1
|
Ngwa C, Misrani A, Manyam KV, Xu Y, Qi S, Sharmeen R, McCullough L, Liu F. Escape of Kdm6a from X chromosome is detrimental to ischemic brains via IRF5 signaling. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4986866. [PMID: 39399684 PMCID: PMC11469404 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4986866/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2024]
Abstract
The role of chromatin biology and epigenetics in disease progression is gaining increasing recognition. Genes that escape X chromosome inactivation (XCI) can impact neuroinflammation through epigenetic mechanisms. Our prior research has suggested that the X escapee genes Kdm6a and Kdm5c are involved in microglial activation after stroke in aged mice. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that Kdm6a/5c demethylate H3K27Me3/H3K4Me3 in microglia respectively, and mediate the transcription of interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) and IRF4, leading to microglial pro-inflammatory responses and exacerbated stroke injury. Aged (17-20 months) Kdm6a/5c microglial conditional knockout (CKO) female mice (one allele of the gene) were subjected to a 60-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Gene floxed females (two alleles) and males (one allele) were included as controls. Infarct volume and behavioral deficits were quantified 3 days after stroke. Immune responses including microglial activation and infiltration of peripheral leukocytes in the ischemic brain were assessed by flow cytometry. Epigenetic modification of IRF5/4 by Kdm6a/5c were analyzed by CUT&RUN assay. The demethylation of H3K27Me3 by kdm6a increased IRF5 transcription; meanwhile Kdm5c demethylated H3K4Me3 to repress IRF5 . Both Kdm6a fl/fl and Kdm5c fl/fl mice had worse stroke outcomes compared to fl/y and CKO mice. Gene floxed females showed more robust expression of CD68 in microglia, elevated brain and plasma levels of IL-1β or TNF-α, after stroke. We concluded that IRF5 signaling plays a critical role in mediating the deleterious effect of Kdm6a ; whereas Kdm5c's effect is independent of IRF5.
Collapse
|
2
|
Franza L, Caldarelli M, Villani ER, Cianci R. Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Diseases: Exploring the Role of Microbiota and Immunity. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1645. [PMID: 39200110 PMCID: PMC11352091 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12081645] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most common cause of mortality and morbidity in Western countries, thus representing a global health concern. CVDs show different patterns in terms of the prevalence and presentation in men and women. The role of sex hormones has been extensively implicated in these sex-specific differences, due to the presence of the menstrual cycle and menopause in women. Moreover, the gut microbiota (GM) has been implicated in cardiovascular health, considering the growing evidence that it is involved in determining the development of specific diseases. In particular, gut-derived metabolites have been linked to CVDs and kidney disorders, which can in turn promote the progression of CVDs. Considering the differences in the composition of GM between men and women, it is possible that gut microbiota act as a mediator in regard to the sex disparities in CVDs. This narrative review aims to comprehensively review the interplay between sex, GM, and CVDs, discussing potential mechanisms and therapeutic options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Franza
- Emergency, Anesthesiological and Reanimation Sciences Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-IRCCS of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Emergency Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Largo del Pozzo, 71, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Mario Caldarelli
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Rocco Villani
- Department of Geriatrics, Orthopedics and Rheumatology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- UOC Geriatra-Disturbi Cognitivi e Demenze, Dipartimento di Cure Primarie, AUSL Modena, 41012 Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Cianci
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Martin TG, Leinwand LA. Hearts apart: sex differences in cardiac remodeling in health and disease. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e180074. [PMID: 38949027 PMCID: PMC11213513 DOI: 10.1172/jci180074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological sex is an important modifier of physiology and influences pathobiology in many diseases. While heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide in both men and women, sex differences exist at the organ and cellular scales, affecting clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. In this Review, we highlight baseline sex differences in cardiac structure, function, and cellular signaling and discuss the contribution of sex hormones and chromosomes to these characteristics. The heart is a remarkably plastic organ and rapidly responds to physiological and pathological cues by modifying form and function. The nature and extent of cardiac remodeling in response to these stimuli are often dependent on biological sex. We discuss organ- and molecular-level sex differences in adaptive physiological remodeling and pathological cardiac remodeling from pressure and volume overload, ischemia, and genetic heart disease. Finally, we offer a perspective on key future directions for research into cardiac sex differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G. Martin
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Leslie A. Leinwand
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sakamuri A, Visniauskas B, Kilanowski-Doroh I, McNally AB, Imulinde A, Kamau A, Sengottaian D, McLachlan J, Anguera M, Mauvais-Jarvis F, Lindsey SH, Ogola BO. Testosterone deficiency promotes arterial stiffening independent of sex chromosome complement. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:46. [PMID: 38845040 PMCID: PMC11155160 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00624-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex hormones and sex chromosomes play a vital role in cardiovascular disease. Testosterone plays a crucial role in men's health. Lower testosterone level is associated with cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases, including inflammation, atherosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Testosterone replacement is beneficial or neutral to men's cardiovascular health. Testosterone deficiency is associated with cardiovascular events. Testosterone supplementation to hypogonadal men improves libido, increases muscle strength, and enhances mood. We hypothesized that sex chromosomes (XX and XY) interaction with testosterone plays a role in arterial stiffening. METHODS We used four core genotype male mice to understand the inherent contribution of sex hormones and sex chromosome complement in arterial stiffening. Age-matched mice were either gonadal intact or castrated at eight weeks plus an additional eight weeks to clear endogenous sex hormones. This was followed by assessing blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, echocardiography, and ex vivo passive vascular mechanics. RESULTS Arterial stiffening but not blood pressure was more significant in castrated than testes-intact mice independent of sex chromosome complement. Castrated mice showed a leftward shift in stress-strain curves and carotid wall thinning. Sex chromosome complement (XX) in the absence of testosterone increased collagen deposition in the aorta and Kdm6a gene expression. CONCLUSION Testosterone deprivation increases arterial stiffening and vascular wall remodeling. Castration increases Col1α1 in male mice with XX sex chromosome complement. Our study shows decreased aortic contractile genes in castrated mice with XX than XY sex chromosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anil Sakamuri
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ariane Imulinde
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Anne Kamau
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Divya Sengottaian
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - John McLachlan
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Montserrat Anguera
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Franck Mauvais-Jarvis
- Tulane Center of Excellence in Sex-Based Biology & Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Deming Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane Center of Excellence in Sex-Based Biology & Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Benard O Ogola
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Morin-Grandmont A, Walsh-Wilkinson É, Labbé EA, Thibodeau SÈ, Dupont É, Boudreau DK, Arsenault M, Bossé Y, Couet J. Biological sex, sex steroids and sex chromosomes contribute to mouse cardiac aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7553-7577. [PMID: 38742935 PMCID: PMC11131996 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205822] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
After menopause, the incidence of cardiovascular disease rapidly rises in women. The disappearing protection provided by sex steroids is a consequence of the development of many risk factors. Preclinical studies are necessary to understand better the effects of ovarian hormones loss cardiac aging. To mimic menopause in mice and study its consequences, we delayed ovariectomy at 12 months and followed animals for 12 months. Using RNA sequencing, we investigated changes in the myocardial exome with aging. In addition, with four-core genotypes (FCG) transgenic mice, we studied sex chromosome effects on cardiac aging. Heart weight increased from 3 to 24 months (males + 35%, females + 29%). In males, 75% of this increase had occurred at 12 months; in females, only 30%. Gonadectomy of mice at 12 months blocked cardiac hypertrophy in both sexes during the second year of life. The dosage of the X chromosomes did not influence cardiac growth in young and older mice. We performed an RNA sequencing study in young and old mice. We identified new highly expressed genes modulated during aging (Bdh, Myot, Cpxm2, and Slc38a1). The myocardial exome in older animals displayed few differences related to the animal's sex or the presence or absence of sex steroids for a year. We show that the morphological evolution of the heart depends on the biological sex via gonadal sex hormone actions. The myocardial exome of old male and female mice is relatively similar. Our study emphasizes the need to consider sex steroid effects in studying cardiac aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Morin-Grandmont
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Élisabeth Walsh-Wilkinson
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Emylie-Ann Labbé
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Sara-Ève Thibodeau
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Élizabeth Dupont
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Dominique K. Boudreau
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie Arsenault
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Yohan Bossé
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques Couet
- Groupe de Recherche sur les Valvulopathies, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bridges J, Ramirez-Guerrero JA, Rosa-Garrido M. Gender-specific genetic and epigenetic signatures in cardiovascular disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1355980. [PMID: 38529333 PMCID: PMC10962446 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1355980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac sex differences represent a pertinent focus in pursuit of the long-awaited goal of personalized medicine. Despite evident disparities in the onset and progression of cardiac pathology between sexes, historical oversight has led to the neglect of gender-specific considerations in the treatment of patients. This oversight is attributed to a predominant focus on male samples and a lack of sex-based segregation in patient studies. Recognizing these sex differences is not only relevant to the treatment of cisgender individuals; it also holds paramount importance in addressing the healthcare needs of transgender patients, a demographic that is increasingly prominent in contemporary society. In response to these challenges, various agencies, including the National Institutes of Health, have actively directed their efforts toward advancing our comprehension of this phenomenon. Epigenetics has proven to play a crucial role in understanding sex differences in both healthy and disease states within the heart. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the physiological distinctions between males and females during the development of various cardiac pathologies, specifically focusing on unraveling the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms at play. Current findings related to distinct sex-chromosome compositions, the emergence of gender-biased genetic variations, and variations in hormonal profiles between sexes are highlighted. Additionally, the roles of DNA methylation, histone marks, and chromatin structure in mediating pathological sex differences are explored. To inspire further investigation into this crucial subject, we have conducted global analyses of various epigenetic features, leveraging data previously generated by the ENCODE project.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Manuel Rosa-Garrido
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Curtis LM. Sex and Gender Differences in AKI. KIDNEY360 2024; 5:160-167. [PMID: 37990360 PMCID: PMC10833607 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in AKI continue to be identified. Generally, women are protected from AKI when compared to men. Much of the protection exhibited in women is diminished after menopause. These sex and age effects have also been noted in animal models of AKI. Gonadal hormones, as modifiers of incidence, severity, and progression of AKI, have been offered as likely contributors to this sex and age effect. In animal models of AKI, estrogen and testosterone seem to modulate susceptibility. Questions remain however regarding cellular and molecular changes that are initiated by modulation of these hormones because both estrogen and testosterone have effects across cell types that play a role in AKI. Although findings have largely been informed by studies in males, molecular pathways that are involved in the initiation and progression of AKI may be modulated by gonadal hormones. Compounding the hormone-receptor effects are developmental effects of sex chromosomal complement and epigenetic influences that may confer sex-based baseline differences in gene and protein expression, and gene dosage effects of X inactivation and escape on molecular pathways. Elucidation of sex-based protection may afford a more complete view of AKI and potential therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, the effect on susceptibility to AKI in transgender patients, who receive life-altering and essential gender-affirming hormone therapy, requires greater attention. In this review, several potential contributors to the sex differences observed in humans and animal models are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Curtis
- Division of Nephrology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Usselman CW, Lindsey ML, Robinson AT, Habecker BA, Taylor CE, Merryman WD, Kimmerly D, Bender JR, Regensteiner JG, Moreau KL, Pilote L, Wenner MM, O'Brien M, Yarovinsky TO, Stachenfeld NS, Charkoudian N, Denfeld QE, Moreira-Bouchard JD, Pyle WG, DeLeon-Pennell KY. Guidelines on the use of sex and gender in cardiovascular research. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H238-H255. [PMID: 37999647 PMCID: PMC11219057 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00535.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
In cardiovascular research, sex and gender have not typically been considered in research design and reporting until recently. This has resulted in clinical research findings from which not only all women, but also gender-diverse individuals have been excluded. The resulting dearth of data has led to a lack of sex- and gender-specific clinical guidelines and raises serious questions about evidence-based care. Basic research has also excluded considerations of sex. Including sex and/or gender as research variables not only has the potential to improve the health of society overall now, but it also provides a foundation of knowledge on which to build future advances. The goal of this guidelines article is to provide advice on best practices to include sex and gender considerations in study design, as well as data collection, analysis, and interpretation to optimally establish rigor and reproducibility needed to inform clinical decision-making and improve outcomes. In cardiovascular physiology, incorporating sex and gender is a necessary component when optimally designing and executing research plans. The guidelines serve as the first guidance on how to include sex and gender in cardiovascular research. We provide here a beginning path toward achieving this goal and improve the ability of the research community to interpret results through a sex and gender lens to enable comparison across studies and laboratories, resulting in better health for all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte W Usselman
- Cardiovascular Health and Autonomic Regulation Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Merry L Lindsey
- School of Graduate Studies, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
- Research Service, Nashville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Austin T Robinson
- Neurovascular Physiology Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, United States
| | - Beth A Habecker
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry and Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Chloe E Taylor
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - W David Merryman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Derek Kimmerly
- Autonomic Cardiovascular Control and Exercise Laboratory, Division of Kinesiology, School of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jeffrey R Bender
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Judith G Regensteiner
- Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Ludeman Family Center for Women's Health Research, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Kerrie L Moreau
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States
- Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Louise Pilote
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Megan M Wenner
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, United States
| | - Myles O'Brien
- School of Physiotherapy and Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Timur O Yarovinsky
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Nina S Stachenfeld
- John B. Pierce Laboratory, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Nisha Charkoudian
- Thermal and Mountain Medicine Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Quin E Denfeld
- School of Nursing and Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Jesse D Moreira-Bouchard
- Q.U.E.E.R. Lab, Programs in Human Physiology, Department of Health Sciences, Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - W Glen Pyle
- IMPART Team Canada Network, Dalhousie Medicine, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristine Y DeLeon-Pennell
- School of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States
- Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sakamuri A, Visniauskas B, Kilanowski-Doroh I, McNally A, Imulinde-Sugi A, Kamau A, Sengottaian D, McLachlan J, Anguera M, Mauvais-Jarvis F, Lindsey S, Ogola BO. Testosterone Deficiency Promotes Arterial Stiffening Independent of Sex Chromosome Complement. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3370040. [PMID: 37886462 PMCID: PMC10602149 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3370040/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Background Testosterone plays a vital role in men's health. Lower testosterone level is associated with cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases, including inflammation, atherosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Testosterone replacement is beneficial or neutral to men's cardiovascular health. Testosterone deficiency is associated with cardiovascular events. Testosterone supplementation to hypogonadal men improves libido, increases muscle strength, and enhances mood. We hypothesized that sex chromosomes (XX and XY) interaction with testosterone plays a role in arterial stiffening. Methods We used four core genotype male mice to understand the inherent contribution of sex hormones and sex chromosome complement in arterial stiffening. Age-matched mice were either gonadal intact or castrated for eight weeks, followed by an assessment of blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, echocardiography, and ex vivo passive vascular mechanics. Results Arterial stiffening but not blood pressure was more significant in castrated than testes-intact mice independent of sex chromosome complement. Castrated mice showed a leftward shift in stress-strain curves and carotid wall thinning. Sex chromosome complement (XX) in the absence of testosterone increased collagen deposition in the aorta and Kdm6a gene expression. Conclusion Testosterone deprivation increases arterial stiffening and vascular wall remodeling. Castration increases Col1α1 in male mice with XX sex chromosome complement. Our study shows decreased aortic contractile genes in castrated mice with XX than XY sex chromosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Anne Kamau
- Augusta University Medical College of Georgia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sánchez Marrero G, Villa-Roel N, Li F, Park C, Kang DW, Hekman KE, Jo H, Brewster LP. Single-Cell RNA sequencing investigation of female-male differences under PAD conditions. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1251141. [PMID: 37745110 PMCID: PMC10512722 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1251141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an age-related medical condition affecting mostly muscular arteries of the limb. It is the 3rd leading cause of atherosclerotic morbidity. The mechanical environment of endothelial cells (ECs) in PAD is characterized by disturbed blood flow (d-flow) and stiff extracellular matrices. In PAD, the stiffness of arteries is due to decreased elastin function and increased collagen content. These flow and stiffness parameters are largely missing from current models of PAD. It has been previously proven that ECs exposed to d-flow or stiff substrates lead to proatherogenic pathways, but the effect of both, d-flow and stiffness, on EC phenotype has not been fully investigated. In this study, we sought to explore the effect of sex on proatherogenic pathways that could result from exposing endothelial cells to a d-flow and stiff environment. We utilized the scRNA-seq tool to analyze the gene expression of ECs exposed to the different mechanical conditions both in vitro and in vivo. We found that male ECs exposed to different mechanical stimuli presented higher expression of genes related to fibrosis and d-flow in vitro. We validated our findings in vivo by exposing murine carotid arteries to d-flow via partial carotid artery ligation. Since women have delayed onset of arterial stiffening and subsequent PAD, this work may provide a framework for some of the pathways in which biological sex interacts with sex-based differences in PAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloriani Sánchez Marrero
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicolas Villa-Roel
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Feifei Li
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Christian Park
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Dong-Won Kang
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Katherine E. Hekman
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Surgical and Research Services, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Luke P. Brewster
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Surgical and Research Services, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Medzikovic L, Azem T, Sun W, Rejali P, Esdin L, Rahman S, Dehghanitafti A, Aryan L, Eghbali M. Sex Differences in Therapies against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: From Basic Science to Clinical Perspectives. Cells 2023; 12:2077. [PMID: 37626887 PMCID: PMC10453147 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mortality from myocardial infarction (MI) has declined over recent decades, which could be attributed in large part to improved treatment methods. Early reperfusion is the cornerstone of current MI treatment. However, reoxygenation via restored blood flow induces further damage to the myocardium, leading to ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). While experimental studies overwhelmingly demonstrate that females experience greater functional recovery from MI and decreased severity in the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, the outcomes of MI with subsequent reperfusion therapy, which is the clinical correlate of myocardial IRI, are generally poorer for women compared with men. Distressingly, women are also reported to benefit less from current guideline-based therapies compared with men. These seemingly contradicting outcomes between experimental and clinical studies show a need for further investigation of sex-based differences in disease pathophysiology, treatment response, and a sex-specific approach in the development of novel therapeutic methods against myocardial IRI. In this literature review, we summarize the current knowledge on sex differences in the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of myocardial IRI, including the roles of sex hormones and sex chromosomes. Furthermore, we address sex differences in pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenetics of current drugs prescribed to limit myocardial IRI. Lastly, we highlight ongoing clinical trials assessing novel pharmacological treatments against myocardial IRI and sex differences that may underlie the efficacy of these new therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mansoureh Eghbali
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, CHS BH-550 CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA (W.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Reue K, Arnold AP. Inclusion of Sex as a Biological Variable in Biomedical Sciences at the Undergraduate Level and Beyond. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2023; 32:891-896. [PMID: 37585516 PMCID: PMC10457603 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2022.0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
To improve research on women's health, and to achieve better understanding of the factors controlling disease across diverse populations of humans, it is imperative to study sex differences in physiology and disease. After the introduction of the "SABV policy" at NIH, which requires investigators using animals or humans to consider sex as a biological factor, it became clear that many investigators were unaware of concepts of sexual differentiation or methods that can be used to study sex as a biological variable (SABV). To remedy this situation, efforts have increased to teach concepts and methods of SABV at all educational levels. The UCLA Scientific Center of Research Excellence (SCORE) grant "Sex differences in the metabolic syndrome" promotes education about SABV through three primary mechanisms: (1) through didactic course content for students at the undergraduate level, (2) by providing pilot funding for early career investigators to study the role of sex in metabolism-related areas, and (3) through curation of a video library, which may be useful for investigators performing research at the graduate, postgraduate, and faculty levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Reue
- Departments of Human Genetics and Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Arthur P. Arnold
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Collins HE. Female cardiovascular biology and resilience in the setting of physiological and pathological stress. Redox Biol 2023; 63:102747. [PMID: 37216702 PMCID: PMC10209889 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
For years, females were thought of as smaller men with complex hormonal cycles; as a result, females have been largely excluded from preclinical and clinical research. However, in the last ten years, with the increased focus on sex as a biological variable, it has become clear that this is not the case, and in fact, male and female cardiovascular biology and cardiac stress responses differ substantially. Premenopausal women are protected from cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction and resultant heart failure, having preserved cardiac function, reduced adverse remodeling, and increased survival. Many underlying biological processes that contribute to ventricular remodeling differ between the sexes, such as cellular metabolism; immune cell responses; cardiac fibrosis and extracellular matrix remodeling; cardiomyocyte dysfunction; and endothelial biology; however, it is unclear how these changes afford protection to the female heart. Although many of these changes are dependent on protection provided by female sex hormones, several of these changes occur independent of sex hormones, suggesting that the nature of these changes is more complex than initially thought. This may be why studies focused on the cardiovascular benefits of hormone replacement therapy in post-menopausal women have provided mixed results. Some of the complexity likely stems from the fact that the cellular composition of the heart is sexually dimorphic and that in the setting of MI, different subpopulations of these cell types are apparent. Despite the documented sex-differences in cardiovascular (patho)physiology, the underlying mechanisms that contribute are largely unknown due to inconsistent findings amongst investigators and, in some cases, lack of rigor in reporting and consideration of sex-dependent variables. Therefore, this review aims to describe current understanding of the sex-dependent differences in the myocardium in response to physiological and pathological stressors, with a focus on the sex-dependent differences that contribute to post-infarction remodeling and resultant functional decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Collins
- Center for Cardiometabolic Science, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Delia B. Baxter Research Building, University of Louisville, 580 S. Preston S, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Conlon FL, Arnold AP. Sex chromosome mechanisms in cardiac development and disease. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2023; 2:340-350. [PMID: 37808586 PMCID: PMC10558115 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-023-00256-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Many human diseases, including cardiovascular disease, show differences between men and women in pathology and treatment outcomes. In the case of cardiac disease, sex differences are exemplified by differences in the frequency of specific types of congenital and adult-onset heart disease. Clinical studies have suggested that gonadal hormones are a factor in sex bias. However, recent research has shown that gene and protein networks under non-hormonal control also account for cardiac sex differences. In this review, we describe the sex chromosome pathways that lead to sex differences in the development and function of the heart and highlight how these findings affect future care and treatment of cardiac disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank L Conlon
- Departments of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Corker A, Learmonth M, Patrick DM, DeLeon-Pennell KY, Van Beusecum JP. Cardiac and vascular complications in lupus: Is there a role for sex? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1098383. [PMID: 37063843 PMCID: PMC10090292 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1098383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common systemic autoimmune disorder and is characterized by autoantibody formation and subsequent immune complex deposition into target organs. SLE affects nearly nine women to every one man worldwide. Patients with SLE are at an enhanced risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. CVD is the leading cause of death worldwide and includes heart and blood vessel disorders, cerebrovascular disease, and rheumatic heart disease. Specific mechanisms by which cardiac and vascular pathophysiology develops in patients with SLE are still not fully known. Not only do we not understand this correlation between SLE and CVD, but there is also a critical gap in scientific knowledge on the contribution of sex. In this review, we will discuss the cardiac and vascular pathological disease states that are present in some patients with SLE. More importantly, we will discuss the potential mechanisms for the role of sex and sex hormones in the development of CVD with SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Corker
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Maya Learmonth
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - David M. Patrick
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Research Service, Tennessee Valley Healthcare Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kristine Y. DeLeon-Pennell
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Justin P. Van Beusecum
- Department of Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System, Charleston, SC, United States
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Sex is a key risk factor for many types of cardiovascular disease. It is imperative to understand the mechanisms underlying sex differences to devise optimal preventive and therapeutic approaches for all individuals. Both biological sex (determined by sex chromosomes and gonadal hormones) and gender (social and cultural behaviors associated with femininity or masculinity) influence differences between men and women in disease susceptibility and pathology. Here, we focus on the application of experimental mouse models that elucidate the influence of 2 components of biological sex-sex chromosome complement (XX or XY) and gonad type (ovaries or testes). These models have revealed that in addition to well-known effects of gonadal hormones, sex chromosome complement influences cardiovascular risk factors, such as plasma cholesterol levels and adiposity, as well as the development of atherosclerosis and pulmonary hypertension. One mechanism by which sex chromosome dosage influences cardiometabolic traits is through sex-biased expression of X chromosome genes that escape X inactivation. These include chromatin-modifying enzymes that regulate gene expression throughout the genome. The identification of factors that determine sex-biased gene expression and cardiometabolic traits will expand our mechanistic understanding of cardiovascular disease processes and provide insight into sex differences that remain throughout the lifespan as gonadal hormone levels alter with age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Reue
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Carrie B. Wiese
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Arnold AP. Integrating Sex Chromosome and Endocrine Theories to Improve Teaching of Sexual Differentiation. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2022; 14:a039057. [PMID: 35667790 PMCID: PMC9438782 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a039057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Major sex differences in mammalian tissues are functionally tied to reproduction and evolved as adaptations to meet different reproductive needs of females and males. They were thus directly controlled by gonadal hormones. Factors encoded on the sex chromosomes also cause many sex differences in diverse tissues because they are present in different doses in XX and XY cells. The sex chromosome effects likely evolved not because of demands of reproduction, but as side effects of genomic forces that adaptively reduced sexual inequality. Sex-specific effects of particular factors, including gonadal hormones, therefore, are not necessarily explained as adaptations for reproduction, but also as potential factors offsetting, rather than producing, sex differences. The incorporation of these concepts would improve future teaching about sexual differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095-7239, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Matter of Estrogens, Ceramides, and Sphingosine 1-Phosphate. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074009. [PMID: 35409368 PMCID: PMC8999971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The medical community recognizes sex-related differences in pathophysiology and cardiovascular disease outcomes (CVD), culminating with heart failure. In general, pre-menopausal women tend to have a better prognosis than men. Explaining why this occurs is not a simple matter. For decades, sex hormones like estrogens (Es) have been identified as one of the leading factors driving these sex differences. Indeed, Es seem protective in women as their decline, during and after menopause, coincides with an increased CV risk and HF development. However, clinical trials demonstrated that E replacement in post-menopause women results in adverse cardiac events and increased risk of breast cancer. Thus, a deeper understanding of E-related mechanisms is needed to provide a vital gateway toward better CVD prevention and treatment in women. Of note, sphingolipids (SLs) and their metabolism are strictly related to E activities. Among the SLs, ceramide and sphingosine 1-phosphate play essential roles in mammalian physiology, particularly in the CV system, and appear differently modulated in males and females. In keeping with this view, here we explore the most recent experimental and clinical observations about the role of E and SL metabolism, emphasizing how these factors impact the CV system.
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Predescu DN, Mokhlesi B, Predescu SA. The Impact of Sex Chromosomes in the Sexual Dimorphism of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:582-594. [PMID: 35114193 PMCID: PMC8978209 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a sex-biased disease with a poorly understood female prevalence. Emerging research suggests that nonhormonal factors, such as the XX or XY sex chromosome complement and sex bias in gene expression, may also lead to sex-based differences in PAH incidence, penetrance, and progression. Typically, one of females' two X chromosomes is epigenetically silenced to offer a gender-balanced gene expression. Recent data demonstrate that the long noncoding RNA X-inactive specific transcript, essential for X chromosome inactivation and dosage compensation of X-linked gene expression, shows elevated levels in female PAH lung specimens compared with controls. This molecular event leads to incomplete inactivation of the females' second X chromosome, abnormal expression of X-linked gene(s) involved in PAH pathophysiology, and a pulmonary artery endothelial cell (PAEC) proliferative phenotype. Moreover, the pathogenic proliferative p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase/ETS transcription factor ELK1 (Elk1)/cFos signaling is mechanistically linked to the sexually dimorphic proliferative response of PAECs in PAH. Apprehending the complicated relationship between long noncoding RNA X-inactive specific transcript and X-linked genes and how this relationship integrates into a sexually dimorphic proliferation of PAECs and PAH sex paradox remain challenging. We highlight herein new findings related to how the sex chromosome complement and sex-differentiated epigenetic mechanisms to control gene expression are decisive players in the sexual dimorphism of PAH. Pharmacologic interventions in the light of the newly elucidated mechanisms are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan N Predescu
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Babak Mokhlesi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sanda A Predescu
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Yusifov A, Woulfe KC, Bruns DR. Mechanisms and implications of sex differences in cardiac aging. THE JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR AGING 2022; 2:20. [PMID: 35419571 PMCID: PMC9004711 DOI: 10.20517/jca.2022.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Aging promotes structural and functional remodeling of the heart, even in the absence of external factors. There is growing clinical and experimental evidence supporting the existence of sex-specific patterns of cardiac aging, and in some cases, these sex differences emerge early in life. Despite efforts to identify sex-specific differences in cardiac aging, understanding how these differences are established and regulated remains limited. In addition to contributing to sex differences in age-related heart disease, sex differences also appear to underlie differential responses to cardiac stress such as adrenergic activation. Identifying the underlying mechanisms of sex-specific differences may facilitate the characterization of underlying heart disease phenotypes, with the ultimate goal of utilizing sex-specific therapeutic approaches for cardiac disease. The purpose of this review is to discuss the mechanisms and implications of sex-specific cardiac aging, how these changes render the heart more susceptible to disease, and how we can target age- and sex-specific differences to advance therapies for both male and female patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aykhan Yusifov
- Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Kathleen C. Woulfe
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Danielle R. Bruns
- Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
- Wyoming WWAMI Medical Education, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Modelling Female Physiology from Head to Toe: Impact of Sex Hormones, Menstrual Cycle, and Pregnancy. J Theor Biol 2022; 540:111074. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2022.111074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
23
|
Soranno DE, Baker P, Kirkbride-Romeo L, Wennersten SA, Ding K, Keith B, Cavasin MA, Altmann C, Bagchi RA, Haefner KR, Montford J, Gist KM, Vergnes L, Reue K, He Z, Elajaili H, Okamura K, Nozik E, McKinsey TA, Faubel S. Female and male mice have differential longterm cardiorenal outcomes following a matched degree of ischemia-reperfusion acute kidney injury. Sci Rep 2022; 12:643. [PMID: 35022484 PMCID: PMC8755805 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04701-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in patients, causes systemic sequelae, and predisposes patients to long-term cardiovascular disease. To date, studies of the effects of AKI on cardiovascular outcomes have only been performed in male mice. We recently demonstrated that male mice developed diastolic dysfunction, hypertension and reduced cardiac ATP levels versus sham 1 year after AKI. The effects of female sex on long-term cardiac outcomes after AKI are unknown. Therefore, we examined the 1-year cardiorenal outcomes following a single episode of bilateral renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in female C57BL/6 mice using a model with similar severity of AKI and performed concomitantly to recently published male cohorts. To match the severity of AKI between male and female mice, females received 34 min of ischemia time compared to 25 min in males. Serial renal function, echocardiograms and blood pressure assessments were performed throughout the 1-year study. Renal histology, and cardiac and plasma metabolomics and mitochondrial function in the heart and kidney were evaluated at 1 year. Measured glomerular filtration rates (GFR) were similar between male and female mice throughout the 1-year study period. One year after AKI, female mice had preserved diastolic function, normal blood pressure, and preserved levels of cardiac ATP. Compared to males, females demonstrated pathway enrichment in arginine metabolism and amino acid related energy production in both the heart and plasma, and glutathione in the plasma. Cardiac mitochondrial respiration in Complex I of the electron transport chain demonstrated improved mitochondrial function in females compared to males, regardless of AKI or sham. This is the first study to examine the long-term cardiac effects of AKI on female mice and indicate that there are important sex-related cardiorenal differences. The role of female sex in cardiovascular outcomes after AKI merits further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E Soranno
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Nephrology, University of Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave, Box #328, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Division of Renal Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Peter Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Genetics & Metabolism, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lara Kirkbride-Romeo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Nephrology, University of Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave, Box #328, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sara A Wennersten
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathy Ding
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brysen Keith
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Maria A Cavasin
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Christopher Altmann
- Division of Renal Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rushita A Bagchi
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Korey R Haefner
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - John Montford
- Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Katja M Gist
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Laurent Vergnes
- Department of Human Genetics and Metabolism Theme Area, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Karen Reue
- Department of Human Genetics and Metabolism Theme Area, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhibin He
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Nephrology, University of Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave, Box #328, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Hanan Elajaili
- Department of Pediatrics, Critical Care Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kayo Okamura
- Division of Renal Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Eva Nozik
- Department of Pediatrics, Critical Care Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Timothy A McKinsey
- Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sarah Faubel
- Division of Renal Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Taylor AM, Chadwick CI, Mehrabani S, Hrncir H, Arnold AP, Evans CJ. Sex differences in kappa opioid receptor antinociception is influenced by the number of X chromosomes in mouse. J Neurosci Res 2022; 100:183-190. [PMID: 32731302 PMCID: PMC8452150 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) agonists produce robust analgesia with minimal abuse liability and are considered promising pharmacological agents to manage chronic pain and itch. The KOR system is also notable for robust differences between the sexes, with females exhibiting lower analgesic response than males. Sexually dimorphic traits can be due to either the influence of gonadal hormones during development or adulthood, or due to the complement of genes expressed on the X or Y chromosome. Previous studies examining sex differences in KOR antinociception have relied on surgical or pharmacological manipulation of the gonads to determine whether sex hormones influence KOR function. While there are conflicting reports whether gonadal hormones influence KOR function, no study has examined these effects in context with sex chromosomes. Here, we use two genetic mouse models, the four core genotypes and XY*, to isolate the chromosomal and hormonal contributions to sex differences in KOR analgesia. Mice were treated with systemic KOR agonist (U50,488H) and thermal analgesia measured in the tail withdrawal assay. We found that KOR antinociception was influenced predominantly by the number of the X chromosomes. These data suggest that the dose and/or parental imprint on X gene(s) contribute significantly to the sexually dimorphism in KOR analgesia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna M.W. Taylor
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada,Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Caylin I. Chadwick
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sadaf Mehrabani
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Haley Hrncir
- Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Arthur P. Arnold
- Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Christopher J. Evans
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ferreira C, Trindade F, Ferreira R, Neves JS, Leite-Moreira A, Amado F, Santos M, Nogueira-Ferreira R. Sexual dimorphism in cardiac remodeling: the molecular mechanisms ruled by sex hormones in the heart. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:245-267. [PMID: 34811581 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02169-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is growing in prevalence, due to an increase in aging and comorbidities. Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is more common in men, whereas heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has a higher prevalence in women. However, the reasons for these epidemiological trends are not clear yet. Since HFpEF affects mostly postmenopausal women, sex hormones should play a pivotal role in HFpEF development. Furthermore, for HFpEF, contrary to HFrEF, effective therapeutic approaches are missing. Interestingly, studies evidenced that some therapies can have better results in women than in HFpEF men, emphasizing the necessity of understanding these observations at a molecular level. Thus, herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of estrogen and androgen actions in the heart in physiological conditions and explain how its dysregulation can lead to disease development. This clarification is essential in the road for an effective personalized management of HF, particularly HFpEF, towards the development of sex-specific therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fábio Trindade
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Sérgio Neves
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adelino Leite-Moreira
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Amado
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mário Santos
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Santo António, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Nogueira-Ferreira
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Thomas Q, Crespy V, Duloquin G, Ndiaye M, Sauvant M, Béjot Y, Giroud M. Stroke in women: When gender matters. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2021; 177:881-889. [PMID: 34172293 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Stroke in women may be considered as a distinct entity due to numerous differences compared with men, including specific epidemiological, etiological, and outcome features along with unique pathophysiological mechanisms. Stroke is the second cause of death in women worldwide with sex-specific causes of stroke in youger women such as pregnancy, post-partum period, oral contraception and migraine. Substitutive hormone treatment in older women is no more recommended in regard of the increased thromboembolic risk it generates. Venous thrombolysis with rtPA and mechanical thrombectomy are now proven to be as efficacious in women as in men. After a stroke, women present poorer quality of life than men attributable to age, more severe stroke, pre-stroke dependency and depression. Recent data concerning the latest epidemiological surveys reveal a shift in trends with the rise of incidence of strokes in young women (≤55 years and 64 years) contrasting with the stability of incidence rates in older women. As science is unvealing sex-related differences in cardiovascular disorders, health policies need to be adapted accordingly to improve stroke prevention and pre-stroke health in women. In the meantime, therapeutical trials should include more women in order to be able to formulate adequate management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Q Thomas
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France.
| | - V Crespy
- Dijon Stroke Registry (Inserm-Santé Publique France)-EA7460 (Pathophysiology and Epidemiology of Cerebro-Cardio-Vascular Diseases), University of Burgundy, UBFC, Dijon, France
| | - G Duloquin
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France; Dijon Stroke Registry (Inserm-Santé Publique France)-EA7460 (Pathophysiology and Epidemiology of Cerebro-Cardio-Vascular Diseases), University of Burgundy, UBFC, Dijon, France
| | - M Ndiaye
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France
| | - M Sauvant
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France
| | - Y Béjot
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France; Dijon Stroke Registry (Inserm-Santé Publique France)-EA7460 (Pathophysiology and Epidemiology of Cerebro-Cardio-Vascular Diseases), University of Burgundy, UBFC, Dijon, France
| | - M Giroud
- Department of General, Vascular and Degenerative Neurology, CHU Dijon, Bourgogne, France; Dijon Stroke Registry (Inserm-Santé Publique France)-EA7460 (Pathophysiology and Epidemiology of Cerebro-Cardio-Vascular Diseases), University of Burgundy, UBFC, Dijon, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Phosphoproteomic response of cardiac endothelial cells to ischemia and ultrasound. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2021; 1869:140683. [PMID: 34119693 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2021.140683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Myocardial infarction and subsequent therapeutic interventions activate numerous intracellular cascades in every constituent cell type of the heart. Endothelial cells produce several protective compounds in response to therapeutic ultrasound, under both normoxic and ischemic conditions. How endothelial cells sense ultrasound and convert it to a beneficial biological response is not known. We adopted a global, unbiased phosphoproteomics approach aimed at understanding how endothelial cells respond to ultrasound. Here, we use primary cardiac endothelial cells to explore the cellular signaling events underlying the response to ischemia-like cellular injury and ultrasound exposure in vitro. Enriched phosphopeptides were analyzed with a high mass accuracy liquid chromatrography (LC) - tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) proteomic platform, yielding multiple alterations in both total protein levels and phosphorylation events in response to ischemic injury and ultrasound. Application of pathway algorithms reveals numerous protein networks recruited in response to ultrasound including those regulating RNA splicing, cell-cell interactions and cytoskeletal organization. Our dataset also permits the informatic prediction of potential kinases responsible for the modifications detected. Taken together, our findings begin to reveal the endothelial proteomic response to ultrasound and suggest potential targets for future studies of the protective effects of ultrasound in the ischemic heart.
Collapse
|
28
|
Deegan DF, Nigam P, Engel N. Sexual Dimorphism of the Heart: Genetics, Epigenetics, and Development. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:668252. [PMID: 34124200 PMCID: PMC8189176 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.668252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The democratization of genomic technologies has revealed profound sex biases in expression patterns in every adult tissue, even in organs with no conspicuous differences, such as the heart. With the increasing awareness of the disparities in cardiac pathophysiology between males and females, there are exciting opportunities to explore how sex differences in the heart are established developmentally. Although sexual dimorphism is traditionally attributed to hormonal influence, expression and epigenetic sex biases observed in early cardiac development can only be accounted for by the difference in sex chromosome composition, i.e., XX in females and XY in males. In fact, genes linked to the X and Y chromosomes, many of which encode regulatory factors, are expressed in cardiac progenitor cells and at every subsequent developmental stage. The effect of the sex chromosome composition may explain why many congenital heart defects originating before gonad formation exhibit sex biases in presentation, mortality, and morbidity. Some transcriptional and epigenetic sex biases established soon after fertilization persist in cardiac lineages, suggesting that early epigenetic events are perpetuated beyond early embryogenesis. Importantly, when sex hormones begin to circulate, they encounter a cardiac genome that is already functionally distinct between the sexes. Although there is a wealth of knowledge on the effects of sex hormones on cardiac function, we propose that sex chromosome-linked genes and their downstream targets also contribute to the differences between male and female hearts. Moreover, identifying how hormones influence sex chromosome effects, whether antagonistically or synergistically, will enhance our understanding of how sex disparities are established. We also explore the possibility that sexual dimorphism of the developing heart predicts sex-specific responses to environmental signals and foreshadows sex-biased health-related outcomes after birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nora Engel
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Fels Institute for Cancer Research, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bhargava A, Arnold AP, Bangasser DA, Denton KM, Gupta A, Hilliard Krause LM, Mayer EA, McCarthy M, Miller WL, Raznahan A, Verma R. Considering Sex as a Biological Variable in Basic and Clinical Studies: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:219-258. [PMID: 33704446 PMCID: PMC8348944 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In May 2014, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) stated its intent to "require applicants to consider sex as a biological variable (SABV) in the design and analysis of NIH-funded research involving animals and cells." Since then, proposed research plans that include animals routinely state that both sexes/genders will be used; however, in many instances, researchers and reviewers are at a loss about the issue of sex differences. Moreover, the terms sex and gender are used interchangeably by many researchers, further complicating the issue. In addition, the sex or gender of the researcher might influence study outcomes, especially those concerning behavioral studies, in both animals and humans. The act of observation may change the outcome (the "observer effect") and any experimental manipulation, no matter how well-controlled, is subject to it. This is nowhere more applicable than in physiology and behavior. The sex of established cultured cell lines is another issue, in addition to aneuploidy; chromosomal numbers can change as cells are passaged. Additionally, culture medium contains steroids, growth hormone, and insulin that might influence expression of various genes. These issues often are not taken into account, determined, or even considered. Issues pertaining to the "sex" of cultured cells are beyond the scope of this Statement. However, we will discuss the factors that influence sex and gender in both basic research (that using animal models) and clinical research (that involving human subjects), as well as in some areas of science where sex differences are routinely studied. Sex differences in baseline physiology and associated mechanisms form the foundation for understanding sex differences in diseases pathology, treatments, and outcomes. The purpose of this Statement is to highlight lessons learned, caveats, and what to consider when evaluating data pertaining to sex differences, using 3 areas of research as examples; it is not intended to serve as a guideline for research design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Bhargava
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Debra A Bangasser
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kate M Denton
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Arpana Gupta
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lucinda M Hilliard Krause
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emeran A Mayer
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Margaret McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Walter L Miller
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Armin Raznahan
- Section on Developmental Neurogenomics, Human Genetics Branch, National Institutes of Mental Health, Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ragini Verma
- Diffusion and Connectomics In Precision Healthcare Research (DiCIPHR) lab, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Wehbe Z, Hammoud SH, Yassine HM, Fardoun M, El-Yazbi AF, Eid AH. Molecular and Biological Mechanisms Underlying Gender Differences in COVID-19 Severity and Mortality. Front Immunol 2021; 12:659339. [PMID: 34025658 PMCID: PMC8138433 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.659339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, over two million people have perished due to the recent pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. The available epidemiological global data for SARS-CoV-2 portrays a higher rate of severity and mortality in males. Analyzing gender differences in the host mechanisms involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection and progression may offer insight into the more detrimental disease prognosis and clinical outcome in males. Therefore, we outline sexual dimorphisms which exist in particular host factors and elaborate on how they may contribute to the pronounced severity in male COVID-19 patients. This includes disparities detected in comorbidities, the ACE2 receptor, renin-angiotensin system (RAS), signaling molecules involved in SARS-CoV-2 replication, proteases which prime viral S protein, the immune response, and behavioral considerations. Moreover, we discuss sexual disparities associated with other viruses and a possible gender-dependent response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. By specifically highlighting these immune-endocrine processes as well as behavioral factors that differentially exist between the genders, we aim to offer a better understanding in the variations of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zena Wehbe
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Safaa Hisham Hammoud
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Manal Fardoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ahmed F. El-Yazbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ali H. Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qatar University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, Qatar University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Qi S, Al Mamun A, Ngwa C, Romana S, Ritzel R, Arnold AP, McCullough LD, Liu F. X chromosome escapee genes are involved in ischemic sexual dimorphism through epigenetic modification of inflammatory signals. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:70. [PMID: 33712031 PMCID: PMC7953638 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke is a sexually dimorphic disease. Previous studies have found that young females are protected against ischemia compared to males, partially due to the protective effect of ovarian hormones, particularly estrogen (E2). However, there are also genetic and epigenetic effects of X chromosome dosage that contribute to stroke sensitivity and neuroinflammation after injury, especially in the aged. Genes that escape from X chromosome inactivation (XCI) contribute to sex-specific phenotypes in many disorders. Kdm5c and kdm6a are X escapee genes that demethylate H3K4me3 and H3K27me3, respectively. We hypothesized that the two demethylases play critical roles in mediating the stroke sensitivity. METHODS To identify the X escapee genes involved in stroke, we performed RNA-seq in flow-sorted microglia from aged male and female wild type (WT) mice subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The expression of these genes (kdm5c/kdm6a) were confirmed in four core genotypes (FCG) mice and in post-mortem human stroke brains by immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blot, and RT-PCR. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were conducted to detect DNA levels of inflammatory interferon regulatory factor (IRF) 4/5 precipitated by histone H3K4 and H3K27 antibodies. Manipulation of kdm5c/kdm6a expression with siRNA or lentivirus was performed in microglial culture, to determine downstream pathways and examine the regulatory roles in inflammatory cytokine production. RESULTS Kdm5c and kdm6a mRNA levels were significantly higher in aged WT female vs. male microglia, and the sex difference also existed in ischemic brains from FCG mice and human stroke patients. The ChIP assay showed the IRF 4/5 had higher binding levels to demethylated H3K4 or H3K27, respectively, in female vs. male ischemic microglia. Knockdown or over expression of kdm5c/kdm6a with siRNA or lentivirus altered the methylation of H3K4 or H3K27 at the IRF4/5 genes, which in turn, impacted the production of inflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSIONS The KDM-Histone-IRF pathways are suggested to mediate sex differences in cerebral ischemia. Epigenetic modification of stroke-related genes constitutes an important mechanism underlying the ischemic sexual dimorphism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Qi
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Conelius Ngwa
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sharmeen Romana
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Rodney Ritzel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Shock, Trauma and Anesthesiology Research (STAR) Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, UCLA, 610 Charles Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Louise D McCullough
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fudong Liu
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Arnold AP. Four Core Genotypes and XY* mouse models: Update on impact on SABV research. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 119:1-8. [PMID: 32980399 PMCID: PMC7736196 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The impact of two mouse models is reviewed, the Four Core Genotypes and XY* models. The models are useful for determining if the causes of sex differences in phenotypes are either hormonal or sex chromosomal, or both. Used together, the models also can distinguish between the effects of X or Y chromosome genes that contribute to sex differences in phenotypes. To date, the models have been used to uncover sex chromosome contributions to sex differences in a wide variety of phenotypes, including brain and behavior, autoimmunity and immunity, cardiovascular disease, metabolism, and Alzheimer's Disease. In some cases, use of the models has been a strategy leading to discovery of specific X or Y genes that protect from or exacerbate disease. Sex chromosome and hormonal factors interact, in some cases to reduce the effects of each other. Future progress will come from more extensive application of these models, and development of similar models in other species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, UCLA, 610 Charles Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-7239, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Medzikovic L, Cunningham CM, Li M, Amjedi M, Hong J, Ruffenach G, Eghbali M. Sex differences underlying preexisting cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular injury in COVID-19. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2020; 148:25-33. [PMID: 32835666 PMCID: PMC7442559 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The novel 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), resulting from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronarvirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, typically leads to respiratory failure in severe cases; however, cardiovascular injury is reported to contribute to a substantial proportion of COVID-19 deaths. Preexisting cardiovascular disease (CVD) is among the most common risk factors for hospitalization and death in COVID-19 patients, and the pathogenic mechanisms of COVID-19 disease progression itself may promote the development of cardiovascular injury, increasing risk of in-hospital death. Sex differences in COVID-19 are becoming more apparent as mounting data indicate that males seem to be disproportionately at risk of severe COVID-19 outcome due to preexisting CVD and COVID-19-related cardiovascular injury. In this review, we will provide a basic science perspective on current clinical observations in this rapidly evolving field and discuss the interplay sex differences, preexisting CVD and COVID-19-related cardiac injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lejla Medzikovic
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christine M Cunningham
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Min Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marjan Amjedi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jason Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gregoire Ruffenach
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mansoureh Eghbali
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
McCabe JT, Tucker LB. Sex as a Biological Variable in Preclinical Modeling of Blast-Related Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Neurol 2020; 11:541050. [PMID: 33101170 PMCID: PMC7554632 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.541050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Approaches to furthering our understanding of the bioeffects, behavioral changes, and treatment options following exposure to blast are a worldwide priority. Of particular need is a more concerted effort to employ animal models to determine possible sex differences, which have been reported in the clinical literature. In this review, clinical and preclinical reports concerning blast injury effects are summarized in relation to sex as a biological variable (SABV). The review outlines approaches that explore the pertinent role of sex chromosomes and gonadal steroids for delineating sex as a biological independent variable. Next, underlying biological factors that need exploration for blast effects in light of SABV are outlined, including pituitary, autonomic, vascular, and inflammation factors that all have evidence as having important SABV relevance. A major second consideration for the study of SABV and preclinical blast effects is the notable lack of consistent model design—a wide range of devices have been employed with questionable relevance to real-life scenarios—as well as poor standardization for reporting of blast parameters. Hence, the review also provides current views regarding optimal design of shock tubes for approaching the problem of primary blast effects and sex differences and outlines a plan for the regularization of reporting. Standardization and clear description of blast parameters will provide greater comparability across models, as well as unify consensus for important sex difference bioeffects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T McCabe
- Pre-clinical Studies Core, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, IL, United States.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laura B Tucker
- Pre-clinical Studies Core, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, IL, United States.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wistuba J, Beumer C, Warmeling AS, Sandhowe-Klaverkamp R, Stypmann J, Kuhlmann M, Holtmeier R, Damm OS, Tüttelmann F, Gromoll J. Testicular blood supply is altered in the 41,XX Y* Klinefelter syndrome mouse model. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14369. [PMID: 32873847 PMCID: PMC7462989 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71377-0] [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: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism is a major feature of Klinefelter syndrome (KS), assumed to be caused by testicular hormone resistance. It was previously shown that intratesticular testosterone levels in vivo and Leydig cell function in vitro seem to be normal indicating other functional constraints. We hypothesized that impaired testicular vascularization/blood flow could be a co-factor to the observed hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. We evaluated the testicular vascular system by measuring blood vessel sizes during postnatal development and testis blood flow in adult 41,XXY* mice. Proportional distribution and size of blood vessels were analyzed during testicular development (1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 21 dpp, 15 wpp). While ratios of the vessel/testis area were different at 15 wpp only, a lower number of smaller and mid-sized blood vessels were detected in adult KS mice. For testicular blood flow determination we applied contrast enhanced ultrasound. Floating and reperfusion time for testicular blood flow was increased in 41,XXY* mice (floating: XY* 28.8 ± 1.69 s vs XXY* 44.6 ± 5.6 s, p = 0.0192; reperfusion XY* 19.7 ± 2.8 s vs XXY*: 29.9 ± 6.2 s, p = 0.0134), indicating a diminished blood supply. Our data strengthen the concept that an impaired vascularization either in conjunction or as a result of altered KS testicular architecture contributes to hormone resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Wistuba
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany.
| | - Cristin Beumer
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Ann-Sophie Warmeling
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Reinhild Sandhowe-Klaverkamp
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Jörg Stypmann
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Building A1, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Michael Kuhlmann
- European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI), University of Münster, Waldeyerstraße 15, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Richard Holtmeier
- European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI), University of Münster, Waldeyerstraße 15, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Oliver S Damm
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Vesaliusweg 12-14, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, University Clinics, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149, Munster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Perrino C, Ferdinandy P, Bøtker HE, Brundel BJJM, Collins P, Davidson SM, den Ruijter HM, Engel FB, Gerdts E, Girao H, Gyöngyösi M, Hausenloy DJ, Lecour S, Madonna R, Marber M, Murphy E, Pesce M, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Sluijter JPG, Steffens S, Gollmann-Tepeköylü C, Van Laake LW, Van Linthout S, Schulz R, Ytrehus K. Improving translational research in sex-specific effects of comorbidities and risk factors in ischaemic heart disease and cardioprotection: position paper and recommendations of the ESC Working Group on Cellular Biology of the Heart. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 117:367-385. [PMID: 32484892 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) is a complex disorder and a leading cause of death and morbidity in both men and women. Sex, however, affects several aspects of IHD, including pathophysiology, incidence, clinical presentation, diagnosis as well as treatment and outcome. Several diseases or risk factors frequently associated with IHD can modify cellular signalling cascades, thus affecting ischaemia/reperfusion injury as well as responses to cardioprotective interventions. Importantly, the prevalence and impact of risk factors and several comorbidities differ between males and females, and their effects on IHD development and prognosis might differ according to sex. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these differences are still poorly understood, and their identification might have important translational implications in the prediction or prevention of risk of IHD in men and women. Despite this, most experimental studies on IHD are still undertaken in animal models in the absence of risk factors and comorbidities, and assessment of potential sex-specific differences are largely missing. This ESC WG Position Paper will discuss: (i) the importance of sex as a biological variable in cardiovascular research, (ii) major biological mechanisms underlying sex-related differences relevant to IHD risk factors and comorbidities, (iii) prospects and pitfalls of preclinical models to investigate these associations, and finally (iv) will provide recommendations to guide future research. Although gender differences also affect IHD risk in the clinical setting, they will not be discussed in detail here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Perrino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Péter Ferdinandy
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, 1089 Budapest, Hungary.,Pharmahungary Group, Hajnoczy str. 6., H-6722 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Hans E Bøtker
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Blvd. 161, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bianca J J M Brundel
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1108 HV, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Collins
- Imperial College, Faculty of Medicine, National Heart & Lung Institute, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney St, Chelsea, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Sean M Davidson
- The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, 67 Chenies Mews, WC1E 6HX London, UK
| | - Hester M den Ruijter
- Experimental Cardiology Laboratory, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Felix B Engel
- Experimental Renal and Cardiovascular Research, Department of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Muscle Research Center Erlangen (MURCE), Schwabachanlage 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eva Gerdts
- Department for Clinical Science, University of Bergen, PO Box 7804, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Henrique Girao
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, and Clinical Academic Centre of Coimbra (CACC), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariann Gyöngyösi
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Derek J Hausenloy
- Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, 5 Hospital Drive, 169609, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119228, Singapore.,The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, 67 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK.,Cardiovascular Research Center, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, 500, Lioufeng Rd., Wufeng, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Sandrine Lecour
- Hatter Institute for Cardiovascular Research in Africa, Faculty of Health Sciences, Chris Barnard Building, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3 7935 Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rosalinda Madonna
- Institute of Cardiology, University of Pisa, Lungarno Antonio Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical School in Houston, 6410 Fannin St #1014, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Michael Marber
- King's College London BHF Centre, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Elizabeth Murphy
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Cardiovascular Branch, NHLBI, NIH, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Maurizio Pesce
- Unità di Ingegneria Tissutale Cardiovascolare, Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS Via Parea, 4, I-20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Berlin Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, DZHK, partner site Berlin, Geschäftsstelle Potsdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany.,University of Zürich, Rämistrasse 71, 8006 Zürich, Germany
| | - Joost P G Sluijter
- Experimental Cardiology Laboratory, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 8, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Circulatory Health Laboratory, Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 8, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sabine Steffens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention and German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Pettenkoferstr. 9, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr.35, A - 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Linda W Van Laake
- Cardiology and UMC Utrecht Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sophie Van Linthout
- Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité, University Medicine Berlin, 10178 Berlin, Germany.,Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité, University Medicine Berlin, 10178 Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Ludwigstraße 23, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Kirsti Ytrehus
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Hansine Hansens veg 18, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Arnold AP. Sexual differentiation of brain and other tissues: Five questions for the next 50 years. Horm Behav 2020; 120:104691. [PMID: 31991182 PMCID: PMC7440839 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper is part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of founding of the journal Hormones and Behavior, the official journal of the Society for Behavioral Neuroendocrinology. All sex differences in phenotypic development stem from the sexual imbalance in X and Y chromosomes, which are the only known differences in XX and XY zygotes. The sex chromosome genes act within cells to cause differences in phenotypes of XX and XY cells throughout the body. In the gonad, they determine the type of gonad, leading to differences in secretion of testicular vs. ovarian hormones, which cause further sex differences in tissue function. These current ideas of sexual differentiation are briefly contrasted with a hormones-only view of sexual differentiation of the last century. The multiple, independent action of diverse sex-biasing agents means that sex-biased factors can be synergistic, increasing sex differences, or compensatory, making the two sexes more equal. Several animal models have been fruitful in demonstrating sex chromosome effects, and interactions with gonadal hormones. MRI studies of human brains demonstrate variation in brain structure associated with both differences in gonadal hormones, and in the number of X and Y chromosomes. Five unanswered questions are posed as a challenge to future investigators to improve understanding of sexual differentiation throughout the body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur P Arnold
- Department Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Feldman RD. Sex-Specific Determinants of Coronary Artery Disease and Atherosclerotic Risk Factors: Estrogen and Beyond. Can J Cardiol 2020; 36:706-711. [PMID: 32389343 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2020.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The way we view coronary artery disease in women has changed dramatically over the past decades. From an initial perspective that coronary artery disease was a male disorder and that women were protected by estrogens, there has been the gradual appreciation that this is an equal opportunity disease. Postmenopausal women are more likely than men to be hypertensive, dyslipidemic, and have multiple risk factors. Beyond the appreciation of estrogen's global effects on cardiovascular and metabolic function, our further advances in the understanding of sex-specific risks and management will be based on a greater understanding of the diversity of estrogen-mediated receptor pathways, including appreciation of the sometimes divergent effects of estrogen when acting either via the classic estrogen receptor or the more recently appreciated G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. In addition, the importance of sex-specific regulation of cardiometabolic processes beyond the sex hormones, specifically via SRY regulation, is only beginning to be understood. Finally, the author summarizes his recent studies demonstrating sex-specific G protein-coupled estrogen receptor regulation of blood pressure and cholesterol metabolism that may serve as a paradigm for the elucidation of sex-specific determinants of cardiovascular risk and the basis for sex-specific management of those risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross D Feldman
- Departments of Medicine, of Physiology & Pathophysiology, of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Cardiac Sciences Program, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ruiz-Meana M, Boengler K, Garcia-Dorado D, Hausenloy DJ, Kaambre T, Kararigas G, Perrino C, Schulz R, Ytrehus K. Ageing, sex, and cardioprotection. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:5270-5286. [PMID: 31863453 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Translation of cardioprotective interventions aimed at reducing myocardial injury during ischaemia-reperfusion from experimental studies to clinical practice is an important yet unmet need in cardiovascular medicine. One particular challenge facing translation is the existence of demographic and clinical factors that influence the pathophysiology of ischaemia-reperfusion injury of the heart and the effects of treatments aimed at preventing it. Among these factors, age and sex are prominent and have a recognised role in the susceptibility and outcome of ischaemic heart disease. Remarkably, some of the most powerful cardioprotective strategies proven to be effective in young animals become ineffective during ageing. This article reviews the mechanisms and implications of the modulatory effects of ageing and sex on myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury and their potential effects on cardioprotective interventions. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.23/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Ruiz-Meana
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kerstin Boengler
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - David Garcia-Dorado
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Derek J Hausenloy
- Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore.,The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, London, UK.,The National Institute of Health Research, University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Research & Development, London, UK.,Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnologia-FEMSA, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Tuuli Kaambre
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlinand Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cinzia Perrino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kirsti Ytrehus
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Institute of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
DeLeon-Pennell KY, Lindsey ML. Somewhere over the sex differences rainbow of myocardial infarction remodeling: hormones, chromosomes, inflammasome, oh my. Expert Rev Proteomics 2019; 16:933-940. [PMID: 31483157 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2019.1664293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in both men and women. While women are protected until the onset of menopause, after menopause women have increased risk of adverse cardiovascular disease events. Animal models of myocardial infarction recapitulate many of the sex differences observed in humans, and proteomics evaluations offer mechanistic insights to explain sex differences.Areas covered: In this review, we will discuss how proteomics has helped us understand the hormonal, chromosomal, and immune mechanisms behind sex differences in response to ischemic injury and the development of heart failure.Expert opinion: There are a number of ways in which proteomics has and will continue to facilitate our understanding of sex differences in cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Y DeLeon-Pennell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, and Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Merry L Lindsey
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Center for Heart and Vascular Research, University of Nebraska Medical Center, and Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Sickinghe AA, Korporaal SJA, den Ruijter HM, Kessler EL. Estrogen Contributions to Microvascular Dysfunction Evolving to Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:442. [PMID: 31333587 PMCID: PMC6616854 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a syndrome involving microvascular dysfunction. No treatment is available yet and as the HFpEF patient group is expanding due to the aging population, more knowledge on dysfunction of the cardiac microvasculature is required. Endothelial dysfunction, impaired angiogenesis, (perivascular) fibrosis and the pruning of capillaries (rarefaction) may all contribute to microvascular dysfunction in the heart and other organs, e.g., the kidneys. The HFpEF patient group consists mainly of post-menopausal women and female sex itself is a risk factor for this syndrome. This may point toward a role of estrogen depletion after menopause in the development of HFpEF. Estrogens favor the ratio of vasodilating over vasoconstricting factors, which results in an overall lower blood pressure in women than in men. Furthermore, estrogens improve angiogenic capacity and attenuate (perivascular) fibrosis formation. Therefore, we hypothesize that the drop of estrogen levels after menopause contributes to myocardial microvascular dysfunction and renders post-menopausal women more vulnerable for heart diseases that involve the microvasculature. This review provides a detailed summary of molecular targets of estrogen, which might guide future research and treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elise L. Kessler
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Farahmand M, Ramezani Tehrani F, Khalili D, Cheraghi L, Bahri Khomami M, Azizi F. Association between duration of endogenous estrogen exposure and cardiovascular outcomes: A population - based cohort study. Life Sci 2019; 221:335-340. [PMID: 30763578 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Duration of endogenous estrogen exposure is apparently associated with risk of cardiovascular disease, the longer durations being more cardiovascular disease protective in women. We aimed to investigate the association of cumulative duration of endogenous estrogen exposure over women's reproductive lifespans with cardiovascular disease outcomes. MAIN METHODS For the purpose of the present study, of 10,192 female participants, after excluding those using HRT (n = 84), 3656 women, aged ≥30 years, who met eligibility criteria were selected and divided into three groups based on tertiles (T1, T2, T3) of exposure durations to endogenous estrogen. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate associations between exposure durations and cardiovascular disease outcomes. KEY FINDINGS Cardiovascular events occurred in 352 participants over a median follow-up of 14.2 (13.5, 14.6) years (7.7 per 1000 person years; 95% CI: 6.9-8.5). Incidence of outcome was 10.9 per 1000 person years (CI, 9.4-12.8) in T1, 7.2 per 1000 person years (CI, 6.0-8.7) in T2, and 5.1 per 1000 person years (CI, 4.1-6.4) in T3. The hazard ratio of cardiovascular events in T1 was significantly higher than that inT3, before and after adjustment for confounding variables. Before adjustment, women in T2 had a 40% higher risk of CVD, compared to T3; after adjustment however the risk was similar to that of women in T3. SIGNIFICANCE Shorter durations of exposure to endogenous estrogen may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases among these women later in life. Future studies should target women with short duration of exposure for timely screening and implementation of preventative interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Farahmand
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Davood Khalili
- Prevention of Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Cheraghi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Bahri Khomami
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Vic, Australia
| | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Reckelhoff JF. Androgens and Blood Pressure Control: Sex Differences and Mechanisms. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94:536-543. [PMID: 30713048 PMCID: PMC6546172 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The role that androgens play in mediating elevated blood pressure is unclear. Low levels of androgens in men and increased levels of androgens in women, as occurs with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are both associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease and elevated blood pressure. We have used animal models to evaluate the potential mechanisms by which men and women have differential responses to androgens that affect regulation of blood pressure and the implications these may have for the health of men and women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane F Reckelhoff
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Mississippi Center of Excellence in Perinatal Research and Women's Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Paraoxonase 2 protects against acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by modulating mitochondrial function and oxidative stress via the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β RISK pathway. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 129:154-164. [PMID: 30802459 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the novel role of Paraoxonase 2 (PON2) in modulating acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). APPROACH IRI was induced both in vivo and ex vivo in male, C57BL6/J (WT) and PON2-deficient (PON-def) mice. In addition, in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation injury (HRI) was induced in H9c2 cells expressing empty vector (H9c2-EV) or human PON2 (H9c2-hPON2) ± LY294002 (a potent PI3K inhibitor). Infarct size, PON2 gene expression, mitochondrial calcium retention capacity (CRC), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, CHOP and pGSK-3β protein levels, and cell apoptosis were evaluated. RESULTS PON2 gene expression is upregulated in WT mice following in vivo IRI. PON2-def mice exhibit a 2-fold larger infarct, increased CHOP levels, and reduced pGSK-3β levels compared to WT controls. Global cardiac mitochondria isolated from PON2-def mice exhibit reduced CRC and increased ROS production. Cardiomyocytes isolated from PON2-def mice subjected to ex vivo IRI have mitochondria with reduced CRC (also seen under non-IRI conditions), and increased ROS generation and apoptosis compared to WT controls. PON2 knockdown in H9c2 cells subjected to HRI leads to an increase in mitochondrial membrane depolarization. H9c2-hPON2 cells exhibit i) improvement in mitochondrial membrane potential, pGSK-3β levels and mitochondrial CRC, and ii) decrease in CHOP levels, mitochondrial ROS generation and cell apoptosis, when compared to H9c2-EV controls. Treatment with LY294002 resulted in a decrease of mitochondrial CRC and increase in mitochondrial ROS production and cell apoptosis in the H9c2-hPON2 group versus H9c2-EV controls. CONCLUSION PON2 protects against acute myocardial IRI by reducing mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes via activation of the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β RISK pathway.
Collapse
|
45
|
Arnold AP. The mouse as a model of fundamental concepts related to Turner syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2019; 181:76-85. [PMID: 30779420 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although XO mice do not show many of the overt phenotypic features of Turner syndrome (TS; 45,X or XO), mice and humans share different classes of genes on the X chromosome that are more or less likely to cause TS phenotypes. Based on the evolutionary history of the sex chromosomes, and the pattern of dosage balancing among sex chromosomal and autosomal genes in functional gene networks, it is possible to prioritize types of X genes for study as potential causes of features of TS. For example, X-Y gene pairs are among the most interesting because of the convergent effects of X and Y genes that both are likely to prevent the effects of TS in XX and XY individuals. Many of the high-priority genes are shared by mouse and human X chromosomes, but are easier to study in genetically tractable mouse models. Several mouse models, used primarily for the study of sex differences in physiology and disease, also produce XO mice that can be investigated to understand the effects of X monosomy. Using these models will lead to the identification of specific X genes that make a difference when present in one or two copies. These studies will help to achieve a better appreciation of the contribution of these specific X genes to the syndromic features of TS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pan JS, Sheikh-Hamad D. Mitochondrial dysfunction in acute kidney injury and sex-specific implications. MEDICAL RESEARCH ARCHIVES 2019; 7. [PMID: 31276028 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v7i2.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The kidney is one of the most energy-demanding organs in the human body, and the maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis is central to kidney function. Recent advances have led to a greater appreciation of how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of AKI, from decreased ATP production, to enhanced mitochondrial oxidative stress, cell necrosis and apoptosis. Accumulating evidence suggests sexual dimorphism in the response to AKI with males demonstrating greater risk for developing ischemia-reperfusion and sepsis-induced kidney injury. In contrast, females may be more susceptible to nephrotoxic-AKI. There are important sex-related differences in mitochondrial respiration, biogenesis and dynamics that likely contribute to the observed sexual dimorphism in AKI. Sex hormones mediate many of these differences with multiple preclinical studies demonstrating the renoprotective actions of estrogen in many rodent models of AKI. Estrogenic control of mitochondrial biogenesis, function and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation is discussed. Furthermore, the potential role for sex chromosomes in mediating sex differences in AKI is examined. Novel animal models such as the "four core genotypes" (FCG) mouse model provide us with important tools to study sex chromosome effects in kidney health and disease. By understanding the influences of sexual dimorphism or sex hormones on mitochondrial homeostasis and disease manifestations, we may be able to identify novel therapeutic targets and improve existing treatment options for AKI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny S Pan
- Section of Nephrology and Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Selzman Institute for Kidney Health, Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Sheikh-Hamad
- Section of Nephrology and Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Selzman Institute for Kidney Health, Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
Evolution of genetic mechanisms of sex determination led to two processes causing sex differences in somatic phenotypes: gonadal differentiation and sex chromosome dosage inequality. In species with heteromorphic sex chromosomes, the sex of the individual is established at the time of formation of the zygote, leading to inherent sex differences in expression of sex chromosome genes beginning as soon as the embryonic transcriptome is activated. The inequality of sex chromosome gene expression causes sexual differentiation of the gonads and of non-gonadal tissues. The difference in gonad type in turn causes lifelong differences in gonadal hormones, which interact with unequal effects of X and Y genes acting within cells. Separating the effects of gonadal hormones and sex chromosomes has been possible using mouse models in which gonadal determination is separated from the sex chromosomes, allowing comparison of XX and XY mice with the same type of gonad. Sex differences caused by gonadal hormones and sex chromosomes affect basic physiology and disease mechanisms in most or all tissues.
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Fundamental differences exist between males and females, encompassing anatomy, physiology, behaviour, and genetics. Such differences undoubtedly play a part in the well documented, yet poorly understood, disparity in disease susceptibility between the sexes. Although traditionally attributed to gonadal sex hormone effects, recent work has begun to shed more light on the contribution of genetics - and in particular the sex chromosomes - to these sexual dimorphisms. Here, we explore the accumulating evidence for a significant genetic component to mammalian sexual dimorphism through the paradigm of sex chromosome evolution. The differences between the extant X and Y chromosomes, at both a sequence and regulatory level, arose across 166 million years. A functional result of these differences is cell autonomous sexual dimorphism. By understanding the process that changed a pair of homologous ancestral autosomes into the extant mammalian X and Y, we believe it easier to consider the mechanisms that may contribute to hormone-independent male-female differences. We highlight key roles for genes with homologues present on both sex chromosomes, where the X-linked copy escapes X chromosome inactivation. Finally, we summarise current experimental paradigms and suggest areas for developments to further increase our understanding of cell autonomous sexual dimorphism in the context of health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Snell
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - James M A Turner
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Glen Pyle W, Martino TA. Circadian rhythms influence cardiovascular disease differently in males and females: role of sex and gender. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
50
|
Jiao N, Qi Y, Lv C, Li H, Yang F. Identification of protein complexes associated with myocardial infarction using a bioinformatics approach. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:3569-3576. [PMID: 30132549 PMCID: PMC6131540 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Determination of the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease is crucial for identifying possible therapeutic targets and designing effective treatments. On the basis that MI may be caused by dysfunctional protein complexes rather than single genes, the present study aimed to use a bioinformatics approach to identifying complexes that may serve important roles in the development of MI. By investigating the proteins involved in these identified complexes, numerous proteins have been reported that are related to MI, whereas other proteins interacted with MI-related proteins, which implied that these protein complexes may indeed be related to the development of MI. The protein complexes detected in the present study may aid in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie MI pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nianhui Jiao
- Intensive Care Unit, Laiwu People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Yongjie Qi
- Intensive Care Unit, Laiwu People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Changli Lv
- Emergency Department, Laiwu People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Hongjun Li
- Emergency Department, The Central Hospital of Tai'an, Tai'an, Shandong 271000, P.R. China
| | - Fengyong Yang
- Intensive Care Unit, Laiwu People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|