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Radomsky T, Anderson RC, Millar RP, Newton CL. Restoring function to inactivating G protein-coupled receptor variants in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis 1. J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13418. [PMID: 38852954 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are central to the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) and include the rhodopsin-like GPCR family members, neurokinin 3 receptor, kappa-opioid receptor, kisspeptin 1 receptor, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the gonadotropin receptors, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor. Unsurprisingly, inactivating variants of these receptors have been implicated in a spectrum of reproductive phenotypes, including failure to undergo puberty, and infertility. Clinical induction of puberty in patients harbouring such variants is possible, but restoration of fertility is not always a realisable outcome, particularly for those patients suffering from primary hypogonadism. Thus, novel pharmaceuticals and/or a fundamental change in approach to treating these patients are required. The increasing wealth of data describing the effects of coding-region genetic variants on GPCR function has highlighted that the majority appear to be dysfunctional as a result of misfolding of the encoded receptor protein, which, in turn, results in impaired receptor trafficking through the secretory pathway to the cell surface. As such, these intracellularly retained receptors may be amenable to 'rescue' using a pharmacological chaperone (PC)-based approach. PCs are small, cell permeant molecules hypothesised to interact with misfolded intracellularly retained proteins, stabilising their folding and promoting their trafficking through the secretory pathway. In support of the use of this approach as a viable therapeutic option, it has been observed that many rescued variant GPCRs retain at least a degree of functionality when 'rescued' to the cell surface. In this review, we examine the GPCR PC research landscape, focussing on the rescue of inactivating variant GPCRs with important roles in the HPG axis, and describe what is known regarding the mechanisms by which PCs restore trafficking and function. We also discuss some of the merits and obstacles associated with taking this approach forward into a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarryn Radomsky
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Xu Q, Ye M, Su Y, Feng L, Zhou L, Xu J, Wang D. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in male tilapia lacking a functional rln3b gene. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132165. [PMID: 38729472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132165] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Relaxin 3 is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in reproductive functions of mammals. Previous studies have confirmed that rln3a plays an important role in the male reproduction of tilapia. To further understand the significance of its paralogous gene rln3b in male fertility, we generated a homozygous mutant line of rln3b in Nile tilapia. Our findings indicated that rln3b mutation delayed spermatogenesis and led to abnormal testes structure. Knocking out rln3b gene resulted in a decrease in sperm count, sperm motility and male fish fertility. TUNEL detection revealed a small amount of apoptosis in the testes of rln3b-/- male fish at 390 days after hatching (dah). RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that mutation of rln3b gene caused a significant downregulation of steroid synthesis-related genes such as cyp17a1, cyp11b2, germ cell marker gene, Vasa, and gonadal somatic cell marker genes of amh and amhr2. Furthermore, we found a significant down-regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis-related genes, while a significantly up-regulation of the dopamine synthetase gene in the rln3b-/- male fish. Taken together, our data strongly suggested that Rln3b played a crucial role in the fertility of XY tilapia by regulating HPG axis genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglei Xu
- Fisheries Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China
| | - Maolin Ye
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yun Su
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Li Feng
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Linyan Zhou
- Fisheries Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China.
| | - Jian Xu
- Fisheries Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China.
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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Sleiman PM, Qu HQ, Connolly JJ, Mentch F, Pereira A, Lotufo PA, Tollman S, Choudhury A, Ramsay M, Kato N, Ozaki K, Mitsumori R, Jeon JP, Hong CH, Son SJ, Roh HW, Lee DG, Mukadam N, Foote IF, Marshall CR, Butterworth A, Prins BP, Glessner JT, Hakonarson H. Trans-ethnic genomic informed risk assessment for Alzheimer's disease: An International Hundred K+ Cohorts Consortium study. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:5765-5772. [PMID: 37450379 PMCID: PMC10854406 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13378] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a collaboration model between the International HundredK+ Cohorts Consortium (IHCC) and the Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative (DAC), our aim was to develop a trans-ethnic genomic informed risk assessment (GIRA) algorithm for Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS The GIRA model was created to include polygenic risk score calculated from the AD genome-wide association study loci, the apolipoprotein E haplotypes, and non-genetic covariates including age, sex, and the first three principal components of population substructure. RESULTS We validated the performance of the GIRA model in different populations. The proteomic study in the participant sites identified proteins related to female infertility and autoimmune thyroiditis and associated with the risk scores of AD. CONCLUSIONS As the initial effort by the IHCC to leverage existing large-scale datasets in a collaborative setting with DAC, we developed a trans-ethnic GIRA for AD with the potential of identifying individuals at high risk of developing AD for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M. Sleiman
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Hui-Qi Qu
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - John J Connolly
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Frank Mentch
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Alexandre Pereira
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centro de Pesquisas Clínicas e Epidemiológicas, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo A Lotufo
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centro de Pesquisas Clínicas e Epidemiológicas, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Stephen Tollman
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ananyo Choudhury
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michele Ramsay
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Norihiro Kato
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, 1628655, Japan
| | - Kouichi Ozaki
- Medical Genome Center, Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
| | - Risa Mitsumori
- Medical Genome Center, Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
| | - Jae-Pil Jeon
- Korea Biobank Project, Korea National Institute of Health, Osong, Korea
| | - Chang Hyung Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Sang Joon Son
- Department of Psychiatry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Hyun Woong Roh
- Department of Psychiatry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Dong-gi Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Isabelle F Foote
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Genes & Health, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Charles R Marshall
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Genes & Health, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Adam Butterworth
- MRC/BHF Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Donor Health and Genomics, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bram P Prins
- MRC/BHF Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Donor Health and Genomics, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joseph T Glessner
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
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Shi Y, Miao BY, Ai XX, Cao P, Gao J, Xu Y, Yang Q, Fei J, Zhang Q, Mai QY, Wen YX, Qu YL, Zhou CQ, Xu YW. Identification of common genetic polymorphisms associated with down-regulated gonadotropin levels in an exome-wide association study. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:671-681. [PMID: 37001689 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.03.031] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether common genetic polymorphisms are associated with gonadotropin levels after down-regulation with daily gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and whether the polymorphisms of candidate variants influence the ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropins. DESIGN Genetic association study. SETTING University-affiliated in vitro fertilization center. PATIENTS Subjects enrolled in an exploratory exome-wide association study (n = 862), a replication exome-wide association study (n = 86), and a classifier validation study (n = 148) were recruited from September 2016 to October 2018, September 2019 to September 2020, and January 2021 to December 2021, respectively. The included patients were aged ≤40 years and had a basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ≤12 IU/L. INTERVENTIONS All participants received a luteal phase down-regulation long protocol. Genome DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood leukocytes. For the exploratory and replication cohorts, exome sequencing was conducted on a HiSeq 2500 sequencing platform. The multiplex polymerase chain reaction amplification technique and next-generation sequencing also were performed in the exploratory and replication cohorts. For the samples of the validation cohort, Sanger sequencing was performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary endpoint was the gonadotropin levels after down-regulation, and the secondary endpoints were hormone levels and follicle diameters during stimulation, the total dose of FSH, duration of FSH stimulation, number of oocytes retrieved, and clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS In the exploratory cohort, we identified that FSHB rs6169 (P=2.71 × 10-24) and its single-nucleotide polymorphisms in high linkage disequilibrium were associated with the down-regulated FSH level. The same locus was confirmed in the replication cohort. Women carrying the C allele of FSHB rs6169 exhibited higher average estradiol level during stimulation (P=6.82 × 10-5), shorter duration of stimulation, and less amount of exogenous FSH (Pduration=0.0002; Pdose=0.0024). In the independent validation set, adding rs6169 genotypes into the prediction model for FSH level after down-regulation enhanced the area under the curve from 0.560 to 0.712 in a logistic regression model, and increased prediction accuracy by 41.05% when a support vector machine classifier was applied. CONCLUSION The C allele of FSHB rs6169 is a susceptibility site for the relatively high level of FSH after down-regulation, which may be associated with increased ovarian FSH sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ben-Yu Miao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xi-Xiong Ai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of the South Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ping Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Research School for Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jun Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qun Yang
- Peking Medriv Academy of Genetics and Reproduction, Peking, China
| | - Jia Fei
- Peking Medriv Academy of Genetics and Reproduction, Peking, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Peking Medriv Academy of Genetics and Reproduction, Peking, China
| | - Qing-Yun Mai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang-Xing Wen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan-Lin Qu
- Department of Management Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Can-Quan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan-Wen Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Ludwig CLM, Bohleber S, Lapp R, Rebl A, Wirth EK, Langhammer M, Schweizer U, Weitzel JM, Michaelis M. Alterations in gonadotropin, apoptotic and metabolic pathways in granulosa cells warrant superior fertility of the Dummerstorf high fertility mouse line 1. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:32. [PMID: 36739419 PMCID: PMC9898973 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01113-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The development and maturation of ovarian follicles is a complex and highly regulated process, which is essential for successful ovulation. During recent decades, several mouse models provided insights into the regulation of folliculogenesis. In contrast to the commonly used transgenic or knockout mouse models, the Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line 1 (FL1) is a worldwide unique selection experiment for increased female reproductive performance and extraordinary high fertility. Interactions of cycle-related alterations of parameters of the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis and molecular factors in the ovary lead to improved follicular development and therefore increased ovulation rates in FL1 mice. FL1 females almost doubled the number of ovulated oocytes compared to the unselected control mouse line. To gain insights into the cellular mechanisms leading to the high fertility phenotype we used granulosa cells isolated from antral follicles for mRNA sequencing. Based on the results of the transcriptome analysis we additionally measured hormones and growth factors associated with follicular development to complement the picture of how the signaling pathways are regulated. While IGF1 levels are decreased in FL1 mice in estrus, we found no differences in insulin, prolactin and oxytocin levels in FL1 mice compared to the control line. The results of the mRNA sequencing approach revealed that the actions of insulin, prolactin and oxytocin are restricted local to the granulosa cells, since hormonal receptor expression is differentially regulated in FL1 mice. Additionally, numerous genes, which are involved in important gonadotropin, apoptotic and metabolic signaling pathways in granulosa cells, are differentially regulated in granulosa cells of FL1 mice.We showed that an overlap of different signaling pathways reflects the crosstalk between gonadotropin and growth factor signaling pathways, follicular atresia in FL1 mice is decreased due to improved granulosa cell survival and by improving the efficiency of intracellular signaling, glucose metabolism and signal transduction, FL1 mice have several advantages in reproductive performance and therefore increased the ovulation rate. Therefore, this worldwide unique high fertility model can provide new insights into different factors leading to improved follicular development and has the potential to improve our understanding of high fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Bohleber
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie (IBMB), Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebecca Lapp
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Rebl
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Eva Katrin Wirth
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany ,grid.452396.f0000 0004 5937 5237DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Langhammer
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schweizer
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie (IBMB), Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Joachim M. Weitzel
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Marten Michaelis
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
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Ludwig CLM, Bohleber S, Rebl A, Wirth EK, Venuto MT, Langhammer M, Schweizer U, Weitzel JM, Michaelis M. Endocrine and molecular factors of increased female reproductive performance in the Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1. J Mol Endocrinol 2022; 69:285-298. [PMID: 35388794 PMCID: PMC9175557 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1 is a worldwide unique selection experiment for increased female reproductive performance. After more than 190 generations of selection, these mice doubled the amount of offspring per litter compared to the unselected control line. FL1 females have a superior lifetime fecundity and the highest Silver fecundity index that has been described in mice, while their offspring show no signs of growth retardation. The reasons for the increased reproductive performance remained unclear. Thus, this study aims to characterize the Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1 on endocrine and molecular levels on the female side. We analyzed parameters of the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis on both hormonal and transcriptional levels. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations were decreased in FL1 throughout the whole estrous cycle. Luteinizing hormone (LH) was increased in FL1 mice in estrus. Progesterone concentrations were decreased in estrus in FL1 mice and not affected in diestrus. We used a holistic gene expression approach in the ovary to obtain a global picture of how the high-fertility phenotype is achieved. We found several differentially expressed genes in the ovaries of FL1 mice that are associated with different female fertility traits. Our results indicate that ovulation rates in mice can be increased despite decreased FSH levels. Cycle-related alterations of progesterone and LH levels have the potential to improve follicular maturation, and interactions of endocrine and molecular factors lead to enhanced follicular survival, more successful folliculogenesis and therefore higher ovulation rates in female FL1 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Bohleber
- Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie (IBMB), Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Rebl
- Institute of Genome Biology, Fish Genetics Unit, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Eva Katrin Wirth
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marzia Tindara Venuto
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Martina Langhammer
- Institute of Genetics and Biometry, Service Group Model Laboratory Animals, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schweizer
- Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie (IBMB), Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Joachim M Weitzel
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to J M Weitzel or M Michaelis: or
| | - Marten Michaelis
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to J M Weitzel or M Michaelis: or
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Rivero-Müller A, Huhtaniemi I. Genetic variants of gonadotrophins and their receptors: Impact on the diagnosis and management of the infertile patient. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 36:101596. [PMID: 34802912 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This narrative review is concerned with genetic variants of the genes encoding gonadotrophin subunits and their receptors, as well as their implications into the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. We first review briefly the basics of molecular biology and biochemistry of gonadotrophin and gonadotrophin receptor structure and function, then describe the phenotypic effects of polymorphisms and mutations of these genes, followed by diagnostic aspects. We will then summarise the information that inactivating gonadotrophin receptor mutations have provided about the controversial topic of extragonadal gonadotrophin action. Finally, we will close with the current and future therapeutic approaches on patients with gonadotrophin and their receptor mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, 20-093, Poland
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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8
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Lundin K, Sepponen K, Väyrynen P, Liu X, Yohannes DA, Survila M, Ghimire B, Känsäkoski J, Katayama S, Partanen J, Vuoristo S, Paloviita P, Rahman N, Raivio T, Luiro K, Huhtaniemi I, Varjosalo M, Tuuri T, Tapanainen JS. OUP accepted manuscript. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:6574364. [PMID: 35471239 PMCID: PMC9308958 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K Lundin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - K Sepponen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Väyrynen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - X Liu
- Molecular Systems Biology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology & HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Proteomics Unit, Institute of Biotechnology & HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - D A Yohannes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Programs Unit, Translational Immunology & Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Survila
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - B Ghimire
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Känsäkoski
- Department of Physiology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Katayama
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Partanen
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Vuoristo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Paloviita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - N Rahman
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - T Raivio
- Department of Physiology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- New Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, Helsinki University Hospital, HUH, Helsinki, Finland
| | - K Luiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - I Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Hammersmith Campus, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - M Varjosalo
- Molecular Systems Biology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology & HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Proteomics Unit, Institute of Biotechnology & HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Tuuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Oulu, University of Oulu, Medical Research Center Oulu and PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
- Corresponding author. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, PO Box 140, 00029 Helsinki, Finland. Tel: +358-94711; E-mail:
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9
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Szeliga A, Kunicki M, Maciejewska-Jeske M, Rzewuska N, Kostrzak A, Meczekalski B, Bala G, Smolarczyk R, Adashi EY. The Genetic Backdrop of Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413241. [PMID: 34948037 PMCID: PMC8708611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The pituitary is an organ of dual provenance: the anterior lobe is epithelial in origin, whereas the posterior lobe derives from the neural ectoderm. The pituitary gland is a pivotal element of the axis regulating reproductive function in mammals. It collects signals from the hypothalamus, and by secreting gonadotropins (FSH and LH) it stimulates the ovary into cyclic activity resulting in a menstrual cycle and in ovulation. Pituitary organogenesis is comprised of three main stages controlled by different signaling molecules: first, the initiation of pituitary organogenesis and subsequent formation of Rathke’s pouch; second, the migration of Rathke’s pouch cells and their proliferation; and third, lineage determination and cellular differentiation. Any disruption of this sequence, e.g., gene mutation, can lead to numerous developmental disorders. Gene mutations contributing to disordered pituitary development can themselves be classified: mutations affecting transcriptional determinants of pituitary development, mutations related to gonadotropin deficiency, mutations concerning the beta subunit of FSH and LH, and mutations in the DAX-1 gene as a cause of adrenal hypoplasia and disturbed responsiveness of the pituitary to GnRH. All these mutations lead to disruption in the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis and contribute to the development of primary amenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szeliga
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.); (M.M.-J.); (A.K.)
| | - Michal Kunicki
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, 00-019 Warsaw, Poland;
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-315 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Marzena Maciejewska-Jeske
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.); (M.M.-J.); (A.K.)
| | - Natalia Rzewuska
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-315 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Anna Kostrzak
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.); (M.M.-J.); (A.K.)
| | - Blazej Meczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.); (M.M.-J.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-61-65-99-366; Fax: +48-61-65-99-454
| | - Gregory Bala
- Appletree Medical Group, Ottawa, ON K1R 5C1, Canada;
| | - Roman Smolarczyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-315 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Eli Y. Adashi
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, 272 George St., Providence, RI 02906, USA;
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10
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Bhartiya D, Patel H. An overview of FSH-FSHR biology and explaining the existing conundrums. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:144. [PMID: 34717708 PMCID: PMC8557046 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00880-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
FSH was first identified in 1930 and is central to mammalian reproduction. It is indeed intriguing that despite being researched upon for about 90 years, there is still so much more to learn about FSH-FSHR biology. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of current understanding of FSH-FSHR biology, to review published data on biological and clinical relevance of reported mutations, polymorphisms and alternately spliced isoforms of FSHR. Tissue-resident stem/progenitor cells in multiple adult tissues including ovaries, testes and uterus express FSHR and this observation results in a paradigm shift in the field. The results suggest a direct action of FSH on the stem cells in addition to their well-studied action on Granulosa and Sertoli cells in the ovaries and testes respectively. Present review further addresses various concerns raised in recent times by the scientific community regarding extragonadal expression of FSHR, especially in cancers affecting multiple organs. Similar population of primitive and pluripotent tissue-resident stem cells expressing FSHR exist in multiple adult tissues including bone marrow and reproductive tissues and help maintain homeostasis throughout life. Any dysfunction of these stem cells results in various pathologies and they also most likely get transformed into cancer stem cells and initiate cancer. This explains why multiple solid as well as liquid tumors express OCT-4 and FSHR. More research efforts need to be focused on alternately spliced FSHR isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Maharashtra, 400012, Mumbai, India. .,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Maharashtra, 400012, Mumbai, India.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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11
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Louden ED, Poch A, Kim HG, Ben-Mahmoud A, Kim SH, Layman LC. Genetics of hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism-Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 534:111334. [PMID: 34062169 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, which may be normosmic (nHH) or anosmic/hyposmic, known as Kallmann syndrome (KS), is due to gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiency, which results in absent puberty and infertility. Investigation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS over the past 35 years has yielded a substantial increase in our understanding, as variants in 44 genes in OMIM account for ~50% of cases. The first genes for KS (ANOS1) and nHH (GNRHR) were followed by the discovery that FGFR1 variants may cause either nHH or KS. Associated anomalies include midline facial defects, neurologic deficits, cardiac anomalies, and renal agenesis, among others. Mouse models for all but one gene (ANOS1) generally support findings in humans. About half of the known genes implicated in nHH/KS are inherited as autosomal dominant and half are autosomal recessive, whereas only 7% are X-linked recessive. Digenic and oligogenic inheritance has been reported in 2-20% of patients, most commonly with variants in genes that may result in either nHH or KS inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. In vitro analyses have only been conducted for both gene variants in eight cases and for one gene variant in 20 cases. Rigorous confirmation that two gene variants in the same individual cause the nHH/KS phenotype is lacking for most. Clinical diagnosis is probably best accomplished by targeted next generation sequencing of the known candidate genes with confirmation by Sanger sequencing. Elucidation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS has resulted in an enhanced understanding of this disorder, as well as normal puberty, which makes genetic diagnosis clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica D Louden
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Alexandra Poch
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Afif Ben-Mahmoud
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Soo-Hyun Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
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12
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Кокорева КД, Чугунов ИС, Безлепкина ОБ. [Molecular genetics and phenotypic features of congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2021; 67:46-56. [PMID: 34533013 PMCID: PMC9112933 DOI: 10.14341/probl12787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism includes a group of diseases related to the defects of secretion and action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) and gonadotropins. In a half of cases congenital hypogonadism is associated with an impaired sense of smell. It's named Kallmann syndrome. Now 40 genes are known to be associated with function of hypothalamus pituitary gland and gonads. Phenotypic features of hypogonadism and therapy effectiveness are related to different molecular defects. However clinical signs may vary even within the same family with the same molecular genetic defect. Genotype phenotype correlation in patients with congenital malformations prioritizes the search for mutations in candidate genes. There are data of significant contribution of oligogenicity into the phenotype of the disease are presented in the review. Moreover, an issue of current isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism definition and classification revision is raised in the review due to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism development while there are mutations in genes not associated with GNRH neurons secretion and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- К. Д. Кокорева
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - И. С. Чугунов
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
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13
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Bohaczuk SC, Cassin J, Slaiwa TI, Thackray VG, Mellon PL. Distal Enhancer Potentiates Activin- and GnRH-Induced Transcription of FSHB. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6213400. [PMID: 33824966 PMCID: PMC8157479 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
FSH is critical for fertility. Transcription of FSHB, the gene encoding the beta subunit, is rate-limiting in FSH production and is regulated by both GnRH and activin. Activin signals through SMAD transcription factors. Although the mechanisms and importance of activin signaling in mouse Fshb transcription are well-established, activin regulation of human FSHB is less well understood. We previously reported a novel enhancer of FSHB that contains a fertility-associated single nucleotide polymorphism (rs10031006) and requires a region resembling a full (8 base-pair) SMAD binding element (SBE). Here, we investigated the role of the putative SBE within the enhancer in activin and GnRH regulation of FSHB. In mouse gonadotrope-derived LβT2 cells, the upstream enhancer potentiated activin induction of both the human and mouse FSHB proximal promoters and conferred activin responsiveness to a minimal promoter. Activin induction of the enhancer required the SBE and was blocked by the inhibitory SMAD7, confirming involvement of the classical SMAD signaling pathway. GnRH induction of FSHB was also potentiated by the enhancer and dependent on the SBE, consistent with known activin/GnRH synergy regulating FSHB transcription. In DNA pull-down, the enhancer SBE bound SMAD4, and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated SMAD4 enrichment at the enhancer in native chromatin. Combined activin/GnRH treatment elevated levels of the active transcriptional histone marker, histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation, at the enhancer. Overall, this study indicates that the enhancer is directly targeted by activin signaling and identifies a novel, evolutionarily conserved mechanism by which activin and GnRH can regulate FSHB transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Bohaczuk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Cassin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Theresa I Slaiwa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA. E-mail:
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14
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Bosch E, Alviggi C, Lispi M, Conforti A, Hanyaloglu AC, Chuderland D, Simoni M, Raine-Fenning N, Crépieux P, Kol S, Rochira V, D'Hooghe T, Humaidan P. Reduced FSH and LH action: implications for medically assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1469-1480. [PMID: 33792685 PMCID: PMC8129594 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play complementary roles in follicle development and ovulation via a complex interaction in the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, reproductive organs, and oocytes. Impairment of the production or action of gonadotropins causes relative or absolute LH and FSH deficiency that compromises gametogenesis and gonadal steroid production, thereby reducing fertility. In women, LH and FSH deficiency is a spectrum of conditions with different functional or organic causes that are characterized by low or normal gonadotropin levels and low oestradiol levels. While the causes and effects of reduced LH and FSH production are very well known, the notion of reduced action has received less attention by researchers. Recent evidence shows that molecular characteristics, signalling as well as ageing, and some polymorphisms negatively affect gonadotropin action. These findings have important clinical implications, in particular for medically assisted reproduction in which diminished action determined by the afore-mentioned factors, combined with reduced endogenous gonadotropin production caused by GnRH analogue protocols, may lead to resistance to gonadotropins and, thus, to an unexpected hypo-response to ovarian stimulation. Indeed, the importance of LH and FSH action has been highlighted by the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ICMART) in their definition of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism as gonadal failure associated with reduced gametogenesis and gonadal steroid production due to reduced gonadotropin production or action. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of determinants of reduced FSH and LH action that are associated with a reduced response to ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M Lispi
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.,International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - A Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - A C Hanyaloglu
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - D Chuderland
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - M Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - N Raine-Fenning
- Department of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - P Crépieux
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR INRA 085, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - S Kol
- IVF Unit, Elisha Hospital, Haifa, Israel
| | - V Rochira
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara, Modena, Italy
| | - T D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of Development & Regeneration, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - P Humaidan
- Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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15
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Ongaro L, Alonso CAI, Zhou X, Brûlé E, Li Y, Schang G, Parlow AF, Steyn F, Bernard DJ. Development of a Highly Sensitive ELISA for Measurement of FSH in Serum, Plasma, and Whole Blood in Mice. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6105044. [PMID: 33475143 PMCID: PMC7894055 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) regulates gonadal function and fertility. Measurement of FSH in bodily fluids and tissues is possible with radioimmunoassays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Recently, several novel assays were developed to measure pituitary hormones including growth hormone, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone in mice from small sample volumes. Here, we describe a novel and sensitive ELISA that enables the accurate measurement of FSH in serum, plasma, and whole blood from female and male mice. The assay can also be used to measure FSH in murine pituitary lysates and cell culture media. In summary, the new methodology described here will enable investigators to measure FSH from a variety of biological samples in mice accurately, at low cost, and in their own laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Emilie Brûlé
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Yining Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Albert F Parlow
- National Hormone & Peptide Program, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Frederik Steyn
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard, PhD, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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16
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Eskenazi S, Bachelot A, Hugon-Rodin J, Plu-Bureau G, Gompel A, Catteau-Jonard S, Molina-Gomes D, Dewailly D, Dodé C, Christin-Maitre S, Touraine P. Next Generation Sequencing Should Be Proposed to Every Woman With "Idiopathic" Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab032. [PMID: 34095689 PMCID: PMC8169040 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) affects 1% of women under 40 years of age. POI is idiopathic in more than 70% of cases. Though many candidate genes have been identified in recent years, the prevalence and pathogenicity of abnormalities are still difficult to establish. Objective Our primary objective was to evaluate the prevalence of gene variations in a large prospective multicentric POI cohort. Our secondary objective was to evaluate the correlation between phenotype and genotype. Methods Two hundred and sixty-nine well-phenotyped POI patients were screened for variants of 18 known POI genes (BMP15, DMC1, EIF2S2, FIGLA, FOXL2, FSHR, GDF9, GPR3, HFM1, LHX8, MSH5, NOBOX, NR5A1, PGRMC1, STAG3, XPNPEP2, BHLB, and FSHB) by next generation sequencing (NGS). Abnormalities were classified as "variant" or "variant of unknown signification" (VUS) according to available functional tests or algorithms (SIFT, Polyphen-2, MutationTaster). Results One hundred and two patients (38%) were identified as having at least 1 genetic abnormality. Sixty-seven patients (25%) presented at least 1 variant. Forty-eight patients presented at least 1 VUS (18%). Thirteen patients (5%) had combined abnormalities. NOBOX variants were the most common gene variants involved in POI (9%). Interestingly, we saw no significant differences in the previous family history of POI, ethnic origin, age at onset of POI, primary amenorrhea, or secondary menstrual disturbances between the different genotypes. Conclusion In our study, a high percentage of patients presented gene variants detected by NGS analysis (38%). Every POI patient should undergo NGS analysis to improve medical cares of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Eskenazi
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Center for Rare Growth Disorders and Center for Developmental Disorders: CMERC.,Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Anne Bachelot
- Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France.,Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Center for Rare Endocrine Disorders and Center for Rare Gynecological Disorders: CMERC
| | - Justine Hugon-Rodin
- Department of Gynecology and Endocrinology, Cochin/Port-Royal Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 1153, EPOPE group, Paris, France
| | - Genevieve Plu-Bureau
- Department of Gynecology and Endocrinology, Cochin/Port-Royal Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 1153, EPOPE group, Paris, France
| | - Anne Gompel
- Department of Gynecology and Endocrinology, Cochin/Port-Royal Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Department of Medical Gynaecology, CHU Lille, University of Lillle, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Denise Molina-Gomes
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Technics, Poissy Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, Poissy, France
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Department of Medical Gynaecology, CHU Lille, University of Lillle, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Catherine Dodé
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Cochin/Port-Royal Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Christin-Maitre
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Center for Rare Growth Disorders and Center for Developmental Disorders: CMERC.,Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR-S933, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France.,Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Center for Rare Endocrine Disorders and Center for Rare Gynecological Disorders: CMERC
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17
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Bohaczuk SC, Thackray VG, Shen J, Skowronska-Krawczyk D, Mellon PL. FSHB Transcription is Regulated by a Novel 5' Distal Enhancer With a Fertility-Associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphism. Endocrinology 2021; 162:5917511. [PMID: 33009549 PMCID: PMC7846141 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone, signal the gonads to regulate male and female fertility. FSH is critical for female fertility as it regulates oocyte maturation, ovulation, and hormone synthesis. Multiple genome-wide association studies (GWAS) link a 130 Kb locus at 11p14.1, which encompasses the FSH beta-subunit (FSHB) gene, with fertility-related traits that include polycystic ovary syndrome, age of natural menopause, and dizygotic twinning. The most statistically significant single nucleotide polymorphism from several GWAS studies (rs11031006) resides within a highly conserved 450 bp region 26 Kb upstream of the human FSHB gene. Given that sequence conservation suggests an important biological function, we hypothesized that the region could regulate FSHB transcription. In luciferase assays, the conserved region enhanced FSHB transcription and gel shifts identified a binding site for Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) contributing to its function. Analysis of mouse pituitary single-cell ATAC-seq demonstrated open chromatin at the conserved region exclusive to a gonadotrope cell-type cluster. Additionally, enhancer-associated histone markers were identified by immunoprecipitation of chromatin from mouse whole pituitary and an immortalized mouse gonadotrope-derived LβT2 cell line at the conserved region. Furthermore, we found that the rs11031006 minor allele upregulated FSHB transcription via increased SF1 binding to the enhancer. All together, these results identify a novel upstream regulator of FSHB transcription and indicate that rs11031006 can modulate FSH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Bohaczuk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jia Shen
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Dorota Skowronska-Krawczyk
- Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Translational Vision Research, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA. E-mail:
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18
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Abstract
The diagnosis of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) has untold effects on women and a better understanding alongside potential treatments are paramount to improve quality of life of these women. Various causes have been linked to the development of POI with genetics playing a key role. A better understanding of the genetics of POI could lead to earlier diagnosis and broaden fertility options. This chapter discusses previously known and more recently discovered genes that have been implicated in the development of POI. It explores the varying phenotypic expressions of some genes in different populations and areas for further research in the genetics of POI.
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19
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Zhu L, Xiao N, Zhang T, Kong P, Xu B, Fang Z, Jin L. Clinical and genetic analysis of an isolated follicle-stimulating hormone deficiency female patient. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1441-1448. [PMID: 32367462 PMCID: PMC7311626 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01786-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the clinical features of a female patient with isolated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) deficiency and to investigate the underlying mechanisms of FSH inactivation. METHODS The proband was a 29-year-old woman with primary amenorrhea, impaired pubertal development, and infertility. Subsequently, reproductive endocrine was screened. DNA sequencing was conducted for the identification of FSHβ mutation. RT-PCR, western blots, in vitro immunometric assay, and bioassay were performed to confirm the impact of the mutation on FSH expression and biological activity. Molecular model consisting of FSHα and mutant FSHβ subunit was built for the structural analysis of FSH protein. RESULTS The evaluation of reproductive endocrine revealed undetectable basal and GnRH-stimulated serum FSH. Sequencing of the FSHβ gene identified a homozygous nonsense mutation at codon 97 (Arg97X). RT-PCR and western blot analysis revealed the mutation Arg97X did not affect FSHβ mRNA and protein expression. But in vitro immunometric assay and bioassay demonstrated the production of normal bioactive FSH protein was disturbed by the mutation Arg97X. Structural analysis showed the surface structure of the resulting mutant FSH presented with lock-and-key, mosaic binding pattern, while the native structure was an encircling binding mode. CONCLUSION The mutation Arg97X could disturb structural stability of the resulting FSH protein consisting of FSHα and mutant FSHβ subunit, which may lead to FSH deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 JieFang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Xiao
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 JieFang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingping Kong
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, People's Republic of China
| | - Bei Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 JieFang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Zishui Fang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 JieFang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 JieFang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Hsueh AJ, He J. Gonadotropins and their receptors: coevolution, genetic variants, receptor imaging, and functional antagonists. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:3-12. [PMID: 29462242 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins belong to the family of dimeric glycoprotein hormones and regulate gonadal physiology mediated by G protein-coupled, seven-transmembrane receptors. These glycoprotein hormones are widely used in the clinic to promote ovarian follicle development and for treating some cases of male infertility. We traced the coevolution of dimeric gonadotropin hormones and their receptors, together with thyrotropin and its receptor. We updated recent findings on human genetic variants of these genes and their association with dizygotic twining, polycystic ovarian syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency, male-limited precocious puberty, and infertility. In addition to the known physiological roles of gonadotropin-receptor signaling in gonadal tissues, we also discussed emerging understanding of extragonadal functions of gonadotropins in bones and adipose tissues, together with recent advances in in vivo imaging of gonadotropin receptors in live animals. Recent development of gonadotropin receptor agonists and antagonists were summarized with an emphasis on the development of functional antagonists for FSH receptors to alleviate osteoporosis and obesity associated with menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Hsueh
- Program of Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jiahuan He
- Program of Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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21
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Rougier C, Hieronimus S, Panaïa-Ferrari P, Lahlou N, Paris F, Fenichel P. Isolated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) deficiency in two infertile men without FSH β gene mutation: Case report and literature review. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2019; 80:234-239. [PMID: 31439307 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Congenital FSH deficiency is an exceptional cause of male infertility most often attributed to FSH β gene mutations. The few published cases report azoospermia, severe testicular hypotrophy and normal testosterone levels associated with normal virilization. We report the exploration of two young men aged 26 and 27 years with severe sperm abnormalities, moderate testicular hypotrophy and isolated FSH deficiency. METHODS Several FSH, LH, total testosterone and inhibin B assays and FSH β gene sequencing were performed. RESULTS FSH was almost undetectable at baseline and poorly responsive to GnRH test, whereas LH was normal at baseline and increased after GnRH test. Testosterone levels were within the adult range, while inhibin B levels were upper-normal to high. No FSH β gene mutations were found. Exogenous FSH treatment was followed by spontaneous pregnancy in one case and required intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the other. CONCLUSIONS The paradoxical high levels of inhibin B reflect the presence of functional Sertoli cells and may explain the isolated FSH deficiency. An intra-gonadal factor stimulating inhibin B secretion is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Rougier
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Nice, 151, route de Saint-Antoine, 06200 Nice, France.
| | - Sylvie Hieronimus
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Nice, 151, route de Saint-Antoine, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Patricia Panaïa-Ferrari
- Department of Biochemistry and Hormonology, University Hospital of Nice, 151, route de Saint-Antoine, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Najiba Lahlou
- Department of Biological Endocrinology, CHU Cochin, AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Françoise Paris
- Department of Hormonology and Pediatric Endocrinology, University Hospital of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Patrick Fenichel
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Nice, 151, route de Saint-Antoine, 06200 Nice, France
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Misgar RA, Wani AI, Bankura B, Bashir MI, Roy A, Das M. FSH β-subunit mutations in two sisters: the first report from the Indian sub-continent and review of previous cases. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:290-293. [PMID: 30602350 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1529159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Isolated FSH deficiency due to mutations in the gene for β-subunit of FSH is an extremely rare autosomal recessive disease of which only eleven cases have been reported so far. The clinical features include absent breast development and primary amenorrhea in females and azoospermia with normal testosterone levels in males. In this study we report two Kashmiri sisters born to native Kashmiri consanguineous parents with failure of onset of puberty. Hormonal evaluation revealed undetectable serum FSH and estradiol and high LH. Genetic analysis of FSH β-gene identified one nonsense mutation (c.343C > T:p. Arg115Stop) in exon 3. The two sisters were homozygous for this nonsense mutation while the parents were heterozygous. Incorporation of a stop codon at 115 codon position is predicted to result in the formation of truncated FSH β protein, lacking 14 amino acid from the carboxy-terminus (p.Arg115Stop). Very recently, this same mutation was reported for the first time in a Chinese male. Ours is the first ever report of any FSH β-subunit mutation from the Indian sub-continent and this particular mutation in any female from anywhere in the world. We conclude and emphasize that this diagnosis should be considered in girls with delayed puberty and selective deficiency of FSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raiz Ahmad Misgar
- a Department of Endocrinology , Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences , Srinagar , India
| | - Arshad Iqbal Wani
- a Department of Endocrinology , Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences , Srinagar , India
| | | | - Mir Iftikhar Bashir
- a Department of Endocrinology , Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences , Srinagar , India
| | | | - Madhusudan Das
- b Department of Zoology , University of Calcutta , Kolkata , India
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Conforti A, Vaiarelli A, Cimadomo D, Bagnulo F, Peluso S, Carbone L, Di Rella F, De Placido G, Ubaldi FM, Huhtaniemi I, Alviggi C. Pharmacogenetics of FSH Action in the Female. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:398. [PMID: 31293516 PMCID: PMC6606727 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of a pharmacogenomic approach is to tailor treatment on the basis of an individual human genotype. This strategy is becoming increasingly common in medicine, and important results have been obtained in oncologic and antimicrobial therapies. The rapid technological developments and availability of innovative methodologies have revealed the existence of numerous genotypes that can influence the action of medications and give rise to the idea that a true "individualized" approach could become in the future a reality in clinical practice. Moreover, compared to the past, genotype analyses are now more easily available at accessible cost. Concerning human reproduction, there is ample evidence that several variants of gonadotropins and their receptors influence female reproductive health and ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropins. In more detail, variants in genes of follicle-stimulating hormone β-chain (FSH-B) and its receptor (FSH-R) seem to be the most promising candidates for a pharmacogenomic approach to controlled ovarian stimulation in assisted reproductive technologies. In the present review, we summarize the evidence regarding FSH-B and FSH-R variants, with special reference to their impact on reproductive health and assisted reproductive technology treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Conforti
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- G.E.N.E.R.A. Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- G.E.N.E.R.A. Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bagnulo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Peluso
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Rella
- Medical Oncology, Department of Senology, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Placido
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- G.E.N.E.R.A. Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale (IEOS) Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
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Szymańska K, Kałafut J, Rivero-Müller A. The gonadotropin system, lessons from animal models and clinical cases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 70:561-587. [PMID: 30264954 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.18.04307-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review article centers upon family of gonadotropin hormones which consists of two pituitary hormones - follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) as well as one non-pituitary hormone - human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secreted by placenta, and their receptors. Gonadotropins play an essential role in proper sexual development, puberty, gametogenesis, maintenance of pregnancy and male sexual differentiation during the fetal development. They belong to the family of glycoprotein hormones thus they constitute heterodimeric proteins built of common α subunit and hormone-specific β-subunit. Hitherto, several mutations in genes encoding both gonadotropins and their receptors have been identified in humans. Their occurrence resulted in a number of different phenotypes including delayed puberty, primary amenorrhea, hermaphroditism, infertility and hypogonadism. In order to understand the effects of mutations on the phenotype observed in affected patients, detailed molecular studies are required to map the relationship between the structure and function of gonadotropins and their receptors. Nonetheless, in vitro assays are often insufficient to understand physiology. Therefore, several animal models have been developed to unravel the physiological roles of gonadotropins and their receptors.
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25
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Li Y, Schang G, Wang Y, Zhou X, Levasseur A, Boyer A, Deng CX, Treier M, Boehm U, Boerboom D, Bernard DJ. Conditional Deletion of FOXL2 and SMAD4 in Gonadotropes of Adult Mice Causes Isolated FSH Deficiency. Endocrinology 2018; 159:2641-2655. [PMID: 29800110 PMCID: PMC6692885 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The glycoprotein FSH, a product of pituitary gonadotrope cells, regulates ovarian follicle development in females and spermatogenesis in males. FSH is a heterodimer of the common α gonadotropin subunit and the hormone-specific FSHβ subunit (a product of the Fshb gene). Using a conditional knockout approach (Cre-lox), we previously demonstrated that Fshb expression in mice depends on the transcription factors forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) and SMAD4. Deletion of Foxl2 or Smad4 alone led to FSH deficiency, female subfertility, and oligozoospermia in males. Simultaneous deletion of the two genes yielded a greater suppression of FSH and female sterility. The Cre-driver used previously was first active during embryonic development. Therefore, it is unclear whether FOXL2 and SMAD4 play important roles in the development or adult function of gonadotropes, or both. To address this question, we developed a tamoxifen-inducible Cre-driver line, which enabled Foxl2 and Smad4 gene deletions in gonadotropes of adult mice. After tamoxifen treatment, females with previously demonstrated fertility exhibited profound reductions in FSH levels, arrested ovarian follicle development, and sterility. FSH levels were comparably reduced in males 1 or 2 months after treatment; however, spermatogenesis was unaffected. These data indicate that (1) FOXL2 and SMAD4 are necessary to maintain FSH synthesis in gonadotrope cells of adult mice, (2) FSH is essential for female reproduction but appears to be unnecessary for the maintenance of spermatogenesis in adult male mice, and (3) the inducible Cre-driver line developed here provides a powerful tool to interrogate gene function in gonadotrope cells of adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Li
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adrien Levasseur
- Département de Biomédecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Département de Biomédecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Mathias Treier
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin-Buch, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Département de Biomédecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard, PhD, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Room 1315, Montréal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada. E-mail:
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26
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Das N, Kumar TR. Molecular regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis, secretion and action. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R131-R155. [PMID: 29437880 PMCID: PMC5851872 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays fundamental roles in male and female fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein expressed by gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary. The hormone-specific FSHβ-subunit is non-covalently associated with the common α-subunit that is also present in the luteinizing hormone (LH), another gonadotrophic hormone secreted by gonadotrophs and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by thyrotrophs. Several decades of research led to the purification, structural characterization and physiological regulation of FSH in a variety of species including humans. With the advent of molecular tools, availability of immortalized gonadotroph cell lines and genetically modified mouse models, our knowledge on molecular mechanisms of FSH regulation has tremendously expanded. Several key players that regulate FSH synthesis, sorting, secretion and action in gonads and extragonadal tissues have been identified in a physiological setting. Novel post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms have also been identified that provide additional layers of regulation mediating FSH homeostasis. Recombinant human FSH analogs hold promise for a variety of clinical applications, whereas blocking antibodies against FSH may prove efficacious for preventing age-dependent bone loss and adiposity. It is anticipated that several exciting new discoveries uncovering all aspects of FSH biology will soon be forthcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandana Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Author for Correspondence: T. Rajendra Kumar, PhD, Edgar L. and Patricia M. Makowski Professor, Associate Vice-Chair of Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8613, Research Complex 2, Room # 15-3000B, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA, Tel: 303-724-8689,
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27
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Maione L, Dwyer AA, Francou B, Guiochon-Mantel A, Binart N, Bouligand J, Young J. GENETICS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Genetic counseling for congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and Kallmann syndrome: new challenges in the era of oligogenism and next-generation sequencing. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 178:R55-R80. [PMID: 29330225 DOI: 10.1530/eje-17-0749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) and Kallmann syndrome (KS) are rare, related diseases that prevent normal pubertal development and cause infertility in affected men and women. However, the infertility carries a good prognosis as increasing numbers of patients with CHH/KS are now able to have children through medically assisted procreation. These are genetic diseases that can be transmitted to patients' offspring. Importantly, patients and their families should be informed of this risk and given genetic counseling. CHH and KS are phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous diseases in which the risk of transmission largely depends on the gene(s) responsible(s). Inheritance may be classically Mendelian yet more complex; oligogenic modes of transmission have also been described. The prevalence of oligogenicity has risen dramatically since the advent of massively parallel next-generation sequencing (NGS) in which tens, hundreds or thousands of genes are sequenced at the same time. NGS is medically and economically more efficient and more rapid than traditional Sanger sequencing and is increasingly being used in medical practice. Thus, it seems plausible that oligogenic forms of CHH/KS will be increasingly identified making genetic counseling even more complex. In this context, the main challenge will be to differentiate true oligogenism from situations when several rare variants that do not have a clear phenotypic effect are identified by chance. This review aims to summarize the genetics of CHH/KS and to discuss the challenges of oligogenic transmission and also its role in incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity in a perspective of genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Maione
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Andrew A Dwyer
- Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bruno Francou
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Pharmacogenomics, and Hormonology, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Anne Guiochon-Mantel
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Pharmacogenomics, and Hormonology, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Nadine Binart
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Jérôme Bouligand
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Pharmacogenomics, and Hormonology, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Jacques Young
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, France
- INSERM U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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Richards JS, Ren YA, Candelaria N, Adams JE, Rajkovic A. Ovarian Follicular Theca Cell Recruitment, Differentiation, and Impact on Fertility: 2017 Update. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:1-20. [PMID: 29028960 PMCID: PMC5807095 DOI: 10.1210/er.2017-00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The major goal of this review is to summarize recent exciting findings that have been published within the past 10 years that, to our knowledge, have not been presented in detail in previous reviews and that may impact altered follicular development in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian failure in women. Specifically, we will cover the following: (1) mouse models that have led to discovery of the derivation of two precursor populations of theca cells in the embryonic gonad; (2) the key roles of the oocyte-derived factor growth differentiation factor 9 on the hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and theca cell functions; and (3) the impact of the HH pathway on both the specification of theca endocrine cells and theca fibroblast and smooth muscle cells in developing follicles. We will also discuss the following: (1) other signaling pathways that impact the differentiation of theca cells, not only luteinizing hormone but also insulinlike 3, bone morphogenic proteins, the circadian clock genes, androgens, and estrogens; and (2) theca-associated vascular, immune, and fibroblast cells, as well as the cytokines and matrix factors that play key roles in follicle growth. Lastly, we will integrate what is known about theca cells from mouse models, human-derived theca cell lines from patients who have PCOS and patients who do not have PCOS, and microarray analyses of human and bovine theca to understand what pathways and factors contribute to follicle growth as well as to the abnormal function of theca.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoAnne S. Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Yi A. Ren
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Nicholes Candelaria
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jaye E. Adams
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Magee-Women’s Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
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Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor: Advances and Remaining Challenges. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 338:1-58. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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30
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Zheng J, Mao J, Cui M, Liu Z, Wang X, Xiong S, Nie M, Wu X. Novel FSHβ mutation in a male patient with isolated FSH deficiency and infertility. Eur J Med Genet 2017; 60:335-339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 02/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Liu Y, Lin H. Genetic analysis of the reproductive axis in fish using genome-editing nucleases. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2017; 62:302-308. [PMID: 36659358 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2017.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction in fish is controlled by the brain-pituitary-gonad reproductive axis. Although genes of the reproductive axis are conserved from fish to humans, their in vivo functions are less clear in fish. Mutant lines of the reproductive axis have been systematically investigated in zebrafish and medaka using recently developed genome-editing nucleases. Here, we review recent progress in the genetic analysis of the reproductive axis in fish as well as the opportunities and challenges of applying genome-editing nucleases in fisheries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, and the Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Haoran Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, and the Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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Hardy K, Fenwick M, Mora J, Laird M, Thomson K, Franks S. Onset and Heterogeneity of Responsiveness to FSH in Mouse Preantral Follicles in Culture. Endocrinology 2017; 158:134-147. [PMID: 27819761 PMCID: PMC5412982 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The obligatory role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in normal development and function of ovarian antral follicles is well recognized, but its function in preantral growth is less clear. The specific objective of this study was to investigate the response, in culture, to FSH of mouse preantral follicles of increasing size, focusing particularly on growth rate and gene expression. Preantral follicles were mechanically isolated from ovaries of C57BL/6 mice, 12 to 16 days postpartum, and single follicles cultured for up to 96 hours in medium alone (n = 511) or with recombinant human FSH 10 ng/mL (n = 546). Data were grouped according to initial follicle diameter in 6 strata ranging from <100 to >140 μm. Follicles of all sizes grew in the absence of FSH (P < 0.01, paired t test). All follicles grew at a faster rate (P < 0.0001) in the presence of 10 ng/mL FSH but larger follicles showed the greatest change in response to FSH. Even the smallest follicles expressed FSH receptor messenger RNA (mRNA). FSH-induced growth was inhibited by KT5720, an inhibitor of protein kinase A (PKA), implicating the PKA pathway in FSH-induced follicle growth. In response to FSH in vitro, FSH receptor mRNA (measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction) was reduced (P < 0.01), as was Amh (P < 0.01), whereas expression of StAR (P < 0.0001) and the steroidogenic enzymes Cyp11a1 (P < 0.01) and Cyp19 (P < 0.0001) was increased. These results show heterogeneous responses to FSH according to initial follicle size, smaller follicles being less FSH dependent than larger preantral follicles. These findings strongly suggest that FSH has a physiological role in preantral follicle growth and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hardy
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Fenwick
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Jocelyn Mora
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Mhairi Laird
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Kacie Thomson
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Franks
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
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Li Y, Schang G, Boehm U, Deng CX, Graff J, Bernard DJ. SMAD3 Regulates Follicle-stimulating Hormone Synthesis by Pituitary Gonadotrope Cells in Vivo. J Biol Chem 2016; 292:2301-2314. [PMID: 27994055 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.759167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an essential regulator of fertility in females and of quantitatively normal spermatogenesis in males. Pituitary-derived activins are thought to act as major stimulators of FSH synthesis by gonadotrope cells. In vitro, activins signal via SMAD3, SMAD4, and forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) to regulate transcription of the FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb). Consistent with this model, gonadotrope-specific Smad4 or Foxl2 knock-out mice have greatly reduced FSH and are subfertile. The role of SMAD3 in vivo is unresolved; however, residual FSH production in Smad4 conditional knock-out mice may derive from partial compensation by SMAD3 and its ability to bind DNA in the absence of SMAD4. To test this hypothesis and determine the role of SMAD3 in FSH biosynthesis, we generated mice lacking both the SMAD3 DNA binding domain and SMAD4 specifically in gonadotropes. Conditional knock-out females were hypogonadal, acyclic, and sterile and had thread-like uteri; their ovaries lacked antral follicles and corpora lutea. Knock-out males were fertile but had reduced testis weights and epididymal sperm counts. These phenotypes were consistent with those of Fshb knock-out mice. Indeed, pituitary Fshb mRNA levels were nearly undetectable in both male and female knock-outs. In contrast, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor mRNA levels were significantly elevated in knock-outs in both sexes. Interestingly, luteinizing hormone production was altered in a sex-specific fashion. Overall, our analyses demonstrate that SMAD3 is required for FSH synthesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Li
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Saarland School of Medicine, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China, and
| | - Jonathan Graff
- the Department of Developmental Biology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- From the Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada,
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Şimşek E, Montenegro LR, Binay C, Demiral M, Acıkalin MF, Latronico AC. Clinical and Hormonal Features of a Male Adolescent with Congenital Isolated Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Deficiency. Horm Res Paediatr 2016; 85:207-12. [PMID: 26625121 DOI: 10.1159/000442289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Our aim was to describe the clinical and genetic findings in an adolescent male with isolated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) deficiency and demonstrate the efficacy of recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) replacement in this case. METHODS A 14.5-year-old adolescent male was referred with normal pubertal development and small testes. Serum testosterone, FSH, and luteinising hormone (LH) were measured at baseline and after gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation. Testicular biopsy was performed, and rhFSH replacement was administered for 6 months. The patient's FSHβ gene was amplified and sequenced. RESULTS Basal and GnRH-stimulated FSH levels were undetectable, in contrast with increased LH levels under both conditions. Histopathological investigation of a testicular biopsy specimen revealed a reduced number of Sertoli cells, the absence of germ cells, Leydig cell hyperplasia, and a thickened basement membrane in seminiferous tubules. The testicular size changed from 1 ml at baseline to 6 ml after 6 months of rhFSH replacement. Sequencing of the FSHβ gene exon 3 revealed a new missense mutation (c.364T>C, resulting in p.Cys122Arg) in a homozygous state in the patient; both parents and a sister carried the same mutation in a heterozygous state. We also compared our case with all similar cases published previously. CONCLUSION We herein described an adolescent male with isolated FSH deficiency due to a novel FSHβ gene mutation associated with a prepubertal testes size and normal virilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enver Şimşek
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Eskisehir Osmangazi University School of Medicine, Eskisehir, Turkey
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35
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Tucker EJ, Grover SR, Bachelot A, Touraine P, Sinclair AH. Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: New Perspectives on Genetic Cause and Phenotypic Spectrum. Endocr Rev 2016; 37:609-635. [PMID: 27690531 DOI: 10.1210/er.2016-1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one form of female infertility, defined by loss of ovarian activity before the age of 40 and characterized by amenorrhea (primary or secondary) with raised gonadotropins and low estradiol. POI affects up to one in 100 females, including one in 1000 before the age of 30. Substantial evidence suggests a genetic basis for POI; however, the majority of cases remain unexplained, indicating that genes likely to be associated with this condition are yet to be discovered. This review discusses the current knowledge of the genetic basis of POI. We highlight genes typically known to cause syndromic POI that can be responsible for isolated POI. The role of mouse models in understanding POI pathogenesis is discussed, and a thorough list of candidate POI genes is provided. Identifying a genetic basis for POI has multiple advantages, such as enabling the identification of presymptomatic family members who can be offered counseling and cryopreservation of eggs before depletion, enabling personalized treatment based on the cause of an individual's condition, and providing better understanding of disease mechanisms that ultimately aid the development of improved treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Tucker
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Sonia R Grover
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Anne Bachelot
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
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Stelmaszewska J, Chrusciel M, Doroszko M, Akerfelt M, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Nees M, Frentsch M, Li X, Kero J, Huhtaniemi I, Wolczynski S, Rahman NA. Revisiting the expression and function of follicle-stimulation hormone receptor in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37095. [PMID: 27848975 PMCID: PMC5111068 DOI: 10.1038/srep37095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of follicle-stimulation hormone receptor (FSHR) is confined to gonads and at low levels to some extragonadal tissues like human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). FSH-FSHR signaling was shown to promote HUVEC angiogenesis and thereafter suggested to have an influential role in pregnancy. We revisited hereby the expression and functionality of FSHR in HUVECs angiogenesis, and were unable to reproduce the FSHR expression in human umbilical cord, HUVECs or immortalized HUVECs (HUV-ST). Positive controls as granulosa cells and HEK293 cells stably transfected with human FSHR cDNA expressed FSHR signal. In contrast to positive control VEGF, FSH treatment showed no effects on tube formation, nitric oxide production, wound healing or cell proliferation in HUVEC/HUV-ST. Thus, it remains open whether the FSH-FSHR activation has a direct regulatory role in the angiogenesis of HUVECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Stelmaszewska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marcin Chrusciel
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland.,Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Science, 10714 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Milena Doroszko
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Malin Akerfelt
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Science, 10714 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Matthias Nees
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Marco Frentsch
- Regenerative Immunology and Aging, Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies, CVK Charité University Medicine, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Xiangdong Li
- State Key Lab for Agrobiotechnology, China Agriculture University, 100193 Beijing, China
| | - Jukka Kero
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland.,Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, W12 ONN London, UK
| | - Slawomir Wolczynski
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Bialystok, Poland.,Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Science, 10714 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Bialystok, Poland.,Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Lira-Albarrán S. Clinical Applications of Gonadotropins in the Male. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:121-174. [PMID: 27697201 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play a pivotal role in reproduction. The synthesis and secretion of gonadotropins are regulated by complex interactions among several endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors of diverse chemical structure. In men, LH regulates the synthesis of androgens by the Leydig cells, whereas FSH promotes Sertoli cell function and thereby influences spermatogenesis. Gonadotropins are complex molecules composed of two subunits, the α- and β-subunit, that are noncovalently associated. Gonadotropins are decorated with glycans that regulate several functions of the protein including folding, heterodimerization, stability, transport, conformational maturation, efficiency of heterodimer secretion, metabolic fate, interaction with their cognate receptor, and selective activation of signaling pathways. A number of congenital and acquired abnormalities lead to gonadotropin deficiency and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition amenable to treatment with exogenous gonadotropins. Several natural and recombinant preparations of gonadotropins are currently available for therapeutic purposes. The difference between natural and the currently available recombinant preparations (which are massively produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells for commercial purposes) mainly lies in the abundance of some of the carbohydrates that conform the complex glycans attached to the protein core. Whereas administration of exogenous gonadotropins in patients with isolated congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is a well recognized therapeutic approach, their role in treating men with normogonadotropic idiopathic infertility is still controversial. This chapter concentrates on the main structural and functional features of the gonadotropin hormones and how basic concepts have been translated into the clinical arena to guide therapy for gonadotropin deficit in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ulloa-Aguirre
- Research Support Network, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-National Institutes of Health, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - S Lira-Albarrán
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
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Dewailly D, Robin G, Peigne M, Decanter C, Pigny P, Catteau-Jonard S. Interactions between androgens, FSH, anti-Müllerian hormone and estradiol during folliculogenesis in the human normal and polycystic ovary. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:709-724. [PMID: 27566840 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 272] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens, FSH, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol (E2) are essential in human ovarian folliculogenesis. However, the interactions between these four players is not fully understood. OBJECTIVES AND RATIONALE The purpose of this review is to highlight the chronological sequence of the appearance and function of androgens, FSH, AMH and E2 and to discuss controversies in the relationship between FSH and AMH. A better understanding of this interaction could supplement our current knowledge about the pathophysiology of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). SEARCH METHODS A literature review was performed using the following search terms: androgens, FSH, FSH receptor, anti-Mullerian hormone, AMHRII, estradiol, follicle, ovary, PCOS, aromatase, granulosa cell, oocyte. The time period searched was 1980-2015 and the databases interrogated were PubMed and Web of Science. OUTCOMES During the pre-antral ('gonadotropin-independent') follicle growth, FSH is already active and promotes follicle growth in synergy with theca cell-derived androgens. Conversely, AMH is inhibitory by counteracting FSH. We challenge the hypothesis that AMH is regulated by androgens and propose rather an indirect effect through an androgen-dependent amplification of FSH action on granulosa cells (GCs) from small growing follicles. This hypothesis implies that FSH stimulates AMH expression. During the antral ('gonadotropin-dependent') follicle growth, E2 production results from FSH-dependent activation of aromatase. Conversely, AMH is inhibitory but the decline of its expression, amplified by E2, allows full expression of aromatase, characteristic of the large antral follicles. We propose a theoretical scheme made up of two triangles that follow each other chronologically. In PCOS, pre-antral follicle growth is excessive (triangle 1) because of intrinsic androgen excess that renders GCs hypersensitive to FSH, with consequently excessive AMH expression. Antral follicle growth and differentiation are disturbed (triangle 2) because of the abnormally persisting inhibition of FSH effects by AMH that blocks aromatase. Beside anovulation, this scenario may also serve to explain the higher receptiveness to gonadotropin therapy and the increased risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in patients with PCOS. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Within GCs, the balance between FSH and AMH effects is pivotal in the shift from androgen- to oestrogen-driven follicles. Our two triangles hypothesis, based on updated data from the literature, offers a pedagogic template for the understanding of folliculogenesis in the normal and polycystic ovary. It opens new avenues for the treatment of anovulation due to PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Dewailly
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, F-59037, Lille, France .,Faculté de Médecine, Université Lille Nord de France, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, F-59037, Lille, France
| | - Maëliss Peigne
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, F-59037, Lille, France
| | - Christine Decanter
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, F-59037, Lille, France
| | - Pascal Pigny
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Lille Nord de France, 59000 Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Biochimie & Hormonologie, Centre de Biologie Pathologie, F-59037 Lille, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, F-59037, Lille, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Lille Nord de France, 59000 Lille, France
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Kleinau G, Kalveram L, Köhrle J, Szkudlinski M, Schomburg L, Biebermann H, Grüters-Kieslich A. Minireview: Insights Into the Structural and Molecular Consequences of the TSH-β Mutation C105Vfs114X. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 30:954-64. [PMID: 27387040 DOI: 10.1210/me.2016-1065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Naturally occurring thyrotropin (TSH) mutations are rare, which is also the case for the homologous heterodimeric glycoprotein hormones (GPHs) follitropin (FSH), lutropin (LH), and choriogonadotropin (CG). Patients with TSH-inactivating mutations present with central congenital hypothyroidism. Here, we summarize insights into the most frequent loss-of-function β-subunit of TSH mutation C105Vfs114X, which is associated with isolated TSH deficiency. This review will address the following question. What is currently known on the molecular background of this TSH variant on a protein level? It has not yet been clarified how C105Vfs114X causes early symptoms in affected patients, which are comparably severe to those observed in newborns lacking any functional thyroid tissue (athyreosis). To better understand the mechanisms of this mutant, we have summarized published reports and complemented this information with a structural perspective on GPHs. By including the ancestral TSH receptor agonist thyrostimulin and pathogenic mutations reported for FSH, LH, and choriogonadotropin in the analysis, insightful structure function and evolutionary restrictions become apparent. However, comparisons of immunogenicity and bioactivity of different GPH variants is hindered by a lack of consensus for functional analysis and the diversity of used GPH assays. Accordingly, relevant gaps of knowledge concerning details of GPH mutation-related effects are identified and highlighted in this review. These issues are of general importance as several previous and recent studies point towards the high impact of GPH variants in differential signaling regulation at GPH receptors (GPHRs), both endogenously and under diseased conditions. Further improvement in this area is of decisive importance for the development of novel targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Kleinau
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Laura Kalveram
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Josef Köhrle
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Mariusz Szkudlinski
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Lutz Schomburg
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Heike Biebermann
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
| | - Annette Grüters-Kieslich
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology (G.K., L.K., H.B.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany; Institute of Experimental Endocrinology (J.K., L.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Germany; Trophogen, Inc (M.S.), Rockville, Maryland 20850; and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (A.G.-K.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, 13353 Germany
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Vazharova R, Kremensky I. Individual capacity for DNA repair and maintenance of genomic integrity: a fertile ground for studies in the field of assisted reproduction. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2016.1159923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Radoslava Vazharova
- Department of Biology, Medical Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivo Kremensky
- Center of Molecular Medicine, University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology “Maichin Dom”, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Zhang Z, Zhu B, Ge W. Genetic analysis of zebrafish gonadotropin (FSH and LH) functions by TALEN-mediated gene disruption. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 29:76-98. [PMID: 25396299 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate reproduction is controlled by two gonadotropins (FSH and LH) from the pituitary. Despite numerous studies on FSH and LH in fish species, their functions in reproduction still remain poorly defined. This is partly due to the lack of powerful genetic approaches for functional studies in adult fish. This situation is now changing with the emergence of genome-editing technologies, especially Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nuclease (TALEN) and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR). In this study, we deleted the hormone-specific β-genes of both FSH and LH in the zebrafish using TALEN. This was followed by a phenotype analysis for key reproductive events, including gonadal differentiation, puberty onset, gametogenesis, final maturation, and fertility. FSH-deficient zebrafish (fshb(-/-)) were surprisingly fertile in both sexes; however, the development of both the ovary and testis was significantly delayed. In contrast, LH-deficient zebrafish (lhb(-/-)) showed normal gonadal growth, but the females failed to spawn and were therefore infertile. Using previtellogenic follicles as the marker, we observed a significant delay of puberty onset in the fshb mutant but not the lhb mutant females. Interestingly, FSH seemed to play a role in maintaining the female status because we repeatedly observed sexual reversal in the fshb mutant. Neither the fshb nor lhb mutation alone seemed to affect gonadal differentiation; however, the double mutation of the two genes led to all males, although the development of the testis was significantly delayed. In summary, our data confirmed some well-known functions of FSH and LH in fish while also providing evidence for novel functions, which would be difficult to reveal using traditional biochemical and physiological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences (Z.Z., B.Z., W.G.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; and Faculty of Health Sciences (Z.Z., W.G.), University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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Busch AS, Hagen CP, Almstrup K, Main KM, Juul A. Genetic variations altering FSH action affect circulating hormone levels as well as follicle growth in healthy peripubertal girls. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:897-904. [PMID: 26905078 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do variants of the genes encoding follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) beta subunit (B) and FSH receptor (R) impact circulating reproductive hormone levels and ovarian follicle maturation in healthy peripubertal girls? SUMMARY ANSWER FSHB and FSHR genetic variants exert, alone or their combination, distinct effects on reproductive hormone levels as well as ovarian follicle maturation in healthy peripubertal girls. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FSHB and FSHR genetic variants impact reproductive hormone levels as well as associated pathologies in women. While FSHR c. 2039A>G is known to alter gonadotrophin levels in women, FSHR c.-29G>A has not yet been shown to exert effect and there are conflicting results concerning FSHB c.-211G>T. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This population-based study included 633 girls recruited as part of two cohorts, the COPENHAGEN Puberty Study (2006-2014, a cross-sectional and ongoing longitudinal study) and the Copenhagen Mother-Child Cohort (1997-2002, including transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS) of the ovaries in a subset of 91 peripubertal girls). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Clinical examinations, including pubertal breast stage (Tanner's classification B1-B5) were performed. Circulating levels of FSH, luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin-B were assessed by immunoassays. In a subset of the girls (n = 91), ovarian volume and the number/size of antral follicles were assessed by TAUS. Genotypes were determined by competitive PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE FSHR c.2039A>G minor alleles were positively associated with serum FSH (β = 0.08, P = 0.004), LH (β = 0.06, P = 0.012) and estradiol (β = 0.06, P = 0.017) (adjusted for Tanner stages). In a combined model, FSHR c.-29G>A and FSHR c.2039A>G alleles were positively associated with FSH levels in early-pubertal girls (B2 + B3, n = 327, r = 0.1, P = 0.02) and in young adolescents (B4 + B5, n = 149, r = 0.2, P = 0.01). Serum AMH and inhibin B levels were not significantly influenced by the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Single SNPs were not associated with follicles counts, however, a cumulative minor allele count (FSHB c.-211 G>T and FSHR c.-29G>A) was negatively associated with the number of large follicles (≥5 mm) (n = 91, P = 0.04) (adjusted for Tanner stages). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Since we studied girls and young adolescents during pubertal transition, our study may not be fully comparable with previous studies on FSHB and FSHR variants in adult women. The group of young adolescents (Tanner B4 + B5) reflects the endocrine situation in adult women best, however, the group is not large enough to contribute substantially to the conflicting results concerning the influence of FSHB c.-211G>T in adult women. Furthermore, we have no information about the exact day of the menstrual cycle in the subgroup of girls with menarche. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The sex-specific interaction of FSHB and FSHR genetic variants and physiological as well as pathological conditions is being increasingly elucidated. The variant triplet set might serve as diagnostic and pharmacogenetic marker. For the first time, we show an additional effect of FSHR c.-29G>A on serum FSH levels in healthy girls. Moreover, morphological data suggest impaired FSH-induced maturation of ovarian follicles in minor allele carriers of FSHB c.-211G>T and FSHR c.-29G>A. This may explain previous findings of delayed pubertal onset in these girls. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS Funding was provided by the Danish Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation (09-067180), Danish Ministry of the Environment, CeHoS (MST-621-00065), Capital Region of Denmark (December 2011), Ministry of Higher Education and Science (DFF-1331-00113) and EDMaRC (Danish Ministry of Health). A.S.B. was funded from December 2015 by ReproUnion (EU Interreg Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S Busch
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Section 5064, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Casper P Hagen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Section 5064, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Section 5064, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Katharina M Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Section 5064, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Section 5064, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen O, Denmark
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Sex-specific regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion by synaptotagmin 9. Nat Commun 2015; 6:8645. [PMID: 26482442 PMCID: PMC4620939 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The anterior pituitary releases six different hormones that control virtually all aspects of vertebrate physiology, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying their Ca(2+)-triggered release remain unknown. A subset of the synaptotagmin (syt) family of proteins serve as Ca(2+) sensors for exocytosis in neurons and neuroendocrine cells, and are thus likely to regulate pituitary hormone secretion. Here we show that numerous syt isoforms are highly expressed in the pituitary gland in a lobe, and sex-specific manner. We further investigated a Ca(2+)-activated isoform, syt-9, and found that it is expressed in a subpopulation of anterior pituitary cells, the gonadotropes. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and syt-9 are highly co-localized in female, but not male, mice. Loss of syt-9 results in diminished basal and stimulated FSH secretion only in females, resulting in alterations in the oestrus cycle. This work uncovers a new function for syt-9 and reveals a novel sex difference in reproductive hormone secretion.
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44
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Simpson JL. Genetics of female infertility due to anomalies of the ovary and mullerian ducts. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1154:39-73. [PMID: 24782005 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0659-8_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Genetic factors are pivotal in reproductive development and subsequent reproductive processes. If disturbed, infertility can occur. In the female, genetic factors affecting the ovary and the uterus are not uncommon causes of infertility. Terminal deletions on the X long arm and X short arm and X chromosomal mosaicism have long been accepted as causes of premature ovarian failure (POF). Responsible genes on the X have not yet elucidated. Attractive candidate genes for POF also exist on autosomes, and in over a dozen genes molecular perturbations are documented in non-syndromic POF. The most common single-gene cause of POF is premutation carriers for FMR1 (fragile X syndrome). As other candidate genes and additional ethnic groups are interrogated, the proportion of POF cases due to single-gene mutation will increase. Among uterine anomalies, incomplete mullerian fusion is most common. Increased recurrence risks for first-degree relatives confirm a role for genetic factors; interrogation of candidate genes is under way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Leigh Simpson
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, AHC2 693, Miami, FL, 33199, USA,
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45
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Hagen CP, Sørensen K, Aksglaede L, Mouritsen A, Mieritz MG, Tinggaard J, Wohlfart-Veje C, Petersen JH, Main KM, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Almstrup K, Juul A. Pubertal onset in girls is strongly influenced by genetic variation affecting FSH action. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6412. [PMID: 25231187 PMCID: PMC4166707 DOI: 10.1038/srep06412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Age at pubertal onset varies substantially in healthy girls. Although genetic factors are responsible for more than half of the phenotypic variation, only a small part has been attributed to specific genetic polymorphisms identified so far. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates ovarian follicle maturation and estradiol synthesis which is responsible for breast development. We assessed the effect of three polymorphisms influencing FSH action on age at breast deveopment in a population-based cohort of 964 healthy girls. Girls homozygous for FSHR -29AA (reduced FSH receptor expression) entered puberty 7.4 (2.5–12.4) months later than carriers of the common variants FSHR -29GG+GA, p = 0.003. To our knowledge, this is the strongest genetic effect on age at pubertal onset in girls published to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper P Hagen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kaspar Sørensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Aksglaede
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Annette Mouritsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel G Mieritz
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jeanette Tinggaard
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christine Wohlfart-Veje
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Holm Petersen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katharina M Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Shiraishi K. Hormonal therapy for non-obstructive azoospermia: basic and clinical perspectives. Reprod Med Biol 2014; 14:65-72. [PMID: 29259404 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-014-0193-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a standard therapeutic option for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Hormonal treatment has been believed to be ineffective for NOA because of high gonadotropin levels; however, several studies have stimulated spermatogenesis before or after micro-TESE by using anti-estrogens, aromatase inhibitors, and gonadotropins. These results remain controversial; however, it is obvious that some of the patients showed a distinct improvement in sperm retrieval by micro-TESE, and sperm was observed in the ejaculates of a small number of NOA patients. One potential way to improve spermatogenesis is by optimizing the intratesticular testosterone (ITT) levels. ITT has been shown to be increased after hCG-based hormonal therapy. The androgen receptor that is located on Sertoli cells plays a major role in spermatogenesis, and other hormonal and non-hormonal factors may also be involved. Before establishing a new hormonal treatment protocol to stimulate spermatogenesis in NOA patients, further basic investigations regarding the pathophysiology of spermatogenic impairment are needed. Gaining a better understanding of this issue will allow us to tailor a specific treatment for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Shiraishi
- Department of Urology Yamaguchi University School of Medicine 755-8505 Ube Yamaguchi Japan
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Trabado S, Lamothe S, Maione L, Bouvattier C, Sarfati J, Brailly-Tabard S, Young J. Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and Kallmann syndrome as models for studying hormonal regulation of human testicular endocrine functions. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2014; 75:79-87. [PMID: 24815726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2014.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Men with Kallmann syndrome (KS) and those with congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with normal olfaction share a chronic, usually profound deficit, in FSH and LH, the two pituitary gonadotropins. Many studies indicate that this gonadotropin deficiency is already present during fetal life, thus explaining the micropenis, cryptorchidism and marked testicular hypotrophy already present at birth. In addition, neonatal activation of gonadotropin secretion is compromised in boys with severe CHH/Kallmann, preventing the first phase of postnatal testicular activation. Finally, CHH is characterized by the persistence, in the vast majority of cases, of gonadotropin deficiency at the time of puberty and during adulthood. This prevents the normal pubertal testicular reactivation required for physiological sex steroid and testicular peptide production, and for spermatogenesis. CHH/KS thus represents a pathological paradigm that can help to unravel, in vivo, the role of each gonadotropin in human testicular exocrine and endocrine functions at different stages of development. Recombinant gonadotropins with pure LH or FSH activity have been used to stimulate Leydig's cells and Sertoli's cells, respectively, and thereby to clarify their paracrine interaction in vivo. The effects of these pharmacological probes can be assessed by measuring the changes they provoke in circulating testicular hormone concentrations. This review discusses the impact of chronic gonadotropin deficiency on the endocrine functions of the interstitial compartment, which contains testosterone-, estradiol- and INSL3-secreting Leydig's cells. It also examines the regulation of inhibin B and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) secretion in the seminiferous tubules, and the insights provided by studies of human testicular stimulation with recombinant gonadotropins, used either individually or in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Trabado
- Inserm U693, université Paris-Sud, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Laboratoire d'hormonologie et génétique, hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Sophie Lamothe
- Service d'endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Luigi Maione
- Service d'endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Claire Bouvattier
- Département d'endocrinologie pédiatrique, hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Julie Sarfati
- Service d'endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Sylvie Brailly-Tabard
- Inserm U693, université Paris-Sud, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Laboratoire d'hormonologie et génétique, hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Jacques Young
- Inserm U693, université Paris-Sud, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Service d'endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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Fortin J, Boehm U, Deng CX, Treier M, Bernard DJ. Follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis and fertility depend on SMAD4 and FOXL2. FASEB J 2014; 28:3396-410. [PMID: 24739304 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-249532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an essential regulator of gonadal function and fertility. Loss-of-function mutations in the FSHB/Fshb gene cause hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in humans and mice. Both gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and activins, members of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, stimulate FSH synthesis; yet, their relative roles and mechanisms of action in vivo are unknown. Here, using conditional gene-targeting, we show that the canonical mediator of TGFβ superfamily signaling, SMAD4, is absolutely required for normal FSH synthesis in both male and female mice. Moreover, when the Smad4 gene is ablated in combination with its DNA binding cofactor Foxl2 in gonadotrope cells, mice make essentially no FSH and females are sterile. Indeed, the phenotype of these animals is remarkably similar to that of Fshb-knockout mice. Not only do these results establish SMAD4 and FOXL2 as essential master regulators of Fshb transcription in vivo, they also suggest that activins, or related ligands, could play more important roles in FSH synthesis than GnRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada;
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Saarland School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA; and
| | - Mathias Treier
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada;
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Karakaya C, Guzeloglu-Kayisli O, Hobbs RJ, Gerasimova T, Uyar A, Erdem M, Oktem M, Erdem A, Gumuslu S, Ercan D, Sakkas D, Comizzoli P, Seli E, Lalioti MD. Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) alternative skipping of exon 2 or 3 affects ovarian response to FSH. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:630-43. [PMID: 24670307 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Genes critical for fertility are highly conserved in mammals. Interspecies DNA sequence variation, resulting in amino acid substitutions and post-transcriptional modifications, including alternative splicing, are a result of evolution and speciation. The mammalian follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene encodes distinct species-specific forms by alternative splicing. Skipping of exon 2 of the human FSHR was reported in women of North American origin and correlated with low response to ovarian stimulation with exogenous follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). To determine whether this variant correlated with low response in women of different genetic backgrounds, we performed a blinded retrospective observational study in a Turkish cohort. Ovarian response was determined as low, intermediate or high according to retrieved oocyte numbers after classifying patients in four age groups (<35, 35-37, 38-40, >40). Cumulus cells collected from 96 women undergoing IVF/ICSI following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation revealed four alternatively spliced FSHR products in seven patients (8%): exon 2 deletion in four patients; exon 3 and exons 2 + 3 deletion in one patient each, and a retention of an intron 1 fragment in one patient. In all others (92%) splicing was intact. Alternative skipping of exons 2, 3 or 2 + 3 were exclusive to low responders and was independent of the use of agonist or antagonist. Interestingly, skipping of exon 3 occurs naturally in the ovaries of domestic cats--a good comparative model for human fertility. We tested the signaling potential of human and cat variants after transfection in HEK293 cells and FSH stimulation. None of the splicing variants initiated cAMP signaling despite high FSH doses, unlike full-length proteins. These data substantiate the occurrence of FSHR exon skipping in a subgroup of low responders and suggest that species-specific regulation of FSHR splicing plays diverse roles in mammalian ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cengiz Karakaya
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Ozlem Guzeloglu-Kayisli
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA Present address: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Rebecca J Hobbs
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA Present address: Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Duboo, NSW 2830, Australia
| | - Tsilya Gerasimova
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Asli Uyar
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Mehmet Erdem
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Mesut Oktem
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Ahmet Erdem
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Seyhan Gumuslu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Deniz Ercan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVF Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500 Turkey
| | - Denny Sakkas
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA Present address: Boston IVF, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Emre Seli
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Maria D Lalioti
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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[Genetic aspects of fertility disorders]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2013; 56:1642-52. [PMID: 24337126 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-013-1860-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Genetic disorders of fertility can occur at the level of gonadal differentiation or function, germ cell production or function, and the genital ducts. In gonadal dysgenesis, the differentiation of testes or ovaries is impaired. Gonadal dysgenesis can be caused by chromosome aberrations or monogenetic defects in XY or XX gonadal dysgenesis. For the biosynthesis of sexual hormones, a normal development of the gonads and an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is necessary. Disorders of steroid hormone synthesis are associated with an increased or diminished production of sexual hormones. Clinical and genetic aspects of adrenogenital syndrome are discussed here. Mutations of the androgen receptor cause a spectrum of androgen insensitivity ranging from women with female external genitalia through patients with genital ambiguity to men with infertility. Disturbed spermatogenesis is heterogeneous and can be the result of chromosome aberrations such as Klinefelter syndrome or structural aberrations as translocations and microdeletions of the Y chromosome. Premature ovarian failure is characterized by amenorrhea and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism before 40 years of age. Beside nongenetic factors, premature ovarian failure can be caused by chromosome aberrations or monogenetic defects. Disorders of the genital ducts such as anomalies of the müllerian ducts in females and of the wolffian ducts in males can be associated with sterility or infertility.
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