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Asunción-Alvarez D, Palacios J, Ybañez-Julca RO, Rodriguez-Silva CN, Nwokocha C, Cifuentes F, Greensmith DJ. Calcium signaling in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells: sex differences and the influence of estrogens and androgens. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H950-H970. [PMID: 38334967 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00600.2023] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Calcium signaling in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is essential for the regulation of vascular tone. However, the changes to intracellular Ca2+ concentrations are often influenced by sex differences. Furthermore, a large body of evidence shows that sex hormone imbalance leads to dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling and this is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, the effects of estrogens and androgens on vascular calcium-handling proteins are discussed, with emphasis on the associated genomic or nongenomic molecular mechanisms. The experimental models from which data were collected were also considered. The review highlights 1) in female ECs, transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) enhance Ca2+-dependent nitric oxide (NO) generation. In males, only transient receptor potential canonical 3 (TRPC3) plays a fundamental role in this effect. 2) Female VSMCs have lower cytosolic Ca2+ levels than males due to differences in the activity and expression of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 (Orai1), calcium voltage-gated channel subunit-α1C (CaV1.2), Na+-K+-2Cl- symporter (NKCC1), and the Na+/K+-ATPase. 3) When compared with androgens, the influence of estrogens on Ca2+ homeostasis, vascular tone, and incidence of vascular disease is better documented. 4) Many studies use supraphysiological concentrations of sex hormones, which may limit the physiological relevance of outcomes. 5) Sex-dependent differences in Ca2+ signaling mean both sexes ought to be included in experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Asunción-Alvarez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Javier Palacios
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Roberto O Ybañez-Julca
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Cristhian N Rodriguez-Silva
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Chukwuemeka Nwokocha
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences Physiology Section, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Fredi Cifuentes
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental (EphyL), Instituto Antofagasta (IA), Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - David J Greensmith
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, The University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
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Lucas-Herald AK, Montezano AC, Alves-Lopes R, Haddow L, O’Toole S, Flett M, Lee B, Amjad SB, Steven M, McNeilly J, Brooksbank K, Touyz RM, Ahmed SF. Effects of Sex Hormones on Vascular Reactivity in Boys With Hypospadias. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e735-e744. [PMID: 37672642 PMCID: PMC10795938 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad525] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arteries from boys with hypospadias demonstrate hypercontractility and impaired vasorelaxation. The role of sex hormones in these responses in unclear. AIMS We compared effects of sex steroids on vascular reactivity in healthy boys and boys with hypospadias. METHODS Excess foreskin tissue was obtained from 11 boys undergoing hypospadias repair (cases) and 12 undergoing routine circumcision (controls) (median age [range], 1.5 [1.2-2.7] years) and small resistance arteries were isolated. Vessels were mounted on wire myographs and vascular reactivity was assessed in the absence/presence of 17β-estradiol, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and testosterone. RESULTS In controls, testosterone and 17β-estradiol increased contraction (percent of maximum contraction [Emax]: 83.74 basal vs 125.4 after testosterone, P < .0002; and 83.74 vs 110.2 after estradiol, P = .02). 17β-estradiol reduced vasorelaxation in arteries from controls (Emax: 10.6 vs 15.6 to acetylcholine, P < .0001; and Emax: 14.6 vs 20.5 to sodium nitroprusside, P < .0001). In hypospadias, testosterone (Emax: 137.9 vs 107.2, P = .01) and 17β-estradiol (Emax: 156.9 vs 23.6, P < .0001) reduced contraction. Androgens, but not 17β-estradiol, increased endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasorelaxation in cases (Emax: 77.3 vs 51.7 with testosterone, P = .02; and vs 48.2 with DHT to acetylcholine, P = .0001; Emax: 43.0 vs 39.5 with testosterone, P = .02; and 39.6 vs 37.5 with DHT to sodium nitroprusside, P = .04). CONCLUSION In healthy boys, testosterone and 17β-estradiol promote a vasoconstrictor phenotype, whereas in boys with hypospadias, these sex hormones reduce vasoconstriction, with androgens promoting vasorelaxation. Differences in baseline artery function may therefore be sex hormone-independent and the impact of early-life variations in androgen exposure on vascular function needs further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K Lucas-Herald
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
| | - Augusto C Montezano
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Center, McGill University, 1001 Boul Décarie, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Rheure Alves-Lopes
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Laura Haddow
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Stuart O’Toole
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - Martyn Flett
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - Boma Lee
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - S Basith Amjad
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - Mairi Steven
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - Jane McNeilly
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK
| | - Katriona Brooksbank
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Center for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Center, McGill University, 1001 Boul Décarie, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
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Filatova VA, Rozhivanov RV, Bondarenko IZ, Ioutsi VA, Andreeva EN, Mel'nichenko GA, Mokrysheva NG. [Features of steroidogenesis and arterial hypertension in men in different types of "physiological" male hyperandrogenism]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2023; 69:80-91. [PMID: 37448275 DOI: 10.14341/probl13226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM To reveal the peculiarities of steroidogenesis and arterial hypertension in «physiological» hyperandrogenism in men. MATERIALS AND METHODS One-stage simultaneous study. The groups of men with hyperandrogenism caused by increased total testosterone (n=34) and those with hyperandrogenism caused by increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (n=66) were compared. In determining the type of hyperandrogenism and allocating patients to groups, DHT and total testosterone levels were determined by enhanced chemiluminescence. Subgroups of men with and without arterial hypertension were compared in the group of patients with hyperandrogenism due to an increase in total testosterone. Body mass index, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse, and LH, SBHG, estradiol, blood multisteroid levels by isotope dilution liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry, glucose, blood lipid spectrum, uric acid, creatinine, renin, potassium, sodium, and blood chloride were assessed in all patients. Patients with arterial hypertension additionally underwent daily BP monitoring, albuminuria assessment, electrocardiography, ocular fundus examination. The baseline threshold level of significance was p<0.05. For multiple comparisons, the p significance level was calculated using the Bonferroni correction. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were found in the levels of 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and androstenedione, which were higher in men with elevated levels of total testosterone. No statistically significant differences in other laboratory parameters were found. No cases of increased blood pressure were detected in the group of men with elevated DHT. In the group of men with elevated total testosterone, 23,5% of men with arterial hypertension without targetorgan lesions were identified, while hyperandrogenism was associated with 17,6% of cases. Arterial hypertension associated with hyperandrogenism was characterized by a rise in blood pressure in the early morning hours. Estradiol levels, while remaining within normal limits, were statistically significantly lower in patients with arterial hypertension compared with men with elevated testosterone but without hypertension. CONCLUSION No cases of arterial hypertension were observed in «physiological» hyperandrogenism due to elevated DHT levels, whereas its incidence in «physiological» hyperandrogenism due to elevated total testosterone was 23,5%. The features of steroidogenesis were increased production of 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and androstenedione in men with testosterone hyperandrogenism and decreased estradiol production in patients with arterial hypertension compared with patients without testosterone hyperandrogenism.
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Rouver WDN, Delgado NTB, Gonçalves LT, Giesen JAS, Santos da Costa C, Merlo E, Damasceno Costa E, Lemos VS, Bernardes Graceli J, Santos RLD. Sex hormones and vascular reactivity: a temporal evaluation in resistance arteries of male rats. J Mol Endocrinol 2023; 70:e220147. [PMID: 36476761 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0147] [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: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The role of androgens in vascular reactivity is controversial, particularly regarding their age-related actions. The objective of this study was to conduct a temporal evaluation of the vascular reactivity of resistance arteries of young male rats, as well as to understand how male sex hormones can influence the vascular function of these animals. Endothelium-mediated relaxation was characterized in third-order mesenteric arteries of 10-, 12-, 16-, and 18w (week-old) male rats. Concentration-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh, 0.1 nmol/L-10 µmol/L) were constructed in arteries previously contracted with phenylephrine (PE, 3 µmol/L), before and after the use of nitric oxide synthase or cyclooxygenase inhibitors. PE concentration-response curves (1 nmol/L-100 μmol/L) were also built. The levels of vascular nitric oxide, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide were assessed and histomorphometry analysis was performed. The 18w group had impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation. All groups showed prostanoid-independent and nitric oxide-dependent vasodilatory response, although this dependence seems to be smaller in the 18w group. The 18w group had the lowest nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide production, in addition to the highest superoxide anion levels. Besides functional impairment, 18w animals showed morphological differences in third-order mesenteric arteries compared with the other groups. Our data show that time-dependent exposure to male sex hormones appears to play an important role in the development of vascular changes that can lead to impaired vascular reactivity in mesenteric arteries, which could be related to the onset of age-related cardiovascular changes in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wender do Nascimento Rouver
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Leticia Tinoco Gonçalves
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Charles Santos da Costa
- Department of Morphology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Merlo
- Department of Morphology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Damasceno Costa
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Virginia Soares Lemos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jones Bernardes Graceli
- Department of Morphology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Roger Lyrio Dos Santos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
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Perusquía M. Androgens and Non-Genomic vascular responses in hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115200. [PMID: 35926652 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Arterial hypertension is a global public health concern. In the last few years, the interest in androgen deficiency has been growing, and the association between androgens and high blood pressure (BP) is still controversial. One purpose of this review was to summarize the available findings in order to clarify whether male sex steroid hormones have beneficial or harmful effect on BP. The second purpose was to enhance the recognition of the acute non-genomic sex-independent vasorelaxing effect of androgens. Remarkably, BP variation is expected to be a consequence of the androgen-induced vasorelaxation which reduces systemic BP; hence the in vivo vasodepressor, hypotensive, and antihypertensive responses of androgens were also analyzed. This article reviews the current understanding of the physiological regulation of vascular smooth muscle contractility by androgens. Additionally, it summarizes older and more recent data on androgens, and some of the possible underlying mechanisms of relaxation, structural-functional differences in the androgen molecules, and their designing ability to induce vasorelaxation. The clinical relevance of these findings in terms of designing future therapeutics mainly the 5-reduced metabolite of testosterone, 5β-dihydrotestosterone, is also highlighted. Literature collected through a PubMed database search, as well as our experimental work, was used for the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Perusquía
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 Ciudad de México, México.
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Greco C, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Casarini L, Potì F, Brigante G, Simoni M. The "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" of Endothelial Dysfunction Markers in Human Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2584. [PMID: 33806677 PMCID: PMC7961823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and represents the first step in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The evaluation of endothelial health is fundamental in clinical practice and several direct and indirect markers have been suggested so far to identify any alterations in endothelial homeostasis. Alongside the known endothelial role on vascular health, several pieces of evidence have demonstrated that proper endothelial functioning plays a key role in human fertility and reproduction. Therefore, this state-of-the-art review updates the endothelial health markers discriminating between those available for clinical practice or for research purposes and their application in human fertility. Moreover, new molecules potentially helpful to clarify the link between endothelial and reproductive health are evaluated herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Carla Greco
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery-Unit of Neurosciences, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
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Isidoro-García L, Villalpando DM, Ferrer M. Vasomotor action of androgens in the mesenteric artery of hypertensive rats. Role of perivascular innervation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246254. [PMID: 33529222 PMCID: PMC7853503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens may exert cardiovascular protective actions by regulating the release and function of different vascular factors. In addition, testosterone (TES) and its 5-reduced metabolites, 5α- and 5β-dihydrotestosterone (5α- and 5β-DHT) induce vasorelaxant and hypotensive effects. Furthermore, hypertension has been reported to alter the release and function of the neurotransmitters nitric oxide (NO), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and noradrenaline (NA). Since the mesenteric arteries possess a dense perivascular innervation and significantly regulate total peripheral vascular resistance, the objective of this study was to analyze the effect of TES, 5α- and 5β-DHT on the neurogenic release and vasomotor function of NO, CGRP and NA. For this purpose, the superior mesenteric artery from male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats was used to analyze: (i) the effect of androgens (10 nM, incubated for 30 min) on the neurogenic release of NO, CGRP and NA and (ii) the vasoconstrictor-response to NA and the vasodilator responses to the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and exogenous CGRP. The results showed that TES, 5α- or 5β-DHT did not modify the release of NO, CGRP or NA induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS) in the arteries of SHR; however, in the arteries of WKY rats androgens only caused an increase in EFS-induced NO release. Moreover, TES, and especially 5β-DHT, increased the vasodilator response induced by SNP and CGRP in the arteries of SHR. These findings could be contributing to the hypotensive/antihypertensive efficacy of 5β-DHT previously described in conscious SHR and WKY rats, pointing to 5β- DHT as a potential drug for the treatment of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Isidoro-García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Diva M. Villalpando
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Ferrer
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
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Castelán F, Cuevas-Romero E, Martínez-Gómez M. The Expression of Hormone Receptors as a Gateway toward Understanding Endocrine Actions in Female Pelvic Floor Muscles. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2021; 20:305-320. [PMID: 32216732 DOI: 10.2174/1871530319666191009154751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide an overview of the hormone actions and receptors expressed in the female pelvic floor muscles, relevant for understanding the pelvic floor disorders. METHODS We performed a literature review focused on the expression of hormone receptors mainly in the pelvic floor muscles of women and female rats and rabbits. RESULTS The impairment of the pelvic floor muscles can lead to the onset of pelvic floor dysfunctions, including stress urinary incontinence in women. Hormone milieu is associated with the structure and function alterations of pelvic floor muscles, a notion supported by the fact that these muscles express different hormone receptors. Nuclear receptors, such as steroid receptors, are up till now the most investigated. The present review accounts for the limited studies conducted to elucidate the expression of hormone receptors in pelvic floor muscles in females. CONCLUSION Hormone receptor expression is the cornerstone in some hormone-based therapies, which require further detailed studies on the distribution of receptors in particular pelvic floor muscles, as well as their association with muscle effectors, involved in the alterations relevant for understanding pelvic floor disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Castelán
- Department of Cellular Biology and Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.,Tlaxcala Center for Behavioral Biology, Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Estela Cuevas-Romero
- Tlaxcala Center for Behavioral Biology, Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Margarita Martínez-Gómez
- Department of Cellular Biology and Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.,Tlaxcala Center for Behavioral Biology, Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico
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Khera M, Miner M, Jaffe J, Pastuszak AW. Testosterone Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk: A Critical Analysis of Studies Reporting Increased Risk. J Sex Med 2020; 18:83-98. [PMID: 33317996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of "adult-onset hypogonadism" (AOH) with exogenous testosterone therapy (TTh) to raise serum testosterone (T) levels may influence cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in patients with AOH, whereas low endogenous T levels are associated with an increased CV risk and mortality. AIM To critically evaluate studies reporting increased CV risk associated with TTh and to provide an overview of the risks and benefits of restoring T levels through exogenous TTh. METHODS A review of publications focusing on the association between TTh and increased CV risk was conducted, and the study methodologies and conclusions of each were critically evaluated. Further, recent clinical and epidemiological studies associating AOH or TTh with a change in CV risk, and pertinent hematologic and vascular effects noted in animal studies and in vitro, as well as in clinical practice were also reviewed. OUTCOMES A review of the literature shows that untreated testosterone deficiency and/or low T is associated with an increase in CV risk and adverse outcomes, with numerous studies and meta-analyses to support a positive association between exogenous TTh and an improvement in CV risk factors in men with AOH. RESULTS Numerous studies in the literature demonstrate the positive benefits of using TTh; however, since 2013, some publications have suggested a link to increased CV risk associated with TTh. A number of these studies retrospectively analyzed insurance claims databases using diagnosis codes, procedures codes, and prescription information. Many reviews published since have pointed out the methodological flaws and debatable conclusions of these studies. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS A careful assessment of the patient's current health status and CV risk factors should be weighed against the benefits and possible risks resulting from TTh, and consideration should be given to deferring treatment pending resolution or stabilization of CV disease or risk factors. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS In this review, we provide an in-depth analysis of studies reporting increased CV risk with TTh. Many of the studies were not well-designed, randomized, double-blind, prospective clinical trials but rather post hoc analyses of cohort data. These studies may reflect bias in how treatment and nontreatment decisions are made or reflect conclusions based on widely cited methodological flaws. CONCLUSION Appropriate patient selection supported by low pre-treatment T levels and monitoring T levels during treatment with the goal of achieving and maintaining physiologic levels all contribute to the safe and effective use of TTh in men with AOH. Khera M, Miner M, Jaffe J, et al. Testosterone Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk: A Critical Analysis of Studies Reporting Increased Risk. J Sex med 2021;18:83-98.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Khera
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Martin Miner
- Clinical Professor of Family Medicine and Urology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Villalpando DM, Verdasco-Martín CM, Plaza I, Gómez-Rivas J, R de Bethencourt F, Villarroel M, García JL, Otero C, Ferrer M. Beneficial Effects of Spirulina Aqueous Extract on Vasodilator Function of Arteries from Hypertensive Rats. Int J Vasc Med 2020; 2020:6657077. [PMID: 33457015 PMCID: PMC7787865 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6657077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is a multifactorial disorder considered one of the major causes of premature death worldwide. This pathology is associated with vascular functional/structural alterations in which nitric oxide (NO) and oxygen reactive species participate. On the other hand, the use of microalgae extracts in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases is increasing. Based on the antioxidant and antihypertensive properties of Spirulina, this study aims to investigate the effect of an aqueous extract of Spirulina on the vasodilator function of the aorta from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), analyzing the functional role of NO. For this, aortic segments from male SHR were divided into two groups, one control and the other exposed to an Spirulina aqueous extract (0.1% w/v, for 3 hours), to analyze (i) the production of NO, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide; (ii) the vasodilator response induced by acetylcholine (ACh), by the NO donor and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and by the KATP channel opener and pinacidil; and (iii) the expression of the p-Akt, p-eNOS, and HO-1 proteins. The results showed that the aqueous Spirulina extract (i) increased the production of NO, did not significantly modify that of superoxide, while decreased that of hydrogen peroxide; (ii) increased the vasodilatory responses induced by ACh, NPS, and pinacidil; and (iii) increased the expression of p-Akt and HO-1. These results suggest that incubation with the aqueous Spirulina extract improves the vascular function of arteries from SHR by increasing the release/bioavailability/function of NO. Increased KATP channel activation and expression of pAkt and HO-1 appear to be participating in these actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diva M. Villalpando
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos M. Verdasco-Martín
- Departamento de Biocatálisis, Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Plaza
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Gómez-Rivas
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fermín R de Bethencourt
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Morris Villarroel
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José L. García
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Biotecnología Medioambiental, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Otero
- Departamento de Biocatálisis, Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Ferrer
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
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11
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Lorigo M, Mariana M, Lemos MC, Cairrao E. Vascular mechanisms of testosterone: The non-genomic point of view. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 196:105496. [PMID: 31655180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone (T) is the predominant endogenous androgen in the bloodstream. At the vascular level, T presents genomic and non-genomic effects, and both effects may overlap. The genomic actions assume that androgens can freely cross the plasma membrane of target cells and bind to nuclear androgen receptors, inducing gene transcription and protein synthesis. The non-genomic effects have a more rapid onset and may be related to the interaction with protein/receptor/ion channels of the plasma membrane. The key T effect at the vascular level is vasorelaxation, which is primarily due to its rapid effect. Thus, the main purpose of this review is to discuss the T non-genomic effects at the vascular level and the molecular pathways involved in its vasodilator effect observed in in vivo and in vitro studies. In this sense, the nuclear receptor activation, the influence of vascular endothelium and the activation or inhibition of ion channels (potassium and calcium channels, respectively) will be reviewed regarding all the data that corroborated or not. Moreover, this review also provides a brief update on the association of T with the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, namely metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, atherosclerosis, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension. In summary, in this paper we consider the non-genomic vascular mode of action of androgen in physiological conditions and the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Lorigo
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Melissa Mariana
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Manuel C Lemos
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Elisa Cairrao
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
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Carbajal-García A, Reyes-García J, Montaño LM. Androgen Effects on the Adrenergic System of the Vascular, Airway, and Cardiac Myocytes and Their Relevance in Pathological Processes. Int J Endocrinol 2020; 2020:8849641. [PMID: 33273918 PMCID: PMC7676939 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8849641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Androgen signaling comprises nongenomic and genomic pathways. Nongenomic actions are not related to the binding of the androgen receptor (AR) and occur rapidly. The genomic effects implicate the binding to a cytosolic AR, leading to protein synthesis. Both events are independent of each other. Genomic effects have been associated with different pathologies such as vascular ischemia, hypertension, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. Catecholamines play a crucial role in regulating vascular smooth muscle (VSM), airway smooth muscle (ASM), and cardiac muscle (CM) function and tone. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is an updated analysis of the role of androgens in the adrenergic system of vascular, airway, and cardiac myocytes. Body. Testosterone (T) favors vasoconstriction, and its concentration fluctuation during life stages can affect the vascular tone and might contribute to the development of hypertension. In the VSM, T increases α1-adrenergic receptors (α 1-ARs) and decreases adenylyl cyclase expression, favoring high blood pressure and hypertension. Androgens have also been associated with asthma. During puberty, girls are more susceptible to present asthma symptoms than boys because of the increment in the plasmatic concentrations of T in young men. In the ASM, β 2-ARs are responsible for the bronchodilator effect, and T augments the expression of β 2-ARs evoking an increase in the relaxing response to salbutamol. The levels of T are also associated with an increment in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. In the CM, activation of α 1A-ARs and β 2-ARs increases the ionotropic activity, leading to the development of contraction, and T upregulates the expression of both receptors and improves the myocardial performance. CONCLUSIONS Androgens play an essential role in the adrenergic system of vascular, airway, and cardiac myocytes, favoring either a state of health or disease. While the use of androgens as a therapeutic tool for treating asthma symptoms or heart disease is proposed, the vascular system is warmly affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abril Carbajal-García
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Jorge Reyes-García
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Luis M. Montaño
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
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Lorigo M, Mariana M, Oliveira N, Lemos MC, Cairrao E. Vascular Pathways of Testosterone: Clinical Implications. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2019; 13:55-72. [DOI: 10.1007/s12265-019-09939-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Van den Broeck T, Soebadi MA, Falter A, Raets L, Duponselle J, Lootsma J, Heintz A, Philtjens U, Hofkens L, Gonzalez-Viedma A, Driesen K, Sandner P, Albersen M, Brône B, Van Renterghem K. Testosterone Induces Relaxation of Human Corpus Cavernosum Tissue of Patients With Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med 2019; 8:114-119. [PMID: 31767508 PMCID: PMC7042167 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Previous research in the field of cardiovascular diseases suggests a relaxing effect of testosterone (T) on smooth muscle cells. Therefore, it was hypothesized that T could play a significant role in erection development. Aim To investigate the relaxing effect of T and other molecules of the T signaling pathway on human corpus cavernosum (HCC) tissue. Methods Samples of the HCC tissue were obtained from men who underwent penile prosthesis implantation (n = 33) for erectile dysfunction. Samples were used for isometric tension measurement in Ex Vivo experiments. Following standardized precontraction with phenylephrine, increasing doses of T or dihydrotestosterone were administered and blocked by NO/H2S synthesis inhibitors, a KATP blocker, and flutamide (androgen receptor inhibitor). Main Outcome Measure The outcome was relaxation of the HCC tissue, normalized to a maximum precontraction achieved by phenylephrine. Results A dose-dependent relaxing effect of dihydrotestosterone and T was observed with a relaxation of, respectively, 24.9% ± 23.4% (P < .0001) and 41.7% ± 19.1% (P = .01) compared with 6.8% ± 15.9% for vehicle (dimethylsulfoxide) at 300 μM. The relaxing effect of T was not countered by blocking NO synthesis, H2S synthesis, KATP channels, or the androgen receptor. Clinical Implications By understanding the underlying mechanisms of T-induced HCC relaxation, potential new therapeutic targets can be identified. Strengths & Limitations The strength of the study is the use of fresh HCC tissues with reproducible results. The limitation is the need for supraphysiological T levels to induce the observed effect. Conclusion Rapid androgen-induced relaxation of HCC is likely to occur via nongenomic mechanisms. Previously suggested mechanisms of action by which T modulates HCC relaxation have been excluded. Van den Broeck T, Soebadi MA, Falter A, et al. Testosterone Induces Relaxation of Human Corpus Cavernosum Tissue of Patients With Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2019; 8:114–119.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Ayodhia Soebadi
- Jessa ziekenhuis, Hasselt, Belgium; University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Urology, Dr Soetomo Academic Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Wuppertal, Germany; Department of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maarten Albersen
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Experimental Urology, Leuven University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bert Brône
- UHasselt, Hasselt, Belgium; BIOMED Research Institute, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Koenraad Van Renterghem
- Jessa ziekenhuis, Hasselt, Belgium; University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; UHasselt, Hasselt, Belgium.
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