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Barrero JA, Villamil-Camargo LM, Imaz JN, Arciniegas-Villa K, Rubio-Romero JA. Maternal Serum Activin A, Inhibin A and Follistatin-Related Proteins across Preeclampsia: Insights into Their Role in Pathogenesis and Prediction. JOURNAL OF MOTHER AND CHILD 2023; 27:119-133. [PMID: 37595293 PMCID: PMC10438925 DOI: 10.34763/jmotherandchild.20232701.d-23-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within the endocrine-paracrine signalling network at the maternal-foetal interface, the activin-inhibin-follistatin system modulates extravillous trophoblast invasion, suggesting a potential role in preeclampsia pathogenesis. This study aimed to compile the evidence published in the last decade regarding the variation in maternal serum activins, inhibin- and follistatin-related proteins in preeclamptic pregnancies compared to healthy pregnancies, and to discuss their role in predicting and understanding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A scoping review was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and LILACS databases to identify studies published within the last ten years (2012-2022). RESULTS Thirty studies were included. None of the studies addressed maternal serum changes of isoforms different from activin A, inhibin A, follistatin, and follistatin-like 3. Sixteen studies evaluated the potential of these isoforms in predicting preeclampsia through the area under the curve from a receiver operating characteristic curve. CONCLUSIONS In preeclampsia, inhibin A is upregulated in all trimesters, whereas activin A increases exclusively in the late second and third trimesters. Serum follistatin levels are reduced in women with preeclampsia during the late second and third trimesters. However, changes in follistatin-like 3 remain inconclusive. Inhibin A and activin A can potentially serve as biomarkers of early-onset preeclampsia based on the outcomes of the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Further investigations are encouraged to explore the feasibility of quantifying maternal serum levels of activin A and inhibin A as a clinical tool in early preeclampsia prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A. Barrero
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá Campus, Faculty of Medicine, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Jose N. Imaz
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá Campus, Faculty of Medicine, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Jorge A. Rubio-Romero
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá Campus, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bogotá, Colombia
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McMinn PH, Ahmed A, Huttenlocher A, Beebe DJ, Kerr SC. The lymphatic endothelium-derived follistatin: activin A axis regulates neutrophil motility in response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Integr Biol (Camb) 2023; 15:zyad003. [PMID: 36781971 PMCID: PMC10101905 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyad003] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays an active role during infection, however the role of lymphatic-neutrophil interactions in host-defense responses is not well understood. During infection with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia pestis, neutrophils traffic from sites of infection through the lymphatic vasculature, to draining lymph nodes to interact with resident lymphocytes. This process is poorly understood, in part, due to the lack of in vitro models of the lymphatic system. Here we use a 3D microscale lymphatic vessel model to examine neutrophil-lymphatic cell interactions during host defense responses to pathogens. In previous work, we have shown that follistatin is secreted at high concentrations by lymphatic endothelial cells during inflammation. Follistatin inhibits activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, and, together, these molecules form a signaling pathway that plays a role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Although follistatin and activin A are constitutively produced in the pituitary, gonads and skin, their major source in the serum and their effects on neutrophils are poorly understood. Here we report a microfluidic model that includes both blood and lymphatic endothelial vessels, and neutrophils to investigate neutrophil-lymphatic trafficking during infection with P. aeruginosa. We found that lymphatic endothelial cells produce secreted factors that increase neutrophil migration toward P. aeruginosa, and are a significant source of both follistatin and activin A during Pseudomonas infection. We determined that follistatin produced by lymphatic endothelial cells inhibits activin A, resulting in increased neutrophil migration. These data suggest that the follistatin:activin A ratio influences neutrophil trafficking during infection with higher ratios increasing neutrophil migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick H McMinn
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Ge L, Liu SF. Lentivirus-Mediated Short Hairpin RNA for Follistatin Downregulation Suppresses Tumor Progression in Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:832-840. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2615-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Panagiotou G, Ghaly W, Upadhyay J, Pazaitou-Panayiotou K, Mantzoros CS. Serum Follistatin Is Increased in Thyroid Cancer and Is Associated With Adverse Tumor Characteristics in Humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e2137-e2150. [PMID: 33493282 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Obesity and classical growth factors are associated with thyroid cancer (TC). However, less is known regarding novel hormones such as follistatins and activins. We hypothesized that serum follistatin but not activins would be increased in TC. OBJECTIVE This work aimed to assess circulating levels of follistatins, activins, and growth factors in patients with a history of TC vs patients with nonmalignant thyroid diseases. METHODS A hospital-based, unmatched case-control study was conducted with 170 thyroidectomized patients due to well-differentiated TC and 106 thyroidectomized patients without history of malignancy. Anthropometric, biochemical, and histological parameters were recorded. Serum samples were collected in the steady state 45 days after surgery. Multivariate models were used to adjust for baseline differences of the unmatched variables. Serum levels of follistatin (FST), follistatin like-3, activin A, activin B, bioactive insulin-like growth factor-1, and stanniocalcin-2 were assayed with novel, highly specific ELISA kits. RESULTS In unmatched univariate models, TC patients had higher FST serum levels compared to cancer-free individuals, independently of histological subtype. In multivariate models adjusting for covariates, individuals in the highest tertile of FST levels were associated with an increased risk for the presence of any type of TC or specific histological subtypes, including papillary, follicular and Hürthle-cell carcinoma, and medullary TC. Higher postoperative FST concentrations were found in patients with vascular invasion and distant metastases and associated with TNM staging at diagnosis. CONCLUSION FST serum levels are increased in TC patients and correlate with advanced tumor aggressiveness. Future longitudinal studies are needed to confirm and extend our observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigorios Panagiotou
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Wael Ghaly
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Jagriti Upadhyay
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | | | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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Plunk EC, Richards SM. Endocrine-Disrupting Air Pollutants and Their Effects on the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239191. [PMID: 33276521 PMCID: PMC7731392 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can contaminate air, soil, and water. Human exposures to EDCs occur through inhalation, absorption, and ingestion. EDCs act by disrupting various pathways in the endocrine system. When the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is disrupted by EDCs, there can be effects on fertility in both men and women. Not only can fertility be indirectly affected by EDC disruptions of the HPG axis, but EDCs can also directly affect the menstrual cycle and sperm morphology. In this review, we will discuss the current findings on EDCs that can be inhaled. This review examines effects of exposure to prominent EDCs: brominated and organophosphate flame retardants, diesel exhaust, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cadmium and lead, TCDD, and polychlorinated biphenyls on fertility through alterations that disrupt the HPG axis and fertility through inhalation. Although the studies included herein include multiple exposure routes, all the studies indicate receptor interactions that can occur from inhalation and the associated effects of all compounds on the HPG axis and subsequent fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Plunk
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Sean M. Richards
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA
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Follistatin Expression in Human Invasive Breast Tumors: Pathologic and Clinical Associations. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2018; 26:108-112. [PMID: 27389553 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Follistatin is a potent native activin antagonist that is expressed in the normal mammary gland and in different breast proliferative diseases. Despite experimental evidence that follistatin can modulate the breast cancer cell cycle, the clinical significance of follistatin expression in these tumors is unknown. The aim of this study was to correlate the intensity of follistatin expression in invasive breast cancer with some of its clinical and pathologic features, such as the disease stage and the hormonal receptor status. Paraffin blocks of tumor samples that had been fixed in buffered formalin were obtained from 154 women subjected to surgery for breast cancer between 2008 and 2012. Sections from all paraffin blocks were cut and processed together by immunohistochemistry using a commercial monoclonal antibody to human follistatin. The intensity of follistatin staining was unrelated to the menopausal status, the disease stage, the grade, progesterone receptor expression, and local or systemic recurrence. However, follistatin immunoreactivity was significantly stronger in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative tumors than in ER-positive tumors. These findings suggest that follistatin expression in invasive breast cancer is unrelated to the disease severity and the risk of recurrence, but is more intense in ER-negative tumors.
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Shi L, Resaul J, Owen S, Ye L, Jiang WG. Clinical and Therapeutic Implications of Follistatin in Solid Tumours. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2017; 13:425-435. [PMID: 27807065 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST), as a single-chain glycosylated protein, has two major isoforms, FST288 and FST315. The FST315 isoform is the predominant form whilst the FST288 variant accounts for less than 5% of the encoded mRNA. FST is differentially expressed in human tissues and aberrant expression has been observed in a variety of solid tumours, including gonadal, gastric and lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Based on the current evidence, FST is an antagonist of transforming growth factor beta family members, such as activin and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). FST plays a role in tumourigenesis, metastasis and angiogenesis of solid tumours through its interaction with activin and BMPs, thus resulting in pathophysiological function. In terms of diagnosis, prognosis and therapy, FST has shown strong promise. Through a better understanding of its biological functions, potential clinical applications may yet emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Shi
- Urology Department, Yantai Yu Huang Ding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong Province, P.R. China.,Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Jeyna Resaul
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Sioned Owen
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Lin Ye
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Wen G Jiang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K.
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Wang CY, Hsieh MJ, Hsieh IC, Shie SS, Ho MY, Yeh JK, Tsai ML, Yang CH, Hung KC, Wang CC, Wen MS. CLOCK modulates survival and acute lung injury in mice with polymicrobial sepsis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 478:935-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.08.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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El-Abd N, Fawzy A, Elbaz T, Hamdy S. Evaluation of annexin A2 and as potential biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:211-6. [PMID: 26189841 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3524-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the fifth most common malignancy worldwide. Early detection of HCC is difficult due to the lack of reliable markers. We aimed to assess the diagnostic role of annexin A2 (ANXA2) and follistatin as serum markers for HCC patients. This study included 50 patients with confirmed diagnosis of HCC, 30 patients with chronic liver disease, and 20 normal persons. Subjects performed thorough assessment and laboratory investigations. Serum levels of alpha fetoprotein (AFP), annexin A2, and follistatin were measured using ELISA technique. Annexin A2 significantly increased in the sera of HCC patients (median, 69.6 ng/ml) compared to chronic liver disease patients (median, 16.8 ng/ml) and control group (median, 9.5 ng/ml) (p < 0.001). Follistatin was higher in sera of HCC patients (median, 24.4 ng/ml) compared to the control group (median, 4.2 ng/ml) (p = 0.002) while no such significant difference was achieved between HCC and chronic liver disease patients. At a cutoff level 29.3 ng/ml, area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for ANXA2 was 0.910 (95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.84-0.97). For follistatin, it was 0.631 (95 % confidence interval 0.52-0.74) at cutoff level 15.7 ng/ml. Combining both annexin A2 and AFP increased the diagnostic efficiency (98 % specificity, LR + 41 and 97.6 % PPV). Follistatin combined with AFP provided 92 % specificity while lower sensitivity (50 %) was observed. Serum ANXA2 is a promising biomarker for HCC, certainly when measured with AFP. Follistatin could not differentiate between HCC and chronic liver disease, but its combination with AFP improved the specificity for HCC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevine El-Abd
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amal Fawzy
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tamer Elbaz
- Department of Endemic Hepatogastroenterology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Sherif Hamdy
- Department of Endemic Hepatogastroenterology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Gökmen-Polar Y, Goswami CP, Toroni RA, Sanders KL, Mehta R, Sirimalle U, Tanasa B, Shen C, Li L, Ivan M, Badve S, Sledge GW. Gene Expression Analysis Reveals Distinct Pathways of Resistance to Bevacizumab in Xenograft Models of Human ER-Positive Breast Cancer. J Cancer 2014; 5:633-45. [PMID: 25157274 PMCID: PMC4142325 DOI: 10.7150/jca.8466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bevacizumab, the recombinant antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), improves progression-free but not overall survival in metastatic breast cancer. To seek further insights in resistance mechanisms to bevacizumab at the molecular level, we developed VEGF and non-VEGF-driven ER-positive MCF7-derived xenograft models allowing comparison of tumor response at different timepoints. VEGF gene (MV165) overexpressing xenografts were initially sensitive to bevacizumab, but eventually acquired resistance. In contrast, parental MCF7 cells derived tumors were de novo insensitive to bevacizumab. Microarray analysis with qRT-PCR validation revealed that Follistatin (FST) and NOTCH were the top signaling pathways associated with resistance in VEGF-driven tumors (P<0.05). Based on the presence of VEGF, treatment with bevacizumab resulted in altered patterns of metagenes and PAM50 gene expression. In VEGF-driven model after short and long-term bevacizumab treatments, a change in the intrinsic subtype (luminal to myoepithelial/basal-like) was observed in association with increased expression of genes implicated with cancer stem cell phenotype (P<0.05). Our results show that the presence or absence of VEGF expression affects the response to bevacizumab therapy and gene pathways. In particular, long-term bevacizumab treatment shifts the cancer cells to a more aggressive myoepithelial/basal subtype in VEGF-expressing model, but not in non-VEGF model. These findings could shed light on variable results to anti-VEGF therapy in patients and emphasize the importance of patient stratification based on the VEGF expression. Our data strongly suggest consideration of patient subgroups for treatment and designing novel combinatory therapies in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesim Gökmen-Polar
- 1. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Chirayu P Goswami
- 2. Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Rachel A Toroni
- 3. Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Kerry L Sanders
- 3. Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Rutika Mehta
- 1. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Usha Sirimalle
- 1. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Bogdan Tanasa
- 4. Scripps Research Institute, University of Medicine and Pharmac, La Jolla, CA
| | - Changyu Shen
- 2. Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Lang Li
- 2. Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Mircea Ivan
- 3. Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Sunil Badve
- 1. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; ; 3. Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - George W Sledge
- 1. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; ; 3. Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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Walton KL, Chan KL, Pruysers E, Kelly EK, Harris G, Harrison CA, Robertson DM. Use of detergent-based buffers allows detection of precursor inhibin forms in an immunoassay format. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 381:106-14. [PMID: 23911899 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin ELISAs are used in monitoring aspects of reproductive function, however these assays are based on the measurements of the mature 30kDa inhibin forms and not precursor forms. In conventional ELISA formats, the 105kDa unprocessed 'Pro-inhibin' forms are immunologically inactive, but the immunoactivity can be recovered in the presence of detergents. The immunoactivity of Pro-inhibin forms was assessed in the presence of a range of detergents utilising antibodies to the α-, βA- and βB-subunits of inhibin. In contrast to mature forms, unprocessed inhibin forms showed a 10-40 fold increase in inhibin A and total inhibin immunoactivities under optimised detergent (0.5% SDS/2% Triton X-100) conditions. The suppressed immunoactivity of the Pro-inhibin forms in these immunoassays was attributed to steric hindrance by the respective βA- and α-subunit prodomains. This study details a detergent-based immunoassay that allows detection of previously undetectable precursor inhibin forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Walton
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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12
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Robertson DM. Inhibins and activins in blood: predictors of female reproductive health? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 359:78-84. [PMID: 21664246 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Revised: 05/03/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Inhibins A and B are gonadal factors which are important in fertility. Their use as predictors of female reproductive health has centred on their application to ovarian cancer, Anorexia Nervosa, Down Syndrome and preeclampsia. Inhibin B also provides an index of the endocrine feedback relationship between the ovary and pituitary particularly when the ovarian follicle reserve is low. These applications are relevant in monitoring the onset of the menopause transition, ovarian recovery following chemotherapy and disturbances in pubertal development. Currently, these applications have only found widespread use in Down Syndrome and ovarian cancer. Activins, on the other hand, appear to have a limited application.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Robertson
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, PO Box 5152, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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13
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Karve TM, Preet A, Sneed R, Salamanca C, Li X, Xu J, Kumar D, Rosen EM, Saha T. BRCA1 regulates follistatin function in ovarian cancer and human ovarian surface epithelial cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37697. [PMID: 22685544 PMCID: PMC3365892 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST), a folliculogenesis regulating protein, is found in relatively high concentrations in female ovarian tissues. FST acts as an antagonist to Activin, which is often elevated in human ovarian carcinoma, and thus may serve as a potential target for therapeutic intervention against ovarian cancer. The breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) is a known tumor suppressor gene in human breast cancer; however its role in ovarian cancer is not well understood. We performed microarray analysis on human ovarian carcinoma cell line SKOV3 that stably overexpress wild-type BRCA1 and compared with the corresponding empty vector-transfected clones. We found that stable expression of BRCA1 not only stimulates FST secretion but also simultaneously inhibits Activin expression. To determine the physiological importance of this phenomenon, we further investigated the effect of cellular BRCA1 on the FST secretion in immortalized ovarian surface epithelial (IOSE) cells derived from either normal human ovaries or ovaries of an ovarian cancer patient carrying a mutation in BRCA1 gene. Knock-down of BRCA1 in normal IOSE cells demonstrates down-regulation of FST secretion along with the simultaneous up-regulation of Activin expression. Furthermore, knock-down of FST in IOSE cell lines as well as SKOV3 cell line showed significantly reduced cell proliferation and decreased cell migration when compared with the respective controls. Thus, these findings suggest a novel function for BRCA1 as a regulator of FST expression and function in human ovarian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejaswita M. Karve
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Anju Preet
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Rosie Sneed
- University of District of Columbia, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Clara Salamanca
- Canadian Ovarian Tissue Bank, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Biomathematics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Jingwen Xu
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Deepak Kumar
- University of District of Columbia, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Eliot M. Rosen
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Tapas Saha
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- * E-mail: (TS)
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Rosenberg VA, Buhimschi IA, Dulay AT, Abdel-Razeq SS, Oliver EA, Duzyj CM, Lipkind H, Pettker CM, Buhimschi CS. Modulation of amniotic fluid activin-a and inhibin-a in women with preterm premature rupture of the membranes and infection-induced preterm birth. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 67:122-31. [PMID: 21992678 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01074.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Activins and inhibins are important modulators of inflammatory processes. We explored activation of amniotic fluid (AF) activin-A and inhibin-A system in women with intra-amniotic infection and preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM). METHOD OF STUDY We analyzed 78 AF samples: '2nd trimester-control' (n=12), '3rd trimester-control' (n=14), preterm labor with intact membranes [positive-AF-cultures (n=13), negative-AF-cultures (n=13)], and PPROM [positive-AF-cultures (n=13), negative-AF-cultures (n=13)]. Activin-A levels were evaluated ex-vivo following incubation of amniochorion and placental villous explants with Gram-negative lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or Gram-positive (Pam3Cys) bacterial mimics. Ability of recombinant activin-A and inhibin-A to modulate inflammatory reactions in fetal membranes was explored through explants' IL-8 release. RESULTS Activin-A and inhibin-A were present in human AF and were gestational age-regulated. Activin-A was significantly upregulated by infection. Lower inhibin-A levels were seen in PPROM. LPS elicited release of activin-A from amniochorion, but not from villous explants. Recombinant activin-A stimulated IL-8 release from amniochorion, an effect that was not reversed by inhibin-A. CONCLUSION Human AF activin-A and inhibin-A are involved in biological processes linked to intra-amniotic infection/inflammation-induced preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor A Rosenberg
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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15
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Inhibin-βA subunit immunolabeling as a prognostic factor in endometrioid adenocarcinomas: a matter of evaluation? Arch Gynecol Obstet 2010; 284:467-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-010-1680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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16
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Benbrook DM, Lightfoot S, Ranger-Moore J, Liu T, Chengedza S, Berry WL, Dozmorov I. Gene expression analysis of biological systems driving an organotypic model of endometrial carcinogenesis and chemoprevention. GENE REGULATION AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2010; 2:21-42. [PMID: 19784388 PMCID: PMC2733085 DOI: 10.4137/grsb.s344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
An organotypic model of endometrial carcinogenesis and chemoprevention was developed in which normal endometrial organotypic cultures exposed to the carcinogen, DMBA (7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene), developed a cancerous phenotype in the absence, but not presence of subsequent treatment with a flexible heteroarotinoid (Flex-Het), called SHetA2. A discriminant function based on karyometric features of cellular nuclei and an agar clonogenic assay confirmed these histologic changes. Interpretation of microarray data using an internal standard approach identified major pathways associated with carcinogenesis and chemoprevention governed by c-myc, p53, TNFα and Jun genes. Cluster analysis of functional associations of hypervariable genes demonstrated that carcinogenesis is accompanied by a stimulating association between a module of genes that includes tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), c-myc, and epidermal growth factor-receptor (EGF-R) and a module that includes insulin-like growth factor I-receptor (IGF-IR), p53, and Jun genes. Two secreted proteins involved in these systems, tenascin C and inhibin A, were validated at the protein level. Tenascin C is an EGF-R ligand, and therefore may contribute to the increased EGF-R involvement in carcinogenesis. The known roles of the identified molecular systems in DMBA and endometrial carcinogenesis and chemoprevention supports the validity of this model and the potential clinical utility of SHetA2 in chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris M Benbrook
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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17
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Huang HM, Li YC, Chung MH. Activin A induction of erythroid differentiation through MKK6-p38alpha/p38beta pathway is inhibited by follistatin. J Cell Physiol 2010; 223:687-94. [PMID: 20162623 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta superfamily that regulates cell proliferation and differentiation. Using the p38 inhibitor SB203580, our previous studies demonstrated that p38 was involved in activin A-mediated hemoglobin (Hb) synthesis in K562 cells. SB203580 is an inhibitor of p38alpha and p38beta isoforms. In this study, we show that p38alpha and p38beta mRNA were expressed in K562 cells and that activin A activated the kinase activities of these isoforms. To investigate the roles of p38alpha and p38beta isoforms in activin A-mediated erythroid differentiation, we generated stable clones that over-expressed the dominant negative p38 isoforms p38alpha(AF) and p38beta(AF) in K562 cells. The expressions of either p38alpha(AF) or p38beta(AF) reduced activin A-induced p38 activation, Hb synthesis, and zeta-globin promoter activity. Similarly, down-regulation of either p38alpha or p38beta by isoform-specific siRNAs also reduced activin A-induced zeta-globin promoter activity. Co-expressions of p38alpha(AF) and p38beta(AF), together, greatly inhibited the transcription activity of the zeta-globin promoter. Conversely, expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MKK) 6b(E), a constitutive activator of p38, significantly activated zeta-globin promoter. Co-expressions of either p38alpha or p38beta with MKK6b had a similar activation of zeta-globin promoter. Activin A induction of erythroid differentiation was inhibited by follistatin. Activin A-induced phosphorylation of MKK6 and p38 was also inhibited by follistatin. Moreover, over-expression of MKK6b(E) reverted follistatin inhibition of activin A-induced zeta-globin promoter activity. These results demonstrate that activin A induces erythroid differentiation of K562 cells through activation of MKK6-p38alpha/p38beta pathway and follistatin inhibits those effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei-Mei Huang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Inhibin/activin-betaC and -betaE subunits in the Ishikawa human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2009; 282:185-91. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-009-1310-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Nicks KM, Perrien DS, Akel NS, Suva LJ, Gaddy D. Regulation of osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis by the other reproductive hormones, Activin and Inhibin. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 310:11-20. [PMID: 19615428 PMCID: PMC2951729 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2009] [Revised: 07/03/2009] [Accepted: 07/07/2009] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
There is both cellular and physiological evidence demonstrating that both Activins and Inhibins regulate osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis, and regulate bone mass in vivo. Although Activins and Inhibins were initially isolated from the gonad, Activins are also produced and stored in bone, whereas Inhibins exert their regulation on bone cell differentiation and metabolism via endocrine effects. The accumulating data provide evidence that reproductive hormones, distinct from classical sex steroids, are important regulators of bone mass and bone strength. Given the well described dominant antagonism of Inhibin over Activin, as well as over BMPs and TGFbeta, the gonadally derived Inhibins are important regulators of locally produced osteotrophic factors. Thus, the cycling Inhibins in females and diurnal changes in Inhibin B in males elicit temporal shifts in Inhibin levels (tone) that de-repress the pituitary. This fundamental action has the potential to de-repress locally stimulated changes in osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis, thereby altering bone metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy M. Nicks
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Daniel S. Perrien
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Center for Bone Biology and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nisreen S. Akel
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Larry J Suva
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Research, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Dana Gaddy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Research, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Corresponding Author: Departments of Physiology and Biophysics and Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 505, Little Rock, AR 72205, 501-686-5918, 501-686-8167 FAX,
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Balasch J, Fábregues F, Carmona F, Casamitjana R, Tena-Sempere M. Ovarian luteinizing hormone priming preceding follicle-stimulating hormone stimulation: clinical and endocrine effects in women with long-term hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:2367-73. [PMID: 19366842 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-0262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), who may be totally LH deficient, remain the primary clinical model for investigating the physiology of gonadotropin actions on ovarian steroidogenesis and follicular development. OBJECTIVES Our objective was to investigate the effects of LH pretreatment on subsequent ovarian stimulation with FSH in longstanding HH women. DESIGN AND SETTING A prospective, self-controlled study was conducted at a university tertiary-care center. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS Eight HH women (six idiopathic, two surgical) underwent ovarian stimulation with recombinant human (rh)FSH preceded or not by rhLH administration in two separate cycles. In one additional patient with idiopathic HH, pretreatment was conducted with recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (rhCG) instead of rhLH. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Follicular development and serum hormone concentrations throughout LH-FSH and FSH treatment cycles were assessed. RESULTS Pretreatment with rhLH significantly decreased the mean threshold (daily effective) FSH dose and tended to lower the total amount of FSH required to induce follicular maturation in association with appropriate serum estradiol levels and endometrial thickness. Unexpectedly, in HH women retaining functional pituitary tissue, pretreatment with rhLH evoked a consistent elevation of serum LH levels during FSH administration, an effect that was also induced, even at higher magnitude, by pretreatment with rhCG. CONCLUSIONS In addition to changes in FSH requirements for follicular maturation, pretreatment with rhLH/rhCG evoked unambiguous elevations in serum levels of endogenous LH during FSH treatment in HH patients with preserved pituitary function. This is suggestive of a novel regulatory loop of LH secretion involving gonadotropin-stimulated ovarian factors whose nature and physiological relevance are yet to be disclosed, ovarian-derived kisspeptins being appealing candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Balasch
- Institute Clinic of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
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21
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Mylonas I, Makovitzky J, Shabani N, Gingelmaier A, Dian D, Kuhn C, Schulze S, Kunze S, Jeschke U, Friese K. Development and characterisation of an antibody for the immunohistochemical detection of inhibin/activin betaE (betaE) in normal human ovarian and placental tissue. Acta Histochem 2009; 111:366-71. [PMID: 19195688 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2008.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin/activin subunits are homologues to each other and belong to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) family of proteins. These proteins have been demonstrated to be disulphide-linked dimers, which have a common alpha-subunit but just one of two beta-subunits, differentiated in inhibin A (alpha-betaA) and in inhibin B (alpha-betaB). Recently, an additional beta-subunit has been identified, determined as betaE and being primarily synthesized in liver tissue. However, since no antibody against the betaE subunit is commercially available, limited data on histological immunodistribution of this inhibin subunit in gynaecological organs exist. Therefore, the aims of the present study were the synthesis and evaluation of a specific antibody against the inhibin-betaE subunit. In this study, we describe the characterisation of a polyclonal antibody against the inhibin-betaE subunit. This antibody demonstrated a specific reaction in both western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Moreover, we demonstrated positive immunolabelling in normal human ovary and placenta. The role of this novel subunit is intriguing, especially within the view that the other inhibin/activin subunits might have substantial functions in human reproduction and carcinogenesis. However, the function of this subunit in humans remains still unclear and warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mylonas
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337 Munich, Germany.
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22
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Nap AW, Groothuis PG, Punyadeera C, Klein-Hitpass L, Kamps R, Delvoux B, Dunselman GA. Oral contraceptives prevent the development of endometriosis in the chicken chorioallantoic membrane model. Contraception 2008; 78:257-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2008.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2008] [Revised: 04/30/2008] [Accepted: 05/06/2008] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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23
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Zheng W, Jimenez-Linan M, Rubin BS, Halvorson LM. Anterior pituitary gene expression with reproductive aging in the female rat. Biol Reprod 2007; 76:1091-102. [PMID: 17344471 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.057877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Although reproductive aging in women is classically attributed to loss of ovarian follicles, recent data have suggested that the entire hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis undergoes functional changes with time. The aim of this study was to characterize age-related changes in pituitary gene expression for factors with known importance for gonadotroph function, including 1) steroid hormone receptors (Esr and Pgr), 2) orphan nuclear receptors [Nr5a1 (steroidogenic factor-1) and Nr5a2 (liver receptor homologue-1)], and 3) pituitary-derived polypeptides (activin, inhibin, and follistatin), as well as 4) gonadotropin subunits and 5) GnRH receptors. We chose to utilize a middle-aged rat model for these studies. Young (Y; 3-mo-old) and middle-aged (MA; 9- to 12-mo-old) rats were ovariectomized, primed with estradiol, and injected with progesterone to induce an LH surge. The mRNA levels for the gonadotropin subunits and GnRH receptors were decreased in middle-aged females relative to young animals. Nr5a1 and follistatin mRNA levels were significantly greater in Y versus MA animals following ovariectomy. Furthermore, steroid-induced regulation of these genes was lost in the MA animals. Regulation of the Nr5a2, Inhba, and Inhbb transcripts was also limited to the young animals. In contrast, there were no significant differences in the mRNA levels of Esr or Pgr family members between age groups at any time point. Although this in vivo model normalizes ovarian steroid levels, it does not control for potential differences in GnRH stimulation with aging. Therefore, in a second set of experiments, we used an in vitro perifusion system to compare the effects of pulsatile GnRH in the two age groups. Nr5a1 mRNA expression was greater in Y than MA animals and was significantly decreased by GnRH pulses in both age groups. Follistatin mRNA levels increased significantly with GnRH treatment in Y animals but were not significantly changed in the MA females. Taken together, these data demonstrate gene-specific blunting of pituitary gene expression postovariectomy and during the steroid-induced surge in middle-aged rats. We propose that age-related changes in pituitary physiology may contribute to reproductive senescence.
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MESH Headings
- Aging/genetics
- Animals
- Female
- Follistatin/genetics
- Follistatin/metabolism
- Gene Expression/drug effects
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/genetics
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/metabolism
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/pharmacology
- Gonadotropins, Pituitary/genetics
- Gonadotropins, Pituitary/metabolism
- Inhibins/genetics
- Inhibins/metabolism
- Luteinizing Hormone/blood
- Ovariectomy
- Pituitary Gland, Anterior/metabolism
- Protein Subunits/genetics
- Protein Subunits/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/genetics
- Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Reproduction/genetics
- Steroidogenic Factor 1
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Zheng
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9032, USA
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24
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Krneta J, Kroll J, Alves F, Prahst C, Sananbenesi F, Dullin C, Kimmina S, Phillips DJ, Augustin HG. Dissociation of Angiogenesis and Tumorigenesis in Follistatin- and Activin-Expressing Tumors. Cancer Res 2006; 66:5686-95. [PMID: 16740706 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-3821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta superfamily member activin and its antagonist, follistatin, act as a pleiotropic growth factor system that controls cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Activin inhibits fibroblast growth factor 2-induced sprouting angiogenesis in vitro (spheroidal angiogenesis assay) and in vivo (Matrigel assay). To further study the role of the activin/follistatin system during angiogenesis and tumor progression, activin- and follistatin-expressing R30C mammary carcinoma cells were studied in mouse tumor experiments. Surprisingly, activin-expressing tumors grew much faster than follistatin-expressing tumors although they failed to induce increased angiogenesis (as evidenced by low microvessel density counts). Conversely, follistatin-expressing tumors were much smaller but had a dense network of small-diameter capillaries. Qualitative angioarchitectural analyses (mural cell recruitment, perfusion) revealed no major functional differences of the tumor neovasculature. Analysis of activin- and follistatin-expressing R30C cells identified a cell autonomous role of this system in controlling tumor cell growth. Whereas proliferation of R30C cells was not altered, follistatin-expressing R30C cells had an enhanced susceptibility to undergo apoptosis. These findings in experimental tumors are complemented by an intriguing case report of a human renal cell carcinoma that similarly shows a dissociation of angiogenesis and tumorigenesis during tumor progression. Collectively, the data shed further light into the dichotomous stimulating and inhibiting roles that the activin/follistatin system can exert during angiogenesis and tumor progression. Furthermore, the experiments provide a critical proof-of-principle example for the dissociation of angiogenesis and tumorigenesis, supporting the concept that tumor growth may not be dependent on increased angiogenesis as long as a minimal intratumoral microvessel density is maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Krneta
- Department of Vascular Biology and Angiogenesis Research, Tumor Biology Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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25
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Thaler CJ, Budiman H, Ruebsamen H, Nagel D, Lohse P. Effects of the common 677C>T mutation of the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene on ovarian responsiveness to recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 55:251-8. [PMID: 16533336 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2005.00357.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM The common 677C>T mutation of the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene is less prevalent in mothers of spontaneously conceived dichorionic twins than in those with singleton pregnancies. (Hasbargen U, Lohse P, Thaler CJ: Hum Reprod 2000; 15:2659-2662). As polyovulation is a pre-requisite for dichorionic pregnancies, we investigated whether the T allele is associated with reduced ovarian responsiveness to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). MATERIALS AND METHODS We studied 105 infertility patients undergoing a total of 269 A.R.T cycles stimulated with recombinant (r)-FSH. The MTHFR 677C>T genotype was analyzed by digestion of polymerase chain reaction-amplified DNA fragments. RESULTS Homozygous 677C patients older than 35, required significantly (P <0.02) less r-FSH and produced significantly more oocytes (P < 0.04) and higher maximal serum estradiol concentrations (P < 0.002) than heterozygous or homozygous carriers of the 677T allele. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that, in patients of advanced reproductive age, the MTHFR 677C>T mutation affects ovarian responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian J Thaler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology-Grosshadern, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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26
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Mylonas I, Schiessl B, Jeschke U, Vogl J, Makrigiannakis A, Kuhn C, Kunze S, Schulze S, Kainer F, Friese K. Expression of Inhibin/activin Subunits alpha (-α), beta A (-β A) and beta B (-β B) in Placental Tissue of Normal and Intrauterine Growth Restricted (IUGR) Pregnancies. J Mol Histol 2006; 37:43-52. [PMID: 16670820 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-006-9029-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2006] [Accepted: 03/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
During human pregnancy the placenta produces a variety of proteins like steroid hormones and their receptors that are responsible for the establishment and ongoing of the feto-placental unit. Inhibins are dimeric glycoproteins, composed of an alpha-subunit and one of two possible beta-subunits (beta (A) or beta (B)). Aims of the present study were the determination of the frequency and tissue distribution patterns of the inhibin/activin subunits in human placental tissue of normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated with fetal growth restriction (IUGR). Slides of paraffin embedded placental tissue were obtained after delivery from patients diagnosed with IUGR (n = 6) and normal term placentas (n = 8). Tissue samples were fixed and incubated with monoclonal antibodies inhibin/activin-subunits -alpha, -beta (A), -beta (B). Intensity of immunohistochemical reaction on the slides was analysed using a semi-quantitative score and statistical analysis was performed (P<0.05). A significant lower expression of the inhibin-alpha subunit in IUGR extravillous trophoblast compared to normal pregnancies was observed, while the inhibin-alpha immunostaining was significantly upregulated in syncytiotrophoblast. Additionally, a significant down-regulation of inhibin-beta (B) subunit in extravillous trophoblast cells in IUGR syncytiotrophoblast cells was demonstrated. A co-localisation of inhibin-alpha and the beta-subunits was also observed, suggesting a production and secretion of intact inhibin A and inhibin B. Although the precise role of these inhibin/activin subunits in human placenta and IUGR pregnancies is still unclear, they could be involved in autocrine/paracrine signalling, contributing to several aspects like angiogenesis and tissue remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mylonas
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Maistrasse 11, Munich 80337, Germany.
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Robertson DM. Predictors of IVF outcome: markers and protocols. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2006; 2:385-388. [PMID: 19803910 DOI: 10.2217/17455057.2.3.385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Evaluation of: Dynamic assays of inhibin B, anti-Müllerian hormone and estradiol following FSH stimulation and ovarian ultrasonography as predictors of IVF outcome. Hum. Reprod. 20, 3178-3183 (2005) [1] . Developing better methods for monitoring ovarian function and predicting in vitro fertilization outcome is an area of considerable current interest in the assisted reproductive technology field. This article provides an overview of the current protocols used for assessing ovarian function, as well as examining a range of markers of ovarian follicle quantity and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Robertson
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, PO Box 5152, Clayton,Victoria 3168, Australia.
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Mylonas I, Makovitzky J, Hoeing A, Richter DU, Vogl J, Schulze S, Jeschke U, Briese V, Friese K. Inhibin/activin subunits beta-A (-betaA) and beta-B (-betaB) are differentially localised in normal, hyperplastic and malignant human endometrial tissue. Acta Histochem 2006; 108:1-11. [PMID: 16423381 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2005.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2005] [Revised: 11/10/2005] [Accepted: 11/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inhibins (INHs) are dimeric glycoproteins composed of an alpha (-alpha) subunit and one of two possible beta (beta-) subunits (betaA or betaB). The aims of this study were to determine the frequency and distribution of INH beta (betaA and betaB) subunits in normal, hyperplastic and malignant human endometrium. Endometrial tissue was obtained from normal, hyperplastic (simple, complex and atypical) and endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EC) and INH-alpha, -betaA and -betaB were labelled using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. INH-betaA and -betaB labelling was increased significantly between the proliferative and secretory phase (p<0.05). The lowest labelling was demonstrated in EC, being significantly lower than in secretory phase (p<0.01) and in simple, complex and atypical hyperplastic tissue (p<0.05). For inhibin-betaB, the most intense labelling was noted in atypical hyperplasia compared to EC (p<0.05). A strong colocalisation of inhibin-alpha and -betaA could be demonstrated in malignant endometrial tissue, suggesting the production of inhibin A within the tumour. Additionally, only limited colocalisation of inhibin-betaB with -alpha subunit could be observed, suggesting the synthesis of activin B rather than inhibin B in malignant endometrium. In conclusion, INH-betaA and -betaB were labelled in normal, hyperplastic and malignant endometrium. Hyperplastic tissue labelled more intensely than EC for the presence of INH-betaA and -betaB, suggesting a substantial function in endometrial pathogenesis and an important role in endometrial carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mylonas
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.
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29
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Robertson DM, Oehler MK. Emerging role of inhibin as a biomarker for ovarian cancer. WOMENS HEALTH 2005; 1:51-7. [DOI: 10.2217/17455057.1.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Ovarielle Protektion und Erhalt der Fertilität im Rahmen der Therapie gynäkologischer Malignome bei Kinderwunsch. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2005. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-005-0107-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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31
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Perrier d'Hauterive S, Charlet-Renard C, Dubois M, Berndt S, Goffin F, Foidart JM, Geenen V. Human endometrial leukemia inhibitory factor and interleukin-6: control of secretion by transforming growth factor-beta-related members. Neuroimmunomodulation 2005; 12:157-63. [PMID: 15905624 DOI: 10.1159/000084848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2003] [Accepted: 08/11/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) The implantation process is closely linked to the fundamental question of the tolerance of the maternal immune system. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether different members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily could intervene in the first steps of embryo implantation by modulating the secretion of proimplantatory leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and in the tolerance of the fetal graft by regulating proinflammatory interleukin (IL)-6 secretion by human endometrial epithelium (EEC) in vitro. METHODS EEC were isolated from biopsies collected from 16 informed and consenting fertile women and were cultured for 72 h. Cytokine measurements (LIF and IL-6) were realized by ELISA. RESULTS TGF-beta(1) (from 10(-12) to 10(-8)M), -beta(2), -beta(3) and activin A (10(-10) and 10(-8)M) increased LIF secretion by EEC cultures. Inhibin B (10(-10) and 10(-8)M) did not stimulate LIF production by human EEC. Contrastingly, TGF-beta(1) (from 10(-12) to 10(-8)M), -beta(2), -beta(3) and activin A (10(-10) and 10(-8)M) reduced IL-6 release by the same cells. Activin A at 10(-8) M also significantly reduced the stimulating effect of IL-1beta (10(-9)M) which is known to stimulate LIF production by EEC. Only the highest concentration of inhibin B (10(-8)M) reduced IL-6 secretion by EEC, but did not modulate IL-1beta-induced stimulation of IL-6 secretion. CONCLUSION(S) Besides their role in the control of the process of implantation and in the induction of embryonic mesoderm, different members of the TGF-beta superfamily may also contribute in the reproductive process by enhancing endometrial proimplantatory LIF secretion and reducing proinflammatory IL-6 release by EEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Perrier d'Hauterive
- University of Liège, Department of Medicine, Center of Immunology, Institute of Pathology CHU-B23, Liège-Sart Tilman, Belgium.
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Kumanov P, Nandipati KC, Tomova A, Robeva R, Agarwal A. Significance of inhibin in reproductive pathophysiology and current clinical applications. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 10:786-812. [PMID: 15970011 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61124-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The human reproductive process is regulated by complex mechanisms that involve many organs, including the brain, gonads and endocrine system. It has been more than 70 years since the name 'inhibin' was used to describe a substance produced in the gonads that negatively regulates pituitary secretion. Inhibin B controls FSH secretion via a negative feedback mechanism. It is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the Sertoli cells of the testis and granulosa and theca cells of the ovary. Serum inhibin B concentrations are positively related to testicular volume and sperm counts. Current understanding of inhibin physiology and pathology in the human suggests that inhibin B may be of importance as a marker of Sertoli cell function in men with infertility and as a prognostic indicator in women undergoing ovulation induction therapy. Inhibin concentrations are elevated in patients with granulosa cell tumours and in post-menopausal women with mucinous ovarian cancers. Immunoreactivity against the inhibin alpha-subunit was identified in all cases of adrenal cortical adenoma and carcinoma, and levels are suppressed in the malignant prostate disease. This article discusses the structure, regulation and clinical use of inhibin and other related substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Kumanov
- Clinical Centre for Endocrinology, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Lutchman Singh K, Davies M, Chatterjee R. Fertility in female cancer survivors: pathophysiology, preservation and the role of ovarian reserve testing. Hum Reprod Update 2005; 11:69-89. [PMID: 15569700 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmh052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The improved long-term survival of adolescents and young women treated for cancer has resulted in an increased focus on the effects of chemotherapy on ovarian function and its preservation. These women may seek advice and treatment regarding their reproductive status, including ways of preserving their fertility and preventing a premature menopause--factors that can have a profound impact on their quality of life. This article comprehensively reviews ovarian reserve testing (ORT) in general. Special emphasis is placed on patients with cancer, including the pathophysiology of gonadal damage following chemotherapy, fertility preservation and the potential role of ORT. Baseline parameters of ovarian reserve [FSH LH, estradiol, inhibin B and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH)] have not yet performed sufficiently well in predicting poor outcome in assisted reproduction, but biochemical markers of ovarian reserve appear to be better than chronological age. Inhibin B and AMH show potential for future use. Dynamic testing appears to show much promise, especially stimulated levels of inhibin B and estradiol. The most promising tests of ovarian reserve are the biophysical markers, where total antral follicle count was found to be most discriminatory followed by ovarian volume. Combination of biochemical, biophysical and clinical markers of ovarian reserve may also improve predictive capacity. However, there is a lack of data pertinent to ORT in cancer. As yet there is no single clinically useful test to predict ovarian reserve accurately. Patients with cancer represent a distinct cohort who have particular concerns about their future fertility and the possibility of a premature menopause, they can benefit greatly from knowledge of their functional ovarian reserve. Large, prospective, randomized, adequately controlled studies specific to different geographical areas are required in a control population of comparable reproductive age to determine the potential role of ORT in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerryn Lutchman Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson and Obstetric Hospital, University College London Hospital, Huntley Street, London WC1E 6DH, UK.
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Khosravi J, Krishna RG, Khaja N, Bodani U, Diamandi A. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of total inhibin: direct determination based on inhibin alpha subunit-specific monoclonal antibodies. Clin Biochem 2004; 37:370-6. [PMID: 15087252 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2004.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2003] [Revised: 01/27/2004] [Accepted: 01/27/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inhibin circulates in various molecular weight forms. Alpha (alpha)-subunit-directed total inhibin immunoassays, which detect all forms of alpha subunits plus the alpha/beta inhibin dimers, have been found valuable in the diagnosis and monitoring of ovarian cancer. Because of the dependency of the published methods on boiling sample pre-treatment with SDS and unavailability of a commercial assay, we developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for direct determination of total inhibin. DESIGN AND METHODS Method development involved a pair of well-characterized inhibin alpha subunit-directed antibodies and determination of the effects of various assay parameters. Selection of the optimized protocol was guided by the outcome of comparative sample analysis using previously reported boiling sample pre-treatment reagents and protocols. RESULTS We report development of a simplified ELISA for total inhibin. Method evaluation data demonstrated acceptable analytical performance characteristics with detection limit of 2 ng/l (recombinant inhibin-A), dynamic range of 12.5-500 ng/l, and intra- and inter-assay imprecision of 2.3-4.6% and 3.3-5.1% at total inhibin concentrations of approximately 60-400 ng/l, respectively. The mean (+/-SD) recovery from spiked serum samples averaged 109 +/- 14% and recovery in response to serial sample dilution was 99 +/- 10%. Serum values by the direct method (n = 40) correlated strongly with those obtained after sample pre-treatment by boiling with SDS (r = 0.97). As expected, the total inhibin immunoreactivity in human follicular fluid fractionated by HPLC gel filtration in multiple immunoreactive peaks (8-250 kDa). In serum samples from postmenopausal women with ovarian cancer, the assay detected significantly higher total inhibin levels than in samples from normal postmenopausal controls. CONCLUSION The development of a fast and simplified ELISA should facilitate wider investigations of pathophysiology and diagnostic potential of total inhibin measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Khosravi
- Diagnostic Systems Laboratories Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Mylonas I, Jeschke U, Wiest I, Hoeing A, Vogl J, Shabani N, Kuhn C, Schulze S, Kupka MS, Friese K. Inhibin/activin subunits alpha, beta-A and beta-B are differentially expressed in normal human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. Histochem Cell Biol 2004; 122:461-71. [PMID: 15480736 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-004-0709-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Inhibins are dimeric glycoproteins composed of an alpha (alpha) subunit and one of two possible beta (beta-) subunits (betaA or betaB). The aims of this study were to assess the frequency and tissue distribution patterns of the inhibin subunits in normal human endometrium. Samples from human endometrium from proliferative phase (PP; n=32), early secretory phase (ES; n=10) and late secretory phase (LS; n=12) were obtained. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and a statistical analysis were performed. All three inhibin subunits were expressed by normal endometrium by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Inhibin-alpha was primarily detected in glandular epithelial cells, while inhibin-beta subunits were additionally localised in stromal tissue. Inhibin-alpha staining reaction increased significantly between PP and ES (P<0.05), PP and LS (P<0.01), and ES and LS (P<0.02). Inhibin-betaA and -betaB were significant higher in LS than PP (P<0.05) and LS than ES (P<0.05). All three inhibin subunits were expressed by human endometrium varying across the menstrual cycle. This suggests substantial functions in human implantation of inhibin-alpha subunit, while stromal expression of the beta subunits could be important in the paracrine signalling for adequate endometrial maturation. The distinct expression in human endometrial tissue suggests a synthesis of inhibins into the lumen and a predominant secretion of activins into the stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mylonas
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337 Munich, Germany.
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Mylonas I, Makovitzky J, Fernow A, Richter DU, Jeschke U, Briese V, Gerber B, Friese K. Expression of the inhibin/activin subunits alpha (α), beta-A (βA) and beta-B (βB) in benign human endometrial polyps and tamoxifen-associated polyps. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2004; 272:59-66. [PMID: 15309402 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-004-0666-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2004] [Accepted: 06/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibins (INH) are dimeric glycoproteins, composed of an alpha subunit (INH-alpha) and one of two possible beta subunits (INH-betaA or INH-betaB). They have substantial roles in human reproduction and in endocrine-responsive tumours. Therefore, the aims of this study were to determine the frequency and tissue distribution of INH-alpha, INH-betaA and INH-betaB in normal human endometrium and glandular-cystic endometrial polyps, and polyps caused by tamoxifen use. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tissue samples were obtained from women in the proliferative, early secretory and late secretory phase as well as glandular-cystic polyps and endometrial polyps associated with tamoxifen use (n = 5 each). Immunohistochemistry with specific monoclonal antibodies, a semi-quantitative analysis and statistical evaluation was performed. RESULTS INH-alpha, INH-betaA and INH-betaB were primarily observed in glandular and luminal epithelial cells, with a variant staining intensity in stromal cells. INH-alpha in glands was significantly higher during the early secretory phase (p < 0.05) and the late secretory phase (p < 0.01) than in the proliferative phase with a significant difference between the early secretory and the late secretory phases (p < 0.01). INH-betaA expression was significantly higher during the late secretory than the proliferative phase (p < 0.05) and the late secretory than the early secretory phase (p < 0.05), with no significant differences for INH-betaB. Glandular-cystic polyps showed significantly lower expression of INH-alpha and INH-betaA than the late secretory endometria (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01 respectively). Additionally, tamoxifen-associated polyps also demonstrated a significantly lower expression of INH-alpha and INH-betaA than late secretory endometria (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01 respectively). No statistical differences were observed between tamoxifen-associated and glandular-cystic polyps. DISCUSSION INH-alpha, INH-betaA and INH-betaB were expressed in normal endometrium and endometrial polyps. A cyclical expression of INH-alpha and INH-betaA in normal glands may reflect a functional and hormone-dependent role in human endometrium. Significant differences in staining reaction between the late secretory endometria and polyps suggest that this tissue remains in the proliferating state rather than the secretory state. Therefore, endometrial polyps may be tumours of dysregulation with mainly proliferating characteristics, being unable to synchronise with normal endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mylonas
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337 Munich, Germany
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Peng C. The TGF-beta superfamily and its roles in the human ovary and placenta. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2004; 25:834-44. [PMID: 14532952 DOI: 10.1016/s1701-2163(16)30674-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily consists of a large group of growth and differentiation factors, such as TGF-betas, activins, inhibins, growth and differentiation factors (GDFs), and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). These molecules act through specific receptor complexes that are composed of type I and type II serine/threonine receptor kinases. The receptor kinases subsequently activate Smad proteins, which then propagate the signals into the nucleus to regulate target gene expression. Several ligands in this family, such as TGF-betas, activins, inhibins, BMP-15, and GDF-9, play important roles in regulating human ovarian functions, including follicle development and maturation. Activin and TGF-beta are also involved in regulating placental development and functions. Abnormal expression or function of these ligands has been found in several pathological conditions. This review summarizes the role of the TGF-beta superfamily in human ovarian and placental regulation and function, and the potential clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Peng
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Bernard DJ, Burns KH, Haupt B, Matzuk MM, Woodruff TK. Normal reproductive function in InhBP/p120-deficient mice. Mol Cell Biol 2003; 23:4882-91. [PMID: 12832474 PMCID: PMC162213 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.23.14.4882-4891.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The inhibins are gonadal transforming growth factor beta superfamily protein hormones that suppress pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis. Recently, betaglycan and inhibin binding protein (InhBP/p120, also known as the product of immunoglobulin superfamily gene 1 [IGSF1]) were identified as candidate inhibin coreceptors, shedding light on the molecular basis of how inhibins may affect target cells. Activins, which are structurally related to the inhibins, act within the pituitary to stimulate FSH production. Betaglycan increases the affinity of inhibins for the activin type IIA (ACVR2) receptor, thereby blocking activin binding and signaling through this receptor. InhBP/p120 may not directly bind inhibins but may interact with the activin type IB receptor, ALK4, and participate in inhibin B's antagonism of activin signaling. To better understand the in vivo functions of InhBP/p120, we characterized the InhBP/p120 mRNAs and gene in mice and generated InhBP/p120 mutant mice by gene targeting in embryonic stem cells. InhBP/p120 mutant male and female mice were viable and fertile. Moreover, they showed no alterations in FSH synthesis or secretion or in ovarian or testicular function. These data contribute to a growing body of evidence indicating that InhBP/p120 does not play an essential role in inhibin biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Neurobiology and Physiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60201, USA.
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