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Fabová Z, Loncová B, Harrath AH, Sirotkin AV. The growth factors amphiregulin and epiregulin are novel stimulators of feline ovarian granulosa cell functions. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14628. [PMID: 38828525 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14628] [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: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of the epidermal growth factor receptor ligands amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG) on the fundamental functions of feline ovarian granulosa cells. Granulosa cells isolated from feline ovaries were incubated with AREG and EREG (0, 0.1, 1 or 10 ng/mL). The effects of these growth factors on cell viability, proliferation (assessed through BrdU incorporation), nuclear apoptosis (evaluated through nuclear DNA fragmentation) and the release of progesterone and estradiol were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, BrdU analysis, TUNEL assays and ELISAs, respectively. Both AREG and EREG increased cell viability, proliferation and steroid hormone release and reduced apoptosis. The present findings suggest that these epidermal growth factor receptor ligands may serve as physiological stimulators of feline ovarian cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Fabová
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Barbora Loncová
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
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2
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Baddela VS, Michaelis M, Tao X, Koczan D, Vanselow J. ERK1/2-SOX9/FOXL2 axis regulates ovarian steroidogenesis and favors the follicular-luteal transition. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202302100. [PMID: 37532283 PMCID: PMC10397509 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302100] [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] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Estradiol and progesterone are the primary sex steroids produced by the ovary. Upon luteinizing hormone surge, estradiol-producing granulosa cells convert into progesterone-producing cells and eventually become large luteal cells of the corpus luteum. Signaling pathways and transcription factors involved in the cessation of estradiol and simultaneous stimulation of progesterone production in granulosa cells are not clearly understood. Here, we decipher that phosphorylated ERK1/2 regulates granulosa cell steroidogenesis by inhibiting estradiol and inducing progesterone production. Down-regulation of transcription factor FOXL2 and up-regulation of SOX9 by ERK underpin its differential steroidogenic function. Interestingly, the incidence of SOX9 is largely uncovered in ovarian cells and is found to regulate FOXL2 along with CYP19A1 and STAR genes, encoding rate-limiting enzymes of steroidogenesis, in cultured granulosa cells. We propose that the novel ERK1/2-SOX9/FOXL2 axis in granulosa cells is a critical regulator of ovarian steroidogenesis and may be considered when addressing pathophysiologies associated with inappropriate steroid production and infertility in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Simha Baddela
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Marten Michaelis
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Xuelian Tao
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Dirk Koczan
- Institute of Immunology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jens Vanselow
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
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3
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Loncová B, Fabová Z, Mlynček M, Sirotkin AV. Assessment of Epiregulin Effect and its Combination with Gonadotropins on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Secretory Activity by Human Ovarian Cells. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z. [PMID: 36881337 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The release of epidermal growth factor ligand epiregulin (EREG) by human ovarian granulosa cells, its direct action on basic ovarian cell functions, and interrelationships with gonadotropins were investigated. We examined (1) the ovarian production of EREG (the time-dependent accumulation of EREG in the medium incubated with human ovarian granulosa cells, and (2) the effect of the addition of EREG (0, 1, 10, and 100 ng.ml-1) given alone or in combination with FSH or LH (100 ng.ml-1) on basic granulosa cells functions. Viability, proliferation (accumulation of PCNA and cyclin B1) and apoptosis (accumulation of bax and caspase 3), the release of steroid hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were analyzed by using the Trypan blue exclusion test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and ELISA. A significant time-dependent accumulation of EREG in a medium cultured with human granulosa cells with a peak at 3 and 4 days was observed. The addition of EREG alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol release, decreased apoptosis, bud did not affect PGE2 release. The addition of either FSH or LH alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and PGE2 release and decreased apoptosis. Furthermore, both FSH and LH mostly promoted the stimulatory action of EREG on granulosa cell functions. These results demonstrated, that EREG produced by ovarian cells can be an autocrine/paracrine stimulator of human ovarian cell functions. Furthermore, they demonstrate the functional interrelationship between EREG and gonadotropins in the control of ovarian functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Loncová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia.
| | - Zuzana Fabová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Mlynček
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
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Lund M, Pearson AC, Sage MAG, Duffy DM. Luteinizing hormone receptor promotes angiogenesis in ovarian endothelial cells of Macaca fascicularis and Homo sapiens†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:258-268. [PMID: 36214501 PMCID: PMC9930396 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac189] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis within the ovarian follicle is an important component of ovulation. New capillary growth is initiated by the ovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone (LH), and angiogenesis is well underway at the time of follicle rupture. LH-stimulated follicular production of vascular growth factors has been shown to promote new capillary formation in the ovulatory follicle. The possibility that LH acts directly on ovarian endothelial cells to promote ovulatory angiogenesis has not been addressed. For these studies, ovaries containing ovulatory follicles were obtained from cynomolgus macaques and used for histological examination of ovarian vascular endothelial cells, and monkey ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (mOMECs) were enriched from ovulatory follicles for in vitro studies. mOMECs expressed LHCGR mRNA and protein, and immunostaining confirmed LHCGR protein in endothelial cells of ovulatory follicles in vivo. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a ligand for LHCGR, increased mOMEC proliferation, migration and capillary-like sprout formation in vitro. Treatment of mOMECs with hCG increased cAMP, a common intracellular signal generated by LHCGR activation. The cAMP analog dibutyryl cAMP increased mOMEC proliferation in the absence of hCG. Both the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor H89 and the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U73122 blocked hCG-stimulated mOMEC proliferation, suggesting that multiple G-proteins may mediate LHCGR action. Human ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (hOMECs) enriched from ovarian aspirates obtained from healthy oocyte donors also expressed LHCGR. hOMECs also migrated and proliferated in response to hCG. Overall, these findings indicate that the LH surge may directly activate ovarian endothelial cells to stimulate angiogenesis of the ovulatory follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merete Lund
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Andrew C Pearson
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Megan A G Sage
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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5
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Fang L, Sun YP, Cheng JC. The role of amphiregulin in ovarian function and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:60. [PMID: 36749397 PMCID: PMC11071807 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphiregulin (AREG) is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor that binds exclusively to the EGF receptor (EGFR). Treatment with luteinizing hormone (LH) and/or human chorionic gonadotropin dramatically induces the expression of AREG in the granulosa cells of the preovulatory follicle. In addition, AREG is the most abundant EGFR ligand in human follicular fluid. Therefore, AREG is considered a predominant propagator that mediates LH surge-regulated ovarian functions in an autocrine and/or paracrine manner. In addition to the well-characterized stimulatory effect of LH on AREG expression, recent studies discovered that several local factors and epigenetic modifications participate in the regulation of ovarian AREG expression. Moreover, aberrant expression of AREG has recently been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of several ovarian diseases, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, increasing evidence has elucidated new applications of AREG in assisted reproductive technology. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of AREG in female reproductive health and disease. Understanding the normal and pathological roles of AREG and elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of AREG regulation of ovarian functions will inform innovative approaches for fertility regulation and the prevention and treatment of ovarian diseases. Therefore, this review summarizes the functional roles of AREG in ovarian function and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Clark ZL, Ruebel ML, Schall PZ, Karl KR, Ireland JJ, Latham KE. Follicular Hyperstimulation Dysgenesis: New Explanation for Adverse Effects of Excessive FSH in Ovarian Stimulation. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqac100. [PMID: 35833461 PMCID: PMC9342683 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
High follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) doses during ovarian stimulation protocols for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are detrimental to ovulatory follicle function and oocyte quality. However, the mechanisms are unclear. In a small ovarian reserve heifer model, excessive FSH doses lead to phenotypic heterogeneity of ovulatory size follicles, with most follicles displaying signs of premature luteinization and a range in severity of abnormalities. By performing whole transcriptome analyses of granulosa cells, cumulus cells, and oocytes from individual follicles of animals given standard or excessive FSH doses, we identified progressive changes in the transcriptomes of the 3 cell types, with increasing severity of follicular abnormality with the excessive doses. The granulosa and cumulus cells each diverged progressively from their normal phenotypes and became highly similar to each other in the more severely affected follicles. Pathway analysis indicates a possible dysregulation of the final stages of folliculogenesis, with processes characteristic of ovulation and luteinization occurring concurrently rather than sequentially in the most severely affected follicles. These changes were associated with disruptions in key pathways in granulosa and cumulus cells, which may account for previously reported reduced estradiol production, enhanced progesterone and oxytocin production and diminished ovulation rates. Predicted deficiencies in oocyte survival, stress response, and fertilization suggest likely reductions in oocyte health, which could further compromise oocyte quality and ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaramasina L Clark
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Meghan L Ruebel
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- USDA-ARS Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center 15 Children’s Way Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
| | - Peter Z Schall
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- University of Michigan Medical School, Department of Human Genetics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kaitlin R Karl
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Takahashi T, Ogiwara K. Signal pathway of LH-induced expression of nuclear progestin receptor in vertebrate ovulation. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 321-322:114025. [PMID: 35292264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2022.114025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear progestin receptor (PGR), which is induced in the follicles destined to undergo ovulation, is believed to be obligatory for rupture of the follicles during ovulation in vertebrates. Studies in some mammals and teleost medaka have revealed the outline of the central signaling pathway that leads to the PGR expression in the preovulatory follicles at ovulation. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on what signaling mediators are involved in the LH-induced follicular expression of PGR at ovulation in these animals. LH-inducibility of follicular PGR expression is conserved. In both group of animals, activation of the LH receptor on the granulosa cell surface with LH commonly results in the increase of intracellular cAMP levels, while the downstream signaling cascades activated by high level of cAMP are totally different between mice and medaka. PGR is currently presumed to be induced via PKA/CREB-mediated transactivation and ERK1/2-dependent signaling in mice, but the receptor is induced via EPAC/RAP and AKT/CREB pathways in the teleost medaka. The differences and similarities in the signaling pathways for PGR expression between them is discussed from comparative and evolutionary aspects. We also discussed questions concerning PGR expression and its regulation needed to be investigated in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.
| | - Katsueki Ogiwara
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
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Kolesarova A, Michalcova K, Roychoudhury S, Baldovska S, Tvrda E, Vasicek J, Chrenek P, Sanislo L, Kren V. Antioxidative effect of dietary flavonoid isoquercitrin on human ovarian granulosa cells HGL5 in vitro. Physiol Res 2021; 70:745-754. [PMID: 34505527 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the effect of dietary flavonoid isoquercitrin on ovarian granulosa cells using the immortalized human cell line HGL5. Cell viability, survival, apoptosis, release of steroid hormones 17beta-estradiol and progesterone, and human transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-beta2) and TGF-beta2 receptor as well as intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were investigated after isoquercitrin treatment at the concentration range of 5-100 microg.ml-1. It did not cause any significant change (p>0.05) in cell viability as studied by AlamarBlue assay in comparison to control. No significant change was observed (p>0.05) in the proportion of live, dead and apoptotic cells as revealed by apoptotic assay using flow cytometry. Similarly, the release of 17beta-estradiol, progesterone, TGF-beta2 and its receptor were not affected significantly (p>0.05) by isoquercitrin as detected by ELISA, in comparison to control. Except for the highest concentration of 100 microg.ml-1, which led to oxidative stress, isoquercitrin exhibited antioxidative activity at lower concentration used in the study (5, 10, 25, and 50 microg.ml-1) by hampering the production of intracellular ROS, in comparison to control, as detected by chemiluminescence assay (p<0.05). Findings of the present study indicate an existence of the antioxidative pathway that involves inhibition of intracellular ROS generation by isoquercitrin in human ovarian granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kolesarova
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic.
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Alaee S, Asadollahpour R, Hosseinzadeh Colagar A, Talaei-Khozani T. The decellularized ovary as a potential scaffold for maturation of preantral ovarian follicles of prepubertal mice. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:413-427. [PMID: 34445905 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1968542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
ABBREVIATIONS GAG: glycosaminoglycan; ECM: extracellular matrix; 2D: two-dimensional; E2: estradiol; P4: progesterone; BMP15: bone morphogenetic protein 15; GDF9: growth differentiation factor 9; ZP2: zona pellucida 2; Gdf9: growth/differentiation factor-9; Bmp6: bone morphogenetic protein 6; Bmp15: bone morphogenetic protein 15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Alaee
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Raheleh Asadollahpour
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | | | - Tahereh Talaei-Khozani
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Yousuf S, Atif F, Espinosa-Garcia C, Harris W, Turan N, Stein DG. Stroke-Induced Peripheral Immune Dysfunction in Vitamin D-Deficient Conditions: Modulation by Progesterone and Vitamin D. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:950-963. [PMID: 33063282 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02129-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency (Ddef) alters morphology and outcomes after a stroke. We investigated the interaction of Ddef following post-stroke systemic inflammation and evaluated whether administration of progesterone (P) or vitamin D (D) will improve outcomes. Ddef rats underwent stroke with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced systemic inflammation. Rats were randomly divided into 9 groups and treated with P, D, or vehicle for 4 days. At day 4, rats were tested on different behavioral parameters. Markers of neuronal inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, white matter integrity, and apoptosis were measured along with immune cell populations from the spleen, thymus, and blood. Severely altered outcomes were observed in the Ddef group compared to the D-sufficient (Dsuf) group. Stroke caused peripheral immune dysfunction in the Dsuf group which was worse in the Ddef group. Systemic inflammation exacerbated injury outcomes in the Dsuf group and these were worse in the Ddef group. Monotherapy with P/D showed beneficial functional effects but the combined treatment showed better outcomes than either alone. Ddef as a comorbid condition with stroke worsens stroke outcomes and can delay functional recovery. Combination treatment with P and D might be promising for future stroke therapeutics in Ddef.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Yousuf
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brain Research Laboratory, Emory University, 615 Michael Street, Room 655A, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Fahim Atif
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brain Research Laboratory, Emory University, 615 Michael Street, Room 655A, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | | | - Wayne Harris
- School of Medicine, Department of Hematology-Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Nefize Turan
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 0211, USA
| | - Donald G Stein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brain Research Laboratory, Emory University, 615 Michael Street, Room 655A, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Knapczyk-Stwora K, Costa MC, Gabriel A, Grzesiak M, Hubalewska-Mazgaj M, Witek P, Koziorowski M, Slomczynska M. A transcriptome approach evaluating effects of neonatal androgen and anti-androgen treatments on regulation of luteal function in sexually mature pigs. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 212:106252. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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12
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Casarini L, Santi D, Brigante G, Simoni M. Two Hormones for One Receptor: Evolution, Biochemistry, Actions, and Pathophysiology of LH and hCG. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:549-592. [PMID: 29905829 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
LH and chorionic gonadotropin (CG) are glycoproteins fundamental to sexual development and reproduction. Because they act on the same receptor (LHCGR), the general consensus has been that LH and human CG (hCG) are equivalent. However, separate evolution of LHβ and hCGβ subunits occurred in primates, resulting in two molecules sharing ~85% identity and regulating different physiological events. Pituitary, pulsatile LH production results in an ~90-minute half-life molecule targeting the gonads to regulate gametogenesis and androgen synthesis. Trophoblast hCG, the "pregnancy hormone," exists in several isoforms and glycosylation variants with long half-lives (hours) and angiogenic potential and acts on luteinized ovarian cells as progestational. The different molecular features of LH and hCG lead to hormone-specific LHCGR binding and intracellular signaling cascades. In ovarian cells, LH action is preferentially exerted through kinases, phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) and phosphorylated AKT (also known as protein kinase B), resulting in irreplaceable proliferative/antiapoptotic signals and partial agonism on progesterone production in vitro. In contrast, hCG displays notable cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated steroidogenic and proapoptotic potential, which is masked by estrogen action in vivo. In vitro data have been confirmed by a large data set from assisted reproduction, because the steroidogenic potential of hCG positively affects the number of retrieved oocytes, and LH affects the pregnancy rate (per oocyte number). Leydig cell in vitro exposure to hCG results in qualitatively similar cAMP/PKA and pERK1/2 activation compared with LH and testosterone. The supposed equivalence of LH and hCG has been disproved by such data, highlighting their sex-specific functions and thus deeming it an oversight caused by incomplete understanding of clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
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13
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Puttabyatappa M, Al-Alem LF, Zakerkish F, Rosewell KL, Brännström M, Curry TE. Induction of Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor 2 by hCG Regulates Periovulatory Gene Expression and Plasmin Activity. Endocrinology 2017; 158:109-120. [PMID: 27813674 PMCID: PMC5412983 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Increased proteolytic activity is a key event that aids in breakdown of the follicular wall to permit oocyte release. How the protease activity is regulated is still unknown. We hypothesize that tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2), a Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor, plays a role in regulating periovulatory proteolytic activity as in other tissues. TFPI2 is secreted into the extracellular matrix (ECM) where it is postulated to regulate physiological ECM remodeling. The expression profile of TFPI2 during the periovulatory period was assessed utilizing a well-characterized human menstrual cycle model and a gonadotropin-primed rat model. Administration of an ovulatory dose of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) increased TFPI2 expression dramatically in human and rat granulosa and theca cells. This increase in Tfpi2 expression in rat granulosa cells required hCG-mediated epidermal growth factor, protein kinase A, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) 1/2, p38 MAPK and protease activated receptor 1-dependent cell signaling. A small interferingRNA-mediated knockdown of TFPI2 in rat granulosa cells resulted in increased plasmin activity in the granulosa cell conditioned media. Knockdown of TFPI2 also reduced expression of multiple genes including interleukin 6 (Il6) and amphiregulin (Areg). Overexpression of TFPI2 using an adenoviral vector partially restored the expression of Il6 and Areg in TFPI2 siRNA treated rat granulosa cells. These data support the hypothesis that TFPI2 is important for moderating plasmin activity and regulating granulosa cell gene expression during the periovulatory period. We, therefore, propose that through these actions, TFPI2 aids in the tissue remodeling taking place during follicular rupture and corpus luteum formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Linah F. Al-Alem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Farnosh Zakerkish
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, and Stockholm IVF, Gothenburg, Sweden SE 405 30
| | - Katherine L. Rosewell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, and Stockholm IVF, Gothenburg, Sweden SE 405 30
| | - Thomas E. Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
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14
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Palmerini MG, Nottola SA, Tunjung WAS, Kadowaki A, Bianchi S, Cecconi S, Sato E, Macchiarelli G. EGF-FSH supplementation reduces apoptosis of pig granulosa cells in co-culture with cumulus-oocyte complexes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 481:159-164. [PMID: 27816448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.10.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In cattle breeding, co-culture with granulosa cells (GCs) is one of the strategies to improve oocyte maturation and fertilization potential, but yields are still suboptimal due to GC apoptosis. We previously set up an in vitro co-culture system of cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COCs) anchored to GC multilayers adhering to the basal lamina (COCGs), in which GC apoptosis was inhibited by FSH supplementation. Here, we assessed the antiapoptotic effect of EGF (5 ng/ml-EGF5) alone or in synergism to FSH (50mU/ml-FSH50) on pig COCGs. COCG morphology, apoptotic rate, procaspase-8 and-9 expression levels and surface ultrastructure were determined. Results showed an increased % of apoptotic GCs in control and EGF5 (≈80%) respect to sampling (≈3%) and caspase-8 and -9 activation. In contrast, apoptotic cells were significantly reduced by FSH50 (≈35%) supplementation, with inactive Procaspase-8 and -9 highly expressed. The pro-survival effect of FSH was strengthened by EGF (EGF5+FSH50), as evidenced by a significant reduction of apoptosis (≈15%) and high expression levels of Procaspase-8 and -9. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that GC multilayers were characterized by round-to-ovoid cells connected each other and to the basal lamina by cytoplasmic projections. Microvilli shortening/thickening/reduction, cytoplasmic projection rarefaction, blebbing of apoptotic bodies and degenerating/atresic GCs were observed in control and EGF5 groups. FSH50 induced the formation of an abundant mucinous matrix, due to granulosa expansion. Blebs and atresic areas were rarely observed. In EGF5+FSH50 group, GCs were well-preserved, richly covered by microvilli and connected by numerous cytoplasmic projections. Degenerative phenomena were rarely observed. In conclusion, EGF in synergism with FSH seems to better counteract GC apoptosis in a co-culture of pig GC multilayers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Dept. of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Dept. of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Woro Anidito Sri Tunjung
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada Indonesia, Indonesia; Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Akane Kadowaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Serena Bianchi
- Dept. of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandra Cecconi
- Dept. of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Eimei Sato
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Dept. of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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15
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Kuokkanen S, Polotsky AJ, Chosich J, Bradford AP, Jasinska A, Phang T, Santoro N, Appt SE. Corpus luteum as a novel target of weight changes that contribute to impaired female reproductive physiology and function. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2016; 62:227-42. [PMID: 27187064 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2016.1173743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Obesity and malnutrition are associated with decreased fecundity in women. Impaired reproductive capacity in obese women is often attributed to anovulation. However, obese women with ovulatory cycles also have reduced fertility, but the etiology of their impaired reproduction is only partially understood. Accumulating evidence suggests that obesity directly impairs oocyte and embryo quality as well as endometrial receptivity. In obese women, urinary progesterone metabolite excretion is decreased, but in excess of what can be explained by suppressed gonadotropin secretion, suggesting that apart from its central effect obesity may directly affect progesterone (P4) production. These observations have led to the novel hypothesis that obesity directly affects corpus luteum (CL) function. Similarly, we hypothesize that weight loss may contribute to luteal dysfunction. Here, we propose a non-human primate model, the vervet monkey, to examine the effect of weight gain and loss on menstrual cycle parameters and CL gene expression. In this model, weight gain and loss did not significantly alter menstrual cyclicity; however, both induced alterations in the CL transcriptome. In the weight gain monkey, we observed that impaired mid-luteal P4 secretion was associated with downregulation of steroidogenic pathways in CL. Collectively, these preliminary findings support our hypothesis that weight gain and loss may contribute to CL dysfunction. The vervet model described and preliminary observations provide a basis for a larger study to address this important question. Understanding the mechanisms by which weight gain and loss contribute to reproductive dysfunction can assist in the development of targeted treatments to enhance women's reproductive capability when it is desired. ABBREVIATIONS CL: corpus luteum; P4: progesterone; E2: estradiol; PDG: pregnanediol 3-glucoronide; LH: luteinizing hormone; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone; GnRH: gonadotropin releasing hormone; BMI: body mass index; qrtPCR: quantitative real-time PCR; PGR: progesterone receptor; ART: assisted reproductive technology; IVF: in vitro fertilization; HPO: hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis; MMPs: matrix metalloproteinases Gene symbols: LH receptor (LHGCR); cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1); 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (HSD3B2); steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR); LDL receptor (LDLR); scavenger receptor B1 (SCARB1); ATP-binding cassette sub-family A member 1 (ABCA1); ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 1 (ABCG1); apolipoprotein A (APOA1); 24 dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24); 3-hydroxy-3-methylglytaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR); vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA); vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC); vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1); and TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP1); amphiregulin (AREG); epiregulin (EREG); CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (CEBPBA); cAMP responsive element binding protein 3-like 1 (CREB3L1); ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospodin type 1 motif 1 (ADAMTS1); matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9); cytochrome b-245 beta polypeptide (CYBB or NOX2); NADH oxidase (NCF2 or NOXA2); Fc fragment of IgG receptor IIb (FCGR2B); Fc fragment of IgG receptor IIb (FCGR2C); ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1); RAB27A member RAS oncofamily (RAB27A); hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (HPGD); prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase 1 (PTGS1); integrin B2 (ITGB2); leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H); radixin (RDX); ezrin (EZR); nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 2 (NR5A2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Satu Kuokkanen
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Montefiore Medical Center , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , New York , USA
| | - Alex J Polotsky
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Colorado Denver , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Justin Chosich
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Colorado Denver , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Andrew P Bradford
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Colorado Denver , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Anna Jasinska
- c Center of Neurobehavioral Genetics , University of California at Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Tzu Phang
- d Department of Medicine , University of Colorado Denver , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Colorado Denver , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Susan E Appt
- e Department of Pathology (Comparative Medicine) , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
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16
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Ting AY, Xu J, Stouffer RL. Differential effects of estrogen and progesterone on development of primate secondary follicles in a steroid-depleted milieu in vitro. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1907-17. [PMID: 26040480 PMCID: PMC4507328 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the direct effects of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) on the development and function of primate follicles in vitro from the pre-antral to early antral stage? SUMMARY ANSWER In a steroid-depleted milieu, E2 improved follicle survival, growth, antrum formation and oocyte health, whereas P4 exerted minimal beneficial effects on follicle survival and reduced oocyte health. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Effects of P4 and E2 on follicle development have been studied primarily in large antral and pre-ovulatory follicles. Chronic P4 exposure suppresses antral follicle growth, but acute P4 exposure promotes oocyte maturation in pre-ovulatory follicles. Effects of E2 can be stimulatory or inhibitory depending upon species, dose and duration of exposure. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Non-human primate model, randomized, control versus treatment. Macaque (n = 6) secondary follicles (n = 24 per animal per treatment group) were cultured for 5 weeks. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Adult rhesus macaque secondary follicles were encapsulated in 0.25% alginate and cultured individually in media containing follicle stimulating hormone plus (i) vehicle, (ii) a steroid-synthesis inhibitor, trilostane (TRL, 250 ng/ml), (iii) TRL + low E2 (100 pg/ml) or progestin (P, 10 ng/ml R5020) and (iv) TRL + high E2 (1 ng/ml E2) or P (100 ng/ml R5020). Follicles reaching the antral stage (≥750 µm) were treated with human chorionic gonadotrophin for 34 h. End-points included follicle survival, antrum formation, growth pattern, plus oocyte health and maturation status, as well as media concentrations of P4, E2 and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In a steroid-depleted milieu, low dose, but not high dose, P improved (P < 0.05) follicle survival, but had no effect (P > 0.05) on antrum formation and AMH production. Low-dose P increased (P < 0.05) P4 production in fast-grow follicles, and both doses of P elevated (P < 0.05) E2 production in slow-grow follicles. Additionally, low-dose P increased (P < 0.05) the percentage of no-grow follicles, and high-dose P promoted oocyte degeneration. In contrast, E2, in a steroid-depleted milieu, improved (P < 0.05) follicle survival, growth, antrum formation and oocyte health. E2 had no effect on P4 or E2 production. Follicles exposed to E2 yielded mature oocytes capable of fertilization and early cleavage, at a rate similar to untreated control follicles. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited to in vitro effects of P and E2 during the interval from the secondary to small antral stage of macaque follicles. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study provides novel information on the direct actions of P4 and E2 on primate pre-antral follicle development. Combined with our previous report on the actions of androgens, our findings suggest that androgens appear to be a survival factor but hinder antral follicle differentiation, E2 appears to be a survival and growth factor at the pre-antral and early antral stage, whereas P4 may not be essential during early folliculogenesis in primates. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS NIH P50 HD071836 (NCTRI), NIH ORWH/NICHD 2K12HD043488 (BIRCWH), ONPRC 8P51OD011092. There are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Y Ting
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - J Xu
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - R L Stouffer
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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17
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Zhan L, Zheng L, Hosoi T, Okuma Y, Nomura Y. Stress-induced neuroprotective effects of epiregulin and amphiregulin. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118280. [PMID: 25675253 PMCID: PMC4326420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the epidermal growth factor family play important roles in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, and survival. However, the specific roles of each epidermal growth factor family member with respect to brain injury are not well understood. Gene chip assay screens have revealed drastic increases in the expression of the epidermal growth factor family members amphiregulin and epiregulin following lipopolysaccharide stimulation, which activates an immune response. Both immune activity and endoplasmic reticulum stress are activated during cerebral ischemia. We found that the expression levels of amphiregulin and epiregulin were significantly increased under conditions of cerebral ischemia. Because endoplasmic reticulum stress increased the expression of amphiregulin and epiregulin in glial cells, endoplasmic reticulum stress may be a key mediatory factor of pathophysiological activity. Recombinant epiregulin and amphiregulin proteins effectively inhibited endoplasmic reticulum stress and the subsequent induction of neuronal cell death. Therefore, the upregulation of the epidermal growth factor family members epiregulin and amphiregulin may play a critical role in preventing endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced cell death, thus providing a potential therapy for brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libin Zhan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- College (Institute) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Luping Zheng
- College (Institute) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Toru Hosoi
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yasunobu Okuma
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba Institute of Sciences, Choshi, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Nomura
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan
- * E-mail:
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18
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Puttabyatappa M, Jacot TA, Al-Alem LF, Rosewell KL, Duffy DM, Brännström M, Curry TE. Ovarian membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases: induction of MMP14 and MMP16 during the periovulatory period in the rat, macaque, and human. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:34. [PMID: 24920038 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.115717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
An intrafollicular increase in proteolytic activity drives ovulatory events. Surprisingly, the periovulatory expression profile of the membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs), unique proteases anchored to the cell surface, has not been extensively examined. Expression profiles of the MT-MMPs were investigated in ovarian tissue from well-characterized rat and macaque periovulatory models and naturally cycling women across the periovulatory period. Among the six known MT-MMPs, mRNA expression of Mmp14, Mmp16, and Mmp25 was increased after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration in rats. In human granulosa cells, mRNA expression of MMP14 and MMP16 increased following hCG treatment. In contrast, mRNA levels of MMP16 and MMP25 in human theca cells were unchanged before ovulation but declined by the postovulatory stage. In macaque granulosa cells, hCG increased mRNA for MMP16 but not MMP14. Immunoblotting showed that protein levels of MMP14 and MMP16 in rats increased, similar to their mRNA expression. In macaque granulosa cells, only the active form of the MMP14 protein increased after hCG, unlike its mRNA or the proprotein. By immunohistochemistry, both MMP14 and MMP16 localized to the different ovarian cell types in rats and humans. Treatment with hCG resulted in intense immunoreactivity of MMP14 and MMP16 proteins in the granulosa and theca cells. The present study shows that MMP14 and MMP16 are increased by hCG administration in the ovulating follicle, demonstrating that these MMPs are conserved among rats, macaques, and humans. These findings suggest that MT-MMPs could have an important role in promoting ovulation and remodeling of the ovulated follicle into the corpus luteum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Terry A Jacot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Linah F Al-Alem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Katherine L Rosewell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thomas E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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