1
|
Xu J, Zhou Y, Yan C, Wang X, Lou J, Luo Y, Gao S, Wang J, Wu L, Gao X, Shao A. Neurosteroids: A novel promise for the treatment of stroke and post-stroke complications. J Neurochem 2021; 160:113-127. [PMID: 34482541 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is the primary reason for death and disability worldwide, with few treatment strategies to date. Neurosteroids, which are natural molecules in the brain, have aroused great interest in the field of stroke. Neurosteroids are a kind of steroid that acts on the nervous system, and are synthesized in the mitochondria of neurons or glial cells using cholesterol or other steroidal precursors. Neurosteroids mainly include estrogen, progesterone (PROG), allopregnanolone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and vitamin D (VD). Most of the preclinical studies have confirmed that neurosteroids can decrease the risk of stroke, and improve stroke outcomes. In the meantime, neurosteroids have been shown to have a positive therapeutic significance in some post-stroke complications, such as epilepsy, depression, anxiety, cardiac complications, movement disorders, and post-stroke pain. In this review, we report the historical background, modulatory mechanisms of neurosteroids in stroke and post-stroke complications, and emphasize on the application prospect of neurosteroids in stroke therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Caochong Yan
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianyao Lou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Luo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Changxing Branch), Changxing, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shiqi Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Wu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangfu Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
González SL, Coronel MF, Raggio MC, Labombarda F. Progesterone receptor-mediated actions and the treatment of central nervous system disorders: An up-date of the known and the challenge of the unknown. Steroids 2020; 153:108525. [PMID: 31634489 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2019.108525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone has been shown to exert a wide range of remarkable protective actions in experimental models of central nervous system injury or disease. However, the intimate mechanisms involved in each of these beneficial effects are not fully depicted. In this review, we intend to give the readers a thorough revision on what is known about the participation of diverse receptors and signaling pathways in progesterone-mediated neuroprotective, pro-myelinating and anti-inflammatory outcomes, as well as point out to novel regulatory mechanisms that could open new perspectives in steroid-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana L González
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María F Coronel
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, Presidente Perón 1500, B1629AHJ Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María C Raggio
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia Labombarda
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Neuroendócrina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
González-Orozco JC, Camacho-Arroyo I. Progesterone Actions During Central Nervous System Development. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:503. [PMID: 31156378 PMCID: PMC6533804 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although progesterone is a steroid hormone mainly associated with female reproductive functions, such as uterine receptivity and maintenance of pregnancy, accumulating data have shown its physiological actions to extend to several non-reproductive functions in the central nervous system (CNS) both in males and females. In fact, progesterone is de novo synthesized in specific brain regions by neurons and glial cells and is involved in the regulation of various molecular and cellular processes underlying myelination, neuroprotection, neuromodulation, learning and memory, and mood. Furthermore, progesterone has been reported to be implicated in critical developmental events, such as cell differentiation and neural circuits formation. This view is supported by the increase in progesterone synthesis observed during pregnancy in both the placenta and the fetal brain. In the present review, we will focus on progesterone actions during CNS development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos González-Orozco
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wahid B, Bashir H, Bilal M, Wahid K, Sumrin A. Developing a deeper insight into reproductive biomarkers. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2017; 44:159-170. [PMID: 29376011 PMCID: PMC5783911 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2017.44.4.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of biomarkers of reproductive medicine is still in its infancy because many black boxes are still present in reproductive medicine. Novel approaches to human infertility diagnostics and treatment must be developed because reproductive medicine has lagged behind in the implementation of biomarkers in clinical medicine. Despite the dearth of the available literature, the current rapid pace of publications suggests that this gap will soon be filled therefore; this review is a précis of the research that has been done so far and will provide a basis for the development of biomarkers in reproductive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braira Wahid
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.,Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnosis and Research, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hamid Bashir
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Khansa Wahid
- Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Aleena Sumrin
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
The Progestin Receptor Interactome in the Female Mouse Hypothalamus: Interactions with Synaptic Proteins Are Isoform Specific and Ligand Dependent. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0272-17. [PMID: 28955722 PMCID: PMC5605756 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0272-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Progestins bind to the progestin receptor (PR) isoforms, PR-A and PR-B, in brain to influence development, female reproduction, anxiety, and stress. Hormone-activated PRs associate with multiple proteins to form functional complexes. In the present study, proteins from female mouse hypothalamus that associate with PR were isolated using affinity pull-down assays with glutathione S-transferase–tagged mouse PR-A and PR-B. Using complementary proteomics approaches, reverse phase protein array (RPPA) and mass spectrometry, we identified hypothalamic proteins that interact with PR in a ligand-dependent and isoform-specific manner and were confirmed by Western blot. Synaptic proteins, including synapsin-I and synapsin-II, interacted with agonist-bound PR isoforms, suggesting that both isoforms function in synaptic plasticity. In further support, synaptogyrin-III and synapsin-III associated with PR-A and PR-B, respectively. PR also interacted with kinases, including c-Src, mTOR, and MAPK1, confirming phosphorylation as an integral process in rapid effects of PR in the brain. Consistent with a role in transcriptional regulation, PR associated with transcription factors and coactivators in a ligand-specific and isoform-dependent manner. Interestingly, both PR isoforms associated with a key regulator of energy homeostasis, FoxO1, suggesting a novel role for PR in energy metabolism. Because many identified proteins in this PR interactome are synaptic proteins, we tested the hypothesis that progestins function in synaptic plasticity. Indeed, progesterone enhanced synaptic density, by increasing synapsin-I–positive synapses, in rat primary cortical neuronal cultures. This novel combination of RPPA and mass spectrometry allowed identification of PR action in synaptic remodeling and energy homeostasis and reveals unique roles for progestins in brain function and disease.
Collapse
|
6
|
Willing J, Wagner CK. Progesterone Receptor Expression in the Developing Mesocortical Dopamine Pathway: Importance for Complex Cognitive Behavior in Adulthood. Neuroendocrinology 2015; 103:207-22. [PMID: 26065828 PMCID: PMC4675705 DOI: 10.1159/000434725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous psychiatric and behavioral disorders such as autism, attention deficit disorder and schizophrenia may involve disruptions in the development of the mesocortical dopamine pathway, consisting of dopaminergic projections from the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Nuclear steroid hormone receptors are powerful transcription factors and can profoundly and permanently alter fundamental processes of neural development. Nuclear progesterone receptor (PR) is transiently expressed in both the VTA and the PFC of rodents during perinatal life, suggesting that PR may regulate the normal development of this important behavioral circuit. METHODS AND RESULTS Here, we demonstrate that virtually all PR-immunoreactive (PR-ir) cells in the VTA also express tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity (TH-ir). In addition, retrograde tract tracing reveals that many PR-ir cells in the VTA project to the mPFC. Administration of a PR antagonist to rats during the neonatal period decreased TH-ir fiber density in the prelimbic mPFC of juveniles (postnatal day 25) and decreased levels of TH-ir in the VTA of adults. Neonatal treatment with a PR antagonist impaired adult performance on a passive inhibitory avoidance task and an attentional set-shifting task, measures of behavioral inhibition/impulsivity and cognitive flexibility, respectively. TH-ir levels in the VTA were reduced and cognitive flexibility was impaired in PR knockout mice as well. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide novel insights into a potential role for PR in the developmental etiology of behavioral disorders that involve impairments in complex cognitive behaviors and have implications for the use of synthetic progestins in humans during critical neurodevelopmental periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jari Willing
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY
- Department of Psychology: Behavioral Neuroscience Division University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL
| | - Christine K Wagner
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Guennoun R, Labombarda F, Gonzalez Deniselle MC, Liere P, De Nicola AF, Schumacher M. Progesterone and allopregnanolone in the central nervous system: response to injury and implication for neuroprotection. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 146:48-61. [PMID: 25196185 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone is a well-known steroid hormone, synthesized by ovaries and placenta in females, and by adrenal glands in both males and females. Several tissues are targets of progesterone and the nervous system is a major one. Progesterone is also locally synthesized by the nervous system and qualifies, therefore, as a neurosteroid. In addition, the nervous system has the capacity to bio-convert progesterone into its active metabolite allopregnanolone. The enzymes required for progesterone and allopregnanolone synthesis are widely distributed in brain and spinal cord. Increased local biosynthesis of pregnenolone, progesterone and 5α-dihydroprogesterone may be a part of an endogenous neuroprotective mechanism in response to nervous system injuries. Progesterone and allopregnanolone neuroprotective effects have been widely recognized. Multiple receptors or associated proteins may contribute to the progesterone effects: classical nuclear receptors (PR), membrane progesterone receptor component 1 (PGRMC1), membrane progesterone receptors (mPR), and γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors after conversion to allopregnanolone. In this review, we will succinctly describe progesterone and allopregnanolone biosynthetic pathways and enzyme distribution in brain and spinal cord. Then, we will summarize our work on progesterone receptor distribution and cellular expression in brain and spinal cord; neurosteroid stimulation after nervous system injuries (spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and stroke); and on progesterone and allopregnanolone neuroprotective effects in different experimental models including stroke and spinal cord injury. We will discuss in detail the neuroprotective effects of progesterone on the nervous system via PR, and of allopregnanolone via its modulation of GABAA receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Guennoun
- UMR 788, Inserm and University Paris-Sud, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Bicêtre, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - F Labombarda
- Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental and University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - P Liere
- UMR 788, Inserm and University Paris-Sud, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Bicêtre, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - A F De Nicola
- Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental and University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Schumacher
- UMR 788, Inserm and University Paris-Sud, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Bicêtre, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schumacher M, Mattern C, Ghoumari A, Oudinet JP, Liere P, Labombarda F, Sitruk-Ware R, De Nicola AF, Guennoun R. Revisiting the roles of progesterone and allopregnanolone in the nervous system: resurgence of the progesterone receptors. Prog Neurobiol 2013; 113:6-39. [PMID: 24172649 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Revised: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone is commonly considered as a female reproductive hormone and is well-known for its role in pregnancy. It is less well appreciated that progesterone and its metabolite allopregnanolone are also male hormones, as they are produced in both sexes by the adrenal glands. In addition, they are synthesized within the nervous system. Progesterone and allopregnanolone are associated with adaptation to stress, and increased production of progesterone within the brain may be part of the response of neural cells to injury. Progesterone receptors (PR) are widely distributed throughout the brain, but their study has been mainly limited to the hypothalamus and reproductive functions, and the extra-hypothalamic receptors have been neglected. This lack of information about brain functions of PR is unexpected, as the protective and trophic effects of progesterone are much investigated, and as the therapeutic potential of progesterone as a neuroprotective and promyelinating agent is currently being assessed in clinical trials. The little attention devoted to the brain functions of PR may relate to the widely accepted assumption that non-reproductive actions of progesterone may be mainly mediated by allopregnanolone, which does not bind to PR, but acts as a potent positive modulator of γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A) receptors. The aim of this review is to critically discuss effects of progesterone on the nervous system via PR, and of allopregnanolone via its modulation of GABA(A) receptors, with main focus on the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Schumacher
- UMR 788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - C Mattern
- M et P Pharma AG, Emmetten, Switzerland
| | - A Ghoumari
- UMR 788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - J P Oudinet
- UMR 788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - P Liere
- UMR 788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - F Labombarda
- Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental and University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - R Sitruk-Ware
- Population Council and Rockefeller University, New York, USA
| | - A F De Nicola
- Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental and University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - R Guennoun
- UMR 788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jung EM, An BS, Yang H, Choi KC, Jeung EB. Biomarker genes for detecting estrogenic activity of endocrine disruptors via estrogen receptors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2012; 9:698-711. [PMID: 22690157 PMCID: PMC3367271 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph9030698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are compounds used in various industrial products, drugs, and cosmetics. They can be found in the environment and disturb the endocrine and reproductive systems, resulting in adverse effects to humans and wildlife such as birth defects and developmental disorders. Since several EDs have a structure similar to that of endogenous steroid hormones such as estrogens, they intend to have an affinity for steroid hormone receptors and alter hormone-mediated metabolism by binding to these receptors. EDs are therefore a global concern and assays should be developed to efficiently determine whether these compounds are detrimental to biological systems. Diverse experimental methods may help determine the endocrine disrupting potential of EDs and evaluate the adverse effects of a single and/or combination of these reagents. Currently, biomarkers have been employed to objectively measure EDs potency and understand the underlying mechanisms. Further studies are required to develop ideal screening methods and biomarkers to determine EDs potency at environmentally relevant concentrations. In this review, we describe the biomarkers for estrogenicity of EDs identified both in vitro and in vivo, and introduce a biomarker, cabindin-D9k (CaBP-9k), that may be used to assess estrogenic activity of EDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eui-Man Jung
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tognoni CM, Chadwick JG, Ackeifi CA, Tetel MJ. Nuclear receptor coactivators are coexpressed with steroid receptors and regulated by estradiol in mouse brain. Neuroendocrinology 2011; 94:49-57. [PMID: 21311177 PMCID: PMC3150972 DOI: 10.1159/000323780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 12/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The steroid hormones, including estradiol (E) and progesterone, act in the brain to regulate female reproductive behavior and physiology. These hormones mediate many of their biological effects by binding to their respective intracellular receptors. The receptors for estrogens (ER) and progestins (PR) interact with nuclear receptor coactivators to initiate transcription of steroid-responsive genes. Work from our laboratory and others reveals that nuclear receptor coactivators, including steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) and SRC-2, function in brain to modulate ER-mediated induction of the PR gene and hormone-dependent behaviors. In order for steroid receptors and coactivators to function together, both must be expressed in the same cells. METHODS Triple-label immunofluorescence was used to determine if E-induced PR cells also express SRC-1 or SRC-2 in reproductively relevant brain regions of the female mouse. RESULTS The majority of E-induced PR cells in the medial preoptic area (61%), ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (63%) and arcuate nucleus (76%) coexpressed both SRC-1 and SRC-2. A smaller proportion of PR cells expressed either SRC-1 or SRC-2, while a few PR cells expressed neither coactivator. In addition, compared to control animals, 17β-estradiol benzoate (EB) treatment increased SRC-1 levels in the arcuate nucleus, but not the medial preoptic area or the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. EB did not alter SRC-2 expression in any of the three brain regions analyzed. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the present findings identify a population of cells in which steroid receptors and nuclear receptor coactivators may interact to modulate steroid sensitivity in brain and regulate hormone-dependent behaviors in female mice. Given that cell culture studies reveal that SRC-1 and SRC-2 can mediate distinct steroid-signaling pathways, the present findings suggest that steroids can produce a variety of complex responses in these specialized brain cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marc J. Tetel
- *Marc J. Tetel, Neuroscience Program, Wellesley College, 106 Central St., Wellesley, MA 02481 (USA), Tel. +1 781 283 3003, E-Mail
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tetel MJ, Pfaff DW. Contributions of estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-ß to the regulation of behavior. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2010; 1800:1084-9. [PMID: 20097268 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2010.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2009] [Revised: 01/15/2010] [Accepted: 01/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Studies of the mechanisms by which estrogens influence brain function and behavior have advanced from the explication of individual hormone receptors, neural circuitry and individual gene expression. Now, we can report patterns of estrogen receptor subtype contributions to patterns of behavior. Moreover, new work demonstrates important contributions of nuclear receptor coactivator expression in the central nervous system. In this paper, our current state of knowledge is reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc J Tetel
- Neuroscience Program, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Díaz NF, Díaz-Martínez NE, Velasco I, Camacho-Arroyo I. Progesterone increases dopamine neurone number in differentiating mouse embryonic stem cells. J Neuroendocrinol 2009; 21:730-6. [PMID: 19500215 PMCID: PMC2763283 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2009.01891.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone participates in the regulation of several functions in mammals, including brain differentiation and dopaminergic transmission, but the role of progesterone in dopaminergic cell differentiation is unknown. We investigated the effects of progesterone on dopaminergic differentiation of embryonic stem cells using a five-stage protocol. Cells were incubated with different progesterone concentrations during the proliferation (stage 4) or differentiation (stage 5) phases. Progesterone added at 1, 10 and 100 nm during stage 4 increased the number of dopamine neurones at stage 5 by 72%, 80% and 62%, respectively, compared to the control group. The administration of progesterone at stage 5 did not induce significant changes in the number of dopamine neurones. These actions were not mediated by the activation of intracellular progesterone receptors because RU 486 did not block the positive effects of progesterone on differentiation to dopaminergic neurones. The results obtained suggest that progesterone should prove useful with respect to producing higher proportions of dopamine neurones from embryonic stem cells in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Néstor F. Díaz
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F. 04510, México
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F. 04510, México
| | - Néstor E. Díaz-Martínez
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F. 04510, México
| | - Iván Velasco
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F. 04510, México
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México D.F. 04510, México
- Corresponding author: Dr. Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo. Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico. México D.F. 04510, México. Tel: (52) 555 622 3869. Fax: (52) 555 616 2010.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guzmán C, Camacho-Arroyo I, De León-Nava MA, Morales-Montor J. Neonatal exposure to estradiol induces resistance to helminth infection and changes in the expression of sex steroid hormone receptors in the brain and spleen in adult mice of both sexes. Brain Behav Immun 2009; 23:709-15. [PMID: 19258031 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2009.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2008] [Revised: 02/13/2009] [Accepted: 02/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A single injection of 17beta-estradiol administered to 4-day-old male and female mice increased the cellular immune response, and induced resistance to Taenia crassiceps cysticercosis as well as changes in the expression pattern of progesterone (PR) and estrogen receptor (ER) isoforms in the brain and splenocytes. Regardless of gender, when treated mice reached adulthood, they were highly resistant to infection. Female mice presented early vaginal opening and altered estrous cycles. In male and female mice, the expression of the PR and ER isoforms in the brain was differentially regulated after neonatal exposure to estradiol. Moreover, an increase in the expression of IL-4 and IFN-gamma was found in the serum of experimentally infected neonatally estrogenized animals, which correlated with the observed protection against T. crassiceps infection. In conclusion, early exposure to estradiol permanently modifies immune system activity and sex steroid hormone receptors in the brain, and causes profound changes in sex-associated susceptibility, leading to resistance to helminth parasite infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Guzmán
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Quadros PS, Schlueter LJ, Wagner CK. Distribution of progesterone receptor immunoreactivity in the midbrain and hindbrain of postnatal rats. Dev Neurobiol 2008; 68:1378-90. [PMID: 18712784 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear steroid hormone receptors are powerful transcription factors and therefore have the potential to influence and regulate fundamental processes of neural development. The expression of progesterone receptors (PR) has been described in the developing forebrain of rats and mice, and the mammalian brain may be exposed to significant amounts of progesterone, either from maternal sources and/or de novo synthesis of progesterone from cholesterol within the brain. The present study examined the distribution of PR immunoreactive (PRir) cells within the midbrain and hindbrain of postnatal rats. The results demonstrate that PR is transiently expressed within the first 2 weeks of life in specific motor, sensory and reticular core nuclei as well as within midbrain dopaminergic cell groups such as the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area. Additionally, robust PRir was observed in cells of the lower rhombic lip, a transient structure giving rise to precerebellar nuclei. These results suggest that progestins and progesterone receptors may play a fundamental role in the postnatal development of numerous midbrain and hindbrain nuclei, including some areas implicated in human disorders. Additionally, these findings contribute to the increasing evidence that steroid hormones and their receptors influence neural development in a wide range of brain areas, including many not typically associated with reproduction or neuroendocrine function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Princy S Quadros
- Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware State University, Dover, DE 19901, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Progesterone (P), the most biologically active progestin of ovarian origin, modulates numerous cellular functions in the central nervous system to coordinate physiology and reproduction. The neurobiological activity of P is mediated not by a single form of the progestin receptor (PR), but by two neural isoforms of PRs, PR-A and PR-B. Classical model of P action assumes that these neural effects are primarily mediated via their intracellular PRs, acting as transcriptional regulators, in steroid-sensitive neurons, modulating genes and genomic networks. Evidence has emerged, however, that activation of neural PRs is much more diverse; four distinct classes of molecules, neurotransmitters, peptide growth factors, cyclic nucleotides, and neurosteroids have been shown to activate the PRs via cross-talk and pathway convergence. In addition, rapid signaling events associated with membrane receptors and/or subpopulations of cytoplasmic PRs, via activation of protein kinase cascades, regulate PR gene expression in the cytoplasm independent of PR nuclear action. The increasing in vitro and in vivo evidence of differential transcriptional activities and coregulator interactions between PR-A and PR-B predict that these isoforms could have distinct roles in mediating additional and/or alternate signaling pathways within steroid-sensitive neurons. In this minireview, we evaluate the available data and discuss the possible roles of the isoforms in the regulation of neurobiological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaila Mani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030-3411, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Guennoun R, Meffre D, Labombarda F, Gonzalez SL, Gonzalez Deniselle MC, Stein DG, De Nicola AF, Schumacher M. The membrane-associated progesterone-binding protein 25-Dx: Expression, cellular localization and up-regulation after brain and spinal cord injuries. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 57:493-505. [PMID: 17618691 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2007.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2007] [Revised: 05/14/2007] [Accepted: 05/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone has neuroprotective effects in the injured and diseased spinal cord and after traumatic brain injury (TBI). In addition to intracellular progesterone receptors (PR), membrane-binding sites of progesterone may be involved in neuroprotection. A first putative membrane receptor of progesterone, distinct from the classical intracellular PR isoforms, with a single membrane-spanning domain, has been cloned from porcine liver. Homologous proteins were cloned in rats (25-Dx), mice (PGRMC1) and humans (Hpr.6). We will refer to this progesterone-binding protein as 25-Dx. The distribution and regulation of 25-Dx in the nervous system may provide some clues to its functions. In spinal cord, 25-Dx is localized in cell membranes of dorsal horn neurons and ependymal cells lining the central canal. A role of 25-Dx in mediating the protective effects of progesterone in the spinal cord is supported by the observation that its mRNA and protein are up-regulated by progesterone in dorsal horn of the injured spinal cord. In contrast, the classical intracellular PRs were down-regulated under these conditions. In brain, 25-Dx is particularly abundant in the hypothalamic area, circumventricular organs, ependymal cells of the ventricular walls, and the meninges. Interestingly, it is co-expressed with vasopressin in neurons of the paraventricular, supraoptic and retrochiasmatic nuclei. In response to TBI, 25-Dx expression is up-regulated in neurons and induced in astrocytes. The expression of 25-Dx in structures involved in cerebrospinal fluid production and osmoregulation, and its up-regulation after brain damage, point to a potentially important role of this progesterone-binding protein in the maintenance of water homeostasis after TBI. Our observations suggest that progesterone's actions may involve different signaling mechanisms depending on the pathophysiological context, and that 25-Dx may be involved in the neuroprotective effect of progesterone in the injured brain and spinal cord.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Guennoun
- Inserm UMR788 and University Paris 11, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Schumacher M, Guennoun R, Stein DG, De Nicola AF. Progesterone: Therapeutic opportunities for neuroprotection and myelin repair. Pharmacol Ther 2007; 116:77-106. [PMID: 17659348 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2007.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2007] [Accepted: 06/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone and its metabolites promote the viability of neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Their neuroprotective effects have been documented in different lesion models, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), experimentally induced ischemia, spinal cord lesions and a genetic model of motoneuron disease. Progesterone plays an important role in developmental myelination and in myelin repair, and the aging nervous system appears to remain sensitive to some of progesterone's beneficial effects. Thus, the hormone may promote neuroregeneration by several different actions by reducing inflammation, swelling and apoptosis, thereby increasing the survival of neurons, and by promoting the formation of new myelin sheaths. Recognition of the important pleiotropic effects of progesterone opens novel perspectives for the treatment of brain lesions and diseases of the nervous system. Over the last decade, there have been a growing number of studies showing that exogenous administration of progesterone or some of its metabolites can be successfully used to treat traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, as well as ischemic stroke. Progesterone can also be synthesized by neurons and by glial cells within the nervous system. This finding opens the way for a promising therapeutic strategy, the use of pharmacological agents, such as ligands of the translocator protein (18 kDa) (TSPO; the former peripheral benzodiazepine receptor or PBR), to locally increase the synthesis of steroids with neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties. A concept is emerging that progesterone may exert different actions and use different signaling mechanisms in normal and injured neural tissue.
Collapse
|
18
|
Rodríguez-Dorantes M, Cerbón MA, Larralde C, Morales-Montor J. Modified progesterone receptor expression in the hypothalamus of cysticercotic male mice. Acta Trop 2007; 103:123-32. [PMID: 17632066 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2007.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2007] [Revised: 05/22/2007] [Accepted: 05/24/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone participates in numerous developmental and behavioral processes in the mammalian brain. The intracellular (is this really intracellular? nuclear membrane?) progesterone receptor is expressed as two isoforms: a full-length form (PR-B) and the N-terminally truncated one (PR-A). Experimental intraperitoneal infections with Taenia crassiceps in mice exhibit the tendency of the parasites to develop more rapidly in females. Male mice undergo a feminization process characterized by their oestrogenisation, deandrogenisation and loss of sexual and aggressive patterns of behavior. Hence, we suspected that changes in PR expression in the brain could be involved in the feminization of the infected male mice and in the loss of the sexual and aggressive behaviors. We have studied the expression of PR isoforms in the normal and infected male mouse brain. Transcripts of both receptor isoforms (PR-A and -B) were readily detectable in normal and infected mice, but differentially regulated during infection depending on the area of the brain studied. Although the precise role of progesterone in mediating the behavioral changes noted during infection is not fully understood, our data implicate a role for PR signaling in the feminization process. CNS activity is potentially involved in the network that regulates the oestrogenisation and deandrogenisation observed in chronically infected male mice, as well as in the behavioral peculiarities observed in this parasitic infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Rodríguez-Dorantes
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, AP 70228, DF 04510, México
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schumacher M, Guennoun R, Ghoumari A, Massaad C, Robert F, El-Etr M, Akwa Y, Rajkowski K, Baulieu EE. Novel perspectives for progesterone in hormone replacement therapy, with special reference to the nervous system. Endocr Rev 2007; 28:387-439. [PMID: 17431228 DOI: 10.1210/er.2006-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The utility and safety of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy has recently been put into question by large clinical trials. Their outcome has been extensively commented upon, but discussions have mainly been limited to the effects of estrogens. In fact, progestagens are generally only considered with respect to their usefulness in preventing estrogen stimulation of uterine hyperplasia and malignancy. In addition, various risks have been attributed to progestagens and their omission from hormone replacement therapy has been considered, but this may underestimate their potential benefits and therapeutic promises. A major reason for the controversial reputation of progestagens is that they are generally considered as a single class. Moreover, the term progesterone is often used as a generic one for the different types of both natural and synthetic progestagens. This is not appropriate because natural progesterone has properties very distinct from the synthetic progestins. Within the nervous system, the neuroprotective and promyelinating effects of progesterone are promising, not only for preventing but also for reversing age-dependent changes and dysfunctions. There is indeed strong evidence that the aging nervous system remains at least to some extent sensitive to these beneficial effects of progesterone. The actions of progesterone in peripheral target tissues including breast, blood vessels, and bones are less well understood, but there is evidence for the beneficial effects of progesterone. The variety of signaling mechanisms of progesterone offers exciting possibilities for the development of more selective, efficient, and safe progestagens. The recognition that progesterone is synthesized by neurons and glial cells requires a reevaluation of hormonal aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schumacher
- INSERM UMR 788, 80, rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kipp M, Karakaya S, Pawlak J, Araujo-Wright G, Arnold S, Beyer C. Estrogen and the development and protection of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons: concerted action of a multitude of signals, protective molecules, and growth factors. Front Neuroendocrinol 2006; 27:376-90. [PMID: 16949139 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2006.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2006] [Revised: 07/03/2006] [Accepted: 07/10/2006] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The nigrostriatal dopamine system comprises the dopaminergic neurons located in the ventral midbrain, their axonal connections to the forebrain, and their direct cellular target cells in the striatal complex, i.e. GABAergic neurons. The major function of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic unit is the coordination and fine tuning of motor functions at the extrapyramidal level. Numerous biologically active factors including different types of growth factors (neurotrophins, members of the TGFbeta family, IGFs) and peptide/steroid hormones have been identified in the past to be implicated in the regulation of developmental aspects of this neural system. Some of these developmentally active determinants have in addition been found to play a crucial role in the mediation of neuroprotection concerning dopaminergic neurons. Estrogen was identified as such a compound interfering with embryonic neuronal differentiation and cell survival. The physiological mechanisms underlying these effects are very complex and include interactions with other developmental signals (growth factors), inflammatory processes as well as apoptotic events, but also require the activation of nonneuronal cells such as astrocytes. It appears that estrogen is assuming control over or at least influences a multitude of developmental and protective cellular mechanisms rather than taking over the part of a singular protagonist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Kipp
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Arteaga-Silva M, Rodríguez-Dorantes M, Baig S, Morales-Montor J. Effects of castration and hormone replacement on male sexual behavior and pattern of expression in the brain of sex-steroid receptors in BALB/c AnN mice. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2006; 147:607-615. [PMID: 17292648 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2006.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2005] [Revised: 11/03/2006] [Accepted: 11/03/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the hormonal regulation of sexual behavior and about the pattern of expression in the brain of sex-steroid receptors in the BALB/c AnN strain of mice (Mus musculus). In this study, 8-week old male BALB/c AnN mice were castrated and the temporal course of decline of sexual behavior was studied, as well as the effects of daily treatment with either testosterone propionate (TP), estradiol benzoate (EB), or dihydrotestosterone propionate (PDHT). Castration resulted in rapid decline of sexual behavior, in both control or vehicle-treated mice. TP maintained full sexual behavior of castrated mice, while PDHT or EB did not have this effect. The expression of ER-alpha dropped nearly 50% after castration, and this pattern remained in TP or PDHT-treated mice, while EB increased the ER-alpha mRNA levels to almost the same values as in intact control mice. The same pattern was found when ER-beta mRNA levels were analyzed. The expression of the PR-A/B gene in the different brain regions in intact mice and after castration, or among the differently treated mice, showed significant differences between normal and castrated mice at all times in all brain regions studied, with the exception of the frontal cortex. Castration reduced the expression of AR by 10-fold, as compared to intact control mice, while TP or PDHT treatment returned its expression to the same levels as in intact control mice, in all brain areas studied. The changes are more prominent in POA-HIP than in HYP and CF. These results demonstrated a rapid decline of sexual behavior in this strain of mice after castration, and show that only TP was able to maintain male sexual behavior, with no correlation with the pattern of expression of sex hormone receptors in specific areas of the mouse brain.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Brain/drug effects
- Brain/metabolism
- Castration
- Dihydrotestosterone/analogs & derivatives
- Dihydrotestosterone/pharmacology
- Ejaculation/drug effects
- Estradiol/analogs & derivatives
- Estradiol/pharmacology
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Receptors, Androgen/genetics
- Receptors, Androgen/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Receptors, Steroid/genetics
- Receptors, Steroid/metabolism
- Sexual Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Testosterone Propionate/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Arteaga-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, AP 55535, México, D.F. 09340, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Rodríguez-Dorantes
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, AP 70228, México, D.F. 04510, Mexico
| | - Salman Baig
- Infectious Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, I Baylor Plaza, 535EA, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Jorge Morales-Montor
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, AP 55535, México, D.F. 09340, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Joseph V, Doan VD, Morency CE, Lajeunesse Y, Bairam A. Expression of sex-steroid receptors and steroidogenic enzymes in the carotid body of adult and newborn male rats. Brain Res 2006; 1073-1074:71-82. [PMID: 16443195 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2005.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2005] [Revised: 12/12/2005] [Accepted: 12/15/2005] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the localization and pattern of expression of estradiol and progesterone receptors as well as key enzymes for steroid synthesis (i.e. P450 side-chain-cleavage--P450scc, and P450 aromatase--P450Aro) in the carotid body (CB) and superior cervical ganglion (SCG) of adult, newborn and late fetal male rats, using immunohistochemistry, Western blot and real-time RT-PCR. Our results show a constitutive expression of the beta estradiol receptor (Erbeta) and the 80 kDa and 60 kDa progesterone receptors (PR-A and PR-C) isoforms in the CB, while in the SCG Eralpha, Erbeta, PR-A and PR-C are expressed. While P450Aro staining was negative, P450scc staining was strong both in the SCG and CB. In late fetal and newborn rats, Eralpha was not detected in the CB or SCG, but a slight staining appeared for P450 aromatase in the CB, and to a lesser extent in SCG. P450scc was strongly expressed in CB and SCG of late fetal and newborn rats. We conclude that the carotid body shows a constitutive expression of Erbeta and PR and may be able to synthesize steroids, including estradiol during late fetal life.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Age Factors
- Analysis of Variance
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Aromatase/metabolism
- Blotting, Western/methods
- Carotid Body/growth & development
- Carotid Body/metabolism
- Cholesterol Side-Chain Cleavage Enzyme/metabolism
- Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental/physiology
- Immunohistochemistry/methods
- Male
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Estradiol/genetics
- Receptors, Estradiol/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Receptors, Steroid/genetics
- Receptors, Steroid/metabolism
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Joseph
- Department of Pediatrics, Laval University, Centre de Recherche (D0-711), Hôpital St-François d'Assise, 10 rue de l'Espinay, Quebec (QC), Canada G1L 3L5.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Woolley SC, Sakata JT, Crews D. Tyrosine hydroxylase expression is affected by sexual vigor and social environment in male Cnemidophorus inornatus. J Comp Neurol 2004; 476:429-39. [PMID: 15282714 DOI: 10.1002/cne.20236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although the distribution of catecholamine-synthesizing cells has been described for a variety of taxa, less is known about the functional significance of particular populations in nonmammalian species, especially reptiles. To understand the role of these populations in the display of social behaviors in lizards, we studied the interactive effects of sexual vigor (sexually vigorous vs. sluggish) and social condition (housing in isolation vs. with females) on the number and somal areas of cells expressing tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), a rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine synthesis, in male whiptail lizards, Cnemidophorus inornatus. We found that, regardless of social condition, sexually vigorous males had more TH-immunoreactive (TH-ir) cells in the dorsal hypothalamus (DH) relative to sluggish males. Sexually vigorous males also had more TH-ir cells in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), but this difference was significant only among males housed with females. Sexually vigorous males that had been housed with females had smaller TH-ir cells in the preoptic area (POA) than vigorous males housed in isolation. On the other hand, no significant differences were found in the anterior hypothalamus. These results highlight the regional heterogeneity in the plasticity of TH expression and suggest that, just as in other species, the DH, SNpc, and POA might be involved in the expression of social behaviors and in behavioral plasticity following social experiences in lizards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Woolley
- Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) prevents numerous cells, including uterine, mammary and ovarian cells, from undergoing apoptosis. Interestingly, P4 prevents apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), which do not express the classic nuclear P4 receptor. This review presents data that support a non-genomic action of P4 in granulosa cells. These studies were conducted using both primary rat granulosa cells and rat spontaneously immortalized granulosa cells (SIGCs). Specifically, these studies reveal that (1) 3H-P4 specifically binds to SIGCs; (2) an antibody directed against the ligand binding domain of the nuclear P4 receptor (C-262) detects a 60kDa protein, which localizes to the plasma membrane and binds P4; and (3) treatment with C-262 blocks P4's ability to maintain granulosa cell viability. Additional studies demonstrate that a protein kinase G (PKG) activator, 8-br-cGMP, mimics and PKG antagonists, Rp-8-pcCPT-GMP and KT5823, attenuate P4's action. These studies support the concept that the 60kDa P4 binding protein functions as membrane receptor for P4 which activates a PKG-dependent mechanism to regulate granulosa cell survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J J Peluso
- Department of Physiology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|