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Cignarella A, Bolego C, Barton M. Sex and sex steroids as determinants of cardiovascular risk. Steroids 2024; 206:109423. [PMID: 38631602 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2024.109423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
There are considerable sex differences regarding the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke, as well as chronic renal disease. Women are largely protected from these conditions prior to menopause, and the risk increases following cessation of endogenous estrogen production or after surgical menopause. Cardiovascular diseases in women generally begin to occur at a later age than in men (on average with a delay of 10 years). Cessation of estrogen production also impacts metabolism, increasing the risk of developing obesity and diabetes. In middle-aged individuals, hypertension develops earlier and faster in women than in men, and smoking increases cardiovascular risk to a greater degree in women than it does in men. It is not only estrogen that affects female cardiovascular health and plays a protective role until menopause: other sex hormones such as progesterone and androgen hormones generate a complex balance that differentiates heart and blood vessel function in women compared to men. Estrogens improve vasodilation of epicardial coronary arteries and the coronary microvasculature by augmenting the release of vasodilating factors such as nitric oxide and prostacyclin, which are mechanisms of coronary vasodilatation that are more pronounced in women compared to men. Estrogens are also powerful inhibitors of inflammation, which in part explains their protective effects on CVD and chronic renal disease. Emerging evidence suggests that sex chromosomes also play a significant role in shaping cardiovascular risk. The cardiovascular protection conferred by endogenous estrogens may be extended by hormone therapy, especially using bioidentical hormones and starting treatment early after menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Bolego
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland; Andreas Grüntzig Foundation, Zürich, Switzerland.
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2
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Hall KA, Filardo EJ. The G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER): A Critical Therapeutic Target for Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2460. [PMID: 37887304 PMCID: PMC10605794 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, with increasing concern regarding the overall rising incidence of disease and exposure to environmental estrogens. Estrogens, both endogenous and environmental, manifest their actions through intracellular and plasma membrane receptors, named ERα, ERβ, and GPER. Collectively, they act to promote a broad transcriptional response that is mediated through multiple regulatory enhancers, including estrogen response elements (EREs), serum response elements (SREs), and cyclic AMP response elements (CREs). Yet, the design and rational assignment of antiestrogen therapy for breast cancer has strictly relied upon an endogenous estrogen-ER binary rubric that does not account for environmental estrogens or GPER. New endocrine therapies have focused on the development of drugs that degrade ER via ER complex destabilization or direct enzymatic ubiquitination. However, these new approaches do not broadly treat all cancer-involved receptors, including GPER. The latter is concerning since GPER is directly associated with tumor size, distant metastases, cancer stem cell activity, and endocrine resistance, indicating the importance of targeting this receptor to achieve a more complete therapeutic response. This review focuses on the critical importance and value of GPER-targeted therapeutics as part of a more holistic approach to the treatment of estrogen-driven malignancies.
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Chen X, Bing J, Lu S, Lin S, Li H, Du S, Liu J, Xi C, Zhang X, Zeng S. Notch1 is involved in cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation in the HVC of zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). Behav Brain Res 2023; 452:114564. [PMID: 37459956 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114564] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Significant sex differences are found in songbirds' song control nuclei and their controlled song behaviors. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we explored the role of Notch1 during the development of the high vocal centre (HVC) and song learning in zebra finch. Our study first found that Notch1 positive cells were distributed in HVC with female-biased densities at posthatching day (PHD) 15, but male-biased at PHD 45 and adult. There were about 60 putative oestrogen-responsive elements within 2.5 kb upstream of Notch1, and Notch1 mRNA in the explants that contained the developing male HVC was significantly increased after estrogen addition into the cultured medium for 48 h. After injecting Notch1-interfering lentivirus into the male or female HVC at PHD 15, cell proliferation was significantly promoted in the ventricle zone overlying the HVC at PHD 23. In addition, neuronal differentiation towards Hu+ /BrdU+ at PHD 31, mature neurons (NeuN+/BrdU+) including those projecting to RA in HVC and the sizes of HVC and RA at adult increased significantly after Notch1-interfering lentiviruses were injected into the male HVC at PHD 15. However, the above measurements decreased, following the injection of the lentiviruses expressing Notch intracellular domain (NICD). Finally, the repeat numbers of syllables 'b' or 'c' of learned songs changed after the injection of Notch1-interfering or NICD-expressing lentiviruses into the HVC at PHD15. Our study suggests that Notch1 is related to the development of HVC and song learning in the zebra finch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoning Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jie Bing
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Shan Lu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Shiying Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Hongyang Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Sanyan Du
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Chao Xi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xinwen Zhang
- Hainan Instistute of Science and Technology, Haikou 571126, China; College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China.
| | - Shaoju Zeng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
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Kawachi A, Sudo S, Ishida Y, Nakazawa K. Experience of general anesthesia in a patient with menstrual-associated coronary spasm. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7641. [PMID: 37415577 PMCID: PMC10320362 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7641] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary angina due to low estrogen is relatively common around menopause, with almost no reports associated with the menstrual cycle or anesthetic management at younger ages. The patient was a 22-year-old woman who had developed ventricular fibrillation due to coronary spasm, resulting in cardiopulmonary arrest. She was resuscitated, and underwent ICD implantation. As her symptoms appeared at specific times during her menstrual cycle, she was diagnosed as having menstrual-associated coronary spasm, and started taking estrogen/progesterone medication. An endometrial ablation was scheduled for endometrial hyperplasia that was caused by the medicine. The surgery was scheduled in consideration of the patient's menstrual cycle, and general anesthesia was selected as the method of anesthesia. The surgery and perioperative management were uneventful, and her postoperative course was favorable. Our case is the first to our knowledge of general anesthesia performed on a patient with menstrual-associated coronary spasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Kawachi
- Department of AnesthesiologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Saho Sudo
- Department of AnesthesiologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Yusuke Ishida
- Department of AnesthesiologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Koichi Nakazawa
- Department of AnesthesiologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
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Johnson CS, Mermelstein PG. The interaction of membrane estradiol receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors in adaptive and maladaptive estradiol-mediated motivated behaviors in females. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:33-91. [PMID: 36868633 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptors were initially identified as intracellular, ligand-regulated transcription factors that result in genomic change upon ligand binding. However, rapid estrogen receptor signaling initiated outside of the nucleus was also known to occur via mechanisms that were less clear. Recent studies indicate that these traditional receptors, estrogen receptor α and estrogen receptor β, can also be trafficked to act at the surface membrane. Signaling cascades from these membrane-bound estrogen receptors (mERs) can rapidly alter cellular excitability and gene expression, particularly through the phosphorylation of CREB. A principal mechanism of neuronal mER action has been shown to occur through glutamate-independent transactivation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu), which elicits multiple signaling outcomes. The interaction of mERs with mGlu has been shown to be important in many diverse functions in females, including driving motivated behaviors. Experimental evidence suggests that a large part of estradiol-induced neuroplasticity and motivated behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, occurs through estradiol-dependent mER activation of mGlu. Herein we will review signaling through estrogen receptors, both "classical" nuclear receptors and membrane-bound receptors, as well as estradiol signaling through mGlu. We will focus on how the interactions of these receptors and their downstream signaling cascades are involved in driving motivated behaviors in females, discussing a representative adaptive motivated behavior (reproduction) and maladaptive motivated behavior (addiction).
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Johnson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
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Peixoto P, Vieira-Alves I, Couto GK, Lemos VS, Rossoni LV, Bissoli NS, Dos Santos RL. Sex differences in the participation of endothelial mediators and signaling pathways involved in the vasodilator effect of a selective GPER agonist in resistance arteries of gonadectomized Wistar rats. Life Sci 2022; 308:120917. [PMID: 36044974 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120917] [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: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM Endothelial mechanisms underlying the vascular effects of estrogen modulated by the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) are not well understood, especially in gonadal sex hormone deprivation. Thus, we investigated vascular function and endothelial signaling pathways involved in the selective activation of GPER in resistance arteries of gonadectomized rats. METHODS Gonadectomy was performed in Wistar rats of both sexes. After 21 days, the animals were euthanized. Concentration-response curves were obtained by cumulative additions of G-1 in third-order mesenteric arteries. The vasodilatory effects of G-1 were evaluated before and after endothelium removal or incubation with pharmacological inhibitors. Tissue protein expression was measured by western blotting. Assays with 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein diacetate (DAF-FM) and 2',7' dichlorodihydrofluorescein-diacetate (DCF-DA) were performed in the arteries investigated. Immunolocalization was assessed by immunofluorescence. RESULTS G-1 induced partially endothelium-dependent relaxation in both sexes. The three isoforms of the enzyme nitric oxide synthase contributed to the production and release of nitric oxide in both gonadectomized groups, but the role of inducible nitric oxide synthase is more expressive in males. The mechanistic pathway by which endothelial nitric oxide synthase is phosphorylated appears to differ between sexes, with the rapid signaling pathway phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (PI3k-Akt-eNOS) being identified for males and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (MEK-ERK-eNOS) for females. The contribution of hydrogen peroxide as an endothelial relaxation mediator seems to be greater in females. CONCLUSION These results provide new insights into the effects of estrogen-induced responses via GPER on vascular function in gonadal sex hormone deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pollyana Peixoto
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Ildernandes Vieira-Alves
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gisele Kruger Couto
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Virgínia Soares Lemos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Nazaré Souza Bissoli
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Roger Lyrio Dos Santos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil.
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Meyer MR. Chronic Coronary Syndromes in Women: Challenges in Diagnosis and Management. Mayo Clin Proc 2021; 96:1058-1070. [PMID: 33814074 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sex matters in science. This particularly applies to ischemic heart disease, which displays key differences in pathophysiology, presentation, and effectiveness in diagnostic strategies and management between women and men. However, underrepresentation of women in randomized trials has led to an evidence gap in clinical practice. Nevertheless, it has become clear that women present with a higher burden of symptoms and comorbidities, experience worse outcomes, but are less likely to have flow-limiting stenosis in epicardial coronary arteries than men. A major contributor to this paradox is coronary microvascular disease, a heterogeneous disorder with multifactorial etiology that predominantly affects women. There is a significant interplay between coronary microvascular disease, obstructive coronary artery disease, and the cardiovascular risk associated with it, with impaired vasomotor function often preceding the development of advanced atheroma. This novel concept has recently been referred to as chronic coronary syndromes, which better meets the female phenotype of ischemic heart disease, questioning current management recommendations that still largely apply to flow-limiting stenoses in epicardial coronary arteries typically found in men. The goal of this review is to highlight the most recent scientific advances in understanding chronic coronary syndromes in women. It provides practical advice with focus on challenges in diagnosis and management, and discusses perspectives towards the implementation of sex-specific, safer, and more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R Meyer
- Division of Cardiology, Triemli Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland; Division of Gender Medicine, Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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Niță AR, Knock GA, Heads RJ. Signalling mechanisms in the cardiovascular protective effects of estrogen: With a focus on rapid/membrane signalling. Curr Res Physiol 2021; 4:103-118. [PMID: 34746830 PMCID: PMC8562205 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In modern society, cardiovascular disease remains the biggest single threat to life, being responsible for approximately one third of worldwide deaths. Male prevalence is significantly higher than that of women until after menopause, when the prevalence of CVD increases in females until it eventually exceeds that of men. Because of the coincidence of CVD prevalence increasing after menopause, the role of estrogen in the cardiovascular system has been intensively researched during the past two decades in vitro, in vivo and in observational studies. Most of these studies suggested that endogenous estrogen confers cardiovascular protective and anti-inflammatory effects. However, clinical studies of the cardioprotective effects of hormone replacement therapies (HRT) not only failed to produce proof of protective effects, but also revealed the potential harm estrogen could cause. The "critical window of hormone therapy" hypothesis affirms that the moment of its administration is essential for positive treatment outcomes, pre-menopause (3-5 years before menopause) and immediately post menopause being thought to be the most appropriate time for intervention. Since many of the cardioprotective effects of estrogen signaling are mediated by effects on the vasculature, this review aims to discuss the effects of estrogen on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) with a focus on the role of estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ and GPER) in triggering the more recently discovered rapid, or membrane delimited (non-genomic), signaling cascades that are vital for regulating vascular tone, preventing hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Roberta Niță
- School of Bioscience Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, UK
| | - Greg A. Knock
- School of Bioscience Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, UK
- School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Richard J. Heads
- School of Bioscience Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, UK
- Cardiovascular Research Section, King’s BHF Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, UK
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9
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Gersh FL, O'Keefe JH, Lavie CJ. Postmenopausal hormone therapy for cardiovascular health: the evolving data. Heart 2021; 107:1115-1122. [PMID: 33619206 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2019-316323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Postmenopausal (PM) hormone therapy (HT) was extremely popular for years as a treatment for many conditions, including cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) prevention. The adverse results from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) ended the widespread prescriptive use of HT for nearly 20 years. The WHI findings have been broadly and unfairly applied to all hormone formulations, including modern treatments using human-identical hormones. Although CV health is indisputably linked to oestrogen status, HT involving any combination of hormones currently is not recommended for primary or secondary prevention of CVD. In the wake of more positive results from recent studies and re-evaluation of the WHI, HT has re-emerged as an issue for specialists in CVD to discuss with their patients. Rigorous scientific analysis is needed to explain the paradox of cardioprotection conferred by endogenous ovarian hormones with apparent cardiotoxicity inflicted by HT. This review will cover the origins of HT, hormone terminology and function, and key studies that contribute to our current understanding. Based on evolving evidence, if HT is to be used, we propose it be initiated immediately after cessation of ovarian hormone production and dosed as transdermal oestradiol combined with cyclic dosing of human-identical progesterone (P4).
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Affiliation(s)
- Felice L Gersh
- Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Integrative Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - James H O'Keefe
- University of Missouri-Kansas City, Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Carl J Lavie
- Cardiology, John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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FATS regulates polyamine biosynthesis by promoting ODC degradation in an ERβ-dependent manner in non-small-cell lung cancer. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:839. [PMID: 33037185 PMCID: PMC7547721 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03052-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Polyamine biosynthesis is an essential metabolic pathway for cell growth and differentiation in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Fragile-site associated tumour suppressor (FATS) is a novel gene involved in cancer. The results of our previous study showed that FATS-mediated polyubiquitination of p53 promotes the activation of p53 in response to DNA damage; however, little is known about the role of FATS in metabolic reprogramming in NSCLC. In the present study, FATS was observed to be significantly downregulated in NSCLC tissues compared with paired adjacent normal tissues and was associated with the survival of NSCLC patients. We further showed that the presence of the tumour suppressor FATS in NSCLC cells led to apoptosis by inducing pro-death autophagy. In addition, FATS was shown to function as a suppressor of polyamine biosynthesis by inhibiting ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) at the protein and mRNA levels, which was partially dependent on oestrogen receptor (ER). Furthermore, FATS was observed to bind to ERβ and translocate to the cytosol, leading to ODC degradation. The findings of our study demonstrate that FATS plays important roles in polyamine metabolism in NSCLC and provides a new perspective for NSCLC progression.
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Chen Q, Zhang Y, Meng Q, Wang S, Yu X, Cai D, Cheng P, Li Y, Bian H. Liuwei Dihuang prevents postmenopausal atherosclerosis and endothelial cell apoptosis via inhibiting DNMT1-medicated ERα methylation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 252:112531. [PMID: 31926314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The classical and traditional Chinese medicine prescription, Liuwei Dihuang (LWDH), has been commonly used to treat the menopausal syndrome. It has been reported that LWDH could improve estrogen receptor α (ERα) expression to prevent atherosclerosis (AS), while the mechanism of LWDH on regulating ERα expression was still unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY To reveal the mechanism of LWDH on regulating the ERα expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS The protective effect of LWDH on Hcy-induced apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was examined. The expression of ERα and DNA methyltransferases 1 (DNMT1) were detected by Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The methylation rate of the ERα gene was assayed by the bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP). High-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) was applied to determine the level of S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM) and S-Adenosyl homocysteine (SAH). In vivo, the ApoE-/- mice were ovariectomized to establish postmenopausal atherosclerosis (AS) model. RESULTS In vitro study showed that LWDH protects HUVECs from Hcy-induced apoptosis. Treatment with LWDH significantly increased the ERα expression and reduced the methylation rate of the ERα gene by inhibiting the DNMT1 expression. The level of main methyl donor SAM and the ration of SAM/SAH were reduced by LWDH. In vivo, LWDH prevented the formation of plaque and reduced the concentration of Hcy. In addition, LWDH upregulated the ERα expression, as well as inhibiting the expression of DNMT1 in atherosclerotic mice. CONCLUSIONS LWDH exerted protective effects on postmenopausal AS mice, and HUVECs treated with Hcy. LWDH increased of ERα expression via inhibiting DNMT1-dependent ERα methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Qinghai Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Suyun Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Xichao Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Danfeng Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Peng Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yu Li
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Huimin Bian
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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12
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G-Protein–Coupled Estrogen Receptor Agonist G1 Improves Diastolic Function and Attenuates Cardiac Renin–Angiotensin System Activation in Estrogen-Deficient Hypertensive Rats. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2019; 74:443-452. [DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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13
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Xu X, Yan Q, Liu X, Li P, Li X, Chen Y, Simoncini T, Liu J, Zhu D, Fu X. 17β-Estradiol nongenomically induces vascular endothelial H 2S release by promoting phosphorylation of cystathionine γ-lyase. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:15577-15592. [PMID: 31439665 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.008597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen exerts its cardiovascular protective role at least in part by regulating endothelial hydrogen sulfide (H2S) release, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Estrogen exerts genomic effects, i.e. those involving direct binding of the estrogen receptor (ER) to gene promoters in the nucleus, and nongenomic effects, mediated by interactions of the ER with other proteins. Here, using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), immunological detection, MS-based analyses, and cGMP and H2S assays, we show that 17β-estradiol (E2) rapidly enhances endothelial H2S release in a nongenomic manner. We found that E2 induces phosphorylation of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), the key enzyme in vascular endothelial H2S generation. Mechanistically, E2 enhanced the interaction of membrane ERα with the Gα subunit Gαi-2/3, which then transactivated particulate guanylate cyclase-A (pGC-A) to produce cGMP, thereby activating protein kinase G type I (PKG-I). We also found that PKG-Iβ, but not PKG-Iα, interacts with CSE, leading to its phosphorylation, and rapidly induces endothelial H2S release. Furthermore, we report that silencing of either CSE or pGC-A in mice attenuates E2-induced aorta vasodilation. These results provide detailed mechanistic insights into estrogen's nongenomic effects on vascular endothelial H2S release and advance our current understanding of the protective activities of estrogen in the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyan Xu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Qing Yan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xiaoyun Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xiaosa Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Yiwen Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Tommaso Simoncini
- Molecular and Cellular Gynecological Endocrinology Laboratory (MCGEL), Department of Reproductive Medicine and Child Development, University of Pisa, Pisa 56100, Italy
| | - Junxiu Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Dongxing Zhu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China .,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xiaodong Fu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China .,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
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14
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Zhang B, Zhang CG, Ji LH, Zhao G, Wu ZY. Estrogen receptor β selective agonist ameliorates liver cirrhosis in rats by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 33:747-755. [PMID: 28884481 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Revised: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The aim of this study is to explore the roles of estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes and corresponding agonists/antagonists on the development of cirrhosis and activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced cirrhotic ovariectomized rats were administered non-selective ER agonist (β-estradiol, E2), ER selective agonists (ERα agonist, propylpyrazoletriol; ERβ agonist, diarylpropionitrile [DPN]; and G-protein-coupled ER [GPER] agonist, G1), or E2 + ER selective antagonists (ERα antagonist, MPP; ERβ antagonist, PHTPP; and GPER antagonist, G15) for 12 weeks. The expression of the three ER subtypes in livers and HSCs and the effects of the drugs on hepatic fibrosis, isolated HSCs, and uteri were evaluated. RESULTS Selective ER agonists/antagonists had various effects on CCl4 -induced cirrhosis. The cirrhotic rats in the CCl4 + E2, CCl4 + DPN, CCl4 + E2 + MPP, and CCl4 + E2 + G15 groups presented reduced fibrosis scores, compared with those in the CCl4 group. The cirrhotic rats in the E2 + PHTPP group presented increased fibrosis scores that similar to those in the CCl4 group. The ovariectomized rats had enlarged uteri with increased uterus indexes after E2 administration; however, the proliferative effects of E2 were partially blocked by MPP or G15, but not PHTPP. In the in vitro study, DPN attenuated the transformation of quiescent HSCs to activated phenotype, suppressed collagen I, and α-smooth muscle actin expression. DPN also suppressed platelet-derived growth factor-induced proliferation in cultured HSCs, which was reversed by PHTPP. CONCLUSIONS The antifibrogenic effects of estrogen were mediated by ERβ but not ERα or GPER. The ERβ selective agonist exerted a fibrosuppressive effect by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of HSCs, but did not induce uterine hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng-Gang Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin-Hua Ji
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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15
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Boese AC, Kim SC, Yin KJ, Lee JP, Hamblin MH. Sex differences in vascular physiology and pathophysiology: estrogen and androgen signaling in health and disease. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2017. [PMID: 28626075 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00217.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences between women and men are often overlooked and underappreciated when studying the cardiovascular system. It has been long assumed that men and women are physiologically similar, and this notion has resulted in women being clinically evaluated and treated for cardiovascular pathophysiological complications as men. Currently, there is increased recognition of fundamental sex differences in cardiovascular function, anatomy, cell signaling, and pathophysiology. The National Institutes of Health have enacted guidelines expressly to gain knowledge about ways the sexes differ in both normal function and diseases at the various research levels (molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system). Greater understanding of these sex differences will be used to steer future directions in the biomedical sciences and translational and clinical research. This review describes sex-based differences in the physiology and pathophysiology of the vasculature, with a special emphasis on sex steroid receptor (estrogen and androgen receptor) signaling and their potential impact on vascular function in health and diseases (e.g., atherosclerosis, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysms, cerebral aneurysms, and stroke).
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin C Boese
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Seong C Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Ke-Jie Yin
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jean-Pyo Lee
- Department of Neurology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana; and.,Center for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Milton H Hamblin
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana;
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16
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Morselli E, Santos RS, Criollo A, Nelson MD, Palmer BF, Clegg DJ. The effects of oestrogens and their receptors on cardiometabolic health. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2017; 13:352-364. [PMID: 28304393 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2017.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of mortality in developed countries. The incidence of CVD is sexually dimorphic, and research has focused on the contribution of sex steroids to the development and progression of the cardiometabolic syndrome, which is defined as a clustering of interrelated risk factors that promote the development of atherosclerosis (which can lead to CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data are inconclusive as to how sex steroids and their respective receptors increase or suppress the risk of developing the cardiometabolic syndrome and thus CVD. In this Review, we discuss the potential role, or roles, of sex hormones in cardiometabolic health by first focusing on the influence of oestrogens and their receptors on the risk of developing cardiometabolic syndrome and CVD. We also highlight what is known about testosterone and its potential role in protecting against the development of the cardiometabolic syndrome and CVD. Given the inconclusive nature of the data regarding the direct effects of each sex hormone, we advocate and highlight the importance of studying the relative levels and the ratio of sex hormones to each other, as well as the use of cross sex hormone therapy and its effect on cardiometabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Morselli
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Roberta S Santos
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas, Campinas 1, 3083-864, Brazil
- Cedars-Sinai Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute, Department of Biomedical Research, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Alfredo Criollo
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS) and Center for Molecular Studies of the Cell (CEMC), Santiago 8380000, Chile
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Odontológicas (ICOD), Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380492, Chile
| | - Michael D Nelson
- Applied Physiology and Advanced Imaging Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Texas at Arlington, Texas 76019, USA
| | - Biff F Palmer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Deborah J Clegg
- Cedars-Sinai Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute, Department of Biomedical Research, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
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17
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Araujo PX, Costa TJ, Echem C, Aparecida de Oliveira M, Santos-Eichler RA, Colli LG, Jiménez-Altayó F, Vila E, Akamine EH, Dantas AP, Ceravolo GS, de Carvalho MHC. Treatment with Standard and Low Dose of Conjugated Equine Estrogen Differentially Modulates Estrogen Receptor Expression and Response to Angiotensin II in Mesenteric Venular Bed of Surgically Postmenopausal Hypertensive Rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 362:98-107. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.240465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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18
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Meyer MR, Barton M. Estrogens and Coronary Artery Disease: New Clinical Perspectives. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 77:307-60. [PMID: 27451102 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In premenopausal women, endogenous estrogens are associated with reduced prevalence of arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Clinical trials conducted in the 1990s such as HERS, WHI, and WISDOM have shown that postmenopausal treatment with horse hormone mixtures (so-called conjugated equine estrogens) and synthetic progestins adversely affects female cardiovascular health. Our understanding of rapid (nongenomic) and chronic (genomic) estrogen signaling has since advanced considerably, including identification of a new G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), which like the "classical" receptors ERα and ERβ is highly abundant in the cardiovascular system. Here, we discuss the role of estrogen receptors in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease and review natural and synthetic ligands of estrogen receptors as well as their effects in physiology, on cardiovascular risk factors, and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Data from preclinical and clinical studies using nonselective compounds activating GPER, which include selective estrogen receptor modulators such as tamoxifen or raloxifene, selective estrogen receptor downregulators such as Faslodex™ (fulvestrant/ICI 182,780), vitamin B3 (niacin), green tea catechins, and soy flavonoids such as genistein or resveratrol, strongly suggest that activation of GPER may afford therapeutic benefit for primary and secondary prevention in patients with or at risk for coronary artery disease. Evidence from preclinical studies suggest similar efficacy profiles for selective small molecule GPER agonists such as G-1 which are devoid of uterotrophic activity. Further clinical research in this area is warranted to provide opportunities for future cardiovascular drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Meyer
- Triemli City Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - M Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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19
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Rather RA, Dhawan V. Genetic markers: Potential candidates for cardiovascular disease. Int J Cardiol 2016; 220:914-23. [PMID: 27416153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.06.251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The effective prevention of cardiovascular disease depends upon the ability to recognize the high-risk individuals at an early stage of the disease or long before the development of adverse events. Evolving technologies in the fields of proteomics, metabolomics, and genomics have played a significant role in the discovery of cardiovascular biomarkers, but so far these methods have achieved the modest success. Hence, there is a crucial need for more reliable, suitable, and lasting diagnostic and therapeutic markers to screen the disease well in time to start the clinical aid to the patients. Gene polymorphisms associated with the cardiovascular disease play a decisive role in the disease onset. Therefore, the genetic marker evaluation to classify high-risk patients from low-risk patients trends an effective approach to patient management and care. Currently, there are no genetic markers available for extensive adoption as risk factors for coronary vascular disease, yet, there are numerous promising, biologically acceptable candidates. Many of these gene biomarkers, alone or in combination, can play an essential role in the prediction of cardiovascular risk. The present review highlights some putative emerging genetic biomarkers that could facilitate more authentic and fast diagnosis of CVD. This review also briefly describes few technological approaches employed in the biomarker search.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyaz Ahmad Rather
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Veena Dhawan
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
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20
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Maekawa H, Serrone JC, Tjahjadi M, Hernesniemi J. RETRACTED ARTICLE: The role of estrogen on the pathology of cerebral aneurysms. Expert Rev Neurother 2016; 16:927-35. [DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2016.1189827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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21
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Muka T, Vargas KG, Jaspers L, Wen KX, Dhana K, Vitezova A, Nano J, Brahimaj A, Colpani V, Bano A, Kraja B, Zaciragic A, Bramer WM, van Dijk GM, Kavousi M, Franco OH. Estrogen receptor β actions in the female cardiovascular system: A systematic review of animal and human studies. Maturitas 2016; 86:28-43. [PMID: 26921926 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Five medical databases were searched for studies that assessed the role of ERβ in the female cardiovascular system and the influence of age and menopause on ERβ functioning. Of 9472 references, 88 studies met our inclusion criteria (71 animal model experimental studies, 15 human model experimental studies and 2 population based studies). ERβ signaling was shown to possess vasodilator and antiangiogenic properties by regulating the activity of nitric oxide, altering membrane ionic permeability in vascular smooth muscle cells, inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation and by regulating adrenergic control of the arteries. Also, a possible protective effect of ERβ signaling against left ventricular hypertrophy and ischemia/reperfusion injury via genomic and non-genomic pathways was suggested in 27 studies. Moreover, 5 studies reported that the vascular effects of ERβ may be vessel specific and may differ by age and menopause status. ERβ seems to possess multiple functions in the female cardiovascular system. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether isoform-selective ERβ-ligands might contribute to cardiovascular disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taulant Muka
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Kris G Vargas
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Loes Jaspers
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ke-xin Wen
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Klodian Dhana
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Vitezova
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jana Nano
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adela Brahimaj
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Veronica Colpani
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arjola Bano
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bledar Kraja
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania; University Clinic of Gastrohepatology, University Hospital Center Mother Teresa, Tirana, Albania
| | - Asija Zaciragic
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gaby M van Dijk
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar H Franco
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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22
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Salerni S, Di Francescomarino S, Cadeddu C, Acquistapace F, Maffei S, Gallina S. The different role of sex hormones on female cardiovascular physiology and function: not only oestrogens. Eur J Clin Invest 2015; 45:634-45. [PMID: 25845675 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human response to different physiologic stimuli and cardiovascular (CV) adaptation to various pathologies seem to be gender specific. Sex-steroid hormones have been postulated as the major contributors towards these sex-related differences. This review will discuss current evidence on gender differences in CV function and remodelling, and will present the different role of the principal sex-steroid hormones on female heart. Starting from a review of sex hormones synthesis, receptors and CV signalling, we will summarize the current knowledge concerning the role of sex hormones on the regulation of our daily activities throughout the life, via the modulation of autonomic nervous system, excitation-contraction coupling pathway and ion channels activity. Many unresolved questions remain even if oestrogen effects on myocardial remodelling and function have been extensively studied. So this work will focus attention also on the controversial and complex relationship existing between androgens, progesterone and female heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Salerni
- Department of Neuroimaging, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Christian Cadeddu
- Department of Cardiovascular and Neurological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Flavio Acquistapace
- Helvetic Confederation IIHM International institute, Cardiologic Medical Center Manno, Lugano, Helvetia
| | - Silvia Maffei
- Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR-Regione Toscana and Institute of Clinical Physiology-CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sabina Gallina
- Department of Neuroimaging, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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23
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Barton M, Prossnitz ER. Emerging roles of GPER in diabetes and atherosclerosis. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2015; 26:185-92. [PMID: 25767029 PMCID: PMC4731095 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a 7-transmembrane receptor implicated in rapid estrogen signaling. Originally cloned from vascular endothelial cells, GPER plays a central role in the regulation of vascular tone and cell growth as well as lipid and glucose homeostasis. This review highlights our knowledge of the physiological and pathophysiological functions of GPER in the pancreas, peripheral and immune tissues, and the arterial vasculature. Recent findings on its roles in obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, including GPER-dependent regulation of lipid metabolism and inflammation, are presented. The therapeutic potential of targeting GPER-dependent pathways in chronic diseases such as coronary artery disease and diabetes and in the context of menopause is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA; UNM Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA.
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24
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Role of G protein-coupled orphan receptors in intestinal inflammation: novel targets in inflammatory bowel diseases. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2015; 21:666-73. [PMID: 25461621 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A large number of proteins were classified into the family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Based on their characteristic serpentine domain, they are called 7 TM receptors. Presently, their ligands and physiological functions remain unknown. In this review, we summarize what is known on these receptors and discuss the potential use of these orphan GPCRs (GPRs) in the induction or maintenance of remission in inflammatory bowel diseases. We focus on GPRs 30, 41, 43, 55, 119, and 120, where scientific evidence supports a potential role in intestinal inflammation.
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25
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Meyer MR, Fredette NC, Howard TA, Hu C, Ramesh C, Daniel C, Amann K, Arterburn JB, Barton M, Prossnitz ER. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor protects from atherosclerosis. Sci Rep 2014; 4:7564. [PMID: 25532911 PMCID: PMC4274506 DOI: 10.1038/srep07564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction in postmenopausal women have been linked to inflammation and reduced nitric oxide (NO) formation. Natural estrogen exerts protective effects on both processes, yet also displays uterotrophic activity. Here, we used genetic and pharmacologic approaches to investigate the role of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in atherosclerosis. In ovary-intact mice, deletion of gper increased atherosclerosis progression, total and LDL cholesterol levels and inflammation while reducing vascular NO bioactivity, effects that were in some cases aggravated by surgical menopause. In human endothelial cells, GPER was expressed on intracellular membranes and mediated eNOS activation and NO formation, partially accounting for estrogen-mediated effects. Chronic treatment with G-1, a synthetic, highly selective small molecule agonist of GPER, reduced postmenopausal atherosclerosis and inflammation without uterotrophic effects. In summary, this study reveals an atheroprotective function of GPER and introduces selective GPER activation as a novel therapeutic approach to inhibit postmenopausal atherosclerosis and inflammation in the absence of uterotrophic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R Meyer
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Natalie C Fredette
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Tamara A Howard
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Chelin Hu
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Chinnasamy Ramesh
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Christoph Daniel
- Pathologisches Institut, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Amann
- Pathologisches Institut, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jeffrey B Arterburn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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26
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Xiang J, Wang Y, Su K, Liu M, Hu PC, Ma T, Li JX, Wei L, Zheng Z, Yang F. Ritonavir binds to and downregulates estrogen receptors: molecular mechanism of promoting early atherosclerosis. Exp Cell Res 2014; 327:318-30. [PMID: 25017101 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogenic actions are closely related to cardiovascular disease. Ritonavir (RTV), a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitor, induces atherosclerosis in an estrogen-related manner. However, how RTV induce pathological phenotypes through estrogen pathway remains unclear. In this study, we found that RTV increases thickness of coronary artery walls of Sprague Dawley rats and plasma free fatty acids (FFA) levels. In addition, RTV could induce foam cell formation, downregulate both estrogen receptor α (ERα) and ERβ expression, upregulate G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) expression, and all of them could be partially blocked by 17β-estradiol (E2), suggesting RTV acts as an antagonist for E2. Computational modeling shows a similar interaction with ERα between RTV and 2-aryl indoles, which are highly subtype-selective ligands for ERα. We also found that RTV directly bound to ERα and selectively inhibited the nuclear localization of ERα, and residue Leu536 in the hydrophobic core of ligand binding domain (LBD) was essential for the interaction with RTV. In addition, RTV did not change the secondary structure of ERα-LBD like E2, which explained how ERα lost the capacity of nuclear translocation under the treatment of RTV. All of the evidences suggest that ritonavir acts as an antagonist for 17β-estradiol in regulating α subtype estrogen receptor function and early events of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xiang
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Ke Su
- Department of Nephrology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Min Liu
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Peng-Chao Hu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Tian Ma
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Jia-Xi Li
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Zhongliang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, PR China.
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China.
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27
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Prossnitz ER, Barton M. Estrogen biology: new insights into GPER function and clinical opportunities. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 389:71-83. [PMID: 24530924 PMCID: PMC4040308 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens play an important role in the regulation of normal physiology, aging and many disease states. Although the nuclear estrogen receptors have classically been described to function as ligand-activated transcription factors mediating genomic effects in hormonally regulated tissues, more recent studies reveal that estrogens also mediate rapid signaling events traditionally associated with G protein-coupled receptors. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER (formerly GPR30) has now become recognized as a major mediator of estrogen's rapid cellular effects throughout the body. With the discovery of selective synthetic ligands for GPER, both agonists and antagonists, as well as the use of GPER knockout mice, significant advances have been made in our understanding of GPER function at the cellular, tissue and organismal levels. In many instances, the protective/beneficial effects of estrogen are mimicked by selective GPER agonism and are absent or reduced in GPER knockout mice, suggesting an essential or at least parallel role for GPER in the actions of estrogen. In this review, we will discuss recent advances and our current understanding of the role of GPER and the activity of clinically used drugs, such as SERMs and SERDs, in physiology and disease. We will also highlight novel opportunities for clinical development towards GPER-targeted therapeutics, for molecular imaging, as well as for theranostic approaches and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNM Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA.
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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Abstract
In view of recent findings on the anatomic heterogeneity of rapid vasodilation via estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent mechanisms, it is obvious that with regard to human physiology and disease much of it is still unknown, and research in this area is urgently needed. This is also important because chronic drug therapy with estrogens in women systemically affects the circulation and may affect certain arterial beds but not others. It is conceivable that the presence of any vascular disease (as was the case for coronary and carotid atherosclerosis in many of the patients in the large randomized controlled trials HERS and WHI) is likely to affect vascular responses to estrogens as well, and that any beneficial effects may be attenuated or even completely lost. Further work is required to decipher the mechanisms of vasodilation brought about by estrogens in humans and experimental animals, whether anatomic heterogeneity exists with regard to vascular beds and individual estrogen receptors, and how vascular disease (atherosclerosis in particular) affects responsiveness. Also, pharmacologcial tools for newly identified ERs are now available. The hypothesis that disease may modify or even abrogate estrogen-dependent or ER-selective vasodilation should also be tested. Finally, given that certain clinically approved drugs such as SERM or SERDs (thought only to block or downregulate nuclear ERs) actually cause vasodilation through GPER and have been shown in recent clinical studies to provide cardiovascular protection in postmenopausal women, we may have to rethink our current understanding, concepts, and strategies of how to interfere with the increased risk of vascular disease in women with estrogen deficiency or after menopause.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Oestrogens are important modulators of lipid metabolism, inflammation and vascular homeostasis. Endogenous oestrogens contribute to the low prevalence of atherosclerotic vascular disease in premenopausal women with intact ovarian function, and cessation of oestrogen production following menopause increases cardiovascular risk. Orally administered oestrogens such as postmenopausal hormone therapy increase HDL and reduce LDL cholesterol levels, and they increase triglyceride levels. Current guidelines do not recommend postmenopausal hormone therapy for cardiovascular prevention. RECENT FINDINGS Recent clinical studies have suggested potential benefits of natural oestrogen or selective oestrogen receptor modulators on cardiovascular outcomes, effects that are associated with lipid profile improvements. In contrast to earlier studies such as the Women's Health Initiative, the Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study or the Estrogen Replacement and Atherosclerosis trial, in which investigators used hormone mixtures derived from horse urine (misleadingly named 'conjugated oestrogens' with unknown activity on oestrogen receptors), triphasic oestrogen therapy started early after menopause as primary prevention study protocol improved outcome. New studies suggest therapeutic potential of natural oestrogens and certain selective oestrogen receptor modulators to reduce coronary artery disease risk in postmenopausal women. SUMMARY Endogenous oestrogens are important regulators of lipid metabolism and inhibit inflammation, vascular cell growth and plaque progression in premenopausal women. The recent trials warrant further studies, which should also determine how much of the potential benefits are due to improvements of lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Villablanca AC, Tetali S, Altman R, Ng KF, Rutledge JC. Testosterone-derived estradiol production by male endothelium is robust and dependent on p450 aromatase via estrogen receptor alpha. SPRINGERPLUS 2013; 2:214. [PMID: 23741647 PMCID: PMC3667361 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-2-214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelium expresses both the estrogen receptors (ERs) α and β, and ERα mediates development of early atherosclerosis in male mice. This process is thought to be testosterone-dependent. We hypothesized that male murine aortic endothelium produces robust levels of estradiol by aromatase conversion of testosterone, and that regulation of this process is mediated by the presence of ERs, primarily ERα. Aortic endothelium was isolated from ERα knockout (ERα -/-) and wild-type (ERα +/+) male mice and treated with testosterone or the 5α reduction product dihydrotestosterone (DHT), with or without the P450 aromatase inhibitor anastrazole, or a non-specific estrogen receptor antagonist. Aromatase gene expression and estradiol production were assayed. Treatment with testosterone, but not DHT, caused increased aromatase expression and estradiol production in ERα +/+ endothelium that was attenuated by disruption of ERα in the ERα -/- group. Anastrazole inhibition of aromatase reduced testosterone-induced aromatase expression and estradiol levels in both ERα -/- and ERα +/+ endothelium. Antagonism of both ERs decreased testosterone-induced aromatase expression in both wild-type and knockout groups. The effects of the receptor antagonist on estradiol production differed between the two groups, however, with a reduction in estradiol release from the ERα +/+ cells and complete abolition of estradiol release from the ERα -/- cells. Thus, estradiol production in vascular endothelium from male mice is robust, depends on the aromatic conversion of testosterone and requires functional ERα to achieve maximal levels of estradiol generation. Local vascular production of aromatase-mediated estradiol in response to circulating testosterone may affect ERα-dependent mechanisms to increase susceptibility to early atheroma formation in male mice. This pathway may have important therapeutic relevance for reducing the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in human males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amparo C Villablanca
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave., TB 172, Davis, CA 95616-8636 USA
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Abstract
Sex differences in the incidence of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension have been reported by epidemiological studies. Previous studies have indicated that estrogen therapy improved hepatic fibrosis, inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells, and reduced portal pressure, whereas the administration of exogenous estrogens resulted in some potential risks, limiting their clinical use. However, the biological actions of estrogens are mediated by three subtypes of estrogen receptors (ERs): ERα, ERβ, and G-protein-coupled ER. These ER subtypes act in distinct ways and exert different biological effects that mediate genomic and nongenomic events, resulting in tissue-specific responses. In addition, active estrogen metabolites, with little or no affinity for ERs, could mediate the fibrosuppressive effect of estrogens through an ER-independent pathway. Taken together, such specific estrogen derivatives as ER selective agonists, or active estrogen metabolites, would provide novel therapeutic opportunities, stratifying this hormonal treatment, thereby reducing undesired side-effects in the treatment of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
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Palmieri D, Perego P, Palombo D. Estrogen Receptor Activation Protects Against TNF-α-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction. Angiology 2013; 65:17-21. [DOI: 10.1177/0003319713477909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Lack of estrogen is a cause of cardiovascular disease in men and postmenopausal women. We examined the effects of estrogen receptor (ERs) activation/inactivation on endothelial cells subjected to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, which is involved in vascular disease pathogenesis. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 9 expression, as well as protein kinase B (PKB) activation were evaluated as markers of endothelial dysfunction. The TNF-α induces eNOS and MMP-9 expression and PKB activation. The ER activation by apigenin, a nonsteroidal compound with estrogen-like activity mediated through ER binding-dependent pathways, counteracts these effects. These effects are reversed by classic (ER-α and ER-β) and nonclassic (G-protein-coupled receptor) ER inhibitors (ICI182 780 and pertussis toxin, respectively). Our data suggest that ER activation counteracts endothelial dysfunction induced by TNF-α. The use of ER activators, such as apigenin, may represent a strategy to prevent vascular disease associated with endothelial dysfunction, while avoiding the feminizing effects of estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Palmieri
- Vascular and Endovascular Unit, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Biology, DISC, University Hospital IRCCS San Martino, Italy
| | - Patrizia Perego
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering “G.B. Bonino”, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - Domenico Palombo
- Vascular and Endovascular Unit, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Biology, DISC, University Hospital IRCCS San Martino, Italy
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Gigoux V, Fourmy D. Acting on Hormone Receptors with Minimal Side Effect on Cell Proliferation: A Timely Challenge Illustrated with GLP-1R and GPER. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:50. [PMID: 23641235 PMCID: PMC3638125 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a large family of receptors that sense molecules outside the cell and activate inside signal transduction pathways and cellular responses. GPCR are involved in a wide variety of physiological processes, including in the neuroendocrine system. GPCR are also involved in many diseases and are the target of 30% of marketed medicinal drugs. Whereas the majority of the GPCR-targeting drugs have proved their therapeutic benefit, some of them were associated with undesired effects. We develop two examples of used drugs whose therapeutic benefits are tarnished by carcinogenesis risks. The chronic administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs widely used to treat type-2 diabetes was associated with an increased risk of pancreatic or thyroid cancers. The long-term treatment with the estrogen antagonist tamoxifen, developed to target breast cancer overexpressing estrogen receptors ER, presents agonist activity on the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor which is associated with an increased incidence of endometrial cancer and breast cancer resistance to hormonotherapy. We point out and discuss the need of pharmacological studies to understand and overcome the undesired effects associated with the chronic administration of GPCR ligands. In fact, biological effects triggered by GPCR often result from the activation of multiple intracellular signaling pathways. Deciphering which signaling networks are engaged following GPCR activation appears to be primordial to unveil their contribution in the physiological and physiopathological processes. The development of biased agonists to elucidate the role of the different signaling mechanisms mediated by GPCR activation will allow the generation of new therapeutic agents with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. In this regard, the identification of GLP-1R biased ligands promoting insulin secretion without inducing pro-tumoral effects would offer therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Gigoux
- Université de Toulouse, Université Paul SabatierToulouse, France
- *Correspondence: Véronique Gigoux, CHU Rangueil – INSERM, Université de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier, EA4552, 1 Avenue Jean Poulhès, BP 84225, 31432 Toulouse Cedex 4, France. e-mail:
| | - Daniel Fourmy
- Université de Toulouse, Université Paul SabatierToulouse, France
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The ESR2 AluI 1730G>A (rs4986938) gene polymorphism is associated with fibrinogen plasma levels in postmenopausal women. Gene 2012; 508:206-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Revised: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Apigenin inhibits the TNFα-induced expression of eNOS and MMP-9 via modulating Akt signalling through oestrogen receptor engagement. Mol Cell Biochem 2012; 371:129-36. [PMID: 22899172 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-012-1429-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 08/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Apigenin is a naturally occurring plant flavone with strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. While the anticancer properties of Apigenin have been extensively studied, little is known about its effects on endothelial dysfunction. We investigated the effects of Apigenin in EAhy926 endothelial cells exposed to TNFα by evaluating the expression of eNOS and MMP-9, two key molecules in endothelial dysfunction. MMP-9 activity was measured by gel zymography. Western blot analysis was performed to analyze eNOS expression and signal transduction. Treatment with Apigenin (50 μM) counteracted the TNFα-induced expression of eNOS and MMP-9 and the TNFα- triggered activation of Akt, p38MAPK and JNK signalling suggesting that multiple signalling pathways are involved in mediating the protective effects of Apigenin on endothelial function. To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of Apigenin, we used a pharmacological approach with specific inhibitors. The use of an Akt inhibitor mimicked the inhibitory effects of Apigenin on eNOS and MMP-9 expression, suggesting that eNOS and MMP-9 induction by TNFα depends on Akt activation. The TNFα-induced expression of MMP-9 was also affected by the JNK inhibitor SP600125. No effect on eNOS and MMP-9 expression was observed in the presence of the p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 or the ERK 1/2 inhibitor PD98059. Pretreatment with 'classic' (ERα and ERβ) or 'non classic' (GPR30) oestrogen receptor (ER) inhibitors (ICI182,780 and PTX, respectively) counteracted the ability of Apigenin to decrease the TNFα-triggered activation of the Akt pathway. Consistently, the use of both ER inhibitors reversed the inhibitory effects of Apigenin on the TNFα-induced expression of eNOS and, to a lesser extent, MMP-9. We can conclude that Apigenin exerts its inhibitory effect on the TNFα-induced expression of eNOS and MMP-9 through the Akt signalling inhibition generated by ER activation. Oestrogen signalling has been implicated in protection from cardiovascular disease. Therefore, having regard to its ability to bind to ERs, Apigenin may be considered an oestrogen-like molecule to potentially be used against the onset and progression of vascular diseases associated with endothelial dysfunction.
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36
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Barton M. Position paper: The membrane estrogen receptor GPER--Clues and questions. Steroids 2012; 77:935-42. [PMID: 22521564 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Rapid signaling of estrogen involves membrane estrogen receptors (ERs), including membrane subpopulations of ERα and ERβ. In the mid-1990s, several laboratories independently reported the cloning of an orphan G protein-coupled receptor from vascular and cancer cells that was named GPR30. Research published between 2000 and 2005 provided evidence that GPR30 binds and signals via estrogen indicating that this intracellular receptor is involved in rapid, non-genomic estrogen signaling. The receptor has since been designated as the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) by the International Union of Pharmacology. The availability of genetic tools such as different lines of GPER knock-out mice, as well as GPER-selective agonists and antagonists has advanced our understanding, but also added some confusion about the new function of this receptor. GPER not only binds estrogens but also other substances, including SERMs, SERDs, and environmental ER activators (endocrine disruptors; xenoestrogens) and also interacts with other proteins. This article represents a summary of a lecture given at the 7(th) International Meeting on Rapid Responses to Steroid Hormones in September 2011 in Axos, Crete, and reviews the current knowledge and questions about GPER-dependent signaling and function. Controversies that have complicated our understanding of GPER, including interactions with human ERα-36 and aldosterone as a potential ligand, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, LTK Y44 G22, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
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Bartella V, De Marco P, Malaguarnera R, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M. New advances on the functional cross-talk between insulin-like growth factor-I and estrogen signaling in cancer. Cell Signal 2012; 24:1515-21. [PMID: 22481093 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2012.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing awareness that estrogens may affect cell functions through the integration with a network of signaling pathways. The IGF system is a phylogenetically highly conserved axis that includes the insulin receptor (IR) and the insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) pathways, which are of crucial importance in the regulation of metabolism and cell growth in relationship to nutrient availability. Numerous studies nowadays document that estrogens cooperate with IGF system at multiple levels both in physiology and in disease. Several studies have focused on this bidirectional cross-talk in central nervous system, in mammary gland development and in cancer. Notably, cancer cells show frequent deregulation of the IGF system with overexpression of IR and/or IGF-IR and their ligands as well as frequent upregulation of the classical estrogen receptor (ER)α and the novel ER named GPER. Recent studies have, therefore, unraveled further mechanisms of cross-talk involving membrane initiated estrogen actions and the IGF system in cancer, that converge in the stimulation of pro-tumoral effects. These studies offer hope for new strategies aimed at the treatment of estrogen related cancers in order to prevent an estrogen-independent and more aggressive tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Bartella
- Department of Pharmaco-Biology, University of Calabria, 87030 Rende, Italy
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38
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Portbury AL, Ronnebaum SM, Zungu M, Patterson C, Willis MS. Back to your heart: ubiquitin proteasome system-regulated signal transduction. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2012; 52:526-37. [PMID: 22085703 PMCID: PMC3294005 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2011.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2011] [Revised: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 10/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Awareness of the regulation of cell signaling by post-translational ubiquitination has emerged over the past 2 decades. Like phosphorylation, post-translational modification of proteins with ubiquitin can result in the regulation of numerous cellular functions, for example, the DNA damage response, apoptosis, cell growth, and the innate immune response. In this review, we discuss recently published mechanisms by which the ubiquitin proteasome system regulates key signal transduction pathways in the heart, including MAPK JNK, calcineurin, FOXO, p53, and estrogen receptors α and β. We then explore how ubiquitin proteasome system-specific regulation of these signal transduction pathways plays a role in the pathophysiology of common cardiac diseases, such as cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, ischemia reperfusion injury, and diabetes. This article is part of a Special Section entitled "Post-translational Modification."
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. Portbury
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Sarah M. Ronnebaum
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Makhosazane Zungu
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Cam Patterson
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
- Departments of Cell and Developmental Biology, Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Monte S. Willis
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
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Bechlioulis A, Naka KK, Kalantaridou SN, Chatzikyriakidou A, Papanikolaou O, Kaponis A, Vakalis K, Vezyraki P, Gartzonika K, Mavridis A, Georgiou I, Michalis LK. Short-term hormone therapy improves sCD40L and endothelial function in early menopausal women: potential role of estrogen receptor polymorphisms. Maturitas 2012; 71:389-95. [PMID: 22277987 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2012.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2011] [Revised: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hormone therapy (HT) has been suggested to improve vascular function and inflammation in menopausal women, although not consistently. We aimed to investigate the effects of HT on endothelial function and inflammation, especially sCD40L, in early menopausal women, and the effect of common estrogen receptor (ER) polymorphisms on vascular responses to HT. STUDY DESIGN Eighty-four early menopausal women (<3 years in menopause) with menopausal complaints eligible for HT. Forty women received transdermal 17β-estradiol plus cyclical micronized progesterone for 3 months while 44 did not (controls). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and vascular inflammation markers (sICAM, sP-Selectin and sCD40L). Genetic polymorphisms of ERα (PvuII 454-397T>C and XbaI 454-351A>G) and ERβ (AluI 1730A>G) were also assessed. RESULTS The two groups did not differ at baseline. Following HT, vasomotor complaints' severity, blood pressure, LDL, sCD40L, sICAM and sP-Selectin decreased and FMD increased compared to controls (P<0.05 for all). ERβ AluI A allele presence was the most important independent predictor of HT-induced increase in FMD while ERα XbaI A allele was the only independent predictor of decrease in sCD40L. CONCLUSIONS Short-term HT in early menopausal women improved endothelial function and inflammation. Specific ER polymorphisms that were found to be main determinants of HT-induced effects on endothelium could identify subgroups of women who may benefit the most from HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Bechlioulis
- Michaelidion Cardiac Center, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
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Gomita K, Sato K, Yoshida M, Hagiwara N. PSGL-1-expressing CD4 T cells induce endothelial cell apoptosis in perimenopausal women. J Atheroscler Thromb 2011; 19:227-36. [PMID: 22104177 DOI: 10.5551/jat.9399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Menopause and subsequent estrogen deficiency correlate with the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases in women. However, the relationship between estrogen deficiency and development of atherosclerosis with inflammatory infiltrates is not fully understood. We sought to determine whether perimenopausal women (PMW) exhibited T cell dysfunction related to the expression of adhesion molecules and accelerated endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis. METHODS Fresh CD4 T cells were isolated from 48 PMW and 54 healthy control women with regular menstrual cycles (CW), and investigated cytotoxicity to ECs by apoptosis assay. The adhesion molecules on CD4 T cells were examined by flow cytometry. CD4 T cell rolling and adhesion on ECs were analyzed by adhesion assay under laminar flow. RESULTS CD4 T cells from PMW with low estradiol levels induced significant EC apoptosis (P = 0.0152). Furthermore, cytotoxic CD4 T cells from PMW strongly expressed P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) and integrin β2 (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0285, respectively) but not L-selectin or integrin αM when compared to CD4 T cells from CW. Estradiol levels negatively correlated with only PSGL-1 expression (R = -0.781, P = 0.0002), and estradiol treatments inhibited both PSGL-1 expression (P = 0.0133) and T cell-induced EC apoptosis (P = 0.018). An estrogen receptor antagonist inhibited these effects of estradiol (P = 0.0355 and P = 0.0097, respectively). Moreover, PSGL-1 expression correlated with T cell adhesion to ECs under laminar flow conditions (R = 0.636, P = 0.0355) and with EC apoptosis (R = 0.614, P = 0.0196). PSGL-1 specific antibodies effectively suppressed T cell adhesion (P = 0.0057) and EC apoptosis (P = 0.001) indicating that CD4 T cell-mediated EC apoptosis depended on PSGL-1 adhesion in PMW. CONCLUSIONS PSGL-1-expressing cytotoxic CD4 T cells are abundant in PMW with low estradiol levels may contribute to T cell-mediated atherosclerotic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Gomita
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Japan
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Abstract
Estrogen has pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system. The mechanisms by which estrogen confers these pleiotropic effects are undergoing active investigation. Until a decade ago, all estrogen signaling was thought to occur by estrogen binding to nuclear estrogen receptors (estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-β), which bind to DNA and function as ligand-activated transcription factors. Estrogen binding to the receptor alters gene expression, thereby altering cell function. Estrogen also binds to nuclear estrogen receptors that are tethered to the plasma membrane, resulting in acute activation of signaling kinases such as PI3K. An orphan G-protein-coupled receptor, G-protein-coupled receptor 30, can also bind estrogen and activate acute signaling pathways. Thus, estrogen can alter cell function by binding to different estrogen receptors. This article reviews the different estrogen receptors and their signaling mechanisms, discusses mechanisms that regulate estrogen receptor levels and locations, and considers the cardiovascular effects of estrogen signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Murphy
- Cardiac Physiology Section, Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Aging negatively affects estrogens-mediated effects on nitric oxide bioavailability by shifting ERα/ERβ balance in female mice. PLoS One 2011; 6:e25335. [PMID: 21966501 PMCID: PMC3178641 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0025335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Aging is among the major causes for the lack of cardiovascular protection by estrogen (E2) during postmenopause. Our study aims to determine the mechanisms whereby aging changes E2 effects on nitric oxide (NO) production in a mouse model of accelerated senescence (SAM). Methods and Results Although we found no differences on NO production in females SAM prone (SAMP, aged) compared to SAM resistant (SAMR, young), by either DAF-2 fluorescence or plasmatic nitrite/nitrate (NO2/NO3), in both cases, E2 treatment increased NO production in SAMR but had no effect in SAMP. Those results are in agreement with changes of eNOS protein and gene expression. E2 up-regulated eNOS expression in SAMR but not in SAMP. E2 is also known to increase NO by decreasing its catabolism by superoxide anion (O2-). Interestingly, E2 treatment decreased O2− production in young females, while increased O2− in aged ones. Furthermore, we observed that aging changed expression ratio of estrogen receptors (ERβ/ERα) and levels of DNA methylation. Increased ratio ERβ/ERα in aged females is associated to a lack of estrogen modulation of NO production and with a reversal in its antioxidant effect to a pro-oxidant profile. Conclusions Together, our data suggest that aging has detrimental effects on E2-mediated benefits on NO bioavailability, partially by affecting the ability of E2 to induce up regulation of eNOS and decrease of O2−. These modifications may be associated to aging-mediated modifications on global DNA methylation status, but not to a specific methylation at 5′flanking region of ERα gene.
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Abstract
Estrogens mediate profound effects throughout the body and regulate physiological and pathological processes in both women and men. The low prevalence of many diseases in premenopausal women is attributed to the presence of 17β-estradiol, the predominant and most potent endogenous estrogen. In addition to endogenous estrogens, several man-made and plant-derived molecules, such as bisphenol A and genistein, also exhibit estrogenic activity. Traditionally, the actions of 17β-estradiol are ascribed to two nuclear estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and ERβ, which function as ligand-activated transcription factors. However, 17β-estradiol also mediates rapid signaling events via pathways that involve transmembrane ERs, such as G-protein-coupled ER 1 (GPER; formerly known as GPR30). In the past 10 years, GPER has been implicated in both rapid signaling and transcriptional regulation. With the discovery of GPER-selective ligands that can selectively modulate GPER function in vitro and in preclinical studies and with the use of Gper knockout mice, many more potential roles for GPER are being elucidated. This Review highlights the physiological roles of GPER in the reproductive, nervous, endocrine, immune and cardiovascular systems, as well as its pathological roles in a diverse array of disorders including cancer, for which GPER is emerging as a novel therapeutic target and prognostic indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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Meyer MR, Prossnitz ER, Barton M. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER/GPR30 as a regulator of cardiovascular function. Vascul Pharmacol 2011; 55:17-25. [PMID: 21742056 PMCID: PMC3216677 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2011.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2011] [Revised: 06/19/2011] [Accepted: 06/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous estrogens are important regulators of cardiovascular homeostasis in premenopausal women and delay the development of hypertension and coronary artery disease. These hormones act via three different estrogen receptors affecting both gene transcription and rapid signaling pathways in a complex interplay. In addition to the classical estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, which are known mediators of estrogen-dependent vascular effects, a G protein-coupled estrogen receptor termed GPER that is expressed in the cardiovascular system has recently been identified. Endogenous human 17β-estradiol, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) including tamoxifen and raloxifene, and selective estrogen receptor downregulators (SERDs) such as ICI 182,780 are all agonists of GPER, which has been implicated in the regulation of vasomotor tone and protection from myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. As a result, understanding the individual role of ERα, ERβ, and GPER in cardiovascular function has become increasingly complex. With accumulating evidence that GPER is responsible for a variety of beneficial cardiovascular effects of estrogens, this receptor may represent a novel target to develop effective strategies for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases by tissue-specific, selective activation of estrogen-dependent molecular pathways devoid of side effects seen with conventional hormone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R. Meyer
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Eric R. Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Darabi M, Ani M, Panjehpour M, Rabbani M, Movahedian A, Zarean E. Effect of estrogen receptor β A1730G polymorphism on ABCA1 gene expression response to postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2010; 15:11-5. [PMID: 21117950 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2010.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The estrogen receptor β (ERβ) mediates the action of estrogen on metabolism of lipids and lipoprotein. Therefore, its gene is a promising candidate gene for cardiovascular disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the ERβ A1730G polymorphism modifies the metabolic response to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in postmenopausal women. The population included 60 normolipidemic postmenopausal women with equal numbers of each A1730G genotype followed during a 90-day experimental period. All subjects received oral estrogen together with a progestin therapy during the HRT. ABCA1 gene expression and serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations were measured at the beginning and end of the HRT trial. At baseline, ABCA1 gene expression, lipid or lipoprotein concentrations were not significantly different among the ERβ A1730G genotype groups. After HRT, however, subjects with GG genotype had a greater increase in ABCA1 gene expression (p = 0.002) and a trend toward greater increase in apoA-I (p = 0.058) than subjects carrying the A allele. An interaction effect between genotype and HRT effect was observed on ABCA1 gene expression. In conclusion, the positive changes of ABCA1 gene expression and apoA-I were affected by the ERβ A1730G polymorphism in women taking estrogen-progesterone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Darabi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Parahuleva MS, Hölschermann H, Erdogan A, Langanke E, Prickartz I, Parviz B, Weiskirchen R, Tillmanns H, Kanse SM. Factor seven ativating potease (FSAP) levels during normal pregnancy and in women using oral contraceptives. Thromb Res 2010; 126:e36-40. [PMID: 20381831 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2010.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2009] [Revised: 03/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Factor seven activating protease (FSAP) is a plasma serine protease involved in haemostasis and remodeling processes. We have investigated whether pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives (OCs) influences circulating FSAP levels. The effect of female sex hormones on FSAP expression in cultured cells was also determined. MATERIALS AND METHODS FSAP levels and activity was measured in plasma samples obtained at different gestation stages from healthy pregnant women (n=101), from non-pregnant women, pre-menopausal women who currently use OCs (n=48), and non-pregnant women who did not use OCs (n=69). RESULTS In late pregnancy the plasma FSAP antigen (median 2.28 PEU/ml [range 1.11 to 2.62 PEU/ml]; p<0.001 vs control group) and activity (median 2.98 PEU/ml [range 1.05 to 4.24 PEU/ml]; p<0.001 vs control group) was significantly higher compared with levels in non-pregnant women and remained elevated after delivery. Plasma FSAP levels in women using OCs was also significantly elevated compared to the control group. Ex vivo experiments demonstrated enhanced FSAP expression in monocytes isolated from women using OCs. In vitro experiments showed that FSAP mRNA levels were strongly induced by estradiol in monocytes but not in hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS Increased levels of circulating FSAP in pregnancy and in women using OCs indicate that hormonal status critically influences FSAP expression. Hormonal influences could be observed in monocytes in vivo and ex-vivo but not in hepatocytes indicating cell-specific regulation. Future studies designed to investigate the role of FSAP in haemostasis and remodeling processes should consider the role of female sex hormones on FSAP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana S Parahuleva
- Internal Medicine I/Cardiology and Angiology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.
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