1
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Nguyen TMD, Nguyen TT, Combarnous Y. Single-chain human follicle-stimulating hormone with a di-N-glycosylated linker. Theriogenology 2024; 224:50-57. [PMID: 38733814 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.005] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The classic way to produce single-chain (sc) glycoprotein hormones is to fuse their two subunits through the carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) from human Choriogonadotropin (hCG). The CTP confers a longer half-life to single-chain hormones thanks to its four O-glycosyl side chains. However, unlike syncytiotrophoblastic cells, most cells used for recombinant protein production do not transfer O-glycosyl chains efficiently. We thus choose to fuse the hFSH subunits with a linker comprising two N-glycosyl side chains (sc-hFSH LNN) or none (sc-hFSH L0N), that were generated using two expression systems, HEK293 and CHO K1 cells. Their production levels and biological activities were tested and compared. Both expression systems successfully produced biologically active sc-hFSH, but, in our hands, CHO K1 cells yielded about 30-fold higher amounts of recombinant protein than HEK293 cells. Moreover, sc-hFSH L0N was considerably less expressed than sc-hFSH LNN in both cell types. Our data show that sc-hFSH L0N and sc-hFSH LNN produced from both cell lines stimulate cAMP and progesterone production in mLTC cells expressing hFSH receptors and exhibit similar B/I (in vitro Bioactivity/Immuno activity) ratios. Finally, the ratio of in vivo/in vitro bioactivities for sc-hFSH LNN relative to natural pituitary heterodimeric hFSH increased 8-fold, most likely because of a longer half-life in the blood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thi Tho Nguyen
- Quy Nhon University, Binh Dinh Province, Viet Nam; Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Viet Nam
| | - Yves Combarnous
- Joint INRAE, CNRS, Tours University Unit, Physiologie de La Reproduction & des Comportements (PRC), 37380, Nouzilly, France
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2
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Byambaragchaa M, Park SH, Kim SG, Shin MG, Kim SK, Park MH, Kang MH, Min KS. Stable Production of a Recombinant Single-Chain Eel Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Analog in CHO DG44 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7282. [PMID: 39000389 PMCID: PMC11242883 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to produce single-chain recombinant Anguillid eel follicle-stimulating hormone (rec-eel FSH) analogs with high activity in Cricetulus griseus ovary DG44 (CHO DG44) cells. We recently reported that an O-linked glycosylated carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) of the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) β-subunit contributes to high activity and time-dependent secretion in mammalian cells. We constructed a mutant (FSH-M), in which a linker including the eCG β-subunit CTP region (amino acids 115-149) was inserted between the β-subunit and α-subunit of wild-type single-chain eel FSH (FSH-wt). Plasmids containing eel FSH-wt and eel FSH-M were transfected into CHO DG44 cells, and single cells expressing each protein were isolated from 10 and 7 clones. Secretion increased gradually during the cultivation period and peaked at 4000-5000 ng/mL on day 9. The molecular weight of eel FSH-wt was 34-40 kDa, whereas that of eel FSH-M increased substantially, with two bands at 39-46 kDa. Treatment with PNGase F to remove the N glycosylation sites decreased the molecular weight remarkably to approximately 8 kDa. The EC50 value and maximal responsiveness of eel FSH-M were approximately 1.23- and 1.06-fold higher than those of eel FSH-wt, indicating that the mutant showed slightly higher biological activity. Phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase (pERK1/2) activation exhibited a sharp peak at 5 min, followed by a rapid decline. These findings indicate that the new rec-eel FSH molecule with the eCG β-subunit CTP linker shows potent activity and could be produced in massive quantities using the stable CHO DG44 cell system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munkhzaya Byambaragchaa
- Carbon-Neutral Resources Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
- Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea
| | - Sei Hyen Park
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (S.H.P.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Sang-Gwon Kim
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (S.H.P.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Min Gyu Shin
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea; (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | - Shin-Kwon Kim
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea; (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | | | - Myung-Hwa Kang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kwan-Sik Min
- Carbon-Neutral Resources Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
- Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea
- Division of Animal BioScience, School of Animal Life Convergence Sciences, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea
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3
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Byambaragchaa M, Park SH, Kim SG, Shin MG, Kim SK, Hur SP, Park MH, Kang MH, Min KS. Stable Production of a Tethered Recombinant Eel Luteinizing Hormone Analog with High Potency in CHO DG44 Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:6085-6099. [PMID: 38921034 PMCID: PMC11202772 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
We produced a recombinant eel luteinizing hormone (rec-eel LH) analog with high potency in Chinese hamster ovary DG44 (CHO DG44) cells. The tethered eel LH mutant (LH-M), which had a linker comprising the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eLH/CG) β-subunit carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) region (amino acids 115 to 149), was inserted between the β-subunit and α-subunit of wild-type tethered eel LH (LH-wt). Monoclonal cells transfected with the tethered eel LH-wt and eel LH-M plasmids were isolated from five to nine clones of CHO DG44 cells, respectively. The secreted quantities abruptly increased on day 3, with peak levels of 5000-7500 ng/mL on day 9. The molecular weight of tethered rec-eel LH-wt was 32-36 kDa, while that of tethered rec-eel LH-M increased to approximately 38-44 kDa, indicating the detection of two bands. Treatment with the peptide N-glycanase F decreased the molecular weight by approximately 8 kDa. The oligosaccharides at the eCG β-subunit O-linked glycosylation sites were appropriately modified post-translation. The EC50 value and maximal responsiveness of eel LH-M increased by approximately 2.90- and 1.29-fold, respectively, indicating that the mutant exhibited more potent biological activity than eel LH-wt. Phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase (pERK1/2) activation resulted in a sharp peak 5 min after agonist treatment, with a rapid decrease thereafter. These results indicate that the new tethered rec-eel LH analog had more potent activity in cAMP response than the tethered eel LH-wt in vitro. Taken together, this new eel LH analog can be produced in large quantities using a stable CHO DG44 cell system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munkhzaya Byambaragchaa
- Carbon-Neutral Resources Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (M.-H.P.)
| | - Sei Hyen Park
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sang-Gwon Kim
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
| | - Min Gyu Shin
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | - Shin-Kwon Kim
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | - Sung-Pyo Hur
- Department of Marine Life Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea;
| | - Myung-Hum Park
- Carbon-Neutral Resources Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (M.-H.P.)
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
| | - Myung-Hwa Kang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kwan-Sik Min
- Carbon-Neutral Resources Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (M.-H.P.)
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
- Division of Animal BioScience, School of Animal Life Convergence Sciences, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea
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Villarraza J, Antuña S, Tardivo MB, Rodríguez MC, Díaz PU, Notaro US, Ortega HH, Prieto C, Ceaglio N. Development of a biotechnology process for the production of a novel hyperglycosylated long-acting recombinant bovine follicle-stimulating hormone. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400260. [PMID: 38900054 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400260] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an important protein used for bovine ovarian hyperstimulation in multiple ovulation and embryo transfer technology (MOET). Several attempts to produce bovine FSH (bFSH) in recombinant systems have been reported, nonetheless, up to date, the most commonly used products are partially purified preparations derived from porcine or ovine (pFSH or oFSH) pituitaries. Here we describe the development of a biotechnology process to produce a novel, hyperglycosylated, long-acting recombinant bFSH (LA-rbFSH) by fusing copies of a highly O-glycosylated peptide. LA-rbFSH and a nonmodified version (rbFSH) were produced in suspension CHO cell cultures and purified by IMAC with high purity levels (>99%). LA-rbFSH presented a higher glycosylation degree and sialic acid content than rbFSH. It also demonstrated a notable improvement in pharmacokinetic properties after administration to rats, including a higher concentration in plasma and a significant (seven-fold) reduction in apparent clearance (CLapp). In addition, the in vivo specific bioactivity of LA-rbFSH in rats was 2.4-fold higher compared to rbFSH. These results postulate this new molecule as an attractive substitute for commercially available porcine pituitary-derived products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Villarraza
- UNL (Universidad Nacional del Litoral), CBL (Centro Biotecnológico del Litoral), LDB (Laboratorio de Desarrollo Biotecnológico), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Sebastián Antuña
- Biotecnofe S.A. Parque Tecnológico Litoral Centro (PTLC), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Belén Tardivo
- Biotecnofe S.A. Parque Tecnológico Litoral Centro (PTLC), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Celeste Rodríguez
- UNL (Universidad Nacional del Litoral), CBL (Centro Biotecnológico del Litoral), LDB (Laboratorio de Desarrollo Biotecnológico), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
- UNL (Universidad Nacional del Litoral), FBCB (Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas), Cátedra de Química Analítica II, Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Pablo Uriel Díaz
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
- Centro de Medicina Comparada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Ulises Sebastián Notaro
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
- Centro de Medicina Comparada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Hugo Héctor Ortega
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
- Centro de Medicina Comparada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Claudio Prieto
- UNL (Universidad Nacional del Litoral), CBL (Centro Biotecnológico del Litoral), LDB (Laboratorio de Desarrollo Biotecnológico), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Biotecnofe S.A. Parque Tecnológico Litoral Centro (PTLC), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Natalia Ceaglio
- CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Santa Fe, Argentina
- UNL (Universidad Nacional del Litoral), FBCB (Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas), CBL (Centro Biotecnológico del Litoral), LCC (Laboratorio de Cultivos Celulares), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina
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5
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Galetaki DM, Merchant N, Dauber A. Novel therapies for growth disorders. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:1121-1128. [PMID: 37831302 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05239-y] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
As we continue to understand more about the complex mechanism of growth, a plethora of novel therapies have recently been developed that aim to address barriers and optimize efficacy. This review aims to explore these novel therapies and provide a succinct review based on the latest clinical studies in order to introduce clinicians to therapies that will soon constitute the future in the field of short stature. Conclusion: The review focuses on long-acting growth hormone formulations, a novel growth hormone oral secretagogue, novel treatments for children with achondroplasia, and targeted therapies for rare forms of skeletal dysplasias. What is Known: • Recombinant human growth hormone has been the mainstay of treatment for children with short stature for years. • Such therapy is not always effective based on the underlying diagnosis (e.g achondroplasia, Turner syndrome). Compliance with daily injections is challenging and can directly affect efficacy. What is New: • Recent development of long-acting growth hormone regimens and oral secretagogues can overcome some of these barriers, however several limitations need to be taken into consideration. • Newer therapies for achondroplasia, and other rare forms of skeletal dysplasias introduce us to a new era of targeted therapies for children with short stature. Clinicians ought to be aware of pitfalls and caveats before introducing these novel therapies to every day practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina M Galetaki
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nadia Merchant
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Andrew Dauber
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
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Byambaragchaa M, Kim SG, Park SH, Shin MG, Kim SK, Kang MH, Min KS. Production of Recombinant Single-Chain Eel Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Analogs in Chinese Hamster Ovary Suspension Cell Culture. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:542-556. [PMID: 38248337 PMCID: PMC10814319 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
We produced rec-single chain eel luteinizing (rec-eel LH) and follicle-stimulating (rec- eel FSH) hormones displaying high biological activity in Chinese hamster ovary suspension (CHO-S) cells. We constructed several mutants, in which a linker, including an O-linked glycosylated carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) of an equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) β-subunit, was attached between the β- and α-subunit (LH-M and FSH-M) or in the N-terminal (C-LH and C-FSH) or C-terminal (LH-C and FSH-C) regions. The plasmids were transfected into CHO-S cells, and culture supernatants were collected. The secretion of mutants from the CHO-S cells was faster than that of eel LHβ/α-wt and FSHβ/α-wt proteins. The molecular weight of eel LHβ/α-wt and eel FSHβ/α-wt was 32-34 and 34-36 kDa, respectively, and that of LH-M and FSH-M was 40-43 and 42-45 kDa, respectively. Peptide-N-glycanase F-treatment markedly decreased the molecular weight by approximately 8-10 kDa. The EC50 value and the maximal responsiveness of the eel LH-M and eel FSH-M increased compared with the wild-type proteins. These results show that the CTP region plays a pivotal role in early secretion and signal transduction. We suggest that novel rec-eel LH and FSH proteins, exhibiting potent activity, could be produced in large quantities using a stable CHO cell system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munkhzaya Byambaragchaa
- Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sang-Gwon Kim
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (S.-G.K.); (S.H.P.)
| | - Sei Hyun Park
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (S.-G.K.); (S.H.P.)
| | - Min Gyu Shin
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea; (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | - Shin-Kwon Kim
- Aquaculture Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea; (M.G.S.); (S.-K.K.)
| | - Myung-Hwa Kang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kwan-Sik Min
- Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea;
- Graduate School of Animal Biosciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea; (S.-G.K.); (S.H.P.)
- Division of Animal BioScience, School of Animal Life Convergence Sciences, Hankyong National University, Anseong 17579, Republic of Korea
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7
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Velazquez EP, Miller BS, Yuen KCJ. Somatrogon injection for the treatment of pediatric growth hormone deficiency with comparison to other LAGH products. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2024; 19:1-10. [PMID: 38112103 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2290495] [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: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Somatrogon (NGENLA™) is a long-acting GH (LAGH) formulation that was approved in Canada in October 2021 for the treatment of pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Somatrogon has also received approval in Australia, Japan, the European Union, the USA, and the UK. Somatrogon is a glycoprotein that utilizes three copies of the C-terminal peptide of human chorionic gonadotropin to delay its clearance allowing for once-weekly administration. AREAS COVERED The purpose of this article is to describe the development of somatrogon for treatment of individuals with GHD. Trials of somatrogon demonstrated positive efficacy results in adults (Phase 2) and children (Phase 2 and 3) with GHD including non-inferiority of height velocity compared to daily GH, with no concerning side effects. Growth responses, pharmacodynamics and safety data are compared to other LAGH products, lonapegsomatropin and somapacitan, in Phase 3 trials in pediatric GHD. EXPERT OPINION New LAGH products, including somatrogon, have the potential to increase patient adherence as well as improve quality of life and clinical outcomes. Clinicians will need to identify the best candidates for LAGH therapy and understand how to safely monitor and adjust therapy. Long-term surveillance studies are necessary to demonstrate adherence, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and safety of LAGH preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric P Velazquez
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Memorial Health University Physicians, Savannah, GA, USA
| | - Bradley S Miller
- Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Minnesota Medical School and MHealth Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kevin C J Yuen
- Department of Neuroendocrinology and Neurology, Barrow Pituitary Center, University of Arizona College of Medicine and Creighton School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Tripathy RK, Anakha J, Pande AH. Towards development of biobetter: L-asparaginase a case study. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130499. [PMID: 37914146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130499] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND L-asparaginase (ASNase) has played a key role in the management of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). As an amidohydrolase, it catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine, a crucial step in the treatment of ALL. Various ASNase variants have evolved from diverse sources since it was first used in paediatric patients in the 1960s. This review describes the available ASNase and approaches being used to develop ASNase as a biobetter candidate. SCOPE OF REVIEW The review discusses the Glycosylation and PEGylation techniques, which are frequently used to develop biobetter versions of the majority of the therapeutic proteins. Further, it explores current ASNase biobetters in therapeutic use and discusses the protein engineering and chemical modification approaches that were employed to reduce immunogenicity, extend protein half-life, and enhance protease stability of ASNase. Emerging strategies like immobilization and encapsulation are also highlighted as potential pathways for improving ASNase properties. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The purpose of the development of ASNase biobetter is to achieve a novel therapeutic candidate that could improve catalytic efficiency, in vivo stability with minimum glutaminase (GLNase) activity and toxicity. Modification of ASNase by immobilization and encapsulation or by fusion technologies like Albumin fusion, Fc fusion, ELP fusion, XTEN fusion, etc. can be exploited to develop a novel biobetter candidate suitable for therapeutic approaches. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE This review emphasizes the importance of biobetter development for therapeutic proteins like ASNase. Improved ASNase molecules have the potential to significantly advance the treatment of ALL and have broader implications in the pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan K Tripathy
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali 160062, Punjab, India
| | - J Anakha
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali 160062, Punjab, India
| | - Abhay H Pande
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali 160062, Punjab, India.
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9
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Marsh MC, Owen SC. Therapeutic Fusion Proteins. AAPS J 2023; 26:3. [PMID: 38036919 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-023-00873-8] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic fusion proteins are a class of hybrid constructs that combine distinct biomolecules into a single platform with the additive effects of the components. The ability to fuse two unrelated proteins provides a means to localize mechanisms to better treat a range of diseases. Fusion proteins can be designed to impart diverse functions, including increasing half-life, providing targeting, and enabling sustained signaling. Of these, half-life extenders, which are fused to a therapeutic protein to increase exposure, are the most established group of fusion proteins, with many clinical successes. Rapid advances in antibody and antibody-derivative technology have enabled the fusion of targeting domains with therapeutic proteins. An emerging group of therapeutic fusion proteins has two separate active functions. Although most research for therapeutic fusion proteins focuses on cancer, prior successes provide a foundation for studies into other diseases as well. The exponential emergence of biopharmaceuticals gives precedence for increased research into therapeutic fusion proteins for a multitude of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan C Marsh
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics, University of Utah, 30 South 2000 East, Room 301, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
| | - Shawn C Owen
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics, University of Utah, 30 South 2000 East, Room 301, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA.
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA.
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10
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Grillo MS, Frank J, Saenger P. Long acting growth hormone (LAGH), an update. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1254231. [PMID: 37842029 PMCID: PMC10569466 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1254231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1957, Maurice Raben at Yale was able to isolate and purify growth hormone from cadaveric pituitary glands. Pituitary growth hormone was the only way to treat children with growth hormone (GH) deficiency, until 1985 when recombinant GH became available for daily subcutaneous injection. For many years, the pediatric endocrine community longed for a long-acting recombinant GH formulation that would decrease the inconvenience of daily injections. Several mechanisms were employed to develop a GH that is rapidly absorbed into the blood stream after subcutaneous injection, but provides slow removal from the circulatory system to potentially optimize patient adherence to GH therapy. Four long-acting growth hormones are currently available in the world, or are close to regulatory approval. They are: (1) Pegylated formulations, (2) Prodrug formulations which are converted into active drug, (3) Nonvalent transient albumin binding GH compounds and (4) GH fusion proteins where a protein si fused with GH. All four formulations have undergone detailed phase 3 studies and were found to show non-inferiority in these clinical studies. All four demonstrate a safety and tolerability profile that is comparable to that of daily somatropin with an excellent adherence profile.
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Donato R, Bessow C, Genro V, Chapon R, Oliveira de Souza T, Cunha-Filho JSLD. Corifollitropin alpha was not detrimental to follicular ovarian responsiveness measured by follicular output rate (FORT). HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:557-563. [PMID: 34412562 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1968044] [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: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Corifollitropin alpha has been demonstrated to be non-inferior to other gonadotropins in reproductive outcomes. However, its impact on follicular ovarian responsiveness has never been evaluated. Follicular Output Rate (FORT) is an option for objective assessment of the follicular responsiveness. A prospective study was conducted with 306 infertile patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation. Ovarian stimulation protocol was performed with a single dose of 100 μg (<60kg) or 150 μg (≥60kg) corifollitropin alpha in group 1 (n = 147), and 150-300 IU/day human menopausal gonadotropin in group 2 (n = 150). Comparing ovarian stimulation between corifollitropin alpha and human menopausal gonadotropin, no differences regarding FORT were found (40.0% for group 1 versus 40.83% for group 2; p = 0.930). Patients treated with corifollitropin alpha had a higher number of embryos when compared with human menopausal gonadotropin group (3.0 for group 1 versus 2.0 for group 2; p = 0.04). Other secondary outcomes preset were similar between groups. Therefore, corifollitropin alpha can be an excellent option to simplify in vitro fertilisation treatment due to the "patient-friendly" protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Donato
- Postgradute Program in Heath Sciences: Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Insemine, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Camila Bessow
- Postgradute Program in Heath Sciences: Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Insemine, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Genro
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Insemine, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rita Chapon
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Insemine, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - João Sabino Lahorgue da Cunha-Filho
- Postgradute Program in Heath Sciences: Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Insemine, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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12
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Nguyen TMD, Klett D, Combarnous Y. Undissociable chemically cross-linked and single-chain gonadotropins. Theriogenology 2023; 198:250-255. [PMID: 36621134 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Undissociable gonadotropins can be obtained either by chemical cross-linking of the natural heterodimeric hormones or by expressing recombinant single-chain molecules through the fusion of their α and β polypeptide sequences. These undissociable hormones are not more active than their natural heterodimeric counterparts indicating that the β-subunit seatbelt embracing the α-subunit ensures the αβ heterodimer stability in physiological conditions. The main interests of single-chain gonadotropins are that 1/only one single plasmid is required to produce an active recombinant hormone, 2/the two subunits' domains are constantly present in equal amounts and 3/they remain in close proximity even at low concentration for forming the hormone bioactive 3D structure. These undissociable gonadotropins have been shown to exhibit excellent stability and activity but they have not yet been commercialized probably because of immunogenicity risks and cost of production. Nevertheless, they might be used as a basis for the development of chemically simpler and cheaper ligands of LH and FSH receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Mong Diep Nguyen
- INRAe, CNRS Unit of Reproductive Physiology and Behaviour, 37380, Nouzilly, France; Faculty of Natural Sciences, Quy Nhon University, Quy Nhon, 820000, Viet Nam
| | - Danièle Klett
- INRAe, CNRS Unit of Reproductive Physiology and Behaviour, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Combarnous
- INRAe, CNRS Unit of Reproductive Physiology and Behaviour, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
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13
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Steiner M, Frank J, Saenger P. Long-acting growth hormone in 2022. Pediatr Investig 2023; 7:36-42. [PMID: 36967745 PMCID: PMC10030690 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
After the isolation of pituitary growth hormone (GH) in 1957, this form of GH, always in limited supply, was the only drug available for the treatment of GH deficiency. In 1985, recombinant GH became available, and the modalities of GH therapies changed dramatically as the supply was unlimited. New indications for GH in pediatrics and adult medicine were developed. Treatment was daily. Now in 2021 long-acting GH (LAGH) became available the world over making GH therapy more patient-friendly and even showing slightly greater efficacy than daily GH therapy. We are now entering a new era of LAGH therapy for pediatric and adult use with new formulations of GH, which will predictably be the preferred form of GH therapy for years to come increasing adherence to GH therapy and possibly even efficacy, that is, better growth rate. The continued availability of new safety data will further solidify the use of LAGH in clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Steiner
- NYU Langone Health‐Long Island101 Mineola BoulevardMineolaNew YorkUSA
| | - Jacklyn Frank
- NYU Langone Health‐Long Island101 Mineola BoulevardMineolaNew YorkUSA
| | - Paul Saenger
- NYU Langone Health‐Long Island101 Mineola BoulevardMineolaNew YorkUSA
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14
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Horikawa R, Tanaka T, Hasegawa Y, Yorifuji T, Ng D, Rosenfeld RG, Hoshino Y, Okayama A, Shima D, Gomez R, Pastrak A, Castellanos O. Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Somatrogon Compared with Once-Daily Somatropin (Genotropin®) in Japanese Children with Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency: Results from a Randomized Phase 3 Study. Horm Res Paediatr 2022; 95:275-285. [PMID: 35417909 PMCID: PMC9533447 DOI: 10.1159/000524600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Somatrogon is a long-acting recombinant human growth hormone being developed as a once-weekly treatment for children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The objective of this phase 3 study (NCT03874013) was to compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly somatrogon with once-daily Genotropin in Japanese children with GHD. METHODS In this open-label, randomized, active-controlled study, 44 prepubertal Japanese children with GHD (boys: 3 to <11 years; girls: 3 to <10 years) were randomized 1:1 to receive once-weekly somatrogon or once-daily Genotropin (0.025 mg/kg/day) for 12 months. Dose escalation for somatrogon-treated subjects occurred in the first 6 weeks (0.25, 0.48, and 0.66 mg/kg/week; 2 weeks each) with the remaining 46 weeks at a dose of 0.66 mg/kg/week. The study's primary endpoint was annualized height velocity (HV) at 12 months. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar between treatment groups. Compared with Genotropin-treated subjects, somatrogon-treated subjects had higher least-squares mean HV at 12 months (9.65 cm/year vs. 7.87 cm/year). Once-weekly somatrogon was concluded as being comparable to once-daily Genotropin as the mean treatment difference (somatrogon-Genotropin) in HV was +1.79 cm/year (95% confidence interval, 0.97-2.61), which was greater than the preestablished margin (-1.8 cm/year). For both treatment groups, most adverse events were mild to moderate in severity and a similar proportion of subjects reported injection-site pain, although the somatrogon group reported more painful injections. CONCLUSION In prepubertal Japanese children with GHD, once-weekly somatrogon was comparable to once-daily Genotropin in terms of annualized (12-month) HV. Both treatments had similar safety and tolerability profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Horikawa
- National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan,*Reiko Horikawa,
| | | | | | - Tohru Yorifuji
- Children's Medical Center, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - David Ng
- WuXi Clinical, Austin, Texas, USA
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15
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Deal CL, Steelman J, Vlachopapadopoulou E, Stawerska R, Silverman LA, Phillip M, Kim HS, Ko C, Malievskiy O, Cara JF, Roland CL, Taylor CT, Valluri SR, Wajnrajch MP, Pastrak A, Miller BS. Efficacy and Safety of Weekly Somatrogon vs Daily Somatropin in Children With Growth Hormone Deficiency: A Phase 3 Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e2717-e2728. [PMID: 35405011 PMCID: PMC9202717 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Somatrogon is a long-acting recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) in development for once-weekly treatment of children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly somatrogon with once-daily somatropin in prepubertal children with GHD. METHODS In this 12-month, open-label, randomized, active-controlled, parallel-group, phase 3 study, participants were randomized 1:1 to receive once-weekly somatrogon (0.66 mg/kg/week) or once-daily somatropin (0.24 mg/kg/week) for 12 months. A total of 228 prepubertal children (boys aged 3-11 years, girls aged 3-10 years) with GHD, impaired height and height velocity (HV), and no prior rhGH treatment were randomized and 224 received ≥1 dose of study treatment (somatrogon: 109; somatropin: 115). The primary endpoint was annualized HV at month 12. RESULTS HV at month 12 was 10.10 cm/year for somatrogon-treated subjects and 9.78 cm/year for somatropin-treated subjects, with a treatment difference (somatrogon-somatropin) of 0.33 (95% CI: -0.24, 0.89). The lower bound of the 2-sided 95% CI was higher than the prespecified noninferiority margin (-1.8 cm/year), demonstrating noninferiority of once-weekly somatrogon vs daily somatropin. HV at month 6 and change in height standard deviation score at months 6 and 12 were similar between both treatment groups. Both treatments were well tolerated, with a similar percentage of subjects experiencing mild to moderate treatment-emergent adverse events in both groups (somatrogon: 78.9%, somatropin: 79.1%). CONCLUSION The efficacy of once-weekly somatrogon was noninferior to once-daily somatropin, with similar safety and tolerability profiles. (ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT02968004).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheri L Deal
- Centre de recherche CHU Ste-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | | | | | - Renata Stawerska
- Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital-Research Institute, Lodz, and Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Moshe Phillip
- Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Petah Tikva, and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ho-Seong Kim
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - CheolWoo Ko
- Kyungpook National University Children’s Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael P Wajnrajch
- Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
- New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Bradley S Miller
- University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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16
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Sudo R, Kawakami Y, Nomura K, Tanaka H, Kazeto Y. Production of recombinant Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) growth hormones and their effects on early-stage larvae. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 317:113977. [PMID: 35065055 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2022.113977] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone (Gh) regulates somatic growth in fishes, particularly through the Gh - insulin-like growth factor-I (Igf-I) axis. In this study, recombinant Japanese eel Ghs with or without C-terminal peptides of human chorionic gonadotropin (CTP), which are known to prolong the half-life, were produced using the HEK 293 and CHO expression system. The effect of recombinant Gh administration to eel larvae on their somatic growth was investigated in short-term feeding experiments, and it was found that three types of recombinant Ghs with CTP (CTP-reGh, reGh-CTP and reGh-CTP × 2) were more effective in promoting somatic growth in eel larvae than recombinant Ghs without CTP. Among the three recombinant Ghs with CTP, reGh-CTP × 2 had the highest growth-promoting effects, however only when provided in the short term. After long-term administration of reGh-CTP × 2, there was no difference in growth between the Gh administrated group and the control group. The survival rate of eel larvae were not affected by recombinant Ghs. In addition, the mRNA expression of gh, Gh receptors, Igf-I and IGF-II were measured by quantitative real-time PCR, and significant reductions in the expression of gh, Gh receptors and Igf-I were observed. These findings provide useful tools to study the mechanisms of somatic growth and increase understanding of Gh regulation in anguillid eel larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusuke Sudo
- Fisheries Technology Institute, Minamiizu Field Station, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Minamiizu, Kamo, Shizuoka 415-0156, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kawakami
- Shin Nippon Biomedical Laboratories Ltd, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima 891-1394, Japan; Fisheries Technology Institute, Nansei Field Station, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Minamiise, Mie 516-0193, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Nomura
- Fisheries Technology Institute, Nansei Field Station, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Minamiise, Mie 516-0193, Japan
| | - Hideki Tanaka
- Fisheries Technology Institute, Nansei Field Station, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Minamiise, Mie 516-0193, Japan; Aquaculture Research Institute, Kindai University, Uragami, Wakayama 649-5145, Japan
| | - Yukinori Kazeto
- Fisheries Technology Institute, Minamiizu Field Station, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Minamiizu, Kamo, Shizuoka 415-0156, Japan.
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17
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Lee SY, Byambaragchaa M, Choi SH, Kang HJ, Kang MH, Min KS. Roles of N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites in the activity of equine chorionic gonadotropin in cells expressing rat luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor. BMC Biotechnol 2021; 21:52. [PMID: 34482828 PMCID: PMC8419929 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-021-00712-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), which comprises highly glycosylated α-subunit and β-subunit, is a unique member of the glycoprotein hormone family as it elicits both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-like and luteinizing hormone (LH)-like responses in non-equid species. To examine the biological function of glycosylated sites in eCG, the following glycosylation site mutants were constructed: eCGβ/αΔ56, substitution of Asn56 of α-subunit with Gln; eCGβ-D/α, deletion of the O-linked glycosylation site at the carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) region of the β-subunit; eCGβ-D/αΔ56, double mutant. The recombinant eCG (rec-eCG) mutants were expressed in Chinese hamster ovary suspension (CHO-S) cells. The FSH-like and LH-like activities of the mutants were examined using CHO-K1 cells expressing rat lutropin/CG receptor (rLH/CGR) and rat FSH receptor (rFSHR). Results Both rec-eCGβ/α and rec-eCGβ/αΔ56 were efficiently secreted into the CHO-S cell culture medium on day 1 post-transfection. However, the secretion of eCGβ-D/α and eCGβ-D/αΔ56, which lack approximately 12 O-linked glycosylation sites, was slightly delayed. The expression levels of all mutants were similar (200–250 mIU/mL) from days 3 to 7 post-transfection. The molecular weight of rec-eCGβ/α, rec-eCGβ/αΔ56 and rec-eCG β-D/α were in the ranges of 40–45, 37–42, and 34–36 kDa, respectively. Treatment with peptide-N-glycanase F markedly decreased the molecular weight to approximately 5–10 kDa. Rec-eCGβ/αΔ56 exhibited markedly downregulated LH-like activity. The signal transduction activity of both double mutants was completely impaired. This indicated that the glycosylation site at Asn56 of the α-subunit plays a pivotal role in the LH-like activity of eCG. Similarly, the FSH-like activity of the mutants was markedly downregulated. eCGβ-D/α exhibited markedly downregulated LH-like and FSH-like activities. Conclusions Rec-eCGβ/α exhibits potent biological activity in cells expressing rLH/CGR and rFSHR. The findings of this study suggest that the LH-like and FSH-like activities of eCG are regulated by the N-linked glycosylation site at Asn56 of the eCG α-subunit and/or by the O-linked glycosylation sites of the eCG β-subunit. These findings improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying both LH-like and FSH-like activities of eCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Yun Lee
- Animal Biotechnology, Graduate School of Future Convergence Technology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea
| | - Munkhzaya Byambaragchaa
- Animal Biotechnology, Graduate School of Future Convergence Technology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea
| | - Seung-Hee Choi
- Animal Biotechnology, Graduate School of Future Convergence Technology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea
| | - Han-Ju Kang
- Animal Biotechnology, Graduate School of Future Convergence Technology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea
| | - Myung-Hwa Kang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hoseo University, Asan, 31499, Korea
| | - Kwan-Sik Min
- Animal Biotechnology, Graduate School of Future Convergence Technology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea. .,School of Animal Life Biotechnology, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Hankyong National University, Ansung, 17579, Korea.
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18
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Kazeto Y, Suzuki H, Ozaki Y, Gen K. C-terminal peptide (hCTP) of human chorionic gonadotropin enhances in vivo biological activity of recombinant Japanese eel follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone produced in FreeStyle 293-F cell lines. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 306:113731. [PMID: 33539901 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins (Gths), follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh), and luteinizing hormone (Lh) play central roles in the reproductive biology of vertebrates. In this study, recombinant single-chain Japanese eel Gths (rGth: rFsh and rLh), and recombinant chimeric Gths (rGth-hCTPs: rFsh-hCTP and rLh-hCTP; rGth-eCTPs: rFsh-eCTP and rLh-eCTP) with an extra O-glycosylation site (either a C-terminal peptide of human (hCTP) or equine (eCTP) chorionic gonadotropin), which are known to prolong the half-life of glycoprotein were produced in HEK293 cells and highly purified. Lectin blot analyses demonstrated that all these recombinant Gths contained N-glycans of the high mannose and complex types. In contrast, only rGth-hCTPs and rGth-eCTPs possessed highly sialylated O-linked oligosaccharides. Further analyses of glycans by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry suggested that the species, amount, and degree of sialylation of N-glycans were comparable among recombinant Fshs and recombinant Lhs, while the amount of O-glycans with sialic acids in rGth-hCTPs was higher than that in the corresponding rGth-eCTPs. The serum levels of recombinant Gths in male eels significantly increased 12-24 h after a single injection of the Gths. The levels of rGth-hCTPs tended to be higher than those of the corresponding rGths and rGth-eCTPs throughout the experimental period, coinciding with the serum fluctuations of 11-ketotestosterone (11KT). The long-term treatment of male eels with these recombinant Gths also revealed the superiority of rGth-hCTPs in assisted reproduction; thus, the serum levels of 11KT and gonadosomatic indices in eels treated with rGth-hCTPs were higher than those in eels treated with the corresponding rGths and rGth-eCTPs. The induction of the entire process of spermatogenesis was only histologically observed in rGth-hCTPs-treated eels. These findings strongly suggest that hCTP enhances the in vivo biological activity of recombinant Japanese eel Gths due to the high abundance of O-linked glycans with sialylated antennae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukinori Kazeto
- Tamaki Field Station, Physiological Function Division, Aquaculture Research Department, Fisheries Technology Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 224-1 Hiruda, Tamaki, Watarai, Mie 519-0423, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Suzuki
- Tamaki Field Station, Physiological Function Division, Aquaculture Research Department, Fisheries Technology Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 224-1 Hiruda, Tamaki, Watarai, Mie 519-0423, Japan; Graduate School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Yuichi Ozaki
- Tamaki Field Station, Physiological Function Division, Aquaculture Research Department, Fisheries Technology Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 224-1 Hiruda, Tamaki, Watarai, Mie 519-0423, Japan.
| | - Koichiro Gen
- Tuna Aquaculture Division, Aquaculture Research Department, Fisheries Technology Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 1551-8 Taira-machi, Nagasaki 851-2213, Japan.
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Nataraja S, Yu H, Guner J, Palmer S. Discovery and Preclinical Development of Orally Active Small Molecules that Exhibit Highly Selective Follicle Stimulating Hormone Receptor Agonism. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:602593. [PMID: 33519465 PMCID: PMC7845544 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.602593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An orally active follicle stimulating hormone receptor allosteric agonist would provide a preferred treatment for over 16 million infertile women of reproductive age in low complexity methods (ovulation induction-intrauterine insemination) or in high complexity methods (controlled ovarian stimulation-in vitro fertilization). We present two oral follicle stimulating hormone receptor allosteric agonist compounds that have the desired pharmacology, drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and safety profile for clinical use. These molecules provide a single agent suitable for ovulation induction-intrauterine insemination or controlled ovarian stimulation-in vitro fertilization that is more convenient for patients and achieves similar preclinical efficacy as rec-hFSH. TOP5668, TOP5300 were evaluated in vitro in Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with individual glycoprotein receptors measuring cAMP (FSHR, LH/CGR, thyroid stimulating hormone receptor). TOP5668 was found to have solely follicle stimulating hormone receptor allosteric agonist activity while TOP5300 was found to have mixed follicle stimulating hormone receptor allosteric agonist and LHR-AA activity. Both compounds stimulated concentration-dependent increases in estradiol production from cultured rat granulosa cells in the presence or absence of low dose rec-hFSH, while only TOP5300 stimulated testosterone production from rat primary Leydig cells. In pooled human granulosa cells obtained from patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation-in vitro fertilization, TOP5300 stimulated 7-fold greater maximal estradiol response than rec-hFSH and TOP5668 was 10-fold more potent than TOP5300. Both TOP5300 and TOP5668 stimulated follicular development in immature rat to the same efficacy as recombinant follicle stimulating hormone. In mice treated with TOP5300, in the presence of low dose of follicle stimulating hormone, there were no differences in oocyte number, fertilization rate, and hatched blastocyst rate in mice with TOP5300 and low dose follicle stimulating hormone vs. reference proteins pregnant mare serum gonadotropin or high dose rec-hFSH. ADME/PK and safety profiles were favorable. In addition, there was no appreciable activity on thyroid hormones by TOP5300 in 14-days toxicological study in rat or dog. The selected lead compound, TOP5300 stimulated a more robust increase in estradiol production from granulosa-lutein cells from women with polycystic ovarian syndrome patient compared to rec-hFSH. Conclusions: Two novel oral FSHR allosteric agonist, TOP5668 and TOP5300, were found to mimic the biological activity of rec hFSH in preclinical studies. Both compounds led to folliculogenesis and superovulation in rat and mice. Specifically, TOP5300 led to a similar number of ovulated oocytes that fertilized and developed into hatched blastocysts in mice when compared to rec-hFSH. The safety profile demonstrated lack of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joie Guner
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stephen Palmer
- TocopheRx, Inc., Groton, MA, United States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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20
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Dias JA, Ulloa-Aguirre A. New Human Follitropin Preparations: How Glycan Structural Differences May Affect Biochemical and Biological Function and Clinical Effect. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:636038. [PMID: 33815292 PMCID: PMC8018285 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.636038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well accepted that pituitary follitropin is secreted into the circulation as a mixture of variants, which differ not in primary structure but rather at the level of glycosylation. These glycosidic forms vary in the number of glycosylation sites filled, complexity of glycosidic chains, and sialylation and sulfation. It is generally agreed that high sialylation, 2,3 sialic acid capping of terminal N-acetyl galactosamine or galactose leads to longer circulating half-life, by blocking binding of asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) in the liver. In contrast, 2,6 sialic acid found in humans does not prevent recognition of galactose and N-acetyl galactosamine by ASGPR. Few studies on clinical outcomes comparing differences in sialylation of follitropin found in commercially available preparations are available. Thus, there is a clear need for a consortium of open data to address this unmet need. Recently, FSH glycosylation, primarily on the β-subunit, which varies as women age, has emerged as a key modifier of follitropin action, with profound biological effects in vivo in animal models. To date, limited information of recombinant follitropin hormone preparations is available. Thus, most of the studies with FSH that is well characterized biochemically have been done in vitro, with engineered non gonadal host cells bearing recombinant receptors or in animal models. Since limited studies in human granulosa cells are available, a question is whether structural differences in glycosylation in commercially available follitropin affects biological function and clinical effect in humans. The presence of fucose, for example, has not been studied greatly even though, in the case of antibody therapy it has been shown to have a large effect on antibody targeting. This review on glycosidic variability of follitropin from the biochemical/structural point of view reflects on this question and presents an assessment in the context of available published data. If clinical differences are to be expected or not, the readers will have a better understanding of the evidence for and limitations of such expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Dias
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: James A. Dias,
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, National University of Mexico-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ., Mexico City, Mexico
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Sales MDLM, Kratje R, Oggero M, Ceaglio N. Bifunctional GM-CSF-derived peptides as tools for O-glycoengineering and protein tagging. J Biotechnol 2020; 327:18-27. [PMID: 33387593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2020.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Rapid development of effective biotherapeutics has been a concern during the last couple decades. In our work we designed two novel peptide tags, GMOP and mGMOP, derived from the N-terminal region of human granulocyte and macrophage colony stimulating factor (hGM-CSF), which contain four and six potential O-glycosylation sites, respectively. These peptide tags were fused to the N-terminus of human interferon-α2b (hIFN-α2b), a therapeutic antiviral and antiproliferative protein rapidly cleared from circulation. Two new molecules were obtained which, consistently with the presence of O-glycans, showed higher molecular masses, more negatively charged isoforms, and higher sialic acid content compared to wild-type IFN. In vitro bioactivity of purified chimeras revealed a similar antiviral specific biological activity (SBA) compared to unmodified IFN. A reduction of antiproliferative SBA was only observed for mGMOP-IFN. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats showed a notable improvement in terminal half-life (t1/2elim) (3.3 and 2.8 times-longer) and a marked reduction of the apparent clearance (CLapp, 3.7 and 4.1-fold lower for GMOP-IFN and mGMOP-IFN in comparison with native IFN, respectively). Furthermore, the in vitro thermal and plasma stability of both proteins was improved. Finally, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that recognizes an N-terminal GM-CSF epitope was able to bind both chimeras in western blots and ELISAs. This demonstrates the potential of both peptides to behave as bifunctional tags to create novel long-acting biotherapeutics and to facilitate detection and purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- María de Los Milagros Sales
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB (School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences), CBL (Biotechnological Center of Litoral), Ciudad Universitaria, Ruta Nacional 168, Km 472.4, C.C. 242, S3000ZAA, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Kratje
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB (School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences), CBL (Biotechnological Center of Litoral), Ciudad Universitaria, Ruta Nacional 168, Km 472.4, C.C. 242, S3000ZAA, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marcos Oggero
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB (School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences), CBL (Biotechnological Center of Litoral), Ciudad Universitaria, Ruta Nacional 168, Km 472.4, C.C. 242, S3000ZAA, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Natalia Ceaglio
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB (School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences), CBL (Biotechnological Center of Litoral), Ciudad Universitaria, Ruta Nacional 168, Km 472.4, C.C. 242, S3000ZAA, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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The Conundrum of Poor Ovarian Response: From Diagnosis to Treatment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10090687. [PMID: 32932955 PMCID: PMC7555981 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10090687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent striking advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART), poor ovarian response (POR) diagnosis and treatment is still considered challenging. Poor responders constitute a heterogeneous cohort with the common denominator of under-responding to controlled ovarian stimulation. Inevitably, respective success rates are significantly compromised. As POR pathophysiology entails the elusive factor of compromised ovarian function, both diagnosis and management fuel an ongoing heated debate depicted in the literature. From the criteria employed for diagnosis to the plethora of strategies and adjuvant therapies proposed, the conundrum of POR still puzzles the practitioner. What is more, novel treatment approaches from stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma intra-ovarian infusion to mitochondrial replacement therapy have emerged, albeit not claiming clinical routine status yet. The complex and time sensitive nature of this subgroup of infertile patients indicates the demand for a consensus on a horizontally accepted definition, diagnosis and subsequent effective treating strategy. This critical review analyzes the standing criteria employed in order to diagnose and aptly categorize POR patients, while it proceeds to critically evaluate current and novel strategies regarding their management. Discrepancies in diagnosis and respective implications are discussed, while the existing diversity in management options highlights the need for individualized management.
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Smitz J, Platteau P. Influence of human chorionic gonadotrophin during ovarian stimulation: an overview. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:80. [PMID: 32762698 PMCID: PMC7409634 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00639-3] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely known that luteinising hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) are integral in the female reproductive lifecycle. Due to the common binding site and similarity in molecular structure, they were previously thought to have overlapping roles. However, with the development of both purified urinary-derived and recombinant gonadotrophins, the individual characteristics of these molecules have begun to be defined. There is evidence to suggest that LH and hCG preferentially activate different signalling cascades and display different receptor-binding kinetics. The data generated on the two molecules have led to an improved understanding of their distinct physiological functions, resulting in a debate among clinicians regarding the most beneficial use of LH- and hCG-containing products for ovarian stimulation (OS) in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Over the past few decades, a number of trials have generated data supporting the use of hCG for OS in ART. Indeed, the data indicated that hCG plays an important role in folliculogenesis, leads to improved endometrial receptivity and is associated with a higher quality of embryos, while presenting a favourable safety profile. These observations support the increased use of hCG as a method to provide LH bioactivity during OS. This review summarises the molecular and functional differences between hCG and LH, and provides an overview of the clinical trial data surrounding the use of products for OS that contain LH bioactivity, examining their individual effect on outcomes such as endometrial receptivity, oocyte yield and embryo quality, as well as key pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Platteau
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Hsueh AJW, Feng Y. Discovery of polypeptide ligand-receptor pairs based on their co-evolution. FASEB J 2020; 34:8824-8832. [PMID: 32501617 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000779r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Sequencing diverse genomes allowed the tracing of orthologous and paralogous genes to understand the co-evolution of polypeptide ligands and receptors. This review documents the discovery of several polypeptide ligands and their cognate receptors mainly expressed in the reproductive tissue using evolutionary genomics. We discussed the sub-functionization of paralogs and co-evolution of ligand-receptor families. Based on the conserved signaling among paralogous receptors and common knock-out phenotypes of ligand-receptor pairs, relationships between relaxin family peptides and leucine-rich repeat-containing, G protein-coupled receptors (LGR) were revealed. We also described the identification of a novel paralogous glycoprotein hormone thyrostimulin and design of a long-acting FSH. Human stresscopin and stresscopin-related peptide, paralogous to CRH, were also identified based on the conserved signaling pathways. Recently, a novel ligand placensin expressed in human placenta was found based on the paralogous relationship with a metabolic hormone asprosin. Placensin likely contributes to stage-dependent increases in insulin resistance during human pregnancy and its elevated secretion was associated with gestational diabetes mellitus. Although many ligands were predicted based on sequence signatures, ligands of shorter sequences have not been identified, together with many "orphan" receptors without known ligands. Future development of tools for predicting ligands and high throughput assays to identify ligand-receptor pairs based on ligand binding and/or signal transduction could advance hormone-based physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J W Hsueh
- Division of Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yi Feng
- Division of Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Institute of Brain Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Racca A, Drakopoulos P, Neves AR, Polyzos NP. Current Therapeutic Options for Controlled Ovarian Stimulation in Assisted Reproductive Technology. Drugs 2020; 80:973-994. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-020-01324-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Casarini L, Crépieux P, Reiter E, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Rochira V, Brigante G, Santi D, Simoni M. FSH for the Treatment of Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072270. [PMID: 32218314 PMCID: PMC7177393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) supports spermatogenesis acting via its receptor (FSHR), which activates trophic effects in gonadal Sertoli cells. These pathways are targeted by hormonal drugs used for clinical treatment of infertile men, mainly belonging to sub-groups defined as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or idiopathic infertility. While, in the first case, fertility may be efficiently restored by specific treatments, such as pulsatile gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) or choriogonadotropin (hCG) alone or in combination with FSH, less is known about the efficacy of FSH in supporting the treatment of male idiopathic infertility. This review focuses on the role of FSH in the clinical approach to male reproduction, addressing the state-of-the-art from the little data available and discussing the pharmacological evidence. New compounds, such as allosteric ligands, dually active, chimeric gonadotropins and immunoglobulins, may represent interesting avenues for future personalized, pharmacological approaches to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0593961705; Fax: +39-0593962018
| | - Pascale Crépieux
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Eric Reiter
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
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A prospective randomized trial comparing corifollitropin-α late-start (day 4) versus standard administration (day 2) in expected poor, normal, and high responders undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation for IVF. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1163-1170. [PMID: 32185595 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01742-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether corifollitropin-α (CFα) late-start administration (day 4) and standard administration (day 2) can obtain similar oocyte yield and live birth rate. STUDY DESIGN A randomized controlled trial. SETTING University Hospital IVF Unit. PATIENTS One hundred thirteen women undergoing IVF. INTERVENTIONS Patients distributed in three subgroups (expected poor, normal, or high responders to FSH) were randomized into two treatment arms: (a) CFα late-start: CFα on day 4 + GnRH antagonist from day 8 + (when needed) recFSH from day 11; (b) CFα standard start: CFα on day 2 + GnRH antagonist from day 6 + (when needed) recFSH from day 9. IVF or ICSI was performed as indicated. RESULTS Considering the whole study group, the late-start regimen obtained comparable oocyte yield (8.9 ± 5.6 vs. 8.8 ± 6.2; p = n.s.), cPR/started cycle (25% vs. 31.6%, p = n.s.), and cumulative live birth rate (LBR)/ovum pickup (OPU) (29.2% vs. 37.7%, p = n.s.) than the standard regimen. The outcome of the two regimens was comparable in the two subgroups of high and normal responders. Differently, in poor responders, oocyte yield was similar, but LBR/OPU was significantly lower with late-start CFα administration that caused 40% cancellation rate due to monofollicular response. ROC curves showed that the threshold AMH levels associated with cycle cancellation were 0.6 ng/ml for late-start regimen and 0.2 ng/ml for standard regimen. CONCLUSION CFα may be administered on either day 2 or day 4 to patients with expected high or normal response to FSH without compromising oocyte yield and/or live birth rate. Differently, late-start administration is not advisable for expected poor responders with AMH ≤ 0.6 ng/ml. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03816670.
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Zhang Q, Wang C, Ma F, Yao L, Gao H, Zhu L, Zheng L. Development and biological activity of long-acting recombinant human interferon-α2b. BMC Biotechnol 2020; 20:16. [PMID: 32169063 PMCID: PMC7071744 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-020-00605-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The type I human interferon (IFN) family consists of a group of cytokines with a multiplicity of biological activities, including antiviral, antitumor, and immunomodulatory effects. However, because the half-life of IFN is short, its clinical application is limited. Increasing the yield and biological activity of IFN while extending its half-life is currently the focus of IFN research. RESULTS Two novel long-acting recombinant human IFN-α2b (rhIFN-α2b) proteins were designed in which the carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) of the human chorionic gonadotropin β su bunit and N-linked glycosylation sequences were linked to rhIFN-α2b. They were designated IFN-1CTPON (fused at the C-terminus of rhIFN-α2b) and IFN-2CTPON (fused at both the C-terminus and N-terminus of rhIFN-α2b). Monoclonal CHO cell strains stably and efficiently expressing the IFNs were successfully selected with methotrexate (MTX), and the highest expression levels were 1468 mg/l and 1196 mg/l for IFN-1CTPON and IFN-2CTPON, respectively. The proteins were purified with affinity chromatography and molecular sieve chromatography. IFN-1CTPON and IFN-2CTPON showed antiviral and antiproliferative activities in vitro. Notably, the half-life of IFN-1CTPON and IFN-2CTPON in vivo were three-fold and two-fold longer than that of commercially available rhIFN-α2b. CONCLUSIONS CHO cell strains stably expressing long-acting rhIFN-α2b were screened. The purified IFN-CTPON protein has biological activity and an extended half-life, and therefore potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China
| | - Chao Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China
| | - Fenlian Ma
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China
| | - Lihong Yao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China
| | - Hanchun Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China
| | - Luyan Zhu
- Beijing Furen Ruihui Biomedical Research Institute Co.,Ltd, Beijing, 100176, China.
| | - Lishu Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Virology and Viral Diseases, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, 100052, China.
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McCoy DE, Haig D. Embryo Selection and Mate Choice: Can 'Honest Signals' Be Trusted? Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 35:308-318. [PMID: 32000998 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
When a measure becomes a target, it often ceases to be a good measure - an effect familiar from the declining usefulness of standardized testing in schools. This economic principle also applies to mate choice and, perhaps surprisingly, pregnancy. Just as females screen potential mates under many metrics, human mothers unconsciously screen embryos for quality. 'Examinees' are under intense selection to improve test performance by exaggerating formerly 'honest' signals of quality. Examiners must change their screening criteria to maintain useful information (but cannot abandon old criteria unilaterally). By the resulting 'proxy treadmill', new honest indicators arise while old degraded indicators linger, resulting in trait elaboration and exaggeration. Hormone signals during pregnancy show extreme evolutionary escalation (akin to elaborate mating displays).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dakota E McCoy
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
| | - David Haig
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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Rocco DA, Paluzzi JPV. Expression Profiling, Downstream Signaling, and Inter-subunit Interactions of GPA2/GPB5 in the Adult Mosquito Aedes aegypti. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:158. [PMID: 32296389 PMCID: PMC7137729 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
GPA2/GPB5 and its receptor constitute a glycoprotein hormone-signaling system native to the genomes of most vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. Unlike the well-studied gonadotropins and thyrotropin, the exact function of GPA2/GPB5 remains elusive, and whether it elicits its functions as heterodimers, homodimers or as independent monomers remains unclear. Here, the glycoprotein hormone signaling system was investigated in adult mosquitoes, where GPA2 and GPB5 subunit expression was mapped and modes of its signaling were characterized. In adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, GPA2 and GPB5 transcripts co-localized to bilateral pairs of neuroendocrine cells, positioned within the first five abdominal ganglia of the central nervous system. Unlike GPA2/GPB5 homologs in human and fly, GPA2/GPB5 subunits in A. aegypti lacked evidence of heterodimerization. Rather, cross-linking analysis to determine subunit interactions revealed A. aegypti GPA2 and GPB5 subunits may form homodimers, although treatments with independent subunits did not demonstrate receptor activity. Since mosquito GPA2/GPB5 heterodimers were not evident by heterologous expression, a tethered fusion construct was generated for expression of the subunits as a single polypeptide chain to mimic heterodimer formation. Our findings revealed A. aegypti LGR1 elicited constitutive activity with elevated levels of cAMP. However, upon treatment with recombinant tethered GPA2/GPB5, an inhibitory G protein (Gi/o) signaling cascade is initiated and forskolin-induced cAMP production is inhibited. These results further support the notion that heterodimerization is a requirement for glycoprotein hormone receptor activation and provide novel insight to how signaling is achieved for GPA2/GPB5, an evolutionary ancient neurohormone.
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Yu TN, Liu YL, Wang PH, Chen CH, Chen CH, Tzeng CR. A novel strategy of using corifollitropin alfa in the ultrashort gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) protocol in unselected patients: A patient-friendly alternative. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 58:656-661. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2019.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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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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Lunenfeld B, Bilger W, Longobardi S, Alam V, D'Hooghe T, Sunkara SK. The Development of Gonadotropins for Clinical Use in the Treatment of Infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:429. [PMID: 31333582 PMCID: PMC6616070 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The first commercially available gonadotropin product was a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) extract, followed by animal pituitary gonadotropin extracts. These extracts were effective, leading to the introduction of the two-step protocol, which involved ovarian stimulation using animal gonadotropins followed by ovulation triggering using hCG. However, ovarian response to animal gonadotropins was maintained for only a short period of time due to immune recognition. This prompted the development of human pituitary gonadotropins; however, supply problems, the risk for Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, and the advent of recombinant technology eventually led to the withdrawal of human pituitary gonadotropin from the market. Urinary human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) preparations were also produced, with subsequent improvements in purification techniques enabling development of products with standardized proportions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) activity. In 1962 the first reported pregnancy following ovulation stimulation with hMG and ovulation induction with hCG was described, and this product was later established as part of the standard protocol for ART. Improvements in immunopurification techniques enabled the removal of LH from hMG preparations; however, unidentified urinary protein contaminants remained a problem. Subsequently, monoclonal FSH antibodies were used to produce a highly purified FSH preparation containing <0.1 IU of LH activity and <5% unidentified urinary proteins, enabling the formulation of smaller injection volumes that could be administered subcutaneously rather than intramuscularly. Ongoing issues with gonadotropins derived from urine donations, including batch-to-batch variability and a finite donor supply, were overcome by the development of recombinant gonadotropin products. The first recombinant human FSH molecules received marketing approvals in 1995 (follitropin alfa) and 1996 (follitropin beta). These had superior purity and a more homogenous glycosylation pattern compared with urinary or pituitary FSH. Subsequently recombinant versions of LH and hCG have been developed, and biosimilar versions of follitropin alfa have received marketing authorization. More recent developments include a recombinant FSH produced using a human cell line, and a long-acting FSH preparation. These state of the art products are administered subcutaneously via pen injection devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Wilma Bilger
- Medical Affairs Fertility, Endocrinology and General Medicine, Merck Serono GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Veronica Alam
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono, Rockland, MA, United States
- A Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sesh K. Sunkara
- Assisted Conception Unit, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Sacchi S, Tenedini E, Tondelli D, Parenti S, Tagliasacchi D, Xella S, Marsella T, Tagliafico E, La Marca A. Gene expression profiles of human granulosa cells treated with bioequivalent doses of corifollitropin alfa (CFA) or recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (recFSH). Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:623-627. [PMID: 30784329 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1576611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Using recombinant DNA technologies, a chimeric gene containing the coding sequences of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) β-subunit and C-terminal peptide of the human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) β-subunit have been designed to generate a new gonadotrophin named corifollitropin alfa (CFA). CFA has longer elimination half-life and slower rate of absorption compared with FSH, which makes CFA a long-acting hormone employed as a substitute of the recombinant FSH (recFSH) in the controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). The purpose of this study is to compare the gene expression profiles elicited by bioequivalent doses of CFA or recFSH in primary cultures of human granulosa cells (hGCs). Gonadotrophins exert their functions by binding FSH receptors (FSHRs), activating signaling pathways that increase the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) intracellular content. Bioequivalence has been defined as the dose/duration of gonadotrophin treatment able to promote the same amount of intracellular cAMP. hGCs were treated with different doses of either gonadotrophin and the cAMP was measured after different incubation times to establish the bioequivalence. Results obtained by comparing the bioequivalent treatments, showed that CFA is more effective than recFSH in inducing aromatase gene expression after 6 and 24 h from the initial stimulation in agreement with its long-acting characteristic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Sacchi
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Elena Tenedini
- b Center for Genome Research , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
- c Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Debora Tondelli
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Sandra Parenti
- b Center for Genome Research , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
- c Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Daniela Tagliasacchi
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Susanna Xella
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Tiziana Marsella
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Enrico Tagliafico
- b Center for Genome Research , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
- c Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
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Iyengar ARS, Gupta S, Jawalekar S, Pande AH. Protein Chimerization: A New Frontier for Engineering Protein Therapeutics with Improved Pharmacokinetics. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 370:703-714. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.257063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Errázuriz J, Romito A, Drakopoulos P, Frederix B, Racca A, De Munck N, Tournaye H, De Vos M, Blockeel C. Cumulative Live Birth Rates Following Stimulation With Corifollitropin Alfa Compared With hp-hMG in a GnRH Antagonist Protocol in Poor Ovarian Responders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:175. [PMID: 30967840 PMCID: PMC6439614 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Bologna criteria poor ovarian responders have a very low prognosis. Although, it has been proposed that LH supplementation could be beneficial in women with previous hypo-response to FSH. There are no studies comparing the cumulative live birth rates (LBRs) between corifollitropin alfa (CFA) and highly purified human menopausal gonadotrophin (hp-hMG). Objective: To compare cumulative LBRs in Bologna poor ovarian responders undergoing ovarian stimulation with CFA followed by hp-hMG vs. hp-hMG alone in a GnRH antagonist protocol. Design: This is a retrospective cohort study. We included in total 917 poor responders fulfilling the Bologna criteria for poor ovarian response (POR) at a university-affiliated tertiary center from January 2011 until March 2017. Patients were administered either fixed daily doses of 300-450 IU of hp-hMG (group A) or a single dose of 150 μg of CFA followed by daily injections of ≥300 IU of hp-hMG from Day 8 of stimulation until the day of ovulation trigger (group B), in a fixed GnRH antagonist protocol. Results: LBRs after fresh embryo transfer (ET) were similar in group A 71/510 (14%) and B 42/407 (10%). Cumulative LBR per cycle was significantly higher in group A (16.9%) compared to group B (11.8%); (P = 0.03). However, logistic regression analysis showed no association between the type of gonadotropin administered and cumulative LBR. Only age was significantly associated with cumulative LBR (OR = 0.93, P = 0.007). Conclusion: Cumulative LBRs are similar in Bologna poor responders stimulated with CFA followed by hp-hMG compared to hp-hMG monotreatment in an antagonist protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Errázuriz
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Clínica Alemana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alessia Romito
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Ginecological-Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Billie Frederix
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Surgical and Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Analissa Racca
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino (IRCCS), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Neelke De Munck
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zagreb-School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michel De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zagreb-School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
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Yuan WM, Zhang R, Zhang Q, Ma FL, Wang C, Wang YZ, Zeng Y, Zheng LS. The generation and biological activity of a long-lasting recombinant human interferon-λ1. Protein Eng Des Sel 2019; 31:355-360. [PMID: 30496575 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzy029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The previously generated recombinant human (rh) interferon (IFN)-λ1 protein has a short half-life, and this feature makes it challenging to conduct studies on potential clinical applications for rhIFN-λ1. In an attempt to overcome this difficulty, we constructed a 'long-life' version of rhIFN-λ1. This modified rhIFN-λ1, named rhIFN-λ1-CTPON, has a human chorionic gonadotropin β subunit carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) and an N-glycosylation sequence linked to its C-terminus. We confirmed the sequence of rhIFN-λ1-CTPON by mass spectrometry and then measured its biological activities. The results show that rhIFN-λ1-CTPON had antiviral activity and anti-proliferation activity in vitro that were similar to those of rhIFN-λ1 and that it similarly promoted natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Notably, the in vivo half-life of rhIFN-λ1-CTPON was determined to be 3-fold higher than that of rhIFN-λ1. We also assessed the anti-hepatitis B virus activity of rhIFN-λ1-CTPON; it was able to inhibit the production of the antigens HBs-Ag and HBe-Ag and induce antiviral gene expression. In conclusion, rhIFN-λ1-CTPON has a longer half-life than rhIFN-λ1 and has similar biological activities, so rhIFN-λ1-CTPON is an appropriate substitute for rhIFN-λ1 in the further study of potential clinical applications for rhIFN- λ1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu-Mei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China.,Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Medical Teaching Experiment Center, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, China
| | - Fen-Lian Ma
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Zi Wang
- Medical Teaching Experiment Center, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Li-Shu Zheng
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Beijing, China
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Blumenfeld Z. Corifollitropin-α is useful for low and normal responders, but what about hyperresponders? Fertil Steril 2019; 111:675-676. [PMID: 30853088 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Blumenfeld
- Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Zahiri Sorouri Z, Pourmarzi D, Safar Khah N. Corifollitropin- α compared to daily r-FSH in for patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection: Clinical trial study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 17. [PMID: 31435581 PMCID: PMC6652158 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v17i1.3817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current treatment regimen for ovarian stimulation in Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) patients is daily injections of Gonadotropins. Recombinant DNA technologies have produced a new recombinant molecule that is a long-acting Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), named corifollitropin alfa. A single injection of long-acting FSH can replace seven daily FSH injections during the first week of controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) and can make assisted reproduction more patients-friendly. There is limited data with different results in this area. Objective To compare the effectiveness of long-acting FSH vs. daily r-FSH in terms of pregnancy and safety outcomes in women undergoing ICSI cycles. Materials and Methods In this clinical trial study, 109 women who were the candidates for ICSI at azzahra hospital were divided in two groups. The first group received 150 units of daily Gonal-f from second or third day of menstruation. The second group received a 150IU corifollitropin alfa on the second or third day of mensuration, and the treatment continued from day eighth of stimulation with Gonal-f based on the ultrasound finding. Both the groups received GnRH antagonist from fifth day of stimulation. Two groups were compared in terms of number of dominant follicles, number of oocytes, stimulation duration, total number of embryos, number of transferred embryos, and success rate of pregnancy. Results No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of stimulation duration, number of follicles, number of oocytes, total number of embryos, and number of transferred embryos. Moreover, pregnancy outcomes including chemical pregnancy rate (positive pregnancy test), clinical pregnancy rate (detection of fetal heart), the rate of ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome, multiple-pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, and miscarriage didn't have a significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion As corifollitropin alfa was as effective as r-FSH, it could be used as an alternative to ovulation stimulation method in patients undergoing ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziba Zahiri Sorouri
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Al-zahra Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Davoud Pourmarzi
- Epidemiology, Reproductive Health Research Center, Gilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Niloufar Safar Khah
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Al-zahra Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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40
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Fares F, Azzam N. Development of long-acting recombinant glycoprotein hormones by increasing the carbohydrate content. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1017-1022. [PMID: 30711574 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic recombinant glycoproteins are important for both the biotechnological industry and clinical purposes. Given the rapid clearance of these proteins from the circulation, they have to be injected frequently to obtain optimal therapy. Several strategies have been developed to overcome this limitation, aiming to increase the half-life of such proteins in the circulation. These strategies included chemical attachment of polyethylene glycol, nanocapsulation, fusion to immunoglobulins or to albumin as protein carriers, or enrichment of the carbohydrate content. Here, we describe a strategy for increasing the half-life of recombinant proteins using gene fusion to increase the carbohydrate content of the protein backbone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuad Fares
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
| | - Naiel Azzam
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
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Griesinger G, Teal V, McCrary Sisk C, Ruman J. Comparison of the follicular output rate after controlled ovarian stimulation with daily recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone versus corifollitropin alfa. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 232:101-105. [PMID: 30529793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the Follicular Output Rate (FORT) between corifollitropin alfa (CFA) and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFSH) during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). STUDY DESIGN This retrospective analysis compared FORT between women treated with CFA or rFSH from three clinical trials: ENGAGE (N = 1476; ages 18-36, >60 kg), ENSURE (N = 395; ages 18-36, ≤60 kg), and PURSUE (N = 1388; ages 35-42, ≥50 kg). Women underwent COS in a GnRH antagonist protocol followed by hCG trigger prior to IVF. Antral follicle count (AFC; <11 mm) and pre-ovulatory follicle count (>15 mm) were used for FORT, defined as [pre-ovulatory follicles/AFCx100]. RESULTS For CFA and rFSH, respectively, mean FORT (adjusted for trial and age) was 85.0 versus 76.8 (p < 0.001) in the combined cohort, 86.0 versus 75.0 in ENGAGE (p < 0.001), 96.2 versus 79.2 in ENSURE (p = 0.070), and 74.1 versus 71.2 in PURSUE (p = 0.180); mean oocyte output (oocytes retrieved/AFCx100, adjusted for age) was 121.9 versus 107.3 in ENGAGE (p = 0.001), 133.5 versus 102.3 in ENSURE (p < 0.001), and 100.6 versus 98.1 in PURSUE (p = 0.463). FORT and oocyte output were consistent with the number of metaphase II oocytes retrieved for CFA and rFSH: 10.4 versus 8.8 in ENGAGE (p < 0.001), 10.3 versus 7.6 in ENSURE (p < 0.001), and 7.5 versus 7.2 in PURSUE (p = 0.37). No differences in pregnancy rates based on FORT were observed. CONCLUSIONS FORT was significantly higher in CFA-stimulated cycles and accurately predicted oocyte output. No association of FORT with pregnancy likelihood was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Griesinger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Valerie Teal
- Department of Late Development Statistics, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Christine McCrary Sisk
- Department of Global Scientific and Medical Publications, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Jane Ruman
- Department of Clinical Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA.
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Anderson RC, Newton CL, Anderson RA, Millar RP. Gonadotropins and Their Analogs: Current and Potential Clinical Applications. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:911-937. [PMID: 29982442 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The gonadotropin receptors LH receptor and FSH receptor play a central role in governing reproductive competency/fertility. Gonadotropin hormone analogs have been used clinically for decades in assisted reproductive therapies and in the treatment of various infertility disorders. Though these treatments are effective, the clinical protocols demand multiple injections, and the hormone preparations can lack uniformity and stability. The past two decades have seen a drive to develop chimeric and modified peptide analogs with more desirable pharmacokinetic profiles, with some displaying clinical efficacy, such as corifollitropin alfa, which is now in clinical use. More recently, low-molecular-weight, orally active molecules with activity at gonadotropin receptors have been developed. Some have excellent characteristics in animals and in human studies but have not reached the market-largely as a result of acquisitions by large pharma. Nonetheless, such molecules have the potential to mitigate risks currently associated with gonadotropin-based fertility treatments, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and the demands of injection-based therapies. There is also scope for novel use beyond the current remit of gonadotropin analogs in fertility treatments, including application as novel contraceptives; in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome; in the restoration of function to inactivating mutations of gonadotropin receptors; in the treatment of ovarian and prostate cancers; and in the prevention of bone loss and weight gain in postmenopausal women. Here we review the properties and clinical application of current gonadotropin preparations and their analogs, as well as the development of novel orally active, small-molecule nonpeptide analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Casarini L, Santi D, Brigante G, Simoni M. Two Hormones for One Receptor: Evolution, Biochemistry, Actions, and Pathophysiology of LH and hCG. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:549-592. [PMID: 29905829 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
LH and chorionic gonadotropin (CG) are glycoproteins fundamental to sexual development and reproduction. Because they act on the same receptor (LHCGR), the general consensus has been that LH and human CG (hCG) are equivalent. However, separate evolution of LHβ and hCGβ subunits occurred in primates, resulting in two molecules sharing ~85% identity and regulating different physiological events. Pituitary, pulsatile LH production results in an ~90-minute half-life molecule targeting the gonads to regulate gametogenesis and androgen synthesis. Trophoblast hCG, the "pregnancy hormone," exists in several isoforms and glycosylation variants with long half-lives (hours) and angiogenic potential and acts on luteinized ovarian cells as progestational. The different molecular features of LH and hCG lead to hormone-specific LHCGR binding and intracellular signaling cascades. In ovarian cells, LH action is preferentially exerted through kinases, phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) and phosphorylated AKT (also known as protein kinase B), resulting in irreplaceable proliferative/antiapoptotic signals and partial agonism on progesterone production in vitro. In contrast, hCG displays notable cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated steroidogenic and proapoptotic potential, which is masked by estrogen action in vivo. In vitro data have been confirmed by a large data set from assisted reproduction, because the steroidogenic potential of hCG positively affects the number of retrieved oocytes, and LH affects the pregnancy rate (per oocyte number). Leydig cell in vitro exposure to hCG results in qualitatively similar cAMP/PKA and pERK1/2 activation compared with LH and testosterone. The supposed equivalence of LH and hCG has been disproved by such data, highlighting their sex-specific functions and thus deeming it an oversight caused by incomplete understanding of clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
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44
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Ben-Menahem D. Preparation, characterization and application of long-acting FSH analogs for assisted reproduction. Theriogenology 2018; 112:11-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Lv W, Jiang P, Wang W, Wang X, Wang K, Chang L, Fang Y, Chen J. Electrotransfer of single-chain LH gene into skeletal muscle induces early ovarian development of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 259:12-19. [PMID: 29106969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) plays important roles in regulating steroidogenesis and reproductive development of vertebrates. In the present paper, we study function of LH on early ovarian development of orange-spotted grouper by electrotransfer of single-chain LH gene into skeletal muscle for the first time. Short-term and long-term injection experiments were performed in this work, respectively. For short-term injection experiments, fish received one electrotransfer with the plasmid in skeletal muscle, then blood and muscle around the injected area were sampled 1, 3, 5 and 7 days after the injection, mRNA expression levels of LH gene relative to 18S were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR) assays and serum 17β-estradiol (E2) levels were quantified by ELISA method. The results showed that levels of mRNA of LH gene in muscle and serum E2 level increased from 1 day to 7 days after the injection. For long-term injection experiments, fish received electrotransfer with the plasmid 4 times at weekly intervals in skeletal muscle. 48 h after the last injection, blood, gonad and hypothalamus samples were collected. Transcripts of cyp19a1a, cyp19a1b and gnrh1 genes and levels of serum E2 were separately analyzed by RT-PCR assays and ELISA method, and ovarian tissues were made of paraffin sections and stained by hematoxylin-eosin by method and observed by optical microscopy. The results suggested that long-term injection of LH gene into muscle upregulated transcripts of cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b and downregulated that of gnrh1, and stimulated E2 production and early-stage oogenesis. Moreover, statistical data showed that 9 of 10 ovaries of injected fish with LH gene began to develop after the long-term experiments. These data suggest that single-chain LH gene introduced into skeletal muscle via electrotransfer can be expressed and induce the early ovarian development of juvenile orange-spotted grouper. This work contributes to solve reproductive dysfunctions associated with low hormone levels of teleosts, further it may represent the demonstration at regulation of LH on early ovarian development of orange-spotted grouper to a certain extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuhong Lv
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Pengxin Jiang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Wenqiang Wang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Xiaotong Wang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Kai Wang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Linrui Chang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Yan Fang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Jun Chen
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China.
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Bar-Ilan A, Livnat T, Hoffmann M, Binder L, Zakar M, Guy R, Felikman Y, Moschcovich L, Shenkman B, Monroe D, Hershkovitz O, Kenet G, Hart G. In vitro characterization of MOD-5014, a novel long-acting carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP)-modified activated FVII. Haemophilia 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/hae.13428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - T. Livnat
- Sackler Medical School; Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
- National Hemophilia Center; Sheba Medical Center; Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan Israel
| | | | | | - M. Zakar
- OPKO Biologics; Kiryat Gat Israel
| | - R. Guy
- OPKO Biologics; Kiryat Gat Israel
| | | | | | - B. Shenkman
- Sackler Medical School; Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
- National Hemophilia Center; Sheba Medical Center; Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan Israel
| | - D. Monroe
- University of North Carolina; NC USA
| | | | - G. Kenet
- Sackler Medical School; Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
- National Hemophilia Center; Sheba Medical Center; Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan Israel
| | - G. Hart
- OPKO Biologics; Kiryat Gat Israel
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Huang CY, Chen GY, Shieh ML, Li HY. An extremely patient-friendly and efficient stimulation protocol for assisted reproductive technology in normal and high responders. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:18. [PMID: 29506543 PMCID: PMC5836459 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0335-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of oral progestin has been shown to effectively prevent luteining hormone (LH) surge during ovarian stimulation with daily human menopausal gonadotropin injections. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy of long-acting follicle stimulating hormone (long-acting FSH; corifollitropin alfa, Elonva®) use in progestin-primed ovarian stimulation for normal and high responders undergoing IVF/ICSI. METHODS This is a retrospective and proof-of-concept study. We developed an extremely patient-friendly protocol to be applied to forty-five normal or high responders, in which a single injection of corifollitropin alfa (Elonva®) was administered and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) was taken orally every day from the day after Elonva injection to the day of trigger. Seven days after Elonva injection, folliculometry and hormone tests were performed, followed by short-acting daily FSH/LH injections, if needed, until the day before trigger. Duration of stimulation, number of injections and visits before trigger, incidence of premature LH surge, the number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, cleavage rate, the rate of day 2 good embryos available, and cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate per retrieval were assessed. RESULTS The average age of the population was 34.7 years. Duration of stimulation was 9.4 days in average. Before trigger, only 3.6 injection shots and 1.4 visits were needed on average. There was no case of premature LH surge. Number of oocytes retrieved was 13.7, fertilization rate was 79.04%, cleavage rate was 91.11%, and day 2 good embryo rate was 64.34%, in average respectively. There was no case of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate per oocyte retrieval achieved a satisfactory level as 53.1%. CONCLUSIONS Our protocol consisting of long-acting FSH injection and oral MPA preventing LH surge reduces the number of injections and visits to an extreme and achieves a satisfactory reproductive outcome, and, therefore, is a really patient-friendly and effective approach to ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Yu Huang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 201, Shih-Pai Road Section 2, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Guan-Yeu Chen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 201, Shih-Pai Road Section 2, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Miawh-Lirng Shieh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 201, Shih-Pai Road Section 2, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hsin-Yang Li
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 201, Shih-Pai Road Section 2, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, Republic of China.
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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Gugliotta A, Ceaglio N, Etcheverrigaray M, Kratje R, Oggero M. Strategies to Develop Therapeutic N- and O-Hyperglycosylated Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1674:163-181. [PMID: 28921436 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7312-5_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Glycoengineering by N- and/or O-hyperglycosylation represents a procedure to introduce potential sites for adding N- and/or O-glycosyl structures to proteins with the aim of producing biotherapeutics with improved pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. In this chapter, a detailed description of the steps routinely performed to generate new proteins having high content of N- and/or O-glycosyl moieties is carried out. The rational strategy involves the initial stage of designing N- and/or O-hyperglycosylated muteins to be expressed by mammalian cells and includes the upstream and downstream processing stages necessary to develop hyperglycosylated versions of the proteins of interest with the purpose of beginning the long road toward producing biobetters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustina Gugliotta
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB, Cell Culture Laboratory, Ciudad Universitaria UNL-C.C. 242, (S3000ZAA), Santa Fe, Pcia. de Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Natalia Ceaglio
- CONICET, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marina Etcheverrigaray
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB, Cell Culture Laboratory, Ciudad Universitaria UNL-C.C. 242, (S3000ZAA), Santa Fe, Pcia. de Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Kratje
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB, Cell Culture Laboratory, Ciudad Universitaria UNL-C.C. 242, (S3000ZAA), Santa Fe, Pcia. de Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marcos Oggero
- UNL, CONICET, FBCB, Cell Culture Laboratory, Ciudad Universitaria UNL-C.C. 242, (S3000ZAA), Santa Fe, Pcia. de Santa Fe, Argentina.
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Siristatidis C, Dafopoulos K, Christoforidis N, Anifandis G, Pergialiotis V, Papantoniou N. Corifollitropin alfa compared with follitropin beta in GnRH-antagonist ovarian stimulation protocols in an unselected population undergoing IVF/ICSI. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:968-971. [PMID: 28508691 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1323203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant DNA technologies have produced Corifollitropin alfa (CFa) used during IVF/ICSI in order to keep the circulating FSH levels above the threshold necessary to support multi-follicular growth for a week. In this prospective case-control study, we compared 70 participants treated with 150 μg CFa combined with 150 IU of follitropin beta (study group) with 70 subfertile participants with matching baseline characteristics, conforming with the same inclusion criteria and treated with an antagonist protocol using follitropin beta (control group). Live birth was the primary outcome, while secondary outcome measures were IVF/ICSI cycles characteristics, including adverse events and complications. Live birth was determined in reduced rates in the study compared to the control group, reaching statistical significance [6/70 versus 20/70, p = 0.002], as also in the respective number of clinical pregnancies [9/70 versus 23/70, p = 0.005], although the incidence of miscarriage was similar for both groups [6/70 versus 5/70, p > 0.99]. Most of the secondary parameters examined were similar between groups. Logistic regression revealed that protocol and AFC had a direct impact on live birth. Ovarian stimulation with CFa does not seem to constitute an equally effective method as compared with follitropin beta to be offered in a general subfertile population seeking IVF/ICSI treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences , Larissa , Greece
| | | | - George Anifandis
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences , Larissa , Greece
| | - Vasileios Pergialiotis
- d Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papantoniou
- d Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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