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Buendía-González FO, Cervantes-Candelas LA, Aguilar-Castro J, Fernández-Rivera O, Nolasco-Pérez TDJ, López-Padilla MS, Chavira-Ramírez DR, Cervantes-Sandoval A, Legorreta-Herrera M. DHEA Induces Sex-Associated Differential Patterns in Cytokine and Antibody Levels in Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12549. [PMID: 37628731 PMCID: PMC10454633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612549] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria is the most lethal parasitic disease worldwide; the severity of symptoms and mortality are higher in men than in women, exhibiting an evident sexual dimorphism in the immune response; therefore, the contribution of 17β-estradiol and testosterone to this phenomenon has been studied. Both hormones differentially affect several aspects of innate and adaptive immunity. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the precursor of both hormones and is the sexual steroid in higher concentrations in humans, with immunomodulatory properties in different parasitic diseases; however, the involvement of DHEA in this sexual dimorphism has not been studied. In the case of malaria, the only information is that higher levels of DHEA are associated with reduced Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia. Therefore, this work aims to analyze the DHEA contribution to the sexual dimorphism of the immune response in malaria. We assessed the effect of modifying the concentration of DHEA on parasitemia, the number of immune cells in the spleen, cytokines, and antibody levels in plasma of CBA/Ca mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (P. berghei ANKA). DHEA differentially affected the immune response in males and females: it decreased IFN-γ, IL-2 and IL-4 concentrations only in females, whereas in gonadectomized males, it increased IgG2a and IgG3 antibodies. The results presented here show that DHEA modulates the immune response against Plasmodium differently in each sex, which helps to explain the sexual dimorphism present in malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidel Orlando Buendía-González
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Luis Antonio Cervantes-Candelas
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
| | - Jesús Aguilar-Castro
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Omar Fernández-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Teresita de Jesús Nolasco-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Monserrat Sofía López-Padilla
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - David Roberto Chavira-Ramírez
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico;
| | - Armando Cervantes-Sandoval
- Laboratorio de Aplicaciones Computacionales, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico;
| | - Martha Legorreta-Herrera
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico; (F.O.B.-G.); (L.A.C.-C.); (J.A.-C.); (O.F.-R.); (T.J.N.-P.); (M.S.L.-P.)
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Aguilar-Castro J, Cervantes-Candelas LA, Buendía-González FO, Fernández-Rivera O, Nolasco-Pérez TDJ, López-Padilla MS, Chavira-Ramírez DR, Cervantes-Sandoval A, Legorreta-Herrera M. Testosterone induces sexual dimorphism during infection with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:968325. [PMID: 36237427 PMCID: PMC9551224 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.968325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is the most lethal parasitic disease worldwide; men exhibit higher mortality and more severe symptomatology than women; however, in most studies of immune response in malaria, sex is not considered a variable. Sex hormones 17β-oestradiol and testosterone are responsible for the main physiological differences between sexes. When interacting with their receptors on different immune cells, they modify the expression of genes that modulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and synthesis of cytokines. The immunosuppressive activity of testosterone is well accepted; however, its participation in the sexual dimorphism of the immune response to malaria has not been studied. In this work, we analysed whether altering the concentration of testosterone, through increasing the concentration of this hormone for exogenous administration for three weeks, or gonadectomy before infection with Plasmodium berghei ANKA affects different cells of the immune response necessary for parasite clearance. We also assessed the concentration of pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines in male and female CBA/Ca mice infected or not with the parasite. Our results show that testosterone changes affect females more than males, resulting in sex-associated patterns. Testosterone administration increased parasitaemia in intact males while reducing it in intact females leading to a dimorphic pattern. In addition, gonadectomy increased parasitaemia in both sexes. Moreover, testosterone administration prevented both weight loss caused by the infection in females and hypothermia in gonadectomized mice of both sexes. Boosting testosterone concentration increased CD3+ and CD8+ populations but decreased the B220+ cells exclusively in females. Additionally, testosterone reduced IFN-γ concentration and increased IL-6 levels only in females, while in males, testosterone increased the number of NK cells. Finally, gonadectomy decreased TNF-α concentration in both sexes. Our results demonstrate that testosterone induces different patterns depending on sex and testosterone concentration. The results of this work contribute to understanding the impact of modifying testosterone concentration on the immune response specific against Plasmodium and the participation of this hormone in sexual dimorphism in malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Aguilar-Castro
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Antonio Cervantes-Candelas
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fidel Orlando Buendía-González
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Omar Fernández-Rivera
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Teresita de Jesús Nolasco-Pérez
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Monserrat Sofía López-Padilla
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - David Roberto Chavira-Ramírez
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Armando Cervantes-Sandoval
- Laboratorio de Aplicaciones Computacionales, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Martha Legorreta-Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Química Computacional, Síntesis y Farmacología de Moléculas de Interés Biológico. Laboratorio de Inmunología Molecular, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Martha Legorreta-Herrera,
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Brauer VS, Zambuzi FA, Espíndola MS, Cavalcanti Neto MP, Prado MKB, Cardoso PM, Soares LS, Galvao-Lima LJ, Leopoldino AM, Cardoso CRDB, Frantz FG. The influence of dehydroepiandrosterone on effector functions of neutrophils. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902020000419139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Krysiak R, Szkróbka W, Okopień B. Impact of dehydroepiandrosterone on thyroid autoimmunity and function in men with autoimmune hypothyroidism. Int J Clin Pharm 2020; 43:998-1005. [PMID: 33245519 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-020-01207-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Testosterone administration was found to have a protective effect on thyroid autoimmunity in men with autoimmune (Hashimoto's) thyroiditis. Objective The present study was aimed at assessing whether oral dehydroepiandrosterone affects thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis activity in men with subclinical hypothyroidism induced by Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Setting The study was conducted at Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland. Method The study enrolled 32 elderly men with autoimmune hypothyroidism and low dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels. Based on patient preference, the participants either received oral dehydroepiandrosterone (50 mg daily; n = 16) or remained untreated (n = 16). Apart from measuring antibody titers and hormone levels, we calculated baseline and post-treatment values of three structure parameters of thyroid homeostasis. Main outcome measure Serum titers of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies. Results At baseline, there were no significant differences in the investigated parameters between both groups of men. All participants completed the study. Oral dehydroepiandrosterone increased dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and testosterone levels, as well as had a neutral effect on estradiol levels. The increase in dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate correlated with treatment-induced changes in serum testosterone. Moreover, dehydroepiandrosterone reduced titers of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies, decreased serum thyrotropin levels, reduced Jostel's thyrotropin index as well as increased thyroid's secretory capacity. Treatment-induced changes in thyroid antibody titers, thyrotropin levels, Jostel's thyrotropin index and thyroid's secretory capacity correlated with the increase in dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and testosterone levels. Conclusion The obtained results show that exogenous dehydroepiandrosterone may exert a beneficial effect on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis activity in men with autoimmune thyroiditis and subclinical hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Krysiak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Witold Szkróbka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752, Katowice, Poland
| | - Bogusław Okopień
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752, Katowice, Poland
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Krysiak R, Szkróbka W, Okopień B. Dehydroepiandrosterone potentiates the effect of vitamin D on thyroid autoimmunity in euthyroid women with autoimmune thyroiditis: A pilot study. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2020; 48:195-202. [PMID: 33007106 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The impact of androgens on the thyroid in women is poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether vitamin D/dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) combination therapy is superior to vitamin D alone in affecting thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis activity in young women with autoimmune thyroid disease. The study included 35 euthyroid women with untreated Hashimoto's thyroiditis and reduced sexual drive, allocated to one of two treatment groups. The first group (n = 19) received both vitamin D and DHEA, while the second (n = 16) was treated with only vitamin D. Serum thyroid antibody titres and concentrations of thyrotropin, free thyroid hormones, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEA-S), 25-hydroxyvitamin D, testosterone and estradiol were measured at baseline and 6 months later. Vitamin D administered alone or in combination with DHEA decreased serum titres of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies, which correlated with baseline antibody titres, baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and treatment-induced increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Apart from a stronger effect on antibody titres, vitamin D/DHEA combination therapy slightly decreased thyrotropin levels, as well as increased DHEA-S and testosterone levels. In this group of women, treatment-induced changes in antibody titres and thyrotropin levels correlated with the impact on DHEA-S and testosterone. The obtained results suggest that vitamin D/DHEA combination therapy may be a better treatment option for euthyroid women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis than vitamin D alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Krysiak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Witold Szkróbka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Bogusław Okopień
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Dehydroepiandrosterone resisted E. Coli O157:H7-induced inflammation via blocking the activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways in mice. Cytokine 2019; 127:154955. [PMID: 31864092 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2019.154955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a critical metabolite in cholesterol metabolism, can regulate the inflammatory responses in humans or animals. However, the precise mechanisms of these beneficial actions remains poorly understood. Present study aims to clarify the anti-inflammatory function of DHEA and its possible mechanisms in the E. coli O157:H7-stimulated mice. The results indicated that DHEA reduced the mortality of mice and bacterial concentration in the peritoneal fluid in the E. coli-stimulated mice. DHEA increased the spleen index, the activity of lactate dehydrogenase and acid phosphatase; while it decreased the nitric oxide (NO) content and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity in mice. The mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) were decreased, whereas the interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA levels were increased in the E. coli-stimulated mice treated with DHEA. Moreover, DHEA treatment reversed the increasing of IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio in mice caused by E. coli infection. Importantly, DHEA blocked the nuclear translocation of p65 through down-regulation the IκB-α protein phosphorylation level in the mice stimulated with E. coli O157:H7. No statically changes were showed on the phospho (p)-ERK1/2 and p-JNK1/2 protein level, while DHEA significantly suppressed the p-p38 protein level in mice. The above results indicated that DHEA alleviated inflammatory responses by suppressing NO secretion and promoting Th2-associated anti-inflammatory cytokines production in mice; and this action might relate to the blocking of p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways activation. All the above results provide substantial information for understanding the anti-inflammatory function of DHEA and further support it as a potential immunomodulatory in prevention inflammatory and bacterial infection diseases.
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Zhao J, Cao J, Yu L, Ma H. Dehydroepiandrosterone alleviates E. Coli O157:H7-induced inflammation by preventing the activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways in mice peritoneal macrophages. Mol Immunol 2019; 114:114-122. [PMID: 31351412 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
As an important metabolite in cholesterol metabolism, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) can modulate the immune function in animals and humans, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. The present study investigated the effect and mechanism of DHEA's anti-inflammatory action in primary mice peritoneal macrophages infected with E. coli O157:H7. The finding showed that DHEA improved the phagocytic ability in E. coli O157:H7-infected macrophages. DHEA inhibited the cytokines (including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6) secretion in E. coli O157:H7-infected macrophages. The inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 protein level were significantly decreased in E. coli O157:H7-infected macrophages treated with DHEA. In addition, DHEA markedly decreased the phospho (p)-p38 MAPK protein level in E. coli O157:H7-infected macrophages. Furthermore, DHEA prevented the nuclear translocation of NF-κB by decreasing of p-IκB-α protein level in E. coli O157:H7-infected macrophage; and these effects of DHEA were heightened when the cells were pre-treated with p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Our data indicated that DHEA alleviates the pro-inflammatory mediator production in E. coli O157:H7-infected mice peritoneal macrophages; and this beneficial action associated with it prevents the activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ji Cao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Haitian Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone on the immune function of mice in vivo and in vitro. Mol Immunol 2019; 112:283-290. [PMID: 31228660 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and immune-regulating properties, while the mechanism of DHEA actions remains unclear. The present study aims to investigate the effect and possible mechanism of DHEA on immune function of mice in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced experimental inflammation model was constructed to analyze the regulation of DHEA on anti-oxidative and immune function in ICR mice; In vitro, the effects of DHEA on the biological functions of lymphocytes and macrophages were studied. The results showed that DHEA increased the activity of total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase, while it decreased the level of reactive oxygen species in LPS-induced mice. Meanwhile, DHEA increased the proportion of T lymphocytes and decreased that of B lymphocytes in primary cultured spleen lymphocytes, and markedly enhanced the Th1/Th2 ratio in spleen T lymphocytes. Furthermore, DHEA significantly increased the Th1 type cytokine (IL-2 and IFN-α) and decreased the Th2 type cytokine (IL-4 and IL-10) levels in LPS-induced mice or in primary cultured spleen T lymphocytes. In addition, DHEA improved the phagocytic ability, enhanced the NO production and increased the iNOS activity in peritoneal macrophages. Our data indicates that DHEA increases the macrophages function via improving NO content and up-regulating TNF-α expression levels; and it evoked a Th1 immuno-response and repressed a Th2 immuno-response through promoting a shift in Th1/Th2 balance toward Th1-dominant immunity in vivo and in vitro. These results provide substantial evidence on the mechanism of DHEA-mediated immune function and the efficient protection against infectious and inflammatory response in animals and humans.
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Alves VBF, Basso PJ, Nardini V, Silva A, Chica JEL, Cardoso CRDB. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) restrains intestinal inflammation by rendering leukocytes hyporesponsive and balancing colitogenic inflammatory responses. Immunobiology 2016; 221:934-43. [PMID: 27263829 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2016.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that plays an important role in the modulation of inflammatory responses. However, the precise mechanisms that link the actions of this androgen with protection or susceptibility to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) remain uknown. Here we showed that low dose DHEA inhibited proliferation of spleen cells and IFN-у production. The hormone was not toxic to myeloid lineage cells, although it caused necrosis of spleen cells at the intermediate and highest doses in vitro (50 and 100μM). The treatment of C57BL/6 mice with DHEA during colitis induction by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) led to a reduction in weight loss and clinical signs of disease. There were decreased peripheral blood monocytes on day 6 of DSS exposure and treatment, besides increase in circulating neutrophils in the tissue repair phase. DHEA also led to reduced lamina propria cellularity and restoration of normal colon length. These results were accompanied by decreased expression of IL-6 and TGF-β mRNA, while IL-13 was augmented in the colon on day 6, which was probably related to attenuation of inflammation. There was retention of CD4(+) cells in the spleen after use of DHEA, along with augmented frequency of CD4(+)IL-4(+) cells, decreased CD4(+)IFN-ɣ(+) in spleen and constrained CD4(+)IL-17(+) population in the mesenteric lymph nodes. Moreover, splenocytes of mice treated with DHEA became hyporesponsive, as observed by reduced proliferation after re-stimulation ex-vivo. In conclusion, DHEA modifyies leukocyte activity and balances the exacerbated immune responses which drive local and systemic damages in IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Beatriz Freitas Alves
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo José Basso
- Departamento de Imunologia e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Viviani Nardini
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angélica Silva
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Cristina Ribeiro de Barros Cardoso
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Chernykh ER, Leplina OY, Tikhonova MA, Seledtsova NV, Tyrinova TV, Khonina NA, Ostanin AA, Pasman NM. Elevated levels of dehydroepiandrosterone as a potential mechanism of dendritic cell impairment during pregnancy. BMC Immunol 2015; 16:2. [PMID: 25636695 PMCID: PMC4322645 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-014-0065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to test the hypothesis that immune dysfunction and the increased risk of spontaneous abortion in pregnant women with hyperandrogenia (HA) are caused by the reduced tolerogenic potential of dendritic cells (DCs) that results from elevated levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). METHODS The phenotypic and functional properties of monocyte-derived DCs generated from blood monocytes from non-pregnant women, women with a normal pregnancy, or pregnant women with HA, as well as the in vitro effects of DHEAS on DCs in healthy pregnant women were investigated. RESULTS In a normal pregnancy, DCs were shown to be immature and are characterized by a reduced number of CD83(+) and CD25(+) DCs, the ability to stimulate type 2 T cell responses and to induce T cell apoptosis. By contrast, DCs from pregnant women with HA had a mature phenotype, were able to stimulate both type 1 (IFN-γ) and type 2 (IL-4) T cell responses, and were characterized by lower B7-H1 expression and cytotoxic activity against CD8(+) T cells. The addition of DHEAS to cultures of DCs from healthy pregnant women induced the maturation of DCs and increased their ability to activate type 1 T cell responses. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrated the reduction in the tolerogenic potential of DCs from pregnant women with HA, and revealed new mechanisms involved in the hormonal regulation of DCs mediated by DHEAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena R Chernykh
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Olga Yu Leplina
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Marina A Tikhonova
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Nataliya V Seledtsova
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Tamara V Tyrinova
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Nataliya A Khonina
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Alexandr A Ostanin
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunotherapy, Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 14, Yadrintsevskaya St., 630099, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Nataliya M Pasman
- Novosibirsk State University, 2, Pirogova St., 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia.
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Prall SP, Muehlenbein MP. Testosterone and Immune Function in Primates: A Brief Summary with Methodological Considerations. INT J PRIMATOL 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-014-9752-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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12
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[Testosterone reduces the expression of keratinization-promoting genes in murine Meibomian glands]. Ophthalmologe 2013; 110:230-8. [PMID: 23224122 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-012-2661-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive keratinization appears to play a major role in the dysfunction of the Meibomian gland. This article presents the potential impact of androgens on limiting keratinization in this tissue, thus, contributing to normal Meibomian gland function and a healthy ocular surface. MATERIALS AND METHODS Orchidectomized mice were systemically treated with either testosterone or placebo for 2 weeks. The mRNA was then extracted from the Meibomian glands and differential gene expression was investigated by microarray hybridization and evaluation with GeneSifter software as well as gene ontology information from the Gene Ontology (GO) Consortium. RESULTS By z-score calculations, keratinization was the most significantly gene ontology term influenced by testosterone based on down-regulated genes in the mouse Meibomian gland. In particular, under the influence of testosterone the genes coding for small proline-rich protein (Sprr) 2a, Sprr 2b, Sprr 3, keratins 6a and 17 and periplakin were significantly down-regulated, while Sprr 1a and Sprr 2f were significantly up-regulated. CONCLUSIONS Testosterone down-regulates the expression of genes promoting keratinization in the Meibomian gland. This may help to prevent Meibomian gland dysfunction by limiting excessive keratinization of this tissue and the adjacent lid margins. The findings elucidate, at least in part, the beneficial impact of androgens on Meibomian gland function and thus on th e health of the ocular surface.
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Immunomodulatory effect of the alkaloidic extract of Solanum lycocarpum fruits in mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Exp Parasitol 2013; 133:396-402. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2011] [Revised: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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14
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Kasperska-Zajac A. Does dehydroepiandrosterone influence the expression of urticaria?-a mini review. Inflammation 2012; 34:362-6. [PMID: 20686829 PMCID: PMC3170459 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-010-9242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Chronic urticaria is a challenging problem since the exact cause and mechanism involved in the disease development have still remained unknown. This disease is associated with mast cells activation and immunoinflammatory processes. Interestingly, dysfunctions of the neuroendocrine-immune system due to stress and other factors seem to appear as a very interesting theory for urticaria pathogenesis. Dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate derivative (DHEA-S) appear to have regulatory effects in immune homeostasis and are regulated by the nervous system, and it is suggested that they may be an integral element of neuroimmunomodulation. Our studies showed substantially decreased serum concentration of DHEA-S in patients with chronic urticaria. However, current knowledge prevents answering whether lower circulating DHEA-S concentration is a primary phenomenon or just an accompanying one which appears as a response of different systems to the course of the illness and may not be of any importance for the pathogenesis of urticaria whatsoever. This review is a summary of clinical research on the role of DHEA in chronic urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kasperska-Zajac
- Clinical Department of Internal Diseases, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Ceglana 35, 40-952, Katowice, Poland.
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Liou CJ, Huang WC. Dehydroepiandrosterone suppresses eosinophil infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness via modulation of chemokines and Th2 cytokines in ovalbumin-sensitized mice. J Clin Immunol 2011; 31:656-65. [PMID: 21643893 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-011-9529-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory response and the mechanism by which dehydroepiandrosterone modulates immunity in ovalbumin-sensitized asthmatic mice. Female BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin and then treated with oral administration of dehydroepiandrosterone on days 21 to 27. The results showed dehydroepiandrosterone could suppress airway hyperresponsiveness and decrease eosinophil infiltration of the lungs in ovalbumin-sensitized mice. Moreover, dehydroepiandrosterone inhibited chemokines, including CCL11/eotaxin-1 and CCL24/eotaxin-2, and Th2-associated cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. After the inflammatory human bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B was treated with dehydroepiandrosterone, levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines were inhibited, including IL-6, IL-8, CCL11, and CCL24. We suggested that dehydroepiandrosterone inhibited inflammation in bronchial epithelial cells as indicated by the suppression of Th2-associated cytokines and chemokines. Dehydroepiandrosterone also suppressed eosinophil migration and infiltration into the lung to improve the symptoms of asthma in ovalbumin-sensitized mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chian-Jiun Liou
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Institute of Technology, 261 Wen-Hwa 1st Road, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, 333, Republic of China.
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16
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Kuehn CC, Oliveira LGR, Santos CD, Augusto MB, Toldo MPA, do Prado JC. Prior and concomitant dehydroepiandrosterone treatment affects immunologic response of cultured macrophages infected with Trypanosoma cruzi in vitro? Vet Parasitol 2010; 177:242-6. [PMID: 21255931 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 12/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
DHEA, a steroid hormone synthesized from cholesterol by cells of the adrenal cortex, plays an essential role in enhancing the host's resistance to different experimental infections. Receptors for this hormone can be found in distinct immune cells (especially macrophages) that are known to be the first line defense against Trypanosoma cruzi infection. These cells operate through an indirect pathway releasing nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines such TNF-α and IL-12 which in turn trigger an enhancement of natural killer cells and lymphocytes which finally secrete pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The effects of pre- and post-infection DHEA treatment on production of IL-12, TNFα and NO were evaluated. T. cruzi infected macrophages post treated with DHEA displayed enhanced concentrations of TNF-α, IL-12 and NO. Probably, the mechanisms that induced the production of cytokines by infected cells are more efficient when the immune system has been stimulated first by parasite invasion, suggesting that the protective role of DHEA is greater when administered post infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian C Kuehn
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Niro S, Hennebert O, Morfin R. New insights into the protective effects of DHEA1). Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2010; 4:489-98. [PMID: 25961225 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci.2010.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies investigated the effects of pharmacological doses of DHEA in animals. Among protective effects, antiglucocorticoid potencies, triggering and modulation of immunity and anticancerous effects were reported. Because DHEA levels decrease in aging humans, this steroid has been assayed as replacement therapy in elderly volunteers without striking evidence for beneficial effects. Examination of the investigations carried out in animals lead to suspect that, rather than DHEA, its metabolites produced in tissues could be responsible for some of the observed effects. Known as the "mother steroid", DHEA is a precursor for androgenic and estrogenic steroid hormones. In addition, DHEA is hydroxylated at the 7α position by the cytochrome P450 7B1 (CYP7B1), and the 7α-hydroxy-DHEA produced is a substrate for the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) which converts it into 7β-hydroxy-DHEA. Both 7-hydroxylated metabolites were shown to favor the onset of immunity in mice and the activation of memory T cells in humans. Other DHEA and testosterone-derived metabolites, namely epiandrosterone and 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol, are also substrates for the CYP7B1 and their 7α-hydroxylated products were also converted into the 7β epimer by the 11β-HSD1. When assayed at doses 104 lower than DHEA, 7β-hydroxy-epiandrosterone was shown to shift the prostaglandin metabolism patterns from prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to PGD2 production, thus triggering the resolution of inflammation. In addition, 7β-hydroxy-epiandrosterone (1 nM) exerted the same effects as tamoxifen (1 μM) on the proliferation of MCF-7 and MDA-231 human breast cancer cells. These findings suggest that the observed effects of 7β-hydroxy-epiandrosterone could be mediated by estrogen receptors. This overview of recent research implies that DHEA does not act directly and that its effects are due to its metabolites when produced in tissues. Treatments with DHEA should take into account the target tissue abilities to produce the desired metabolites through the two key enzymes, CYP7B1 and 11β-HSD1.
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Hazeldine J, Arlt W, Lord JM. Dehydroepiandrosterone as a regulator of immune cell function. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 120:127-36. [PMID: 20060904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2009.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Revised: 12/16/2009] [Accepted: 12/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a C19 steroid of adrenal origin. Notably, its secretion declines with age, a phenomenon referred to as the "adrenopause". For many years, the physiological significance of DHEA remained elusive. However, many studies have now shown that DHEA has significant immune modulatory function, exhibiting both immune stimulatory and anti-glucocorticoid effects. Although several of these studies are limited by the fact that they were carried out in rodents, who are incapable of adrenal DHEA production, and therefore have very low circulating levels of this steroid, evidence from the study of immune cells is now accumulating to suggest a role for DHEA in regulating human immunity. This ability to regulate immune function has raised interest in the therapeutic potential of DHEA as a treatment for the immunological abnormalities that arise in subjects with low circulating levels of this hormone. This has included attempts at reversing the impaired immune response of older individuals to vaccination and restoring immune regulation in patients with chronic autoimmune disease. This review summarises the reported effects of DHEA on immune function and discusses the therapeutic potential of this steroid in geriatric medicine and particularly in age-related disease with an immune component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Hazeldine
- MRC Centre for Immune Regulation, Birmingham University Medical School, UK
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19
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Tan XD, Dou YC, Shi CW, Duan RS, Sun RP. Administration of dehydroepiandrosterone ameliorates experimental autoimmune neuritis in Lewis rats. J Neuroimmunol 2009; 207:39-44. [PMID: 19174309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2008.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2008] [Revised: 11/20/2008] [Accepted: 11/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an abundant adrenal steroid in serum of humans, and has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and certain immune-regulating properties. Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a Th1 cell-mediated animal model of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in humans. In the present study, DHEA was administered subcutaneously to Lewis rats immunized with bovine peripheral myelin (BPM) in Freund's complete adjuvant. Rats treated with DHEA displayed significant delay in onset, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in the PNS. Benefit was associated with significant decreases in numbers of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha expressing cells in the PNS, BPM-stimulated T cell proliferation and IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha-secretion in the spleen cells. Only 2 mg DHEA-treated EAN rats decreased peak clinical score. No significant difference of supernatant IL-10 was found among the treatment and control groups. These results suggest that DHEA can ameliorate the severity of EAN by suppressing the proliferation of autoreactive T cell and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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20
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Luchetti CG, Mikó E, Szekeres-Bartho J, Paz DA, Motta AB. Dehydroepiandrosterone and metformin modulate progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) and cytokines in early pregnant mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2008; 111:200-7. [PMID: 18606228 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2008.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2008] [Revised: 05/27/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined the mechanism by which metformin (N,N'-dimethylbiguanide) prevents embryonic resorption induced in mice by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Treatment with DHEA (60mg/kg, s.c. 24 and 48h post-implantation) induces embryo resorption of early pregnant BALB/c mice while simultaneous treatment with metformin (240mg/kg, oral 24 and 48h post-implantation) prevents it. During pregnancy progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) modulates prostaglandins (PGs) and cytokine production. These findings prompted us to investigate the effect of DHEA and metformin on both PIBF and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expressions at the implantation sites, as well as cytokine production. PIBF and COX2 expression were detected by immunohistochemistry from DHEA and DHEA+ metformin treated 8 days-pregnant mice and serum cytokine levels of these animals were determined by ELISA. DHEA treatment both abolished PIBF expression and increased COX2 expression. Embryo resorption correlates with the lack of PIBF expression, diminished IL-6 levels and increased IL-2 concentration while metformin was able to reverse the effect of DHEA on both PIBF and COX2 expression and IL-6 levels. We concluded that hyperandrogenization induces embryo resorption in early pregnancy diminishing PIBF in implantation sites, having a pro-inflammatory effect. Metformin is able to prevent such effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Luchetti
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Paraguay 2155, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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21
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Solano ME, Sander V, Wald MR, Motta AB. Dehydroepiandrosterone and metformin regulate proliferation of murine T lymphocytes. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 153:289-96. [PMID: 18549441 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03696.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA: 10 microM) and metformin (10 microM and 100 microM) in regulating proliferation of cultured T lymphocytes. T cells were isolated from lymph nodes of prepuberal BALB/c mice. We found that DHEA, metformin and DHEA + metformin added to the incubation media diminished proliferation of T cells. The inhibition by DHEA was higher than that produced by metformin, while the combined treatment showed a synergistic action that allowed us to speculate distinct regulatory pathways. This was supported later by other findings in which the addition of DHEA to the incubation media did not modify T lymphocyte viability, while treatment with metformin and DHEA + metformin diminished cellular viability and increased both early and late apoptosis. Moreover, DHEA diminished the content of the anti-oxidant molecule glutathione (GSH), whereas M and DHEA + metformin increased GSH levels and diminished lipid peroxidation. We conclude that DHEA and metformin diminish proliferation of T cells through different pathways and that not only the increase, but also the decrease of oxidative stress inhibited proliferation of T cells, i.e. a minimal status of oxidative stress, is necessary to trigger cellular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Solano
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraquay, Argentina
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Kasperska-Zajac A, Brzoza Z, Rogala B. Dehydroepiandrosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate in atopic allergy and chronic urticaria. Inflammation 2008; 31:141-5. [PMID: 18288594 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-008-9059-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2007] [Accepted: 01/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The increasing amounts of evidence prove that sex hormones modulate different cells function, including mast cells and lymphocytes. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate ester (DHEA-S) are both the secretory products of adrenal glands and the most abundant hormones in the systemic circulation of humans, converted then into androgens and estrogens in the periphery. DHEA may affect production of Th1 and Th2- associated cytokines, suggesting their significance in diseases where imbalanced lymphocyte activity plays the essential role, also in atopic diseases. Reduced circulating concentration of these androgens has been demonstrated in patients with immune-inflammatory diseases, including atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome and asthma. It is unknown however, whether such changes contribute in any way to etiopathogenesis of the disorders, or are merely their consequences. Chronic urticaria, not included in the atopic triad, is a mast cell-dependent disease characterised by activation of autoimmune and inflammatory processes responding to different factors. Alterations in the immune-neuro-endocrine milieu may contribute to the development of the disease. It has been demonstrated that DHEA-S concentration is significantly lower in the peripheral circulation of patients suffering from chronic urticaria, as compared with healthy subjects. On one hand, this reflects some changes in hormonal homeostasis in the course of urticarial processes, yet on the other, suggests some possible role for this hormone in pathophysiology of the disease. In this brief review we present the available data on DHEA-S involvement in events associated with atopic allergy as well as chronic urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Kasperska-Zajac
- Clinical Department of Internal Diseases, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
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Oberbeck R, Deckert H, Bangen J, Kobbe P, Schmitz D. Dehydroepiandrosterone: a modulator of cellular immunity and heat shock protein 70 production during polymicrobial sepsis. Intensive Care Med 2007; 33:2207-13. [PMID: 17898998 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-007-0851-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2007] [Accepted: 08/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE DHEA is an immunomodulatory steroid hormone that improves survival during systemic inflammation. A DHEA-induced modulation of heat shock protein response may be an alternative mechanism contributing to the beneficial effects of this hormone. We investigated the effect of DHEA administration on survival, cellular immune functions, and HSP-70 production in septic mice. DESIGN AND SETTING Randomized animal study, level I trauma center, university research laboratory. SUBJECTS Male NMRI mice. INTERVENTIONS Mice were subjected to sham operation (laparotomy, LAP) or sepsis (cecal ligation and puncture, CLP) with or without administration of either saline 0.9% (LAP, CLP) or 20 mg/kg DHEA subcutaneously (LAP/DHEA, CLP/DHEA). Survival was monitored over a 48-h period. Splenocyte apoptosis rate (AnnexinV binding), splenocyte proliferation ([3H]thymidine incorporation), TNF-alpha plasma concentration (ELISA), and HSP-70 concentration (ELISA) in tissue extracts from liver, lung, and spleen were monitored 48 h after onset of sepsis. RESULTS DHEA administration improved the survival of septic mice (78% vs. 50%). This effect was paralleled by increased splenocyte proliferation, decreased cellular apoptosis rate of splenocytes, and attenuation of TNF-alpha release. Furthermore, an increased HSP-70 concentration was observed in lungs and spleens of DHEA-treated septic animals. CONCLUSIONS DHEA-treatment decreased the mortality rate of septic mice. This was accompanied by improved cellular immune functions and an augmented heat shock response (HSP-70) of lungs and spleens. Further studies are required to demonstrate a direct relationship between the improved survival and the observed alterations in the immune system in DHEA-treated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiner Oberbeck
- Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospital of Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
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Androstenetriol Immunomodulation Improves Survival in a Severe Trauma Hemorrhage Shock Model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 63:662-9. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e31802e70d9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Kaufmann I, Eisner C, Richter P, Huge V, Beyer A, Chouker A, Schelling G, Thiel M. Lymphocyte subsets and the role of TH1/TH2 balance in stressed chronic pain patients. Neuroimmunomodulation 2007; 14:272-80. [PMID: 18239379 DOI: 10.1159/000115041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and fibromyalgia (FM) are chronic pain syndromes occurring in highly stressed individuals. Despite the known connection between the nervous system and immune cells, information on distribution of lymphocyte subsets under stress and pain conditions is limited. METHODS We performed a comparative study in 15 patients with CRPS type I, 22 patients with FM and 37 age- and sex-matched healthy controls and investigated the influence of pain and stress on lymphocyte number, subpopulations and the Th1/Th2 cytokine ratio in T lymphocytes. RESULTS Lymphocyte numbers did not differ between groups. Quantitative analyses of lymphocyte subpopulations showed a significant reduction of cytotoxic CD8+ lymphocytes in both CRPS (p < 0.01) and FM (p < 0.05) patients as compared with healthy controls. Additionally, CRPS patients were characterized by a lower percentage of IL-2-producing T cell subpopulations reflecting a diminished Th1 response in contrast to no changes in the Th2 cytokine profile. CONCLUSIONS Future studies are warranted to answer whether such immunological changes play a pathogenetic role in CRPS and FM or merely reflect the consequences of a pain-induced neurohumoral stress response, and whether they contribute to immunosuppression in stressed chronic pain patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Kaufmann
- Department of Anesthesiology, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
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