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Medina J, De Guzman RM, Workman JL. Prolactin mitigates chronic stress-induced maladaptive behaviors and physiology in ovariectomized female rats. Neuropharmacology 2024; 258:110095. [PMID: 39084597 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110095] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Stress is a major risk factor for several neuropsychiatric disorders in women, including postpartum depression. During the postpartum period, diminished ovarian hormone secretion increases susceptibility to developing depressive symptoms. Pleiotropic peptide hormones, like prolactin, are markedly released during lactation and suppress hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses in women and acute stress-induced behavioral responses in female rodents. However, the effects of prolactin on chronic stress-induced maladaptive behaviors remain unclear. Here, we used chronic variable stress to induce maladaptive physiology in ovariectomized female rats and concurrently administered prolactin to assess its effects on several depression-relevant behavioral, endocrine, and neural characteristics. We found that chronic stress increased sucrose anhedonia and passive coping in saline-treated, but not prolactin-treated rats. Prolactin treatment did not alter stress-induced thigmotaxis, corticosterone (CORT) concentrations, hippocampal cell activation or survival. However, prolactin treatment reduced basal CORT concentrations and increased dopaminergic cells in the ventral tegmental area. Further, prolactin-treated rats had reduced microglial activation in the ventral hippocampus following chronic stress exposure. Together, these data suggest prolactin mitigates chronic stress-induced maladaptive behaviors and physiology in hypogonadal females. Moreover, these findings imply neuroendocrine-immune mechanisms by which peptide hormones confer stress resilience during periods of low ovarian hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Medina
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, NY, 12222, USA.
| | - Rose M De Guzman
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Joanna L Workman
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, NY, 12222, USA; Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
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2
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Li Y, Zhou L, Xiao L, Wang H, Wang G. Wheel Running During Pregnancy Alleviates Anxiety-and Depression-Like Behaviors During the Postpartum Period in Mice: The Roles of NLRP3 Neuroinflammasome Activation, Prolactin, and the Prolactin Receptor in the Hippocampus. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:2615-2635. [PMID: 38904910 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04180-2] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Despite the increase in the prevalence of postpartum depression among maternal disorder, its treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. Studies have shown that exercise can reduce postpartum depressive episodes in the mother, but the effects of exercise during pregnancy on maternal behavior and the potential mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. From the second day of pregnancy to the day of birth, dams exercised for 1 h a day by running on a controlled wheel. The maternal behaviors of the dams were assessed on postpartum day 2 to postpartum day 8. Chronic restraint stress was applied from postpartum day 2 to day 12. Blood was collected on postpartum days 3 and 8, then subjected to ELISA to determine the serum concentration of prolactin. The weight of each dam and the food intake were recorded. Anxiety- and depression-like behavioral tests were conducted, and hippocampal neuroinflammation and prolactin receptor levels were measured. The dams exhibited elevated levels of anxiety and depression, decreased serum prolactin levels, decreased prolactin receptor expression, and activation of NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation in the hippocampus following the induction of postpartum chronic restraint stress, which were reversed with controlled wheel running during pregnancy. Overall, the findings of this study revealed that the preventive effects of exercise during pregnancy on postpartum anxiety-and depression-like behaviors were accompanied by increased serum prolactin levels, hippocampal prolactin receptor expression and hippocampal NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Ling Xiao
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Huiling Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Gaohua Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China.
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road No. 238, Wuhan, 430060, China.
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3
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Grattan DR. Does the brain make prolactin? J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13432. [PMID: 39041379 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The prolactin receptor (Prlr) is widely expressed in the brain, particularly in the hypothalamus. Prolactin also has an increasing range of well-characterised effects on central nervous system function. Because of this, over many years, there has been interest in whether the hormone itself is also expressed within the brain, perhaps acting as a neuropeptide to regulate brain function via its receptor in neurons. The aim of this invited review is to critically evaluate the evidence for brain production of prolactin. Unlike the evidence for the Prlr, evidence for brain prolactin is inconsistent and variable. A range of different antibodies have been used, each characterising a different distribution of prolactin-like immunoreactivity. Prolactin mRNA has been detected in the brain, but only at levels markedly lower than seen in the pituitary gland. Importantly, it has largely only been detected by highly sensitive amplification-based techniques, and the extreme sensitivity means there is a risk of false-positive data. Modern in situ hybridisation methods and single-cell RNA sequencing have not provided supporting evidence, but it is hard to prove a negative! Finally, I acknowledge and discuss the possibility that prolactin might be produced in the brain under specific circumstances, such as to promote a neuroprotective response to cell damage. Collectively, however, based on this analysis, I have formed the opinion that brain production of prolactin is unlikely, and even if occurs, it is of little physiological consequence. Most, if not all of the brain actions of prolactin can be explained by pituitary prolactin gaining access to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Grattan
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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Cerbantez-Bueno V, Viñuela-Berni V, Muñoz-Mayorga DE, Morales T, Corona R. Prolactin promotes the recruitment of main olfactory bulb cells and enhances the behavioral exploration toward a socio-sexual stimulus in female mice. Horm Behav 2024; 162:105527. [PMID: 38492348 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Olfactory communication is triggered by pheromones that profoundly influence neuroendocrine responses to drive social interactions. Two principal olfactory systems process pheromones: the main and the vomeronasal or accessory system. Prolactin receptors are expressed in both systems suggesting a participation in the processing of olfactory information. We previously reported that prolactin participates in the sexual and olfactory bulb maturation of females. Therefore, we explored the expression of prolactin receptors within the olfactory bulb during sexual maturation and the direct responses of prolactin upon pheromonal exposure. Additionally, we assessed the behavioral response of adult females exposed to male sawdust after prolactin administration and the consequent activation of main and accessory olfactory bulb and their first central relays, the piriform cortex and the medial amygdala. Last, we investigated the intracellular pathway activated by prolactin within the olfactory bulb. Here, prolactin receptor expression remained constant during all maturation stages within the main olfactory bulb but decreased in adulthood in the accessory olfactory bulb. Behaviorally, females that received prolactin actively explored the male stimulus. An increased cFos activation in the amygdala and in the glomerular cells of the whole olfactory bulb was observed, but an augmented response in the mitral cells was only found within the main olfactory bulb after prolactin administration and the exposure to male stimulus. Interestingly, the ERK pathway was upregulated in the main olfactory bulb after exposure to a male stimulus. Overall, our results suggest that, in female mice, prolactin participates in the processing of chemosignals and behavioral responses by activating the main olfactory system and diminishing the classical vomeronasal response to pheromones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viridiana Cerbantez-Bueno
- Laboratorio de Neuroanatomía Funcional y Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Neurobiología (INB), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Verónica Viñuela-Berni
- Laboratorio de Neuroanatomía Funcional y Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Neurobiología (INB), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Daniel Eduardo Muñoz-Mayorga
- Laboratorio de Neuroanatomía Funcional y Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Neurobiología (INB), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Teresa Morales
- Laboratorio de Neuroanatomía Funcional y Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Neurobiología (INB), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Rebeca Corona
- Laboratorio de Neuroanatomía Funcional y Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Neurobiología (INB), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico.
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De la Torre K, Cerbón MA, Molina-Salinas G, Suárez-Santiago JE, Morin JP, Roldán-Roldán G, Picazo O. Synergistic neuroprotective action of prolactin and 17β-estradiol on kainic acid-induced hippocampal injury and long-term memory deficit in ovariectomized rats. Hormones (Athens) 2024; 23:321-329. [PMID: 38625627 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-024-00551-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The neuroprotective actions of the ovarian hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) against different brain lesions have been constantly confirmed in a variety of models including kainic acid (KA) lesions. Similarly, the pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL), traditionally associated with lactogenesis, has recently been linked to a large diversity of functions, including neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and cognitive processes. While the mechanisms of actions of E2 as regards its neuroprotective and behavioral effects have been extensively explored, the molecular mechanisms of PRL related to these roles remain under investigation. The current study aimed to investigate whether the simultaneous administration of PRL and a low dose of E2 prevents the KA-induced cognitive deficit and if this action is associated with changes in hippocampal neuronal density. METHODS Ovariectomized (OVX) rats were treated with saline, PRL, and/or E2 in the presence or absence of KA. Neuroprotection was assessed by Nissl staining and neuron counting. Memory was evaluated with the novel object recognition test (NOR). RESULTS On their own, both PRL and E2 prevented short- and long-term memory deficits in lesioned animals and exerted neuroprotection against KA-induced excitotoxicity in the hippocampus. Interestingly, the combined hormonal treatment was superior to either of the treatments administered alone as regards improving both memory and neuronal survival. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results point to a synergic effect of E2 and PRL in the hippocampus to produce their behavioral, proliferative, and neuroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen De la Torre
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Sto. Tomás, 11340. Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Marco Antonio Cerbón
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gladys Molina-Salinas
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - José Eduardo Suárez-Santiago
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Sto. Tomás, 11340. Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México, México
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico
| | - Jean-Pascal Morin
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gabriel Roldán-Roldán
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México.
| | - Ofir Picazo
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Sto. Tomás, 11340. Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México, México.
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Hoang NMH, Nguyen HD, Jo W, Kim MS. Role of prolactin in the protective effect of amisulpride against 1,2-Diacetylbenzene's neurotoxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 107:104418. [PMID: 38493881 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to organic solvents is associated with various health problems, including neurodegenerative diseases. Among these solvents, 1,2-diethylbenzene is notable for its ability to produce a toxic metabolite, 1,2-Diacetylbenzene (DAB), which can cause memory impairment. Prolactin (PRL) is theorized to protect the central nervous system. Certain antipsychotic drugs, known for increasing PRL secretion, have shown to improve cognitive performance in psychotic Alzheimer's patients. Among these, amisulpride stands out for its high efficacy, limited side effects, and high selectivity for dopamine D2 receptors. In our study, we explored the potential of amisulpride to inhibit DAB-induced neurotoxicity via PRL activation. Our results show that amisulpride enhances the PRL/JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT, and BDNF/ERK/CREB pathways, playing critical roles in PRL's neuroprotection pathways and memory formation. Additionally, amisulpride inhibited DAB-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis. Collectively, these findings suggest that amisulpride may be a promising therapeutic intervention for DAB-induced neurotoxicity, partly through activating the PRL pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc Minh-Hong Hoang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Jeonnam 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai Duc Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Jeonnam 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonhee Jo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Jeonnam 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Sun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Jeonnam 57922, Republic of Korea.
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Nguyen HD, Jo WH, Hoang NHM, Kim MS. Risperidone ameliorated 1,2-Diacetylbenzene-induced cognitive impairments in mice via activating prolactin signaling pathways. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 115:109726. [PMID: 36641890 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment and organic solvent exposure have been becoming public health concerns due to an increasingly aging population, increased life expectancy, urbanization, and industrialization. Converging evidence indicates the link between 1,2-diacetylbenzene (DAB), prolactin (PRL), risperidone, and cognitive impairment. However, these relationships remain unclear. We investigated the therapeutic properties of risperidone in DAB-induced cognitive impairment using both in vivo and in silico methods. Risperidone alleviated DAB-induced cognitive impairment in hippocampal mice, possibly by inhibiting GSK-3β, β-amyloid, CDK5, BACE, and tau hyperphosphorylation. Risperidone also attenuated the activation of TREM-1/DAP12/NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β, and TLR4/NF-κB pathways caused by DAB. Furthermore, risperidone inhibited DAB-induced oxidative stress, advanced glycation end products, and proinflammatory cytokines, as well as increased the expression of Nrf2, IL-10, Stat3, MDM2, and catalase activity. On the other hand, risperidone activated the expression of IRS1, PI3K, AKT, BDNF, Drd2, Scna5, and Trt as well as reduced the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and Caspase-3 levels. In silico analyses identified the prolactin signaling pathway, miR-155-5p, miR-34a-5p, and CEBPB as the main molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of DAB-induced cognitive impairment and targeted by risperidone. Our results suggest that risperidone could be used to treat cognitive impairment caused by organic solvents, especially DAB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Duc Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Hee Jo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Ngoc Hong Minh Hoang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Sun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea.
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In silico identification of the potential molecular mechanisms involved in protective effects of prolactin on motor and memory deficits induced by 1,2-Diacetylbenzene in young and old rats. Neurotoxicology 2022; 93:45-59. [PMID: 36100143 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to identify the molecular mechanisms through which prolactin protects against 1,2-Diacetylbenzene (DAB)-induced memory and motor impairments. The gene expression omnibus database (no. GSE119435), transcriptomic data, GeneMANIA, ToppGeneSuite, Metascape, STRING database, Cytoscape, and Autodock were used as the core tools in in-silico analyses. We observed that prolactin may improve memory and motor deficits caused by DAB via 13 genes (Scn5a, Lmntd1, LOC100360619, Rgs9, Srpk3, Syndig1l, Gpr88, Egr2, Ctxn3, Drd2, Ttr, Gpr6, and Ecel1) in young rats and 9 genes (Scn5a, Chat, RGD1560608, Ucma, Lrrc31, Gpr88, Col1a2, Cnbd1, and Ttr) in old rats. Almost all of these genes were downregulated in both young and old rats given DAB, but they were increased in both young and old rats given prolactin. Co-expression interactions were identified as the most important interactions (83.2 % for young rats and 100 % for old rats). The most important mechanisms associated with prolactin's ability to counteract DAB were identified, including "learning and memory," and "positive regulation of ion transport" in young rats, as well as "acetylcholine related pathways," "inflammatory response pathway," and "neurotransmitter release cycle" in old rats. We also identified several key miRNAs associated with memory and motor deficits, as well as prolactin and DAB exposure (rno-miR-141-3p, rno-miR-200a-3p, rno-miR-124-3p, rno-miR-26, and rno-let-7 families). The most significant transcription factors associated with differentially expressed gene regulation were Six3, Rxrg, Nkx26, and Tbx20. These findings will contribute to our understanding of the processes through which prolactin's beneficial effects counteract DAB-induced memory and motor deficits.
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Ramos-Martínez E, Ramos-Martínez I, Valencia J, Ramos-Martínez JC, Hernández-Zimbrón L, Rico-Luna A, Pérez-Campos E, Pérez-Campos Mayoral L, Cerbón M. Modulatory role of prolactin in type 1 diabetes. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2022; 44:79-88. [PMID: 35852366 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2022-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus have been reported to have elevated prolactin levels and a possible relationship between prolactin levels and the development of the disease has been proposed. However, some studies show that prolactin mediates beneficial functions in beta cells. Therefore, we review information on the roles of prolactin in type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Content
Here we summarize the functions of prolactin in the immune system and in pancreatic beta cells, in addition, we describe studies related to PRL levels, its regulation and alterations of secretion in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Summary
Studies in murine models have shown that prolactin protects beta cells from apoptosis, stimulates their proliferation and promotes pancreatic islet revascularization. In addition, some studies in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus have shown that elevated prolactin levels correlate with better disease control.
Outlook
Prolactin treatment appears to be a promising strategy to improve beta-cell vascularization and proliferation in transplantation and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Ramos-Martínez
- Facultad de Química , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Ciudad de México , México
| | - Ivan Ramos-Martínez
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia de Cerdos, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Ciudad de México , México
| | - Jorge Valencia
- Endocrine Research Unit , UMAE Hospital de Especialidades, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social , Ciudad de México , México
| | - Juan Carlos Ramos-Martínez
- Cardiology Department , Hospital General Regional Lic Ignacio Garcia Tellez IMSS , Mérida , Yucatán , México
| | - Luis Hernández-Zimbrón
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Licenciatura en Optometría, Unidad León , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Ciudad de México , México
| | - Anaiza Rico-Luna
- Facultad de Química , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Ciudad de México , México
| | | | - Laura Pérez-Campos Mayoral
- Research Centre Medicine UNAM-UABJO. Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de Oaxaca , Oaxaca , México
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Ciudad de México , México
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Nguyen HD, Jo WH, Hoang NHM, Yu BP, Chung HY, Kim MS. 1,2-Diacetylbenzene impaired hippocampal memory by activating proinflammatory cytokines and upregulating the prolactin pathway: An in vivo and in vitro study. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 108:108901. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Sex-dependent pain trajectories induced by prolactin require an inflammatory response for pain resolution. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 101:246-263. [PMID: 35065194 PMCID: PMC9173405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain development and resolution patterns in many diseases are sex-dependent. This study aimed to develop pain models with sex-dependent resolution trajectories, and identify factors linked to resolution of pain in females and males. Using different intra-plantar (i.pl.) treatment protocols with prolactin (PRL), we established models with distinct, sex-dependent patterns for development and resolution of pain. An acute PRL-evoked pain trajectory, in which hypersensitivity is fully resolved within 1 day, showed substantial transcriptional changes after pain-resolution in female and male hindpaws and in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). This finding supports the notion that pain resolution is an active process. Prolonged treatment with PRL high dose (1 μg) evoked mechanical hypersensitivity that resolved within 5-7 days in mice of both sexes and exhibited a pro-inflammatory transcriptional response in the hindpaw, but not DRG, at the time point preceding resolution. Flow cytometry analysis linked pro-inflammatory responses in female hindpaws to macrophages/monocytes, especially CD11b+/CD64+/MHCII+ cell accumulation. Prolonged low dose PRL (0.1 μg) treatment caused non-resolving mechanical hypersensitivity only in females. This effect was independent of sensory neuronal PRLR and was associated with a lack of immune response in the hindpaw, although many genes underlying tissue damage were affected. We conclude that different i.pl. PRL treatment protocols generates distinct, sex-specific pain hypersensitivity resolution patterns. PRL-induced pain resolution is preceded by a pro-inflammatory macrophage/monocyte-associated response in the hindpaws of mice of both sexes. On the other hand, the absence of a peripheral inflammatory response creates a permissive condition for PRL-induced pain persistency in females.
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Carretero-Hernández M, Catalano-Iniesta L, Blanco EJ, García-Barrado MJ, Carretero J. Highlights regarding prolactin in the dentate gyrus and hippocampus. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2022; 118:479-505. [PMID: 35180938 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) is a pituitary hormone that has been typically related to lactogenesis in mammals. However, it has been described over 300 roles in the organism of vertebrae and its relationship with the central nervous system (CNS) is yet to be clarified. Mainly secreted by the pituitary gland, the source of prolactin in the CNS remains unclear, where some experiments suggest active transport via an unknown carrier or, on the contrary, PRL being synthesized on the brain. So far, it seems to be involved with neurogenesis, neuroprotection, maternal behavior and cognitive processes in the hippocampus and dentate gyrus, among other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Carretero-Hernández
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Spain; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCyL), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Obesity, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Leonardo Catalano-Iniesta
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Spain; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCyL), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Obesity, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Spain
| | - Enrique J Blanco
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Spain; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCyL), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Obesity, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Spain
| | - María José García-Barrado
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCyL), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Obesity, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Spain; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Spain
| | - José Carretero
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Spain; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCyL), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Obesity, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Spain
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13
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Costa-Brito AR, Gonçalves I, Santos CRA. The brain as a source and a target of prolactin in mammals. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:1695-1702. [PMID: 35017416 PMCID: PMC8820687 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.332124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone associated with an extensive variety of biological functions. Among the roles of prolactin in vertebrates, some were preserved throughout evolution. This is the case of its function in the brain, where prolactin receptors, are expressed in different structures of the central nervous system. In the brain, prolactin actions are principally associated with reproduction and parental behavior, and involves the modulation of adult neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and neuroplasticity, especially during pregnancy, thereby preparing the brain to parenthood. Prolactin is mainly produced by specialized cells in the anterior pituitary gland. However, during vertebrate evolution many other extrapituitary tissues do also produce prolactin, like the immune system, endothelial cells, reproductive structures and in several regions of the brain. This review summarizes the relevance of prolactin for brain function, the sources of prolactin in the central nervous system, as well as its local production and secretion. A highlight on the impact of prolactin in human neurological diseases is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Costa-Brito
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Isabel Gonçalves
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre; C4-UBI -Cloud Computing Competence Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cecília R A Santos
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre; C4-UBI -Cloud Computing Competence Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
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Duc Nguyen H, Hoang NMH, Ko M, Seo D, Kim S, Jo WH, Bae JW, Kim MS. Association between Serum Prolactin Levels and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Neuroimmunomodulation 2022; 29:85-96. [PMID: 34670217 DOI: 10.1159/000519552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prolactin (PRL) exerts inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties and is also thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). However, serum PRL levels in patients with NDs were inconsistent in the research literature. OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the serum PRL levels in patients with NDs. METHODS Electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library database, clinicaltrials.gov, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, and reference lists of articles were searched up to December 31, 2020. Pooled standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated by fixed-effect or random-effect model analysis. RESULTS A total of 36 comparisons out of 29 studies (3 RCTs and 26 case controls) focusing on NDs (including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease [HD], multiple sclerosis [MS], and epilepsy) were reported. The meta-analysis showed that there was no statistically significant difference in serum PRL levels between patients with NDs and healthy controls (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI: -0.16 to 0.96, p = 0.16). Subgroup analysis showed that serum PRL levels in patients with HD and MS were higher than those of healthy controls. Furthermore, patients with NDs aged <45 years had higher serum PRL levels (SMD = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.16-1.78, p = 0.018) than healthy controls. High serum PRL levels were found in subgroups such as the microenzymatic method, Asia, and the Americas. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis showed serum PRL levels in patients with HD and MS were significantly higher than those in healthy controls. Serum PRL levels were associated with age, region, and detection method. Other larger sample studies using more uniform detection methods are necessary to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Duc Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ngoc Minh Hong Hoang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeonghee Ko
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjin Seo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Shinhyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Hee Jo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Woo Bae
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Sun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
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15
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Duc Nguyen H, Pal Yu B, Hoang NHM, Jo WH, Young Chung H, Kim MS. Prolactin and Its Altered Action in Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:427-445. [PMID: 34126620 DOI: 10.1159/000517798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prolactin (PRL) is one of the most diverse pituitary hormones and is known to modulate normal neuronal function and neurodegenerative conditions. Many studies have described the influence that PRL has on the central nervous system and addressed its contribution to neurodegeneration, but little is known about the mechanisms responsible for the effects of PRL on neurodegenerative disorders, especially on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). SUMMARY We review and summarize the existing literature and current understanding of the roles of PRL on various PRL aspects of AD and PD. KEY MESSAGES In general, PRL is viewed as a promising molecule for the treatment of AD and PD. Modulation of PRL functions and targeting of immune mechanisms are needed to devise preventive or therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Duc Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Pal Yu
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Ngoc Hong Minh Hoang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Hee Jo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Young Chung
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Sun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
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16
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Paredes O, López JB, Covantes-Osuna C, Ocegueda-Hernández V, Romo-Vázquez R, Morales JA. A Transcriptome Community-and-Module Approach of the Human Mesoconnectome. ENTROPY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 23:1031. [PMID: 34441171 PMCID: PMC8393183 DOI: 10.3390/e23081031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Graph analysis allows exploring transcriptome compartments such as communities and modules for brain mesostructures. In this work, we proposed a bottom-up model of a gene regulatory network to brain-wise connectome workflow. We estimated the gene communities across all brain regions from the Allen Brain Atlas transcriptome database. We selected the communities method to yield the highest number of functional mesostructures in the network hierarchy organization, which allowed us to identify specific brain cell functions (e.g., neuroplasticity, axonogenesis and dendritogenesis communities). With these communities, we built brain-wise region modules that represent the connectome. Our findings match with previously described anatomical and functional brain circuits, such the default mode network and the default visual network, supporting the notion that the brain dynamics that carry out low- and higher-order functions originate from the modular composition of a GRN complex network.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rebeca Romo-Vázquez
- Computer Sciences Department, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Centre, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44430, Mexico; (O.P.); (J.B.L.); (C.C.-O.); (V.O.-H.)
| | - J. Alejandro Morales
- Computer Sciences Department, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Centre, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44430, Mexico; (O.P.); (J.B.L.); (C.C.-O.); (V.O.-H.)
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17
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Jayakumar P, Martínez-Moreno CG, Lorenson MY, Walker AM, Morales T. Prolactin Attenuates Neuroinflammation in LPS-Activated SIM-A9 Microglial Cells by Inhibiting NF-κB Pathways Via ERK1/2. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:2171-2186. [PMID: 33821330 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01087-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) is a pleiotropic hormone with multiple functions in several tissues and organs, including the brain. PRL decreases lesion-induced microgliosis and modifies gene expression related to microglial functions in the hippocampus, thereby providing a possible mechanism through which it might participate in neuroimmune modulatory responses and prevent neuronal cell damage. However, the direct contribution of microglial cells to PRL-mediated neuroprotection is still unclear and no studies have yet documented whether PRL can directly activate cellular pathways in microglial cells. The aim of this study is to elucidate in vitro actions of PRL on the immortalized SIM-A9 microglia cell line in basal and LPS-stimulated conditions. PRL alone induced a time-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation. Pretreatment with PRL attenuated LPS (200 ng/ml) stimulated pro-inflammatory markers: nitric oxide (NO) levels, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukins (IL)-6, -1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) expression at 20 nM dosage. PRL suppressed LPS-induced nuclear factor (NF)-κappaB (NF-κB) p65 subunit phosphorylation and its upstream p-ERK1/2 activity. In conclusion, PRL exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-stimulated SIM-A9 microglia by downregulating pro-inflammatory mediators corresponding to suppression of LPS-activated ERK1/2 and NF-κB phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preethi Jayakumar
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Carlos G Martínez-Moreno
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Mary Y Lorenson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Ameae M Walker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Teresa Morales
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico.
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18
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Decoding signaling pathways involved in prolactin-induced neuroprotection: A review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 61:100913. [PMID: 33766566 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
It has been well recognized that prolactin (PRL), a pleiotropic hormone, has many functions in the brain, such as maternal behavior, neurogenesis, and neuronal plasticity, among others. Recently, it has been reported to have a significant role in neuroprotection against excitotoxicity. Glutamate excitotoxicity is a common alteration in many neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, leading to neuronal death. In this sense, several efforts have been made to decrease the progression of these pathologies. Despite various reports of PRL's neuroprotective effect against excitotoxicity, the signaling pathways that underlie this mechanism remain unclear. This review aims to describe the most recent and relevant studies on the molecular signaling pathways, particularly, PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, and JAK2/STAT5, which are currently under investigation and might be implicated in the molecular mechanisms that explain the PRL effects against excitotoxicity and neuroprotection. Remarkable neuroprotective effects of PRL might be useful in the treatment of some neurological diseases.
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19
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Ramos-Martinez E, Ramos-Martínez I, Molina-Salinas G, Zepeda-Ruiz WA, Cerbon M. The role of prolactin in central nervous system inflammation. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:323-340. [PMID: 33661585 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin has been shown to favor both the activation and suppression of the microglia and astrocytes, as well as the release of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Prolactin has also been associated with neuronal damage in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and in experimental models of these diseases. However, studies show that prolactin has neuroprotective effects in conditions of neuronal damage and inflammation and may be used as neuroprotector factor. In this review, we first discuss general information about prolactin, then we summarize recent findings of prolactin function in inflammatory and anti-inflammatory processes and factors involved in the possible dual role of prolactin are described. Finally, we review the function of prolactin specifically in the central nervous system and how it promotes a neuroprotective effect, or that of neuronal damage, particularly in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and during excitotoxicity. The overall studies indicated that prolactin may be a promising molecule for the treatment of some neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Ramos-Martinez
- Escuela de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca68120, Mexico
- Instituto de Cómputo Aplicado en Ciencias, Oaxaca68000, Mexico
| | - Ivan Ramos-Martínez
- Glycobiology, Cell Growth and Tissue Repair Research Unit (Gly-CRRET), Université Paris Est Créteil (UPEC), 94010Créteil, France
| | - Gladys Molina-Salinas
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, 04510Coyoacan, Mexico
| | - Wendy A Zepeda-Ruiz
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, 04510Coyoacan, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbon
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, 04510Coyoacan, Mexico
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20
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Nuthikattu S, Milenkovic D, Rutledge JC, Villablanca AC. Sex-Dependent Molecular Mechanisms of Lipotoxic Injury in Brain Microvasculature: Implications for Dementia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8146. [PMID: 33142695 PMCID: PMC7663125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular risk factors and biologic sex play a role in vascular dementia which is characterized by progressive reduction in cognitive function and memory. Yet, we lack understanding about the role sex plays in the molecular mechanisms whereby lipid stress contributes to cognitive decline. Five-week-old low-density lipoprotein deficient (LDL-R -/-) male and female mice and C57BL/6J wild types (WT) were fed a control or Western Diet for 8 weeks. Differential expression of protein coding and non-protein coding genes (DEG) were determined in laser captured hippocampal microvessels using genome-wide microarray, followed by bioinformatic analysis of gene networks, pathways, transcription factors and sex/gender-based analysis (SGBA). Cognitive function was assessed by Y-maze. Bioinformatic analysis revealed more DEGs in females (2412) compared to males (1972). Hierarchical clusters revealed distinctly different sex-specific gene expression profiles irrespective of diet and genotype. There were also fewer and different biologic responses in males compared to females, as well as different cellular pathways and gene networks (favoring greater neuroprotection in females), together with sex-specific transcription factors and non-protein coding RNAs. Hyperlipidemic stress also resulted in less severe cognitive dysfunction in females. This sex-specific pattern of differential hippocampal microvascular RNA expression might provide therapeutic targets for dementia in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saivageethi Nuthikattu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (D.M.); (J.C.R.)
| | - Dragan Milenkovic
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (D.M.); (J.C.R.)
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - John C. Rutledge
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (D.M.); (J.C.R.)
| | - Amparo C. Villablanca
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (D.M.); (J.C.R.)
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