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Li Y, Yu X, Shi J, Zhao J, Li L. The role of aryl hydrocarbon receptors in nutrient metabolism and immune regulation at the maternal-fetal interface. Placenta 2024; 154:9-17. [PMID: 38830294 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.05.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The maternal-fetal interface is composed of the placenta, which is affiliated with the fetus, and the maternal decidua. During pregnancy, the placenta is mainly responsible for nutrient transport and immune tolerance maintenance, which plays a key role in fetal growth and development and pregnancy maintenance. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that exists in various cell types at the maternal-fetal interface and is involved in multiple cellular processes. Recent studies have highlighted the role of AhR in regulating various physiological processes, including glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as tryptophan metabolism and immune responses, within non-pregnant tissues. This review shifts focus towards understanding how AhR modulation impacts metabolism and immune regulation at the maternal-fetal interface. This may implicate the development of pregnancy-related complications and the potential target of the AhR pathway for therapeutic strategies against poor pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China; The Laboratory of Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center (Institute of Translational Medicine), Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences) of China, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Xiaojun Yu
- School of Public Health Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Jing Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100083, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
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Dutta S, Banu SK, Arosh JA. Endocrine disruptors and endometriosis. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 115:56-73. [PMID: 36436816 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a hormone-dependent inflammatory gynecological disease of reproductive-age women. It is clinically and pathologically characterized by the presence of functional endometrium as heterogeneous lesions outside the uterine cavity. The two major symptoms are chronic pelvic pain and infertility, which profoundly affect women's reproductive health and quality of life. This significant individual and public health concerns underscore the importance of understanding the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous agents that interfere with the synthesis, secretion, transport, signaling, or metabolism of hormones responsible for homeostasis, reproduction, and developmental processes. Endometriosis has been potentially linked to exposure to EDCs. In this review, based on the robust literature search, we have selected four endocrine disruptors (i) polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)s (ii) dioxins (TCDD) (iii) bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogs and (iv) phthalates to elucidate their critical role in the etiopathogenesis of endometriosis. The epidemiological and experimental data discussed in this review indicate that these four EDCs activate multiple intracellular signaling pathways associated with proinflammation, estrogen, progesterone, prostaglandins, cell survival, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and growth of endometriosis. The available information strongly indicates that environmental exposure to EDCs such as PCBs, dioxins, BPA, and phthalates individually or collectively contribute to the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Further understanding of the molecular mechanisms of how these EDCs establish endometriosis and therapeutic strategies to mitigate the effects of these EDCs in the pathogenesis of endometriosis are timely needed. Moreover, understanding the interactive roles of these EDCs in the pathogenesis of endometriosis will help regulate the exposure to these EDCs in reproductive age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Dutta
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 77843 College Station, TX, USA
| | - Sakhila K Banu
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 77843 College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Joe A Arosh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 77843 College Station, TX, USA.
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Ghazi Eid B, Hanafy A, Hasan A, Neamatalla T. Zingerone Enhances Fertility Markers in Both Male and Female Rats and Increases Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Expression. INT J PHARMACOL 2020. [DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2020.267.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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4
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Ghazi Eid B, Hanafy A, Hasan A. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Is Expressed in the Prostate Gland of Lean and Obese Rats. INT J PHARMACOL 2018. [DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2018.992.1000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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5
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Fan H, Su X, Yang B, Zhao A. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor and unexplained miscarriage. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2017; 43:1029-1036. [PMID: 28503784 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to carry out a preliminary investigation of the expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in decidua and villus and the relationship between AhR and unexplained miscarriage. METHODS The expression of AhR mRNA and protein from decidua and villus were measured using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blot and immunohistochemistry in 34 patients with unexplained miscarriage (miscarriage group) and 38 women with normal early pregnancy (control group). RESULTS The AhR mRNA and protein expression was increased significantly in the villus in both groups compared with decidua (P < 0.05, P < 0.05). In decidua, AhR mRNA and protein expression in the miscarriage group was increased significantly compared with the control group (P < 0.05, P < 0.05). In villus, AhR mRNA and protein expression in the miscarriage group was increased significantly compared with the control group (P < 0.05, P < 0.05). AhR is expressed mostly in the cytoplasm of syncytiotrophoblasts in villus, and also in the cytoplasm of decidual cells. CONCLUSIONS AhR was expressed more in the villus than in the decidua, and the upregulation of AhR mRNA and protein expression is associated with the pathogenesis of unexplained miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoling Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Binlie Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Aimin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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6
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Mariuzzi L, Domenis R, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Londero AP, Bulfoni M, Candotti V, Zanello A, Ballico M, Mimmi MC, Calcagno A, Marchesoni D, Di Loreto C, Beltrami AP, Cesselli D, Gri G. Functional expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor on mast cells populating human endometriotic tissues. J Transl Med 2016; 96:959-971. [PMID: 27348627 PMCID: PMC5008463 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2016.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue outside the uterus. A diffuse infiltration of mast cells (MCs) is observed throughout endometriotic lesions, but little is known about how these cells contribute to the network of molecules that modulate the growth of ectopic endometrial implants and promote endometriosis-associated inflammation. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a transcription factor known to respond to environmental toxins and endogenous compounds, is present in MCs. In response to AhR activation, MCs produce IL-17 and reactive oxygen species, highlighting the potential impact of AhR ligands on inflammation via MCs. Here, we investigated the possibility that endometrial MCs promote an inflammatory microenvironment by sensing AhR ligands, thus sustaining endometriosis development. Using human endometriotic tissue (ET) samples, we performed the following experiments: (i) examined the cytokine expression profile; (ii) counted AhR-expressing MCs; (iii) verified the phenotype of AhR-expressing MCs to establish whether MCs have a tolerogenic (IL-10-positive) or inflammatory (IL-17-positive) phenotype; (iv) measured the presence of AhR ligands (tryptophan-derived kynurenine) and tryptophan-metabolizing enzymes (indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1)); (v) treated ET organ cultures with an AhR antagonist in vitro to measure changes in the cytokine milieu; and (vi) measured the growth of endometrial stromal cells cultured with AhR-activated MC-conditioned medium. We found that ET tissue was conducive to cytokine production, orchestrating chronic inflammation and a population of AhR-expressing MCs that are both IL-17 and IL-10-positive. ET was rich in IDO1 and the AhR-ligand kynurenine compared with control tissue, possibly promoting MC activation through AhR. ET was susceptible to treatment with an AhR antagonist, and endometrial stromal cell growth was improved in the presence of soluble factors released by MCs on AhR activation. These results suggest a new mechanistic role of MCs in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mariuzzi
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Rossana Domenis
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P Londero
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Michela Bulfoni
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Veronica Candotti
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Andrea Zanello
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ballico
- Section of Applied Physics, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Maria C Mimmi
- Section of Applied Physics, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Angelo Calcagno
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Diego Marchesoni
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Carla Di Loreto
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Antonio P Beltrami
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giorgia Gri
- Section of Surgical Pathology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S.Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Leyendecker G, Wildt L. A new concept of endometriosis and adenomyosis: tissue injury and repair (TIAR). Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2015; 5:125-42. [PMID: 25961248 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci.2011.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Pelvic endometriosis, deeply infiltrating endometriosis and uterine adenomyosis share a common pathophysiology and may be integrated into the physiological mechanism and new nosological concept of 'tissue injury and repair' (TIAR) and may, in this context, just represent the extreme of a basically physiological, estrogen-related mechanism that is pathologically exaggerated in an extremely estrogen-sensitive reproductive organ. The acronym TIAR describes a fundamental and apparently ubiquitous biological system that becomes operative in mesenchymal tissues following tissue injury and, upon activation, results in the local production of estradiol. Endometriosis and adenomyosis are caused by trauma. In the spontaneously developing disease, chronic uterine peristaltic activity or phases of hyperperistalsis induce, at the endometrial-myometrial interface near the fundo-cornual raphe, microtraumatisations, with activation of the TIAR mechanism. With ongoing traumatisations, such sites of inflammation might accumulate and the increasingly produced estrogens interfere in a paracrine fashion with ovarian control over uterine peristaltic activity, resulting in permanent hyperperistalsis and a self-perpetuation of the disease process. Overt autotraumatisation of the uterus with dislocation of fragments of basal endometrium into the peritoneal cavity and infiltration of basal endometrium into the depth of the myometrial wall ensues. In most cases of endometriosis/adenomyosis a causal event early in the reproductive period of life must be postulated, rapidly leading to archimetral hyperestrogenism and uterine hyperperistalsis. In late premenopausal adenomyosis such an event might not have occurred. However, as indicated by the high prevalence of the disease, it appears to be unavoidable that, with time, chronic normoperistalsis throughout the reproductive period of life accumulates to the same extent of microtraumatisation. With activation of the TIAR mechanism followed by chronic inflammation and infiltrative growth, endometriosis/adenomyosis of the younger woman and premenopausal adenomyosis share in principal the same pathophysiology.
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Rataj F, Möller FJ, Jähne M, Hönscheid P, Zierau O, Vollmer G, Kretzschmar G. Progesterone, as well as 17β-estradiol, is important for regulating AHR battery homoeostasis in the rat uterus. Arch Toxicol 2014; 89:393-404. [PMID: 24777823 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-014-1261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Several studies indicate that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which plays an important role in mediating the toxicity of many industrial chemicals, plays an important role in the physiology of female reproductive tract organs. This makes it likely that the AHR and additional components of the AHR signalling pathway are under the control of female sex steroids. In a previous study, we could already demonstrate the regulation of many members of the AHR battery by 17β-estradiol (E2) in the uterus of rats. In this study, we addressed the potential role of progesterone (P4) in this context. In a comparative approach using ovariectomized rats which were treated for 3 days with either vehicle control, E2, progesterone (P4) or the combination of both hormones in addition to sham-operated animals, we could demonstrate that in addition to E2, P4 is also an important factor in regulating AHR signalling in the rat uterus. P4 has effects similar to E2 on uterine Ahr, Arnt and Arnt2 mRNA levels, resulting in a downregulation of these genes, while the E2-mediated downregulation of key AHR response genes Cyp1a1, Gsta2 and Ugt1 is completely antagonized by P4. As with E2, P4 leads to an increase in uterine AHR levels, especially in the endometrial epithelium despite the decrease in corresponding mRNA levels. This indicates a complex gene-specific regulatory network involving E2, P4 and possibly AHR itself to maintain all components of the AHR signalling cascade at the required levels during all stages of the oestrous cycle and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Rataj
- Molecular Cell Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute for Zoology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany
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9
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Li D, Takao T, Tsunematsu R, Morokuma S, Fukushima K, Kobayashi H, Saito T, Furue M, Wake N, Asanoma K. Inhibition of AHR transcription by NF1C is affected by a single-nucleotide polymorphism, and is involved in suppression of human uterine endometrial cancer. Oncogene 2012. [PMID: 23208493 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Involvement of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in carcinogenesis has been suggested in many studies. Upregulation of AHR has been reported in some cancer species, and an association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of AHR and cancer risk or cancer development has also been reported. This evidence suggests the involvement of some specific SNPs in AHR transcriptional regulation in the process of carcinogenesis or cancer development, but there have been no studies to elucidate the mechanism involved. In this study, we identified the transcription factor Nuclear Factor 1-C (NF1C) as a candidate to regulate AHR transcription in a polymorphism-dependent manner. SNP rs10249788 was included in a consensus binding site for NF1C. Our results suggested that NF1C preferred the C allele to the T allele at rs10249788 for binding. Forced expression of NF1C suppressed the activity of the AHR promoter with C at rs10249788 stronger than that with T. Moreover, expression analysis of human uterine endometrial cancer (HEC) specimens showed greater upregulation of AHR and downregulation of NF1C than those of normal endometrium specimens. Sequence analysis showed HEC patients at advanced stages tended to possess T/T alleles more frequently than healthy women. We also demonstrated that NF1C suppressed proliferation, motility and invasion of HEC cells. This function was at least partially mediated by AHR. This study is the first to report that a polymorphism on the AHR regulatory region affected transcriptional regulation of the AHR gene in vitro. Because NF1C is a tumor suppressor, our new insights into AHR deregulation and its polymorphisms could reveal novel mechanisms of genetic susceptibility to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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10
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Regulation of uterine AHR battery gene expression by 17β-Estradiol is predominantly mediated by estrogen receptor α. Arch Toxicol 2012; 86:1603-12. [PMID: 22659940 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-012-0870-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is known to mediate the cellular response to numerous xenobiotics including dioxin. Surprisingly AHR knockout mice provide evidence for the involvement of the AHR signalling cascade in estrogen regulated physiological functions of the female reproductive system. Several studies already aimed to investigate the impact of the AHR mediated xenobiotic response pathway on estrogen receptor (ER) signalling, whereas on contrary availability of data describing the effect of 17β-Estradiol (E2) on the AHR signalling cascade is rather limited. In this study we observed an inhibitory effect of E2 treatment on uterine Ahr, Arnt, Arnt2, Ahrr, Cyp1a1, Ugt1 and Nfe2l2 gene expression in ovariectomized Wistar rats, whereas Cyp1b1, Nqo1 and Gsta2 displayed an increased transcription. The usage of the ER selective agonists, 16α-LE(2) (ERα selective) and 8β-VE(2) (ERβ selective), enabled us to distinguish between ER subtype specific responses. On mRNA level the observed changes in gene expression were mainly mediated by ERα except for the expression of Nqo1. In most cases the activation of ERβ caused effects opposite to the ones observed following activation of ERα. Despite the significant changes in AHR mRNA levels immunohistochemical staining uterine tissue section did not reveal changes of the AHR protein level. Taken together our results validate, support and extend the hypothesis of uterine crosstalk between AHR and ER signalling pathways. Furthermore they give an insight into how the AHR and its related genes may participate in E2 dependent uterine physiological processes and provide another potential mechanism of action for xenoestrogens.
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11
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Cadmium modulates expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor-associated genes in rat uterus by interaction with the estrogen receptor. Arch Toxicol 2011; 86:591-601. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-011-0787-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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12
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Indolylfuran, a potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist from sauerkraut, interacts with the oestrogen pathway. Food Chem 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2011.02.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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13
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Jablonska O, Piasecka J, Ostrowska M, Sobocinska N, Wasowska B, Wasowka B, Ciereszko RE. The expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in reproductive and neuroendocrine tissues during the estrous cycle in the pig. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:221-8. [PMID: 21715111 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been recognized as a mediator of xenobiotic-induced toxicity. In addition, it was demonstrated that the AhR is able to influence the regulation of reproductive processes in females. The aim of this study was to examine AhR mRNA (real-time PCR) and protein (Western-blot) expression in ovarian follicles and stroma, corpora lutea (CL), oviducts, endometrium, myometrium as well as in medial basal hypothalami (MBH), and anterior (AP) and posterior (PP) pituitaries harvested during the follicular (days 17-19) and luteal (days 8-10) phase of the porcine estrous cycle. The AhR transcript and protein were found in all structures collected during both phases. AhR mRNA expression tended (p=0.06) to be higher in the CL than in follicles. The AhR protein expression in ovarian stroma was higher (p≤0.01) during the follicular than in the luteal phase. Endometrial expression of AhR mRNA was higher (p≤0.01), while AhR protein was lower (p≤0.01) during the follicular phase in comparison to the luteal phase. Within neuroendocrine tissues, AhR mRNA and protein content in hypothalamus were relatively low and did not differ (p>0.05) between phases. In contrast, higher AhR mRNA expression in AP (p≤0.001) and protein expression in PP (p≤0.01) were found during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. Differences in AhR expression observed in reproductive and neuroendocrine tissues during the follicular and luteal phase of the estrous cycle indicate the involvement of AhR in the regulation of reproductive function in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Jablonska
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowski 1A, Olsztyn, Poland
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Kalmes M, Hennen J, Clemens J, Blömeke B. Impact of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) knockdown on cell cycle progression in human HaCaT keratinocytes. Biol Chem 2011; 392:643-51. [PMID: 21627536 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2011.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract While activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) by exogenous ligands is well investigated, its physiological function is less understood. By extending research in AhR biology, evidence appeared that the receptor generally plays an important role in cell physiology. In keratinocytes, little is known about endogenous functions of the AhR. In order to expand this knowledge, we analyzed the impact of AhR knockdown on cell cycle progression in HaCaT cells and showed that proliferation of siAhR HaCaT cells was significantly decreased. In line with that result, western blot analysis revealed that protein level of the cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor p27(KIP1) was increased, whereas protein level of the cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) 2 was reduced. CDK4 and CDK6 protein levels remained unchanged, whereas protein level of the retinoblastoma protein (pRB) was reduced. By measuring ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity we showed that endogenous cytochrome P450 1 (CYP1), especially CYP1A1 is required for normal cell cycle in HaCaT cells, as well. To the best of our knowledge, we provide evidence for the first time in human skin cells, that in the absence of exogenous ligands, the AhR promotes cell cycle progression in HaCaT cells and one can speculate that this is the physiological function of this receptor in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Kalmes
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of Trier, Germany
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15
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Willing C, Peich M, Danescu A, Kehlen A, Fowler PA, Hombach-Klonisch S. Estrogen-independent actions of environmentally relevant AhR-agonists in human endometrial epithelial cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 17:115-26. [PMID: 20876610 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a cyclically regenerating organ under the influence of ovarian steroid hormones. Disturbances in this highly coordinated regulation of endometrial proliferation and differentiation may result in infertility and diseases such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Environmental toxins belonging to the group of polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are lipophilic xenobiotics, which accumulate in biological systems. PAHs have been implicated in the etiology of uterine pathologies, including infertility, endometriosis and endometrial cancer. However, suitable cellular models of the endometrium are lacking and the molecular mechanism of PAH action in the endometrium is not fully understood. In this study, we have characterized a previously established immortalized human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) endometrial epithelial cell (hTERT-EEC) model as a responsive in vitro cell model to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of selected environmentally relevant PAH in human EECs. We show that dioxin-type PAHs activate the endogenous arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathway in hTERT-EEC in a time-, concentration- and congener-specific manner and that the induction of AhR target genes is modulated by estrogen. Strikingly, AhR activation did not interfere with estrogenic actions in these EECs. Independent of their ability to bind to AhR, the PAHs investigated here increased cell migration by hTERT-EEC. Furthermore, we have identified several candidates by proteomic analysis, which are involved in heat shock responses and protein modification and turnover. Our data suggest that AhR-activating environmental pollutants directly alter endometrial cell stress responses and metabolism independent of estrogenic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Willing
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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Dechanet C, Anahory T, Mathieu Daude JC, Quantin X, Reyftmann L, Hamamah S, Hedon B, Dechaud H. Effects of cigarette smoking on reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2010; 17:76-95. [PMID: 20685716 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmq033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cigarette smoking is associated with lower fecundity rates, adverse reproductive outcomes and a higher risk of IVF failures. Over the last few decades, prevalence of smoking among women of reproductive age has increased. This review focuses on current knowledge of the potential effects of smoke toxicants on all reproductive stages and the consequences of smoke exposure on reproductive functions. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature on the impact of cigarette smoking and smoke constituents on the different stages of reproductive function, including epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies. We attempted to create hypotheses and find explanations for the deleterious effects of cigarette smoke observed in experimental studies. RESULTS Cigarette smoke contains several thousand components (e.g. nicotine, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and cadmium) with diverse effects. Each stage of reproductive function, folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, embryo transport, endometrial receptivity, endometrial angiogenesis, uterine blood flow and uterine myometrium is a target for cigarette smoke components. The effects of cigarette smoke are dose-dependent and are influenced by the presence of other toxic substances and hormonal status. Individual sensitivity, dose, time and type of exposure also play a role in the impact of smoke constituents on human fertility. CONCLUSIONS All stages of reproductive functions are targets of cigarette smoke toxicants. Further studies are necessary to better understand the deleterious effects of cigarette smoke compounds on the reproductive system in order to improve health care, help to reduce cigarette smoking and provide a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dechanet
- Department of Medicine and Biology of Reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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17
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Abstract
A recent survey in the United States identified 287 different chemicals in human cord blood, demonstrating the significant exposure of women and their children to a wide array of environmental toxicants. While reducing contamination and exposure should be an international priority, it is equally appropriate to develop an understanding of the health consequences of increasing world-wide industrialization. Endometriosis, a disease of the female reproductive tract, has emerged as a disease potentially related to environmental exposures. While a number of population-based studies have suggested that a woman's exposure to dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls may affect her risk of developing this disease, other studies have failed to find such evidence. In the current manuscript, we will review the limited data regarding polychlorinated biphenyl congeners and endometriosis with a focus on dioxin-like toxicants. We will also discuss the potential importance of early life exposures to these toxicants on the subsequent development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232-2519, USA
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18
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Kretzschmar G, Papke A, Zierau O, Möller FJ, Medjakovic S, Jungbauer A, Vollmer G. Estradiol regulates aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression in the rat uterus. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 321:253-7. [PMID: 20176079 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Revised: 02/03/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Several authors have investigated the role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in the reproductive tract, but there are no data available whether 17beta-estradiol (E2) regulates expression of members of the AHR pathway in the uterus. We therefore examined the mRNA expression of Ahr as well as the genes of the AHR dimerization partners ARNT1 and ARNT2 and the AHR regulated genes Cyp1a1 and Gsta2 in the uterus of ovariectomized rats after administration of E2 at two different doses. The data show that Ahr mRNA expression is downregulated while AHR protein amounts increased in all uterine tissue compartments. In addition we observed a downregulation of Arnt1, Arnt2 and Cyp1a1 while Gsta2 mRNA expression is upregulated by E2 in a dose-dependent manner. These results show that members of the AHR pathway are regulated by E2 in the uterus. AHR may therefore play an important role in the mediation of uterine estrogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Kretzschmar
- Molecular Cell Physiology & Endocrinology, Institute for Zoology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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19
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Hernández-Ochoa I, Karman BN, Flaws JA. The role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the female reproductive system. Biochem Pharmacol 2009; 77:547-59. [PMID: 18977336 PMCID: PMC2657805 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2008.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2008] [Revised: 09/24/2008] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, many studies have emphasized how changes in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-mediated gene expression result in biological effects, raising interest in this receptor as a regulator of normal biological function. This review focuses on what is known about the role of the AHR in the female reproductive system, which includes the ovaries, Fallopian tubes or oviduct, uterus and vagina. This review also focuses on the role of the AHR in reproductive outcomes such as cyclicity, senescence, and fertility. Specifically, studies using potent AHR ligands, as well as transgenic mice lacking the AHR-signaling pathway are discussed from a viewpoint of understanding the endogenous role of this ligand-activated transcription factor in the female reproductive lifespan. Based on findings highlighted in this paper, it is proposed that the AHR has a role in physiological functions including ovarian function, establishment of an optimum environment for fertilization, nourishing the embryo and maintaining pregnancy, as well as in regulating reproductive lifespan and fertility. The mechanisms by which the AHR regulates female reproduction are poorly understood, but it is anticipated that new models and the ability to generate specific gene deletions will provide powerful experimental tools for better understanding how alterations in AHR pathways result in functional changes in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Hernández-Ochoa
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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20
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Bruner-Tran KL, Yeaman GR, Crispens MA, Igarashi TM, Osteen KG. Dioxin may promote inflammation-related development of endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2008; 89:1287-98. [PMID: 18394613 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.02.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2007] [Revised: 02/08/2008] [Accepted: 02/08/2008] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Laboratory and population-based studies suggest that exposure to environmental toxicants may be one of several triggers for the development of endometriosis. We discuss evidence that modulation of the endometrial endocrine-immune interface could mechanistically link toxicant exposure to the development of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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21
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Critchley HOD, Osei J, Henderson TA, Boswell L, Sales KJ, Jabbour HN, Hirani N. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha expression in human endometrium and its regulation by prostaglandin E-series prostanoid receptor 2 (EP2). Endocrinology 2006; 147:744-53. [PMID: 16282352 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle is a complex interaction of sex steroids, prostanoids, and cytokines that lead to coordinated tissue degradation, regeneration and repair. The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1) plays critical roles in cellular responses to hypoxia, the generation of an inflammatory response and vasculogenesis through transcriptional activation of angiogenic genes. We hypothesize that HIF-1 is expressed in human endometrium and that locally synthesized prostaglandins (PGE2 and PGF(2alpha)) regulate HIF-1 activity. Here we demonstrate that PGE2 up-regulates HIF-1alpha mRNA and protein via the E-series prostanoid receptor 2 (EP2), and this up-regulation is dependent on epidermal growth factor receptor kinase activity. We show the tight temporal-spatial confinement of HIF-1alpha protein expression in endometrium across the cycle. HIF-1alpha is expressed exclusively during the secretory and menstrual phases. Protein expression is maximal at progesterone withdrawal during the late secretory and menstrual phase. HIF-1alpha protein colocalizes with prostaglandin EP2 receptor in glandular cells. In contrast, HIF-1beta/aryl receptor nuclear translocator 1 expression occurs throughout the cycle but is maximal in glandular cells during the proliferative phase. This provides evidence for a role for HIF-1 in the menstrual cycle and demonstrates that HIF-1 activation in human endometrium may occur via a PGE2-regulated pathway and provides a coordinated pathway from progesterone withdrawal through to angiogenic gene expression via HIF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary O D Critchley
- University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Building, Scotland, UK.
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22
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Mueller MD, Vigne JL, Streich M, Tee MK, Raio L, Dreher E, Bersinger NA, Taylor RN. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin increases glycodelin gene and protein expression in human endometrium. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005; 90:4809-15. [PMID: 15886252 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2004-2064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Glycodelin (GdA) is an immunosuppressive endometrial glycoprotein critical for embryonic implantation and pregnancy establishment. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of dioxin [2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)] on GdA production in human endometrial cells. DESIGN Controlled endometrial explant (EE) and cell cultures were used in this study. SETTING Work was conducted at university hospital research laboratories in Bern, Switzerland, and in San Francisco, California. PATIENTS Ovulatory women provided endometrial biopsies in the proliferative or secretory phase. INTERVENTION(S) EEs and cells were cultured without and with TCDD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) GdA protein and gene expression were quantified. RESULTS A 2.5-fold increase in GdA production was demonstrated in EEs treated with 10 nm TCDD for 9 d. Fluorography revealed a 3- to 4-fold increase in new GdA biosynthesis and secretion in TCDD-treated endometrial epithelial cells. Because the action of dioxin is mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), we ascertained that primary epithelial and Ishikawa cells express AhR. Dose responses to TCDD and expressed AhR were established in transiently transfected Ishikawa cells using luciferase fusion vectors containing 1.0 kb of 5' flanking DNA relative to the GdA transcriptional start site but not when shorter promoter constructs were used. A dioxin response element was mapped to nucleotides -539 to -533 of the gene promoter and verified by site-directed mutagenesis. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated a direct AhR-mediated effect of dioxin on GdA gene transcription and protein secretion that might influence human female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Mueller
- Endometriosis Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010 Bern, Switzerland.
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23
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Kitajima M, Khan KN, Fujishita A, Masuzaki H, Koji T, Ishimaru T. Expression of the arylhydrocarbon receptor in the peri-implantation period of the mouse uterus and the impact of dioxin on mouse implantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 67:465-74. [PMID: 15781987 DOI: 10.1679/aohc.67.465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a nuclear transcription factor mediating toxic effects of chemicals such as dioxins. The 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a member of polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons family, exerts a wide-variety of toxic effects in a tissue- and species-specific manner including the reproduction process. Recently, AhR-mediated direct effects of TCDD on a cell-specific interaction with ovarian steroids have been shown. However, information regarding the effects of TCDD on the mouse implantation is limited. We therefore examined the expression and localization of AhR in the pregnant mouse uterus from 4 to 10 days of gestation (day 4 to day 10) using immunohistochemistry to investigate the effect of TCDD on uterine tissue during the peri-implantation period. Intense AhR expression was detected in the uterine vasculature throughout the periods examined. We also found that implanted blastocysts and their surrounding luminal epithelia and decidualized stroma expressed AhR on day 5. On days 6 and 7, persistent AhR expression was found in the transitional zone between the invading embryonic tissue and decidual tissue. On days 9 to 10, placental vasculature and spongiotrophoblasts displayed AhR immunoreactivity. The administration of TCDD on day 4 decreased the number of surviving implanted embryos on day 7 in a dose-dependent manner. This effect of TCDD was inhibited by the simultaneous administration of an AhR antagonist, alpha-naphthoflavone (alpha-NF). The spatio-temporal expression of AhR during the peri-implantation phase of the mouse uterus may indicate functional roles of this orphan receptor in fetomaternal interactions as well as substantiate the risk of exposure to chemicals such as dioxins during the reproductive period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michio Kitajima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8102, Japan.
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24
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Kitajima M, Khan KN, Fujishita A, Masuzaki H, Ishimaru T. Histomorphometric alteration and cell-type specific modulation of arylhydrocarbon receptor and estrogen receptor expression by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and 17β-estradiol in mouse experimental model of endometriosis. Reprod Toxicol 2004; 18:793-801. [PMID: 15279877 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2004.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2003] [Revised: 04/05/2004] [Accepted: 04/27/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Our purpose was to examine the effect of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), either singly (10 microg/kg) or with 17beta-estradiol (E2, 100 microg/kg), on the growth of endometriosis in a mouse endometriosis model by employing histo-morphometrical analysis as well as expression of arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and estrogen receptor (ER). Epithelial height, stromal thickness, and proliferative activity of the endometriotic lesions were significantly increased by E2 in ovariectomized mice, whereas co-administered TCDD significantly reduced these effects. TCDD alone did not affect the proliferative activity but rather reduced the epithelial height and stromal thickness. ER expression in the luminal epithelium was decreased by E2 compared with ovariectomy alone, while TCDD significantly increased it. On the other hand, stromal ER expression was significantly increased by ovariectomy and decreased by E2, though TCDD did not further enhance this expression. These results indicate that a short-term exposure to TCDD failed to increase the growth of endometriotic lesion and the direct effect of TCDD probably depends on a cell-specific interaction with ovarian steroids mediated by their own receptors. These initial findings in intact tissue of mouse endometriosis may suggest critical roles of steroid hormones in the pathogenesis of endometriosis in relation to endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michio Kitajima
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8102, Japan.
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25
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Knockaert M, Blondel M, Bach S, Leost M, Elbi C, Hager GL, Nagy SR, Han D, Denison M, Ffrench M, Ryan XP, Magiatis P, Polychronopoulos P, Greengard P, Skaltsounis L, Meijer L. Independent actions on cyclin-dependent kinases and aryl hydrocarbon receptor mediate the antiproliferative effects of indirubins. Oncogene 2004; 23:4400-12. [PMID: 15077192 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1207535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Indirubin, a bis-indole obtained from various natural sources, is responsible for the reported antileukemia activity of a Chinese Medicinal recipe, Danggui Longhui Wan. However, its molecular mechanism of action is still not well understood. In addition to inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases and glycogen synthase kinase-3, indirubins have been reported to activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a cotranscriptional factor. Here, we confirm the interaction of AhR and indirubin using a series of indirubin derivatives and show that their binding modes to AhR and to protein kinases are unrelated. As reported for other AhR ligands, binding of indirubins to AhR leads to its nuclear translocation. Furthermore, the apparent survival of AhR-/- and +/+ cells, as measured by the MTT assay, is equally sensitive to the kinase-inhibiting indirubins. Thus, the cytotoxic effects of indirubins are AhR-independent and more likely to be linked to protein kinase inhibition. In contrast, a dramatic cytostatic effect, as measured by actual cell counts and associated with a sharp G1 phase arrest, is induced by 1-methyl-indirubins, a subfamily of AhR-active but kinase-inactive indirubins. As shown for TCDD (dioxin), this effect appears to be mediated through the AhR-dependent expression of p27(KIP1). Altogether these results suggest that AhR activation, rather than kinase inhibition, is responsible for the cytostatic effects of some indirubins. In contrast, kinase inhibition, rather than AhR activation, represents the main mechanism underlying the cytotoxic properties of this class of promising antitumor molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Knockaert
- C.N.R.S., Cell Cycle Group and UPS-2682, Station Biologique, BP 74, 29682 ROSCOFF cedex, Bretagne, France
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26
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Sugiura-Ogasawara M, Ozaki Y, Sonta SI, Makino T, Suzumori K. PCBs, Hexachlorobenzene and DDE are not Associated with Recurrent Miscarriage. Am J Reprod Immunol 2003; 50:485-9. [PMID: 14750556 DOI: 10.1046/j.8755-8920.2003.00106.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM A case-control study was designed to evaluate any associations between high exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and the 1,1,1,-trichloro-2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDT) metabolite 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl) ethylene (DDE) and recurrent miscarriage and immunoendocrine abnormalities. METHODS OF STUDY A total of 18 kinds of co-planer PCBs, HCB, DDE, natural killer cell (NK) activity, antiphospholipid antibodies, antinuclear antibody, prolactin, progesterone, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 were examined in 45 patients with a history of three or more (3-11) consecutive first-trimester miscarriages and 30 healthy women with no history of live birth and infertility. RESULTS There were no differences in mean +/- S.D. values in serum samples for PCBs, HCB and DDE between patients and controls. Hypothyroidism, hyperprolactinemia, luteal phase defects, NK cell activity and the presence of autoantibodies were also not associated with levels of any of the compounds in the patients. CONCLUSION PCBs, HCB and DDE are not associated with miscarriage and immunoendocrine abnormalities in patients with a history of recurrent miscarriage.
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27
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Eertmans F, Dhooge W, Stuyvaert S, Comhaire F. Endocrine disruptors: effects on male fertility and screening tools for their assessment. Toxicol In Vitro 2003; 17:515-24. [PMID: 14599439 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-2333(03)00121-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
During the recent decades, a lot of research has been performed concerning the so-called "endocrine disruptors", which are widespread in the environment. These compounds of anthropogenic or natural origin mimic the action of sex hormones and can interfere with the endocrine system. The largest body of evidence exists for those compounds that are estrogenic in nature, but the amount of experimental data on other types of interactions, especially anti-androgenic, steadily increases. Because of the growing public and scientific concern, epidemiological studies have been initiated to analyse the short and long-term effects of endocrine disruptors. In addition, a number of assays have been developed and are undergoing validation, aiming at high throughput screening of chemical agents with suspected endocrine disrupting properties. In the present review, we briefly describe the results of epidemiological studies dealing with observed time trends in male fertility disorders. In the second part of the article, an overview is given of the different classes of endocrine disruptors, followed by a description of the most important in vitro and in vivo bioassays, used to screen for the possible endocrine disruptive capacity of chemicals, together with future research needs for in vitro test development.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Eertmans
- Department of Endocrinology, UZ Ghent, De Pintelaan 185, B 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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28
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Ohtake F, Takeyama KI, Matsumoto T, Kitagawa H, Yamamoto Y, Nohara K, Tohyama C, Krust A, Mimura J, Chambon P, Yanagisawa J, Fujii-Kuriyama Y, Kato S. Modulation of oestrogen receptor signalling by association with the activated dioxin receptor. Nature 2003; 423:545-50. [PMID: 12774124 DOI: 10.1038/nature01606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 555] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2003] [Accepted: 04/01/2003] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants affect a wide variety of biological events in many species. Dioxins are typical environmental contaminants that exert adverse oestrogen-related effects. Although their anti-oestrogenic actions are well described, dioxins can also induce endometriosis and oestrogen-dependent tumours, implying possible oestrogenic effects. However, the molecular mechanism underlying oestrogen-related actions of dioxins remains largely unknown. A heterodimer of the dioxin receptor (AhR) and Arnt, which are basic helix-loop-helix/PAS-family transcription factors, mediates most of the toxic effects of dioxins. Here we show that the agonist-activated AhR/Arnt heterodimer directly associates with oestrogen receptors ER-alpha and ER-beta. This association results in the recruitment of unliganded ER and the co-activator p300 to oestrogen-responsive gene promoters, leading to activation of transcription and oestrogenic effects. The function of liganded ER is attenuated. Oestrogenic actions of AhR agonists were detected in wild-type ovariectomized mouse uteri, but were absent in AhR-/- or ER-alpha-/- ovariectomized mice. Our findings suggest a novel mechanism by which ER-mediated oestrogen signalling is modulated by a co-regulatory-like function of activated AhR/Arnt, giving rise to adverse oestrogen-related actions of dioxin-type environmental contaminants.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Nuclear Translocator
- Binding Sites
- COS Cells
- DNA-Binding Proteins
- Dioxins/pharmacology
- Environmental Pollutants/pharmacology
- Estrogens/pharmacology
- Female
- Gene Deletion
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Humans
- Methylcholanthrene/pharmacology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Ovariectomy
- Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics
- Protein Binding
- Protein Structure, Tertiary
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/agonists
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/chemistry
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/genetics
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/chemistry
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Response Elements/genetics
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Transcription Factors/chemistry
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Uterus/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiaki Ohtake
- The Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0032, Japan
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29
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Abstract
Endometriosis is characterised by the presence of abnormally located tissue resembling the endometrium with glands and stroma. Several hypotheses have attempted to explain the development of such tissue. The oldest theory, that of metaplasia, suggests that under diverse influences coelomic tissue could be transformed into endometrium. The most often cited theory, that of implantation, proposes that the physiological phenomenon of endometrial reflux in the fallopian tubes during menstruation may, in certain conditions, overcome local defense mechanisms, implant, and proliferate. The peritoneal fluid in unaffected women possesses the capacity to prevent endometriotic tissue from becoming established. The reasons for the occurrence of endometriosis and its consequences (pain, sterility, adhesions) are probably numerous and involve the endometrium, the immune system (macrophages, natural killer cells), the peritoneum, and fallopian tubes. The failure to clear the peritoneal cavity of fragments of endometrium could cause a state of local inflammation with hyperactivation of macrophages secreting a variety of different compounds. Some of these compounds may bring about metaplasia of the peritoneum or the development of Mullerian residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Vinatier
- Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Service de chirurgie gynécologique, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Lille, F59037 Cedex, Lille, France.
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30
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Lahvis GP, Lindell SL, Thomas RS, McCuskey RS, Murphy C, Glover E, Bentz M, Southard J, Bradfield CA. Portosystemic shunting and persistent fetal vascular structures in aryl hydrocarbon receptor-deficient mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2000; 97:10442-7. [PMID: 10973493 PMCID: PMC27043 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.190256997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A physiological examination of mice harboring a null allele at the aryl hydrocarbon (Ah) locus revealed that the encoded aryl hydrocarbon receptor plays a role in the resolution of fetal vascular structures during development. Although the aryl hydrocarbon receptor is more commonly studied for its role in regulating xenobiotic metabolism and dioxin toxicity, a developmental role of this protein is supported by the observation that Ah null mice display smaller livers, reduced fecundity, and decreased body weights. Upon investigating the liver phenotype, we found that the decrease in liver size is directly related to a reduction in hepatocyte size. We also found that smaller hepatocyte size is the result of massive portosystemic shunting in null animals. Colloidal carbon uptake and microsphere perfusion studies indicated that 56% of portal blood flow bypasses the liver sinusoids. Latex corrosion casts and angiography demonstrated that shunting is consistent with the existence of a patent ductus venosus in adult animals. Importantly, fetal vascular structures were also observed at other sites. Intravital microscopy demonstrated an immature sinusoidal architecture in the liver and persistent hyaloid arteries in the eyes of adult Ah null mice, whereas corrosion casting experiments described aberrations in kidney vascular patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- G P Lahvis
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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31
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Abstract
This short review summarizes some recent findings on arylhydrocarbon (dioxin) receptor expression during early pregnancy in mammals. The arylhydrocarbon receptor is a ligand-activated transcription factor and was originally described as a mediator of the toxic effects of dioxins and other chlorinated hydrocarbons such as polychlorinated biphenyls. Orally administered polychlorinated biphenyls accumulate in uterine secretions, in the pre-implantation blastocyst, in the foetus and in the placenta. Coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls are known ligands of the arylhydrocarbon receptor. Deletion experiments indicate physiological roles of the arylhydrocarbon receptor during development and for the function of various organs. During early pregnancy, the arylhydrocarbon receptor is specifically expressed in pre-implantation embryos, during blastocyst differentiation and implantation, in the endometrial epithelium and in the decidua cells of the placenta. Coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls were found to be embryotoxic in low doses, i.e. in doses found in tissues of not specifically exposed individuals originating from xenobiotic environmental background contamination. In initial experiments, low-dose exposure of rabbit blastocysts to coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls in vitro did not induce transcriptional changes of the so-called arylhydrocarbon receptor gene battery. The embryological and toxicological implications of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Fischer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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Abstract
Endometriosis is characterised by the presence of abnormally located tissue resembling the endometrium with glands and stroma. Several hypotheses have attempted to explain the development of such tissue. The most often cited theory, that of implantation, proposes that the physiological phenomenon of endometrial reflux in the fallopian tubes during menstruation may, in certain conditions, overcome local defense mechanisms, implant, and proliferate. The implantation theory does not explain why endometriosis will develop only in approximately 10-15% of women, while the reflux of endometrial tissue via the fallopian tubes during menstruation is a quasi-universal phenomenon. The endometrium of women affected by endometriosis could be abnormal compared with endometrium of healthy women. The abnormal endometrium could be able to protect itself from harmful effects of immune cells by expressing specific antigens, by harbouring a different immune cell population and by synthetizing and secreting immunosuppressive factors. Several others characteristic features of endometrium have been described in women with endometriosis: (1) production of its own estrogens in too heavy amount; (2) aptitude for setting up on peritoneum; (3) tendencies to proliferate and to invade tissue; (4) aggressiveness for the peritoneum; (5) auto-protection from physiological apoptosis; (6) abnormal expression of heat shock proteins; and (7) excessive angiogenesis.
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Bulun SE, Zeitoun KM, Kilic G. Expression of dioxin-related transactivating factors and target genes in human eutopic endometrial and endometriotic tissues. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000; 182:767-75. [PMID: 10764452 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9378(00)70325-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although an association between dioxin exposure and endometriosis has been proposed, the effects of this environmental toxin on human endometriosis are not known. To understand the potential underlying molecular mechanisms we studied the expressions of cytochrome P-450 genes (CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1 ), which are induced by dioxin, and the expressions of cytosolic receptor for dioxin, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and its nuclear translocator, aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein, in endometriotic and eutopic endometrial tissues. STUDY DESIGN Levels of transcripts of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein were determined by a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Southern blot assay in total ribonucleic acid samples from endometriotic and eutopic endometrial tissues. Eutopic endometrial tissue samples (n = 33) and endometriotic tissue samples (n = 10) were obtained at the time of uterine curettage and laparoscopy from disease-free women and from patients with endometriosis. Portions of these eutopic endometrial and endometriotic tissues were obtained simultaneously from the same patients (n = 8 pairs of samples). Levels of transcripts of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein were determined in endometrial and endometriotic tissues during follicular and luteal phases of the cycle and in cultured endometriotic stromal cells treated with forskolin, phorbol diacetate, medroxyprogesterone acetate,and serum. RESULTS Transcripts of dioxin receptor, its nuclear translocator, and two dioxin-induced target genes (CYP1A2 and CYP1B1) were demonstrated during follicular and luteal phases of the cycle in both eutopic endometrial tissues and tissues affected by pelvic endometriosis, with no readily detectable differences between these tissues. On the other hand, levels of transcripts of another dioxin-induced gene, CYP1A1, were found to be strikingly higher in endometriotic tissues than in the eutopic endometrium. Mean levels in endometriotic tissues were 8.7 times those found in eutopic endometrium. Various hormonal treatments of endometriotic stromal cells did not significantly alter these levels. CONCLUSION We demonstrated for the first time the expression of dioxin-related transcription factors aryl hydrocarbon receptor and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein and target genes CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1 in endometriotic tissues and stromal cells. Strikingly elevated CYP1A1 transcripts in endometriosis may give rise to significantly increased P-4501A1 enzyme activity and thus promote the development and growth of endometriosis by either activating procarcinogens or inducing the formation of catechol estrogens or both. In fact, the proposed link between dioxin exposure and endometriosis may be explained in part by the up-regulation of the CYP1A1 gene expression in endometriotic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 60612, USA
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Leyendecker G. Redefining endometriosis: endometriosis is an entity with extreme pleiomorphism. Hum Reprod 2000; 15:4-7. [PMID: 10611178 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/15.1.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Leyendecker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Klinikum Darmstadt, Academic Teaching Hospital to the University of Frankfurt, Darmstadt, Germany
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Tscheudschilsuren G, Hombach-Klonisch S, Küchenhoff A, Fischer B, Klonisch T. Expression of the arylhydrocarbon receptor and the arylhydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator during early gestation in the rabbit uterus. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1999; 160:231-7. [PMID: 10544057 DOI: 10.1006/taap.1999.8773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and the arylhydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) are members of the PAS gene family mediating toxic effects of xenobiotics such as dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls. We have analyzed the expression and cellular distribution of rabbit AhR and ARNT mRNA and protein level in the nonpregnant uterus and the pregnant and pseudopregnant uterus at Days 6 to 12 of gestation. In the preimplantation uterus at Day 6 of gestation and in the interimplantation and pseudopregnant uterus at Days 7, 8, 9, and 12 of gestation, low levels of AhR transcripts were detected in the glandular uterine epithelium. Upon attachment of the blastocyst at Day 7 of gestation, a strong expression of AhR and ARNT mRNA was observed in the luminal and glandular epithelium of the antimesometrial uterine compartment. In contrast, AhR and ARNT expression was low in the luminal epithelium of the paraplacental and the mesometrial placental fold. AhR mRNA was also detected in the trophoblast cells. During early placentation at Day 9 of gestation, expression of AhR and ARNT was first observed in the perivascular decidualized stromal cells and, at Day 12, extended to the decidualized stromal cells of the placental bed. Within the placenta, the syncytiotrophoblast expressed only low levels of AhR and ARNT mRNA and no protein. The specific expression patterns of AhR and ARNT during early gestation suggest functional roles for both transcription factors during feto-maternal interactions in the rabbit.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tscheudschilsuren
- Department of Anatomy, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), D-06097, Germany
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