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Ruggiero-Ruff RE, Le BH, Villa PA, Lainez NM, Athul SW, Das P, Ellsworth BS, Coss D. Single-Cell Transcriptomics Identifies Pituitary Gland Changes in Diet-Induced Obesity in Male Mice. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqad196. [PMID: 38146776 PMCID: PMC10791142 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic disease with increasing prevalence worldwide. Obesity leads to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, as well as endocrine alterations, reproductive disorders, changes in basal metabolism, and stress hormone production, all of which are regulated by the pituitary. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of pituitary glands from male mice fed control and high-fat diet (HFD) to determine obesity-mediated changes in pituitary cell populations and gene expression. We determined that HFD exposure is associated with dramatic changes in somatotrope and lactotrope populations, by increasing the proportion of somatotropes and decreasing the proportion of lactotropes. Fractions of other hormone-producing cell populations remained unaffected. Gene expression changes demonstrated that in HFD, somatotropes became more metabolically active, with increased expression of genes associated with cellular respiration, and downregulation of genes and pathways associated with cholesterol biosynthesis. Despite a lack of changes in gonadotrope fraction, genes important in the regulation of gonadotropin hormone production were significantly downregulated. Corticotropes and thyrotropes were the least affected in HFD, while melanotropes exhibited reduced proportion. Lastly, we determined that changes in plasticity and gene expression were associated with changes in hormone levels. Serum prolactin was decreased corresponding to reduced lactotrope fraction, while lower luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone in the serum corresponded to a decrease in transcription and translation. Taken together, our study highlights diet-mediated changes in pituitary gland populations and gene expression that play a role in altered hormone levels in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Ruggiero-Ruff
- Division of Biomedical Sciences; School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Brandon H Le
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology Bioinformatics Core Facility, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Pedro A Villa
- Division of Biomedical Sciences; School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Nancy M Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences; School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Sandria W Athul
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Pratyusa Das
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Buffy S Ellsworth
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences; School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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Liu S, Zhao X, Meng Q, Li B. Screening of potential biomarkers for polycystic ovary syndrome and identification of expression and immune characteristics. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293447. [PMID: 37883387 PMCID: PMC10602247 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) seriously affects the fertility and health of women of childbearing age. We look forward to finding potential biomarkers for PCOS that can aid clinical diagnosis. METHODS We acquired PCOS and normal granulosa cell (GC) expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. After data preprocessing, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by limma package, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were performed. Recursive feature elimination (RFE) algorithm and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis were used to acquire feature genes as potential biomarkers. Time-dependent receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) and Confusion matrix were used to verify the classification performance of biomarkers. Then, the expression characteristics of biomarkers in PCOS and normal cells were analyzed, and the insulin resistance (IR) score of samples was computed by ssGSEA. Immune characterization of biomarkers was evaluated using MCP counter and single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA). Finally, the correlation between biomarkers and the scores of each pathway was assessed. RESULTS We acquired 93 DEGs, and the enrichment results indicated that most of DEGs in PCOS group were significantly enriched in immune-related biological pathways. Further screening results indicated that JDP2 and HMOX1 were potential biomarkers. The area under ROC curve (AUC) value and Confusion matrix of the two biomarkers were ideal when separated and combined. In the combination, the training set AUC = 0.929 and the test set AUC = 0.917 indicated good diagnostic performance of the two biomarkers. Both biomarkers were highly expressed in the PCOS group, and both biomarkers, which should be suppressed in the preovulation phase, were elevated in PCOS tissues. The IR score of PCOS group was higher, and the expression of JDP2 and HMOX1 showed a significant positive correlation with IR score. Most immune cell scores and immune infiltration results were significantly higher in PCOS. Comprehensive analysis indicated that the two biomarkers had strong correlation with immune-related pathways. CONCLUSION We acquired two potential biomarkers, JDP2 and HMOX1. We found that they were highly expressed in the PCOS and had a strong positive correlation with immune-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- The Reproductive Laboratory, Shenyang Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuanpeng Zhao
- The Reproductive Laboratory, Shenyang Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Qingyan Meng
- The Reproductive Laboratory, Shenyang Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Baoshan Li
- The Reproductive Laboratory, Shenyang Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang, China
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Qiu T, Zhou J, Ji B, Yuan L, Weng T, Liu H. Transcription factor c-fos induces the development of premature ovarian insufficiency by regulating MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 network. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:144. [PMID: 37480147 PMCID: PMC10362627 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01212-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study attempted to investigate the role of transcription factor c-fos in the development of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) as well as the underlying mechanism involving the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 ceRNA network. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis was performed to extract POI-related microarray dataset for identifying the target genes. Interaction among c-fos, MALAT1, miR-22-3p, and STAT1 was analyzed. An in vivo POI mouse model was prepared followed by injection of sh-c-fos and sh-STAT1 lentiviruses. Besides, an in vitro POI cell model was constructed to study the regulatory roles of c-fos, MALAT1, miR-22-3p, and STAT1. RESULTS c-fos, MALAT1, and STAT1 were highly expressed in ovarian tissues from POI mice and CTX-induced KGN cells, while miR-22-3p was poorly expressed. c-fos targeted MALAT1 and promoted MALAT1 transcription. MALAT1 competitively bound to miR-22-3p and miR-22-3p could suppress STAT1 expression. Mechanically, c-fos aggravated ovarian function impairment in POI mice and inhibited KGN cell proliferation through regulation of the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 regulatory network. CONCLUSION Our findings highlighted inducing role of the transcription factor c-fos in POI through modulation of the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 ceRNA network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No. 613, West Huangpu Avenue, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China
| | - Bing Ji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China
| | - Liuyang Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China
| | - Tingsong Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China
| | - Huishu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No. 613, West Huangpu Avenue, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, P.R. China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9, Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510623, P.R. China.
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Tian Y, Shao J, Bai S, Xu Z, Bi C. Palmitic acid-induced microRNA-143-5p expression promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of retinal pigment epithelium via negatively regulating JDP2. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:3465-3479. [PMID: 37179125 PMCID: PMC10449279 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is the most crucial step in the etiopathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy. This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-143-5p in the EMT of RPE cells induced by palmitic acid (PA). METHODS ARPE-19 cells were treated with PA to induce EMT, followed by E-cadherin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and the microRNA expression profile analyses. Subsequently, miR-143-5p mimics/inhibitors, and plasmids expressing its predicted target gene c-JUN-dimerization protein 2 (JDP2), were transfected in ARPE-19 cells using lipofectamine 3000, and followed by PA treatment. Their impacts on EMT were explored using wound healing and Western blot assays. Additionally, miR-143-5p mimics and JDP2-expressing plasmid were co-transfected into ARPE-19 cells and treated with PA to explore whether PA induced EMT of ARPE-19 cells via the miR-143-5p/JDP2 axis. RESULTS PA decreased E-cadherin expression and increased those of α-SMA and miR-143-5p. Inhibiting miR-143-5p suppressed the migration of ARPE-19 cells and altered the expressions of E-cadherin and α-SMA. However, additional PA treatment attenuated these alterations. JDP2 was a target of miR-143-5p. Overexpression of JDP2 inhibited the EMT of ARPE-19 cells, resulting in α-SMA downregulation and E-cadherin upregulation, which were reversed by additional PA treatment via inhibiting JDP2 expression. Overexpression of miR-143-5p reversed the effect of JDP2 on the EMT of ARPE-19 cells and additional PA treatment markedly enhanced the effect of miR-143-5p mimics. CONCLUSION PA promotes EMT of ARPE-19 cells via regulating the miR-143-5p/JDP2 axis, and these findings provide significant insights into the potential targeting of this axis to treat proliferative vitreoretinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated Guangren Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Juan Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated Guangren Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Shuwei Bai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated Guangren Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Zhiguo Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated Guangren Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Chunchao Bi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated Guangren Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
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Alonso CAI, David CD, Toufaily C, Wang Y, Zhou X, Ongaro L, Nudelman G, Nair VD, Ruf-Zamojski F, Boehm U, Sealfon SC, Bernard DJ. Activating Transcription Factor 3 Stimulates Follicle-Stimulating Hormone-β Expression In Vitro But Is Dispensable for Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Production in Murine Gonadotropes In Vivo. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad050. [PMID: 36951304 PMCID: PMC10282924 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a dimeric glycoprotein produced by pituitary gonadotrope cells, regulates spermatogenesis in males and ovarian follicle growth in females. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb) transcription, though the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. To address this gap in knowledge, we examined changes in pituitary gene expression in GnRH-deficient mice (hpg) treated with a regimen of exogenous GnRH that increases pituitary Fshb but not luteinizing hormone β (Lhb) messenger RNA levels. Activating transcription factor 3 (Atf3) was among the most upregulated genes. Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) can heterodimerize with members of the activator protein 1 family to regulate gene transcription. Co-expression of ATF3 with JunB stimulated murine Fshb, but not Lhb, promoter-reporter activity in homologous LβT2b cells. ATF3 also synergized with a constitutively active activin type I receptor to increase endogenous Fshb expression in these cells. Nevertheless, FSH production was intact in gonadotrope-specific Atf3 knockout [conditional knockout (cKO)] mice. Ovarian follicle development, ovulation, and litter sizes were equivalent between cKOs and controls. Testis weights and sperm counts did not differ between genotypes. Following gonadectomy, increases in LH secretion were enhanced in cKO animals. Though FSH levels did not differ between genotypes, post-gonadectomy increases in pituitary Fshb and gonadotropin α subunit expression were more pronounced in cKO than control mice. These data indicate that ATF3 can selectively stimulate Fshb expression in vitro but is not required for FSH production in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A I Alonso
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Caroline D David
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Chirine Toufaily
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - German Nudelman
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assay, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Venugopalan D Nair
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assay, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Frederique Ruf-Zamojski
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assay, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg 66421, Germany
| | - Stuart C Sealfon
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assay, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
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Prastiya RA, Madyawati SP, Sari SY, Nugroho AP. Effect of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels on egg-laying frequency in hens. Vet World 2022; 15:2890-2895. [PMID: 36718318 PMCID: PMC9880839 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2890-2895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Gonadotropins, for example, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), are hormones that affect the reproductive process. In hens, optimal levels of FSH and LH can stimulate follicle growth fairly rapidly and thereby increase egg production through follicle development and increased ovulation. Follicle-stimulating hormone acts in the early stages of follicular growth, whereas LH acts on pre-ovulatory follicles. Normal follicular growth is the result of the complementary action of FSH and LH. Low FSH and LH levels result in the formation of follicles but a lack of egg production in chickens. This study aimed to investigate FSH and LH hormone levels from layer chickens with different egg-laying frequencies. Materials and Methods Fifty blood serum samples were collected from 54-week-old ISA brown strain hens that were divided into five groups (with 10 hens per group) as follows: Hens that lay eggs (i) every day, (ii) once every 2 days, (iii) twice every 3 days, (iv) 3 times every 4 days, and (v) hens that do not lay eggs. Follicle-stimulating hormone and LH levels were measured in samples using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance. Results Follicle-stimulating hormone levels were significantly associated with the frequency of egg laying in ISA brown strain hens (p < 0.05); the highest FSH level (869.005 ± 149.194 pg/mL) was found in hens that lay eggs every day. In contrast, the highest LH level (51.386 ± 2.410 mIU/mL) was found in hens that lay eggs every 2 days. Conclusion High level of FSH (869.005 ± 149.194 pg/mL) was associated with a high frequency of egg laying (every day) in ISA brown strain hens, and LH level of around 30.406 pg/mL was associated with daily egg laying in these hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ragil Angga Prastiya
- Department of Veterinary Sciences Division of Veterinary Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia,Department of Reproduction, School of Health and Life Sciences (SIKIA), Universitas Airlangga, Banyuwangi, Indonesia,Corresponding author: Ragil Angga Prastiya, e-mail: Co-authors: SPM: , SYS: , APN:
| | - Sri Pantja Madyawati
- Department of Veterinary Sciences Division of Veterinary Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Stamatiades GA, Toufaily C, Kim HK, Zhou X, Thompson IR, Carroll RS, Chen M, Weinstein LS, Offermanns S, Boehm U, Bernard DJ, Kaiser UB. Deletion of Gαq/11 or Gαs Proteins in Gonadotropes Differentially Affects Gonadotropin Production and Secretion in Mice. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6453384. [PMID: 34864945 PMCID: PMC8711759 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulates gonadal function via its stimulatory effects on gonadotropin production by pituitary gonadotrope cells. GnRH is released from the hypothalamus in pulses and GnRH pulse frequency differentially regulates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) synthesis and secretion. The GnRH receptor (GnRHR) is a G protein-coupled receptor that canonically activates Gα q/11-dependent signaling on ligand binding. However, the receptor can also couple to Gα s and in vitro data suggest that toggling between different G proteins may contribute to GnRH pulse frequency decoding. For example, as we show here, knockdown of Gα s impairs GnRH-stimulated FSH synthesis at low- but not high-pulse frequency in a model gonadotrope-derived cell line. We next used a Cre-lox conditional knockout approach to interrogate the relative roles of Gα q/11 and Gα s proteins in gonadotrope function in mice. Gonadotrope-specific Gα q/11 knockouts exhibit hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility, akin to the phenotypes seen in GnRH- or GnRHR-deficient mice. In contrast, under standard conditions, gonadotrope-specific Gα s knockouts produce gonadotropins at normal levels and are fertile. However, the LH surge amplitude is blunted in Gα s knockout females and postgonadectomy increases in FSH and LH are reduced both in males and females. These data suggest that GnRH may signal principally via Gα q/11 to stimulate gonadotropin production, but that Gα s plays important roles in gonadotrope function in vivo when GnRH secretion is enhanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Stamatiades
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- University of Crete, School of Medicine, 71500 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Chirine Toufaily
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, H3G 1Y6 Québec, Canada
| | - Han Kyeol Kim
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, H3G 1Y6 Québec, Canada
| | - Iain R Thompson
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Rona S Carroll
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Min Chen
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
| | - Lee S Weinstein
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
| | - Stefan Offermanns
- Department of Pharmacology, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University School of Medicine, 66424 Homburg, Germany
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, H3G 1Y6 Québec, Canada
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Correspondence: Ursula B. Kaiser, MD, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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ILC Differentiation in the Thymus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1365:25-39. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-16-8387-9_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Advances in the Regulation of Mammalian Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Secretion. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041134. [PMID: 33921032 PMCID: PMC8071398 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reproduction of mammals is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Follicle stimulating hormone, as one of the gonadotropins secreted by the pituitary gland, plays an immeasurable role. This article mainly reviews the molecular basis and classical signaling pathways that regulate the synthesis and secretion of follicle stimulating hormone, and summarizes its internal molecular mechanism, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the research of mammalian reproduction regulation and the application of follicle stimulating hormone in production practice. Abstract Mammalian reproduction is mainly driven and regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, is a key regulator that ultimately affects animal fertility. As a dimeric glycoprotein hormone, the biological specificity of FSH is mainly determined by the β subunit. As research techniques are being continuously innovated, studies are exploring the underlying molecular mechanism regulating the secretion of mammalian FSH. This article will review the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways systematically regulating FSH synthesis and will present the latest hypothesis about the nuclear cross-talk among the various endocrine-induced pathways for transcriptional regulation of the FSH β subunit. This article will provide novel ideas and potential targets for the improved use of FSH in livestock breeding and therapeutic development.
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Diao X, Yao L, Wang Y, Zhang X, Sun H, Lao K, Ma H. Identification of critical miRNAs and mRNAs associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:1416-1424. [PMID: 33590597 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complicated endocrine and metabolic abnormality diseases common in women of child-bearing age. This study aims to screen out critical miRNAs and mRNAs associated with PCOS, which may be conducive to offer novel insights and treatment for the diseases. METHODS Three mRNA datasets and one miRNA dataset derived from granulosa cells of patients with PCOS and normal controls were downloaded to obtain the differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and miRNAs (DEmiRNAs). Then, DEmiRNA-target DEmRNAs analysis and functional annotation of DEmiRNA-target DEmRNAs were performed. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) validation of the expression of the selected DEmRNAs and DEmiRNAs were performed. RESULTS A total of 1643 DEmRNAs, 88 DEmiRNAs, 2406 DEmiRNA (down)-DEmRNA (up), and 2179 DEmiRNA (up)-DEmRNA (down) pairs were obtained. The functional annotation of DEmiRNA-target DEmRNAs revealed that C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway, Steroid biosynthesis and Galactose metabolism were significantly enriched KEGG pathways. CONCLUSION These findings may provide make contribution to understanding PCOS pathogenesis, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghua Diao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Lijuan Yao
- Department of Obstetrics, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Yanlin Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Xianghui Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Hongliang Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Kaixue Lao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - He Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
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Peng V, Georgescu C, Bakowska A, Pankow A, Qian L, Wren JD, Sun XH. E proteins orchestrate dynamic transcriptional cascades implicated in the suppression of the differentiation of group 2 innate lymphoid cells. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:14866-14877. [PMID: 32817168 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) represent a subset of newly discovered immune cells that are involved in immune reactions against microbial pathogens, host allergic reactions, as well as tissue repair. The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors collectively called E proteins powerfully suppress the differentiation of ILC2s from bone marrow and thymic progenitors while promoting the development of B and T lymphocytes. How E proteins exert the suppression is not well understood. Here we investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms using inducible gain and loss of function approaches in ILC2s and their precursors, respectively. Cross-examination of RNA-seq and ATAC sequencing data obtained at different time points reveals a set of genes that are likely direct targets of E proteins. Consequently, a widespread down-regulation of chromatin accessibility occurs at a later time point, possibly due to the activation of transcriptional repressor genes such as Cbfa2t3 and Jdp2 The large number of genes repressed by gain of E protein function leads to the down-regulation of a transcriptional network important for ILC2 differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Peng
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Constantin Georgescu
- Program in Genes and Human Diseases, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Anna Bakowska
- Program in Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Aneta Pankow
- Program in Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Liangyue Qian
- Program in Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jonathan D Wren
- Program in Genes and Human Diseases, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Xiao-Hong Sun
- Program in Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.
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Porter BA, Ortiz MA, Bratslavsky G, Kotula L. Structure and Function of the Nuclear Receptor Superfamily and Current Targeted Therapies of Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11121852. [PMID: 31771198 PMCID: PMC6966469 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11121852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor superfamily comprises a large group of proteins with functions essential for cell signaling, survival, and proliferation. There are multiple distinctions between nuclear superfamily classes defined by hallmark differences in function, ligand binding, tissue specificity, and DNA binding. In this review, we utilize the initial classification system, which defines subfamilies based on structure and functional difference. The defining feature of the nuclear receptor superfamily is that these proteins function as transcription factors. The loss of transcriptional regulation or gain of functioning of these receptors is a hallmark in numerous diseases. For example, in prostate cancer, the androgen receptor is a primary target for current prostate cancer therapies. Targeted cancer therapies for nuclear hormone receptors have been more feasible to develop than others due to the ligand availability and cell permeability of hormones. To better target these receptors, it is critical to understand their structural and functional regulation. Given that late-stage cancers often develop hormone insensitivity, we will explore the strengths and pitfalls of targeting other transcription factors outside of the nuclear receptor superfamily such as the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Baylee A. Porter
- Department of Urology, Upstate Cancer Center, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (B.A.P.); (M.A.O.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Maria A. Ortiz
- Department of Urology, Upstate Cancer Center, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (B.A.P.); (M.A.O.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Gennady Bratslavsky
- Department of Urology, Upstate Cancer Center, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (B.A.P.); (M.A.O.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Leszek Kotula
- Department of Urology, Upstate Cancer Center, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (B.A.P.); (M.A.O.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-315-464-1690
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Wang XS, Zhang S, Xu Z, Zheng SQ, Long J, Wang DS. Genome-wide identification, evolution of ATF/CREB family and their expression in Nile tilapia. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 237:110324. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2019.110324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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14
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Yeh DM, Coss D. PACAP induces FSHβ gene expression via EPAC. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 492:110438. [PMID: 31034837 PMCID: PMC7141571 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), are heterodimers of a common α subunit and unique β subunits. Regulation of their levels, primarily by GnRH, is critical for reproductive function. Several other hormones modulate gonadotropin expression, either independently or by modifying the responsiveness to GnRH. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP) is one such hormone. Four-hour treatment of female mouse primary pituitary cells by either GnRH or PACAP induced FSHβ expression, while 24-h treatment repressed FSHβ. Both PACAP and GnRH caused FSH secretion into the medium. In the gonadotropes, PACAP activates primarily Gαs and increases concentration of cAMP, while GnRH primarily functions via Gαq and increases calcium concentration. Herein, we compared PACAP and GnRH signaling pathways that lead to the induction of FSHβ expression. Interestingly, constitutively active Gαs represses LHβ and induces FSHβ expression, while Gαq induces both β-subunits. We determined that FSHβ induction by PACAP requires functional EPAC, a cAMP sensor protein that serves as a guanine exchange factors for small G proteins that then bridges cAMP signaling to MAPK pathway. We further demonstrate that in addition to the prototypical small G protein Ras, two members of the Rho subfamily, Rac and CDC42 are also necessary for PACAP induction of FSHβ, likely via activation of p38 MAPK that leads to induction of cFOS, a critical transcription factor that is necessary and sufficient for FSHβ induction. Therefore, PACAP-induced cAMP pathway leads to MAPK activation that stimulates cFOS induction, to induce the expression of FSHβ subunit and increase FSH concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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Schang G, Toufaily C, Bernard DJ. HDAC inhibitors impair Fshb subunit expression in murine gonadotrope cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2019; 62:67-78. [PMID: 30481159 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fertility is dependent on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a product of gonadotrope cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and intra-pituitary activins are regarded as the primary drivers of FSH synthesis and secretion. Both stimulate expression of the FSH beta subunit gene (Fshb), although the underlying mechanisms of GnRH action are poorly described relative to those of the activins. There is currently no consensus on how GnRH regulates Fshb transcription, as results vary across species and between in vivo and in vitro approaches. One of the more fully developed models suggests that the murine Fshb promoter is tonically repressed by histone deacetylases (HDACs) and that GnRH relieves this repression, at least in immortalized murine gonadotrope-like cells (LβT2 and αT3-1). In contrast, we observed that the class I/II HDAC inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) robustly inhibited basal, activin A-, and GnRH-induced Fshb mRNA expression in LβT2 cells and in primary murine pituitary cultures. Similar results were obtained with the class I specific HDAC inhibitor, entinostat, whereas two class II-specific inhibitors, MC1568 and TMP269, had no effects on Fshb expression. Collectively, these data suggest that class I HDACs are positive, not negative, regulators of Fshb expression in vitro and that, contrary to earlier reports, GnRH may not stimulate Fshb by inhibiting HDAC-mediated repression of the gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chirine Toufaily
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
The hypothalamic decapeptide, GnRH, is the gatekeeper of mammalian reproductive development and function. Activation of specific, high-affinity cell surface receptors (GnRH receptors) on gonadotropes by GnRH triggers signal transduction cascades to stimulate the coordinated synthesis and secretion of the pituitary gonadotropins FSH and LH. These hormones direct gonadal steroidogenesis and gametogenesis, making their tightly regulated production and secretion essential for normal sexual maturation and reproductive health. FSH and LH are glycoprotein heterodimers comprised of a common α-subunit and a unique β-subunit (FSHβ and LHβ, respectively), which determines the biological specificity of the gonadotropins. The unique β-subunit is the rate-limiting step for the production of the mature gonadotropins. Therefore, FSH synthesis is regulated at the transcriptional level by Fshb gene expression. The overarching goal of this review is to expand our understanding of the mechanisms and pathways underlying the carefully orchestrated control of FSH synthesis and secretion by GnRH, focusing on the transcriptional regulation of the Fshb gene. Identification of these regulatory mechanisms is not only fundamental to our understanding of normal reproductive function but will also provide a context for the elucidation of the pathophysiology of reproductive disorders and infertility to lead to potential new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Stamatiades
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Yale New Haven Health, Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, Connecticut
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Rona S Carroll
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence: Ursula B. Kaiser, MD, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 221 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115. E-mail:
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Lainez NM, Coss D. Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Represses GnRH Gene Expression via cFOS during Inflammation in Male Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2019; 108:291-307. [PMID: 30630179 PMCID: PMC6561803 DOI: 10.1159/000496754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms whereby neuroinflammation negatively affects neuronal function in the hypothalamus are not clear. Our previous study determined that obesity-mediated chronic inflammation elicits sex-specific impairment in reproductive function via reduction in spine density in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Neuroinflammation and subsequent decrease in GnRH neuron spine density was specific for male mice, while protection in females was independent of ovarian estrogens. METHODS To examine if neuroinflammation-induced cytokines can directly regulate GnRH gene expression, herein we examined signaling pathways and mechanisms in males in vivo and in GnRH-expressing cell line, GT1-7. RESULTS GnRH neurons express cytokine receptors, and chronic or acute neuroinflammation represses GnRH gene expression in vivo. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in particular represses GnRH expression in GT1-7 cells, while other cytokines do not. STAT3 and MAPK pathways are activated following LIF treatment, but only MAPK pathway, specifically p38α, is sufficient to repress the GnRH gene. LIF induces cFOS that represses the GnRH gene via the -1,793 site in the enhancer region. In vivo, following high-fat diet, cFOS is induced in GnRH neurons and neurons juxtaposed to the leaky blood brain barrier of the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, but not in the neurons further away. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the increase in LIF due to neuroinflammation induces cFOS and represses the GnRH gene. Therefore, in addition to synaptic changes in GnRH neurons, neuroinflammatory cytokines directly regulate gene expression and reproductive function, and the specificity for neuronal targets may stem from the proximity to the fenestrated capillaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy M Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA,
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18
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Wang XH, Liu Q, Shao ZT. Deletion of JDP2 improves neurological outcomes of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice: Inactivation of Caspase-3. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 504:805-811. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.08.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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19
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Coss D. Regulation of reproduction via tight control of gonadotropin hormone levels. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:116-130. [PMID: 28342855 PMCID: PMC6457911 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. GnRH from the hypothalamus regulates synthesis and secretion of gonadotropins, LH and FSH, which then control steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. In females, serum LH and FSH levels exhibit rhythmic changes throughout the menstrual or estrous cycle that are correlated with pulse frequency of GnRH. Lack of gonadotropins leads to infertility or amenorrhea. Dysfunctions in the tightly controlled ratio due to levels slightly outside the normal range occur in a larger number of women and are correlated with polycystic ovaries and premature ovarian failure. Since the etiology of these disorders is largely unknown, studies in cell and mouse models may provide novel candidates for investigations in human population. Hence, understanding the mechanisms whereby GnRH regulates gonadotropin hormone levels will provide insight into the physiology and pathophysiology of the reproductive system. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of GnRH regulation of gonadotropin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, United States.
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20
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Stamatiades GA, Kaiser UB. Gonadotropin regulation by pulsatile GnRH: Signaling and gene expression. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:131-141. [PMID: 29102564 PMCID: PMC5812824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The precise orchestration of hormonal regulation at all levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is essential for normal reproductive function and fertility. The pulsatile secretion of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates the synthesis and release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) by pituitary gonadotropes. GnRH acts by binding to its high affinity seven-transmembrane receptor (GnRHR) on the cell surface of anterior pituitary gonadotropes. Different signaling cascades and transcriptional mechanisms are activated, depending on the variation in GnRH pulse frequency, to stimulate the synthesis and release of FSH and LH. While changes in GnRH pulse frequency may explain some of the differential regulation of FSH and LH, other factors, such as activin, inhibin and sex steroids, also contribute to gonadotropin production. In this review, we focus on the transcriptional regulation of the gonadotropin subunit genes and the signaling pathways activated by pulsatile GnRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Stamatiades
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
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21
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Jonak CR, Lainez NM, Boehm U, Coss D. GnRH Receptor Expression and Reproductive Function Depend on JUN in GnRH Receptor‒Expressing Cells. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1496-1510. [PMID: 29409045 PMCID: PMC5839737 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus regulates synthesis and secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gonadotropes. LH and FSH are heterodimers composed of a common α-subunit and unique β-subunits, which provide biological specificity and are limiting components of mature hormone synthesis. Gonadotrope cells respond to GnRH via specific expression of the GnRH receptor (Gnrhr). GnRH induces the expression of gonadotropin genes and of the Gnrhr by activation of specific transcription factors. The JUN (c-Jun) transcription factor binds to AP-1 sites in the promoters of target genes and mediates induction of the FSHβ gene and of the Gnrhr in gonadotrope-derived cell lines. To analyze the role of JUN in reproductive function in vivo, we generated a mouse model that lacks JUN specifically in GnRH receptor‒expressing cells (conditional JUN knockout; JUN-cKO). JUN-cKO mice displayed profound reproductive anomalies such as reduced LH levels resulting in lower gonadal steroid levels, longer estrous cycles in females, and diminished sperm numbers in males. Unexpectedly, FSH levels were unchanged in these animals, whereas Gnrhr expression in the pituitary was reduced. Steroidogenic enzyme expression was reduced in the gonads of JUN-cKO mice, likely as a consequence of reduced LH levels. GnRH receptor‒driven Cre activity was detected in the hypothalamus but not in the GnRH neuron. Female, but not male, JUN-cKO mice exhibited reduced GnRH expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that GnRH receptor‒expression levels depend on JUN and are critical for reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie R. Jonak
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Nancy M. Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
- Correspondence: Djurdjica Coss, PhD, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, 303 SOM Research Building, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521. E-mail:
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Stern E, Ruf-Zamojski F, Zalepa-King L, Pincas H, Choi SG, Peskin CS, Hayot F, Turgeon JL, Sealfon SC. Modeling and high-throughput experimental data uncover the mechanisms underlying Fshb gene sensitivity to gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse frequency. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:9815-9829. [PMID: 28385888 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.783886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine control of reproduction by brain-secreted pulses of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) represents a longstanding puzzle about extracellular signal decoding mechanisms. GnRH regulates the pituitary gonadotropin's follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), both of which are heterodimers specified by unique β subunits (FSHβ/LHβ). Contrary to Lhb, Fshb gene induction has a preference for low-frequency GnRH pulses. To clarify the underlying regulatory mechanisms, we developed three biologically anchored mathematical models: 1) parallel activation of Fshb inhibitory factors (e.g. inhibin α and VGF nerve growth factor-inducible), 2) activation of a signaling component with a refractory period (e.g. G protein), and 3) inactivation of a factor needed for Fshb induction (e.g. growth differentiation factor 9). Simulations with all three models recapitulated the Fshb expression levels obtained in pituitary gonadotrope cells perifused with varying GnRH pulse frequencies. Notably, simulations altering average concentration, pulse duration, and pulse frequency revealed that the apparent frequency-dependent pattern of Fshb expression in model 1 actually resulted from variations in average GnRH concentration. In contrast, models 2 and 3 showed "true" pulse frequency sensing. To resolve which components of this GnRH signal induce Fshb, we developed a high-throughput parallel experimental system. We analyzed over 4,000 samples in experiments with varying near-physiological GnRH concentrations and pulse patterns. Whereas Egr1 and Fos genes responded only to variations in average GnRH concentration, Fshb levels were sensitive to both average concentration and true pulse frequency. These results provide a foundation for understanding the role of multiple regulatory factors in modulating Fshb gene activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Charles S Peskin
- the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, New York 10012, and
| | | | - Judith L Turgeon
- the Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95616
| | - Stuart C Sealfon
- From the Department of Neurology and .,the Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029
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