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Duan J, He XH, Li SJ, Xu HE. Cryo-electron microscopy for GPCR research and drug discovery in endocrinology and metabolism. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:349-365. [PMID: 38424377 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00957-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors, with many GPCRs having crucial roles in endocrinology and metabolism. Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has revolutionized the field of structural biology, particularly regarding GPCRs, over the past decade. Since the first pair of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM were published in 2017, the number of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM has surpassed the number resolved by X-ray crystallography by 30%, reaching >650, and the number has doubled every ~0.63 years for the past 6 years. At this pace, it is predicted that the structure of 90% of all human GPCRs will be completed within the next 5-7 years. This Review highlights the general structural features and principles that guide GPCR ligand recognition, receptor activation, G protein coupling, arrestin recruitment and regulation by GPCR kinases. The Review also highlights the diversity of GPCR allosteric binding sites and how allosteric ligands could dictate biased signalling that is selective for a G protein pathway or an arrestin pathway. Finally, the authors use the examples of glycoprotein hormone receptors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor to illustrate the effect of cryo-EM on understanding GPCR biology in endocrinology and metabolism, as well as on GPCR-related endocrine diseases and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Duan
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Xin-Heng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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2
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Tang D, Song X, Du Y, Wang J, Lei Y, Chen B. Development of a reporter gene-based assay for the bioactivity determination of rhLH pharmaceutical products. Anal Biochem 2024; 686:115413. [PMID: 38040174 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2023.115413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
To establish an in vitro biological activity detection method for luteinizing hormone (LH), the hLHCGR-CREB-HEK293 cell line was constructed to stably express human luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (hLHCGR). After optimization, the rhLH starting working concentration was 800 mIU/mL with 4-fold serial dilutions, 10 concentrations and an incubation time of 5 h. The method was confirmed to be highly specific, with good accuracy, precision and linearity, meeting the needs of process research and release testing, and can be used as a routine detection method for LH biological activity. With the increasing demand for research and development of rhLH biologically similar drugs, establishing a stable and simple activity assay method to evaluate the biological activity of rhLH can provide technical support for quality control of rhLH products and powerful tools for comparability research of similar products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defang Tang
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Xiufang Song
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yanjiao Du
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yuqing Lei
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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3
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Norris AC, Yazlovitskaya EM, Yang TS, Mansueto A, Stafford JM, Graham TR. ATP10A deficiency results in male-specific infertility in mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1310593. [PMID: 38415274 PMCID: PMC10896839 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1310593] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Over 8% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility and nearly half of these cases are due to male-specific issues where the underlying cause is often unknown. Therefore, discovery of new genetic factors contributing to male-specific infertility in model organisms can enhance our understanding of the etiology of this disorder. Here we show that murine ATP10A, a phospholipid flippase, is highly expressed in male reproductive organs, specifically the testes and vas deferens. Therefore, we tested the influence of ATP10A on reproduction by examining fertility of Atp10A knockout mice. Our findings reveal that Atp10A deficiency leads to male-specific infertility, but does not perturb fertility in the females. The Atp10A deficient male mice exhibit smaller testes, reduced sperm count (oligozoospermia) and lower sperm motility (asthenozoospermia). Additionally, Atp10A deficient mice display testes and vas deferens histopathological abnormalities, as well as altered total and relative amounts of hormones associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Surprisingly, circulating testosterone is elevated 2-fold in the Atp10A knockout mice while luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, and inhibin B levels were not significantly different from WT littermates. The knockout mice also exhibit elevated levels of gonadotropin receptors and alterations to ERK, p38 MAPK, Akt, and cPLA2-dependent signaling in the testes. Atp10A was knocked out in the C57BL/6J background, which also carries an inactivating nonsense mutation in the closely related lipid flippase, Atp10D. We have corrected the Atp10D nonsense mutation using CRISPR/Cas9 and determined that loss of Atp10A alone is sufficient to cause infertility in male mice. Collectively, these findings highlight the critical role of ATP10A in male fertility in mice and provide valuable insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana C Norris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Tzushan Sharon Yang
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Alex Mansueto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - John M Stafford
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Todd R Graham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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4
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Egbert JR, Silbern I, Uliasz TF, Lowther KM, Yee SP, Urlaub H, Jaffe LA. Phosphatases modified by LH signaling in ovarian follicles: testing their role in regulating the NPR2 guanylyl cyclase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.12.544636. [PMID: 37333193 PMCID: PMC10274890 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.12.544636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
In response to luteinizing hormone, multiple proteins in rat and mouse granulosa cells are rapidly dephosphorylated, but the responsible phosphatases remain to be identified. Because the phosphorylation state of phosphatases can regulate their interaction with substrates, we searched for phosphatases that might function in LH signaling by using quantitative mass spectrometry. We identified all proteins in rat ovarian follicles whose phosphorylation state changed detectably in response to a 30-minute exposure to LH, and within this list, identified protein phosphatases or phosphatase regulatory subunits that showed changes in phosphorylation. Phosphatases in the PPP family were of particular interest because of their requirement for dephosphorylating the natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2) guanylyl cyclase in the granulosa cells, which triggers oocyte meiotic resumption. Among the PPP family regulatory subunits, PPP1R12A and PPP2R5D showed the largest increases in phosphorylation, with 4-10 fold increases in signal intensity on several sites. Although follicles from mice in which these phosphorylations were prevented by serine-to-alanine mutations in either Ppp1r12a or Ppp2r5d showed normal LH-induced NPR2 dephosphorylation, these regulatory subunits and others could act redundantly to dephosphorylate NPR2. Our identification of phosphatases and other proteins whose phosphorylation state is rapidly modified by LH provides clues about multiple signaling pathways in ovarian follicles. Summary sentence Quantitative mass spectrometric analysis of phosphatases whose phosphorylation state is rapidly modified by luteinizing hormone provides clues about how LH signaling dephosphorylates NPR2 as well as a resource for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy R. Egbert
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
| | - Ivan Silbern
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Tracy F. Uliasz
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
| | - Katie M. Lowther
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
- Center for Mouse Genome Modification, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
| | - Siu-Pok Yee
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
- Center for Mouse Genome Modification, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
| | - Henning Urlaub
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Laurinda A. Jaffe
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT 06030 USA
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Meinecke B, Meinecke-Tillmann S. Lab partners: oocytes, embryos and company. A personal view on aspects of oocyte maturation and the development of monozygotic twins. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230049. [PMID: 37547564 PMCID: PMC10399133 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review addresses the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo, and is intended to highlight the underlying principle of the "nature versus/and nurture" question. Given the diversity in mammalian oocyte maturation, this review will not be comprehensive but instead will focus on the porcine oocyte. Historically, oogenesis was seen as the development of a passive cell nursed and determined by its somatic compartment. Currently, the advanced analysis of the cross-talk between the maternal environment and the oocyte shows a more balanced relationship: Granulosa cells nurse the oocyte, whereas the latter secretes diffusible factors that regulate proliferation and differentiation of the granulosa cells. Signal molecules of the granulosa cells either prevent the precocious initiation of meiotic maturation or enable oocyte maturation following hormonal stimulation. A similar question emerges in research on monozygotic twins or multiples: In Greek and medieval times, twins were not seen as the result of the common course of nature but were classified as faults. This seems still valid today for the rare and until now mainly unknown genesis of facultative monozygotic twins in mammals. Monozygotic twins are unique subjects for studies of the conceptus-maternal dialogue, the intra-pair similarity and dissimilarity, and the elucidation of the interplay between nature and nurture. In the course of in vivo collections of preimplantation sheep embryos and experiments on embryo splitting and other microsurgical interventions we recorded observations on double blastocysts within a single zona pellucida, double inner cell masses in zona-enclosed blastocysts and double germinal discs in elongating embryos. On the basis of these observations we add some pieces to the puzzle of the post-zygotic genesis of monozygotic twins and on maternal influences on the developing conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burkhard Meinecke
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Ambulatorische und Geburtshilfliche Veterinärklinik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Meinecke-Tillmann
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Institut für Tierzucht und Haustiergenetik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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6
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Lazzaretti C, Simoni M, Casarini L, Paradiso E. Allosteric modulation of gonadotropin receptors. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1179079. [PMID: 37305033 PMCID: PMC10248450 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1179079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins regulate reproductive functions by binding to G protein-coupled receptors (FSHR and LHCGR) expressed in the gonads. They activate multiple, cell-specific signalling pathways, consisting of ligand-dependent intracellular events. Signalling cascades may be modulated by synthetic compounds which bind allosteric sites of FSHR and LHCGR or by membrane receptor interactions. Despite the hormone binding to the orthosteric site, allosteric ligands, and receptor heteromerizations may reshape intracellular signalling pattern. These molecules act as positive, negative, or neutral allosteric modulators, as well as non-competitive or inverse agonist ligands, providing a set of new compounds of a different nature and with unique pharmacological characteristics. Gonadotropin receptor allosteric modulation is gathering increasing interest from the scientific community and may be potentially exploited for clinical purposes. This review summarizes the current knowledge on gonadotropin receptor allosteric modulation and their potential, clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Baggiovara Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Baggiovara Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Baggiovara Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Baggiovara Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Baggiovara Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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7
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Takahashi T, Ogiwara K. cAMP signaling in ovarian physiology in teleosts: A review. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110499. [PMID: 36273754 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110499] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian function in teleosts, like in other vertebrates, is regulated by two distinct gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Gonadotropin effects are mediated by membrane-bound G protein-coupled receptors localized on the surface of follicle cells. Gonadotropin receptor activation results in increased intracellular cAMP, the most important second cellular signaling molecule. FSH stimulation induces the production of 17β-estradiol in the cells of growing follicles to promote vitellogenesis in oocytes. In contrast, in response to LH, fully grown post-vitellogenic follicles gain the ability to synthesize maturation-inducing steroids, which induce meiotic resumption and ovulation. All these events were induced downstream of cAMP. In this review, we summarize studies addressing the role of the cAMP pathway in gonadotropin-induced processes in teleost ovarian follicles. Furthermore, we discuss future problems concerning cAMP signaling in relation to teleost ovarian function and the differences and similarities in the gonadotropin-induced cAMP signaling pathways between mammals and teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Katsueki Ogiwara
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.
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8
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Na R, Zeng Y, Han Y, Liu C, Yang B, He Y. Identification of differentially expressed microRNAs in ovulatory and subordinate follicles in Dazu black goats. Anim Biotechnol 2022; 33:1753-1759. [PMID: 33724168 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1895185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
How multiple ovulations happen in prolific goats is still unknown even though studies on ovarian physiology and folliculogenesis have made extensive progress. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous regulatory factors and regulate structural gene expression mainly at the post-transcriptional level. In this study, in the follicular phase, six large follicles were collected from prolific Dazu black goat and used to generate RNA libraries for RNA sequencing. Based on the litter size and average number of ovulatory follicles in Dazu black goats, the largest three follicles were sorted as ovulatory follicles, and the remaining as subordinate ones. In total, 418 known miRNAs and 110 novel miRNAs were found, and the expression of six randomly selected miRNAs was validated by quantitative PCR analysis. Nine miRNAs were differently expressed between the ovulatory and subordinate follicles (p < 0.01). Chi-miR-582-5p, novel-130, chi-miR-214-3p, and chi-miR-500-5p were upregulated in the ovulatory group, and chi-miR-383, chi-miR-130b-5p, chi-miR-92a-3p, chi-miR-125b-5p, and novel-9 were downregulated in the same group. Chi-miR-130b-5p and chi-miR-214-3p were predicted to target at LHR (XM_013967581.1), GDF9 (NM_001285708.1), BMP15 (NM_001285588.1), and CYP19A1 (XM_013967046.1). In conclusion, nine miRNAs were differently expressed between ovulatory and subordinate follicles, and chi-miR-130b-5p and chi-miR-214-3p were predicted to regulate the expression of genes involved in gonadotropin hormone signaling and oocyte-derived growth factors. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risu Na
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanguo Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chengli Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Baigao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongmeng He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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9
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Johnson GP, Onabanjo CGA, Hardy K, Butnev VY, Bousfield GR, Jonas KC. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Glycosylation Variants Distinctly Modulate Pre-antral Follicle Growth and Survival. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6750033. [PMID: 36201606 PMCID: PMC9598563 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a key endocrine regulator of ovarian function. FSH is secreted as 2 macroglycosylation variants: partially glycosylated FSH (FSH21/18) and fully glycosylated FSH (FSH24). FSH21/18 is more potent than FSH24 at binding to and activating the FSH receptor (R). The ratio of FSH21/18:FSH24 has been shown to change with age, with FSH21/18 predominant at reproductive prime, and FSH24 predominant during perimenopause/menopause. How these FSH glycosylation variants modulate ovarian follicle functions remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of FSH glycosylation variants of pre-antral follicle function. Pre-antral follicles were isolated from 3- to 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice and treated ±10 ng/mL FSH21/18, FSH24, a ratio of 80:20 FSH21/18:FSH24 (to mimic reproductive prime), 50:50 FSH21/18:FSH24 (perimenopause), or 20:80 FSH21/18:FSH24 (menopause) for up to 96 hours. FSH21/18 and 80:20 FSH21/18:FSH24 increased follicle growth, in comparison with control, contrasting with FSH24 and 20:80 FSH21/18:FSH24. Survival rates were decreased in follicles treated with FSH24 or 20:80 FSH21/18:FSH24, with follicles undergoing basement membrane rupture and oocyte extrusion, increased Caspase3 gene and protein expression, and decreased markers of cell proliferation in FSH24 or 20:80 FSH21/18:FSH24-treated follicles. Moreover, this correlated with differential regulation of key genes modulating follicular functions. Pharmacological inhibitors of key FSH signal pathways suggests FSH21/18 and FSH24 initiate different FSHR signal pathway activation, which may determine their differential effects on follicle growth and survival. These data suggest that the nature of FSH glycosylation modulates the follicular cellular environment to regulate follicle growth and survival and may underpin the increasing ovarian resistance to FSH observed during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian P Johnson
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Kings College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Caitlan G A Onabanjo
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Kings College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Kate Hardy
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Viktor Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - Kim C Jonas
- Correspondence: Kim C. Jonas, MD, PhD, Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Kings College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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10
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Mann ON, Kong CS, Lucas ES, Brosens JJ, Hanyaloglu AC, Brighton PJ. Expression and function of the luteinizing hormone choriogonadotropin receptor in human endometrial stromal cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8624. [PMID: 35597810 PMCID: PMC9124191 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12495-9] [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: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The human luteinising hormone choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) is a G-protein coupled receptor activated by both human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and luteinizing hormone (LH), two structurally related gonadotropins with essential roles in ovulation and maintenance of the corpus luteum. LHCGR expression predominates in ovarian tissues where it elicits functional responses through cyclic adenosine mononucleotide (cAMP), Ca2+ and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signalling. LHCGR expression has also been localized to the human endometrium, with purported roles in decidualization and implantation. However, these observations are contentious. In this investigation, transcripts encoding LHCGR were undetectable in bulk RNA sequencing datasets from whole cycling endometrial tissue and cultured human endometrial stromal cells (EnSC). However, analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data revealed cell-to-cell transcriptional heterogeneity, and we identified a small subpopulation of stromal cells with detectable LHCGR transcripts. In HEK-293 cells expressing recombinant LHCGR, both hCG and LH elicited robust cAMP, Ca2+ and ERK signals that were absent in wild-type HEK-293 cells. However, none of these responses were recapitulated in primary EnSC cultures. In addition, proliferation, viability and decidual transformation of EnSC were refractory to both hCG and LH, irrespective of treatment to induce differentiation. Although we challenge the assertion that LHCGR is expressed at a functionally active level in the human endometrium, the discovery of a discrete subpopulation of EnSC that express LHCGR transcripts may plausibly account for the conflicting evidence in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- O N Mann
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
| | - C-S Kong
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
| | - E S Lucas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK.,Centre for Early Life, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - J J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK.,Centre for Early Life, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.,Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
| | - A C Hanyaloglu
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - P J Brighton
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK.
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11
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Hua G, George JW, Clark KL, Jonas KC, Johnson GP, Southekal S, Guda C, Hou X, Blum HR, Eudy J, Butnev VY, Brown AR, Katta S, May JV, Bousfield GR, Davis JS. Hypo-glycosylated hFSH drives ovarian follicular development more efficiently than fully-glycosylated hFSH: enhanced transcription and PI3K and MAPK signaling. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1891-1906. [PMID: 34059912 PMCID: PMC8213452 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does hypo-glycosylated human recombinant FSH (hFSH18/21) have greater in vivo bioactivity that drives follicle development in vivo compared to fully-glycosylated human recombinant FSH (hFSH24)? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared with fully-glycosylated hFSH, hypo-glycosylated hFSH has greater bioactivity, enabling greater follicular health and growth in vivo, with enhanced transcriptional activity, greater activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and elevated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Glycosylation of FSH is necessary for FSH to effectively activate the FSH receptor (FSHR) and promote preantral follicular growth and formation of antral follicles. In vitro studies demonstrate that compared to fully-glycosylated recombinant human FSH, hypo-glycosylated FSH has greater activity in receptor binding studies, and more effectively stimulates the PKA pathway and steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross-sectional study evaluating the actions of purified recombinant human FSH glycoforms on parameters of follicular development, gene expression and cell signaling in immature postnatal day (PND) 17 female CD-1 mice. To stimulate follicle development in vivo, PND 17 female CD-1 mice (n = 8-10/group) were treated with PBS (150 µl), hFSH18/21 (1 µg/150 µl PBS) or hFSH24 (1 µg/150 µl PBS) by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) twice daily (8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.) for 2 days. Follicle numbers, serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol levels, and follicle health were quantified. PND 17 female CD-1 mice were also treated acutely (2 h) in vivo with PBS, hFSH18/21 (1 µg) or hFSH24 (1 µg) (n = 3-4/group). One ovary from each mouse was processed for RNA sequencing analysis and the other ovary processed for signal transduction analysis. An in vitro ovary culture system was used to confirm the relative signaling pathways. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The purity of different recombinant hFSH glycoforms was analyzed using an automated western blot system. Follicle numbers were determined by counting serial sections of the mouse ovary. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine growth and apoptosis markers related with follicle health. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics were used to identify pathways and processes associated with gene expression profiles induced by acute FSH glycoform treatment. Analysis of RTKs was used to determine potential FSH downstream signaling pathways in vivo. Western blot and in vitro ovarian culture system were used to validate the relative signaling pathways. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Our present study shows that both hypo- and fully-glycosylated recombinant human FSH can drive follicular growth in vivo. However, hFSH18/21 promoted development of significantly more large antral follicles compared to hFSH24 (P < 0.01). In addition, compared with hFSH24, hFSH18/21 also promoted greater indices of follicular health, as defined by lower BAX/BCL2 ratios and reduced cleaved Caspase 3. Following acute in vivo treatment with FSH glycoforms RNA-sequencing data revealed that both FSH glycoforms rapidly induced ovarian transcription in vivo, but hypo-glycosylated FSH more robustly stimulated Gαs and cAMP-mediated signaling and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. Moreover, hFSH18/21 treatment induced significantly greater activation of RTKs, PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signaling compared to hFSH24. FSH-induced indices of follicle growth in vitro were blocked by inhibition of PI3K and MAPK. LARGE SCALE DATA RNA sequencing of mouse ovaries. Data will be shared upon reasonable request to the corresponding author. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The observations that hFSH glycoforms have different bioactivities in the present study employing a mouse model of follicle development should be verified in nonhuman primates. The gene expression studies reflect transcriptomes of whole ovaries. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Commercially prepared recombinant human FSH used for ovarian stimulation in human ART is fully-glycosylated FSH. Our findings that hypo-glycosylated hFSH has greater bioactivity enabling greater follicular health and growth without exaggerated estradiol production in vivo, demonstrate the potential for its development for application in human ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by NIH 1P01 AG029531, NIH 1R01 HD 092263, VA I01 BX004272, and the Olson Center for Women's Health. JSD is the recipient of a VA Senior Research Career Scientist Award (1IK6 BX005797). This work was also partially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 31872352). The authors declared there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Hua
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jitu W George
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kendra L Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kim C Jonas
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Gillian P Johnson
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Siddesh Southekal
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Xiaoying Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Haley R Blum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - James Eudy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Viktor Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Alan R Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Sahithi Katta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Jeffrey V May
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
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Clark ZL, Thakur M, Leach RE, Ireland JJ. FSH dose is negatively correlated with number of oocytes retrieved: analysis of a data set with ~650,000 ART cycles that previously identified an inverse relationship between FSH dose and live birth rate. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1787-1797. [PMID: 33834326 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02179-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether total FSH dose was negatively correlated with number of oocytes retrieved in a large data set where previously, a negative correlation between FSH dose and live birth rate was identified. METHODS Data from 650,637 fresh autologous in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles reported to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology between 2004 and 2012 were included. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine if the relationship between total FSH dose used during ART with number of oocytes retrieved was impacted by the patient's health prognosis, age, BMI, ovarian stimulation protocol, or infertility diagnosis. RESULTS The number of oocytes retrieved was negatively correlated with FSH dose (P < 0.0001). Regardless of patient prognosis, age, BMI, ovarian stimulation protocol, and infertility diagnosis, the highest number of oocytes retrieved was in the 1001-2000 IU FSH group, and was 36-51% lower in the > 5000 IU compared with the optimal, 1001-2000 IU, FSH groups. Overall, ~80% of patients received FSH doses outside of the optimal FSH dose. Moreover, 61% of good prognosis patients (excludes individuals likely prescribed higher FSH doses) received doses exceeding the optimal dose range. CONCLUSION The inverse relationship between FSH dose and the number of oocytes retrieved independent of patient age or health implies that excessive FSH doses during ART may be detrimental to oocyte retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaramasina L Clark
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.,Present address: School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Mili Thakur
- Reproductive Genomics Program, The Fertility Center, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Spectrum Health Medical Group, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Richard E Leach
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Spectrum Health Medical Group, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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