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Taylor AE, Ware MA, Breslow E, Pyle L, Severn C, Nadeau KJ, Chan CL, Kelsey MM, Cree-Green M. 11-Oxyandrogens in Adolescents With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvac037. [PMID: 35611324 PMCID: PMC9123281 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common and diagnosis requires an elevated testosterone. The clinical importance of adrenal 11-oxyandrogens in PCOS is unclear. Objective We sought to determine if 11-oxyandrogens 1) better identify PCOS diagnosis compared to testosterone, 2) predict clinical comorbidities of PCOS, and 3) are altered with an combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) or metformin therapy. Methods Data from 200 adolescent female participants aged 12 to 21 years, most with obesity, enrolled across 6 studies in pediatric endocrinology were included: 70 non-PCOS controls, 115 untreated PCOS, 9 PCOS + obesity treated with COCP, and 6 PCOS + obesity treated with metformin. 11-Hydroxyandrostenedione (11-OHA4), 11-hydroxytestosterone (1-OHT), 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), and testosterone were measured with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Data between 1) untreated PCOS and controls and 2) untreated PCOS and the 2 treatment groups were compared. Results Untreated girls with PCOS had higher 11-OHA4 (P = .003) and 11-OHT (P = .005) compared to controls, but not 11-KT (P = .745). Elevated 11-OHA4 remained statistically significant after controlling for obesity. Testosterone better predicted PCOS status compared to 11-oxyandrogens (receiver operating characteristic curve analysis: 11-OHA4 area under the curve [AUC] = 0.620, 11-OHT AUC = 0.638; testosterone AUC = 0.840). Among untreated PCOS patients, all 3 11-oxyandrogens correlated with hirsutism severity. 11-KT (P = .039) and testosterone (P < .006) were lower in those on COCP treatment compared to untreated PCOS. Metformin treatment had no effect on 11-oxyandrogens, although testosterone was lower (P = .01). Conclusion Although 11-oxyandrogens do not aid in the diagnosis of PCOS, they relate to excess hair growth. COCP treatment may related to 11-KT; however, further work is needed to determine causality, relationship with metabolic outcomes, and the clinical utility of measuring these androgens in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anya E Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Meredith A Ware
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Emily Breslow
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Laura Pyle
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Cameron Severn
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Kristen J Nadeau
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA,Center for Women’s Health Research, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Christine L Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Megan M Kelsey
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA,Center for Women’s Health Research, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Melanie Cree-Green
- Correspondence: Melanie Cree-Green, MD, PhD, Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, PO Box 265, 13123 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Barnard L, du Toit T, Swart AC. Back where it belongs: 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione compels the re-assessment of C11-oxy androgens in steroidogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111189. [PMID: 33539964 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal steroidogenesis has, for decades, been depicted as three biosynthesis pathways -the mineralocorticoid, glucocorticoid and androgen pathways with aldosterone, cortisol and androstenedione as the respective end products. 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione was not included as an adrenal steroid despite the adrenal output of this steroid being twice that of androstenedione. While it is the end of the line for aldosterone and cortisol, as it is in these forms that they exhibit their most potent receptor activities prior to inactivation and conjugation, 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione is another matter entirely. The steroid, which is weakly androgenic, has its own designated pathway yielding 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone and the potent androgens, 11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone, primarily in the periphery. Over the last decade, these C11-oxy C19 steroids have once again come to the fore with the rising number of studies contradicting the generally accepted notion that testosterone and it's 5α-reduced product, dihydrotestosterone, are the principal potent androgens in humans. These C11-oxy androgens have been shown to contribute to the androgen milieu in adrenal disorders associated with androgen excess and in androgen dependant disease progression. In this review, we will highlight these overlooked C11-oxy C19 steroids as well as the C11-oxy C21 steroids and their contribution to congenital adrenal hyperplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome and prostate cancer. The focus is on new findings over the past decade which are slowly but surely reshaping our current outlook on human sex steroid biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barnard
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Amanda C Swart
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa; Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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Stárka L, Dušková M, Vítků J. 11-Keto-testosterone and other androgens of adrenal origin. Physiol Res 2020; 69:S187-S192. [PMID: 33094617 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal glands produce significant amounts of steroid hormones and their metabolites, with various levels of androgenic activities. Until recently, the androgenic potency of these adrenal-derived compounds were not well known, but some recent studies have shown that the production of 11-oxo- and 11beta-hydroxy-derived testosterone and dihydrotestosterone evidently have high androgenic activity. This fact has clinical importance, for instance, in various types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia with androgenization or polycystic ovarian syndrome, and laboratory determinations of these substances could help to better evaluate the total androgen pressure in patients with these disorders. Another area of concern is the treatment of prostate cancer with androgen deprivation, which loses effectiveness after a certain time. The concurrent blocking of the secretion of adrenal C(19)-steroids, whether using corticoids or adrenostatics, could increase the effectiveness of androgen-deprivation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Stárka
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
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4
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Keevil B. Steroid Mass Spectrometry for the Diagnosis of PCOS. Med Sci (Basel) 2019; 7:medsci7070078. [PMID: 31295971 PMCID: PMC6681326 DOI: 10.3390/medsci7070078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/1970] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The most appropriate steroids to measure for the diagnosis of hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are still open to debate but should preferably be measured using a high-quality method such as liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Measurement of testosterone is recommended in all of the current clinical guidelines but other steroids, such as androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), have also been shown to be useful in diagnosing PCOS and may give additional information on metabolic risk. The 11-oxygenated steroids, and in particular 11KT derived mainly from the adrenal gland, are also increasing in prominence and have been shown to be the dominant androgens in this condition. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex syndrome and it is not surprising that each of the clinical phenotypes are associated with different patterns of steroid hormones; it is likely that steroid profiling with LC-MS/MS may be better at identifying hyperandrogensim in each of these phenotypes. Research into PCOS has been hampered by the small sample size of clinical studies previously undertaken and larger studies, preferably using LC-MS/MS profiling of steroids, are needed
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Keevil
- Biochemistry Dept, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Rd, Manchester M23 9LT, UK.
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Rege J, Turcu AF, Else T, Auchus RJ, Rainey WE. Steroid biomarkers in human adrenal disease. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 190:273-280. [PMID: 30707926 PMCID: PMC6707065 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal steroidogenesis is a robust process, involving a series of enzymatic reactions that facilitate conversion of cholesterol into biologically active steroid hormones under the stimulation of angiotensin II, adrenocorticotropic hormone and other regulators. The biosynthesis of mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and adrenal-derived androgens occur in separate adrenocortical zones as a result of the segregated expression of steroidogenic enzymes and cofactors. This mini review provides the principles of adrenal steroidogenesis, including the classic and under-appreciated 11-oxygenated androgen pathways. Several adrenal diseases result from dysregulated adrenal steroid synthesis. Herein, we review growing evidence that adrenal diseases exhibit characteristic modifications from normal adrenal steroid pathways that provide opportunities for the discovery of biomarker steroids that would improve diagnosis and monitoring of adrenal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juilee Rege
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Tobias Else
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - William E Rainey
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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6
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The adrenal gland is considered a source of weak androgens, such as dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and androstenedione. Emerging evidence proposes a set of 11-oxygenated 19-carbon (11oxC19) adrenal-derived steroids as clinically important androgens. Such steroids include 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione, 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone, and 11-ketotestosterone. The present review will discuss the synthesis, androgenic activity, and clinical implications of the 11oxC19 steroids. RECENT FINDINGS The clinical relevance of the 11oxC19 steroids resides in two key characteristics: the synthesis of all 11oxC19 originates predominantly in the adrenal cortex, and 11-ketotestosterone and its 5α-reduced metabolite, 11-ketodihydrotestosterone are potent agonists of the human androgen receptor, similar to the classic androgens testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, respectively. Recent studies have demonstrated higher than normal circulating levels of 11oxC19 steroids in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency and in polycystic ovary syndrome. The 11oxC19 steroids are also thought to contribute to castration-resistant prostate cancer progression. In addition, the 11oxC19 steroids might have clinical implications in adrenarche and postmenopausal women. SUMMARY Future prospective studies are needed to establish the clinical utility of the 11oxC19 steroids for individualized patient care. Preliminary data suggest that these biomarkers hold promise to improve the evaluation and management of androgen excess disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adina F Turcu
- aDivision of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes bDepartment of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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7
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O’Reilly MW, Kempegowda P, Jenkinson C, Taylor AE, Quanson JL, Storbeck KH, Arlt W. 11-Oxygenated C19 Steroids Are the Predominant Androgens in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:840-848. [PMID: 27901631 PMCID: PMC5460696 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-3285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Androgen excess is a defining feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but the exact origin of hyperandrogenemia remains a matter of debate. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the 11-oxygenated C19 steroid pathway to androgen metabolism in humans. In this study, we analyzed the contribution of 11-oxygenated androgens to androgen excess in women with PCOS. METHODS One hundred fourteen women with PCOS and 49 healthy control subjects underwent measurement of serum androgens by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Twenty-four-hour urinary androgen excretion was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fasting plasma insulin and glucose were measured for homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance. Baseline demographic data, including body mass index, were recorded. RESULTS As expected, serum concentrations of the classic androgens testosterone (P < 0.001), androstenedione (P < 0.001), and dehydroepiandrosterone (P < 0.01) were significantly increased in PCOS. Mirroring this, serum 11-oxygenated androgens 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione, 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone, and 11-ketotestosterone were significantly higher in PCOS than in control subjects, as was the urinary 11-oxygenated androgen metabolite 11β-hydroxyandrosterone. The proportionate contribution of 11-oxygenated to total serum androgens was significantly higher in patients with PCOS compared with control subjects [53.0% (interquartile range, 48.7 to 60.3) vs 44.0% (interquartile range, 32.9 to 54.9); P < 0.0001]. Obese (n = 51) and nonobese (n = 63) patients with PCOS had significantly increased 11-oxygenated androgens. Serum 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione and 11-ketoandrostenedione correlated significantly with markers of insulin resistance. CONCLUSIONS We show that 11-oxygenated androgens represent the majority of circulating androgens in women with PCOS, with close correlation to markers of metabolic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W. O’Reilly
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research,
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism,
Birmingham Health Partners, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, United Kingdom;
| | - Punith Kempegowda
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research,
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism,
Birmingham Health Partners, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, United Kingdom;
| | - Carl Jenkinson
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research,
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism,
Birmingham Health Partners, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, United Kingdom;
| | - Angela E. Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research,
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism,
Birmingham Health Partners, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, United Kingdom;
| | - Jonathan L. Quanson
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University,
Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa; and
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University,
Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa; and
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research,
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism,
Birmingham Health Partners, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, United Kingdom;
- National Institute of Health Research (NIHR)
Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit, University Hospital Birmingham, NHS
Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2GW, United Kingdom
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8
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Pretorius E, Arlt W, Storbeck KH. A new dawn for androgens: Novel lessons from 11-oxygenated C19 steroids. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 441:76-85. [PMID: 27519632 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The abundant adrenal C19 steroid 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4) has been written off as a dead-end product of adrenal steroidogenesis. However, recent evidence has demonstrated that 11OHA4 is the precursor to the potent androgenic 11-oxygenated steroids, 11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone, that bind and activate the human androgen receptor similarly to testosterone and DHT. The significance of this discovery becomes apparent when considering androgen dependent diseases such as castration resistant prostate cancer and diseases associated with androgen excess, e.g. congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndrome. In this review we describe the production and metabolism of 11-oxygenated steroids. We subsequently discuss their androgenic activity and highlight the putative role of these androgens in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elzette Pretorius
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.
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9
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Jonas KC, Chandras C, Abayasekara DRE, Michael AE. Role for prostaglandins in the regulation of type 1 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in human granulosa-lutein cells. Endocrinology 2006; 147:5865-72. [PMID: 16959838 DOI: 10.1210/en.2006-0723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD) enzymes regulate glucocorticoid availability in target tissues. 11betaHSD1 is the predominant isoenzyme expressed and active in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. This study investigated the effects of pharmacological inhibitors of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis on 11betaHSD1 activities and expression in hGL cells. The consequences for 11betaHSD1 of increasing exposure of hGL cells to PGs, either by treatment with exogenous PGs or by challenging cells with IL-1beta, were also assessed. Suppression of basal PG synthesis using four different inhibitors of PG H synthase enzymes [indomethacin, niflumic acid, meclofenamic acid (MA) and N-(2-cyclohexyloxy-4-nitorophenyl) methane sulfonamide (NS-398)] each resulted in significant decreases in both cortisol oxidation and cortisone reduction. Both activities of 11betaHSD1 were suppressed by up to 64+/-6% (P<0.05). Over 4 and 24 h, neither MA nor NS-398 affected the expression of 11betaHSD1 protein, suggesting enzyme regulation by PGs at the posttranslational level. When cells were cotreated for 4 h with PGHS inhibitors plus 30 nm PGD2, PGF2alpha, or PGE2, each PG overcame the suppression of cortisol oxidation by indomethacin or MA. Treatment of hGL cells with IL-1beta increased the concentrations of both PGE2 and PGF2alpha, accompanied by a 70+/-25% increase in net cortisol oxidation. All three responses to IL-1beta were abolished when cells were cotreated with MA. These findings suggest a role for PGs in the posttranslational regulation of 11betaHSD1 activities in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim C Jonas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London, UK.
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Abstract
Previous studies have reported both direct and indirect evidence correlating the probability of conception by IVF-embryo transfer with follicular metabolism of glucocorticoids by the enzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 betaHSD). To resolve disputes regarding the predictive value of measures of cortisol-cortisone interconversion, this study has focused on compounds present in follicular fluid that can regulate enzyme activities within the ovary. Follicular fluid contains both hydrophilic compounds that can stimulate and hydrophobic components that can inhibit the oxidation of cortisol to cortisone by 11 betaHSD. These latest data indicate that: (i) cortisol:cortisone ratios in follicular fluid increase in proportion to the follicular content of the hydrophobic inhibitors of 11 betaHSD (r2 = 0.076; P < 0.01); (ii) the developmental potential of the oocyte and embryo, in terms of the probability of conception subsequent to embryo transfer, is positively correlated with follicular cortisol:cortisone ratios (12.9 +/- 0.3 in conception cycles versus 8.5 +/- 0.2 in non-conception cycles, P < 0.0001; odds ratio = 3364.48, P < 0.001); (iii) conception by IVF-embryo transfer is associated with increased concentrations of the ovarian inhibitors of 11 betaHSD (odds ratio = 4.54, P < 0.01) but with decreased concentrations of the ovarian stimuli of 11 betaHSD (odds ratio = 0.18, P < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony E Michael
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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11
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Huerta R, Dewailly D, Decanter C, Knochenhauer ES, Boots LR, Azziz R. 11beta-hydroxyandrostenedione and delta5-androstenediol as markers of adrenal androgen production in patients with 21-hydroxylase-deficient nonclassic adrenal hyperplasia. Fertil Steril 1999; 72:996-1000. [PMID: 10593370 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(99)00402-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the sensitivity of 11beta-hydroxyandrostenedione (11-OHA4) and delta5-androstenediol (ADIOL) as markers of excessive adrenal androgen production. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Academic medical centers. PATIENT(S) Thirteen women with untreated 21-hydroxylase-deficient nonclassic adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) and 18 healthy, eumenorrheic, nonhirsute controls matched for age and body mass index. INTERVENTION(S) All subjects were studied before and after acute adrenal stimulation with 0.25 mg of IV ACTH-(1-24). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Basal levels of total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, DHEAS, and free testosterone were measured. Levels of androstenedione (A4), DHEA, 11-OHA4, and ADIOL were determined before (Steroid0) and 60 minutes after (Steroid60) acute ACTH-(1-24) stimulation. RESULT(S) Patients with NCAH had higher median basal levels of DHEAS and total and free testosterone than controls. Patients with NCAH had higher median A4(0), A460, DHEA(0), DHEA60, 11-OHA4(0), ADIOL0, and ADIOL60 levels but similar 11-OHA4(60) levels compared with controls. Among patients with NCAH, 30%, 54%, 15%, and 85% had 11-OHA4(0), ADIOL0, 11-OHA4(60), and ADIOL(60) levels, respectively, above the 95th percentile of controls. CONCLUSION(S) Overall, serum levels of 11-OHA4 did not appear to be a very sensitive marker of excessive adrenal androgen production, at least in patients with NCAH. Although ACTH-stimulated ADIOL levels were elevated in 85% of the patients studied, they did not appear to have any advantage over the measurement of A4 or DHEA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Huerta
- Instituto de Investigaciones Medicas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Leon, Mexico
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12
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Michael AE, Collins TD, Norgate DP, Gregory L, Wood PJ, Cooke BA. Relationship between ovarian cortisol:cortisone ratios and the clinical outcome of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 1999; 51:535-40. [PMID: 10594513 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2265.1999.00892.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previously, we have reported an association between low levels of intraovarian cortisol metabolism, mediated by 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD), and the establishment of pregnancies by in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the clinical outcome of IVF-ET and the intraovarian concentrations of cortisol and cortisone and the cortisol:cortisone ratios in random samples of ovarian follicular fluid (FF). DESIGN Retrospective, double-blind correlation analyses. PATIENTS FF samples (n = 41) were obtained from 23 women undergoing gonadotrophin-stimulated IVF-ET cycles at the Cardiff Assisted Reproduction Unit. MEASUREMENTS Clinical pregnancy was confirmed by ultrasonography. Intrafollicular steroid concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassays. RESULTS Concentrations of both cortisol and cortisone were significantly lower in FF samples obtained from 6 patients that conceived than in samples obtained from 17 patients that did not achieve pregnancy (cortisol (mean +/- SEM) = 304 +/- 29 vs. 407 +/- 26 nmol/l, P = 0. 0411; cortisone = 32 +/- 3 vs. 65 +/- 7 nmol/l, P = 0.0002). Intrafollicular cortisol:cortisone ratios were significantly higher in samples from conception cycles than in those samples obtained from nonconception cycles (9.7 +/- 0.7 vs. 6.9 +/- 0.5, respectively, P = 0.0060). Whereas 5 of 10 women with intrafollicular cortisol:cortisone ratios greater than the outcome-independent mean of 7.7 became pregnant, only 1 of the 13 patients with intrafollicular cortisol:cortisone ratios < 7.7 conceived (chi2 = 5. 247, P = 0.0220). CONCLUSIONS Concentrations of both cortisol and cortisone were significantly lower in FF samples obtained from patients that conceived by IVF-ET than in those obtained from nonconception cycles. Conception by gonadotrophin-stimulated IVF-ET was associated with an elevated intrafollicular ratio of cortisol:cortisone, consistent with a low level of intraovarian cortisol oxidation by 11betaHSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Michael
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Royal Free and University College Medical School of University College London, London, UK.
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13
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Ricketts ML, Verhaeg JM, Bujalska I, Howie AJ, Rainey WE, Stewart PM. Immunohistochemical localization of type 1 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in human tissues. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1998; 83:1325-35. [PMID: 9543163 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.83.4.4706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Two isozymes of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD) catalyze the interconversion of hormonally active cortisol to inactive cortisone. Activity and messenger ribonucleic acid studies indicate that type 1 11betaHSD (11betaHSD1) is expressed in glucocorticoid target tissues such as liver, gonad, and cerebellum, where it regulates the exposure of cortisol to glucocorticoid receptors. To further understand the role of 11betaHSD1 in human tissues, we have studied the localization of this isozyme using an antibody raised in sheep against amino acids 19-33 of human 11betaHSD1. Western blot analyses indicated that the immunopurified antibody recognized a band of approximately 34 kDa in human liver and decidua. Immunoperoxidase studies on liver, adrenal, ovary, decidua, and adipose tissue indicated positive cytoplasmic staining for 11betaHSD1. 11BetaHSD1 immunoreactivity was observed more intensely around the hepatic central vein, with no staining around the portal vein, hepatic artery, or bile ducts. No staining for 11betaHSD1 was observed in the adrenal medulla, but 11betaHSD1-immunoreactive protein was observed in all three zones of the adrenal cortex, with the most intense staining in the zona reticularis > zona glomerulosa > zona fasciculata. In the human ovary, immunoreactivity was observed in the developing oocyte and the luteinized granulosa cells of the corpus luteum. No staining was observed in granulosa cells, thecal cells, or ovarian stroma, which contrasted with the marked expression of 11betaHSD2 in the granulosa cell layer. Sections of human decidua showed high expression of 11betaHSD1 in decidual cells. In omental adipose tissue, 11betaHSD1 immunoreactivity was observed in both stromal and adipocyte cells. Immunohistochemical localization of 11betaHSD1 in human liver, adrenal, ovary, decidua, and adipose tissue using this novel antiserum provides us with a tool to investigate the role of this isozyme in modulating glucocorticoid hormone action within these tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Ricketts
- Department of Medicine, University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, United Kingdom
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Michael AE, Evagelatou M, Norgate DP, Clarke RJ, Antoniw JW, Stedman BA, Brennan A, Welsby R, Bujalska I, Stewart PM, Cooke BA. Isoforms of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 1997; 132:43-52. [PMID: 9324045 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(97)00118-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, two isoforms of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD) have been characterized: a low affinity, NADP+-dependent isoform (11betaHSD1) and a high affinity, NAD+-dependent isoform which metabolizes dexamethasone and is inhibited by cortisone (11betaHSD2). Having previously reported a relationship between ovarian 11betaHSD activities and conception in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF-ET), the objective of the present study was to identify which isoforms of 11betaHSD metabolize glucocorticoids in cultures of human granulosa-lutein cells. In both intact cells and cell homogenates, two distinct 11betaHSD activities were identified with differing affinities for cortisol (Km = 490 nM and 2.6 microM). Even at low concentrations, cortisol oxidation was preferentially supported by NADP+ and was independent of NAD+. Although inhibited by the hemisuccinate ester of glycyrrhetinic acid, carbenoxolone, the predominant 11betaHSD activity in intact cells was resistant to end-product inhibition. Intact cells were also able to reduce [3H]cortisone (Km = 190 nM) but did not metabolize [3H]dexamethasone. 11BetaHSD1 mRNA was expressed in 23 of 28 cell cultures whereas 11betaHSD2 mRNA was not expressed in any of the 22 independent cultures studied by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We conclude that human granulosa-lutein cells express both type 11betaHSD and a novel isoform of this enzyme. While the low affinity 11beta-dehydrogenase and 11-ketosteroid reductase activities exhibit properties consistent with 11betaHSD1, the high affinity 11beta-dehydrogenase differs from 11betaHSD2 in that it is NADP+-dependent, does not metabolize dexamethasone and is resistant to end-product inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Michael
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, University of London, UK
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Michael AE, Cooke BA. A working hypothesis for the regulation of steroidogenesis and germ cell development in the gonads by glucocorticoids and 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta HSD). Mol Cell Endocrinol 1994; 100:55-63. [PMID: 8056159 DOI: 10.1016/0303-7207(94)90279-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between glucocorticoid secretion from the adrenal gland and gonadal function has previously been attributed to central inhibition by the adrenal steroids of pituitary gonadotropin output. This review focuses on the direct actions of glucocorticoids within the gonads, including positive effects on germ cell maturation and both positive and negative effects on the stimulation of gonadal steroidogenesis by LH and FSH. In addition, we address the role in the gonads of 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta HSD), which interconverts the glucocorticoids with their inactive 11-ketosteroid derivatives. To date, two isoforms of 11 beta HSD have been described. 11 beta HSD1, purified and cloned from the liver, has a relatively low affinity for glucocorticoids and acts instead as an 11-oxoreductase, whereas the high affinity 11 beta HSD2, first identified in the kidney, acts as an efficient 11 beta-dehydrogenase to inactivate physiological concentrations of glucocorticoid. We propose that in the gonads, 11 beta HSD1 promotes the positive effects of glucocorticoids on germ cell maturation (by increasing the local concentration of active glucocorticoids), whereas a high affinity 11 beta-dehydrogenase activity, consistent with that of 11 beta HSD2, inactivates glucocorticoids and so protects luteal cells from the inhibitory effects of these steroids during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Michael
- Department of Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, London, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Hillier
- Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, University of Edinburgh Centre for Reproductive Biology, Scotland
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