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Tang S, Xiao Z, Lin F, Liang X, Ma X, Wu J, Zhou X, Zhao Q, Gao J, Xiao Q, Ding D. Joint effect of testosterone and neurofilament light chain on cognitive decline in men: The Shanghai Aging Study. Alzheimers Dement 2024. [PMID: 38837321 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The association of testosterone and cognitive decline is inconclusive, and its joint effect with neurofilaments light chain (NfL) remains largely unknown. METHODS A total of 581 non-demented older men in the Shanghai Aging Study were included. Blood total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and NfL were measured at baseline. The relationships between TT, FT, TT/FT-NfL, and cognitive decline were explored by Cox regression models. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 6.7 years, there was an inverse association between TT/FT and cognitive decline (TT, trend p = .004, Q1 vs Q4, hazard ratio [HR] = 4.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.60 to 12.04; FT, trend p = .002, Q1 vs Q4, HR = 5.29, 95% CI = 1.50 to 16.89). Compared to participants with high TT/FT-low NfL, those with low TT/FT-high NfL had significantly higher risks of cognitive decline (TT, HR = 5.10, 95% CI = 1.11 to 23.40; FT, HR = 6.14, 95% CI = 1.34 to 28.06). DISCUSSION Our findings suggest that the combination of testosterone and neurodegenerative markers may provide reliable predictive insights into future cognitive decline. HIGHLIGHTS Testosterone is inversely associated with cognitive decline in older men. There is a joint effect of testosterone and NfL on cognitive decline. Sex hormone and neurodegeneration may synergistically contribute to cognitive deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuning Tang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenxu Xiao
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangting Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoniu Liang
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxi Ma
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhou
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianhua Zhao
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junling Gao
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianyi Xiao
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ding Ding
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Ma BQ, Jia JX, Wang H, Li SJ, Yang ZJ, Wang XX, Yan XS. Cannabidiol improves the cognitive function of SAMP8 AD model mice involving the microbiota-gut-brain axis. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2024; 87:471-479. [PMID: 38590254 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2024.2338914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a natural component extracted from Cannabis sativa L. exerts neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in Alzheimer's disease (AD), a disease characterized by impaired cognition and accumulation of amyloid-B peptides (Aβ). Interactions between the gut and central nervous system (microbiota-gut-brain axis) play a critical role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorder AD. At present investigations into the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective action of CBD in AD are not conclusive. The aim of this study was thus to examine the influence of CBD on cognition and involvement of the microbiota-gut-brain axis using a senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. Data demonstrated that administration of CBD to SAMP8 mice improved cognitive function as evidenced from the Morris water maze test and increased hippocampal activated microglia shift from M1 to M2. In addition, CBD elevated levels of Bacteriodetes associated with a fall in Firmicutes providing morphologically a protective intestinal barrier which subsequently reduced leakage of intestinal toxic metabolites. Further, CBD was found to reduce the levels of hippocampal and colon epithelial cells lipopolysaccharide (LPS), known to be increased in AD leading to impaired gastrointestinal motility, thereby promoting neuroinflammation and subsequent neuronal death. Our findings demonstrated that CBD may be considered a beneficial therapeutic drug to counteract AD-mediated cognitive impairment and restore gut microbial functions associated with the observed neuroprotective mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Qian Ma
- Basic Medical and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- Basic Medical and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - He Wang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Si-Jia Li
- Teaching and Research Department of Golden Chamber, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- Basic Medical and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Chifeng University, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xin-Xin Wang
- Basic Medical and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
- Teaching and Research Department of Golden Chamber, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Liaoning, China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- Basic Medical and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia, China
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Wang L, Jia JX, Zhang SB, Song W, Yan XS, Huo DS, Wang H, Wu LE, Yang ZJ. The protective effect and mechanism of glycosides of cistanche deserticola on rats in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2024; 87:448-456. [PMID: 38557302 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2024.2337365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) occurs frequently clinically as a complication following cardiovascular resuscitation resulting in neuronal damage specifically to the hippocampal CA1 region with consequent cognitive impairment. Apoptosis and oxidative stress were proposed as major risk factors associated with CIRI development. Previously, glycosides obtained from Cistanche deserticola (CGs) were shown to play a key role in counteracting CIRI; however, the underlying mechanisms remain to be determined. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of CGs on subsequent CIRI in rats. The model of CIRI was established for 2 hr and reperfusion for 24 hr by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. The MCAO rats were used to measure the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of CGs on CIRI. Neurological function was evaluated by the Longa neurological function score test. 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining was used to detect the area of cerebral infarction. Nissl staining was employed to observe neuronal morphology. TUNEL staining was used to detect neuronal apoptosis, while Western blot determined protein expression levels of factors for apoptosis-related and PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway. Data demonstrated that CGs treatment improved behavioral performance, brain injury, and enhanced antioxidant and anti-apoptosis in CIRI rats. In addition, CGs induced activation of PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway accompanied by inhibition of the expression of apoptosis-related factors. Evidence indicates that CGs amelioration of CIRI involves activation of the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway associated with increased cellular viability suggesting these glycosides may be considered as an alternative compound for CIRI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Baotou, China
| | - Shi-Bin Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Baotou, China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Baotou, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Baotou, China
| | - He Wang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Li-E Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Education Department of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Baotou, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Chifeng University, Chifeng, China
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Xu Q, Shen H, Zhu Y, Zhang J, Shen Z, Jiang J, Zhou J. Causal effects of genetically predicted testosterone on Alzheimer's disease: a two-sample mendelian randomization study. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:591-601. [PMID: 38007406 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although several studies have reported that testosterone may protect against Alzheimer's disease, no evidence of a causal relationship has been demonstrated. METHODS A Mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed to determine the causal role of testosterone in Alzheimer's disease. The study utilized public databases obtained from separately published genome-wide associationstudies (GWAS). Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for testosterone were extracted from the most recent and largest published GWAS meta-analysis (178,782 participants), and SNPs for Alzheimer's disease were extracted from UK Biobank (954 AD cases and 487,331 controls). The odds ratio (OR) of the inverse variance weighting (IVW) approach was the primary outcome, and the weighted median and MR Egger regression were used for sensitivity analysis. RESULTS Through IVW, we observed a causal association between genetically predicted testosterone and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, with an OR of 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.998-0.999, p = 0.047). In the sensitivity analyses, the weighted median regression showed directionally similar estimates (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.998-0.999, p = 0.048). The MR Egger regression showed similar estimates (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.998-1.00, p = 0.35), but with lower precision. Funnel plots, MR Egger intercepts, and Mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO) analysis indicated the absence of directional pleiotropy effects. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our MR study provides evidence of a causal relationship between testosterone levels and Alzheimer's disease; however, this relationship must be validated in future studies with larger sample sizes. Early testosterone monitoring may enable the prevention of Alzheimer's and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Xu
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Yifan Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Junlei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Zhongmei Shen
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Jianming Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Wujiang District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Suzhou Wujiang District Second People's Hospital), Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, China.
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Tang S, Huang L, Lin F, Chen X, Wang Y, Xu J, Wang Y, Gao J, Xiao Q. Sex steroid and cognitive function among community-dwelling older men with or without vascular risk factors: a cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:147. [PMID: 38350861 PMCID: PMC10865607 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04727-6] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship of testosterone and estradiol concentrations with cognitive function among community-dwelling older men was inconclusive. To examine the association of serum testosterone and estradiol concentrations with cognitive function in older men with or without vascular risk factors (VRFs). METHODS This cross-sectional study consisted of 224 community-dwelling men aged 65-90 years in the Songjiang District of Shanghai, China. Serum testosterone and estradiol were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. The following five factors were defined as VRFs in this study: obesity, history of hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and coronary heart disease. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine the association of testosterone and estradiol with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in participants with or without VRF. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression was performed to account for the nonlinearity of these associations. RESULTS An inverted "U" shaped non-linear relationship was found between testosterone concentration and MMSE score in men with one VRF (P overall =.003, non-linear P =.002). Estradiol showed an inverted "U" shaped non-linear relationship with MMSE score independent of VRFs (men without VRF, P overall =.049, non-linear P =.015; men with one VRF, overall P =.007, non-linear P =.003; men with two or more VRFs, overall P =.009, non-linear P =.005). CONCLUSION In older men, an optimal level of sex steroid concentration may be beneficial to cognitive function and the VRFs should be considered when interpreting the relationship between sex steroid and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuning Tang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Limei Huang
- Songjiang Center of Disease Prevention and Control, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangting Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuqin Chen
- Songjiang Center of Disease Prevention and Control, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunhui Wang
- Songjiang District Xinqiao Town Community Health Service Center, 201600, Shanghai, China
| | - Jixiang Xu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Junling Gao
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qianyi Xiao
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
- Health Communication Institute, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
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Calvo N, Einstein G. Steroid hormones: risk and resilience in women's Alzheimer disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1159435. [PMID: 37396653 PMCID: PMC10313425 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1159435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
More women have Alzheimer disease (AD) than men, but the reasons for this phenomenon are still unknown. Including women in clinical research and studying their biology is key to understand not just their increased risk but also their resilience against the disease. In this sense, women are more affected by AD than men, but their reserve or resilience mechanisms might delay symptom onset. The aim of this review was to explore what is known about mechanisms underlying women's risk and resilience in AD and identify emerging themes in this area that merit further research. We conducted a review of studies analyzing molecular mechanisms that may induce neuroplasticity in women, as well as cognitive and brain reserve. We also analyzed how the loss of steroid hormones in aging may be linked to AD. We included empirical studies with human and animal models, literature reviews as well as meta-analyses. Our search identified the importance of 17-b-estradiol (E2) as a mechanism driving cognitive and brain reserve in women. More broadly, our analysis revealed the following emerging perspectives: (1) the importance of steroid hormones and their effects on both neurons and glia for the study of risk and resilience in AD, (2) E2's crucial role in women's brain reserve, (3) women's verbal memory advantage as a cognitive reserve factor, and (4) E2's potential role in linguistic experiences such as multilingualism and hearing loss. Future directions for research include analyzing the reserve mechanisms of steroid hormones on neuronal and glial plasticity, as well as identifying the links between steroid hormone loss in aging and risk for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Calvo
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Einstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tema Genus, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Giannos P, Prokopidis K, Church DD, Kirk B, Morgan PT, Lochlainn MN, Macpherson H, Woods DR, Ispoglou T. Associations of Bioavailable Serum Testosterone With Cognitive Function in Older Men: Results From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2023; 78:151-157. [PMID: 35927217 PMCID: PMC9879757 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glac162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-associated cognitive decline may be influenced by testosterone status. However, studies evaluating the impact of bioavailable testosterone, the active, free testosterone, on cognitive function are scarce. Our study determined the relationship between calculated bioavailable testosterone and cognitive performance in older men. METHODS We used data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2013 and 2014. This study consisted of 208 men aged ≥60 years. Bioavailable serum testosterone was calculated based on the total serum testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, and albumin levels, whereas cognitive performance was assessed through the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) Word List Learning Test (WLLT), Word List Recall Test (WLRT), and Intrusion Word Count Test (WLLT-IC and WLRT-IC), the Animal Fluency Test (AFT), and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed upon adjustment for age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education level, medical history, body mass index, energy, alcohol intake, physical activity levels, and sleep duration. RESULTS A significant positive association between bioavailable testosterone and DSST (β: 0.049, p = .002) score was detected, with no signs of a plateau effect. No significant associations with CERAD WLLT (p = .132), WLRT (p = .643), WLLT-IC (p = .979), and WLRT-IC (p = .387), and AFT (p = .057) were observed. CONCLUSION Calculated bioavailable testosterone presented a significant positive association with processing speed, sustained attention, and working memory in older men above 60 years of age. Further research is warranted to elucidate the impact of the inevitable age-related decline in testosterone on cognitive function in older men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Giannos
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Society of Meta-research and Biomedical Innovation, London, UK
| | - Konstantinos Prokopidis
- Society of Meta-research and Biomedical Innovation, London, UK.,Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - David D Church
- Department of Geriatrics, Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging, Center for Translational Research in Aging and Longevity, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Ben Kirk
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), University of Melbourne and Western Health, St. Albans, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul T Morgan
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Mary Ni Lochlainn
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Macpherson
- Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - David R Woods
- Defence Medical Services, Lichfield, UK.,Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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Cunliffe G, Lim YT, Chae W, Jung S. Alternative Pharmacological Strategies for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Neuromodulator Function. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123064. [PMID: 36551821 PMCID: PMC9776382 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, comprising 70% of dementia diagnoses worldwide and affecting 1 in 9 people over the age of 65. However, the majority of its treatments, which predominantly target the cholinergic system, remain insufficient at reversing pathology and act simply to slow the inevitable progression of the disease. The most recent neurotransmitter-targeting drug for AD was approved in 2003, strongly suggesting that targeting neurotransmitter systems alone is unlikely to be sufficient, and that research into alternate treatment avenues is urgently required. Neuromodulators are substances released by neurons which influence neurotransmitter release and signal transmission across synapses. Neuromodulators including neuropeptides, hormones, neurotrophins, ATP and metal ions display altered function in AD, which underlies aberrant neuronal activity and pathology. However, research into how the manipulation of neuromodulators may be useful in the treatment of AD is relatively understudied. Combining neuromodulator targeting with more novel methods of drug delivery, such as the use of multi-targeted directed ligands, combinatorial drugs and encapsulated nanoparticle delivery systems, may help to overcome limitations of conventional treatments. These include difficulty crossing the blood-brain-barrier and the exertion of effects on a single target only. This review aims to highlight the ways in which neuromodulator functions are altered in AD and investigate how future therapies targeting such substances, which act upstream to classical neurotransmitter systems, may be of potential therapeutic benefit in the sustained search for more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Cunliffe
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138667, Singapore
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Yi Tang Lim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138667, Singapore
- Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117546, Singapore
| | - Woori Chae
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138667, Singapore
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-daero, Seongnam-si 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangyong Jung
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138667, Singapore
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
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Bowman R, Frankfurt M, Luine V. Sex differences in cognition following variations in endocrine status. Learn Mem 2022; 29:234-245. [PMID: 36206395 PMCID: PMC9488023 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053509.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Spatial memory, mediated primarily by the hippocampus, is responsible for orientation in space and retrieval of information regarding location of objects and places in an animal's environment. Since the hippocampus is dense with steroid hormone receptors and is capable of robust neuroplasticity, it is not surprising that changes in spatial memory performance occur following a variety of endocrine alterations. Here, we review cognitive changes in both spatial and nonspatial memory tasks following manipulations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and gonadal axes and after exposure to endocrine disruptors in rodents. Chronic stress impairs male performance on numerous behavioral cognitive tasks and enhances or does not impact female cognitive function. Sex-dependent changes in cognition following stress are influenced by both organizational and activational effects of estrogen and vary depending on the developmental age of the stress exposure, but responses to gonadal hormones in adulthood are more similar than different in the sexes. Also discussed are possible underlying neural mechanisms for these steroid hormone-dependent, cognitive effects. Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, given at low levels during adolescent development, impairs spatial memory in adolescent male and female rats and object recognition memory in adulthood. BPA's negative effects on memory may be mediated through alterations in dendritic spine density in areas that mediate these cognitive tasks. In summary, this review discusses the evidence that endocrine status of an animal (presence or absence of stress hormones, gonadal hormones, or endocrine disruptors) impacts cognitive function and, at times, in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Bowman
- Department of Psychology, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut 06825, USA
| | - Maya Frankfurt
- Department of Psychology, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut 06825, USA
- Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York 11549, USA
| | - Victoria Luine
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of City University of New York, New York, New York 10065, USA
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Saleki K, Banazadeh M, Saghazadeh A, Rezaei N. Aging, testosterone, and neuroplasticity: friend or foe? Rev Neurosci 2022; 34:247-273. [PMID: 36017670 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuroplasticity or neural plasticity implicates the adaptive potential of the brain in response to extrinsic and intrinsic stimuli. The concept has been utilized in different contexts such as injury and neurological disease. Neuroplasticity mechanisms have been classified into neuroregenerative and function-restoring processes. In the context of injury, neuroplasticity has been defined in three post-injury epochs. Testosterone plays a key yet double-edged role in the regulation of several neuroplasticity alterations. Research has shown that testosterone levels are affected by numerous factors such as age, stress, surgical procedures on gonads, and pharmacological treatments. There is an ongoing debate for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in aging men; however, TRT is more useful in young individuals with testosterone deficit and more specific subgroups with cognitive dysfunction. Therefore, it is important to pay early attention to testosterone profile and precisely uncover its harms and benefits. In the present review, we discuss the influence of environmental factors, aging, and gender on testosterone-associated alterations in neuroplasticity, as well as the two-sided actions of testosterone in the nervous system. Finally, we provide practical insights for further study of pharmacological treatments for hormonal disorders focusing on restoring neuroplasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiarash Saleki
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, 47176 47745 Babol, Iran.,USERN Office, Babol University of Medical Sciences, 47176 47745 Babol, Iran.,Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Banazadeh
- Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, 76169 13555 Kerman, Iran
| | - Amene Saghazadeh
- Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14176 13151 Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran
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11
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Mi S, Chen H, Lin P, Kang P, Qiao D, Zhang B, Wang Z, Zhang J, Hu X, Wang C, Cui H, Li S. CaMKII is a modulator in neurodegenerative diseases and mediates the effect of androgen on synaptic protein PSD95. Front Genet 2022; 13:959360. [PMID: 35991539 PMCID: PMC9386121 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.959360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens rapidly regulate synaptic plasticity in hippocampal neurones, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we carried out a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of functional similarities between androgen receptor (AR) and the synaptic protein postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) to evaluate the effect. Using different measurements and thresholds, we obtained consistent results illustrating that the two proteins were significantly involved in similar pathways. We further identified CaMKII plays a critical role in mediating the rapid effect of androgen and promoting the expression of PSD95. We used mouse hippocampal neurone HT22 cells as a cell model to investigate the effect of testosterone (T) on intracellular Ca2+ levels and the mechanism. Calcium imaging experiments showed that intracellular Ca2+ increased to a peak due to calcium influx in the extracellular fluid through L-type and N-type voltage-gated calcium channels when HT22 cells were treated with 100 nM T for 20 min. Subsequently, we investigated whether the Ca2+/CaMKII signaling pathway mediates the rapid effect of T, promoting the expression of the synaptic protein PSD95. Immunofluorescence cytochemical staining and western blotting results showed that T promoted CaMKII phosphorylation by rapidly increasing extracellular Ca2+ influx, thus increasing PSD95 expression. This study demonstrated that CaMKII acts as a mediator assisting androgen which regulates the synaptic protein PSD95Also, it provides evidence for the neuroprotective mechanisms of androgens in synaptic plasticity and reveals the gated and pharmacological mechanisms of the voltage-gated Ca2+ channel family for androgen replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixiong Mi
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease Mechanism, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Peijing Lin
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peiyuan Kang
- Clinical Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Dan Qiao
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bohan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jingbao Zhang
- Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiangting Hu
- Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chang Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease Mechanism, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Huixian Cui
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease Mechanism, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Li, ; Huixian Cui,
| | - Sha Li
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease Mechanism, Shijiazhuang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Li, ; Huixian Cui,
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12
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Кузнецов КО, Хайдарова РР, Хабибуллина РХ, Стыценко ЕС, Философова ВИ, Нуриахметова ИР, Хисамеева ЭМ, Важоров ГС, Хайбуллин ФР, Иванова ЕА, Горбатова КВ. [Testosterone and Alzheimer's disease]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2022; 68:97-107. [PMID: 36337024 PMCID: PMC9762454 DOI: 10.14341/probl13136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia in half of the cases. Asthma is usually found in people over 65 years of age. The etiopathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and includes genetic factors, nutritional disorders, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and aging. Sex hormones have an important influence on the development of AD, as evidenced by a higher incidence in women than in men. Considering the significant influence of T on the maintenance of normal brain function, the present study is aimed at evaluating the impact of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), as well as testosterone therapy, on the risk of AD development and progression. Although there is some clinical inconsistency between studies, androgens have a significant effect on brain function and are beneficial for AD patients. Low levels of circulating androgens should be considered as a significant risk factor for the development of AD and memory loss. With a reduced level of T in the plasma of men, its administration improves cognitive performance and memory, treatment should be started at an early stage of the disease. In men and women with AD, androgens improve mental state and slow the progression of the disease, providing a protective effect. In the future, it is necessary to conduct studies on a large population, taking into account personality factors and a more specific approach to assessing cognitive functions and the causal relationship of T administration in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- К. О. Кузнецов
- Российский национальный исследовательский медицинский университет им. Н.И. Пирогова
| | | | - Р. Х. Хабибуллина
- Первый Санкт-Петербургский государственный медицинский университет им. акад. И.П. Павлова
| | - Е. С. Стыценко
- Санкт-Петербургский государственный педиатрический медицинский университет
| | - В. И. Философова
- Первый Санкт-Петербургский государственный медицинский университет им. акад. И.П. Павлова
| | | | | | - Г. С. Важоров
- Чувашский государственный университет им. И.Н. Ульянова
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13
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Knatauskaitė J, Akko DP, Pukėnas K, Trinkūnienė L, Budde H. Effect of acute game-based exercises on steroid hormones and cognitive performance in adolescents. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2022; 226:103584. [PMID: 35395557 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2022.103584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE While exercise was found to affect cognitive performance in adolescents, the underlying mechanisms need to be considered. This study compared the effect of a 20 min game-based exercise with different intensities on hormonal responses and potential links to cognitive performance. METHODS 37 adolescents (24 girls and 13 boys; 15-16 years of age) were randomly assigned into light intensity (LIG; 58.64% HRmax), vigorous intensity (VIG; 89.51% HRmax), and control group (CON). The concentration of salivary Testosterone and Cortisol was measured before, immediately after, 20 min and 60 min after the intervention. RESULTS Repeated-measure ANOVA revealed that neither light nor vigorous game-based exercise acutely affects Testosterone, while Cortisol was higher in the VIG, 20 min after the intervention compared to the LIG and CON. Furthermore, changes in Testosterone were negatively associated with changes in cognitive performance after the acute vigorous intensity exercise (r = -0.63, p = .039) and control condition (r = -0.78, p = .003), but positively associated with post-intervention cognitive performance after the acute light intensity exercise (r = 0.67, p = .012). CONCLUSION The intensity of game-based exercise affected Cortisol concentration in adolescents, while Testosterone concentration did not change after the intervention. On the other hand, exercise intensity plays an important role in the association between Testosterone concentration and cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justė Knatauskaitė
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas 44221, Lithuania.
| | - Davin P Akko
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Hagen, Hagen 58097, Germany.
| | - Kazimieras Pukėnas
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas 44221, Lithuania.
| | - Laima Trinkūnienė
- Department of Physical and Social Education, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas 44221, Lithuania.
| | - Henning Budde
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas 44221, Lithuania; Institute for Systems Medicine, Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg 20457, Germany.
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14
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Strogulski NR, Kopczynski A, de Oliveira VG, Carteri RB, Hansel G, Venturin GT, Greggio S, DaCosta JC, De Bastiani MA, Rodolphi MS, Portela LV. Nandrolone Supplementation Promotes AMPK Activation and Divergent 18[FDG] PET Brain Connectivity in Adult and Aged Mice. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:2032-2042. [PMID: 35415802 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03592-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Decreased anabolic androgen levels are followed by impaired brain energy support and sensing with loss of neural connectivity during physiological aging, providing a neurobiological basis for hormone supplementation. Here, we investigated whether nandrolone decanoate (ND) administration mediates hypothalamic AMPK activation and glucose metabolism, thus affecting metabolic connectivity in brain areas of adult and aged mice. Metabolic interconnected brain areas of rodents can be detected by positron emission tomography using 18FDG-mPET. Albino CF1 mice at 3 and 18 months of age were separated into 4 groups that received daily subcutaneous injections of either ND (15 mg/kg) or vehicle for 15 days. At the in vivo baseline and on the 14th day, brain 18FDG-microPET scans were performed. Hypothalamic pAMPKT172/AMPK protein levels were assessed, and basal mitochondrial respiratory states were evaluated in synaptosomes. A metabolic connectivity network between brain areas was estimated based on 18FDG uptake. We found that ND increased the pAMPKT172/AMPK ratio in both adult and aged mice but increased 18FDG uptake and mitochondrial basal respiration only in adult mice. Furthermore, ND triggered rearrangement in the metabolic connectivity of adult mice and aged mice compared to age-matched controls. Altogether, our findings suggest that ND promotes hypothalamic AMPK activation, and distinct glucose metabolism and metabolic connectivity rearrangements in the brains of adult and aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Strogulski
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - A Kopczynski
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - V G de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - R B Carteri
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - G Hansel
- Neuroinflammation and Neuroimmunology Laboratory, Brain Institute of Rio Grande Do Sul, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - G T Venturin
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande Do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - S Greggio
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande Do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - J C DaCosta
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande Do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - M A De Bastiani
- Zimmer Neuroimaging Lab, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - M S Rodolphi
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - L V Portela
- Laboratory of Neurotrauma and Biomarkers, Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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15
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Muthu SJ, Lakshmanan G, Seppan P. Influence of Testosterone depletion on Neurotrophin-4 in Hippocampal synaptic plasticity and its effects on learning and memory. Dev Neurosci 2022; 44:102-112. [PMID: 35086088 DOI: 10.1159/000522201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex steroids are neuromodulators that play a crucial role in learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity, providing circuit flexibility and dynamic functional connectivity in mammals. Previous studies indicate that testosterone is crucial for neuronal functions and required further investigation on various frontiers. However, it is surprising to note that studies on testosterone-induced NT-4 expression and its influence on synaptic plasticity and learning and memory moderation are scanty. The present study is focused on analyzing the localized influence of neurotrophin-4 (NT4) on hippocampal synaptic plasticity and associated moderation in learning and memory under testosterone deprivation. Adult Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into various groups, control (Cont), orchidectomy (ORX), orchidectomy + testosterone supplementation (ORX+T) and control + testosterone (Cont+T). After two weeks, the serum testosterone level was undetectable in ORX rats. The behavioural assessment showed a decline in the learning ability of ORX rats with increased working and reference memory errors in the behavioural assessment in the 8-arm radial maze. The mRNA and protein expressions of NT-4 and androgen receptors were significantly reduced in the ORX group. In addition, there was a decrease in the number of neuronal dendrites in Golgi-Cox staining. These changes were not seen in ORX+T rats with improved learning behaviour. Indicating that testosterone exerts its protective effect on hippocampal synaptic plasticity through androgen receptor-dependent neurotrophin-4 regulation in learning and memory upgrade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakthi Jothi Muthu
- Department of Anatomy, Dr. Arcot Lakshmanasamy Mudaliar Postgraduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Ganesh Lakshmanan
- Department of Anatomy, Dr. Arcot Lakshmanasamy Mudaliar Postgraduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Prakash Seppan
- Department of Anatomy, Dr. Arcot Lakshmanasamy Mudaliar Postgraduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Chennai, India
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16
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Bianchi VE. Impact of Testosterone on Alzheimer's Disease. World J Mens Health 2022; 40:243-256. [PMID: 35021306 PMCID: PMC8987133 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease responsible for almost half of all dementia cases in the world and progressively increasing. The etiopathology includes heritability, genetic factors, aging, nutrition, but sex hormones play a relevant role. Animal models demonstrated that testosterone (T) exerted a neuroprotective effect reducing the production of amyloid-beta (Aβ), improving synaptic signaling, and counteracting neuronal death. This study aims to evaluate the impact of T deprivation and T administration in humans on the onset of dementia and AD. A search was conducted on MEDLINE and Scopus for the “androgen deprivation therapy” and “testosterone therapy” with “dementia” and “Alzheimer’s.” Studies lasting twenty years with low risk of bias, randomized clinical trial, and case-controlled studies were considered. Twelve articles on the effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and AD and seventeen on T therapy and AD were retrieved. Men with prostate cancer under ADT showed a higher incidence of dementia and AD. The effect of T administration in hypogonadal men with AD and cognitive impairment has evidenced some positive results. The majority of studies showed the T administration improved memory and cognition in AD while others did not find any benefit. Although some biases in the studies are evident, T therapy for AD patients may represent an essential clinical therapy to reduce dementia incidence and AD progression. However, more specific case-controlled trials on the effect of androgens therapy in men and women to reducing the onset of AD are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Emanuele Bianchi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Clinical Research Center Stella Maris, Falciano, San Marino, Italy.
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17
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Kuwahara N, Nicholson K, Isaacs L, MacLusky NJ. Androgen Effects on Neural Plasticity. ANDROGENS: CLINICAL RESEARCH AND THERAPEUTICS 2021; 2:216-230. [PMID: 35024693 PMCID: PMC8744448 DOI: 10.1089/andro.2021.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are synthesized in the brain, gonads, and adrenal glands, in both sexes, exerting physiologically important effects on the structure and function of the central nervous system. These effects may contribute to the incidence and progression of neurological disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease, which occur at different rates in males and females. This review briefly summarizes the current state of knowledge with respect to the neuroplastic effects of androgens, with particular emphasis on the hippocampus, which has been the focus of much of the research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nariko Kuwahara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kate Nicholson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Lauren Isaacs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Neil J. MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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18
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Dong X, Jiang H, Li S, Zhang D. Low Serum Testosterone Concentrations Are Associated With Poor Cognitive Performance in Older Men but Not Women. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:712237. [PMID: 34790110 PMCID: PMC8591394 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.712237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Current evidence on the association between serum testosterone and cognitive performance has been inconsistent, especially in older adults. To investigate the associations between serum testosterone and cognitive performance in a nationally representative sample of older men and women. Methods: We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014. 1,303 men and 1,349 women aged 60 years or older were included in the study. Serum total testosterone was preformed via isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC-MS/MS) method. Free testosterone was calculated by Vermeulen's formula. Cognitive performance was evaluated by the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) test, Animal Fluency test, and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Binary logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were applied to evaluate the association of testosterone and cognitive performance. Results: In men, higher concentrations of total testosterone were associated with better performance on CERAD test (OR = 0.51; 95%CI = 0.27-0.95) and DSST (OR = 0.54; 95%CI = 0.30-0.99) in adjusted group. Similarly, higher concentrations of free testosterone were associated with better performance on CERAD test (OR = 0.32; 95%CI = 0.17-0.61) and DSST (OR = 0.41; 95%CI = 0.17-0.96) in men. These associations were not seen in women. Conclusion: Serum testosterone concentrations were inversely associated with cognitive performance in older men but not women in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Dong
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders and State Key Disciplines: Physiology, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Suyun Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongfeng Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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19
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Ahmadpour D, Grange-Messent V. Involvement of Testosterone Signaling in the Integrity of the Neurovascular Unit in the Male: Review of Evidence, Contradictions, and Hypothesis. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:403-420. [PMID: 32512571 DOI: 10.1159/000509218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Age-related central nervous system function decline and increased susceptibility of females compared to males with respect to prevalence of several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases are both based on the principle that hormonal factors could be involved. These cerebral disorders are characterized by an alteration of blood-brain barrier (BBB) properties and chronic neuroinflammation, which lead to disease progression. Neuroinflammation, in turn, contributes to BBB dysfunction. The BBB and its environment, called the neurovascular unit (NVU), are crucial for cerebral homeostasis and neuronal function. Interestingly, sex steroids influence BBB properties and modulate neuroinflammatory responses. To date however, the majority of work reported has focused on the effects of estrogens on BBB function and neuroinflammation in female mammals. In contrast, the effects of testosterone signaling on the NVU in males are still poorly studied. The aim of this review was to summarize and discuss the literature, providing insights and contradictions to highlight hypothesis and the need for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delnia Ahmadpour
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1130, CNRS UMR 8246, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Grange-Messent
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1130, CNRS UMR 8246, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Paris, France,
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20
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Sundermann EE, Panizzon MS, Chen X, Andrews M, Galasko D, Banks SJ. Sex differences in Alzheimer's-related Tau biomarkers and a mediating effect of testosterone. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:33. [PMID: 32560743 PMCID: PMC7304096 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00310-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Women show greater pathological Tau biomarkers than men along the Alzheimer's disease (AD) continuum, particularly among apolipoprotein ε-E4 (APOE4) carriers; however, the reason for this sex difference in unknown. Sex differences often indicate an underlying role of sex hormones. We examined whether testosterone levels might influence this sex difference and the modifying role of APOE4 status. Analyses included 172 participants (25 cognitively normal, 97 mild cognitive impairment, 50 AD participants) from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (34% female, 54% APOE4 carriers, aged 55-90). We examined the separate and interactive effects of plasma testosterone levels and APOE4 on cerebrospinal fluid phosphorylated-tau181 (p-Tau) levels in the overall sample and the sex difference in p-Tau levels before and after adjusting for testosterone. A significant APOE4-by-testosterone interaction revealed that lower testosterone levels related to higher p-Tau levels among APOE4 carriers regardless of sex. As expected, women had higher p-Tau levels than men among APOE4 carriers only, yet this difference was eliminated upon adjustment for testosterone. Results suggest that testosterone is protective against p-Tau particularly among APOE4 carriers. The lower testosterone levels that typically characterize women may predispose them to pathological Tau, particularly among female APOE4 carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Sundermann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Matthew S. Panizzon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Murray Andrews
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Douglas Galasko
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Sarah J. Banks
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
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21
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Spritzer MD, Roy EA. Testosterone and Adult Neurogenesis. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020225. [PMID: 32028656 PMCID: PMC7072323 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that neurogenesis occurs throughout adulthood in select brain regions, but the functional significance of adult neurogenesis remains unclear. There is considerable evidence that steroid hormones modulate various stages of adult neurogenesis, and this review provides a focused summary of the effects of testosterone on adult neurogenesis. Initial evidence came from field studies with birds and wild rodent populations. Subsequent experiments with laboratory rodents have tested the effects of testosterone and its steroid metabolites upon adult neurogenesis, as well as the functional consequences of induced changes in neurogenesis. These experiments have provided clear evidence that testosterone increases adult neurogenesis within the dentate gyrus region of the hippocampus through an androgen-dependent pathway. Most evidence indicates that androgens selectively enhance the survival of newly generated neurons, while having little effect on cell proliferation. Whether this is a result of androgens acting directly on receptors of new neurons remains unclear, and indirect routes involving brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucocorticoids may be involved. In vitro experiments suggest that testosterone has broad-ranging neuroprotective effects, which will be briefly reviewed. A better understanding of the effects of testosterone upon adult neurogenesis could shed light on neurological diseases that show sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Spritzer
- Department of Biology, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: 802-443-5676
| | - Ethan A. Roy
- Graduate School of Education, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
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22
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Wang L, Pei JH, Jia JX, Wang J, Song W, Fang X, Cai ZP, Huo DS, Wang H, Yang ZJ. Inhibition of oxidative stress by testosterone improves synaptic plasticity in senescence accelerated mice. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2019; 82:1061-1068. [PMID: 31746286 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2019.1683988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that synaptic plasticity is associated with cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Testosterone (T) is known to exert protective effects on cognitive deficits in AD, but the underlying mechanisms of androgenic action on synaptic plasticity remain unclear. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the protective mechanism attributed to T on synaptic plasticity in an AD senescence accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. The following parameters were measured: (1) number of intact pyramidal cells in hippocampal CA1 region (2) phosphorylated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-1 (p-NMDAR1) and (3) phosphorylated calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (p-CaMKII). In addition, the content of whole brain malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were determined. Treatment with T significantly elevated the number of intact pyramidal cells in hippocampal CA1 region and markedly increased hippocampal protein and mRNA expression levels of p-NMDAR1 and p-CaMK II. Further, T significantly decreased whole brain MDA levels accompanied by elevated activities of SOD and GSH-Px. Data suggest that the protective effects of T on synaptic plasticity in a mouse AD model may be associated with reduction of oxidant stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- The Third Clinical Hospital, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Juan-Hui Pei
- Department of cardiology, Beijing Aerospace General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Jing Wang
- The Third Clinical Hospital, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Zhi-Ping Cai
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - He Wang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
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23
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Song W, Zhao J, Yan XS, Fang X, Huo DS, Wang H, Jia JX, Yang ZJ. Mechanisms Associated with Protective Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extracton in Rat Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2019; 82:1045-1051. [PMID: 31735125 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2019.1686215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral infarction occurs as a consequence of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (GbE) is composed predominantly of active ingredients such as flavonoids and terpene lactones and often used to treat cerebrovascular diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying the use of this herbal extract to treat cerebrovascular-mediated damage are not known. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of administration GbE to ameliorate the observed consequences of CIRI. The following parameters were measured: (1) behavioral score (2) infarct area (3) the content of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and (4) interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) expression levels in the infarcted brain tissue. Data demonstrated that treatment with GbE to CIRI rats resulted in significant reduction in cerebral-infarcted area associated with improvement in behavioral score. GbE was found to decrease serum MDA levels concomitant with elevated activity levels of SOD and GSH-PX. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis showed that GbE significantly lowered the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the infarcted brain tissue. Data suggest that GbE may be therapeutically effective in improving behavioral score in CIRI rats through reduction of oxidative stress and anti-inflammation in the cerebral infarction region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Song
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- The Third Clinical Hospital, Baotou Medical College, China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - He Wang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, China
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24
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Herrera-Morales WV, Herrera-Solís A, Núñez-Jaramillo L. Sexual Behavior and Synaptic Plasticity. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:2617-2631. [PMID: 31270644 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01483-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Although sex drive is present in many animal species, sexual behavior is not static and, like many other behaviors, can be modified by experience. This modification relies on synaptic plasticity, a sophisticated mechanism through which neurons change how they process a given stimulus, and the neurophysiological basis of learning. This review addresses the main plastic effects of steroid sex hormones in the central nervous system (CNS) and the effects of sexual experience on the CNS, including effects on neurogenesis, intracellular signaling, gene expression, and changes in dendritic spines, as well as behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Verónica Herrera-Morales
- División de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Quintana Roo, Av. Erick Paolo Martínez S/N esquina Av 4 de marzo. Colonia Magisterial, 77039, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - Andrea Herrera-Solís
- Laboratorio Efectos Terapéuticos de los Canabinoides, Subdirección de Investigación Biomédica, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Núñez-Jaramillo
- División de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Quintana Roo, Av. Erick Paolo Martínez S/N esquina Av 4 de marzo. Colonia Magisterial, 77039, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
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25
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Yan XS, Yang ZJ, Jia JX, Song W, Fang X, Cai ZP, Huo DS, Wang H. Protective mechanism of testosterone on cognitive impairment in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:649-657. [PMID: 30632505 PMCID: PMC6352583 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.245477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease is strongly associated with a reduction in synaptic plasticity, which may be induced by oxidative stress. Testosterone is beneficial in learning and memory, although the underlying protective mechanism of testosterone on cognitive performance remains unclear. This study explored the protective mechanism of a subcutaneous injection of 0.75 mg testosterone on cognitive dysfunction induced by bilateral injections of amyloid beta 1-42 oligomers into the lateral ventricles of male rats. Morris water maze test results demonstrated that testosterone treatment remarkably reduced escape latency and path length in Alzheimer's disease rat models. During probe trials, testosterone administration significantly elevated the percentage of time spent in the target quadrant and the number of platform crossings. However, flutamide, an androgen receptor antagonist, inhibited the protective effect of testosterone on cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease rat models. Nissl staining, immunohistochemistry, western blot assay, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed that the number of intact hippocampal pyramidal cells, the dendritic spine density in the hippocampal CA1 region, the immune response and expression level of postsynaptic density protein 95 in the hippocampus, and the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were increased with testosterone treatment. In contrast, testosterone treatment reduced malondialdehyde levels. Flutamide inhibited the effects of testosterone on all of these indicators. Our data showed that the protective effect of testosterone on cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease is mediated via androgen receptors to scavenge free radicals, thereby enhancing synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Sheng Yan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zhi-Ping Cai
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- Department of Human Anatomy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - He Wang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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26
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Sirtuin 1 alleviates diabetic neuropathic pain by regulating synaptic plasticity of spinal dorsal horn neurons. Pain 2019; 160:1082-1092. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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27
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WANG B, LI L, HE Z, WANG L, ZHANG S, QIAO H, JIA R, TAI F. Effects of reproductive experience on paternal behavior, levels of testosterone, prolactin in serum and dendritic spines in medial prefrontal cortex of mandarin voles. Integr Zool 2018; 13:711-722. [DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bo WANG
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
- Genetic Engineering Laboratory, College of Biological and Environmental engineering; Xi'an University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Laifu LI
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Zhixiong HE
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Limin WANG
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Siyi ZHANG
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Hui QIAO
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Rui JIA
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
| | - Fadao TAI
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences; Shaanxi Normal University; Xi'an Shaanxi China
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28
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Wu P, Yan XS, Zhang Y, Huo DS, Song W, Fang X, Wang H, Yang ZJ, Jia JX. The protective mechanism underlying total flavones of Dracocephalum (TFD) effects on rat cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2018; 81:1199-1206. [PMID: 30457456 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2018.1504385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Previously, total flavones of Dracocephalum (TFD), derived from Dracocephalum, were found to exert protective effects in cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (CIRI) in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model. However, the mechanisms underlying these observed effects of TFD on MCAO-induced rats still remain to be determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether TFD alleviated MCAO through mechanisms involving anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic using MCAO rats. The following parameters were measured: (1) percentage (%) area of brain infarction; (2) serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and (3) expression protein levels of caspase-3 and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Results showed that MCAO significantly increased the % area of brain infarction, while TFD administration in these animals markedly reduced % area of brain infarction. A significant elevation on serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 was noted with MCAO which was markedly reduced by TFD. In addition, MCAO produced a significant rise in protein expression levels of caspase-3 and AMPK. In contrast, TFD markedly lowered protein expression levels of caspase-3 and AMPK. Data suggest that the protective effects of TFD in MCAO model animals may involve inhibition of inflammatory mediator release associated with apoptosis through down regulation of AMPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wu
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Yu Zhang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Wei Song
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xin Fang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - He Wang
- b School of Health Sciences , University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
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29
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Jia JX, Yan XS, Song W, Fang X, Cai ZP, Huo DS, Wang H, Yang ZJ. The protective mechanism underlying phenylethanoid glycosides (PHG) actions on synaptic plasticity in rat Alzheimer's disease model induced by beta amyloid 1-42. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2018; 81:1098-1107. [PMID: 30430925 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2018.1501861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Phenylethanoid glycosides (PHG), derived from Herba cistanche, were found to exert protective effects on cognitive dysfunctions by improving synaptic plasticity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) rat model. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects of PHG on synaptic plasticity remain to be determined. Thus the aim of this study was to examine the influence of PHG on synaptic plasticity in male AD rat model induced by bilateral central nervous system ventricle injections of beta amyloid 1-42 oligomers (Aβ1-42). The following parameters were measured: (1) number of intact pyramidal cells in hippocampal CA1 region by Nissl staining, (2) post synaptic density 95 (PSD-95), phosphorylated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-1(p-NMDAR1) and (3) phosphorylated Tau protein (p-Tau) by immunohistochemistry and western blot. In addition, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were determined. Aβ1-42 lowered the number of intact pyramidal cells in hippocampal CA1 region. In contrast, treatment with PHG significantly elevated this cell number. Aβ1-42 significantly diminished protein expression levels of PSD-95 accompanied by elevated protein expression levels of p-NMDAR1 and p-Tau. PHG markedly increased protein expression levels of PSD-95, but significantly reduced protein expression levels of p-NMDAR1 and p-Tau. Further, Aβ1-42 markedly increased MDA content concomitantly with reduced activities of SOD and GSH-Px. PHG significantly decreased MDA content accompanied by elevated activities of SOD and GSH-Px. Data suggest that the protective effects of PHG on synaptic plasticity may involve inhibition of cytotoxicity-mediated by Aβ-1-42 administration and reduction of oxidant stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Xin Jia
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Wei Song
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xin Fang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Zhi-Ping Cai
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - He Wang
- b School of Health Sciences , University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
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30
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Wu P, Yan XS, Zhang Y, Huo DS, Song W, Fang X, Wang H, Yang ZJ, Jia JX. The protective mechanism underlying total flavones of Dracocephalum (TFD) effects on rat cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2018; 81:1108-1115. [PMID: 30430924 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2018.1503073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Previously, total flavones of Dracocephalum (TFD), derived from Dracocephalum, were found to exert protective effects in cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (CIRI) in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model. However, the mechanisms underlying these observed effects of TFD on MCAO-induced rats still remain to be determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether TFD alleviated MCAO through mechanisms involving anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic using MCAO rats. The following parameters were measured: (1) percentage (%) area of brain infarction; (2) serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and (3) expression protein levels of caspase-3 and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Results showed that MCAO significantly increased the % area of brain infarction, while TFD administration in these animals markedly reduced % area of brain infarction. A significant elevation on serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 was noted with MCAO which was markedly reduced by TFD. In addition, MCAO produced a significant rise in protein expression levels of caspase-3 and AMPK. In contrast, TFD markedly lowered protein expression levels of caspase-3 and AMPK. Data suggest that the protective effects of TFD in MCAO model animals may involve inhibition of inflammatory mediator release associated with apoptosis through down regulation of AMPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wu
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Yu Zhang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Wei Song
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xin Fang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - He Wang
- b School of Health Sciences , University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Jian-Xin Jia
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Baotou , Inner Mongolia , China
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31
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Gilioli L, Potì F, Simoni M, Casarini L. Molecular basis of androgen action on human sexual desire. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:31-41. [PMID: 28893567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental process for the species maintenance and the propagation of genetic information. The energy expenditure for mating is overtaken by motivational stimuli, such as orgasm, finely regulated by steroid hormones, gonadotropins, neurotransmitters and molecules acting in the brain and peripheral organs. These functions are often investigated using animal models and translated to humans, where the androgens action is mediated by nuclear and membrane receptors converging in the regulation of both long-term genomic and rapid non-genomic signals. In both sexes, testosterone is a central player of this game and is involved in the regulation of sexual desire and arousal, and, finally, in reproduction through cognitive and peripheral physiological mechanisms which may decline with aging and circadian disruption. Finally, genetic variations impact on reproductive behaviours, resulting in sex-specific effect and different reproductive strategies. In this review, androgen actions on sexual desire are evaluated, focusing on the molecular levels of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lisa Gilioli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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32
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Mhaouty-Kodja S. Role of the androgen receptor in the central nervous system. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 465:103-112. [PMID: 28826929 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The involvement of gonadal androgens in functions of the central nervous system was suggested for the first time about half a century ago. Since then, the number of functions attributed to androgens has steadily increased, ranging from regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and reproductive behaviors to modulation of cognition, anxiety and other non-reproductive functions. This review focuses on the implication of the neural androgen receptor in these androgen-sensitive functions and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, 7 Quai St Bernard, 75005 Paris, France.
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33
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Asih PR, Tegg ML, Sohrabi H, Carruthers M, Gandy SE, Saad F, Verdile G, Ittner LM, Martins RN. Multiple Mechanisms Linking Type 2 Diabetes and Alzheimer's Disease: Testosterone as a Modifier. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 59:445-466. [PMID: 28655134 DOI: 10.3233/jad-161259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Evidence in support of links between type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has increased considerably in recent years. AD pathological hallmarks include the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) and intracellular hyperphosphorylated tau in the brain, which are hypothesized to promote inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal loss. T2DM exhibits many AD pathological features, including reduced brain insulin uptake, lipid dysregulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and depression; T2DM has also been shown to increase AD risk, and with increasing age, the prevalence of both conditions increases. In addition, amylin deposition in the pancreas is more common in AD than in normal aging, and although there is no significant increase in cerebral Aβ deposition in T2DM, the extent of Aβ accumulation in AD correlates with T2DM duration. Given these similarities and correlations, there may be common underlying mechanism(s) that predispose to both T2DM and AD. In other studies, an age-related gradual loss of testosterone and an increase in testosterone resistance has been shown in men; low testosterone levels can also occur in women. In this review, we focus on the evidence for low testosterone levels contributing to an increased risk of T2DM and AD, and the potential of testosterone treatment in reducing this risk in both men and women. However, such testosterone treatment may need to be long-term, and would need regular monitoring to maintain testosterone at physiological levels. It is possible that a combination of testosterone therapy together with a healthy lifestyle approach, including improved diet and exercise, may significantly reduce AD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prita R Asih
- Department of Anatomy, Dementia Research Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,KaRa Institute of Neurological Diseases, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle L Tegg
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Hamid Sohrabi
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Alzheimer's Research Foundation Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Samuel E Gandy
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry and the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L Levy Place, New York, NY, USA
| | - Farid Saad
- Bayer Pharma AG, Global Medical Affairs Andrology, Berlin, Germany.,Gulf Medical University School of Medicine, Ajman, UAE
| | - Giuseppe Verdile
- Australian Alzheimer's Research Foundation Perth, WA, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin University of Technology, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Lars M Ittner
- Department of Anatomy, Dementia Research Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ralph N Martins
- KaRa Institute of Neurological Diseases, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Alzheimer's Research Foundation Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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34
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Zárate S, Stevnsner T, Gredilla R. Role of Estrogen and Other Sex Hormones in Brain Aging. Neuroprotection and DNA Repair. Front Aging Neurosci 2018. [PMID: 29311911 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00430/xml/nlm] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is an inevitable biological process characterized by a progressive decline in physiological function and increased susceptibility to disease. The detrimental effects of aging are observed in all tissues, the brain being the most important one due to its main role in the homeostasis of the organism. As our knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of brain aging increases, potential approaches to preserve brain function rise significantly. Accumulating evidence suggests that loss of genomic maintenance may contribute to aging, especially in the central nervous system (CNS) owing to its low DNA repair capacity. Sex hormones, particularly estrogens, possess potent antioxidant properties and play important roles in maintaining normal reproductive and non-reproductive functions. They exert neuroprotective actions and their loss during aging and natural or surgical menopause is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, synaptic decline, cognitive impairment and increased risk of age-related disorders. Moreover, loss of sex hormones has been suggested to promote an accelerated aging phenotype eventually leading to the development of brain hypometabolism, a feature often observed in menopausal women and prodromal Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although data on the relation between sex hormones and DNA repair mechanisms in the brain is still limited, various investigations have linked sex hormone levels with different DNA repair enzymes. Here, we review estrogen anti-aging and neuroprotective mechanisms, which are currently an area of intense study, together with the effect they may have on the DNA repair capacity in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Zárate
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tinna Stevnsner
- Danish Center for Molecular Gerontology and Danish Aging Research Center, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ricardo Gredilla
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
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35
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Zárate S, Stevnsner T, Gredilla R. Role of Estrogen and Other Sex Hormones in Brain Aging. Neuroprotection and DNA Repair. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:430. [PMID: 29311911 PMCID: PMC5743731 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is an inevitable biological process characterized by a progressive decline in physiological function and increased susceptibility to disease. The detrimental effects of aging are observed in all tissues, the brain being the most important one due to its main role in the homeostasis of the organism. As our knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of brain aging increases, potential approaches to preserve brain function rise significantly. Accumulating evidence suggests that loss of genomic maintenance may contribute to aging, especially in the central nervous system (CNS) owing to its low DNA repair capacity. Sex hormones, particularly estrogens, possess potent antioxidant properties and play important roles in maintaining normal reproductive and non-reproductive functions. They exert neuroprotective actions and their loss during aging and natural or surgical menopause is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, synaptic decline, cognitive impairment and increased risk of age-related disorders. Moreover, loss of sex hormones has been suggested to promote an accelerated aging phenotype eventually leading to the development of brain hypometabolism, a feature often observed in menopausal women and prodromal Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although data on the relation between sex hormones and DNA repair mechanisms in the brain is still limited, various investigations have linked sex hormone levels with different DNA repair enzymes. Here, we review estrogen anti-aging and neuroprotective mechanisms, which are currently an area of intense study, together with the effect they may have on the DNA repair capacity in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Zárate
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tinna Stevnsner
- Danish Center for Molecular Gerontology and Danish Aging Research Center, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ricardo Gredilla
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
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36
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Jia JX, Yan XS, Cai ZP, Song W, Huo DS, Zhang BF, Wang H, Yang ZJ. The effects of phenylethanoid glycosides, derived from Herba cistanche, on cognitive deficits and antioxidant activities in male SAMP8 mice. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:1180-1186. [PMID: 28880744 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1367097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive deficits are closely associated with hippocampal synaptic changes. Phenylethanoid glycosides (PhG), derived from Herba cistanche, are known to exert protective effects on cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the underlying mechanisms of this herbal extract on cognitive performance remain unclear. The aim of this study was thus to examine the protective mechanism attributed to PhG on cognitive deficits in an AD senescence accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. Cognitive deficit parameters examined included (1) Morris water maze (MWM) assessing cognitive performance and (2) quantification of dendritic spine density in hippocampal CA1 region by Golgi staining, a molecular biomarker of synaptic function. In addition, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and gluthathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were determined to examine the potential role of oxidant processes in cognitive dysfunction. Data showed that PhG significantly decreased escape latency and path length, associated with a rise in the percentage of time spent in the target quadrant and number of platform crossings. In addition, PhG significantly increased dendritic spine density in the hippocampal CA1 region accompanied by elevated expression levels of synaptophysin (SYN) and post synaptic density 95 (PSD-95), reduced MDA content, and elevated the activities of SOD and GSH-Px. Data suggest that the ability of PhG to ameliorate cognitive deficits in SAMP8 mice may be related to promotion in synaptic plasticity involving antioxidant processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Xin Jia
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xu-Sheng Yan
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Zhi-Ping Cai
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Wei Song
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huo
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Bai-Feng Zhang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - He Wang
- b School of Health Sciences , University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia
| | - Zhan-Jun Yang
- a Department of Human Anatomy , Baotou Medical College , Inner Mongolia , China
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37
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Krause Neto W, Silva WDA, Ciena AP, Nucci RAB, Anaruma CA, Gama EF. Effects of Strength Training and Anabolic Steroid in the Peripheral Nerve and Skeletal Muscle Morphology of Aged Rats. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:205. [PMID: 28713262 PMCID: PMC5491539 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Thirty male 20-month-old Wistar rats were divided into groups: IC—initial control (n = 6), FC—final control (n = 6), AC—anabolic hormone control (n = 6), ST—strength trained (n = 6) and STA—strength trained with anabolic hormone (n = 6). All groups were submitted to adaptation, familiarization and maximum load carrying test (MLCT). Strength training (6–8×/session with loads of 50%–100% MLCT, 3×/week and pause of 120 s) was performed in ladder climbing (LC) for 15 weeks. The administration of testosterone propionate (TP) was performed 2×/week (10 mg/kg) in animals in the AC and STA groups. After the experimental period, animals were euthanized and the tibial nerve and plantaris muscle removed and prepared for electron transmission and histochemistry. To compare the groups we used one-way ANOVA (post hoc Bonferroni), student’s t-tests for pre vs. post (dependent and independent variables) comparisons and significance level set at p ≤ 0.05. The following significant results were found: (a) aging decreased the number of myelinated axon fibers; (b) use of isolated TP increased the diameter of myelinated fibers, along with increased thickness of myelin sheath; (c) ST increased area of myelinated and unmyelinated fibers, together with the myelin sheath. These changes made it possible to increase the area occupied by myelinated fibers keeping their quantity and also reduce the interstitial space; and (d) association of anabolic steroid and ST increased the area of unmyelinated axons and thickness of the myelin sheath. Compared to ST, both strategies have similar results. However, Schwann cells increased significantly only in this strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Krause Neto
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphoquantitative Studies and Immunohistochemistry, São Judas Tadeu UniversitySão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wellington de A Silva
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphoquantitative Studies and Immunohistochemistry, São Judas Tadeu UniversitySão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriano P Ciena
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphology and Physical Activity, São Paulo State University "Júlio de Mesquita Filho"Rio Claro, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Aparecido Baptista Nucci
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphoquantitative Studies and Immunohistochemistry, São Judas Tadeu UniversitySão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos A Anaruma
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphology and Physical Activity, São Paulo State University "Júlio de Mesquita Filho"Rio Claro, Brazil
| | - Eliane F Gama
- Department of Physical Education, Laboratory of Morphoquantitative Studies and Immunohistochemistry, São Judas Tadeu UniversitySão Paulo, Brazil
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38
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Lukiw WJ, Rogaev EI. Genetics of Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:87. [PMID: 28443016 PMCID: PMC5385328 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a terminal, age-related neurological syndrome exhibiting progressive cognitive and memory decline, however AD patients in addition exhibit ancillary neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) and these include aggression. In this communication we provide recent evidence for the mis-regulation of a small family of genes expressed in the human hippocampus that appear to be significantly involved in expression patterns common to both AD and aggression. DNA array- and mRNA transcriptome-based gene expression analysis and candidate gene association and/or genome-wide association studies (CGAS, GWAS) of aggressive attributes in humans have revealed a surprisingly small subset of six brain genes that are also strongly associated with altered gene expression patterns in AD. These genes encoded on five different chromosomes (chr) include the androgen receptor (AR; chrXq12), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF; chr11p14.1), catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT; chr22q11.21), neuronal specific nitric oxide synthase (NOS1; chr12q24.22), dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH chr9q34.2) and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH1, chr11p15.1 and TPH2, chr12q21.1). Interestingly, (i) the expression of three of these six genes (COMT, DBH, NOS1) are highly variable; (ii) three of these six genes (COMT, DBH, TPH1) are involved in DA or serotonin metabolism, biosynthesis and/or neurotransmission; and (iii) five of these six genes (AR, BDNF, COMT, DBH, NOS1) have been implicated in the development, onset and/or propagation of schizophrenia. The magnitude of the expression of genes implicated in aggressive behavior appears to be more pronounced in the later stages of AD when compared to MCI. These recent genetic data further indicate that the extent of cognitive impairment may have some bearing on the degree of aggression which accompanies the AD phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter J Lukiw
- Louisiana State University (LSU) Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Science CenterNew Orleans, LA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University Health Science CenterNew Orleans, LA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health Science CenterNew Orleans, LA, USA.,Bollinger Professor of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Louisiana State University Health Sciences CenterNew Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Evgeny I Rogaev
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of SciencesMoscow, Russia.,Center for Brain Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of SciencesNovosibirsk, Russia.,Department of Psychiatry, Brudnick Neuropsychiatric Research Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcester, MA, USA.,School of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State UniversityMoscow, Russia
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39
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Song J, Jung C, Kim OY. The Novel Implication of Androgen in Diabetes-induced Alzheimer's Disease. J Lipid Atheroscler 2017. [DOI: 10.12997/jla.2017.6.2.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Chaeyong Jung
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Oh Yoen Kim
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Dong-A University, Busan, Korea
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40
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Ruszkiewicz JA, Li S, Rodriguez MB, Aschner M. Is Triclosan a neurotoxic agent? JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2017; 20:104-117. [PMID: 28339349 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2017.1281181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Triclosan (TCS) is an antibacterial agent that has been used in many products since 1960s. Given its broad usage as an antiseptic TCS is present ubiquitously in the environment. Trace levels of TCS continue to be detected in many organisms, and it has been shown to be particularly toxic to aquatic species. The mechanisms underlying TCS-mediated toxicity include hormone dyshomeostasis, induction of oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation. Although TCS has been considered to be non-toxic to mammals, the adverse effects of continuous, long-term and low concentration exposure remain unknown. Epidemiological studies revealed that levels of TCS in human tissues, urine, plasma and breast milk correlate with the usage of this antimicrobial. This led to concerns regarding TCS safety and potential toxicity in humans, with special emphasis on early development. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a directive banning the use of TCS in consumer soaps, justifying the move attributed to data gaps on its effectiveness and safety, indicating the need for more studies addressing this chemical-mediated effects on various tissues including the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this review was to (1) summarize the current findings on the neurotoxic effects of TCS and given the paucity of data, to (2) broaden the discussion to other effects of TCS, which might plausibly be related to neuronal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna A Ruszkiewicz
- a Department of Molecular Pharmacology , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , NY , United States
| | - Shaojun Li
- b Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health , Guangxi Medical University , Guangxi , China
| | - Maliya B Rodriguez
- a Department of Molecular Pharmacology , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , NY , United States
| | - Michael Aschner
- a Department of Molecular Pharmacology , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , NY , United States
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