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Croft J, Grajeda B, Gao L, Abou-Fadel J, Badr A, Sheng V, Zhang J. Whole-Genome Omics Elucidates the Role of CCM1 and Progesterone in Cerebral Cavernous Malformations within CmPn Networks. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1895. [PMID: 39272679 PMCID: PMC11394482 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14171895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are abnormal expansions of brain capillaries that increase the risk of hemorrhagic strokes, with CCM1 mutations responsible for about 50% of familial cases. The disorder can cause irreversible brain damage by compromising the blood-brain barrier (BBB), leading to fatal brain hemorrhages. Studies show that progesterone and its derivatives significantly impact BBB integrity. The three CCM proteins (CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3) form the CCM signaling complex (CSC), linking classic and non-classic progesterone signaling within the CmPn network, which is crucial for maintaining BBB integrity. This study aimed to explore the relationship between CCM1 and key pathways of the CmPn signaling network using three mouse embryonic fibroblast lines (MEFs) with distinct CCM1 expressions. Omics and systems biology analysis investigated CCM1-mediated signaling within the CmPn network. Our findings reveal that CCM1 is essential for regulating cellular processes within progesterone-mediated CmPn/CmP signaling, playing a crucial role in maintaining microvessel integrity. This regulation occurs partly through gene transcription control. The critical role of CCM1 in these processes suggests it could be a promising therapeutic target for CCMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Croft
- Departs of Molecular & Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso (TTUHSCEP), El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Brian Grajeda
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA
| | - Liyuan Gao
- Department of Computer Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Johnathan Abou-Fadel
- Departs of Molecular & Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso (TTUHSCEP), El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Ahmed Badr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ochsner LSU Health, Shreveport, LA 71130, USA
| | - Victor Sheng
- Department of Computer Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jun Zhang
- Departs of Molecular & Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso (TTUHSCEP), El Paso, TX 79905, USA
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Dias Da Silva I, Wuidar V, Zielonka M, Pequeux C. Unraveling the Dynamics of Estrogen and Progesterone Signaling in the Endometrium: An Overview. Cells 2024; 13:1236. [PMID: 39120268 PMCID: PMC11312103 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is crucial for the perpetuation of human species. It is a complex and dynamic tissue lining the inner wall of the uterus, regulated throughout a woman's life based on estrogen and progesterone fluctuations. During each menstrual cycle, this multicellular tissue undergoes cyclical changes, including regeneration, differentiation in order to allow egg implantation and embryo development, or shedding of the functional layer in the absence of pregnancy. The biology of the endometrium relies on paracrine interactions between epithelial and stromal cells involving complex signaling pathways that are modulated by the variations of estrogen and progesterone levels across the menstrual cycle. Understanding the complexity of estrogen and progesterone receptor signaling will help elucidate the mechanisms underlying normal reproductive physiology and provide fundamental knowledge contributing to a better understanding of the consequences of hormonal imbalances on gynecological conditions and tumorigenesis. In this narrative review, we delve into the physiology of the endometrium, encompassing the complex signaling pathways of estrogen and progesterone.
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Grants
- J.0165.24, 7.6529.23, J.0153.22, 7.4580.21F, 7.6518.21, J.0131.19 Fund for Scientific Research
- FSR-F-2023-FM, FSR-F-2022-FM, FSR-F-2021-FM, FSR-F-M-19/6761 University of Liège
- 2020, 2021, 2022 Fondation Léon Fredericq
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christel Pequeux
- Tumors and Development, Estrogen-Sensitive Tissues and Cancer Team, GIGA-Cancer, Laboratory of Biology, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.D.D.S.); (V.W.); (M.Z.)
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3
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Presela R, Prabu SS, Ch'ng ES, Tang TH, Citartan M. The diagnostic potentiality of the RNA aptamer against progesterone receptor isolated by crush and soak (CRUSOAK)-SELEX. Mikrochim Acta 2024; 191:346. [PMID: 38802696 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-024-06423-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Aptamers are a class of molecular recognition elements that exhibit high binding affinity and specificity against their respective targets. In view of the many advantages aptamers harbor over their counterpart antibodies, we were impelled to isolate an RNA aptamer against progesterone receptor, particularly its DNA binding domain. A total of eight SELEX cycles were executed against the recombinant Progesterone Receptor DNA-binding domain (PR DBD). The RNA-protein complex in the gel shift assay was subjected to crush and soak method to elute the binders prior to conventional sequencing, the step of which was based upon to coin the term CRUSOAK-SELEX. The sequencing revealed three different classes of sequences, with one class termed, PRapt-3, showing the strongest binding against PR DBD. The dissociation constant of PRapt-3 RNA aptamer was estimated at 380 nM ± 35 nM. PRapt-3 was successfully used to develop aptamer-based diagnostic assays such as ELASA, aptamer-based dot blot, and aptamer-based western blot. The prominent highlight is the performance of the aptamer in aptacytostaining, which was unachievable with antibodies. Compared to its counterpart antibodies, PRapt-3 has a better penetration capacity in aptahistostaining using the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) breast cancer cells and tissue blocks. This study represents the first ever demonstration of an aptamer against progesterone receptor and its diagnostic capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravinderan Presela
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Siva Sankar Prabu
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ewe Seng Ch'ng
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Thean-Hock Tang
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Marimuthu Citartan
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia.
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Szucio W, Bernaczyk P, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Milewska G, Pawelczyk A, Wołczyński S, Rahman NA. Progesterone signaling in uterine leiomyoma biology: Implications for potential targeted therapy. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:21-28. [PMID: 38278085 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign smooth muscle cell steroid-dependent tumors that occur in women of reproductive age. Progesterone (P4) is a major hormone that promotes the ULs development and growth. P4 action in ULs is mediated mainly by its nuclear progesterone receptors (PGRs), although rapid non-genomic responses have also been observed. Data on the membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) regulated signaling pathways in ULs in the available literature is still very limited. One of the essential characteristics of ULs is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM). P4 has been shown to stimulate ECM production and collagen synthesis in ULs. Recent research demonstrated that, despite their benign nature, ULs may present with abnormal vasculature. P4 has been shown to regulate angiogenesis in ULs through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and by controlling the secretion of permeability factors. This review summarizes the key findings regarding the role of PGRs and mPRs in ULs, especially highlighting the potential ECM and angiogenesis modulation by P4. An increased understanding of this mechanistic role of nuclear and specifically mPRs in the biology of P4-modulated ECM and angiogenesis in the growth of ULs could turn out to be fundamental for developing effective targeted therapies for ULs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Szucio
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Piotr Bernaczyk
- Department of Medical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Gabriela Milewska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Pawelczyk
- Department of Plastic, Endocrine and General Surgery, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Sławomir Wołczyński
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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Baldwin SN, Jepps TA, Greenwood IA. Cycling matters: Sex hormone regulation of vascular potassium channels. Channels (Austin) 2023; 17:2217637. [PMID: 37243715 PMCID: PMC10228406 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2023.2217637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones and the reproductive cycle (estrus in rodents and menstrual in humans) have a known impact on arterial function. In spite of this, sex hormones and the estrus/menstrual cycle are often neglected experimental factors in vascular basic preclinical scientific research. Recent research by our own laboratory indicates that cyclical changes in serum concentrations of sex -hormones across the rat estrus cycle, primary estradiol, have significant consequences for the subcellular trafficking and function of KV. Vascular potassium channels, including KV, are essential components of vascular reactivity. Our study represents a small part of a growing field of literature aimed at determining the role of sex hormones in regulating arterial ion channel function. This review covers key findings describing the current understanding of sex hormone regulation of vascular potassium channels, with a focus on KV channels. Further, we highlight areas of research where the estrus cycle should be considered in future studies to determine the consequences of physiological oscillations in concentrations of sex hormones on vascular potassium channel function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel N Baldwin
- Vascular Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas A Jepps
- Vascular Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Iain A Greenwood
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St George’s University of London, London, UK
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Tiwari A, Tiwari V, Sharma A, Singh D, Singh Rawat M, Virmani T, Virmani R, Kumar G, Kumar M, Alhalmi A, Noman OM, Mothana RA, Alali M. Tanshinone-I for the treatment of uterine fibroids: Molecular docking, simulation, and density functional theory investigations. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:1061-1076. [PMID: 37250358 PMCID: PMC10209546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UF), most prevalent gynecological disorder, require surgery when symptomatic. It is estimated that between 25 and 35 percent of women wait until the symptoms have worsened like extended heavy menstrual bleeding and severe pelvic pain. These UF may be reduced in size through various methods such as medical or surgical intervention. Progesterone (prog) is a crucial hormone that restores the endometrium and controls uterine function. In the current study, 28 plant-based molecules are identified from previous literature and docked onto the prog receptors with 1E3K and 2OVH. Tanshinone-I has shown the best docking score against both proteins. The synthetic prog inhibitor Norethindrone Acetate is used as a standard to evaluate the docking outcomes. The best compound, tanshinone-I, was analyzed using molecular modeling and DFT. The RMSD for the 1E3K protein-ligand complex ranged from 0.10 to 0.42 Å, with an average of 0.21 Å and a standard deviation (SD) of 0.06, while the RMSD for the 2OVH protein-ligand complex ranged from 0.08 to 0.42 Å, with an average of 0.20 Å and a SD of 0.06 showing stable interaction. In principal component analysis, the observed eigen values of HPR-Tanshinone-I fluctuate between -1.11 to 1.48 and -1.07 to 1.25 for PC1 and PC2, respectively (1E3K), and the prog-tanshinone-I complex shows eigen values of -38.88 to -31.32 and -31.32 to 35.87 for PC1 and PC2, respectively (2OVH), which shows Tanshinone-I forms a stable protein-ligand complex with 1E3K in comparison to 2OVH. The Free Energy Landscape (FEL) analysis shows the Gibbs free energy in the range of 0 to 8 kJ/mol for Tanshinone-I with 1E3K and 0 to 14 kJ/mol for Tanshinone-I with the 2OVH complex. The DFT calculation reveals ΔE value of 2.8070 eV shows tanshinone-I as a stable compound. 1E3K modulates the prog pathway, it may have either an agonistic or antagonistic effect on hPRs. Tanshinone-I can cause ROS, apoptosis, autophagy (p62 accumulation), up-regulation of inositol requiring protein-1, enhancer-binding protein homologous protein, p-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), and suppression of MMPs. Bcl-2 expression can change LC3I to LC3II and cause apoptosis through Beclin-1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Lodhipur-Rajpur, Moradabad 244102, India
| | - Varsha Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Lodhipur-Rajpur, Moradabad 244102, India
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Deependra Singh
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Manju Singh Rawat
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Tarun Virmani
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Palwal, Haryana 121105, India
| | - Reshu Virmani
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Palwal, Haryana 121105, India
| | - Girish Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Palwal, Haryana 121105, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CT University, Ludhiana- 142024 Punjab, India
| | - Abdulsalam Alhalmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Omar M. Noman
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramzi A. Mothana
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Alali
- Institute of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
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7
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Gnanasekaran R, Aickareth J, Hawwar M, Sanchez N, Croft J, Zhang J. CmPn/CmP Signaling Networks in the Maintenance of the Blood Vessel Barrier. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13050751. [PMID: 37240921 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13050751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) arise when capillaries within the brain enlarge abnormally, causing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to break down. The BBB serves as a sophisticated interface that controls molecular interactions between the bloodstream and the central nervous system. The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a complex structure made up of neurons, astrocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, microglia, and basement membranes, which work together to maintain blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Within the NVU, tight junctions (TJs) and adherens junctions (AJs) between endothelial cells play a critical role in regulating the permeability of the BBB. Disruptions to these junctions can compromise the BBB, potentially leading to a hemorrhagic stroke. Understanding the molecular signaling cascades that regulate BBB permeability through EC junctions is, therefore, essential. New research has demonstrated that steroids, including estrogens (ESTs), glucocorticoids (GCs), and metabolites/derivatives of progesterone (PRGs), have multifaceted effects on blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability by regulating the expression of tight junctions (TJs) and adherens junctions (AJs). They also have anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels. PRGs, in particular, have been found to play a significant role in maintaining BBB integrity. PRGs act through a combination of its classic and non-classic PRG receptors (nPR/mPR), which are part of a signaling network known as the CCM signaling complex (CSC). This network couples both nPR and mPR in the CmPn/CmP pathway in endothelial cells (ECs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathi Gnanasekaran
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Justin Aickareth
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Majd Hawwar
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Nickolas Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Jacob Croft
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
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8
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Alawadhi M, Kilarkaje N, Mouihate A, Al-Bader MD. Role of progesterone on dexamethasone-induced alterations in placental vascularization and progesterone receptors in rats†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:133-149. [PMID: 36322157 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is manifested by lower maternal progesterone levels, smaller placental size, and decreased placental vascularity indicated by lower expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Studies showed that progesterone increases angiogenesis and induces VEGF expression in different tissues. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of progesterone on placental vascular bed and VEGF expression and the modulation of nuclear and membranous progesterone receptors (PR) in dexamethasone-induced rat IUGR model. METHODS Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated into four groups and given intraperitoneal injections of either saline, dexamethasone, dexamethasone, and progesterone or progesterone. Injections started on gestation day (DG) 15 and lasted until the days of euthanization (19 and 21 DG). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to evaluate plasma progesterone levels. Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to evaluate gene and protein expressions of VEGF, and PR in labyrinth and basal placental zones. Immunohistochemistry was used to locate VEGF and different PRs in placental cells. Immunofluorescence was used to monitor the expression of blood vessel marker (αSMA). RESULTS Dexamethasone decreased the vascular bed fraction and the expression of VEGF in both placental zones. Progesterone co-treatment with dexamethasone prevented this reduction. Nuclear and membrane PRs showed tissue-specific expression in different placental zones and responded differently to both dexamethasone and progesterone. CONCLUSIONS Progesterone treatment improves the outcomes in IUGR pregnancy. Progesterone alleviated DEX-induced IUGR probably by promoting placental VEGF and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Alawadhi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Narayana Kilarkaje
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Maie D Al-Bader
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Signaling Pathways Regulating Human Cervical Ripening in Preterm and Term Delivery. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223690. [PMID: 36429118 PMCID: PMC9688647 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
At the end of gestation, the cervical tissue changes profoundly. As a result of these changes, the uterine cervix becomes soft and vulnerable to dilation. The process occurring in the cervical tissue can be described as cervical ripening. The ripening is a process derivative of enzymatic breakdown and inflammatory response. Therefore, it is apparent that cervical remodeling is a derivative of the reactions mediated by multiple factors such as hormones, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, and inflammatory cytokines. However, despite the research carried out over the years, the cellular pathways responsible for regulating this process are still poorly understood. A comprehensive understanding of the entire process of cervical ripening seems crucial in the context of labor induction. Greater knowledge could provide us with the means to help women who suffer from dysfunctional labor. The overall objective of this review is to present the current understanding of cervical ripening in terms of molecular regulation and cell signaling.
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Kolatorova L, Vitku J, Suchopar J, Hill M, Parizek A. Progesterone: A Steroid with Wide Range of Effects in Physiology as Well as Human Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7989. [PMID: 35887338 PMCID: PMC9322133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone is a steroid hormone traditionally linked with female fertility and pregnancy. In current reproductive medicine, progesterone and its analogues play crucial roles. While the discovery of its effects has a long history, over recent decades, various novel actions of this interesting steroid have been documented, of which its neuro- and immunoprotective activities are the most widely discussed. Discoveries of the novel biological activities of progesterone have also driven research and development in the field of progesterone analogues used in human medicine. Progestogen treatment has traditionally and predominately been used in maintaining pregnancy, the prevention of preterm labor, various gynecological pathologies, and in lowering the negative effects of menopause. However, there are also various other medical fields where progesterone and its analogues could find application in the future. The aim of this work is to show the mechanisms of action of progesterone and its metabolites, the physiological and pharmacological actions of progesterone and its synthetic analogues in human medicine, as well as the impacts of its production and use on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Kolatorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Josef Suchopar
- DrugAgency, a.s., Klokotska 833/1a, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.V.); (M.H.)
| | - Antonin Parizek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital, Apolinarska 18, 128 51 Prague, Czech Republic;
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Peluso JJ. Progesterone Signaling and Mammalian Ovarian Follicle Growth Mediated by Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component Family Members. Cells 2022; 11:1632. [PMID: 35626669 PMCID: PMC9139379 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
How progesterone influences ovarian follicle growth is a difficult question to answer because ovarian cells synthesize progesterone and express not only the classic nuclear progesterone receptor but also members of the progestin and adipoQ receptor family and the progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC) family. Which type of progestin receptor is expressed depends on the ovarian cell type as well as the stage of the estrous/menstrual cycle. Given the complex nature of the mammalian ovary, this review will focus on progesterone signaling that is transduced by PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 specifically as it relates to ovarian follicle growth. PGRMC1 was identified as a progesterone binding protein cloned from porcine liver in 1996 and detected in the mammalian ovary in 2005. Subsequent studies focused on PGRMC family members as regulators of granulosa cell proliferation and survival, two physiological processes required for follicle development. This review will present evidence that demonstrates a causal relationship between PGRMC family members and the promotion of ovarian follicle growth. The mechanisms through which PGRMC-dependent signaling regulates granulosa cell proliferation and viability will also be discussed in order to provide a more complete understanding of our current concept of how progesterone regulates ovarian follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J. Peluso
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
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12
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Varticovski L, Stavreva DA, McGowan A, Raziuddin R, Hager GL. Endocrine disruptors of sex hormone activities. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 539:111415. [PMID: 34339825 PMCID: PMC8762672 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Sex hormones, such as androgens, estrogens and progestins are naturally occurring compounds that tightly regulate endocrine systems in a variety of living organisms. Uncontrolled environmental exposure to these hormones or their biological and synthetic mimetics has been widely documented. Furthermore, water contaminants penetrate soil to affect flora, fauna and ultimately humans. Because endocrine systems evolved to respond to very small changes in hormone levels, the low levels found in the environment cannot be ignored. The combined actions of sex hormones with glucocorticoids and other nuclear receptors disruptors creates additional level of complexity including the newly described "dynamic assisted loading" mechanism. We reviewed the extensive literature pertaining to world-wide detection of these disruptors and created a detailed Table on the development and current status of methods used for their analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Varticovski
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - D A Stavreva
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - A McGowan
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - R Raziuddin
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - G L Hager
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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13
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Kanda R, Miyagawa Y, Wada-Hiraike O, Hiraike H, Nagasaka K, Ryo E, Fujii T, Osuga Y, Ayabe T. Ulipristal acetate simultaneously provokes antiproliferative and proinflammatory responses in endometrial cancer cells. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08696. [PMID: 35036597 PMCID: PMC8749191 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA), a selective progesterone receptor modulator, is used for the treatment of uterine fibroids and selectively inhibits the proliferation and inflammation of leiomyoma cells. As few studies have focused on the molecular biological mechanism of UPA in Ishikawa endometrial cancer cells, we aimed to identify the effects of UPA on these cells. Ishikawa cells were treated with different concentrations of UPA. Cell viability and colony formation assays were performed to assess the growth of cancer cells, whereas invasion and migration assays were used to measure cell motility and invasiveness. Western blotting, caspase 3/7 assay, TUNEL assay, and flow cytometry were performed to analyze apoptosis. Moreover, expression levels of the proinflammatory cytokines oncostatin M, its receptor, interleukin 6, and interleukin 8 were examined using quantitative real-time PCR. UPA decreased cell viability and growth, thereby inhibiting cell migration and invasion via induction of apoptosis. Contrary to expectation, stand-alone application of UPA increased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines but concomitant use of UPA and the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,720 decreased it. These data revealed a novel dual role of UPA: It could attenuate cell growth via activation of apoptosis while simultaneously provoking the activation of proinflammatory cytokines in endometrial cancer cells. These indicate that the combination of UPA and an estrogen receptor antagonist may be useful in suppressing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines by UPA alone. A selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate, used for the treatment of uterine fibroids and selectively inhibits the proliferation and inflammation of leiomyoma cells decreased cell viability and growth in Ishikawa endometrial cancer cells. Ulipristal acetate induced apoptosis in endometrial cancer cells and activated oncostatin M, IL-6, IL-8 known as proinflammatory cytokine. Combination of Ulipristal acetate and estrogen receptor antagonist downregulated proinflammatory cytokine in endometrial cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranka Kanda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Miyagawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Wada-Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Haruko Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazunori Nagasaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiji Ryo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takuya Ayabe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Sabbir MG, Inoue A, Taylor CG, Zahradka P. Loss of β-Arrestins or six Gα proteins in HEK293 cells caused Warburg effect and prevented progesterone-induced rapid proteasomal degradation of progesterone receptor membrane component 1. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 214:105995. [PMID: 34506922 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal dysregulation plays a significant role in the metabolic switching during malignant transformation. Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 (PGRMC1) is a single-pass transmembrane receptor activated by the binding of progesterone (P4), a sex hormone. In a previous study, P4 treatment caused rapid (within 30 min) induction of aerobic glycolysis in transformed HEK293 cells, a hallmark malignant phenotype known as the Warburg effect. This metabolic reprogramming was associated with the proteasomal degradation of a 70 kilodalton (kDa) PGRMC1. PGRMC1 interacts with a variety of proteins, including G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and P4-PGRMC1 signaling modulates cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production. Therefore, we hypothesized that the P4-induced Warburg effect and proteasomal degradation of PGRMC1 involve G proteins and β-Arrestins (ARRBs). In the present study, we investigated P4-induced aerobic glycolysis, proteasomal degradation of p70 PGRMC1, as well as abundance and subcellular translocation of PGRMC1 along with two key glycolytic enzymes Hexokinase 1 (HK1) and Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (GAPDH) in six Gα subunit (Gsix) proteins or ARRB1/2-deficient HEK293 cells. Loss of ARRB1/2 or Gsix proteins inhibited P4-induced p70 PGRMC1 degradation but failed to prevent the P4-induced Warburg effect. Also, deficiency of ARRB1/2 or Gsix proteins differentially affected the basal as well as P4-induced abundance and subcellular translocation of PGRMC1, HK1, and GAPDH proteins. Overall, the findings indicate that P4-PGRMC1-mediated metabolic reprogramming in HEK293 cells depends on β-Arrestins and Gα proteins suggesting the involvement of an underlying GPCR signal transduction pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Golam Sabbir
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, St. Boniface Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada; Alzo Biosciences Inc., San Diego, USA.
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Carla G Taylor
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, St. Boniface Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada; Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Peter Zahradka
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, St. Boniface Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada; Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
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15
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Khan N, Zargar MH, Ahmed R, Godha M, Ahmad A, Afroze D, Masoodi SR. Effect of steroid hormone receptor gene variants PROGINS (Alu insertion) and PGR C/T (rs1042839) as a risk factor for recurrent pregnancy loss in Kashmiri population (North India). J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:4329-4339. [PMID: 34626148 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To unveil and evaluate the association and analyze the incidence and pattern of PGR gene polymorphisms (PROGINS insertion and PGR exon 5-C/T polymorphism) in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) couples of Kashmir. METHODS In this study, analyses of PGR gene polymorphisms in RPL couples were genotyped by amplification-refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. RESULTS Molecular analysis of PGR gene polymorphisms indicated that the genotypic and allelic frequencies of PROGINS insertion and PGR exon 5 C/T polymorphisms of female group in cases and controls to be significantly different and poses risk in predisposition to RPL. Moreover, haplotype analysis in female group revealed that P1P2/CC and P1P2/CT genotype are significantly associated with RPL. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that the PROGINS insertion and exon 5-C/T polymorphism can act as useful genetic markers in the female group, but needs to be replicated in further studies including various other single nucleotide polymorphisms of PGR gene relevant to pregnancy loss which may contribute to novel therapeutic targets with improved conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nebela Khan
- Department of Advanced Centre for Human Genetics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Mahrukh Hameed Zargar
- Department of Advanced Centre for Human Genetics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Rehana Ahmed
- Department of Advanced Centre for Human Genetics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Meena Godha
- Department of Life Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, India
| | - Abida Ahmad
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Dil Afroze
- Department of Advanced Centre for Human Genetics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Shariq R Masoodi
- Department of Endocrinology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
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16
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Mahadik N, Bhattacharya D, Padmanabhan A, Sakhare K, Narayan KP, Banerjee R. Targeting steroid hormone receptors for anti-cancer therapy-A review on small molecules and nanotherapeutic approaches. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 14:e1755. [PMID: 34541822 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The steroid hormone receptors (SHRs) among nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) are steroid ligand-dependent transcription factors that play important roles in the regulation of transcription of genes promoted via hormone responsive elements in our genome. Aberrant expression patterns and context-specific regulation of these receptors in cancer, have been routinely reported by multiple research groups. These gave an window of opportunity to target those receptors in the context of developing novel, targeted anticancer therapeutics. Besides the development of a plethora of SHR-targeting synthetic ligands and the availability of their natural, hormonal ligands, development of many SHR-targeted, anticancer nano-delivery systems and theranostics, especially based on small molecules, have been reported. It is intriguing to realize that these cytoplasmic receptors have become a hot target for cancer selective delivery. This is in spite of the fact that these receptors do not fall in the category of conventional, targetable cell surface bound or transmembrane receptors that enjoy over-expression status. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is one such exciting SHR that in spite of it being expressed ubiquitously in all cells, we discovered it to behave differently in cancer cells, thus making it a truly druggable target for treating cancer. This review selectively accumulates the knowledge generated in the field of SHR-targeting as a major focus for cancer treatment with various anticancer small molecules and nanotherapeutics on progesterone receptor, mineralocorticoid receptor, and androgen receptor while selectively emphasizing on GR and estrogen receptor. This review also briefly highlights lipid-modification strategy to convert ligands into SHR-targeted cancer nanotherapeutics. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid-Based Structures Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namita Mahadik
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Dwaipayan Bhattacharya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology Pilani, Hyderabad, India
| | - Akshaya Padmanabhan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology Pilani, Hyderabad, India
| | - Kalyani Sakhare
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology Pilani, Hyderabad, India
| | - Kumar Pranav Narayan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology Pilani, Hyderabad, India
| | - Rajkumar Banerjee
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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17
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Baker SJC, Corrigan E, Melnyk N, Hilker R, Van Der Kraak G. Nuclear progesterone receptor regulates ptger4b and PLA2G4A expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio) ovulation. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 311:113842. [PMID: 34252451 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have implicated the nuclear progesterone receptor (Pgr or nPR) as being critical to ovulation in fishes. This study investigated the expression of Pgr in zebrafish ovarian follicles throughout development as well as putative downstream targets of Pgr by searching the promoter regions of selected genes for specific DNA sequences to which Pgr binds and acts as a transcription factor. Expression of Pgr mRNA increases dramatically as follicles grow and mature. In silico analysis of selected genes linked to ovulation showed that the prostaglandin receptors ptger4a and ptger4b contained the progesterone responsive element (PRE) GRCCGGA in their promoter regions. Studies using full-grown follicles incubated in vitro revealed that ptger4b was upregulated in response to 17,20β-P. Our studies also showed that the expression of phospholipase A2 (PLA2G4A) mRNA and protein, a key enzyme in prostaglandin synthesis, was upregulated in response to 17,20β-P treatment. pla2g4a was not found to contain a PRE, indicating that it is regulated indirectly by 17,20β-P or that it may contain an as-of-yet unidentified PRE in its promoter region. Collectively, these studies provide further evidence of the importance of Pgr during the periovulatory periods through its involvement in prostaglandin production and function by controlling expression of PLA2G4A and the receptor EP4b and that these genes appear to be regulated through the actions of 17,20β-P.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheridan J C Baker
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ont. N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Emily Corrigan
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ont. N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Nicholas Melnyk
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ont. N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Renee Hilker
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Ont. N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Glen Van Der Kraak
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ont. N1G 2W1, Canada.
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18
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Leimert KB, Xu W, Princ MM, Chemtob S, Olson DM. Inflammatory Amplification: A Central Tenet of Uterine Transition for Labor. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:660983. [PMID: 34490133 PMCID: PMC8417473 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.660983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In preparation for delivery, the uterus transitions from actively maintaining quiescence during pregnancy to an active parturient state. This transition occurs as a result of the accumulation of pro-inflammatory signals which are amplified by positive feedback interactions involving paracrine and autocrine signaling at the level of each intrauterine cell and tissue. The amplification events occur in parallel until they reach a certain threshold, ‘tipping the scale’ and contributing to processes of uterine activation and functional progesterone withdrawal. The described signaling interactions all occur upstream from the presentation of clinical labor symptoms. In this review, we will: 1) describe the different physiological processes involved in uterine transition for each intrauterine tissue; 2) compare and contrast the current models of labor initiation; 3) introduce innovative models for measuring paracrine inflammatory interactions; and 4) discuss the therapeutic value in identifying and targeting key players in this crucial event for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelycia B Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Magdalena M Princ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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19
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Islam MS, Afrin S, Jones SI, Segars J. Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators-Mechanisms and Therapeutic Utility. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa012. [PMID: 32365199 PMCID: PMC8659360 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) are a new class of compounds developed to target the progesterone receptor (PR) with a mix of agonist and antagonist properties. These compounds have been introduced for the treatment of several gynecological conditions based on the critical role of progesterone in reproduction and reproductive tissues. In patients with uterine fibroids, mifepristone and ulipristal acetate have consistently demonstrated efficacy, and vilaprisan is currently under investigation, while studies of asoprisnil and telapristone were halted for safety concerns. Mifepristone demonstrated utility for the management of endometriosis, while data are limited regarding the efficacy of asoprisnil, ulipristal acetate, telapristone, and vilaprisan for this condition. Currently, none of the SPRMs have shown therapeutic success in treating endometrial cancer. Multiple SPRMs have been assessed for efficacy in treating PR-positive recurrent breast cancer, with in vivo studies suggesting a benefit of mifepristone, and multiple in vitro models suggesting the efficacy of ulipristal acetate and telapristone. Mifepristone, ulipristal acetate, vilaprisan, and asoprisnil effectively treated heavy menstrual bleeding (HBM) in patients with uterine fibroids, but limited data exist regarding the efficacy of SPRMs for HMB outside this context. A notable class effect of SPRMs are benign, PR modulator-associated endometrial changes (PAECs) due to the actions of the compounds on the endometrium. Both mifepristone and ulipristal acetate are effective for emergency contraception, and mifepristone was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012 for the treatment of Cushing's syndrome due to its additional antiglucocorticoid effect. Based on current evidence, SPRMs show considerable promise for treatment of several gynecologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sara Isabel Jones
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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20
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Jimenez VA, Walter NAR, Shnitko TA, Newman N, Diem K, Vanderhooft L, Hunt H, Grant KA. Mifepristone Decreases Chronic Voluntary Ethanol Consumption in Rhesus Macaques. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 375:258-267. [PMID: 32873623 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of short-term treatment with mifepristone (MIFE), a high-affinity, nonselective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, to reduce ethanol drinking was tested in a rhesus macaque model. Stable individual daily ethanol intakes were established, ranging from 1.6 to 4.0 g/kg per day (n = 9 monkeys). After establishment of chronic ethanol intake, a MIFE dosing regimen that modeled a study of rodent drinking and human alcohol craving was evaluated. Three doses of MIFE (17, 30, and 56 mg/kg per day) were each administered for four consecutive days. Both 30 and 56 mg/kg decreased ethanol intake compared with baseline drinking levels without a change in water intake. The dose of 56 mg/kg per day of MIFE produced the largest reduction in ethanol self-administration, with the average intake at 57% of baseline intakes. Cortisol was elevated during MIFE dosing, and a mediation analysis revealed that the effect on ethanol drinking was fully mediated through cortisol. During a forced abstinence phase, access to 1.5 g/kg ethanol resulted in relapse in all drinkers and was not altered by treatment with 56 mg/kg MIFE. Overall, these results show that during active drinking MIFE is efficacious in reducing heavy alcohol intake in a monkey model, an effect that was related to MIFE-induced increase in cortisol. However, MIFE treatment did not eliminate ethanol drinking. Further, cessation of MIFE treatment resulted in a rapid return to baseline intakes, and MIFE was not effective in preventing a relapse during early abstinence. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Mifepristone reliably decreases average daily ethanol self-administration in a nonhuman primate model. This effect was mediated by cortisol, was most effective during open-access conditions, and did not prevent or reduce relapse drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa A Jimenez
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Nicole A R Walter
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Tatiana A Shnitko
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Natali Newman
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Kaya Diem
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Lauren Vanderhooft
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Hazel Hunt
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
| | - Kathleen A Grant
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Hillsboro, Oregon (V.A.J., N.A.R.W., T.A.S., N.N., K.D., L.V., K.A.G.); Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California (H.H.); and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (K.A.G.)
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21
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Oettel M, Zentel HJ, Nickisch K. A progestin isn't a progestin: dienogest for endometriosis as a blueprint for future research - Review as a contribution for discussion. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2020; 42:133-142. [PMID: 32663169 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2020-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The different etiopathogenetic mechanisms and the diversity of clinical features of endometriosis has not yet allowed to identify a causal pharmacological monotherapy satisfying the unresolved medical needs in this important female disease. Therefore, despite the search for new therapeutic principles for the indication, the strategy of gradual optimization of established therapeutic principles should not be disregarded.In the case of progestins, the fact that each compound has its own, specific profile may allow to study the therapeutic relevance of the various signal cascades influenced by their receptors.Using the example of the progestin dienogest, the different genomic and non-genomic mechanisms of action are discussed. It is pharmacodynamic profile is unique compared to other progestins.In light of the emerging multitude of pathomechanisms in endometriosis, a monotherapy may not be possible, and then the search for broad spectrum compounds or combination therapies with dual or multiple mode of action in a clinically relevant dose range might be considered. The progestogenic action may greatly benefit from, by way of example, additional anti-inflammatory and/or anti-fibrotic and/or pro-apoptotic activities. Such a strategy could lead to new drug classes.
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22
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Long Noncoding RNAs Involved in the Endocrine Therapy Resistance of Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061424. [PMID: 32486413 PMCID: PMC7353012 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are defined as RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides that do not encode proteins. Recent studies have demonstrated that numerous lncRNAs are expressed in humans and play key roles in the development of various types of cancers. Intriguingly, some lncRNAs have been demonstrated to be involved in endocrine therapy resistance for breast cancer through their own mechanisms, suggesting that lncRNAs could be promising new biomarkers and therapeutic targets of breast cancer. Here, we summarize the functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs related to the endocrine therapy resistance of breast cancer.
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23
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Roles of Splicing Factors in Hormone-Related Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051551. [PMID: 32106418 PMCID: PMC7084890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Splicing of mRNA precursor (pre-mRNA) is a mechanism to generate multiple mRNA isoforms from a single pre-mRNA, and it plays an essential role in a variety of biological phenomena and diseases such as cancers. Previous studies have demonstrated that cancer-specific splicing events are involved in various aspects of cancers such as proliferation, migration and response to hormones, suggesting that splicing-targeting therapy can be promising as a new strategy for cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on the splicing regulation by RNA-binding proteins including Drosophila behavior/human splicing (DBHS) family proteins, serine/arginine-rich (SR) proteins and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) in hormone-related cancers, such as breast and prostate cancers.
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Progesterone signaling in myometrial cells: role in human pregnancy and parturition. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2019.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Brown MA, Su MA. An Inconvenient Variable: Sex Hormones and Their Impact on T Cell Responses. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 202:1927-1933. [PMID: 30885988 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1801403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic data demonstrate sex differences in autoimmune diseases, immune responses against infection, and antitumor immunity, and accumulating evidence suggests a major role for sex hormones in mediating these differences. In this study, we review recent advances in understanding how sex hormones regulate T cell responses to alter susceptibility to autoimmunity. Although sex hormones can directly alter gene transcriptional programs of T cells, we focus in this study on how sex hormones alter T cell development and function through their effects on thymic stromal cells and innate cell types. In addition to contributing to our understanding of sex differences, these findings also have implications for the therapeutic use of sex hormones and sex hormone modulators, which are now being prescribed to increasing numbers of patients for a wide variety of indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Brown
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Maureen A Su
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095; and .,Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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Rigalli JP, Tocchetti GN, Weiss J. Modulation of ABC Transporters by Nuclear Receptors: Physiological, Pathological and Pharmacological Aspects. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1079-1112. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867324666170920141707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
ABC transporters are membrane proteins mediating the efflux of endo- and xenobiotics. Transporter expression is not static but instead is subject to a dynamic modulation aiming at responding to changes in the internal environment and thus at maintaining homeostatic conditions. Nuclear receptors are ligand modulated transcription factors that get activated upon changes in the intracellular concentrations of the respective agonists and bind to response elements within the promoter of ABC transporters, thus modulating their expression and, consequently, their activity. This review compiles information about transporter regulation by nuclear receptors classified according to the perpetrator compounds and the biological effects resulting from the regulation. Modulation by hormone receptors is involved in maintaining endocrine homeostasis and may also lead to an altered efflux of other substrates in cases of altered hormonal levels. Xenobiotic receptors play a key role in limiting the accumulation of potentially harmful compounds. In addition, their frequent activation by therapeutic agents makes them common molecular elements mediating drug-drug interactions and cancer multidrug resistance. Finally, lipid and retinoid receptors are usually activated by endogenous molecules, thus sensing metabolic changes and inducing ABC transporters to counteract potential alterations. Furthermore, the axis nuclear receptor-ABC transporter constitutes a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of several disease states like cancer, atherosclerosis and dyslipidemia. In the current work, we summarize the information available on the pharmacological potential of nuclear receptor modulators and discuss their applicability in the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Rigalli
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology. University of Heidelberg. Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guillermo Nicolás Tocchetti
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology. University of Heidelberg. Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Weiss
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology. University of Heidelberg. Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Mesiano SA, Peters GA, Amini P, Wilson RA, Tochtrop GP, van Den Akker F. Progestin therapy to prevent preterm birth: History and effectiveness of current strategies and development of novel approaches. Placenta 2019; 79:46-52. [PMID: 30745115 PMCID: PMC6766339 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In the 1930s the "progestin" hormone produced by the corpus luteum was isolated and found to be a Δ4-keto-steroid. It was aptly named progesterone (P4) and in the following 30 years the capacity of P4 and derivatives to prevent preterm birth (PTB) was examined. Outcomes of multiple small studies suggested that progestin prophylaxis beginning at mid-gestation decreases the risk for PTB. Subsequent larger trials found that prophylaxis with weekly intramuscular injections of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17HPC) beginning at mid-gestation decreased PTB risk in women with a history of PTB. Other trials found that daily vaginal P4 prophylaxis, also beginning at mid-gestation decreased PTB risk in women with a short cervix. Currently, prophylaxis with 17HPC (in women with a history of PTB) or vaginal P4 (in women with a short cervix) are used to prevent PTB. Recent advances in understanding the molecular biology of P4 signaling in uterine cells is revealing novel progestin-based targets for PTB prevention. One possibility is to use selective P4 receptor (PR) modulators (SPRMs) to boost PR anti-inflammatory activity that blocks labor, while simultaneously preventing PR phosphorylation that causes loss of P4/PR anti-inflammatory activity. This may be achieved by SPRMs that induce a specific PR conformation that prevents site-specific serine phosphorylation that inhibits anti-inflammatory activity. Further advances in understanding how P4 promotes uterine quiescence and how its labor blocking actions are withdrawn to trigger parturition will reveal novel therapeutic targets to more effectively prevent PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam A Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Gregory A Peters
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peyvand Amini
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rachel A Wilson
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gregory P Tochtrop
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Focco van Den Akker
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Shah NM, Lai PF, Imami N, Johnson MR. Progesterone-Related Immune Modulation of Pregnancy and Labor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:198. [PMID: 30984115 PMCID: PMC6449726 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy involves a complex interplay between maternal neuroendocrine and immunological systems in order to establish and sustain a growing fetus. It is thought that the uterus at pregnancy transitions from quiescent to laboring state in response to interactions between maternal and fetal systems at least partly via altered neuroendocrine signaling. Progesterone (P4) is a vital hormone in maternal reproductive tissues and immune cells during pregnancy. As such, P4 is widely used in clinical interventions to improve the chance of embryo implantation, as well as reduce the risk of miscarriage and premature labor. Here we review research to date that focus on the pathways through which P4 mediates its actions on both the maternal reproductive and immune system. We will dissect the role of P4 as a modulator of inflammation, both systemic and intrinsic to the uterus, during human pregnancy and labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishel M. Shah
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pei F. Lai
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nesrina Imami
- Department of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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DeBono A, Thomas DR, Lundberg L, Pinkham C, Cao Y, Graham JD, Clarke CL, Wagstaff KM, Shechter S, Kehn-Hall K, Jans DA. Novel RU486 (mifepristone) analogues with increased activity against Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus but reduced progesterone receptor antagonistic activity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2634. [PMID: 30796232 PMCID: PMC6385310 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-38671-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There are currently no therapeutics to treat infection with the alphavirus Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), which causes flu-like symptoms leading to neurological symptoms in up to 14% of cases. Large outbreaks of VEEV can result in 10,000 s of human cases and mass equine death. We previously showed that mifepristone (RU486) has anti-VEEV activity (EC50 = 20 μM) and only limited cytotoxicity (CC50 > 100 μM), but a limitation in its use is its abortifacient activity resulting from its ability to antagonize the progesterone receptor (PR). Here we generate a suite of new mifepristone analogues with enhanced antiviral properties, succeeding in achieving >11-fold improvement in anti-VEEV activity with no detectable increase in toxicity. Importantly, we were able to derive a lead compound with an EC50 of 7.2 µM and no detectable PR antagonism activity. Finally, based on our SAR analysis we propose avenues for the further development of these analogues as safe and effective anti-VEEV agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron DeBono
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - David R Thomas
- Nuclear Signaling Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lindsay Lundberg
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Chelsea Pinkham
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Ying Cao
- Centre for Cancer Research, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - J Dinny Graham
- Centre for Cancer Research, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Christine L Clarke
- Centre for Cancer Research, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Kylie M Wagstaff
- Nuclear Signaling Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Kylene Kehn-Hall
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - David A Jans
- Nuclear Signaling Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Ilicic M, Zakar T, Paul JW. Epigenetic regulation of progesterone receptors and the onset of labour. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1035-1048. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy by promoting myometrial quiescence. The withdrawal of progesterone action signals the end of pregnancy and, in most mammalian species, this is achieved by a rapid fall in progesterone concentrations. However, in humans circulating progesterone concentrations remain high up to and during labour. Efforts to understand this phenomenon led to the ‘functional progesterone withdrawal’ hypothesis, whereby the pro-gestation actions of progesterone are withdrawn, despite circulating concentrations remaining elevated. The exact mechanism of functional progesterone withdrawal is still unclear and in recent years has been the focus of intense research. Emerging evidence now indicates that epigenetic regulation of progesterone receptor isoform expression may be the crucial mechanism by which functional progesterone withdrawal is achieved, effectively precipitating human labour despite high concentrations of circulating progesterone. This review examines current evidence that epigenetic mechanisms play a role in determining whether the pro-gestation or pro-contractile isoform of the progesterone receptor is expressed in the pregnant human uterus. We explore the mechanism by which these epigenetic modifications are achieved and, importantly, how these underlying epigenetic mechanisms are influenced by known regulators of uterine physiology, such as prostaglandins and oestrogens, in order to phenotypically transform the pregnant uterus and initiate labour.
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Boonyaratanakornkit V, Hamilton N, Márquez-Garbán DC, Pateetin P, McGowan EM, Pietras RJ. Extranuclear signaling by sex steroid receptors and clinical implications in breast cancer. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 466:51-72. [PMID: 29146555 PMCID: PMC5878997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen and progesterone play essential roles in the development and progression of breast cancer. Over 70% of breast cancers express estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), emphasizing the need for better understanding of ER and PR signaling. ER and PR are traditionally viewed as transcription factors that directly bind DNA to regulate gene networks. In addition to nuclear signaling, ER and PR mediate hormone-induced, rapid extranuclear signaling at the cell membrane or in the cytoplasm which triggers downstream signaling to regulate rapid or extended cellular responses. Specialized membrane and cytoplasmic proteins may also initiate hormone-induced extranuclear signaling. Rapid extranuclear signaling converges with its nuclear counterpart to amplify ER/PR transcription and specify gene regulatory networks. This review summarizes current understanding and updates on ER and PR extranuclear signaling. Further investigation of ER/PR extranuclear signaling may lead to development of novel targeted therapeutics for breast cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viroj Boonyaratanakornkit
- Department of Clinical Chemistry Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Age-related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Graduate Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Nalo Hamilton
- UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Diana C Márquez-Garbán
- UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Prangwan Pateetin
- Graduate Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Eileen M McGowan
- Chronic Disease Solutions Team, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, 2007, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard J Pietras
- UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Dossat AM, Wright KN, Strong CE, Kabbaj M. Behavioral and biochemical sensitivity to low doses of ketamine: Influence of estrous cycle in C57BL/6 mice. Neuropharmacology 2018; 130:30-41. [PMID: 29175352 PMCID: PMC5749639 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Low-dose ketamine is a rapid-acting antidepressant, to which female rodents are more sensitive as compared to males. However, the mechanism mediating this sex difference in ketamine sensitivity remains elusive. OBJECTIVES We sought to determine whether male and female mice differ in their behavioral sensitivity to low doses of ketamine, and uncover how ovarian hormones influence females' ketamine sensitivity. We also aimed to uncover some of the molecular mechanism(s) in mood-related brain regions that mediate sex differences in ketamine antidepressant effects. METHODS Male and female mice (freely-cycling, diestrus 1 [D1], proestrus [Pro], or D1 treated with an estrogen receptor (ER) α, ERβ, or progesterone receptor (PR) agonist) received ketamine (0, 1.5, or 3 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) and were tested in the forced swim test (FST) 30 min later. Ketamine's influence over synaptic plasticity markers in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HPC) of males, D1, and Pro females was quantified by Western blot 1 h post-treatment. RESULTS Males, freely cycling females, D1 and Pro females exhibited antidepressant-like responses to 3 mg/kg ketamine. Pro females were the only group where ketamine exhibited an antidepressant effect at 1.5 mg/kg. D1 females treated with an agonist for ERα or ERβ exhibited an antidepressant-like response to 1.5 mg/kg ketamine. Ketamine (3 mg/kg) increased synaptic plasticity-related proteins in the PFC and HPC of males, D1, and Pro females. Yet, Pro females exhibited an increase in p-Akt and p-CaMKIIα in response to 1.5 and 3 mg/kg ketamine. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that females' enhanced sensitivity to ketamine during Pro is likely mediated through estradiol acting on ERα and ERβ, leading to greater activation of synaptic plasticity-related kinases within the PFC and HPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Dossat
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States
| | - Katherine N Wright
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States
| | - Caroline E Strong
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States
| | - Mohamed Kabbaj
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States.
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A Research of Soft Tissue Lipoma Genesis Factor With Immunohistochemical Analysis. J Craniofac Surg 2018; 28:871-876. [PMID: 28212122 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000003559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lipoma is the most familiar soft-tissue tumor. But the etiology of lipoma remains imprecise. Sex steroid hormones such as estrogen have effects on muscle and adipose tissue development. There is now significant evidence that sex steroids are involved in the site specificities of adipose tissue metabolism. This association of adipose tissue metabolism between sex steroid hormones suggests a possible role for sex steroids in the pathogenesis of lipoma. METHODS To investigate this concept, the authors evaluated the expression of the estrogen receptor (ER) and the progesterone receptor (PR) in soft tissue lipoma in this study.In addition, angiogenesis and the production of angiogenic factors are fundamental for tumor progression in the form of growth, invasion, and metastasis. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is involved in a signaling cascade that influences proliferation and other tumor-promoting activities. In this respect, the authors tried to define the correlation of soft tissue lipoma tumor cell and specific 2 immunohistologic markers, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and EGFR.The study population included patients who diagnosed with soft tissue lipoma, 20 independent patients were selected. All specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. All slides were examined by a pathologist under a microscope. ER, PR, VEGF, and EGFR expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. RESULT ER, PR, and EGFR of tumor cell had significantly more negative than positive. And VEGF of tumor cell had significantly more positive than negative. There was no significantly difference between site of tumor and immunohistochemical stain. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION There are only a few studies for ER and PR in soft tissue related tumors. The authors estimated that the abnormal local proliferation and accumulation of adipocyte in soft tissue lipoma is related to sex steroid hormone action, especially estrogen and progesterone. But ER and PR of tumor cell had significantly more negative than positive in this study. The authors concluded that estrogen and progesterone are not impact factor of pathogenesis of soft tissue lipoma. Vascular endothelial growth factor of tumor cell had significantly more positive than negative. Angiogenesis is an essential factor for tumor growth. The VEGF expression of soft tissue lipoma can be understood in the same context. The authors need more study to reveal an association between lipoma and EGFR, because some patients of lipoma were positive to EGFR in this study.
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Loiseau C, Cayetanot F, Joubert F, Perrin-Terrin AS, Cardot P, Fiamma MN, Frugiere A, Straus C, Bodineau L. Current Perspectives for the use of Gonane Progesteronergic Drugs in the Treatment of Central Hypoventilation Syndromes. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1433-1454. [PMID: 28721821 PMCID: PMC6295933 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170719104605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central alveolar hypoventilation syndromes (CHS) encompass neurorespiratory diseases resulting from congenital or acquired neurological disorders. Hypercapnia, acidosis, and hypoxemia resulting from CHS negatively affect physiological functions and can be lifethreatening. To date, the absence of pharmacological treatment implies that the patients must receive assisted ventilation throughout their lives. OBJECTIVE To highlight the relevance of determining conditions in which using gonane synthetic progestins could be of potential clinical interest for the treatment of CHS. METHODS The mechanisms by which gonanes modulate the respiratory drive were put into the context of those established for natural progesterone and other synthetic progestins. RESULTS The clinical benefits of synthetic progestins to treat respiratory diseases are mixed with either positive outcomes or no improvement. A benefit for CHS patients has only recently been proposed. We incidentally observed restoration of CO2 chemosensitivity, the functional deficit of this disease, in two adult CHS women by desogestrel, a gonane progestin, used for contraception. This effect was not observed by another group, studying a single patient. These contradictory findings are probably due to the complex nature of the action of desogestrel on breathing and led us to carry out mechanistic studies in rodents. Our results show that desogestrel influences the respiratory command by modulating the GABAA and NMDA signaling in the respiratory network, medullary serotoninergic systems, and supramedullary areas. CONCLUSION Gonanes show promise for improving ventilation of CHS patients, although the conditions of their use need to be better understood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Laurence Bodineau
- Address correspondence to this author at the Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06, INSERM, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, F-75013, Paris, France; Tel: 33 1 40 77 97 15; Fax: 33 1 40 77 97 89; E-mail:
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Courtoy GE, Donnez J, Marbaix E, Barreira M, Luyckx M, Dolmans MM. Progesterone Receptor Isoforms, Nuclear Corepressor-1 and Steroid Receptor Coactivator-1 and B-Cell Lymphoma 2 and Akt and Akt Phosphorylation Status in Uterine Myomas after Ulipristal Acetate Treatment: A Systematic Immunohistochemical Evaluation. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2017; 83:443-454. [PMID: 29227976 DOI: 10.1159/000480011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether ulipristal acetate (UPA) treatment modifies the expression of progesterone receptor (PR), its nuclear cofactors steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC1) and nuclear corepressor-1 (NCoR1), prosurvival factor B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), and Akt in uterine myomas. PATIENTS Prospective study of 59 women with symptomatic myomas undergoing myomectomy. Forty-two patients were treated preoperatively with UPA; the remaining 17 were not and they served as controls. METHOD Tissue microarrays were obtained from surgical specimens and immunohistochemistry was performed. Blinded quantification of expression of PR (PR-A vs. PR-B), coactivator SRC1 and corepressor NCoR1, and prosurvival factor Bcl-2, and Akt and evaluation of Akt phosphorylation levels. RESULTS Compared with the control group, UPA does not alter PR protein levels or expression patterns in myomas, and the PR-A/PR-B ratio was similar, as well as cytoplasmic or nuclear expression of cofactors SRC1 and NCoR1. Bcl-2 was heterogeneously expressed throughout the samples and no significant modification in expression was evidenced. No significant difference was found in Akt expression and phosphorylation between treated and untreated myomas. CONCLUSION This study did not find any significant change in the expression of the studied factors in myomas after UPA exposure. In conclusion, various theories on myomas cells proposed on the basis of in vitro studies are not supported in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume E Courtoy
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour L'Infertilité (SRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Etienne Marbaix
- Department of Pathology, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium.,Cell Biology Unit, de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Matilde Barreira
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Luyckx
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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A Research of Pyogenic Granuloma Genesis Factor With Immunohistochemical Analysis. J Craniofac Surg 2017; 28:2068-2072. [DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000004148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Zhang LY, Mi H, Yan JK, Yan XX, Yang L. Pregnancy-associated changes in expression of progesterone receptor and progesterone-induced blocking factor genes in bone marrow of ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 186:77-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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The Progestin Receptor Interactome in the Female Mouse Hypothalamus: Interactions with Synaptic Proteins Are Isoform Specific and Ligand Dependent. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0272-17. [PMID: 28955722 PMCID: PMC5605756 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0272-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Progestins bind to the progestin receptor (PR) isoforms, PR-A and PR-B, in brain to influence development, female reproduction, anxiety, and stress. Hormone-activated PRs associate with multiple proteins to form functional complexes. In the present study, proteins from female mouse hypothalamus that associate with PR were isolated using affinity pull-down assays with glutathione S-transferase–tagged mouse PR-A and PR-B. Using complementary proteomics approaches, reverse phase protein array (RPPA) and mass spectrometry, we identified hypothalamic proteins that interact with PR in a ligand-dependent and isoform-specific manner and were confirmed by Western blot. Synaptic proteins, including synapsin-I and synapsin-II, interacted with agonist-bound PR isoforms, suggesting that both isoforms function in synaptic plasticity. In further support, synaptogyrin-III and synapsin-III associated with PR-A and PR-B, respectively. PR also interacted with kinases, including c-Src, mTOR, and MAPK1, confirming phosphorylation as an integral process in rapid effects of PR in the brain. Consistent with a role in transcriptional regulation, PR associated with transcription factors and coactivators in a ligand-specific and isoform-dependent manner. Interestingly, both PR isoforms associated with a key regulator of energy homeostasis, FoxO1, suggesting a novel role for PR in energy metabolism. Because many identified proteins in this PR interactome are synaptic proteins, we tested the hypothesis that progestins function in synaptic plasticity. Indeed, progesterone enhanced synaptic density, by increasing synapsin-I–positive synapses, in rat primary cortical neuronal cultures. This novel combination of RPPA and mass spectrometry allowed identification of PR action in synaptic remodeling and energy homeostasis and reveals unique roles for progestins in brain function and disease.
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Salsano S, Quiñonero A, Pérez S, Garrido Gómez T, Simón C, Dominguez F. Dynamic expression of PGRMC1 and SERBP1 in human endometrium: an implication in the human decidualization process. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:832-842.e1. [PMID: 28911927 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.07.1163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize PGRMC1 and SERBP1 in human endometrium and to investigate the putative role of PGRMC1 in endometrial decidualization. DESIGN The PGRMC1 and SERBP1 expression in human endometrium was determined throughout the menstrual cycle. We analyzed the colocalization of PGRMC1 and SERBP1. Then, endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were isolated to investigate the functional effect of PGRMC1 overexpression on decidualization. SETTING IVI clinic. PATIENT(S) Endometrial biopsies were collected from fertile volunteers (n = 61) attending the clinic as ovum donors. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial samples of 61 healthy fertile women. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) In vivo localization of PGRMC1 and SERBP1 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The PGRMC1/SERBP1 colocalization was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Decidualization effect of PGRMC1 overexpression was evaluated in primary ESC cultures. RESULT(S) The PGRMC1 was detected in the endometrial stroma throughout the menstrual cycle, but decreased in the late secretory phase. The SERBP1 immunostaining was present in stroma and increased in the entire the menstrual cycle. The PGRMC1 and SERBP1 colocalized in the cytoplasmic fractions of nondecidualized and decidualized ESC. The PGRMC1 overexpression significantly inhibited in vitro decidualization. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest that classic P receptors (PRs) are not the only kind playing a role in the normal physiology of the endometrium. The human decidualization process could be altered by the overexpression or mislocalization of PGRMC1 in ESC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Salsano
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alicia Quiñonero
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain
| | - Silvia Pérez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain
| | - Tamara Garrido Gómez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain; Igenomix Academy, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simón
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain; INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain; Igenomix Academy, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), Valencia, Spain; INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain.
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Eukaryotic transcription factors: paradigms of protein intrinsic disorder. Biochem J 2017; 474:2509-2532. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gene-specific transcription factors (TFs) are key regulatory components of signaling pathways, controlling, for example, cell growth, development, and stress responses. Their biological functions are determined by their molecular structures, as exemplified by their structured DNA-binding domains targeting specific cis-acting elements in genes, and by the significant lack of fixed tertiary structure in their extensive intrinsically disordered regions. Recent research in protein intrinsic disorder (ID) has changed our understanding of transcriptional activation domains from ‘negative noodles’ to ID regions with function-related, short sequence motifs and molecular recognition features with structural propensities. This review focuses on molecular aspects of TFs, which represent paradigms of ID-related features. Through specific examples, we review how the ID-associated flexibility of TFs enables them to participate in large interactomes, how they use only a few hydrophobic residues, short sequence motifs, prestructured motifs, and coupled folding and binding for their interactions with co-activators, and how their accessibility to post-translational modification affects their interactions. It is furthermore emphasized how classic biochemical concepts like allostery, conformational selection, induced fit, and feedback regulation are undergoing a revival with the appreciation of ID. The review also describes the most recent advances based on computational simulations of ID-based interaction mechanisms and structural analysis of ID in the context of full-length TFs and suggests future directions for research in TF ID.
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Zheng L, Lin VC, Mu Y. Exploring Flexibility of Progesterone Receptor Ligand Binding Domain Using Molecular Dynamics. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165824. [PMID: 27824891 PMCID: PMC5100906 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone receptor (PR), a member of nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily, plays a vital role for female reproductive tissue development, differentiation and maintenance. PR ligand, such as progesterone, induces conformation changes in PR ligand binding domain (LBD), thus mediates subsequent gene regulation cascades. PR LBD may adopt different conformations upon an agonist or an antagonist binding. These different conformations would trigger distinct transcription events. Therefore, the dynamics of PR LBD would be of general interest to biologists for a deep understanding of its structure-function relationship. However, no apo-form (non-ligand bound) of PR LBD model has been proposed either by experiments or computational methods so far. In this study, we explored the structural dynamics of PR LBD using molecular dynamics simulations and advanced sampling tools in both ligand-bound and the apo-forms. Resolved by the simulation study, helix 11, helix 12 and loop 895–908 (the loop between these two helices) are quite flexible in antagonistic conformation. Several residues, such as Arg899 and Glu723, could form salt-bridging interaction between helix 11 and helix 3, and are important for the PR LBD dynamics. And we also propose that helix 12 in apo-form PR LBD, not like other NR LBDs, such as human estrogen receptor α (ERα) LBD, may not adopt a totally extended conformation. With the aid of umbrella sampling and metadynamics simulations, several stable conformations of apo-form PR LBD have been sampled, which may work as critical structural models for further large scale virtual screening study to discover novel PR ligands for therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangzhen Zheng
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Valerie Chunling Lin
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Yuguang Mu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
- * E-mail:
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Valadez-Cosmes P, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Cerbón M, Camacho-Arroyo I. Membrane progesterone receptors in reproduction and cancer. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 434:166-75. [PMID: 27368976 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is a sexual steroid hormone that has a critical role in reproductive processes in males and females of several species, including humans. Furthermore, progesterone has been associated with pathological diseases such as breast, gynecological and brain cancer, regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. In the past, progesterone actions were thought to be only mediated by its intracellular receptor (PR). However, recent evidence has demonstrated that membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) mediate most of the non-classical progesterone actions. The role of the different mPRs subtypes in progesterone effects in reproduction and cancer is an emerging and exciting research area. Here we review studies to date regarding mPRs role in reproduction and cancer and discuss their functions and clinical relevance, suggesting mPRs as putative pharmacological targets and disease markers in cancer and diseases associated with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Valadez-Cosmes
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Vargas-Pinilla P, Babb P, Nunes L, Paré P, Rosa G, Felkl A, Longo D, Salzano FM, Paixão-Côrtes VR, Gonçalves GL, Bortolini MC. Progesterone Response Element Variation in the OXTR Promoter Region and Paternal Care in New World Monkeys. Behav Genet 2016; 47:77-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s10519-016-9806-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Rossetti MF, Cambiasso MJ, Holschbach MA, Cabrera R. Oestrogens and Progestagens: Synthesis and Action in the Brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28. [PMID: 27306650 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
When steroids, such as pregnenolone, progesterone and oestrogen, are synthesised de novo in neural tissues, they are more specifically referred to as neurosteroids. These neurosteroids bind specific receptors to promote essential brain functions. Pregnenolone supports cognition and protects mouse hippocampal cells against glutamate and amyloid peptide-induced cell death. Progesterone promotes myelination, spinogenesis, synaptogenesis, neuronal survival and dendritic growth. Allopregnanolone increases hippocampal neurogenesis, neuronal survival and cognitive functions. Oestrogens, such as oestradiol, regulate synaptic plasticity, reproductive behaviour, aggressive behaviour and learning. In addition, neurosteroids are neuroprotective in animal models of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, brain injury and ageing. Using in situ hybridisation and/or immunohistochemistry, steroidogenic enzymes, including cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-Δ4 isomerase, cytochrome P450arom, steroid 5α-reductase and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, have been detected in numerous brain regions, including the hippocampus, hypothalamus and cerebral cortex. In the present review, we summarise some of the studies related to the synthesis and function of oestrogens and progestagens in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Rossetti
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, CONICET-Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M J Cambiasso
- Instituto de Investigación Médica Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra, INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Bucal, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M A Holschbach
- Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - R Cabrera
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, INBIOMED-IMBECU-CONICET, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
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Progesterone receptor (PR) polyproline domain (PPD) mediates inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in non-small cell lung cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2016; 374:279-91. [PMID: 26892043 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence has suggested a possible role for progesterone receptor (PR) in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, little is known concerning roles of PR in NSCLC. PR contains a polyproline domain (PPD), which directly binds to the SH3 domain of signaling molecules. Because PPD-SH3 interactions are essential for EGFR signaling, we hypothesized that the presence of PR-PPD interfered with EGFR-mediated signaling and cell proliferation. We examined the role of PR-PPD in cell proliferation and signaling by stably expressing PR-B, or PR-B with disrupting mutations in the PPD (PR-BΔSH3), from a tetracycline-regulated promoter in A549 NSCLC cells. PR-B dose-dependently inhibited cell growth in the absence of ligand, and progestin (R5020) treatment further suppressed the growth. Treatment with RU486 abolished PR-B- and R5020-mediated inhibition of cell proliferation. Expression of PR-BΔSH3 and treatment with R5020 or RU486 had no effect on cell proliferation. Furthermore, PR-B expression but not PR-BΔSH3 expression reduced EGF-induced A549 proliferation and activation of ERK1/2, in the absence of ligand. Taken together, our data demonstrated the significance of PR extranuclear signaling through PPD interactions in EGFR-mediated proliferation and signaling in NSCLC.
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Georgiadou D, Sergentanis TN, Sakellariou S, Vlachodimitropoulos D, Psaltopoulou T, Lazaris AC, Gounaris A, Zografos GC. Prognostic role of sex steroid receptors in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2016; 212:38-43. [PMID: 26652605 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2015.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 10/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
From the available literature, it is unclear what proportion of pancreatic adenocarcinomas express estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ), progesterone receptors (PR), and androgen receptors (AR), and if any of these markers have prognostic significance. We aimed to assess (1) the expression and (2) the correlation of the aforementioned markers with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. During a five-year period, 60 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma underwent surgical resection at a single institution. Immunohistochemical stains of the studied markers were quantified by Image analysis system. ERα expression was positively associated with PR expression. Moreover, ERβ was inversely associated with the presence of metastases, whereas no significant associations implicated AR. As far as the prognostic significance of the studied receptors is concerned, higher ERα expression correlated with poorer survival at the univariate analysis, but the finding dissipated at the multivariate approach. No significant associations with overall survival were noted regarding the other receptors. The role of sex hormone receptors in the survival from pancreatic adenocarcinoma seems rather limited. Further prospective studies assessing those receptors should ideally be designed in order to confirm our results and possibly outline additional correlations between other steroid receptors and features of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Georgiadou
- 3rd Surgical Clinic of George Gennimatas General Hospital, Mesogeion Ave 154, 156 69 Athens, Greece.
| | - Theodoros N Sergentanis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, University of Athens, M. Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, 11527, Greece
| | - Stratigoula Sakellariou
- Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Vlachodimitropoulos
- Department of Forensic Pathology and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodora Psaltopoulou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, University of Athens, M. Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, 11527, Greece
| | - Andreas C Lazaris
- Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Antonia Gounaris
- Research Center, Hellenic Anticancer Institute, 11 Valtetsiou St., Athens 10680, Greece Athens, Greece
| | - George C Zografos
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, Hippokratio Hospital, Vassilissis Sophias Avenue 114, 115 27 Athens, Greece
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Abstract
Steroid hormones have been in use for more than a half a century as contraceptive agents, and only now are researchers elucidating the biochemical mechanisms of action and non-target effects. Progesterone and synthetic progestins, critical for women's health in the US and internationally, appear to have important effects on immune functioning and other diverse systems. Apart from the contraceptive world is a separate field that is devoted to understanding progesterone in other contexts. Based on research following a development timeline parallel to hormonal contraception, progesterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate are now administered to prevent preterm birth in high-risk pregnant women. Preterm birth researchers are similarly working to determine the precise biochemical actions and immunological effects of progesterone. Progesterone research in both areas could benefit from increased collaboration and bringing these two bodies of literature together. Progesterone, through actions on various hormone receptors, has lifelong importance in different organ systems and researchers have much to learn about this molecule from the combination of existing literatures, and from future studies that build on this combined knowledge base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Micks
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Washington, Box 356460, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington, USADepartment of ResearchAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Greta B Raglan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Washington, Box 356460, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington, USADepartment of ResearchAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jay Schulkin
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Washington, Box 356460, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington, USADepartment of ResearchAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Washington, Box 356460, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington, USADepartment of ResearchAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Li Z, Langhans SA. Transcriptional regulators of Na,K-ATPase subunits. Front Cell Dev Biol 2015; 3:66. [PMID: 26579519 PMCID: PMC4620432 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2015.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Na,K-ATPase classically serves as an ion pump creating an electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane that is essential for transepithelial transport, nutrient uptake and membrane potential. In addition, Na,K-ATPase also functions as a receptor, a signal transducer and a cell adhesion molecule. With such diverse roles, it is understandable that the Na,K-ATPase subunits, the catalytic α-subunit, the β-subunit and the FXYD proteins, are controlled extensively during development and to accommodate physiological needs. The spatial and temporal expression of Na,K-ATPase is partially regulated at the transcriptional level. Numerous transcription factors, hormones, growth factors, lipids, and extracellular stimuli modulate the transcription of the Na,K-ATPase subunits. Moreover, epigenetic mechanisms also contribute to the regulation of Na,K-ATPase expression. With the ever growing knowledge about diseases associated with the malfunction of Na,K-ATPase, this review aims at summarizing the best-characterized transcription regulators that modulate Na,K-ATPase subunit levels. As abnormal expression of Na,K-ATPase subunits has been observed in many carcinoma, we will also discuss transcription factors that are associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a crucial step in the progression of many tumors to malignant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqin Li
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children Wilmington, DE, USA
| | - Sigrid A Langhans
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children Wilmington, DE, USA
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Courtoy GE, Donnez J, Marbaix E, Dolmans MM. In vivo mechanisms of uterine myoma volume reduction with ulipristal acetate treatment. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:426-34.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Sueldo C, Liu X, Peluso JJ. Progestin and AdipoQ Receptor 7, Progesterone Membrane Receptor Component 1 (PGRMC1), and PGRMC2 and Their Role in Regulating Progesterone's Ability to Suppress Human Granulosa/Luteal Cells from Entering into the Cell Cycle. Biol Reprod 2015. [PMID: 26203174 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.131508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The present studies were designed to determine the role of progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), PGRMC2, progestin and adipoQ receptor 7 (PAQR7), and progesterone receptor (PGR) in mediating the antimitotic action of progesterone (P4) in human granulosa/luteal cells. For these studies granulosa/luteal cells of 10 women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation were isolated, maintained in culture, and depleted of PGRMC1, PGRMC2, PAQR7, or PGR by siRNA treatment. The rate of entry into the cell cycle was assessed using the FUCCI cell cycle sensor to determine the percentage of cells in the G1/S stage of the cell cycle. PGRMC1, PGRMC2, PAQR7, and PGR mRNA levels were assessed by real-time PCR and their interactions monitored by in situ proximity ligation assays (PLAs). These studies revealed that PGRMC1, PGRMC2, PAQR7, and PGR were expressed by granulosa/luteal cells from all patients, with PGRMC1 mRNA being most abundant, followed by PAQR7, PGRMC2, and PGR. However, their mRNA levels showed considerable patient variation. P4's ability to suppress entry into the cell cycle was dependent on PGRMC1, PGRMC2, and PAQR7 but not PGR. Moreover, PLAs indicated that PGRMC1, PGRMC2, and PAQR7 formed a complex within the cytoplasm. Based on these studies, it is proposed that these three P4 mediators form a complex within the cytoplasm that is required for P4's action. Moreover, P4's ability to regulate human follicle development may be dependent in part on the expression levels of each of these P4 mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Sueldo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UCONN Health, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Xiufang Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, UCONN Health, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UCONN Health, Farmington, Connecticut Department of Cell Biology, UCONN Health, Farmington, Connecticut
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