Characterization of a pituitary GnRH-receptor from a perciform fish, Morone saxatilis: functional expression in a fish cell line

The gonadotropin-releasing hormones: Lessons from fish

Fish have been of paramount importance to our understanding of vertebrate comparative neuroendocrinology and the mechanisms underlying the physiology and evolution of gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH) and their genes. This review integrates past and recent knowledge on the Gnrh system in the fish model. Multiple Gnrh isoforms (two or three forms) are present in all teleosts, as well as multiple Gnrh receptors (up to five types), which differ in neuroanatomical localization, pattern of projections, ontogeny and functions. The role of the different Gnrh forms in reproduction seems to also differ in teleost models possessing two versus three Gnrh forms, Gnrh3 being the main hypophysiotropic hormone in the former and Gnrh1 in the latter. Functions of the non-hypothalamic Gnrh isoforms are still unclear, although under suboptimal physiological conditions (e.g. fasting), Gnrh2 may increase in the pituitary to ensure the integrity of reproduction under these conditions. Recent developments in transgenesis and mutagenesis in fish models have permitted the generation of fish lines expressing fluorophores in Gnrh neurons and to elucidate the dynamics of the elaborate innervations of the different neuronal populations, thus enabling a more accurate delineation of their reproductive roles and regulations. Moreover, in combination with neuronal electrophysiology, these lines have clarified the Gnrh mode of actions in modulating Lh and Fsh activities. While loss of function and genome editing studies had the premise to elucidate the exact roles of the multiple Gnrhs in reproduction and other processes, they have instead evoked an ongoing debate about these roles and opened new avenues of research that will no doubt lead to new discoveries regarding the not-yet-fully-understood Gnrh system.

Role of GnRH Isoforms in Paracrine/Autocrine Control of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Spermatogenesis

It is well established that hypothalamic GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) is one of the key peptides involved in the neuroendocrine control of testicular development and spermatogenesis. However, the role of GnRH as a paracrine regulator of testicular function has not been fully investigated. The present study demonstrates the presence of GnRH and its receptors in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) testis, and provides information on direct action of native GnRH isoforms (GnRH2 and GnRH3) on different stages of spermatogenesis in this model. Both GnRH2 and GnRH3 stimulated basal spermatogenesis by increasing numbers of type Aund spermatogonia, spermatozoa, and testosterone release, and in this study GnRH2 exerted higher relative activity than GnRH3. Next, we evaluated the effects of GnRH isoforms on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)- and follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh)-induced spermatogenesis. The 2 GnRH isoforms were found to have different effects on Fsh- and hCG-induced response depending on the stage of spermatogenesis and concentration of the peptides. The results provide strong support for the hypothesis that locally produced GnRH2 and GnRH3 are important components of the complex multifactorial system that regulates testicular germinal cell development and function in adult zebrafish.

Hypothalamic- and pituitary-derived growth and reproductive hormones and the control of energy balance in fish

Most endocrine systems in the body are influenced by the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Within this axis, the hypothalamus delivers precise signals to the pituitary gland, which in turn releases hormones that directly affect target tissues including the liver, thyroid gland, adrenal glands and gonads. This action modulates the release of additional hormones from the sites of action, regulating key physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, stress and reproduction. Pituitary hormones are released by five distinct hormone-producing cell types: somatotropes (which produce growth hormone), thyrotropes (thyrotropin), corticotropes (adrenocorticotropin), lactotropes (prolactin) and gonadotropes (follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone), each modulated by specific hypothalamic signals. This careful and distinct organization of the hypothalamo-pituitary axis has been classically associated with the existence of many lineal axes (e.g., the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis) in charge of the control of the different physiological processes. While this traditional concept is valid, it is becoming apparent that hormones produced by the hypothalamo-pituitary axis have diverse effects. For instance, gonadotropin-releasing hormone II has been associated with a suppressive effect on food intake in fish. Likewise, growth hormone has been shown to influence appetite, swimming activity and aggressive behavior in fish. This review will focus on the hypothalamic and pituitary hormones classically involved in regulating growth and reproduction, and will attempt to provide a general overview of the current knowledge on their actions on energy balance and appetite in fish. It will also give a brief perspective of the role of some of these peptides in integrating feeding, metabolism, growth and reproduction.

Molecular characterization and functional analysis of pituitary GnRH receptor in a commercial scombroid fish, chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus)

The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is essential during pubertal onset, for its regulation of the synthesis and release of pituitary gonadotropins. Its action is mediated by GnRH receptors (GnRHRs) in the pituitary gonadotrophs. Our previous study demonstrated that the chub mackerel brain expresses three GnRH forms (gnrh1, gnrh2, and gnrh3), and that only GnRH1 neurons innervate anterior pituitary regions. Furthermore, chub mackerel gnrh1 mRNA exhibited a significant increase at pubertal onset. The present study aimed to isolate the functional GnRHR form involved in chub mackerel puberty. The open reading frame of our cloned receptor encodes 428 amino acids and contains seven transmembrane domains. Phylogenetic analysis also indicated clustering with other teleost-type IIB GnRHRs, mainly those involved in reproduction. Reporter gene assay results showed that all four synthetic peptides (GnRH1, GnRH2, GnRH3, and GnRH analogue) bind to the cloned receptor. Three deduced GnRH ligands stimulated luteinizing hormone (LH) release from cultured pituitary cells in vitro. Receptor gene expression was mainly detected in the pituitary and showed an increasing trend in the developing gonadal stages of both sexes during the pubertal process; this process was synchronous with previous studies of follicle-stimulating hormone beta (fshβ) and lhβ gene expression in chub mackerel. These results suggest that the cloned receptor is likely involved in the regulation of pubertal onset in this species. Therefore, we have designated the receptor cmGnRHR1.

Neurokinin B regulates reproduction via inhibition of kisspeptin in a teleost, the striped bass

Kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB) are neuropeptides co-expressed in the mammalian hypothalamus and coordinately control GnRH signaling. We have found that Nkb and kisspeptin neurons are distinct in the teleost, striped bass (STB) and capitalized on this phenomenon to study the mode of action of Nkb and its related neuropeptide-F (Nkf), both of which are encoded by the tac3 gene. In vitro brain slices and in vivo administration studies revealed that Nkb/f consistently downregulated kiss2, whereas antagonist (AntD) administration restored this effect. Overall, a minor effect was noted on gnrh1 expression, whereas Gnrh1 content in the pituitaries was reduced after Nkb/f treatment and increased with AntD. Concomitantly, immunostaining demonstrated that hypothalamic Nkb neurons border and densely innervate the largest kiss2 neuronal population in the hypothalamus, which also coexpresses Nkb receptor. No expression of Nkb receptor or Nkb neuronal projections was detected near/in Gnrh1 soma in the preoptic area. At the level of the pituitary, however, the picture was more complex: both Nkb/f and AntD upregulated lhb and fshb expression and Lh secretion in vivo Together with the stimulatory effect of Nkb/f on Lh/Fsh secretion from pituitary cells, in vitro, this may indicate an additional independent action of Nkb/f within the pituitary, in which the hypothalamic pathway is more dominant. The current study demonstrates that Nkb/f utilizes multiple pathways to regulate reproduction in the STB and that in the brain, Nkb mainly acts as a negative modulator of kiss2 to regulate the release of Gnrh1.

Targeted Mutagenesis of the Hypophysiotropic Gnrh3 in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Reveals No Effects on Reproductive Performance

Gnrh is the major neuropeptide regulator of vertebrate reproduction, triggering a cascade of events in the pituitary-gonadal axis that result in reproductive competence. Previous research in mice and humans has demonstrated that Gnrh/GNRH null mutations result in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility. The goal of this study was to eliminate gnrh3 (the hypophysiotropic Gnrh form) function in zebrafish (Danio rerio) to determine how ontogeny and reproductive performance are affected, as well as factors downstream of Gnrh3 along the reproductive axis. Using the TALEN technology, we developed a gnrh3^-/- zebrafish line that harbors a 62 bp deletion in the gnrh3 gene. Our gnrh3^-/- zebrafish line represents the first targeted and heritable mutation of a Gnrh isoform in any organism. Using immunohistochemistry, we verified that gnrh3^-/- fish do not possess Gnrh3 peptide in any regions of the brain. However, other than changes in mRNA levels of pituitary gonadotropin genes (fshb, lhb, and cga) during early development, which are corrected by adulthood, there were no changes in ontogeny and reproduction in gnrh3^-/- fish. The gnrh3^-/- zebrafish are fertile, displaying normal gametogenesis and reproductive performance in males and females. Together with our previous results that Gnrh3 cell ablation causes infertility, these results indicate that a compensatory mechanism is being activated, which is probably primed early on upon Gnrh3 neuron differentiation and possibly confined to Gnrh3 neurons. Potential compensation factors and sensitive windows of time for compensation during development and puberty should be explored.

Kisspeptin Antagonists Reveal Kisspeptin 1 and Kisspeptin 2 Differential Regulation of Reproduction in the Teleost, Morone saxatilis

The importance of kisspeptin in regulating vertebrate reproduction has been well established, but the exact mechanism continues to unfold. Unlike mammals, many lower vertebrates possess a dual kisspeptin system, Kiss1 and Kiss2. To decipher the roles of the kisspeptins in fish, we identified two potential kisspeptin antagonists, pep 234 and pep 359, by screening analogs for their ability to inactivate striped bass Kiss1 and Kiss2 receptors expressed in COS7 cells. Pep 234 (a mammalian KISS1 antagonist) antagonizes Kiss1r signaling activated by Kiss1 and Kiss2, and pep 359 (a novel analog) antagonizes Kiss2 activation of both receptors. In vitro studies using brain slices demonstrated that only Kiss2 can upregulate the expression of the hypophysiotropic gnrh1, which was subsequently diminished by pep 234 and pep 359. In primary pituitary cell cultures, the two antagonists revealed a complex network of putative endogenous and exogenous regulation by kisspeptin. While both kisspeptins stimulate Fsh expression and secretion, Kiss2 predominately induces Lh secretion. Pep 234 and 359 treatment of spawning males hindered sperm production. This effect was accompanied with decreased brain gnrh1 and gnrh2 mRNA levels and peptide content in the pituitary, and increased levels of pituitary Lh, probably due to attenuation of Lh release. Strikingly, the mRNA levels of arginine-vasotocin, the neurons of which in the preoptic area coexpress kiss2r, were dramatically reduced by the antagonists. Our results demonstrate differential actions of Kiss1 and Kiss2 systems along the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and interactions with other neuropeptides, and further reinforce the importance of kisspeptin in the execution of spawning.

The medio-basal hypothalamus as a dynamic and plastic reproduction-related kisspeptin-gnrh-pituitary center in fish

Kisspeptin regulates reproductive events, including puberty and ovulation, primarily via GnRH neurons. Prolonged treatment of prepubertal striped bass females with kisspeptin (Kiss) 1 or Kiss2 peptides failed to enhance puberty but suggested a gnrh-independent pituitary control pathway. Kiss2 inhibited, but Kiss1 stimulated, FShβ expression and gonadal development, although hypophysiotropic gnrh1 and gnrh receptor expression remained unchanged. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry on brains and pituitaries revealed a differential plasticity between the 2 kisspeptin neurons. The differences were most pronounced at the prespawning phase in 2 regions along the path of gnrh1 axons: the nucleus lateralis tuberis (NLT) and the neurohypophysis. Kiss1 neurons appeared in the NLT and innervated the neurohypophysis of prespawning males and females, reaching Lh gonadotropes in the proximal pars distalis. Males, at all reproductive stages, had Kiss2 innervations in the NLT and the neurohypophysis, forming large axonal bundles in the former and intermingling with gnrh1 axons. Unlike in males, only preovulatory females had massive NLT-neurohypophysis staining of kiss2. Kiss2 neurons showed a distinct appearance in the NLT pars ventralis-equivalent region only in spawning zebrafish, indicating that this phenomenon is widespread. These results underscore the NLT as important nuclei for kisspeptin action in 2 facets: 1) kisspeptin-gnrh interaction, both kisspeptins are involved in the regulation of gnrh release, in a stage- and sex-dependent manner, especially at the prespawning phase; and 2) gnrh-independent effect of Kiss peptides on the pituitary, which together with the plastic nature of their neuronal projections to the pituitary implies that a direct gonadotropic regulation is plausible.

Functional significance of GnRH and kisspeptin, and their cognate receptors in teleost reproduction

Guanine nucleotide binding protein (G-protein)-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are eukaryotic transmembrane proteins found in all living organisms. Their versatility and roles in several physiological processes make them the single largest family of drug targets. Comparative genomic studies using various model organisms have provided useful information about target receptors. The similarity of the genetic makeup of teleosts to that of humans and other vertebrates aligns with the study of GPCRs. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) represents a critical step in the reproductive process through its cognate GnRH receptors (GnRHRs). Kisspeptin (Kiss1) and its cognate GPCR, GPR54 (=kisspeptin receptor, Kiss-R), have recently been identified as a critical signaling system in the control of reproduction. The Kiss1/Kiss-R system regulates GnRH release, which is vital to pubertal development and vertebrate reproduction. This review highlights the physiological role of kisspeptin-Kiss-R signaling in the reproductive neuroendocrine axis in teleosts through the modulation of GnRH release. Moreover, we also review the recent developments in GnRHR and Kiss-R with respect to their structural variants, signaling mechanisms, ligand interactions, and functional significance. Finally, we discuss the recent progress in identifying many teleost GnRH-GnRHR and kisspeptin-Kiss-R systems and consider their physiological significance in the control of reproduction.

An attempt to improve the reproductive efficiency of Nile tilapia brood stock fish

A field study was conducted on brood stock Nile tilapia to increase the propagation. Both sexes were individually stocked into Habas (enclosures) in an earthen pond and fed for 19 days on a basal diet supplemented with different additives at graded levels of each (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g Therigon®; 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 g Nuvisol Hatch P®; 20, 40 and 60 mg Gibberellic acid and 700, 900 and 1,100 mg L-carnitine/Kg diet). The obtained results were evaluated, and the best treatment for each sex was chosen for mating. Results indicated that all pretreatments for male and female brood stocks of Nile tilapia positively affected the total count of the offspring produced. Yet, the Haba, in which the females were pretreated with 0.5 g Therigon®/Kg diet and the males pretreated with 700 mg L-carnitine/Kg diet, gave the highest total count of the offspring comparing with the other Habas. But, because of the high feed cost due to the additives cost, 0.5 g Therigon®/kg diet as pretreatment for ♀ only (3rd Haba), 2 g Nuvisol Hatch P®/Kg diet as pretreatment for ♀ only (5th Haba), followed by 0.5 g Therigon® and 700 mg L-carnitine/Kg diet for ♀ and ♂, respectively (4th Haba), respectively were the best economically.

The Highly conserved gonadotropin-releasing hormone-2 form acts as a melatonin-releasing factor in the pineal of a teleost fish, the european sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax

With the exception of modern mammals, most vertebrate species possess two GnRH genes, GnRH-1 and GnRH-2. In addition, in many teleost fish, there is a third gene called GnRH-3. If the main function of GnRH-1 is unambiguously to stimulate gonadotropin release, the other two GnRH forms still lack clear functions. This is particularly true for the highly conserved GnRH-2 that encodes chicken GnRH-II. This GnRH variant is consistently expressed in neurons of the dorsal synencephalon in most vertebrate groups but still has no clear functions supported by anatomical, pharmacological, and physiological data. In this study performed on a perciform fish, the European sea bass, we show for the first time that the pineal organ receives GnRH-2-immunoreactive fibers originating from the synencephalic GnRH-2 neurons. This was shown through a combination of retrograde tracing and immunohistochemistry, using highly specific antibodies. Supporting the presence of GnRH-2 functional targets, RT-PCR data together with the in situ hybridization studies showed that the sea bass pineal gland strongly expressed a GnRH receptor (dlGnRHR-II-2b) with clear selectivity for GnRH-2 and, to a lesser extent, the dlGnRHR-II-1a subtype. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate stimulatory effects of GnRH-2 on nocturnal melatonin secretion by the sea bass pineal organ. Altogether, these data provide, for the first time in a vertebrate species, converging evidence supporting a role of GnRH-2 in the modulation of fish pineal functions.

Neuroendocrinology of reproduction in teleost fish

This review aims at synthesizing the most relevant information regarding the neuroendocrine circuits controlling reproduction, mainly gonadotropin release, in teleost fish. In teleosts, the pituitary receives a more or less direct innervation by neurons sending projections to the vicinity of the pituitary gonadotrophs. Among the neurotransmitters and neuropeptides released by these nerve endings are gonadotrophin-releasing hormones (GnRH) and dopamine, acting as stimulatory and inhibitory factors (in many but not all fish) on the liberation of LH and to a lesser extent that of FSH. The activity of the corresponding neurons depends on a complex interplay between external and internal factors that will ultimately influence the triggering of puberty and sexual maturation. Among these factors are sex steroids and other peripheral hormones and growth factors, but little is known regarding their targets. However, very recently a new actor has entered the field of reproductive physiology. KiSS1, first known as a tumor suppressor called metastin, and its receptor GPR54, are now central to the regulation of GnRH, and consequently LH and FSH secretion in mammals. The KiSS system is notably viewed as instrumental in integrating both environmental cues and metabolic signals and passing this information onto the reproductive axis. In fish, there are two KiSS genes, KiSS1 and KiSS2, expressed in neurons of the preoptic area and mediobasal hypothalamus. Pionneer studies indicate that KiSS and GPR54 expression seem to be activated at puberty. Although precise information as to the physiological effects of KiSS1 in fish, notably on GnRH neurons and gonadotropin release, is still limited, KiSS neurons may emerge as the "gatekeeper" of puberty and reproduction in fish as in mammals.

mRNA expression of GnRH variants and receptors in the brain, pituitary and ovaries of pejerrey (Odontesthes bonariensis) in relation to the reproductive status

The present study examined the differential mRNA expression levels of three forms of GnRH (sGnRH, pjGnRH and cGnRH-II) and two forms of GnRH receptor (pjGnRH-R I and pjGnRH-R II) in the brain, pituitary, and ovaries of pejerrey in relation to the reproductive status. The analysis revealed the presence of significant amounts of mRNA of the three GnRH forms while the ovaries showed only two (sGnRH and pjGnRH). The GnRH receptor II was found ubiquitously in the brain, pituitary, and ovaries while the form I was detected only in the brain. The levels of pjGnRH mRNA in the brain and pjGnRH-R II in the pituitary gland varied in correlation with the ovarian condition. However, brain sGnRH and pjGnRH-R I mRNA levels reached a maximum during early stages of ovarian development. In contrast, the brain levels of cGnRH-II mRNA showed no variation. The present study also shows a good correlation of ovarian sGnRH and pjGnRH-R II mRNA levels with the reproductive condition, suggesting that these molecules are may be involved in the regulation of pejerrey ovarian function.

Structural and functional evolution of gonadotropin-releasing hormone in vertebrates

The neuropeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has a central role in the neural control of vertebrate reproduction. This review describes an overview of what is currently known about GnRH in vertebrates in the context of its structural and functional evolution. A large body of evidence has demonstrated the existence of three paralogous genes for GnRH (GnRH1, GnRH2 and GnRH3) in the vertebrate lineage. They are most probably the products of whole-genome duplications that occurred early in vertebrate evolution. Although GnRH3 has been identified only in teleosts, comparative genomic analyses indicated that GnRH3 has not arisen from a teleost-specific genome duplication, but has been derived from an earlier genome duplication in an ancestral vertebrate, followed by its loss in the tetrapod lineage. A loss of other paralogous genes has also occurred independently in different vertebrate lineages, leading to species-specific differences in the organization of the GnRH system. In addition to the GnRH3 gene, the GnRH2 gene has been deleted or silenced in certain mammalian species, while some teleosts seem to have lost the GnRH1 or GnRH3 gene. The duplicated GnRH genes have undergone subfunctionalization during the evolution of vertebrates; GnRH1 has become the major stimulator of gonadotropins and probably other pituitary hormones as well, whereas GnRH2 and GnRH3 would have functioned as neuromodulators, affecting reproductive behaviour. Conversely, in cases where a paralogous gene for GnRH has been lost, one of the remaining paralogues appears to have adopted its role.

Molecular cloning and gene expression of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor in the orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides

The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) involved in the endocrine regulation of reproduction in the orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides. The full-length cDNA encoding GnRH-R type I was successfully cloned from the pituitary by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA end (RACE) methods in the grouper. The complete GnRH-R type I cDNA is 1607 bp, which includes an open reading frame of 1092 bp encoding a protein of 364 amino acids, a seven-alpha helix transmembrane domain, a N-terminal extracellular domain, and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain. The expression of GnRH-R type I was found to be highest in the pituitary. An intramuscular injection of various GnRH types in vivo was attempted. The expression of GnRH-R type I was stimulated by a single injection of salmon GnRH, while in the case of chicken GnRH II treatment, the expression of GnRH-R type I was inhibited. This suggests that the action of chick GnRH II is probably enhanced through the GnRH receptor of different forms. Furthermore, none of them were expressed by an injection of seabream GnRH, and this is likely attributed to the injection dose being below the threshold level, and this remains to be further examined. In conclusion, GnRHs of various types are effective in stimulating the expression of gonadotropins through various forms of the GnRH-R, and multiple forms of the receptor gene likely exist in teleosts.

Sex steroids are involved in the regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and dopamine D2 receptors in female tilapia pituitary

Although molecular mechanisms underlying steroid effects on GnRH and dopamine receptors are well documented in mammals, little is known in fish. Herein, we describe the expression of pituitary GnRH and dopamine receptors relative to gonadotropin expression and release. We exposed female tilapia to graded doses of estradiol or 17alpha,20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP) in vitro, and of estradiol in vivo, and determined mRNA levels of gnrhr1, gnrhr3, drd2, lhb, and fshb by real-time PCR. We also determined gonadotropin levels using specific ELISAs. Exposure to low doses of estradiol caused increased gnrhr3 mRNA levels in vivo and in vitro, probably related to positive feedback on FSH release. Increasing concentrations of estradiol resulted in increased drd2 mRNA levels in vivo and in vitro, inhibition of LH and FSH release, and inhibition of lhb mRNA levels in vivo, possibly related to negative feedback. At high doses of estradiol, FSH release increased in preparation for a new generation of follicles. Exposure to nanomolar doses of DHP resulted in increased drd2 mRNA levels, probably related to negative feedback on LH release. A decrease in drd2 levels at the micromolar range of DHP (concomitant with increased gnrhr3 and fshb mRNA levels) may be related to the recruitment of a new generation of oocytes. Exposure to DHP also resulted in increased lhb mRNA levels toward final oocyte maturation. Salmon GnRH analog (sGnRHa) increased mRNA levels of gnrh1and gnrh3; when combined with DHP, sGnRHa synergistically increased expression of gnrh3 only. These results emphasize the role of sex steroids on positive and negative feedbacks controlling the reproductive cycle.

Differential social regulation of two pituitary gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors

In many vertebrates, social interactions regulate reproductive capacity by altering the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. To better understand the mechanisms underlying social regulation of reproduction, we investigated the relationship between social status and one main component of the HPG axis: expression levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R). Social interactions dictate reproductive capacity in the cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni. Reproductively active territory holders suppress the HPG axis of non-territorial males through repeated aggressive encounters. To determine whether the expression of GnRH-R is socially regulated, we quantified mRNA levels of two GnRH-R variants in the pituitaries and brains of territorial (T) and non-territorial (NT) A. burtoni males. We found that T males had significantly higher levels of pituitary GnRH-R1 mRNA than NT males. In contrast, GnRH-R2 mRNA levels in the pituitary did not vary with social status. Pituitaries from both T and NT males expressed significantly higher mRNA levels of GnRH-R1 than GnRH-R2. GnRH mRNA levels in the brain correlated positively with GnRH-R1 mRNA levels in the pituitary but did not correlate with pituitary GnRH-R2. Measurements of GnRH-R1 and GnRH-R2 mRNA levels across the whole brain revealed no social status differences. These results show that, in addition to the known effects of social status on other levels of the HPG axis, GnRH receptor in the pituitary is also a target of social regulation.

Seasonal changes in expression of genes encoding five types of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors and responses to GnRH analog in the pituitary of masu salmon

Five types of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) genes, designated as msGnRH-R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5, are expressed in the brain and pituitary of masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou). In the present study, seasonal changes in the expression of these five genes were examined in the pituitary to elucidate their roles in GnRH action during growth and sexual maturation. In addition, the seasonal variation of these genes in response to GnRH was examined in a GnRH analog (GnRHa) implantation experiment. Pituitary samples were collected 1 week after the implantation every month from immaturity through spawning. The absolute amount of GnRH-R mRNA in single pituitaries was determined by real-time PCR assays. Among the five genes, R4 was predominantly expressed in the pituitaries. In the immature fish, the amount of GnRH-R mRNA varied with seasons and subtypes. In the pre-spawning period, R1 and R4 mRNAs in both sexes and R2 and R3 mRNAs in the females increased 4- to 20-fold and then decreased in the spawning season. The effects of GnRHa treatment were significantly different in both sexes. In the females, GnRHa tended to elevate the expression of all the subtypes of GnRH-R genes in various stages during the experimental period, whereas it had almost no apparent effects in the males. These results indicate that the expression of the five GnRH-R genes is seasonally variable and may be related to the responses of the pituitary hormone genes to GnRH, and the regulation of GnRH-R genes by GnRH is different in both sexes.

GnRHs and GnRH receptors

GnRH is the pivotal hypothalamic hormone regulating reproduction. Over 20 forms of the decapeptide have been identified in which the NH2- and COOH-terminal sequences, which are essential for receptor binding and activation, are conserved. In mammals, there are two forms, GnRH I which regulates gonadotropin and GnRH II which appears to be a neuromodulator and stimulates sexual behaviour. GnRHs also occur in reproductive tissues and tumours in which a paracrine/autocrine role is postulated. GnRH agonists and antagonists are now extensively used to treat hormone-dependent diseases, in assisted conception and have promise as novel contraceptives. Non-peptide orally-active GnRH antagonists have been recently developed and may increase the flexibility and range of utility. As with GnRH, GnRH receptors have undergone co-ordinated gene duplications such that cognate receptor subtypes for respective ligands exist in most vertebrates. Interestingly, in man and some other mammals (e.g. chimp, sheep and bovine) the Type II GnRH receptor has been silenced. However, GnRH I and GnRH II still appear to have distinct roles in signalling differentially through the Type I receptor (ligand-selective-signalling) to have different downstream effects. The ligand-receptor interactions and receptor conformational changes involved in receptor activation have been partly delineated. Together, these findings are setting the scene for generating novel selective GnRH analogues with potential for wider and more specific application.

Cloning and characterization of a functional type II gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor with a lengthy carboxy-terminal tail from an ancestral vertebrate, the sea lamprey

A full-length transcript encoding a functional type II GnRH receptor was cloned from the pituitary of the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus. The current study is the first to identify a pituitary GnRH receptor transcript in an agnathan, which is the oldest vertebrate lineage. The cloned receptor retains the conserved structural features and amino acid motifs of other known GnRH receptors and notably includes a C-terminal intracellular tail of approximately 120 amino acids, the longest C-terminal tail of any vertebrate GnRH receptor identified to date. The lamprey GnRH receptor was shown to activate the inositol phosphate (IP) signaling system; stimulation with either lamprey GnRH-I or lamprey GnRH-III led to dose-dependent responses in transiently transfected COS7 cells. Furthermore, analyses of serially truncated lamprey GnRH receptor mutants indicate perturbations of the C-terminal tail disrupts IP accumulation, however, the tailless lamprey GnRH receptor was not only functional but was also capable of stimulating IP levels equal to wild type. Expression of the receptor transcript was demonstrated in the pituitary and testes using RT-PCR, whereas in situ hybridization showed expression and localization of the transcript in the proximal pars distalis of the pituitary. The phylogenetic placement and structural and functional features of this GnRH receptor suggest that it is representative of an ancestral GnRH receptor. In addition to having an important role in lamprey reproductive processes, the extensive C-terminal tail of this lamprey GnRH receptor may have great significance for understanding the evolutionary change of this vital structural feature within the GnRH receptor family.

Cloning and Expression of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor in the Brain and Pituitary of the European Sea Bass: An In Situ Hybridization Study1

A full-length cDNA encoding a GnRH receptor (GnRH-R) has been obtained from the pituitary of the European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax. The complete cDNA is 1814 base pairs (bp) in length and encodes a protein of 416 amino acids. The 5' UTR and 3' UTR are 239 bp and 324 bp in size, respectively. The expression sites of this GnRH-R were studied in the brain and pituitary of sea bass by means of in situ hybridization. A quantitative analysis of the expression of the GnRH-R gene along the reproductive cycle was also performed. The GnRH-R brain expression was especially relevant in the ventral telencephalon and rostral preoptic area. Some GnRH-R messenger-expressing cells were also evident in the dorsal telencephalon, caudal preoptic area, ventral thalamus, and periventricular hypothalamus. A conspicuous and specific GnRH-R expression was detected in the pineal gland. The highest expression of the GnRH-R gene was observed in the proximal pars distalis of the pituitary. This expression was evident in all LH cells and some FSH cells but not in somatotrophs. In the pituitary, the quantitative analysis revealed a higher expression of GnRH-R gene during late vitellogenesis in comparison with maturation, spawning, and postspawning/resting periods. However, in the brain, the highest GnRH-R expression was evident at spawning or postspawning/ resting periods. These results suggest that the expression of this GnRH-R is regulated in a different manner in the brain and the pituitary of sea bass.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors

GnRH and its analogs are used extensively for the treatment of hormone-dependent diseases and assisted reproductive techniques. They also have potential as novel contraceptives in men and women. A thorough delineation of the molecular mechanisms involved in ligand binding, receptor activation, and intracellular signal transduction is kernel to understanding disease processes and the development of specific interventions. Twenty-three structural variants of GnRH have been identified in protochordates and vertebrates. In many vertebrates, three GnRHs and three cognate receptors have been identified with distinct distributions and functions. In man, the hypothalamic GnRH regulates gonadotropin secretion through the pituitary GnRH type I receptor via activation of G(q). In-depth studies have identified amino acid residues in both the ligand and receptor involved in binding, receptor activation, and translation into intracellular signal transduction. Although the predominant coupling of the type I GnRH receptor in the gonadotrope is through productive G(q) stimulation, signal transduction can occur via other G proteins and potentially by G protein-independent means. The eventual selection of intracellular signaling may be specifically directed by variations in ligand structure. A second form of GnRH, GnRH II, conserved in all higher vertebrates, including man, is present in extrahypothalamic brain and many reproductive tissues. Its cognate receptor has been cloned from various vertebrate species, including New and Old World primates. The human gene homolog of this receptor, however, has a frame-shift and stop codon, and it appears that GnRH II signaling occurs through the type I GnRH receptor. There has been considerable plasticity in the use of different GnRHs, receptors, and signaling pathways for diverse functions. Delineation of the structural elements in GnRH and the receptor, which facilitate differential signaling, will contribute to the development of novel interventive GnRH analogs.

The brain–pituitary–gonad axis in male teleosts, with special emphasis on flatfish (Pleuronectiformes)

The key component regulating vertebrate puberty and sexual maturation is the endocrine system primarily effectuated along the brain-pituitary-gonad (BPG) axis. By far most investigations on the teleost BPG axis have been performed on salmonids, carps, catfish and eels. Accordingly, earlier reviews on the BPG axis in teleosts have focused on these species, and mainly on females (e.g. 'Fish Physiology, vol. IXA. Reproduction (1983) pp. 97'; 'Proceedings of the Fourth International Symposium on the Reproductive Physiology of Fish. FishSymp91, Sheffield, UK, 1991, pp. 2'; 'Curr. Top. Dev. Biol. 30 (1995) pp. 103'; 'Rev. Fish Biol. Fish. 7 (1997) pp. 173'; 'Proceedings of the Sixth International Symposium on the Reproductive Physiology of Fish. John Grieg A/S, Bergen, Norway, 2000, pp. 211'). However, in recent years new data have emerged on the BPG axis in flatfish, especially at the level of the brain and pituitary. The evolutionarily advanced flatfishes are important model species both from an evolutionary point of view and also because many are candidates for aquaculture. The scope of this paper is to review the present status on the male teleost BPG axis, with an emphasis on flatfish. In doing so, we will first discuss the present understanding of the individual constituents of the axis in the best studied teleost models, and thereafter discuss available data on flatfish. Of the three constituents of the BPG axis, we will focus especially on the pituitary and gonadotropins. In addition to reviewing recent information on flatfish, we present some entirely new information on the phylogeny and molecular structure of teleost gonadotropins.

Identification and characterization of a reptilian GnRH receptor from the leopard gecko

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of reproductive functions through interactions with its specific receptor. We describe the first molecular cloning and characterization of a full-length GnRH receptor (GnRHR) from the leopard gecko Eublepharis macularius. It has a distinct genomic structure consisting of five exons and four introns, compared with all the other reported GnRHR genes. A native GnRH form, cGnRH-II, stimulated inositol phosphate (IP) production in COS-7 cells transiently transfected with the GnRHR, in a dose dependent manner. The mRNA was expressed in all the tissues and organs examined. Molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that the cloned GnRHR belongs to the type 2/nonmammalian I GnRHR. Low-expression levels were observed from the pituitary glands of reproductively active leopard geckos, indicating the possibility that there is at least one more type of GnRHR highly expressed in the pituitary gland for the gonadotropin secretion in this reptile.

Regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-receptor gene expression in tilapia: effect of GnRH and dopamine

The present work was designed to study certain aspects of the endocrine regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) in the pituitary of the teleost fish tilapia. A GnRH-R was cloned from the pituitary of hybrid tilapia (taGnRH-R) and was identified as a typical seven-transmembrane receptor. Northern blot analysis revealed a single GnRH-R transcript in the pituitary of approximately 2.3 kilobases. The taGnRH-R mRNA levels were significantly higher in females than in males. Injection of the salmon GnRH analog (sGnRHa; 5-50 microg/kg) increased the steady-state levels of taGnRH-R mRNA, with the highest response recorded at 25 microg/kg and at 36 h. At the higher dose of sGnRHa (50 microg/kg), taGnRH-R transcript appeared to be down-regulated. Exposure of tilapia pituitary cells in culture to graded doses (0.1-100 nM) of seabream (sbGnRH = GnRH I), chicken II (cGnRH II), or salmon GnRH (sGnRH = GnRH III) resulted in a significant increase in taGnRH-R mRNA levels. The highest levels of both LH release and taGnRH-R mRNA levels were recorded after exposure to cGnRH II and the lowest after exposure to sbGnRH. The dopamine-agonist quinpirole suppressed LH release and mRNA levels of taGnRH-R, indicating an inhibitory effect on GnRH-R synthesis. Collectively, these data provide evidence that GnRH in tilapia can up- regulate, whereas dopamine down-regulates, taGnRH-R mRNA levels.

Evolutionary aspects of GnRHs, GnRH neuronal systems and GnRH receptors in teleost fish

Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) was originally believed to be released by a unique set of hypophysiotrophic neurons to stimulate the release of gonadotrophins from the pituitary, therefore acting as a major initiator of the hormonal cascade controlling the reproductive axis. However, it now appears that each vertebrate species expresses two or three GnRH forms in multiple tissues and that GnRHs exert pleiotropic actions via several classes of receptors. This new vision of the GnRH systems arose progressively from numerous comparative studies in all vertebrate classes, but fish in general, and teleosts in particular, have often plaid a leading part in changing established concepts. To date fish still appear as attractive models to decipher the evolutionary mechanisms that led to the diversification of GnRH functions. Not only do teleosts exhibit the highest variety of GnRH variants, but recent data and whole genome analyses indicate that they may also possess multiple GnRH receptors. This paper intends to summarize the current situation with special emphasis on interspecies comparisons which provide insights into the possible evolutionary mechanisms leading to the diversification of GnRH functions.

Structure of the GnRH receptor-stimulated signaling network: insights from genomics

The GnRH receptor influences gene expression in the gonadotrope through activating signaling cascades that modulate transcription factor expression and activity. A longstanding question in neuroendocrinology is how instructions received at the membrane in the form of the pattern of receptor stimulation are processed into specific biosynthetic changes at each gonadotropin promoter. Signal transduction from the membrane to preformed transcription factors relies on recognition of altered conformations. Signal transduction through the layers of the gene network also requires the biosynthesis of new transcription factors. The signal processing of this system depends on its molecular connectivity map and its feedback and feed-forward loops. Review of signal transduction, gene control, and genomic studies provide evidence of key loops that cross between cellular and nuclear compartments. Genomic studies suggest that the signal transduction and gene network form a continuum. We propose that information transfer in the gonadotrope depends on robust signaling modules that serve to integrate events at different time scales across cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments.

Differential brain distribution of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors in the goldfish

The present study describes the differential distributions in the brain of the two goldfish gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors, using both immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization approaches. The goldfish GnRH GfA and GfB receptors are variant forms of the same receptor subtype, although with distinct differences in ligand binding characteristics, and differential distributions in the pituitary and body tissues [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 96 (1999) 2526]. The goldfish GnRH GfA receptor was found to be widespread throughout the brain, with neurons showing immunoreactivity in the olfactory bulbs, telencephalon, preoptic region, ventro-basal hypothalamus, thalamus, midbrain, motor neurons of the fifth, seventh, and tenth cranial nerves, reticular formation, cerebellum, and motor zone of the vagal lobes. The tracts in the posterior commissure, optic tectum, and motor zone of the vagal lobes also demonstrated immunoreactivity. While the brain was not systematically surveyed for in situ hybridization, hybridization was found in similar locations in the telencephalon, preoptic region, ventro-basal hypothalamus, cerebellum, and optic tectum. Hybridization was additionally found in the medial hypothalamus. The goldfish GnRH GfB receptor was found to have a more restricted distribution in the brain, with neurons showing immunoreactivity in the telencephalon, preoptic region, and ventro-basal hypothalamus. In situ hybridization demonstrated a somewhat wider distribution of expression of the receptor, with hybridization occurring in the preoptic region, ventro-basal and medial hypothalamus, as well as in the thalamus, epithalamus, and optic tectum. The widespread distribution of GnRH GfA receptor, and in particular its localization in the midbrain tegmentum in the region of the GnRH-II neurons, suggests that this receptor may be involved in the behavioral actions of GnRH peptides in the goldfish.

Effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and dopamine antagonist on hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis of pre-pubertal female red seabream (Pagrus major)

The effects of GnRH agonist (GnRHa) on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis were studied in female pre-pubertal red seabream. Sexually immature 16-month-old fish were implanted intramuscularly with cholesterol pellets containing GnRHa or GnRHa in combination with domperidone, putative dopamine antagonist, and reared for 10-20 days. In both GnRHa and GnRHa+domperidone implanted groups, vitellogenesis was observed on Day 10 and ovulation was observed on Day 20, while ovarian development was not observed in the control fish throughout the experimental period. The levels of GnRH receptor mRNA were significantly higher in both GnRHa implanted groups than in the control. The expressions of all three gonadotropin subunit genes were up-regulated and serum luteinizing hormone levels were increased by the GnRHa implantation. Serum testosterone and estradiol-17beta levels were also increased on Day 10 and maintained high levels on Day 20. On the other hand, seabream (sb) GnRH mRNA levels in the brain were relatively low and unchanged in all experiment groups. The present study first shows that GnRH alone can induce precocious puberty in red seabream. These results indicate that the system of pituitary-gonadal axis has already been developed in 16-month-old fish and the commencement of sbGnRH secretion may be an important physiological event for the onset of puberty in the red seabream.

Evolutionary aspects of cellular communication in the vertebrate hypothalamo-hypophysio-gonadal axis

This review emphasizes the comparative approach for developing insight into knowledge related to cellular communications occurring in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Indeed, research on adaptive phenomena leads to evolutionary tracks. Thus, going through recent results, we suggest that pheromonal communication precedes local communication which, in turn, precedes communication via the blood stream. Furthermore, the use of different routes of communication by a certain mediator leads to a conceptual change related to what hormones are. Nevertheless, endocrine communication should leave out of consideration the source (glandular or not) of mediator. Finally, we point out that the use of lower vertebrate animal models is fundamental to understanding general physiological mechanisms. In fact, different anatomical organization permits access to tissues not readily approachable in mammals.

Cell migration and evolutionary significance of GnRH subtypes

Hypothetically it can be assumed that in advanced teleost fishes, GnRH-III and GnRH-IV neurons migrate along the 'telencephalonic' (anterior) and 'diencephalonic' (posterior) migratory route, which perhaps fuses in primitive teleost fishes and land vertebrates to form the 'ancient migratory route' (in all probability = nervus terminalis; see Von Bartheld et al., 1988) of GnRH-I neurons. The difference in distribution pattern of GnRH forms in the vertebrate brain is due to distinct embryonic origins: (1) Cells of olfactory origin, which give rise to GnRH-I (salmon, catfish, chicken I, mammalian GnRH) are distributed along the olfactory system and the basal forebrain in primitive fishes and in land vertebrates; GnRH-I might be pivotal for LH/FSH synthesis-release, olfaction and metamorphosis in lower vertebrates. In advanced teleost fishes, neurons synthesizing GnRH-III ('salmon' GnRH) originate from the olfactory system; they are distributed along the basal olfactory bulbs, with distinct ganglia (NOR) at the caudalmost part of the olfactory bulbs and few scattered cells in the basal telencephalon. The NOR might function as a neuromodulator, hypophysiotropic hormone and regulate visual associated reproductive behaviors. (2) Cells of mesencephalonic origin, which give rise to GnRH-II (chicken-II GnRH) are evolutionarily conserved; might function as a neuromodulator involved in motor-associated reproductive behaviors and acid-base balance. (3) Cells of diencephalonic origin, which give rise to GnRH-IV (seabream, medaka GnRH); they are localized in the anterior-basal OVLT-POA area and present only in advanced teleost fishes. GnRH-IV has been implicated in gonadal sex differentiation, gonadal maturation, LH/FSH secretion and territorial behavior. Advance teleost fishes for yet unknown functions might have acquired GnRH-IV. Although all GnRH subtypes participate in some aspect of reproduction; the precise function of each GnRH form still remains unclear.

Spatio-temporal expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor subtypes in gonadotropes, somatotropes and lactotropes in the cichlid fish

The description of two or more forms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in most vertebrates suggests multiple roles for this family of peptide hormones. In order to verify these functions, we analysed the anatomical location, time of initial expression and ontogenic changes in three distinct GnRH receptors (GnRH-Rs) in developing and sexually mature tilapia, using antisera raised against the extracellular loop three of the receptor, which is a determinant in ligand-selectivity and receptor coupling to signalling pathways. In all age groups, including males and females, using in situ hybridization and double-label immunological methods, GnRH-R type IA was colocalized in cells containing luteinizing hormone (LH) beta-subunit in the pituitary. GnRH-R type IB was visualized in prolactin cells and LH cells. The type III GnRH-R was expressed in growth hormone cells. On day 8 after fertilization, GnRH-R type III was first seen in growth hormone cells and, subsequently, on day 15, GnRH-Rs type IA and type IB were first seen in LH and prolactin cells, respectively. On day 25, the receptor occupied area per pituitary and the staining intensity of GnRH-R type IA increased significantly, consistent with the hypothesis that differentiation of GnRH neurones and their inputs to the pituitary coincide precisely with gonadal sex differentiation and steroidogenesis in tilapia. The differential distribution of GnRH-Rs in the pituitary provides the first clear evidence that the three native GnRH variants in tilapia have cognate receptors, each capable of regulating different pituitary endocrine cells.

Identification and characterization of two distinct GnRH receptor subtypes in a teleost, the medaka Oryzias latipes

We report the identification and characterization of two distinct GnRH receptor (GnRH-R) subtypes, designated GnRH-R1 and GnRH-R2, in a model teleost, the medaka Oryzias latipes. These seven-transmembrane receptors of the medaka contain a cytoplasmic C-terminal tail, which has been found in all other nonmammalian GnRH-Rs cloned to date. The GnRH-R1 gene is composed of three exons separated by two introns, whereas the GnRH-R2 gene has an additional intron and therefore consists of four exons and three introns. The GnRH-R1 and GnRH-R2 genes, both of which exist as single-copy genes in the medaka genome, were mapped to linkage groups 3 and 16, respectively. Inositol phosphate assays using COS-7 cells transfected with GnRH-R1 and GnRH-R2 demonstrated that they had remarkably different ligand sensitivities, although both receptors showed highest preference for chicken-II-type GnRH. Phylogenetic analysis showed the presence of three paralogous lineages for vertebrate GnRH-Rs and indicated that neither GnRH-R1 nor GnRH-R2 is the medaka ortholog to mammalian GnRH-Rs that lack a cytoplasmic tail. This, together with an observation that medaka-type GnRH had low affinity for GnRH-R1 and GnRH-R2, suggests that a third GnRH-R may exist in the medaka.

Recombinant perciform GnRH-R activates different signaling pathways in fish and mammalian heterologous cell lines

Perciforms have three forms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in their brain. All three GnRHs are potent secretogogues for luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary. The pivotal role of GnRH-R-GnRH interactions in reproductive homeostasis is well established; however, there is a paucity of information on how a GnRH-R responds to the three endogenous GnRH forms in a perciform species. In this study, a recombinant pituitary GnRH-R from striped bass (stb) was expressed in a mammalian cell line (COS-7) and a fish cell line (CHSE-214). Activation of the signaling pathways was monitored by reporter gene (luciferase) based assays, which were specific for cAMP-PKA or Ca 2+/calmodulin kinase (activated via c-fos promoter) signaling pathways. The stbGnRH-R expressed in two different cell lines triggered different downstream signaling in response to the treatments with chicken (c) GnRH II. Interestingly, when endogenous GnRHs were used in combinations, the luciferase activity was significantly attenuated in transfected CHSE-214 cells.