1
|
Groti Antonič K, Zitzmann M. Novel perspectives of testosterone therapy in men with functional hypogonadism: traversing the gaps of knowledge. Aging Male 2024; 27:2296460. [PMID: 38149634 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2023.2296460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the past decade, there has been a significant augmentation in the corpus of evidence pertaining to functional hypogonadism. Despite this, prevailing clinical guidelines continue to advise against the universal screening for hypogonadism in middle-aged and elderly males. FINDINGS Numerous randomized controlled trials have scrutinized the effects of testosterone therapy in males afflicted with type 2 diabetes and/or obesity. However, these guidelines uniformly assert that lifestyle modifications and weight reduction should be the primary intervention strategies in overweight and obese males, relegating testosterone therapy to a secondary, selective option. It is extensively documented that testosterone therapy can yield substantial improvements in various metabolic parameters as well as ameliorate symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Moreover, recent studies have demonstrated the potential of testosterone therapy in reversing type 2 diabetes in males with low-normal testosterone levels who are at elevated risk for this condition, in comparison to the outcomes achievable through lifestyle modifications alone. CONCLUSION This focused review article aims to present a comprehensive update on the latest data concerning the innovative aspects of testosterone therapy in males with functional hypogonadism, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes and/or obesity. Additionally, it will delve into the cardiovascular safety of such interventions within this high-risk demographic, with a special emphasis on insights gleaned from the TRAVERSE trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Groti Antonič
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Michael Zitzmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen K, Wong TH, Tan YG, Tay KJ, Tan WC, Chan J, Ho H, Cheng C, Teoh JYC, Chiu PKF, Wang HJ, Saad MB, Kanesvaran R, Li YQ, Ng CT, Tuan JKL, Yuen JSP. Cardio-oncology in advanced prostate cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1386597. [PMID: 38947889 PMCID: PMC11211357 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1386597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Treatment intensification with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPi) have led to improved survival in advanced prostate cancer. However, ADT is linked to significant cardiovascular toxicity, and ARPi also negatively impacts cardiovascular health. Together with a higher prevalence of baseline cardiovascular risk factors reported among prostate cancer survivors at diagnosis, there is a pressing need to prioritise and optimise cardiovascular health in this population. Firstly, While no dedicated cardiovascular toxicity risk calculators are available, other tools such as SCORE2 can be used for baseline cardiovascular risk assessment. Next, selected patients on combination therapy may benefit from de-escalation of ADT to minimise its toxicities while maintaining cancer control. These patients can be characterised by an exceptional PSA response to hormonal treatment, favourable disease characteristics and competing comorbidities that warrant a less aggressive treatment regime. In addition, emerging molecular and genomic biomarkers hold the potential to identify patients who are suited for a de-escalated treatment approach either with ADT or with ARPi. One such biomarker is AR-V7 splice variant that predicts resistance to ARPi. Lastly, optimization of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors for patients through a coherent framework (ABCDE) and exercise therapy is equally important. This article aims to comprehensively review the cardiovascular impact of hormonal manipulation in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, propose overarching strategies to mitigate cardiovascular toxicity associated with hormonal treatment, and, most importantly, raise awareness about the detrimental cardiovascular effects inherent in our current management strategies involving hormonal agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Chen
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ting Hong Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Guang Tan
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kae Jack Tay
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Chong Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Johan Chan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Henry Ho
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Christopher Cheng
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy Yuen-Chun Teoh
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Peter Ka-Fung Chiu
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hung Jen Wang
- Department of Urology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University and College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Marniza Binti Saad
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ravindran Kanesvaran
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - You Quan Li
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choon Ta Ng
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - John Shyi Peng Yuen
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ornstrup MJ, Høst C, Rittig N, Gravholt CH. Acute effects of testosterone on whole body protein metabolism in hypogonadal and eugonadal conditions: a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 136:1460-1467. [PMID: 38634506 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00078.2024] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic testosterone (T) substitution and short-term T administration positively affect protein metabolism, however, data on acute effects in humans are sparse. This study aimed to investigate T's acute effects on whole body protein metabolism in hypogonadal and eugonadal conditions. We designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, including 12 healthy young males. Whole body protein metabolism was evaluated during 1) eugonadism, and after medically induced hypogonadism, with application of a gel on each trial day containing either 2) placebo, 3) T 50 mg, or 4) T 150 mg; under basal (5-h basal period) and insulin-stimulated conditions (3-h clamp). The main outcome measure was a change in net protein balance. The net protein loss was 62% larger in the placebo-treated hypogonadal state compared with the eugonadal state during the basal period (-5.5 ± 3.5 µmol/kg/h vs. -3.4 ± 1.2 µmol/kg/h, P = 0.038), but not during the clamp (P = 0.06). Also, hypogonadism resulted in a 25% increase in whole body urea flux (P = 0.006). However, T did not result in any significant changes in protein breakdown, synthesis, or net balance during either the basal period or clamp (all P > 0.05). Protein breakdown was reduced during clamp compared with the basal period regardless of gonadal status or T exposure (all P ≤ 0.001). In conclusion, the application of transdermal T did not counteract the negative effects of hypogonadism with no effects on protein metabolism within 5 h of administration. Insulin (during clamp) mitigated the effects of hypogonadism. This study is the first to investigate acute protein metabolic effects of T in hypogonadal men.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In a model of medically induced hypogonadism in male volunteers, we found increased whole body urea flux and net protein loss as an expected consequence of hypogonadism. Our study demonstrates the novel finding that the application of transdermal testosterone had no acute effects on whole body protein metabolism under eugonadal conditions, nor could it mitigate the hypogonadism-induced changes in protein metabolism. In contrast, insulin (during clamp) mitigated the effects of hypogonadism on protein metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Juul Ornstrup
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christian Høst
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nikolaj Rittig
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Asunción-Alvarez D, Palacios J, Ybañez-Julca RO, Rodriguez-Silva CN, Nwokocha C, Cifuentes F, Greensmith DJ. Calcium signaling in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells: sex differences and the influence of estrogens and androgens. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H950-H970. [PMID: 38334967 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00600.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Calcium signaling in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is essential for the regulation of vascular tone. However, the changes to intracellular Ca2+ concentrations are often influenced by sex differences. Furthermore, a large body of evidence shows that sex hormone imbalance leads to dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling and this is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, the effects of estrogens and androgens on vascular calcium-handling proteins are discussed, with emphasis on the associated genomic or nongenomic molecular mechanisms. The experimental models from which data were collected were also considered. The review highlights 1) in female ECs, transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) enhance Ca2+-dependent nitric oxide (NO) generation. In males, only transient receptor potential canonical 3 (TRPC3) plays a fundamental role in this effect. 2) Female VSMCs have lower cytosolic Ca2+ levels than males due to differences in the activity and expression of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 (Orai1), calcium voltage-gated channel subunit-α1C (CaV1.2), Na+-K+-2Cl- symporter (NKCC1), and the Na+/K+-ATPase. 3) When compared with androgens, the influence of estrogens on Ca2+ homeostasis, vascular tone, and incidence of vascular disease is better documented. 4) Many studies use supraphysiological concentrations of sex hormones, which may limit the physiological relevance of outcomes. 5) Sex-dependent differences in Ca2+ signaling mean both sexes ought to be included in experimental design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Asunción-Alvarez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Javier Palacios
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Roberto O Ybañez-Julca
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Cristhian N Rodriguez-Silva
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Chukwuemeka Nwokocha
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences Physiology Section, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Fredi Cifuentes
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental (EphyL), Instituto Antofagasta (IA), Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - David J Greensmith
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, The University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sex- and Gender-Related Aspects in Pulmonary Hypertension. Heart Fail Clin 2023; 19:11-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hfc.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
6
|
Impact of Hormonal-Anabolic Deficiencies in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Heart Fail Clin 2023; 19:115-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hfc.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
7
|
Oh ES, Steele CN, You Z, Nowak KL, Jovanovich AJ. Sex hormones and the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in male and female patients with chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15490. [PMID: 36394074 PMCID: PMC9669609 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) commonly experience sex hormone disturbances, which may be associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. This review aimed to systematically evaluate current findings on the association of sex hormone levels with the risk of CVD events and mortality (CVD and all-cause) in the CKD population. Articles were systematically searched in CINAHL, Cochrane, and PubMed. A total of 1739 articles were independently screened by two reviewers and 17 prospective cohort studies were included. The clinical conditions of the patients were those with non-dialysis CKD [mean/median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 15-51 ml/min/1.73 m2 ] and those on chronic dialysis (mean/median vintage between 6-125 months). The sample size ranged from 111 to 2419 and the mean/median age of subjects ranged from 52 to 72 years. The sex hormones studied were testosterone, estradiol, prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and relaxin. A random-effects model was used to generate a pooled hazard ratio (HR) to evaluate the association of total testosterone levels with the risk of CVD and all-cause mortality. Most studies examined total testosterone levels (11 out of 17 studies) and studied only male patients (12 out of 17 studies). A lower total testosterone level was associated with a higher risk of CVD mortality [HR 4.37 (95% CI 1.40-13.65)] and all-cause mortality [1.96 (1.35-2.83)] in males with CKD. To conclude, there is a strong need for additional studies examining the association of sex hormones with cardiovascular and mortality risk in female patients with CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ester S. Oh
- Division of Renal Diseases and HypertensionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Cortney N. Steele
- Division of Renal Diseases and HypertensionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Zhiying You
- Division of Renal Diseases and HypertensionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Kristen L. Nowak
- Division of Renal Diseases and HypertensionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Anna J. Jovanovich
- Division of Renal Diseases and HypertensionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
- VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare SystemAuroraColoradoUSA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Could Lower Testosterone in Older Men Explain Higher COVID-19 Morbidity and Mortalities? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020935. [PMID: 35055119 PMCID: PMC8781054 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The health scourge imposed on humanity by the COVID-19 pandemic seems not to recede. This fact warrants refined and novel ideas analyzing different aspects of the illness. One such aspect is related to the observation that most COVID-19 casualties were older males, a tendency also noticed in the epidemics of SARS-CoV in 2003 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome in 2012. This gender-related difference in the COVID-19 death toll might be directly involved with testosterone (TEST) and its plasmatic concentration in men. TEST has been demonstrated to provide men with anti-inflammatory and immunological advantages. As the plasmatic concentration of this androgen decreases with age, the health benefit it confers also diminishes. Low plasmatic levels of TEST can be determinant in the infection’s outcome and might be related to a dysfunctional cell Ca2+ homeostasis. Not only does TEST modulate the activity of diverse proteins that regulate cellular calcium concentrations, but these proteins have also been proven to be necessary for the replication of many viruses. Therefore, we discuss herein how TEST regulates different Ca2+-handling proteins in healthy tissues and propose how low TEST concentrations might facilitate the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through the lack of modulation of the mechanisms that regulate intracellular Ca2+ concentrations.
Collapse
|
9
|
The Effect of Testosterone on Cardiovascular Disease and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Men: A Review of Clinical and Preclinical Data. CJC Open 2021; 3:1238-1248. [PMID: 34888506 PMCID: PMC8636244 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. The effects of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, on cardiovascular risk have been of special interest due to the increased risk of CVD in men. Although it is well established that testosterone levels decline and cardiovascular mortality increases with age, the association between testosterone and CVD remains unclear. Observational and randomized studies on the effects of endogenous and exogenous testosterone have produced conflicting data, and meta-analyses have been inconclusive, suggesting significant study heterogeneity. Despite a lack of adequately powered randomized controlled trials, large observational studies in the early 2010s led to advisories on the use of testosterone replacement therapy. Similar advisories have been mandated for certain types of androgen deprivation therapy. Additional research suggests that testosterone shortens the heart-rate-corrected QT interval, improves glycemic control, induces vasodilation, is prothrombotic, and has anti-obesity effects, whereas associations with atherosclerosis and inflammation are less clear. Despite inconclusive evidence on cardiovascular risk and inconsistencies among clinical practice guidelines, millions of men continue to use testosterone replacement and androgen deprivation therapy. In addition to summarizing clinical and preclinical data, this review provides insight on potential mechanisms of action of testosterone on CVD, applications of this knowledge to clinical settings, and avenues for future research.
Collapse
|
10
|
Sun Y, Sangam S, Guo Q, Wang J, Tang H, Black SM, Desai AA. Sex Differences, Estrogen Metabolism and Signaling in the Development of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:719058. [PMID: 34568460 PMCID: PMC8460911 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.719058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex and devastating disease with a poor long-term prognosis. While women are at increased risk for developing PAH, they exhibit superior right heart function and higher survival rates than men. Susceptibility to disease risk in PAH has been attributed, in part, to estrogen signaling. In contrast to potential pathological influences of estrogen in patients, studies of animal models reveal estrogen demonstrates protective effects in PAH. Consistent with this latter observation, an ovariectomy in female rats appears to aggravate the condition. This discrepancy between observations from patients and animal models is often called the "estrogen paradox." Further, the tissue-specific interactions between estrogen, its metabolites and receptors in PAH and right heart function remain complex; nonetheless, these relationships are essential to characterize to better understand PAH pathophysiology and to potentially develop novel therapeutic and curative targets. In this review, we explore estrogen-mediated mechanisms that may further explain this paradox by summarizing published literature related to: (1) the synthesis and catabolism of estrogen; (2) activity and functions of the various estrogen receptors; (3) the multiple modalities of estrogen signaling in cells; and (4) the role of estrogen and its diverse metabolites on the susceptibility to, and progression of, PAH as well as their impact on right heart function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shreya Sangam
- Department of Medicine, Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Stephen M. Black
- Department of Cellular Biology and Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Center for Translational Science and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, FL, United States
| | - Ankit A. Desai
- Department of Medicine, Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ambhore NS, Kalidhindi RSR, Sathish V. Sex-Steroid Signaling in Lung Diseases and Inflammation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1303:243-273. [PMID: 33788197 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-63046-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sex/gender difference exists in the physiology of multiple organs. Recent epidemiological reports suggest the influence of sex-steroids in modulating a wide variety of disease conditions. Sex-based discrepancies have been reported in pulmonary physiology and various chronic inflammatory responses associated with lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and rare lung diseases. Notably, emerging clinical evidence suggests that several respiratory diseases affect women to a greater degree, with increased severity and prevalence than men. Although sex-specific differences in various lung diseases are evident, such differences are inherent to sex-steroids, which are major biological variables in men and women who play a central role to control these differences. The focus of this chapter is to comprehend the sex-steroid biology in inflammatory lung diseases and to understand the mechanistic role of sex-steroids signaling in regulating these diseases. Exploring the roles of sex-steroid signaling in the regulation of lung diseases and inflammation is crucial for the development of novel and effective therapy. Overall, we will illustrate the importance of differential sex-steroid signaling in lung diseases and their possible clinical implications for the development of complementary and alternative medicine to treat lung diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilesh Sudhakar Ambhore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | | | - Venkatachalem Sathish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Anjum H, Surani S. Pulmonary Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57030259. [PMID: 33799910 PMCID: PMC8000005 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57030259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disease, which targets the pulmonary vasculature affecting the heart and the lungs, and is characterized by a vast array of signs and symptoms. These manifestations of PH in pregnancy are highly variable and non-specific hence, it is prudent to have a very keen and high index of suspicion while evaluating these patients. This rare disease can be extremely debilitating and can be associated with a poor overall prognosis. Pregnancy in women with PH puts them at an elevated risk because the physiological changes associated with pregnancy are not well endured leading to even higher morbidity and mortality in these patients. Although there are various modalities for evaluation and workup of PH, right heart catheterization (RHC) remains the gold standard. A mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) of more than 20 mm of Hg is considered diagnostic. It is indeed heartening to see that in the past decade many novel therapeutic modalities have emerged and along with a better understanding of the disease process have proved to be promising in terms of reducing the adverse outcomes and preventing death in this population of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Humayun Anjum
- Internal Medicine, University of North Texas, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Salim Surani
- Internal Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hye T, Dwivedi P, Li W, Lahm T, Nozik-Grayck E, Stenmark KR, Ahsan F. Newer insights into the pathobiological and pharmacological basis of the sex disparity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 320:L1025-L1037. [PMID: 33719549 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00559.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) affects more women than men, although affected females tend to survive longer than affected males. This sex disparity in PAH is postulated to stem from the diverse roles of sex hormones in disease etiology. In animal models, estrogens appear to be implicated not only in pathologic remodeling of pulmonary arteries, but also in protection against right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy. In contrast, the male sex hormone testosterone is associated with reduced survival in male animals, where it is associated with increased RV mass, volume, and fibrosis. However, it also has a vasodilatory effect on pulmonary arteries. Furthermore, patients of both sexes show varying degrees of response to current therapies for PAH. As such, there are many gaps and contradictions regarding PAH development, progression, and therapeutic interventions in male versus female patients. Many of these questions remain unanswered, which may be due in part to lack of effective experimental models that can consistently reproduce PAH pulmonary microenvironments in their sex-specific forms. This review article summarizes the roles of estrogens and related sex hormones, immunological and genetical differences, and the benefits and limitations of existing experimental tools to fill in gaps in our understanding of the sex-based variation in PAH development and progression. Finally, we highlight the potential of a new tissue chip-based model mimicking PAH-afflicted male and female pulmonary arteries to study the sex-based differences in PAH and to develop personalized therapies based on patient sex and responsiveness to existing and new drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanvirul Hye
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, Texas
| | - Pankaj Dwivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Tim Lahm
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Eva Nozik-Grayck
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kurt R Stenmark
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Fakhrul Ahsan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, Texas.,Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, California
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lorigo M, Mariana M, Lemos MC, Cairrao E. Vascular mechanisms of testosterone: The non-genomic point of view. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 196:105496. [PMID: 31655180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone (T) is the predominant endogenous androgen in the bloodstream. At the vascular level, T presents genomic and non-genomic effects, and both effects may overlap. The genomic actions assume that androgens can freely cross the plasma membrane of target cells and bind to nuclear androgen receptors, inducing gene transcription and protein synthesis. The non-genomic effects have a more rapid onset and may be related to the interaction with protein/receptor/ion channels of the plasma membrane. The key T effect at the vascular level is vasorelaxation, which is primarily due to its rapid effect. Thus, the main purpose of this review is to discuss the T non-genomic effects at the vascular level and the molecular pathways involved in its vasodilator effect observed in in vivo and in vitro studies. In this sense, the nuclear receptor activation, the influence of vascular endothelium and the activation or inhibition of ion channels (potassium and calcium channels, respectively) will be reviewed regarding all the data that corroborated or not. Moreover, this review also provides a brief update on the association of T with the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, namely metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, atherosclerosis, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension. In summary, in this paper we consider the non-genomic vascular mode of action of androgen in physiological conditions and the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Lorigo
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Melissa Mariana
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Manuel C Lemos
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Elisa Cairrao
- CICS-UBI - Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mancini A, Fuvuzzi AMR, Bruno C, Nicolazzi MA, Vergani E, Ciferri N, Silvestrini A, Meucci E, Nicolotti N, D'Assante R, Cittadini A. Anabolic Hormone Deficiencies in Heart Failure with Reduced or Preserved Ejection Fraction and Correlation with Plasma Total Antioxidant Capacity. Int J Endocrinol 2020; 2020:5798146. [PMID: 32411227 PMCID: PMC7199626 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5798146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While anabolic hormone deficit is a common finding in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), few data are available in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). METHODS Blood samples were collected for metabolic (total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, creatinine, and glucose) and hormonal (IGF-1, DHEA-S, TSH, fT3, fT4, and T) determination, comparing 30 patients with HFpEF and 20 patients with HFrEF. Total antioxidant capacity was evaluated by using the spectrophotometric method using the latency time in the appearance of the radical species of a chromogen (LAG, sec) as a parameter proportional to antioxidant content of the sample. Echocardiographic parameters were also assessed in the two groups. RESULTS A high prevalence of testosterone (32% in HFrEF and 72% in HFpEF, p < 0.05) and DHEA-S deficiencies was observed in HFpEF patients. Echocardiographic parameters did not correlate with hormone values. A significant direct correlation between T (r 2 = 0.25, p < 0.05) and DHEA-S (r 2 = 0.19, p < 0.05) with LAG was observed only in HFpEF. CONCLUSION Anabolic hormone deficiency is clearly shown in HFpEF, as already known in HFrEF. Although longitudinal studies are required to confirm the prognostic value of this observation, our data suggest different mechanisms in modulating antioxidants in the two conditions, with possible therapeutic implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Mancini
- Operative Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Rita Fuvuzzi
- Operative Unit of Internal Medicine and Vascular Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Bruno
- Operative Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Anna Nicolazzi
- Operative Unit of Internal Medicine and Vascular Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Vergani
- Operative Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Nunzia Ciferri
- Operative Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Silvestrini
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Meucci
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Nicolotti
- Medical Management, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta D'Assante
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Cittadini
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang YX, Wang L, Lu WZ, Yuan P, Wu WH, Zhou YP, Zhao QH, Zhang SJ, Li Y, Wu T, Jiang X, Jing ZC. Association Between High FSH, Low Progesterone, and Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Women of Reproductive Age. Am J Hypertens 2020; 33:99-105. [PMID: 31504137 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpz143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While sex differences characterize susceptibility and severity of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH), our understanding of the relationship between levels of gonadotropins and sex hormones in fertile women and the disease is limited. We aimed to investigate whether gonadotropin and sex hormone levels in women of reproductive age were associated with risk and mortality of IPAH. METHODS We did a matched case-control study. Cases were reproductive female patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension admitted in Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital (Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China) during 2008-2014. Healthy controls were matched on age and body mass index. We also did a prospective cohort study to assess the effects of hormone levels on mortality in IPAH fertile female patients. RESULTS One hundred sixty-four cases and 133 controls were included. After adjustment for age and body mass index, the odds ratios of having IPAH for follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, and progesterone as expressed on natural log scale were 1.51 (95% confidence interval: 1.06, 2.16), 0.42 (0.31-0.57), and 0.52 (0.43-0.63), respectively. In the cohort study with a median follow-up of 77 months, the hazard ratios for dying after adjustment for baseline characteristics and treatments among IPAH patients were 2.01 (95% confidence interval: 1.22-3.30) and 0.78 (95% confidence interval: 0.62-0.98) for follicle-stimulating hormone and progesterone in natural log scale, respectively. CONCLUSIONS In reproductive women with IPAH, high follicle-stimulating hormone and low progesterone tended to be associated with high risk of IPAH and mortality among patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Wang
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Zhao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Yuan
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hui Wu
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Ping Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qin-Hua Zhao
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Jin Zhang
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Jing
- Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine and FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hester J, Ventetuolo C, Lahm T. Sex, Gender, and Sex Hormones in Pulmonary Hypertension and Right Ventricular Failure. Compr Physiol 2019; 10:125-170. [PMID: 31853950 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) encompasses a syndrome of diseases that are characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular remodeling and that frequently lead to right ventricular (RV) failure and death. Several types of PH exhibit sexually dimorphic features in disease penetrance, presentation, and progression. Most sexually dimorphic features in PH have been described in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a devastating and progressive pulmonary vasculopathy with a 3-year survival rate <60%. While patient registries show that women are more susceptible to development of PAH, female PAH patients display better RV function and increased survival compared to their male counterparts, a phenomenon referred to as the "estrogen paradox" or "estrogen puzzle" of PAH. Recent advances in the field have demonstrated that multiple sex hormones, receptors, and metabolites play a role in the estrogen puzzle and that the effects of hormone signaling may be time and compartment specific. While the underlying physiological mechanisms are complex, unraveling the estrogen puzzle may reveal novel therapeutic strategies to treat and reverse the effects of PAH/PH. In this article, we (i) review PH classification and pathophysiology; (ii) discuss sex/gender differences observed in patients and animal models; (iii) review sex hormone synthesis and metabolism; (iv) review in detail the scientific literature of sex hormone signaling in PAH/PH, particularly estrogen-, testosterone-, progesterone-, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-mediated effects in the pulmonary vasculature and RV; (v) discuss hormone-independent variables contributing to sexually dimorphic disease presentation; and (vi) identify knowledge gaps and pathways forward. © 2020 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 10:125-170, 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Hester
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, Occupational and Sleep Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Corey Ventetuolo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Tim Lahm
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, Occupational and Sleep Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lorigo M, Mariana M, Oliveira N, Lemos MC, Cairrao E. Vascular Pathways of Testosterone: Clinical Implications. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2019; 13:55-72. [DOI: 10.1007/s12265-019-09939-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
19
|
Perusquía M, Contreras D, Herrera N. Hypotestosteronemia is an important factor for the development of hypertension: elevated blood pressure in orchidectomized conscious rats is reversed by different androgens. Endocrine 2019; 65:416-425. [PMID: 31203561 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-01978-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypotestosteronemia is an aging-associated disease. Little is known about experimental evidence linking androgen deficiency to hypertension. Various androgens are acute vasodilators, both in vitro and in vivo. We aimed to systematically investigate blood pressure (BP) in male normotensive intact or orchidectomized (ORX) Wistar and Wistar-Kyoto rats. Furthermore, we studied the acute antihypertensive responses of testosterone (TES), its precursor (DHEA), or its 5β-reduced metabolite (5β-DHT) in conscious, unrestrained, hypertensive Wistar rats caused by orchidectomy to determine their potency and efficacy. Similarly, the mechanism of their action mediated by nitric oxide (NO) was studied in vivo. METHODS BP of ORX rats was evaluated weekly for 18 weeks by tail cuff plethysmography. Subsequently, BP of ORX Wistar rats was measured by chronic indwelling vascular catheters, arterial, and venous catheters were implanted under anesthesia for BP recording and androgen administration, respectively. Then, a dose-response curve of each androgen was performed. Likewise, the dose-response curve of 5β-DHT, the most potent androgen, was repeated in the presence of a nonselective NO synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) or an inhibitor of endothelial NO synthesis (Endothelin-1). RESULTS ORX rats progressively increased systolic/diastolic BP (167 ± 2.8/141 ± 3.3 mmHg) over 18 weeks. No difference was found between strains. The BP was reduced in a dose-dependent manner caused by i.v. bolus injection of each androgen, with a rank order of potency of: 5β-DHT = DHEA>>TES. Dose-dependent antihypertension induced by 5β-DHT in ORX rats was not abolished in the presence of L-NAME or Endothelin-1. CONCLUSIONS These in vivo experimental findings reveal that hypotestosteronemia is a determining factor for the development of hypertension which is powerfully reduced by androgen administration, and 5β-DHT induces a potent and effective antihypertensive response by a NO-independent mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Perusquía
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Daniela Contreras
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nieves Herrera
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Docherty CK, Harvey KY, Mair KM, Griffin S, Denver N, MacLean MR. The Role of Sex in the Pathophysiology of Pulmonary Hypertension. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1065:511-528. [PMID: 30051404 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-77932-4_31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease characterised by increased pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary artery remodelling as result of increased vascular tone and vascular cell proliferation, respectively. Eventually, this leads to right heart failure. Heritable PAH is caused by a mutation in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor-II (BMPR-II). Female susceptibility to PAH has been known for some time, and most recent figures show a female-to-male ratio of 4:1. Variations in the female sex hormone estrogen and estrogen metabolism modify FPAH risk, and penetrance of the disease in BMPR-II mutation carriers is increased in females. Several lines of evidence point towards estrogen being pathogenic in the pulmonary circulation, and thus increasing the risk of females developing PAH. Recent studies have also suggested that estrogen metabolism may be crucial in the development and progression of PAH with studies indicating that downstream metabolites such as 16α-hydroxyestrone are upregulated in several forms of experimental pulmonary hypertension (PH) and can cause pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation and subsequent vascular remodelling. Conversely, other estrogen metabolites such as 2-methoxyestradiol have been shown to be protective in the context of PAH. Estrogen may also upregulate the signalling pathways of other key mediators of PAH such as serotonin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig K Docherty
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Katie Yates Harvey
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kirsty M Mair
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sinead Griffin
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nina Denver
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Margaret R MacLean
- Research Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kalidhindi RSR, Katragadda R, Beauchamp KL, Pabelick CM, Prakash YS, Sathish V. Androgen Receptor-Mediated Regulation of Intracellular Calcium in Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cells. Cell Physiol Biochem 2019; 53:215-228. [PMID: 31299143 PMCID: PMC6896987 DOI: 10.33594/000000131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS With the prevalence of asthma being greater in women, detrimental effects of female sex steroids have been explored, but potential protective effects of androgens are not established. Airway smooth muscle (ASM) is a key cell type in contractility and remodelling of asthma. There are no data on expression and functionality of androgen receptor (AR) in human ASM cells. METHODS We used primary human ASM cells from non-asthmatics vs. asthmatics to determine AR expression at baseline and with inflammation measured using Western blotting/qRT-PCR, and the role of AR in regulating intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) measured using Fluo-3 loaded real time [Ca2+]i imaging. RESULTS We found that compared to females, baseline AR is greater in male ASM and increases with inflammation/asthma. Androgens, via AR, blunted TNFα or IL-13-induced enhancement of ASM [Ca2+]i in both males and females, with retained efficacy in asthmatics. AR effects involve reduced Ca2+ influx via L-type channels and store-operated Ca2+ entry, the latter by downregulating STIM1 and Orai1 and increasing TMEM66. CONCLUSION Our data show AR expression is increased in female ASM with asthma, but has retained functionality that could be used to reduce [Ca2+]i towards alleviating airway hyperresponsiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rathnavali Katragadda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Kerri L Beauchamp
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Christina M Pabelick
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Y S Prakash
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Venkatachalem Sathish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Prevalence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is higher in women, and the mechanism remains unclear. Prognosis is overall better for female compared with male patients with PAH. Pregnancy is associated with significant risk, mortality, and morbidity in patients with PAH; consensus guidelines recommend against pregnancy and counsel about early termination in these patients. Recent advances in treatment showed improvement in prognosis in small case reports of pregnant patients with PAH, particularly with the early use of parental prostacyclin. Education remains fundamental for women with PAH of childbearing age for pregnancy prevention as well as discussion about birth control methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Franco
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 473 W 12th Avenue, DHLRI Suite 200, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA.
| | - John J Ryan
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Vallerie V McLaughlin
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone, 5α- and 5β-dihydrotestosterone (-DHT) induce an acute in vitro vasorelaxation and in vivo vasodepressor, hypotensive and antihypertensive responses. Our aim was to study whether androgen-induced blood pressure (BP) reduction is involved with a blockade of Ca2+ influx through L-type voltage-operated calcium channels (L-VOCCs) and/or the signaling pathways of α1-adrenoceptors to induce vasoconstriction, which are one of the major mechanisms of BP maintenance. MATERIALS AND METHODS The relaxing potency and efficacy of each androgen in large conduit (thoracic aorta) and resistance (mesenteric) arteries from male hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive (WKY) rats were established. Blood vessels were isometrically recorded and precontracted with KCl or phenylephrine (Phe). RESULTS Androgens induced concentration-dependent vasorelaxation in precontracted arteries from SHR and WKY rats. 5β-DHT was always the most potent vasorelaxant in arteries from SHR. The KCl-induced contraction resulted significantly more sensitive to androgen-induced vasorelaxation than the Phe-induced contraction. On Phe-induced contraction, 5β-DHT was more potent in the mesenteric artery than in the thoracic aorta. CONCLUSIONS The vasorelaxation induced by androgens is mainly mediated by blocking L-VOCCs and in lesser extent by the blockade of multiple signaling pathways operative during α-adrenoceptor-induced vasoconstriction. 5β-DHT regulates vascular resistance and BP by mainly acting in the mesenteric arterial bed, which may explain its outstanding antihypertensive response previously reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Isidoro
- a Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
- b Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| | - Mercedes Ferrer
- a Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
| | - Mercedes Perusquía
- b Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yoshihisa A, Suzuki S, Sato Y, Kanno Y, Abe S, Miyata M, Sato T, Oikawa M, Kobayashi A, Yamaki T, Kunii H, Nakazato K, Ishida T, Takeishi Y. Relation of Testosterone Levels to Mortality in Men With Heart Failure. Am J Cardiol 2018; 121:1321-1327. [PMID: 29580633 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2018.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the impact of testosterone on the prognosis of heart failure (HF), as well as the underlying cardiac function, cardiac damage, and exercise capacity. We analyzed consecutive 618 men with HF (age 65.9 years). These patients were divided into quartiles based on their serum levels of total testosterone (TT): first (TT > 631 ng/dl, n = 154), second (462 < TT ≤ 631 ng/dl, n = 155), third (300 < TT ≤ 462 ng/dl, n = 156), and fourth (TT ≤ 300 ng/dl, n = 153) quartiles. In the Kaplan-Meier analysis (mean 1,281 days), all-cause mortality progressively increased throughout from the first to the fourth groups. In the multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis, TT was found to be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 0.929, p = 0.042). In addition, we compared the parameters of echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise testing, as well as levels of B-type natriuretic peptide and cardiac troponin I, among the 4 groups. Left ventricular ejection fraction and B-type natriuretic peptide did not differ among the groups. In contrast, the fourth quartile, compared with the first, second, and third groups, had higher levels of troponin I and lower peak VO2 (p <0.05, respectively). Decreased serum testosterone is associated with myocardial damage, lower exercise capacity, and higher mortality in men with HF.
Collapse
|
25
|
Wu WH, Yuan P, Zhang SJ, Jiang X, Wu C, Li Y, Liu SF, Liu QQ, Li JH, Pudasaini B, Hu QH, Dupuis J, Jing ZC. Impact of Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Hormones on Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Men. Hypertension 2018; 72:151-158. [PMID: 29712743 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.118.10963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The association of sex hormone (estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone) with cardiopulmonary disease has already attracted great attention, especially in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, the impact of sex hormones and their pituitary stimulators (follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone) on PAH in men remains unclear. We conducted a prospective cohort study recruiting 95 patients with idiopathic PAH from 2008 to 2014 and following up for a median of 65 months for death. Compared with control, abnormal plasma levels of sex hormones were more common in patients with PAH. Higher estradiol and estradiol/testosterone levels were associated with risk of PAH diagnosis (odds ratio per ln estradiol, 3.55; P<0.001; odds ratio per ln estradiol/testosterone, 4.30; P<0.001), whereas higher testosterone and progesterone were associated with a reduced risk (odds ratio per ln testosterone, 0.48; P=0.003; odds ratio per ln progesterone, 0.09; P<0.001). Fifty patients died during follow-up. Men with higher estradiol had increased mortality (hazard ratio per ln estradiol, 2.02; P=0.007), even after adjustment for baseline characteristics and PAH treatment. According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, patients with PAH with higher estradiol level (≥145.55 pmol/L) had worse 5-year survival rate compared with those with lower estradiol (38.6% versus 68.2%; log-rank test P=0.001). Therefore, our data show higher estradiol, estradiol/testosterone ratio, lower testosterone, and progesterone were associated with increased risk of PAH. Meanwhile, higher estradiol was independently associated with higher mortality in men with PAH. Further studies are needed to explain the origin of these hormonal derangements and their potential pathophysiological implications in PAH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Hui Wu
- From the Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China (W.-H.W., P.Y., S.-J.Z., Y.L., B.P.)
| | - Ping Yuan
- From the Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China (W.-H.W., P.Y., S.-J.Z., Y.L., B.P.)
| | - Si-Jin Zhang
- From the Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China (W.-H.W., P.Y., S.-J.Z., Y.L., B.P.)
| | - Xin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, FuWai Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing (X.J., S.-F.L., Q.-Q.L., J.-H.L., Z.-C.J.)
| | - Cheng Wu
- Department of Health Statistics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China (C.W.)
| | - Yuan Li
- From the Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China (W.-H.W., P.Y., S.-J.Z., Y.L., B.P.)
| | - Shao-Fei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, FuWai Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing (X.J., S.-F.L., Q.-Q.L., J.-H.L., Z.-C.J.)
| | - Qian-Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, FuWai Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing (X.J., S.-F.L., Q.-Q.L., J.-H.L., Z.-C.J.)
| | - Jing-Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, FuWai Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing (X.J., S.-F.L., Q.-Q.L., J.-H.L., Z.-C.J.)
| | - Bigyan Pudasaini
- From the Department of Cardio-Pulmonary Circulation, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China (W.-H.W., P.Y., S.-J.Z., Y.L., B.P.)
| | - Qing-Hua Hu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (Q.-H.H.)
| | - Jocelyn Dupuis
- Montreal Heart Institute Research Center, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada (J.D.)
| | - Zhi-Cheng Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, FuWai Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Vascular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing (X.J., S.-F.L., Q.-Q.L., J.-H.L., Z.-C.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Marra AM, Benjamin N, Eichstaedt C, Salzano A, Arcopinto M, Gargani L, D Alto M, Argiento P, Falsetti L, Di Giosia P, Isidori AM, Ferrara F, Bossone E, Cittadini A, Grünig E. Gender-related differences in pulmonary arterial hypertension targeted drugs administration. Pharmacol Res 2016; 114:103-109. [PMID: 27771466 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the last 15 years, a real "paradigm-shift" occurred, due to the development of PAH-targeted drugs, leading to crucial improvements in symptoms, exercise capacity, hemodynamics and outcome of PAH patients. In order to describe differences regarding epidemiology and therapy in PAH according to gender, we performed a review of the available literature in "PubMed" and "Web of Science" databases. In order to find relevant articles, we combined each of the following the keywords "pulmonary arterial hypertension", "gender", "sex", "men", "woman", "male", "female", "phosphodiesterase inhibitors", "endothelin receptor antagonists", "prostanoids". While there is a substantial agreement among epidemiological studies in reporting an increased prevalence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) among women, male PAH patients are affected by a higher impairment of the right ventricular function and consequently experience poorer outcomes. With regards to PAH-targeted drug administration, endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs) and prostacyclin analogues (PC) show better treatment results in female PAH patients, while phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PD5-I) seem to exert a more beneficial effect on male patients. However, to date no clear consensus could be formed by the available literature, which is constituted mainly by retrospective studies. Females with PAH are more prone to develop PAH, while males experience poorer outcomes. Females PAH might benefit more from ERAs and PC, while males seem to have more beneficial effects from PD5-I administration. However, more research is warranted in order to assess the most effective treatment for PAH patients according to gender.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicola Benjamin
- Centre for Pulmonary Hypertension Thoraxclinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Eichstaedt
- Centre for Pulmonary Hypertension Thoraxclinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Salzano
- Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, "Federico II" Medicine School, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Arcopinto
- Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, "Federico II" Medicine School, Naples, Italy
| | - Luna Gargani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michele D Alto
- Department of Cardiology, Second University of Naples - AORN dei Colli - Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Argiento
- Department of Cardiology, Second University of Naples - AORN dei Colli - Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Falsetti
- Internal and Sub-intensive Medicine Department, A.O.U. "Ospedali Riuniti", Ancona, Italy
| | - Paolo Di Giosia
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Italy
| | - Antonio Cittadini
- Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, "Federico II" Medicine School, Naples, Italy
| | - Ekkehard Grünig
- Centre for Pulmonary Hypertension Thoraxclinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Berendsen RR, Lindeman RC, Boom M, Aarts LPHJ, van Dorp ELA, Teppema LJ. Erythropoietin does not have effects on the ventilatory and pulmonary vascular response to acute hypoxia in men and women. Exp Physiol 2016; 101:1230-1240. [DOI: 10.1113/ep085675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Remco R. Berendsen
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology; Leiden The Netherlands
| | | | - Merel Boom
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology; Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Leon P. H. J. Aarts
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology; Leiden The Netherlands
| | | | - Luc J. Teppema
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology; Leiden The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gosai JN, Charalampidis P, Nikolaidou T, Parviz Y, Morris PD, Channer KS, Jones TH, Grech ED. Revascularization with percutaneous coronary intervention does not affect androgen status in males with chronic stable angina pectoris. Andrology 2016; 4:486-91. [PMID: 27027684 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There is a clear association between low serum testosterone and coronary artery disease (CAD) in men. Hypotestosteronaemia is associated with accelerated atherosclerosis and a quarter of men with CAD are biochemically hypogonadal. Amongst those with CAD, hypotestosteronaemia is associated with increased mortality. Testosterone vasodilates coronary arteries, and exogenous testosterone reduces ischaemia. Whether hypotestosteronaemia is a cause or a consequence of CAD remains unanswered. The aim of this prospective observational study was to investigate whether coronary revascularization affected androgen status in men with stable angina pectoris. Twenty five men (mean age 62.7, SD 9.18) with angiographically significant CAD and symptomatic angina underwent full coronary revascularization by percutaneous coronary intervention. Androgen status and symptoms of angina, stress, depression and sexual function were assessed before, and at one and 6 months after the coronary revascularization. All patients underwent complete revascularization which was associated with a significant reduction in angina symptoms and ischaemia. No significant difference was seen in total testosterone (11.33 nmol/L baseline; 12.56, 1 month post; 13.04 at 6 months; p = 0.08). A significant and sustained rise in sex hormone-binding globulin was seen (33.99 nm/L baseline; 36.11 nm/L 1 month post PCI; 37.94 nm/L at 6 months; p = 0.03) Overall, there was no significant alteration in any other marker of androgen status including free testosterone or bioavailable testosterone. There was no change in symptoms of anxiety, depression or sexual function. Coronary revascularization has no sustained effect on androgen status. This supports the hypothesis that hypotestosteronaemia is not a consequence of angina pectoris or myocardial ischaemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J N Gosai
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Cardiovascular Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - P Charalampidis
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - T Nikolaidou
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Y Parviz
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - P D Morris
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Cardiovascular Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - T H Jones
- Robert Hague Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Barnsley, UK.,Department of Human Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - E D Grech
- South Yorkshire Cardiothoracic Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Francomano D, Fattorini G, Gianfrilli D, Paoli D, Sgrò P, Radicioni A, Romanelli F, Di Luigi L, Gandini L, Lenzi A, Aversa A. Acute endothelial response to testosterone gel administration in men with severe hypogonadism and its relationship to androgen receptor polymorphism: a pilot study. J Endocrinol Invest 2016; 39:265-71. [PMID: 26162521 PMCID: PMC4761016 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-015-0325-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Testosterone (T) exerts different effects on the cardiovascular system. Despite this knowledge, the acute vascular effect of androgen remains still poorly understood. METHODS We investigated the acute effects of T on vascular function in ten men (18-40 years age) with hypogonadism and severe hypotestosteronemia [serum total testosterone (TT) = 0.6 ± 0.3 ng/mL]. In a 4-day double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study, we administered 80 mg daily dose of transdermal-T gel (TG) and evaluated endothelial variations with Endopat2000 (reactive hyperemia index, RHI and the augmentation index, AI); also, CAG repeat polymorphism in exon 1 of the androgen receptor gene was investigated. RESULTS After TG administration, RHI significantly improved at 4 h (p < 0.05), while AI improvement was recorded at 4 and 96 h, also when adjusted for heart rate (AI@75; p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Direct relationships between ΔT, ΔDHT and ΔRHI variations (r = 0.37, p < 0.01; r = 0.17, p < 0.05, respectively) as well as between "CAG repeats" length and ΔLnRHI at 96 h (p < 0.03, r (2) = 0.47) were found. An inverse relationship between ΔT and ΔAI (p < 0.01, r = -0.35) and ΔAI@75 (p < 0.01, r = -0.38) were found. CONCLUSION Administration of TG causes an acute vasodilation and improves arterial stiffness probably due to non-genomic actions of T. Endothelial vasodilatory response was more pronounced depending on higher plasma TT and DHT levels attained. Clinical implications in elderly frail populations are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Francomano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - G Fattorini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - D Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - D Paoli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - P Sgrò
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University "Foro Italico" of Rome, 00135, Rome, Italy.
| | - A Radicioni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - F Romanelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - L Di Luigi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University "Foro Italico" of Rome, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - L Gandini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Aversa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Musicki B, Bella AJ, Bivalacqua TJ, Davies KP, DiSanto ME, Gonzalez-Cadavid NF, Hannan JL, Kim NN, Podlasek CA, Wingard CJ, Burnett AL. Basic Science Evidence for the Link Between Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiometabolic Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2015; 12:2233-55. [PMID: 26646025 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.13069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although clinical evidence supports an association between cardiovascular/metabolic diseases (CVMD) and erectile dysfunction (ED), scientific evidence for this link is incompletely elucidated. AIM This study aims to provide scientific evidence for the link between CVMD and ED. METHODS In this White Paper, the Basic Science Committee of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America assessed the current literature on basic scientific support for a mechanistic link between ED and CVMD, and deficiencies in this regard with a critical assessment of current preclinical models of disease. RESULTS A link exists between ED and CVMD on several grounds: the endothelium (endothelium-derived nitric oxide and oxidative stress imbalance); smooth muscle (SM) (SM abundance and altered molecular regulation of SM contractility); autonomic innervation (autonomic neuropathy and decreased neuronal-derived nitric oxide); hormones (impaired testosterone release and actions); and metabolics (hyperlipidemia, advanced glycation end product formation). CONCLUSION Basic science evidence supports the link between ED and CVMD. The Committee also highlighted gaps in knowledge and provided recommendations for guiding further scientific study defining this risk relationship. This endeavor serves to develop novel strategic directions for therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biljana Musicki
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anthony J Bella
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery and Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute at the University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Trinity J Bivalacqua
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelvin P Davies
- Department of Urology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael E DiSanto
- Department of Surgery/Division of Urology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Nestor F Gonzalez-Cadavid
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, CA, USA.,Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Johanna L Hannan
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Carol A Podlasek
- Departments of Urology, Physiology, and Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christopher J Wingard
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Hemnes AR, Kiely DG, Cockrill BA, Safdar Z, Wilson VJ, Al Hazmi M, Preston IR, MacLean MR, Lahm T. Statement on pregnancy in pulmonary hypertension from the Pulmonary Vascular Research Institute. Pulm Circ 2015; 5:435-65. [PMID: 26401246 PMCID: PMC4556496 DOI: 10.1086/682230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy outcomes in patients with pulmonary hypertension remain poor despite advanced therapies. Although consensus guidelines recommend against pregnancy in pulmonary hypertension, it may nonetheless occasionally occur. This guideline document sought to discuss the state of knowledge of pregnancy effects on pulmonary vascular disease and to define usual practice in avoidance of pregnancy and pregnancy management. This guideline is based on systematic review of peer-reviewed, published literature identified with MEDLINE. The strength of the literature was graded, and when it was inadequate to support high-level recommendations, consensus-based recommendations were formed according to prespecified criteria. There was no literature that met standards for high-level recommendations for pregnancy management in pulmonary hypertension. We drafted 38 consensus-based recommendations on pregnancy avoidance and management. Further, we identified the current state of knowledge on the effects of sex hormones during pregnancy on the pulmonary vasculature and right heart and suggested areas for future study. There is currently limited evidence-based knowledge about both the basic molecular effects of sex hormones and pregnancy on the pulmonary vasculature and the best practices in contraception and pregnancy management in pulmonary hypertension. We have drafted 38 consensus-based recommendations to guide clinicians in these challenging topics, but further research is needed in this area to define best practices and improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna R. Hemnes
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - David G. Kiely
- Sheffield Pulmonary Vascular Disease Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara A. Cockrill
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard University Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zeenat Safdar
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Victoria J. Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Manal Al Hazmi
- Section of Pulmonary Diseases, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ioana R. Preston
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Division, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mandy R. MacLean
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical and Veterinary Science, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Lahm
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, Occupational and Sleep Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine and Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Effect of androgen deprivation therapy on arterial stiffness and serum lipid profile changes in patients with prostate cancer: a prospective study of initial 6-month follow-up. Int J Clin Oncol 2015; 21:389-396. [DOI: 10.1007/s10147-015-0891-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
33
|
Rafikova O, Rafikov R, Meadows ML, Kangath A, Jonigk D, Black SM. The sexual dimorphism associated with pulmonary hypertension corresponds to a fibrotic phenotype. Pulm Circ 2015; 5:184-97. [PMID: 25992281 DOI: 10.1086/679724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although female predominance in the development of all types of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is well established, many clinical studies have confirmed that females have better prognosis and higher survival rate than males. There is no clear explanation of why sex influences the pathogenesis and progression of PH. Using a rat angioproliferative model of PH, which closely resembles the primary pathological changes observed in humans, we evaluated the role of sex in the development and progression of PH. Female rats had a more pronounced increase in medial thickness in the small pulmonary arteries. However, the infiltration of small pulmonary arteries by inflammatory cells was found only in male rats, and this corresponded to increased myeloperoxidase activity and abundant adventitial and medial fibrosis that were not present in female rats. Although the level of right ventricle (RV) peak systolic pressure was similar in both groups, the survival rate in male rats was significantly lower. Moreover, male rats presented with a more pronounced increase in RV thickness that correlated with diffuse RV fibrosis and significantly impaired right cardiac function. The reduction in fibrosis in female rats correlated with increased expression of caveolin-1 and reduced endothelial nitric oxide synthase-derived superoxide. We conclude that, in the pathogenesis of PH, female sex is associated with greater remodeling of the pulmonary arteries but greater survival. Conversely, in males, the development of pulmonary and cardiac fibrosis leads to early and severe RV failure, and this may be an important reason for the lower survival rate among males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Rafikova
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, USA ; These authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Ruslan Rafikov
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, USA ; These authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Mary Louise Meadows
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Archana Kangath
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Danny Jonigk
- Institute of Pathology, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Stephen M Black
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Imperlini E, Mancini A, Alfieri A, Martone D, Caterino M, Orrù S, Buono P. Molecular effects of supraphysiological doses of doping agents on health. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2015; 11:1494-506. [DOI: 10.1039/c5mb00030k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Supraphysiological doses of doping agents, such as T/DHT and GH/IGF-1, affect cellular pathways associated with apoptosis and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Annamaria Mancini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere
- Università “Parthenope” di Napoli
- 80133 Naples
- Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l
| | - Andreina Alfieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere
- Università “Parthenope” di Napoli
- 80133 Naples
- Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l
| | - Domenico Martone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere
- Università “Parthenope” di Napoli
- 80133 Naples
- Italy
| | | | - Stefania Orrù
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere
- Università “Parthenope” di Napoli
- 80133 Naples
- Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l
| | - Pasqualina Buono
- IRCCS SDN
- Naples
- Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere
- Università “Parthenope” di Napoli
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Testosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide share the same pathway to induce vasorelaxation of human umbilical artery. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2014; 63:461-5. [PMID: 24805147 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We recently observed in human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells that testosterone activates protein kinase G and stimulates large-conductance Ca²⁺ activated (BKCa) and voltage sensitive (KV) potassium channels. In the same work, we also show that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), an activator of particulate guanylate cyclase (pGC), stimulates the activity of BKCa and KV channels because of protein kinase G activation. The aim of this work was to prove that the relaxant effects of testosterone are also because of the increase of cGMP because of activation of the pGC. Subsarcolemmal cGMP signals were monitored in single cells by recording the cGMP-gated current (ICNG) in human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells expressing the wild-type rat olfactory cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel. Sodium nitroprusside (10 and 100 μM), ANP (0.1 and 1 μM), or testosterone (0.1, 1, and 10 μM) induced activation of ICNG. This activation induced by testosterone and ANP is bigger than that elicited by sodium nitroprusside. In summary, our study reveals that testosterone and ANP activate the pGC and induce vasorelaxation of human umbilical artery.
Collapse
|
36
|
Androgens in cardiac fibrosis and other cardiovascular mechanisms. Int J Cardiol 2014; 179:190-2. [PMID: 25464442 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.11.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
37
|
Gürer B, Turkoglu E, Kertmen H, Karavelioglu E, Arikok AT, Sekerci Z. Attenuation of cerebral vasospasm and secondary injury by testosterone following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage in rabbit. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2014; 156:2111-20; discussion 2120. [PMID: 25194970 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-014-2211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vasodilatator effects of testosterone have been widely studied and demonstrated. Based on previous studies of these vasodilatatory activities, we hypothesized that testosterone might have potential effects on subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced cerebral vasospasm. METHODS Thirty-two adult male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into four groups of eight rabbits in each group: group 1 (control); group 2 (subarachnoid hemorrhage); group 3 (subarachnoid hemorrhage + vehicle); and group 4 (subarachnoid hemorrhage + testosterone). Testosterone (15 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was administered 5 min after the intracisternal blood injection and continued for 72 h once per day in the same dose for group 4. Animals were killed 72 h after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Basilar artery cross-sectional areas, arterial wall thicknesses, and hippocampal degeneration scores were evaluated in all groups. RESULTS Intraperitoneal administration of testosterone was found to attenuate cerebral vasospasm and provide neuroprotection after subarachnoid hemorrhage in rabbits. Testosterone treatment was determined to be effective at increasing the luminal area and reducing the wall thickness of the basilar artery. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that testosterone has some preventive effects on SAH-induced vasospasm and secondary neuronal injury in rabbits. We propose that the vasodilatatory activity of testosterone is due to its effects on inhibiting calcium channels, activating potassium channels, augmenting nitric oxide synthesis, and inhibiting oxidant stress and inflammation.
Collapse
|
38
|
Mair KM, Johansen AKZ, Wright AF, Wallace E, MacLean MR. Pulmonary arterial hypertension: basis of sex differences in incidence and treatment response. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:567-79. [PMID: 23802760 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex disease characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular remodelling and occlusive pulmonary vascular lesions, leading to right heart failure. Evidence from recent epidemiological studies suggests the influence of gender on the development of PAH with an approximate female to male ratio of 4:1, depending on the underlying disease pathology. Overall, the therapeutic strategy for PAH remains suboptimal with poor survival rates observed in both genders. Endogenous sex hormones, in particular 17β oestradiol and its metabolites, have been implicated in the development of the disease; however, the influence of sex hormones on the underlying pathobiology remains controversial. Further understanding of the influence of sex hormones on the normal and diseased pulmonary circulation will be critical to our understanding the pathology of PAH and future therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will discuss the influence of sex hormones on the development of PAH and address recent controversies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K M Mair
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Tsai WC, Lee TI, Chen YC, Kao YH, Lu YY, Lin YK, Chen SA, Chen YJ. Testosterone replacement increases aged pulmonary vein and left atrium arrhythmogenesis with enhanced adrenergic activity. Int J Cardiol 2014; 176:110-8. [PMID: 25037694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.06.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging and testosterone deficiency contribute to the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). We determine the effects of testosterone replacement on the electrophysiology and arrhythmogenesis of pulmonary vein (PV) and left atrium (LA) in aged rabbits. METHODS Electrocardiography, heart rate variability, echocardiography, Western blot and conventional microelectrodes were used in aged rabbits (age, >2 years) with and without (control) testosterone treatment (10mg/kg, 12 weeks). RESULTS Testosterone-treated aged rabbits had longer corrected QT interval, higher low frequency/high frequency, greater left ventricle (LV) mass but lower LA total emptying fraction and LV ejection fraction than control rabbits. In tissue preparations, the spontaneous rate was faster for testosterone-treated PVs than for control PVs. Angiotensin II concentration-dependently increased the amplitude of delayed afterdepolarizations (DADs) in testosterone-treated PVs but only did so at the highest angiotensin II concentration (100 nM) in control PVs. Isoproterenol increased the incidence of early afterdepolarizations (EADs) and DADs in testosterone-treated PVs but not in control PVs. Testosterone-treated PVs had more H2O2-induced burst firing and EADs than control PVs. Testosterone-treated LAs had more isoproterenol-induced DADs and spontaneous activity than did control LAs. However, acetylcholine infusion and rapid atrial pacing (10-20 Hz) induced AF in control LAs but not in testosterone-treated LAs. In addition, as compared with control LAs, testosterone-treated LAs expressed more androgen receptor, β1-adrenergic receptor, and Cav 1.2 and less G protein-coupled receptor kinase-2 and Kv 4.2. CONCLUSIONS Testosterone replacement increased arrhythmogenesis in PV and LA by enhancing adrenergic activity in aged rabbits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chin Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Tzu-Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ting-I Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of General Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Chang Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsun Kao
- Department of Medical Education and Research, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Yu Lu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Cardiology, Sijhih Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Kuo Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ann Chen
- School of medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Cardiology, Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lahm T, Tuder RM, Petrache I. Progress in solving the sex hormone paradox in pulmonary hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2014; 307:L7-26. [PMID: 24816487 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00337.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating and progressive disease with marked morbidity and mortality. Even though being female represents one of the most powerful risk factors for PAH, multiple questions about the underlying mechanisms remain, and two "estrogen paradoxes" in PAH exist. First, it is puzzling why estrogens have been found to be protective in various animal models of PAH, whereas PAH registries uniformly demonstrate a female susceptibility to the disease. Second, despite the pronounced tendency for the disease to develop in women, female PAH patients exhibit better survival than men. Recent mechanistic studies in classical and in novel animal models of PAH, as well as recent studies in PAH patients, have significantly advanced the field. In particular, it is now accepted that estrogen metabolism and receptor signaling, as well as estrogen interactions with key pathways in PAH development, appear to be potent disease modifiers. A better understanding of these interactions may lead to novel PAH therapies. It is the purpose of this review to 1) review sex hormone synthesis, metabolism, and receptor physiology; 2) assess the context in which sex hormones affect PAH pathogenesis; 3) provide a potential explanation for the observed estrogen paradoxes and gender differences in PAH; and 4) identify knowledge gaps and future research opportunities. Because the majority of published studies investigated 17β-estradiol and/or its metabolites, this review will primarily focus on pulmonary vascular and right ventricular effects of estrogens. Data for other sex hormones will be discussed very briefly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Lahm
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, Occupational and Sleep Medicine, and Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center; Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; and
| | - Rubin M Tuder
- Program in Translational Lung Research, Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Irina Petrache
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, Occupational and Sleep Medicine, and Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center; Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; and
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Martin YN, Pabelick CM. Sex differences in the pulmonary circulation: implications for pulmonary hypertension. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 306:H1253-64. [PMID: 24610923 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00857.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a form of pulmonary hypertension, is a complex disease of multifactorial origin. While new developments regarding pathophysiological features and therapeutic options in PAH are being reported, one important fact has emerged over the years: there is a sex difference in the incidence of this disease such that while there is a higher incidence in females, disease outcomes are much worse in males. Accordingly, recent attention has been focused on understanding the features of sex differences in the pulmonary circulation and the contributory mechanisms, particularly sex hormones and their role in the pathological and pathophysiological features of PAH. However, to date, there is no clear consensus whether sex hormones (particularly female sex steroids) are beneficial or detrimental in PAH. In this review, we highlight some of the most recent evidence regarding the influence of sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone) and estrogen metabolites on key pathophysiological features of PAH such as proliferation, vascular remodeling, vasodilation/constriction, and inflammation, thus setting the stage for research avenues to identify novel therapeutic target for PAH as well as potentially other forms of pulmonary hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvette N Martin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; and
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Saldanha PA, Cairrão E, Maia CJ, Verde I. Long- and short-term effects of androgens in human umbilical artery smooth muscle. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2013; 40:181-9. [PMID: 23278339 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Revised: 11/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of androgens in the regulation of human umbilical artery (HUA) contractility. The short-term effects of testosterone on the tone of the HUA were investigated, as were the long-term effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the expression of some proteins involved in the contractile process. Endothelium-denuded HUA were treated for 24 h with DHT (2 μmol/L) or the vehicle control (ethanol) to analyse the genomic effects of androgens. Twenty-four hour treatment of HUA with DHT increased the mRNA expression of the β(1)-subunit of the large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated (BK(Ca)) channel and decreased expression of the α-subunit of L-type calcium channels. In organ bath studies, testosterone (1-100 μmol/L) produced similar relaxant responses in DHT- and vehicle-treated HUA rings precontracted with 5-HT, histamine and KCl. However, the relaxation response obtained by the combined application of testosterone (100 μmol/L) and nifedipine (10 μmol/L) was significantly greater in DHT- compared with vehicle-treated HUA. The results indicate that the rapid vasorelaxant effects of testosterone that are dependent on both BK(Ca) and voltage-sensitive potassium (K(V)) channel activity in control arteries become dependent solely on K(V) channel activity in DHT-treated HUA. Thus, the present study reveals the importance of the investigation of both the short- and long-term effects of androgens in human arteries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo A Saldanha
- Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of premature death in men. Epidemiological studies have shown a high prevalence of low serum testosterone levels in men with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, a low testosterone level is associated in some but not in all observational studies with an increase in cardiovascular events and mortality. Testosterone has beneficial effects on several cardiovascular risk factors, which include cholesterol, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation: key mediators of atherosclerosis. A bidirectional relationship between low endogenous testosterone levels and concurrent illness complicates attempts to validate causality in this association and potential mechanistic actions are complex. Testosterone is a vasoactive hormone that predominantly has vasodilatory actions on several vascular beds, although some studies have reported conflicting effects. In clinical studies, acute and chronic testosterone administration increases coronary artery diameter and flow, improves cardiac ischaemia and symptoms in men with chronic stable angina and reduces peripheral vascular resistance in chronic heart failure. Although the mechanism of the action of testosterone on vascular tone in vivo is not understood, laboratory research has found that testosterone is an L-calcium channel blocker and induces potassium channel activation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Animal studies have consistently demonstrated that testosterone is atheroprotective, whereas testosterone deficiency promotes the early stages of atherogenesis. The translational effects of testosterone between in vitro animal and human studies, some of which have conflicting effects, will be discussed in this review. We review the evidence for a role of testosterone in vascular health, its therapeutic potential and safety in hypogonadal men with CVD, and some of the possible underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Kelly
- Department of Human Metabolism, Medical School, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Al-Ali BM, Shamloul R, Pichler M, Augustin H, Pummer K. Clinical and laboratory profiles of a large cohort of patients with different grades of varicocele. Cent European J Urol 2013; 66:71-4. [PMID: 24578996 PMCID: PMC3921831 DOI: 10.5173/ceju.2013.01.art22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Revised: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective In this retrospective study we attempted to report our own data on the different clinical parameters in association with the presence and severity of varicocele in a large group of Austrian men. Methods The records of 1,111 consecutive patients with clinical varicocele from 1993 to 2010 were evaluated. The presence, grade, and side of any varicocele were recorded. Semen samples, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels, and testicular volume were assessed. Results The mean age was 28.8 (±7.3) years. Three hundred seventeen (28.5%) patients presented with grade I varicocele, 427 (38.4%) with grade II varicocele, and 367 (33%) with grade III varicocele. Correlation between different grades of varicocele and semen quality indicated an over–representation of oligospermia and asthenoteratospermia in the group of grade III varicocele (p <0.05), whereas other parameters of semen quality showed no significant difference between the three groups. Serum testosterone levels and BMI were significantly associated (p <0.05) with the grade of varicocele, but no association was found with the other parameters analyzed. Conclusions Our analysis showed a significant relationship between the grade of varicocele and semen analysis. Moreover, higher testosterone levels and lower body mass index were associated with the higher grade of varicocele and decreased semen quality. More prospective studies are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rany Shamloul
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STDs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Martin Pichler
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Karl Pummer
- Department of Urology, Medical University Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tirabassi G, Gioia A, Giovannini L, Boscaro M, Corona G, Carpi A, Maggi M, Balercia G. Testosterone and cardiovascular risk. Intern Emerg Med 2013; 8 Suppl 1:S65-9. [PMID: 23475207 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-013-0914-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular (CV) disease is one of the most common causes of death in the western populations and, nowadays, its incidence is increasing even in the developing countries; although CV disease affects both sexes, it is more frequent in males in whom it shortens the average life expectancy. In this regard, this difference has been wrongly attributed for many years to the negative effects of testosterone (T); however, nowadays, a large amount of evidence suggests that this hormone may have protective effects on the CV system and that, indeed, the low levels of T could be associated with an increased CV risk and with an augmentation of morbidity and mortality in males. Such an aspect gains great relevance in light of the consideration that T decrease, besides occurring as a consequence of rare pathological conditions, can often take place with natural aging, causing a state of "male menopause", also called late-onset hypogonadism. In this review, we aimed to summarize the present state of the art concerning the association between T deficit and CV disease by analyzing the protective role of T on CV system and the relationship of this hormonal lack with metabolic syndrome, CV morbidity and mortality, and with the CV complications, such as ischemic heart disease, heart failure and stroke, that frequently occur in T deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Umar S, Rabinovitch M, Eghbali M. Estrogen paradox in pulmonary hypertension: current controversies and future perspectives. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2012; 186:125-31. [PMID: 22561960 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201201-0058pp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the incidence of pulmonary hypertension is higher in female patients, numerous experimental studies have demonstrated better outcome in female animals, exacerbation of the disease after ovariectomy, and a strong protective effect of estrogen: a phenomenon known as the "estrogen paradox" of pulmonary hypertension. On the other hand, some clinical studies have indirectly linked estrogen to increased risk of portopulmonary hypertension, whereas others implicate increased estrogen metabolism and high levels of certain estrogen metabolites in promoting pulmonary vascular remodeling in familial pulmonary arterial hypertension. In this review we investigate the estrogen paradox through highlighting the differential receptor-mediated effects of estrogen. Although estrogen and estrogen receptor-based therapies have shown promise in rescuing preexisting pulmonary hypertension in animals, their role is yet to be defined in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soban Umar
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Campelo AE, Cutini PH, Massheimer VL. Testosterone modulates platelet aggregation and endothelial cell growth through nitric oxide pathway. J Endocrinol 2012; 213:77-87. [PMID: 22281525 DOI: 10.1530/joe-11-0441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of testosterone on the modulation of cellular events associated with vascular homeostasis. In rat aortic strips, 5-20 min treatment with physiological concentrations of testosterone significantly increased nitric oxide (NO) production. The rapid action of the steroid was suppressed by the presence of an androgen receptor antagonist (flutamide). We obtained evidence that the enhancement in NO synthesis was dependent on the influx of calcium from extracellular medium, because in the presence of a calcium channel blocker (verapamil) the effect of testosterone was reduced. Using endothelial cell (EC) cultures, we demonstrated that androgen directly acts at the endothelial level. Chelerythrine or PD98059 compound completely suppressed the increase in NO production, suggesting that the mechanism of action of the steroid involves protein kinase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. It is known that endothelial NO released into the vascular lumen serves as an inhibitor of platelet activation and aggregation. We showed that testosterone inhibited platelet aggregation and this effect was dependent on endothelial NO synthesis. Indeed, the enhancement of NO production elicited by androgen was associated with EC growth. The steroid significantly increased DNA synthesis after 24 h of treatment, and this mitogenic action was blunted in the presence of NO synthase inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester. In summary, testosterone modulates vascular EC growth and platelet aggregation through its direct action on endothelial NO production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrián E Campelo
- Cátedra de Bioquímica Clínica II, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Regional differences in the vasorelaxing effects of testosterone and its 5-reduced metabolites in the canine vasculature. Vascul Pharmacol 2012; 56:176-82. [PMID: 22326440 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2012.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2011] [Revised: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although the vasorelaxing effects of testosterone (T) and various androgen metabolites have been observed in a variety of blood vessels and species, previous studies have not systematically compared the vasorelaxing effects of androgen metabolites in different vascular beds within the same species. Therefore, we studied the vasorelaxing effects of T and its 5-reduced metabolites (5α- and 5β-DHT) on KCl-induced contractions of the canine left coronary artery, femoral artery and saphenous vein, using standard isometric recordings. KCl contractions were inhibited by each androgen in a concentration-dependent manner from 1.8 to 310μM. Vascular sensitivity and efficacy were expressed as inhibitory concentration 50 (IC₅₀) and maximal relaxation (R(max)), respectively. The coronary artery was significantly more sensitive to androgen-induced vasorelaxation than the saphenous vein or femoral artery. These vasorelaxing responses were unaffected by an antiandrogen (Flutamide) or the sulfhydryl reagent, N-ethylmaleimide, suggesting a nongenomic mechanism independent of signaling mediated by the androgen receptor or G proteins. Concentration-response curves were unchanged in endothelium-denuded preparations; thus, the endothelium appears to have no role in androgen-induced vasorelaxation. 5β-DHT was the most potent androgen in both coronary and femoral artery, but all three androgens were equipotent in the saphenous vein. It is concluded that: 1) significant regional differences exist in vasorelaxing effects of androgen metabolites in the canine vasculature; 2) structural differences in these androgens determine their vasorelaxing efficacy; and 3) regional differences in androgen-induced vasorelaxation may account for some of the conflicting findings reported on the vasorelaxing effects of the androgens.
Collapse
|
49
|
Deenadayalu V, Puttabyatappa Y, Liu AT, Stallone JN, White RE. Testosterone-induced relaxation of coronary arteries: activation of BKCa channels via the cGMP-dependent protein kinase. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2011; 302:H115-23. [PMID: 22081702 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00046.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are reported to have both beneficial and detrimental effects on human cardiovascular health. The aim of this study was to characterize nongenomic signaling mechanisms in coronary artery smooth muscle (CASM) and define the ionic basis of testosterone (TES) action. TES-induced relaxation of endothelium-denuded porcine coronary arteries was nearly abolished by 20 nM iberiotoxin, a highly specific inhibitor of large-conductance, calcium-activated potassium (BK(Ca)) channels. Molecular patch-clamp studies confirmed that nanomolar concentrations of TES stimulated BK(Ca) channel activity by ∼100-fold and that inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity by N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine nearly abolished this effect. Inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis or guanylyl cyclase activity also attenuated TES-induced coronary artery relaxation but did not alter relaxation due to 8-bromo-cGMP. Furthermore, we detected TES-stimulated NO production in porcine coronary arteries and in human CASM cells via stimulation of the type 1 neuronal NOS isoform. Inhibition of the cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) attenuated TES-stimulated BK(Ca) channel activity, and direct assay determined that TES increased activity of PKG in a concentration-dependent fashion. Last, the stimulatory effect of TES on BK(Ca) channel activity was mimicked by addition of purified PKG to the cytoplasmic surface of a cell-free membrane patch from CASM myocytes (∼100-fold increase). These findings indicate that TES-induced relaxation of endothelium-denuded coronary arteries is mediated, at least in part, by enhanced NO production, leading to cGMP synthesis and PKG activation, which, in turn, opens BK(Ca) channels. These findings provide a molecular mechanism that could help explain why androgens have been reported to relax coronary arteries and relieve angina pectoris.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viju Deenadayalu
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Wright State University School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Umar S, Iorga A, Matori H, Nadadur RD, Li J, Maltese F, van der Laarse A, Eghbali M. Estrogen rescues preexisting severe pulmonary hypertension in rats. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2011; 184:715-23. [PMID: 21700911 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201101-0078oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by progressive increase in pulmonary artery pressure leading to right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy, RV failure, and death. Current treatments only temporarily reduce severity of the disease, and an ideal therapy is still lacking. OBJECTIVES Estrogen pretreatment has been shown to attenuate development of PH. Because PH is not often diagnosed early, we examined if estrogen can rescue preexisting advanced PH. METHODS PH was induced in male rats with monocrotaline (60 mg/kg). At Day 21, rats were either treated with 17-β estradiol or estrogen (E2, 42.5 μg/kg/d), estrogen receptor-β agonist (diarylpropionitrile, 850 μg/kg/d), or estrogen receptor α-agonist (4,4',4"-[4-Propyl-(1H)-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl] trisphenol, 850 μg/kg/d) for 10 days or left untreated to develop RV failure. Serial echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time polymerase chain reaction were performed. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Estrogen therapy prevented progression of PH to RV failure and restored lung and RV structure and function. This restoration was maintained even after removal of estrogen at Day 30, resulting in 100% survival at Day 42. Estradiol treatment restored the loss of blood vessels in the lungs and RV. In the presence of angiogenesis inhibitor TNP-470 (30 mg/kg) or estrogen receptor-β antagonist (PHTPP, 850 μg/kg/d), estrogen failed to rescue PH. Estrogen receptor-β selective agonist was as effective as estrogen in rescuing PH. CONCLUSIONS Estrogen rescues preexisting severe PH in rats by restoring lung and RV structure and function that are maintained even after removal of estrogen. Estrogen-induced rescue of PH is associated with stimulation of cardiopulmonary neoangiogenesis, suppression of inflammation, fibrosis, and RV hypertrophy. Furthermore, estrogen rescue is likely mediated through estrogen receptor-β.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soban Umar
- University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, BH-160CHS, 650 Charles Young Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7115, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|