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Roggenbuck EC, Hall EA, Hanson IB, Roby AA, Zhang KK, Alkatib KA, Carter JA, Clewner JE, Gelfius AL, Gong S, Gordon FR, Iseler JN, Kotapati S, Li M, Maysun A, McCormick EO, Rastogi G, Sengupta S, Uzoma CU, Wolkov MA, Clowney EJ. Let's talk about sex: Mechanisms of neural sexual differentiation in Bilateria. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1636. [PMID: 38185860 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1636] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
In multicellular organisms, sexed gonads have evolved that facilitate release of sperm versus eggs, and bilaterian animals purposefully combine their gametes via mating behaviors. Distinct neural circuits have evolved that control these physically different mating events for animals producing eggs from ovaries versus sperm from testis. In this review, we will describe the developmental mechanisms that sexually differentiate neural circuits across three major clades of bilaterian animals-Ecdysozoa, Deuterosomia, and Lophotrochozoa. While many of the mechanisms inducing somatic and neuronal sex differentiation across these diverse organisms are clade-specific rather than evolutionarily conserved, we develop a common framework for considering the developmental logic of these events and the types of neuronal differences that produce sex-differentiated behaviors. This article is categorized under: Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Roggenbuck
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elijah A Hall
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Isabel B Hanson
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Alyssa A Roby
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Katherine K Zhang
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kyle A Alkatib
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Joseph A Carter
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jarred E Clewner
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anna L Gelfius
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Shiyuan Gong
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Finley R Gordon
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jolene N Iseler
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Samhita Kotapati
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marilyn Li
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Areeba Maysun
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elise O McCormick
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Geetanjali Rastogi
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Srijani Sengupta
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chantal U Uzoma
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Madison A Wolkov
- MCDB 464 - Cellular Diversity: Sex Differentiation of the Brain, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - E Josephine Clowney
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute Affiliate, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Evans MC, Anderson GM. The Role of RFRP Neurons in the Allostatic Control of Reproductive Function. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15851. [PMID: 37958834 PMCID: PMC10648169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115851] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive function is critical for species survival; however, it is energetically costly and physically demanding. Reproductive suppression is therefore a physiologically appropriate adaptation to certain ecological, environmental, and/or temporal conditions. This 'allostatic' suppression of fertility enables individuals to accommodate unfavorable reproductive circumstances and safeguard survival. The mechanisms underpinning this reproductive suppression are complex, yet culminate with the reduced secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn suppresses gonadotropin release from the pituitary, thereby impairing gonadal function. The focus of this review will be on the role of RFamide-related peptide (RFRP) neurons in different examples of allostatic reproductive suppression. RFRP neurons release the RFRP-3 peptide, which negatively regulates GnRH neurons and thus appears to act as a 'brake' on the neuroendocrine reproductive axis. In a multitude of predictable (e.g., pre-puberty, reproductive senescence, and seasonal or lactational reproductive quiescence) and unpredictable (e.g., metabolic, immune and/or psychosocial stress) situations in which GnRH secretion is suppressed, the RFRP neurons have been suggested to act as modulators. This review examines evidence for and against these roles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Greg M. Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand;
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Ding Y, Jiang X, Jing H, Liu G, Cheng J. Recombinant HBsAg-S and RFRP-3 DNA vaccine promotes reproduction hormone secretion in sheep. Theriogenology 2023; 201:68-75. [PMID: 36842263 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
RF-amide related peptides (RFRP) have been proposed as critical regulators of gonadotropin secretion in mammals. This study was designed to construct a DNA vaccine and investigate the effect of vaccine encoding RFRP-3 on reproduction physiology in ewe. A recombinant vaccine was constructed using two copies of the RFRP-3 gene and HBsAg-S that generate a fusion protein to induce an immunology response. Results showed this recombinant vaccine could produce a significant antibody titer in the treated animals (P < 0.05). The specific RFRP-3 antibody response induced by the vaccine was detected at week 2 with a peak at week 6 after the initial immunization. Furthermore, we found that ewes inoculated with pVAX-tPA-HBsAg-S-2RFRP-asd vaccine significantly raised the concentration of GnRH, LH and E2 in serum compared to the control group. LH and E2 concentration in the treated ewes (Group T) was significantly higher than that in control ewes (Group C) at weeks 10, 12 and 14 after the initial immunization, respectively (P < 0.05). Therefore, RFRP-3 can be used as a target for DNA immunization to promote reproductive hormone secretion in ewes and RFRP-3 gene immunization might be a candidate tool to regulate mammal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ding
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xunping Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Haijing Jing
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Guiqiong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.
| | - Junjun Cheng
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
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Singh P, Anjum S, Srivastava RK, Tsutsui K, Krishna A. Central and peripheral neuropeptide RFRP-3: A bridge linking reproduction, nutrition, and stress response. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 65:100979. [PMID: 35122778 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.100979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This article is an amalgamation of the current status of RFRP-3 (GnIH) in reproduction and its association with the nutrition and stress-mediated changes in the reproductive activities. GnIH has been demonstrated in the hypothalamus of all the vertebrates studied so far and is a well-known inhibitor of GnRH mediated reproduction. The RFRP-3 neurons interact with the other hypothalamic neurons and the hormonal signals from peripheral organs for coordinating the nutritional, stress, and environmental associated changes to regulate reproduction. RFRP-3 has also been shown to regulate puberty, reproductive cyclicity and senescence depending upon the nutritional status. A favourable nutritional status and the environmental cues which are permissive for the successful breeding and pregnancy outcome keep RFRP-3 level low, whereas unfavourable nutritional status and stressful conditions increase the expression of RFRP-3 which impairs the reproduction. Still our knowledge about RFRP-3 is incomplete regarding its therapeutic application for nutritional or stress-related reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padmasana Singh
- Department of Zoology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, Anuppur 484886, MP, India
| | - Shabana Anjum
- Department of Chemical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raj Kamal Srivastava
- Department of Zoology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, Anuppur 484886, MP, India
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Kagamiyama 1-7-1, Higashi-Hiroshima University 739-8521, Japan
| | - Amitabh Krishna
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, UP, India.
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Sobrino V, Avendaño MS, Perdices-López C, Jimenez-Puyer M, Tena-Sempere M. Kisspeptins and the neuroendocrine control of reproduction: Recent progress and new frontiers in kisspeptin research. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 65:100977. [PMID: 34999056 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In late 2003, a major breakthrough in our understanding of the mechanisms that govern reproduction occurred with the identification of the reproductive roles of kisspeptins, encoded by the Kiss1 gene, and their receptor, Gpr54 (aka, Kiss1R). The discovery of this unsuspected reproductive facet attracted an extraordinary interest and boosted an intense research activity, in human and model species, that, in a relatively short period, established a series of basic concepts on the physiological roles of kisspeptins. Such fundamental knowledge, gathered in these early years of kisspeptin research, set the scene for the more recent in-depth dissection of the intimacies of the neuronal networks involving Kiss1 neurons, their precise mechanisms of regulation and the molecular underpinnings of the function of kisspeptins as pivotal regulators of all key aspects of reproductive function, from puberty onset to pulsatile gonadotropin secretion and the metabolic control of fertility. While no clear temporal boundaries between these two periods can be defined, in this review we will summarize the most prominent advances in kisspeptin research occurred in the last ten years, as a means to provide an up-dated view of the state of the art and potential paths of future progress in this dynamic, and ever growing domain of Neuroendocrinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sobrino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Maria Soledad Avendaño
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Cecilia Perdices-López
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Jimenez-Puyer
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland.
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Khan S, Batool B, Zubair H, Bano R, Ahmad S, Shahab M. Expression and co-localization of RFRP-3 and kisspeptin during breeding and non-breeding season in the hypothalamus of male rhesus monkey ( Macaca mulatta). Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12479. [PMID: 35847413 PMCID: PMC9270642 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Propose The mechanism that underpins how RFRP‐3 and kisspeptin interacts are not fully understood in higher primates. This study therefore set out to assess RFRP‐3 and kisspeptin expression and their morphological interactions in the breeding, and in the non‐breeding period in monkey hypothalamus. Methods Eight mature male macaques (Macaca mulatta) in the breeding season (February; n = 4) and non‐breeding season (June; n = 4) were used. To reveal the expression and co‐localization of RFRP‐3 and kisspeptin, double‐labeled immunohistochemistry was performed. Testicular volume, sperm count, and plasma testosterone level were also measured to validate the breeding and non‐breeding paradigms. Results Testicular volume, plasma testosterone level, and sperm count showed a significant reduction during non‐breeding season. The number of kisspeptin‐positive cells was significantly increased during the breeding season (p < 0.05), whereas more RFRP‐3‐positive cell bodies were seen in the non‐breeding season (p < 0.01). Close contacts of RFRP‐3 fibers with kisspeptin cells showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) across seasons. However, co‐localization of RFRP‐3‐ir cell bodies onto kisspeptin IR cell bodies showed a statistical increase (p < 0.01) in non‐breeding season. Conclusion In higher primates, RFRP‐3 decreases kisspeptin drives from the same cells to GnRH neurons in an autocrine manner causing suppression of the reproductive axis during the non‐breeding period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safdar Khan
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Bakhtwar Batool
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Hira Zubair
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Riffat Bano
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Shakil Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahab
- Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Biological Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad Pakistan.,Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal Dir Upper Pakistan
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Mohapatra SS, Mukherjee J, Banerjee D, Das PK, Ghosh PR, Das K. RFamide peptides, the novel regulators of mammalian HPG axis: A review. Vet World 2021; 14:1867-1873. [PMID: 34475710 PMCID: PMC8404114 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.1867-1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) are the group of neuropeptides synthesized predominantly from the hypothalamus that negatively affects the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal (hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal [HPG]) axis. These peptides are first identified in quail brains and emerged as the mammalian orthologs of avian gonadotropin inhibitory hormones. The RFRP-3 neurons in the hypothalamus are present in several mammalian species. The action of RFRP-3 is mediated through a G-protein-coupled receptor called OT7T022. The predominant role of RFRP-3 is the inhibition of HPG axis with several other effects such as the regulation of metabolic activity, stress regulation, controlling of non-sexual motivated behavior, and sexual photoperiodicity in concert with other neuropeptides such as kisspeptin, neuropeptide-Y (NPY), pro-opiomelanocortin, orexin, and melanin. RFamide peptides synthesized in the granulosa cells, interstitial cells, and seminiferous tubule regulate steroidogenesis and gametogenesis in the gonads. The present review is intended to provide the recent findings that explore the role of RFRP-3 in regulating HPG axis and its potential applications in the synchronization of reproduction and its therapeutic interventions to prevent stress-induced amenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smruti Smita Mohapatra
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Joydip Mukherjee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Dipak Banerjee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pradip Kumar Das
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Prabal Ranjan Ghosh
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Kinsuk Das
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Teo CH, Phon B, Parhar I. The Role of GnIH in Biological Rhythms and Social Behaviors. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:728862. [PMID: 34566893 PMCID: PMC8461181 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.728862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) was first discovered in the Japanese quail, and peptides with a C-terminal LPXRFamide sequence, the signature protein structure defining GnIH orthologs, are well conserved across vertebrate species, including fish, reptiles, amphibians, avians, and mammals. In the mammalian brain, three RFamide-related proteins (RFRP-1, RFRP-2, RFRP-3 = GnIH) have been identified as orthologs to the avian GnIH. GnIH is found primarily in the hypothalamus of all vertebrate species, while its receptors are distributed throughout the brain including the hypothalamus and the pituitary. The primary role of GnIH as an inhibitor of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and pituitary gonadotropin release is well conserved in mammalian and non-mammalian species. Circadian rhythmicity of GnIH, regulated by light and seasons, can influence reproductive activity, mating behavior, aggressive behavior, and feeding behavior. There is a potential link between circadian rhythms of GnIH, anxiety-like behavior, sleep, stress, and infertility. Therefore, in this review, we highlight the functions of GnIH in biological rhythms, social behaviors, and reproductive and non-reproductive activities across a variety of mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrate species.
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McIlwraith EK, Belsham DD. Hypothalamic reproductive neurons communicate through signal transduction to control reproduction. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110971. [PMID: 32750397 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the hypothalamus coordinate fertility and puberty. In order to achieve successful reproductive capacity, they receive signals from the periphery and from other hypothalamic neurons that coordinate energy homeostasis. Hormones, such as estradiol, insulin, leptin, and adiponectin, act directly or indirectly on GnRH and its associated reproductive neurons. Nutrients like glucose and fatty acids can also affect reproductive neurons to signal nutrient availability. Additionally, acute and chronic inflammation is reported to detrimentally affect GnRH and kisspeptin expression. All of these cues activate signal transduction pathways within neurons that lead to the changes in GnRH neuronal function. The signalling pathways can also be dysregulated by endocrine disrupting chemicals, which impair fertility by misappropriating common signalling pathways. The complex mechanisms controlling the levels of GnRH during the reproductive cycle rely on a carefully orchestrated set of signal transduction events to regulate the positive and negative feedback arms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. If these signalling events are dysregulated, this will result is a downregulatory event leading to hypogonadal hypogonadism with decreased or absent fertility. Therefore, an understanding of the mechanisms involved in distinct neuronal signalling could provide an advantage to inform therapeutic interventions for infertility and reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K McIlwraith
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Denise D Belsham
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Lee CY, Li S, Li XF, Stalker DAE, Cooke C, Shao B, Kelestimur H, Henry BA, Conductier G, O Byrne KT, Clarke IJ. Lipopolysaccharide reduces gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) gene expression: role of RFamide-related peptide-3 and kisspeptin. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1134-1143. [PMID: 30922440 DOI: 10.1071/rd18277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RFamide-related peptide (RFRP)-3 reduces luteinising hormone (LH) secretion in rodents. Stress has been shown to upregulate the expression of the RFRP gene (Rfrp) with a concomitant reduction in LH secretion, but an effect on expression of the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) gene (Gnrh1) has not been shown. We hypothesised that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced stress affects expression of Rfrp, the gene for kisspeptin (Kiss1) and/or Gnrh1, leading to suppression of LH levels in rats. Intracerebroventricular injections of RFRP-3 (0.1, 1, 5 nmol) or i.v. LPS (15μgkg-1) reduced LH levels. Doses of 1 and 5 nmol RFRP-3 were then administered to analyse gene expression by in situ hybridisation. RFRP-3 (5 nmol) had no effect on Gnrh1 or Kiss1 expression. LPS stress reduced GnRH and Kiss1 expression, without affecting Rfrp1 expression. These data indicate that LPS stress directly or indirectly reduces Gnrh1 expression, but this is unlikely to be due to a change in Rfrp1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chooi Yeng Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - ShengYun Li
- Division of Women's Health, Women's Health Academic Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Xiao Feng Li
- Division of Women's Health, Women's Health Academic Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Daniel A E Stalker
- Neuroscience Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Claire Cooke
- Division of Women's Health, Women's Health Academic Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Bei Shao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325003, China
| | - Haluk Kelestimur
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, 90424, Turkey
| | - Belinda A Henry
- Metabolism, Diabetes and Obesity Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Gregory Conductier
- Neuroscience Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Kevin T O Byrne
- Division of Women's Health, Women's Health Academic Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Iain J Clarke
- Neuroscience Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia; and Corresponding author.
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Sun W, Li S, Tian Z, Shi Y, Yu J, Sun Y, Wang Y. Dynamic Changes of RFRP3/GPR147 in the Precocious Puberty Model Female Rats. Curr Mol Med 2019; 19:766-775. [PMID: 31490751 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190906142445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pubertal development is a complex physiological process regulated by the neuroendocrine system and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Sexual precocity is a common childhood endocrine disease.The pathogenesis of sexual precocity has not been fully elucidated. RFRP3/GPRl47 signal pathway is able to inhibit the reproductive capability in avians and mammals, probably by acting on the GnRH neuron and pituitary to regulate gonadotrophin synthesis and release. However, little is known about the role of RFRP3 in puberty development and sexual precocity. OBJECTIVE To observe the dynamic changes of RFamide related peptide 3/G proteincoupled receptor 147 (RFRP3/GPR147) in hypothalamic during puberty development and explore their role in precocious puberty based on a female rat model. METHODS The Sprague-Dawley female rats were randomly divided into three groups, normal, vehicle, and precocious puberty model. At 5 days old, the rat model with precocious puberty was prepared by subcutaneously injecting a mixture of danazoldissolved ethanol and glycol. At different day-age (15, 25, 30, 35, and 40 days), the levels of estradiol(E2), follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the peripheral blood were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expressions of RFRP3, gonadotropin releasing hormone and GPR147 were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction(R-T PCR). RFRP3 positive cells were observed using Immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. RESULTS At 25 and 30 days, the levels of sex hormones and the uterus coefficients were significantly higher in the precocious puberty model group than those in the normal and vehicle groups. The ovarian morphological development in the precocious puberty model rats was significantly earlier than those in the normal and vehicle groups. The mRNA expressions of RFRP3/GPR147 and GnRH in the precocious puberty model group gradually increased and peaked at 25 days. The different day-age and the interaction have significant statistical significance on the expression of RFRP3 mRNA, while the levels of RFRP3 mRNA in the model group and vehicle groups have no significant statistical significance. There was statistical significance between the model group and vehicle groups in different day-age on the expression of GPR147 mRNA.The expression of hypothalamic RFRP3/GPR147 mRNA and RFRP3 positive cells gradually decreased with puberty onset. At 35 days, the levels of RFRP3 mRNA and GPR147 mRNA were significantly lower in the precocious puberty model group than those in the vehicle groups. Meanwhile, the levels of LH in the precocious puberty model rats reached its peak at this age. In the vehicle group, the levels of RFRP3 mRNA and serum LH were gradually increased and LH nearly peaked at 35 day-age. Subsequently, it gradually decreased and reached the lowest level at 35 day-age. The expression of RFRP3 mRNA and LH were positively correlated. CONCLUSION The findings suggested that RFRP3/GPR147 signaling pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of sexual precocity by regulating puberty development and sexual maturity in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Sun
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Suhuan Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Zhanzhuang Tian
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yumin Shi
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Yanyan Sun
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Yonghong Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
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Ubuka T, Tsutsui K. Reproductive neuroendocrinology of mammalian gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone. Reprod Med Biol 2019; 18:225-233. [PMID: 31312100 PMCID: PMC6613023 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) was discovered in the Japanese quail brain in 2000 as a hypothalamic neuropeptide that suppresses luteinizing hormone release from cultured quail anterior pituitary. METHODS The authors investigated the existence of mammalian orthologous peptides to GnIH and their physiological functions in the following 19 years of research. MAIN FINDINGS Mammals have orthologous peptide to GnIH, often described RFamide-related peptide, expressed in the hypothalamus and gonads. Mammalian GnIH may also suppress gonadotropin synthesis and release by suppressing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) synthesis and release in addition to directly suppressing gonadotropin synthesis and release from the pituitary. Mammalian GnIH may also suppress kisspeptin, a stimulator of GnRH, release. Mammalian GnIH is also expressed in the testis and ovary and suppresses gametogenesis and sex steroid production acting in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Thus, mammalian GnIH may act at all levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to suppress reproduction. GnIH may be involved in the regulation of puberty, estrous or menstrual cycle, seasonal reproduction, and stress responses. CONCLUSION Studies suggest that mammalian GnIH is an important neuroendocrine suppressor of reproduction in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Ubuka
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life ScienceWaseda UniversityShinjukuJapan
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life ScienceWaseda UniversityShinjukuJapan
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Hu KL, Chang HM, Li R, Yu Y, Qiao J. Regulation of LH secretion by RFRP-3 - From the hypothalamus to the pituitary. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 52:12-21. [PMID: 29608929 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) have long been identified as inhibitors of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis in mammals. However, less progress has been made in the detailed roles of RFRPs in the control of LH secretion. Recent studies have suggested that RFRP-3 neurons in the hypothalamus can regulate the secretion of LH at different levels, including kisspeptin neurons, GnRH neurons, and the pituitary. Additionally, conflicting results regarding the effects of RFRP-3 on these levels exist. In this review, we collect the latest evidence related to the effects of RFRP-3 neurons in regulating LH secretion by acting on kisspeptin neurons, GnRH neurons, and the pituitary and discuss the potential role of the timely reduction of RFRP-3 signaling in the modulation of the preovulatory LH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Lun Hu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Rong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
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Lainez NM, Coss D. Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Represses GnRH Gene Expression via cFOS during Inflammation in Male Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2019; 108:291-307. [PMID: 30630179 PMCID: PMC6561803 DOI: 10.1159/000496754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms whereby neuroinflammation negatively affects neuronal function in the hypothalamus are not clear. Our previous study determined that obesity-mediated chronic inflammation elicits sex-specific impairment in reproductive function via reduction in spine density in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Neuroinflammation and subsequent decrease in GnRH neuron spine density was specific for male mice, while protection in females was independent of ovarian estrogens. METHODS To examine if neuroinflammation-induced cytokines can directly regulate GnRH gene expression, herein we examined signaling pathways and mechanisms in males in vivo and in GnRH-expressing cell line, GT1-7. RESULTS GnRH neurons express cytokine receptors, and chronic or acute neuroinflammation represses GnRH gene expression in vivo. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in particular represses GnRH expression in GT1-7 cells, while other cytokines do not. STAT3 and MAPK pathways are activated following LIF treatment, but only MAPK pathway, specifically p38α, is sufficient to repress the GnRH gene. LIF induces cFOS that represses the GnRH gene via the -1,793 site in the enhancer region. In vivo, following high-fat diet, cFOS is induced in GnRH neurons and neurons juxtaposed to the leaky blood brain barrier of the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, but not in the neurons further away. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the increase in LIF due to neuroinflammation induces cFOS and represses the GnRH gene. Therefore, in addition to synaptic changes in GnRH neurons, neuroinflammatory cytokines directly regulate gene expression and reproductive function, and the specificity for neuronal targets may stem from the proximity to the fenestrated capillaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy M Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA,
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15
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Wang H, Khoradmehr A, Jalali M, Salehi MS, Tsutsui K, Jafarzadeh Shirazi MR, Tamadon A. The roles of RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs), mammalian gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) orthologues in female reproduction. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2018; 21:1210-1220. [PMID: 30627363 PMCID: PMC6312679 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2018.30520.7355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To benefit from reproduction and deal with challenges in the environmental conditions, animals must adapt internal physiology to maximize the reproduction rate. Maladaptive variations in the neurochemical systems and reproductive system can lead to manifestation of several significant mammalian reprocesses, including mammalian ovarian lifespan. RFamide-related peptide (RFRP, Rfrp), mammalian orthologues of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH), which is a regulator to prevent the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neural activity, is known to be related to reproductive traits. This review aimed to summarize recent five-year observations to outline historic insights and novel perspectives into the functions of RFRPs in coding the mammalian reproductive physiology, especially highlight recent advances in the impact on RFRPs in regulating mammalian ovary lifespan. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed the recent five-year important findings of RFRP system involved in mammalian ovary development. Data for this review were collected from Google Scholar and PubMed using the RFRP keyword combined with the keywords related to physiological or pathological reproductive functions. RESULTS Recent discoveries are focused on three major fronts in research on RFRP role in female reproduction including reproductive functions, energy balance, and stress regulation. The roles of RFRPs in various development phases of mammal reproduction including prepuberty, puberty, estrous cycle, pregnancy, milking, menopause, and/or ovarian diseases have been shown. CONCLUSION Overall, these recent advances demonstrate that RFRPs serve as critical mediators in mammalian ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences; Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproduction Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Jalali
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saied Salehi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Amin Tamadon
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
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Ubuka T, Tsutsui K. Comparative and Evolutionary Aspects of Gonadotropin-Inhibitory Hormone and FMRFamide-Like Peptide Systems. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:747. [PMID: 30405335 PMCID: PMC6200920 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that was found in the brain of Japanese quail when investigating the existence of RFamide peptides in birds. GnIH was named because it decreased gonadotropin release from cultured anterior pituitary, which was located in the hypothalamo-hypophysial system. GnIH and GnIH precursor gene related peptides have a characteristic C-terminal LPXRFamide (X = L or Q) motif that is conserved in jawed vertebrates. Orthologous peptides to GnIH are also named RFamide related peptide or LPXRFamide peptide from their structure. A G-protein coupled receptor GPR147 is the primary receptor for GnIH. Similarity-based clustering of neuropeptide precursors in metazoan species indicates that GnIH precursor of vertebrates is evolutionarily related to FMRFamide precursor of mollusk and nematode. FMRFamide peptide is the first RFamide peptide that was identified from the ganglia of the venus clam. In order to infer the evolutionary history of the GnIH-GnIH receptor system we investigate the structural similarities between GnIH and its receptor and well-studied nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) FMRFamide-like peptides (FLPs) and their receptors. We also compare the functions of FLPs of nematode with GnIH of chordates. A multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses of GnIH, neuropeptide FF (NPFF), a paralogous peptide of GnIH, and FLP precursors have shown that GnIH and NPFF precursors belong to different clades and some FLP precursors have structural similarities to either precursor. The peptide coding regions of FLP precursors in the same clade align well with those of GnIH or NPFF precursors. Alignment of GnIH (LPXRFa) peptides of chordates and FLPs of C. elegans grouped the peptides into five groups according to the last C-terminal amino acid sequences, which were MRFa, LRFa, VRFa, IRFa, and PQRFa. Phylogenetic analysis of receptors suggested that GPR147 has evolutionary relationships with FLP receptors, which regulate reproduction, aggression, locomotion, and feeding. GnIH and some FLPs mediate the effect of stress on reproduction and behavior, which may also be a conserved property of these peptide systems. Future studies are needed to investigate the mechanism of how neuropeptide precursor genes are mutated to evolve new neuropeptides and their inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Ubuka
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Shinjuku, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Shinjuku, Japan
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Lainez NM, Jonak CR, Nair MG, Ethell IM, Wilson EH, Carson MJ, Coss D. Diet-Induced Obesity Elicits Macrophage Infiltration and Reduction in Spine Density in the Hypothalami of Male but Not Female Mice. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1992. [PMID: 30254630 PMCID: PMC6141693 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing prevalence in obesity has become a significant public concern. C57BL/6J mice are prone to diet-induced obesity (DIO) when fed high-fat diet (HFD), and develop chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome, making them a good model to analyze mechanisms whereby obesity elicits pathologies. DIO mice demonstrated profound sex differences in response to HFD with respect to inflammation and hypothalamic function. First, we determined that males are prone to DIO, while females are resistant. Ovariectomized females, on the other hand, are susceptible to DIO, implying protection by ovarian hormones. Males, but not females, exhibit changes in hypothalamic neuropeptide expression. Surprisingly, ovariectomized females remain resistant to neuroendocrine changes, showing that ovarian hormones are not necessary for protection. Second, obese mice exhibit sex differences in DIO-induced inflammation. Microglial activation and peripheral macrophage infiltration is seen in the hypothalami of males, while females are protected from the increase in inflammatory cytokines and do not exhibit microglia morphology changes nor monocyte-derived macrophage infiltration, regardless of the presence of ovarian hormones. Strikingly, the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 is increased in the hypothalami of females but not males. Third, this study posits a potential mechanism of obesity-induced impairment of hypothalamic function whereby obese males exhibit reduced levels of synaptic proteins in the hypothalamus and fewer spines in GnRH neurons, located in the areas exhibiting macrophage infiltration. Our studies suggest that inflammation-induced synaptic remodeling is potentially responsible for hypothalamic impairment that may contribute to diminished levels of gonadotropin hormones, testosterone, and sperm numbers, which we observe and corresponds to the observations in obese humans. Taken together, our data implicate neuro-immune mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences in obesity-induced impairment of the hypothalamic function with potential consequences for reproduction and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy M Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Carrie R Jonak
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Meera G Nair
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Iryna M Ethell
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Emma H Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Monica J Carson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
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18
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Jonak CR, Lainez NM, Boehm U, Coss D. GnRH Receptor Expression and Reproductive Function Depend on JUN in GnRH Receptor‒Expressing Cells. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1496-1510. [PMID: 29409045 PMCID: PMC5839737 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus regulates synthesis and secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gonadotropes. LH and FSH are heterodimers composed of a common α-subunit and unique β-subunits, which provide biological specificity and are limiting components of mature hormone synthesis. Gonadotrope cells respond to GnRH via specific expression of the GnRH receptor (Gnrhr). GnRH induces the expression of gonadotropin genes and of the Gnrhr by activation of specific transcription factors. The JUN (c-Jun) transcription factor binds to AP-1 sites in the promoters of target genes and mediates induction of the FSHβ gene and of the Gnrhr in gonadotrope-derived cell lines. To analyze the role of JUN in reproductive function in vivo, we generated a mouse model that lacks JUN specifically in GnRH receptor‒expressing cells (conditional JUN knockout; JUN-cKO). JUN-cKO mice displayed profound reproductive anomalies such as reduced LH levels resulting in lower gonadal steroid levels, longer estrous cycles in females, and diminished sperm numbers in males. Unexpectedly, FSH levels were unchanged in these animals, whereas Gnrhr expression in the pituitary was reduced. Steroidogenic enzyme expression was reduced in the gonads of JUN-cKO mice, likely as a consequence of reduced LH levels. GnRH receptor‒driven Cre activity was detected in the hypothalamus but not in the GnRH neuron. Female, but not male, JUN-cKO mice exhibited reduced GnRH expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that GnRH receptor‒expression levels depend on JUN and are critical for reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie R. Jonak
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Nancy M. Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
- Correspondence: Djurdjica Coss, PhD, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, 303 SOM Research Building, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521. E-mail:
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Zhang K, Kong X, Feng G, Xiang W, Chen L, Yang F, Cao C, Ding Y, Chen H, Chu M, Wang P, Zhang B. Investigation of hypoxia networks in ovarian cancer via bioinformatics analysis. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:16. [PMID: 29482638 PMCID: PMC5828062 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0388-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of the death from gynecologic malignancies. Hypoxia is closely related to the malignant growth of cells. However, the molecular mechanism of hypoxia-regulated ovarian cancer cells remains unclear. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the key genes and pathways implicated in the regulation of hypoxia by bioinformatics analysis. Methods Using the datasets of GSE53012 downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by comparing the RNA expression from cycling hypoxia group, chronic hypoxia group, and control group. Subsequently, cluster analysis was performed followed by the construction of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the overlapping DEGs between the cycling hypoxia and chronic hypoxia using ClusterONE. In addition, gene ontology (GO) functional and pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs in the most remarkable module were performed using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) software. Ultimately, the signaling pathways associated with hypoxia were verified by RT-PCR, WB, and MTT assays. Results A total of 931 overlapping DEGs were identified. Nine hub genes and seven node genes were screened by analyzing the PPI and pathway integration networks, including ESR1, MMP2, ErbB2, MYC, VIM, CYBB, EDN1, SERPINE1, and PDK. Additionally, 11 key pathways closely associated with hypoxia were identified, including focal adhesion, ErbB signaling, and proteoglycans in cancer, among which the ErbB signaling pathway was verified by RT-PCR, WB, and MTT assays. Furthermore, functional enrichment analysis revealed that these genes were mainly involved in the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells, such as regulation of cell proliferation, cell adhesion, positive regulation of cell migration, focal adhesion, and extracellular matrix binding. Conclusion The results show that hypoxia can promote the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells by affecting the invasion and adhesion functions through the dysregulation of ErbB signaling, which may be governed by the HIF-1α-TGFA-EGFR-ErbB2-MYC axis. These findings will contribute to the identification of new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13048-018-0388-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangjun Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Guangde Feng
- Sichuan TQLS Animal Husbandry Science and Technology Co., Ltd, Mianyang, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Long Chen
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunyu Cao
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yifei Ding
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Farm Animal Genetic Resources and Germplasm Innovation of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pingqing Wang
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Baoyun Zhang
- Bioengineering Institute of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
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Faykoo-Martinez M, Monks DA, Zovkic IB, Holmes MM. Sex- and brain region-specific patterns of gene expression associated with socially-mediated puberty in a eusocial mammal. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193417. [PMID: 29474488 PMCID: PMC5825099 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The social environment can alter pubertal timing through neuroendocrine mechanisms that are not fully understood; it is thought that stress hormones (e.g., glucocorticoids or corticotropin-releasing hormone) influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to inhibit puberty. Here, we use the eusocial naked mole-rat, a unique species in which social interactions in a colony (i.e. dominance of a breeding female) suppress puberty in subordinate animals. Removing subordinate naked mole-rats from this social context initiates puberty, allowing for experimental control of pubertal timing. The present study quantified gene expression for reproduction- and stress-relevant genes acting upstream of gonadotropin-releasing hormone in brain regions with reproductive and social functions in pre-pubertal, post-pubertal, and opposite sex-paired animals (which are in various stages of pubertal transition). Results indicate sex differences in patterns of neural gene expression. Known functions of genes in brain suggest stress as a key contributing factor in regulating male pubertal delay. Network analysis implicates neurokinin B (Tac3) in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus as a key node in this pathway. Results also suggest an unappreciated role for the nucleus accumbens in regulating puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - D. Ashley Monks
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Iva B. Zovkic
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa M. Holmes
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Tsutsui K, Son YL, Kiyohara M, Miyata I. Discovery of GnIH and Its Role in Hypothyroidism-Induced Delayed Puberty. Endocrinology 2018; 159:62-68. [PMID: 28938445 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
It is known that hypothyroidism delays puberty in mammals. Interaction between the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) and hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes may be important processes in delayed puberty. Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a newly discovered hypothalamic neuropeptide that inhibits gonadotropin synthesis and release in quail. It now appears that GnIH is conserved across various mammals and primates, including humans, and inhibits reproduction. We have further demonstrated that GnIH is involved in pubertal delay induced by thyroid dysfunction in female mice. Hypothyroidism delays pubertal onset with the increase in hypothalamic GnIH expression and the decrease in circulating gonadotropin and estradiol levels. Thyroid status regulates GnIH expression by epigenetic modification of the GnIH promoter region. Furthermore, knockout of GnIH gene abolishes the effect of hypothyroidism on delayed pubertal onset. Accordingly, it is considered that GnIH is a mediator of pubertal disorder induced by thyroid dysfunction. This is a novel function of GnIH that interacts between the HPT-HPG axes in pubertal onset delay. This mini-review summarizes the structure, expression, and function of GnIH and highlights the action of GnIH in pubertal disorder induced by thyroid dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - You Lee Son
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mika Kiyohara
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ichiro Miyata
- Department of Pediatrics, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Han X, He Y, Zeng G, Wang Y, Sun W, Liu J, Sun Y, Yu J. Intracerebroventricular injection of RFRP-3 delays puberty onset and stimulates growth hormone secretion in female rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:35. [PMID: 28464910 PMCID: PMC5414188 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0254-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Puberty onset is a complex, organized biological process with multilevel regulation, and its physiopathological mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. RFRP-3, the mammalian ortholog to gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone, is implicated in inhibiting the synthesis and release of gonadotropin in mammals. However, it is unclear whether RFRP-3 participates in regulating pubertal development. METHODS This study investigated the functional significance and regulatory mechanism of hypothalamic RFRP-3 neuropeptide in the onset of puberty in young female rats. On postnatal day 22, we implanted cannulas into the lateral ventricles of female rat pups. From postnatal day 28 to postnatal day 36, the intracerebroventricular injection of RFRP-3, or vehicle, was conducted twice a day. To investigate whether puberty onset was affected, we examined the body weight, age of vaginal opening, serum hormone levels, uterus and ovary development, and hypothalamic Kiss-1 mRNA expression. RESULTS Intracerebroventricular injection of RFRP-3 significantly decreased the serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone and estradiol, delayed uterine maturation, and postponed the time of vaginal opening. This study suggests that RFRP-3 can delay the onset of puberty in young female rats; the expression of Kiss-1 mRNA is potently inhibited in the RFRP-3 group. Moreover, our data show that RFRP-3 elevates serum growth hormone levels. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that intracerebroventricular injection of RFRP-3 significantly delays the onset of puberty in female rats. Additionally, RFRP-3 may be associated with prepubertal rise in the secretion of growth hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghui Han
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan He
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Gulan Zeng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiamen Hospital of T.C.M, Xiamen, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Wang
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Sun
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Junchao Liu
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyan Sun
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yu
- 0000 0004 0407 2968grid.411333.7Department of Integrative Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, No.399, Wan Yuan Road, Min Hang District, Shanghai, China
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Kiyohara M, Son YL, Tsutsui K. Involvement of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone in pubertal disorders induced by thyroid status. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1042. [PMID: 28432332 PMCID: PMC5430760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01183-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid disorders cause abnormal puberty, indicating interactions between the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) and hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes, which are important in pubertal development. The hypothalamic gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) was shown to be decreased in the early prepubertal stage, suggesting the role of GnIH on pubertal onset. Here, we investigated whether thyroid dysfunction affects pubertal onset in female mice via GnIH regulation. Hypothyroidism showed delayed pubertal onset with increased GnIH expression and reduced pituitary-gonadal activity. Remarkably, knockout of GnIH prevented the effect of hypothyroidism to delay the pubertal onset, resulting in indistinguishable pubertal timing in GnIH-knockout female mice between control and hypothyroidism-induced group, indicating that increased GnIH expression induced by hypothyroidism may lead to delayed puberty. In contrast, hyperthyroidism led to a decrease in GnIH expression, however pubertal onset was normal, implying further reduction of the inhibitory GnIH had little effect on the phenotypical change. Critically, thyroid hormone suppressed GnIH expression in hypothalamic explants and GnIH neurons expressed thyroid hormone receptors to convey the thyroid status. Moreover, the thyroid status highly regulated the chromatin modifications of GnIH promoter, H3acetylation and H3K9tri-methylation. These findings indicate a novel function of GnIH to mediate HPT-HPG interactions that contribute to proper pubertal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mika Kiyohara
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, and Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - You Lee Son
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, and Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan.
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology, Waseda University, and Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan.
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RFamide-related peptide-3 (RFRP-3) suppresses sexual maturation in a eusocial mammal. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:1207-1212. [PMID: 28096421 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1616913114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying social inhibition of puberty are not well understood. Here, we use a model exhibiting the most profound case of pubertal suppression among mammals to explore a role for RFamide-related peptide-3 [RFRP-3; mammalian ortholog to gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH)] in neuroendocrine control of reproductive development. Naked mole rats (NMRs) live in sizable colonies where breeding is monopolized by two to four dominant animals, and no other members exhibit signs of puberty throughout their lives unless they are removed from the colony. Because of its inhibitory action on the reproductive axis in other vertebrates, we investigated the role of RFRP-3 in social reproductive suppression in NMRs. We report that RFRP-3 immunofluorescence expression patterns and RFRP-3/GnRH cross-talk are largely conserved in the NMR brain, with the exception of the unique presence of RFRP-3 cell bodies in the arcuate nucleus (Arc). Immunofluorescence comparisons revealed that central expression of RFRP-3 is altered by reproductive status, with RFRP-3 immunoreactivity enhanced in the paraventricular nucleus, dorsomedial nucleus, and Arc of reproductively quiescent NMRs. We further observed that exogenous RFRP-3 suppresses gonadal steroidogenesis and mating behavior in NMRs given the opportunity to undergo puberty. Together, our findings establish a role for RFRP-3 in preserving reproductive immaturity, and challenge the view that stimulatory peptides are the ultimate gatekeepers of puberty.
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Ubuka T, Parhar I. Dual Actions of Mammalian and Piscine Gonadotropin-Inhibitory Hormones, RFamide-Related Peptides and LPXRFamide Peptides, in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:377. [PMID: 29375482 PMCID: PMC5768612 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that decreases gonadotropin synthesis and release by directly acting on the gonadotrope or by decreasing the activity of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. GnIH is also called RFamide-related peptide in mammals or LPXRFamide peptide in fishes due to its characteristic C-terminal structure. The primary receptor for GnIH is GPR147 that inhibits cAMP production in target cells. Although most of the studies in mammals, birds, and fish have shown the inhibitory action of GnIH in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, several in vivo studies in mammals and many in vivo and in vitro studies in fish have shown its stimulatory action. In mouse, although the firing rate of the majority of GnRH neurons is decreased, a small population of GnRH neurons is stimulated by GnIH. In hamsters, GnIH inhibits luteinizing hormone (LH) release in the breeding season when their endogenous LH level is high but stimulates LH release in non-breeding season when their LH level is basal. Besides different effects of GnIH on the HPG axis depending on the reproductive stages in fish, higher concentration or longer duration of GnIH administration can stimulate their HPG axis. These results suggest that GnIH action in the HPG axis is modulated by sex-steroid concentration, the action of neuroestrogen synthesized by the activity of aromatase stimulated by GnIH, estrogen membrane receptor, heteromerization and internalization of GnIH, GnRH, and estrogen membrane receptors. The inhibitory and stimulatory action of GnIH in the HPG axis may have a physiological role to maintain reproductive homeostasis according to developmental and reproductive stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Ubuka
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Brain Research Institute Monash Sunway, Monash University Malaysia, Sunway, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Takayoshi Ubuka,
| | - Ishwar Parhar
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Brain Research Institute Monash Sunway, Monash University Malaysia, Sunway, Malaysia
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Ubuka T, Son YL, Tsutsui K. Molecular, cellular, morphological, physiological and behavioral aspects of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 227:27-50. [PMID: 26409890 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that was isolated from the brains of Japanese quail in 2000, which inhibited luteinizing hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland. Here, we summarize the following fifteen years of researches that investigated on the mechanism of GnIH actions at molecular, cellular, morphological, physiological, and behavioral levels. The unique molecular structure of GnIH peptide is in its LPXRFamide (X=L or Q) motif at its C-terminal. The primary receptor for GnIH is GPR147. The cell signaling pathway triggered by GnIH is initiated by inhibiting adenylate cyclase and decreasing cAMP production in the target cell. GnIH neurons regulate not only gonadotropin synthesis and release in the pituitary, but also regulate various neurons in the brain, such as GnRH1, GnRH2, dopamine, POMC, NPY, orexin, MCH, CRH, oxytocin, and kisspeptin neurons. GnIH and GPR147 are also expressed in gonads and they may regulate steroidogenesis and germ cell maturation in an autocrine/paracrine manner. GnIH regulates reproductive development and activity. In female mammals, GnIH may regulate estrous or menstrual cycle. GnIH is also involved in the regulation of seasonal reproduction, but GnIH may finely tune reproductive activities in the breeding seasons. It is involved in stress responses not only in the brain but also in gonads. GnIH may inhibit male socio-sexual behavior by stimulating the activity of cytochrome P450 aromatase in the brain and stimulates feeding behavior by modulating the activities of hypothalamic and central amygdala neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Ubuka
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; Brain Research Institute Monash Sunway (BRIMS) of the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Petaling Jaya 46150, Malaysia.
| | - You Lee Son
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan.
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Poling MC, Kauffman AS. Regulation and Function of RFRP-3 (GnIH) Neurons during Postnatal Development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:150. [PMID: 26441840 PMCID: PMC4585233 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
RFamide-related peptide-3 (RFRP-3) [mammalian ortholog to gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone (GnIH)] potently inhibits gonadotropin secretion in mammals. Studies of RFRP-3 immunoreactivity and Rfrp expression (the gene encoding RFRP-3) in mammalian brains have uncovered several possible pathways regulating RFRP-3 neurons, shedding light on their potential role in reproduction and other processes, and pharmacological studies have probed the target sites of RFRP-3 action. Despite this, there is currently no major consensus on RFRP-3's specific endogenous role(s) in reproductive physiology. Here, we discuss the latest evidence relating to RFRP-3 neuron regulation and function during development and sexual maturation, focusing on rodents. We highlight significant changes in RFRP-3 and Rfrp expression, as well as RFRP-3 neuronal activation, during key stages of postnatal and pubertal development and also discuss recent evidence testing the requisite role of RFRP-3 receptors for normal pubertal timing and developmental LH secretion. Interestingly, some findings suggest that endogenous RFRP-3 signaling may not be necessary for the puberty timing, at least in some species, forcing new hypotheses to be generated regarding this peptide's functional significance to sexual maturation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C. Poling
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander S. Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- *Correspondence: Alexander S. Kauffman, Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, Leichtag Building, Room 3A-15, 9500 Gilman Drive, #0674, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA,
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