express ERα mRNA, including the lateral septum, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial preoptic nucleus (MPO), hypothalamus, and amygdala. In these areas, GFP signals mostly overlapped with ERα immunoreactivity. GFP fluorescence was seen in neurites and cell bodies of neurons. In addition, the network and detailed structure of neurites were visible in dissociated and slice cultures of hypothalamic neurons. We examined the effect of oestrogen deprivation by ovariectomy on the structure of the GFP-positive neurons. The area of ERα-positive cell bodies in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and MPO was measured by capturing the GFP signal and was found to be significantly smaller in ovariectomy mice than in control mice. When neurons in the MPO were infected with an adeno-associated virus that expressed small hairpin RNA targeting the ERα gene, an apparent induction of GFP was observed in this area, suggesting a negative feedback mechanism in which ERα controls expression of the ERα gene itself. Thus, the ERα promoter-GFP tg mice will be useful to analyse the development and plastic changes of the structure of ERα-expressing neurons and oestrogen and its receptor-mediated neuronal responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Ichi Matsuda
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Graduate School of Medical Science, 465 Kawaramachi Hirokoji, Kamigyoku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan.
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25
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Meyer K, Korz V. Age dependent differences in the regulation of hippocampal steroid hormones and receptor genes: relations to motivation and cognition in male rats. Horm Behav 2013; 63:376-84. [PMID: 23238103 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Revised: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen and estrogenic functions are age-dependently involved in the modulation of learning, memory and mood in female humans and animals. However, the investigation of estrogenic effects in males has been largely neglected. Therefore, we investigated the hippocampal gene expression of estrogen receptors α and β (ERα, β) in 8-week-old, 12-week-old and 24-week-old male rats. To control for possible interactions between the expression of the estrogen receptor genes and other learning-related steroid receptors, androgen receptors (AR), corticosterone-binding glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) were also measured. Furthermore, the concentrations of the ligands 17β-estradiol, testosterone and corticosterone were measured. The spatial training was conducted in a hole-board. The 8-week-old rats exhibited higher levels of general activity and exploration during the training and performed best with respect to spatial learning and memory, whereas no difference was found between the 12-week-old and 24-week-old rats. The trained 8-week-old rats exhibited increased gene expression of ERα compared with the untrained rats in this age group as well as the trained 12-week-old and 24-week-old rats. The concentrations of estradiol and testosterone, however, were generally higher in the 24-week-old rats than in the 8-week-old and 12-week-old rats. The ERα mRNA concentrations correlated positively with behavior that indicate general learning motivation. These results suggest a specific role of ERα in the age-related differences in motivation and subsequent success in the task. Thus, estrogen and estrogenic functions may play a more prominent role in young male behavior and development than has been previously assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Meyer
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Brenneckestr. 6, 39118 Magdeburg, Germany.
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Forbes-Lorman RM, Rautio JJ, Kurian JR, Auger AP, Auger CJ. Neonatal MeCP2 is important for the organization of sex differences in vasopressin expression. Epigenetics 2012; 7:230-8. [PMID: 22430799 DOI: 10.4161/epi.7.3.19265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Several neurodevelopmental disorders are marked by atypical Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) expression or function; however, the role of MeCP2 is complex and not entirely clear. Interestingly, there are sex differences in some of these disorders, and it appears that MeCP2 has sex-specific roles during development. Specifically, recent data indicate that a transient reduction in MeCP2 within developing amygdala reduces juvenile social play behavior in males to female-typical levels. These data suggest that MeCP2 within the amygdala is involved in programming lasting sex differences in social behavior. In the present study, we infused MeCP2 or control siRNA into the amygdala of male and female rats during the first three days of postnatal life in order to assess the impact of a transient reduction in MeCP2 on arginine vasopressin (AVP), a neural marker that is expressed differentially between males and females and is linked to a number of social behaviors. The expression of AVP, as well as several other genes, was measured in two-week old and adult animals. Two-week old males expressed more AVP and galanin mRNA in the amygdala than females, and a transient reduction in MeCP2 eliminated this sex difference by reducing the expression of both gene products in males. A transient reduction in MeCP2 also decreased androgen receptor (AR) mRNA in two-week old males. In adulthood, control males had more AVP-immunoreactive (AVP-ir) cells than females in the centromedial amygdala (CMA), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST) and in the fibers that project from these cells to the lateral septum (LS). A transient reduction in MeCP2 eliminated this sex difference. Interestingly, there were no lasting differences in galanin or AR levels in adulthood. Reducing MeCP2 levels during development did not alter estrogen receptorα, neurofilament or Foxg1. We conclude that a transient reduction in MeCP2 expression in the developing male amygdala has a transient impact on galanin and AR expression but a lasting impact on AVP expression, highlighting the importance of MeCP2 in organizing sex differences in the amygdala.
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Dasgupta C, Chen M, Zhang H, Yang S, Zhang L. Chronic hypoxia during gestation causes epigenetic repression of the estrogen receptor-α gene in ovine uterine arteries via heightened promoter methylation. Hypertension 2012; 60:697-704. [PMID: 22777938 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.112.198242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor-α (ERα) plays a key role in the adaptation of increased uterine blood flow in pregnancy. Chronic hypoxia is a common stress to maternal cardiovascular homeostasis and causes increased risk of preeclampsia. Studies in pregnant sheep demonstrated that hypoxia during gestation downregulated ERα gene expression in uterine arteries. The present study tested the hypothesis that hypoxia causes epigenetic repression of the ERα gene in uterine arteries via heightened promoter methylation. Ovine ERα promoter of 2035 bp spanning from -2000 to +35 of the transcription start site was cloned. No estrogen or hypoxia-inducible factor response elements were found at the promoter. Two transcription factor binding sites, USF(-15) and Sp1(-520), containing CpG dinucleotides were identified, which had significant effects on the promoter activity. The USF element binds transcription factors USF1 and USF2, and the Sp1 element binds Sp1, as well as ERα through Sp1. Deletion of the Sp1 site abrogated 17β-estradiol-induced increase in the promoter activity. In normoxic control sheep, CpG methylation at the Sp1 but not the USF site was significantly decreased in uterine arteries of pregnant as compared with nonpregnant animals. In pregnant sheep exposed to long-term high-altitude hypoxia, CpG methylation at both Sp1 and USF sites in uterine arteries was significantly increased. Methylation inhibited transcription factor binding and the promoter activity. The results provide evidence of hypoxia causing heightened promoter methylation and resultant ERα gene repression in uterine arteries and suggest new insights of molecular mechanisms linking gestational hypoxia to aberrant uteroplacental circulation and increased risk of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Dasgupta
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
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Benedusi V, Meda C, Della Torre S, Monteleone G, Vegeto E, Maggi A. A lack of ovarian function increases neuroinflammation in aged mice. Endocrinology 2012; 153:2777-88. [PMID: 22492304 PMCID: PMC3359599 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-1925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Although several lines of evidence have indicated that menopause is associated with increased susceptibility to neurological disorders, the mechanisms involved in this phenomenon remain to be elucidated. Because neuroinflammation is a common feature of a number of brain diseases, we hypothesized that the cessation of ovarian functions and the consequent decrease in estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated antiinflammatory activity may represent a trigger for postmenopausal brain dysfunctions. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of aging and surgical menopause on the activity of ER in neuroinflammation. The present study shows that ER genes are expressed in the hippocampus, but ER transcriptional activity decreases significantly beginning at 12 months of age in intact and ovariectomized mice. With ovariectomy, we observe an age-dependent accumulation of mRNA encoding inflammatory mediators (e.g. TNFα, IL1β, and macrophage inflammatory protein-2) and changes in the morphology of astroglia and microglia. In addition, we show that aging itself is coupled with an exaggerated response to acute inflammatory stimuli with a major accumulation of TNFα, IL1β, macrophage inflammatory protein-2, and macrophage chemoattractant protein-1 mRNA in response to lipopolysaccharide administration. The response to acute inflammatory stimuli appears to be differentially modulated by the duration of hormone deprivation in 12-month-old mice. Taken together, the present results show that aging is associated with decreased ER activity, despite continuous ER synthesis, and that age-dependent neuroinflammation is strongly influenced by hormone deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Benedusi
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Fürst RW, Kliem H, Meyer HHD, Ulbrich SE. A differentially methylated single CpG-site is correlated with estrogen receptor alpha transcription. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2012; 130:96-104. [PMID: 22342840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2012.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Revised: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation of the promoter region of estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) is recognized as an epigenetic mechanism that regulates its mRNA abundance. We questioned whether tissues in male growing piglets were influenced in terms of DNA methylation by the developmentally occurring distinct plasma estradiol-17β (E2) concentrations. Additionally, we aimed at broadening the currently limited understanding of the epigenetic regulation of ESR1 in physiological settings. Three distinct genetic regions of ESR1 were analyzed using a combination of methylation-sensitive high resolution melting (MS-HRM) and pyrosequencing. Unexpectedly, major E2 concentration differences were only marginally associated with minor variations in DNA methylation and mRNA abundance. However, by analyzing two tissues showing the greatest differences in transcript abundance, we were able to find one single CpG site in the +1kb intragenic region of ESR1 strikingly differently methylated between heart vs. epididymis. Interestingly, this single CpG-site was identified as a putative binding site for the transcriptional repressor TG-interacting factor 1 (TGIF) which can recruit histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) leading to chromatin condensation. Indeed, chromatin immunoprecipitation confirmed a reduced histone H3 presence at the specific ESR1 location in case of higher DNA methylation. We therefore hypothesize that ESR1 expression may be manifested by a single-CpG-site based methylation difference impairing transcription factor binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer W Fürst
- Physiology Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
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Foster TC. Role of estrogen receptor alpha and beta expression and signaling on cognitive function during aging. Hippocampus 2012; 22:656-69. [PMID: 21538657 PMCID: PMC3704216 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This review presents evidence for the idea that the expression of estrogen receptor alpha and beta (ERα and ERβ) interacts with the level of estradiol (E2) to influence the etiology of age-related cognitive decline and responsiveness to E2 treatments. There is a nonmonotonic dose response curve for E2 influences on behavior and transcription. Evidence is mounting to indicate that the dose response curve is shifted according to the relative expression of ERα and ERβ. Recent work characterizing age-related changes in the expression of ERα and ERβ in the hippocampus, as well as studies using mutant mice, and viral mediated delivery of estrogen receptors indicate that an age-related shift in ERα/ERβ expression, combined with declining gonadal E2 can impact transcription, cell signaling, neuroprotection, and neuronal growth. Finally, the role of ERα/ERβ on rapid E2 signaling and synaptogenesis as it relates to hippocampal aging is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Foster
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610-0244, USA.
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AL-BADER MD, MALATIALI SA, REDZIC ZB. Expression of Estrogen Receptor α and β in Rat Astrocytes in Primary Culture: Effects of Hypoxia and Glucose Deprivation. Physiol Res 2011; 60:951-60. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.932167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen replacement therapy could play a role in the reduction of injury associated with cerebral ischemia in vivo, which could be, at least partially, a consequence of estrogen influence of glutamate buffering by astrocytes during hypoxia/ischemia. Estrogen exerts biological effects through interaction with its two receptors: estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), which are both expressed in astrocytes. This study explored effects of hypoxia and glucose deprivation (HGD), alone or followed by 1 h recovery, on ERα and ERβ expression in primary rat astrocyte cultures following 1 h exposure to: a) 5 % CO2 in air (control group-CG); b) 2 % O2/5 % CO2 in N2 with glucose deprivation (HGD group-HGDG); or c) the HGDG protocol followed by 1 h CG protocol (recovery group-RG). ERα mRNA expression decreased in HGDG. At the protein level, full-length ERα (67 kDa) and three ERα-immunoreactive protein bands (63, 60 and 52 kDa) were detected. A significant decrease in the 52 kDa band was seen in HGDG, while a significant decrease in expression of the full length ERα was seen in the RG. ERβ mRNA and protein expression (a 54 kDa single band) did not change. The observed decrease in ERα protein may limit estrogen-mediated signalling in astrocytes during hypoxia and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Z. B. REDZIC
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait
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Pan Y, Xu L, Wang Z, Zhang Z. Expression of oestrogen receptor α in the brain of Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii ): sex differences and variations during ovarian cycles. J Neuroendocrinol 2011; 23:926-32. [PMID: 21848648 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Oestrogen receptor (ER) α plays an important role in a variety of cognitive and behavioural functions. It has been shown that ERα expression in the brain is sexually dimorphic and is influenced by circulating oestrogen. In the present study, we mapped ERα-immunoreactive (-ir) cells in the forebrain of Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii) to examine differences in ERα-ir expression between males and females and to reveal variations of ERα-ir expression during ovarian cycles in females. ERα-ir cells were found in many forebrain regions, including the lateral septum, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial preoptic area (MPOA), anterior, arcuate and ventral medial (VMH) nuclei of the hypothalamus, as well as medial (MeA) and anterior cortical nuclei of the amygdala. Females had more ERα-ir cells in the VMH than males. Females during ovarian oestrus, but not di-oestrus or pro-oestrus, also had more ERα-ir cells in the MPOA than males. Furthermore, females in ovarian di-oestrus or oestrus had more ERα-ir cells in the MeA than males. Together, these data indicate that ERα expression in the brain of Brandt's voles is sexually dimorphic in specific brain areas. In addition, variations in the levels of circulating oestrogen during ovarian cycles can affect ERα expression in the female brain in a region-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
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Imamura T. Epigenetic setting for long-term expression of estrogen receptor α and androgen receptor in cells. Horm Behav 2011; 59:345-52. [PMID: 20619266 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2010] [Revised: 05/20/2010] [Accepted: 05/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of the nuclear estrogen and androgen receptors, ER and AR, constitutes the molecular basis for the long-lasting effects of sex steroids on gene expression in cells. The effects prevail at hundreds of gene loci in the proximity of estrogen- and androgen-responsive elements and many more such loci through intra- and even inter-chromosomal level regulation. Such a memory system should be active in a flexible manner during the early development of vertebrates, and later replaced to establish more stable marks on genomic DNA. In mammals, DNA methylation is utilized as a very stable mark for silencing of the ERα and AR isoform expression during cancer cell and normal brain development. The factors affecting the DNA methylation of the ERα and AR genes in cells include estrogen and androgen. Since testosterone induces brain masculinization through its aromatization to estradiol in a narrow time window of the perinatal stage in rodents, the autoregulation of estrogen receptors, especially the predominant form of ERα, at the level of DNA methylation to set up the "cell memory" affecting the sexually differentiated status of brain function has been attracting increasing attention. The alternative usage of the androgen-AR system for brain masculinization and estrogenic regulation of AR expression in some species imply that the DNA methylation pattern of the AR gene can be established by closely related but different systems for sex steroid-induced phenomena, including brain masculinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Imamura
- Laboratory for Biodiversity, Global COE Program, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kitashirakawa-Oiwake, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan.
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Braniste V, Audebert M, Zalko D, Houdeau E. Bisphenol A in the Gut: Another Break in the Wall? RESEARCH AND PERSPECTIVES IN ENDOCRINE INTERACTIONS 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-22775-2_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Siegel C, Turtzo C, McCullough LD. Sex differences in cerebral ischemia: possible molecular mechanisms. J Neurosci Res 2010; 88:2765-74. [PMID: 20698025 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sex is emerging as an important factor in the etiology and expression of many different pathological conditions, including stroke. Initially, the levels of sex hormones were thought to be the major contributor to these sex differences, especially after puberty, when gonadal steroid levels sharply diverge between the sexes. More recently, it is recognized that sex differences also result from the organizational effects of sex hormone exposure early in development, even in the absence of hormone exposure later in life, as well as effects mediated by the sex chromosomes themselves. Epigenetic modifications of developmental genes important in sexual differentiation and the response to sex steroid hormones are also emerging as another important contributor to sex differences in disease expression. This review describes recent research on the relationship between hormones, organizational-activational effects of gonadal steroids, and epigenetic modifications in brain pathology, focusing specifically on cerebral ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Siegel
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
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Fernández-Guasti A, Arteaga-López P, Antonio-Cabrera E. Copulation modifies AR and ERα mRNA expression in the male rat brain. Physiol Behav 2010; 101:738-45. [PMID: 20804777 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2010.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 08/13/2010] [Accepted: 08/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS One day after male sexual behavior [one ejaculation or copulation to satiety (ad libitum copulation during 4h with the same female)] androgen receptor immunoreactivity (AR-ir) is decreased and estrogen receptor alpha immunoreactivity (ERα-ir) increased in various brain areas related with its control. Seven days after sexual satiety there was a limited recovery of sexual behavior accompanied by a partial recuperation in the AR-ir. In this study we evaluated if these changes in AR-ir and ERα-ir were paralleled by variations in their respective mRNA. METHODS Sexually experienced male rats were sacrificed at different intervals: immediately, 24h or seven days after sexual satiety or 24h after one ejaculation. The changes in AR and ERα mRNA were analyzed by in situ hybridization using digoxigenine-labeled oligonucleotide probes in the MPOA, LSV and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial division, anterior (BSTMA). RESULTS AR mRNA density was decreased in the MPOA and the LSV immediately and 24h after one ejaculation or sexual satiety. Seven days after copulating to satiety, there was a recovery of AR mRNA. In the BSTMA the different behavioral conditions did not modify the AR mRNA expression. In the MPOA, LSV and BSTMA the ERα mRNA increased after a single ejaculation and at all intervals after sexual satiety. CONCLUSION In some brain areas and after some intervals of sexual activity, the changes in steroid protein receptors expression seem to be consequence of parallel changes in the expression of the respective mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alonso Fernández-Guasti
- Department of Pharmacobiology, CINVESTAV, Calzada de los Tenorios 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Del. Tlalpan, México City, D. F. 14330 México.
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Versini A, Ramoz N, Le Strat Y, Scherag S, Ehrlich S, Boni C, Hinney A, Hebebrand J, Romo L, Guelfi JD, Gorwood P. Estrogen receptor 1 gene (ESR1) is associated with restrictive anorexia nervosa. Neuropsychopharmacology 2010; 35:1818-25. [PMID: 20375995 PMCID: PMC3055492 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2010.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a highly heritable young-onset psychiatric illness the etiology of which remains unknown. Estrogen alpha and beta receptors, encoded by ESR1 and ESR2 genes, are involved in food intake regulation and eating behavior, and may have a potential role in AN. We performed a family-based association study of 17 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) encompassing ESR1 and ESR2 genes in a cohort of 321 French AN families. We attempted to replicate this finding in a cohort of 41 restrictive AN (RAN) families and in a population-based study of 693 young women. Using the transmission disequilibrium test, a significant over-transmission was detected between AN and ESR1 rs726281 and rs2295193. These SNPs and another among ESR1 were more specifically associated with the RAN subtype (rs726281, p=0.005, odds ratio (OR)=2.1, 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=1.2-3.6; rs3798577, p=0.021, OR=1.6, 95% CI=1.1-2.3; and rs2295193, p=0.007, OR=1.7, 95% CI=1.2-2.5). A large eight-SNPs haplotype of ESR1 gene was also associated with AN (p<0.0001, OR=3.1, 95% CI=1.8-5.1). Association of ESR1 SNPs and RAN was driven by paternal over-transmissions (p<0.0001, OR=3.7, 95% CI=1.9-7.3). Furthermore, we confirmed the preferential paternal over-transmission of the ESR1 rs726281 on the independent German sample of 41 RAN trios (p=0.025, OR=3, 95% CI=1.1-8.3). Finally, rs3798577 was associated with eating disorders in a population-based sample of 693 women (p<0.01). Our findings are strongly in favor of an association between ESR1 polymorphisms and AN. In particular, ESR1 gene confers a high risk of vulnerability to the restrictive subtype of AN, and suggests that the estrogen pathway has to be further analyzed in AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Versini
- INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, University Paris Descartes, 2ter rue d'Alésia, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Ramoz
- INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, University Paris Descartes, 2ter rue d'Alésia, Paris, France,INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, 2ter rue d'Alesia, Paris 75014, France, Tel: +331 407 89 283, Fax: +331 407 89 280, E-mail:
| | - Yann Le Strat
- INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, University Paris Descartes, 2ter rue d'Alésia, Paris, France
| | - Susann Scherag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr 174, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan Ehrlich
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudette Boni
- INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, University Paris Descartes, 2ter rue d'Alésia, Paris, France
| | - Anke Hinney
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr 174, Essen, Germany
| | - Johannes Hebebrand
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr 174, Essen, Germany
| | - Lucia Romo
- Laboratoire Evaclispy, Université Paris 10 Ouest Nanterre La Défense, Nanterre, France
| | - Julien-Daniel Guelfi
- Sainte-Anne Hospital Center (CHSA), Clinic for Mental and Brain Diseases (CMME), 100 rue de la Santé, Paris, France
| | - Philip Gorwood
- INSERM U894-Team 1, Center of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, University Paris Descartes, 2ter rue d'Alésia, Paris, France,Sainte-Anne Hospital Center (CHSA), Clinic for Mental and Brain Diseases (CMME), 100 rue de la Santé, Paris, France
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Hartz AMS, Madole EK, Miller DS, Bauer B. Estrogen receptor beta signaling through phosphatase and tensin homolog/phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/glycogen synthase kinase 3 down-regulates blood-brain barrier breast cancer resistance protein. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2010; 334:467-76. [PMID: 20460386 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.110.168930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is an ATP-driven efflux pump at the blood-brain barrier that limits central nervous system pharmacotherapy. Our previous studies showed rapid loss of BCRP transport activity in rat brain capillaries exposed to low concentrations of 17-beta-estradiol (E2); this occurred without acute change in BCRP protein expression. Here, we describe a pathway through which sustained, extended exposure to E2 signals down-regulation of BCRP at the blood-brain barrier. Six-hour exposure of isolated rat and mouse brain capillaries to E2 reduced BCRP transport activity and BCRP monomer and dimer expression. Experiments with brain capillaries from estrogen receptor (ER)alpha and ERbeta knockout mice and with ER agonists and antagonists showed that E2 signaled through ERbeta to down-regulate BCRP expression. In rat brain capillaries, E2 increased unphosphorylated, active phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN); decreased phosphorylated, active Akt; and increased phosphorylated, active glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3. Consistent with this, inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) or Akt decreased BCRP activity and protein expression, and inhibition of PTEN or GSK3 reversed the E2 effect on BCRP. Lactacystin, a proteasome inhibitor, abolished E2-mediated BCRP down-regulation, suggesting internalization followed by transporter degradation. Dosing mice with E2 reduced BCRP activity in brain capillaries within 1 h; this reduction persisted for 24 h. BCRP protein expression in brain capillaries was unchanged 1 h after E2 dosing but was substantially reduced 6 and 24 h after dosing. Thus, E2 signals through ERbeta, PTEN/PI3K/Akt/GSK3 to stimulate proteasomal degradation of BCRP. These in vitro and in vivo findings imply that E2-mediated down-regulation of blood-brain barrier BCRP has the potential to increase brain uptake of chemotherapeutics that are BCRP substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M S Hartz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School Duluth, University of Minnesota, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, USA
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Hamada T, Sakuma Y. Estrogen receptor {alpha} gene promoter 0/B usage in the rat sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area. Endocrinology 2010; 151:1923-8. [PMID: 20185767 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-1022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The volume of the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (SDN-POA) is two to four times larger in male rats than in females; however, the mechanism for the establishment of sexual dimorphism and the function of this nucleus is almost unknown. Perinatal estrogen can cause sexual dimorphism via the estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha). Recently, transgenic rats were generated that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of the ERalpha gene promoter 0/B to tag ERalpha-positive neurons in the brain. In the present study, we examined whether this EGFP expression could be a marker for the SDN-POA in adults. EGFP-labeled cells were distributed in the core of the SDN-POA (0/B-SDN) of male and female transgenic rats, in accordance with the Nissl staining and immunoreactivity for the SDN marker, calbindin. They were also immunoreactive for ERalpha. The core was bigger in volume and contained more 0/B-SDN neurons in males than in females. The EGFP-tagged cells were packed more densely in the female core than that in males. Subcutaneous injection of 100 mug 17beta-estradiol to females on the day of birth, or orchidectomy of male neonates, reversed the sexually dimorphic phenotype of the volume of the 0/B-SDN, despite not affecting the cell number. We suggest that this EGFP expression in the SDN-POA could be a useful marker to clarify the sexual differentiation and function of the SDN-POA. Moreover, the ERalpha gene promoter 0/B plays a key role in the organization of the sexual differentiation of the SDN-POA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Hamada
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan
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Reyes-Guerrero G, Guzmán C, García DE, Camacho-Arroyo I, Vázquez-García M. Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields differentially regulate estrogen receptor-α and -β expression in the rat olfactory bulb. Neurosci Lett 2010; 471:109-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2009] [Revised: 01/07/2010] [Accepted: 01/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Fan X, Xu H, Warner M, Gustafsson JÅ. ERβ in CNS: New Roles in Development and Function. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2010; 181:233-50. [DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(08)81013-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tsai HW, Grant PA, Rissman EF. Sex differences in histone modifications in the neonatal mouse brain. Epigenetics 2009; 4:47-53. [PMID: 19029819 DOI: 10.4161/epi.4.1.7288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in neural development are established via a number of cellular processes (i.e., migration, death and survival). One critical factor identified is the neonatal rise in testosterone (T) which activates gene transcription via androgen (AR) and, after aromatization to estradiol, estrogen receptors (ERalpha and beta). Recent evidence shows that AR and ERs interact with histone modifying enzymes. Post-translational modifications of histones, including acetylation and methylation, are involved in transcriptional regulation during normal development. Therefore, we hypothesized that acetylation and/or methylation of histone H3 may underlie sexual differentiation, at least in some regions of the brain. We measured levels of acetylated (H3K9/14Ac) and trimethylated (H3K9Me3) H3 in whole neonatal mouse brains and in three regions: preoptic area + hypothalamus, amygdala and cortex + hippocampus (CTX/HIP). Sex differences in H3K9/14Ac and H3K9Me3 (males > females) were noted in the CTX/HIP on embryonic day 18, the day of birth, and six days later. To determine if T mediates these changes in H3 modifications, pregnant dams received vehicle or T for the final four days of gestation; pup brains were collected at birth. Methylation of H3 was sexually dimorphic despite hormone treatment. In contrast, H3 acetylation in the CTX/HIP of females from T-treated dams rose to levels equivalent to males. Thus, H3 modifications are sexually dimorphic in the developing mouse CTX/HIP and acetylation, but not methylation, is masculinized in females by T in utero. This is the first demonstration that histone modification is associated with neural sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houng-Wei Tsai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, 22908, USA
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