1
|
Fang J, Zhou Y, He Y, Zhou J, Tang J, Luo Q, Guo J, Chen G. Associations among neighborhood walkability, metal exposure, and sex steroid hormone levels: Results from Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study Ⅱ. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116427. [PMID: 38733803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neighborhood walkability may influence maternal-fetal exposure to environmental hazards and maternal-fetal health (e.g., fetal growth restriction, reproductive toxicity). However, few studies have explored the association between neighborhood walkability and hormones in pregnant women. METHODS We included 533 pregnant women from the Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study II (HBCS-II) with testosterone (TTE) and estradiol (E2) measured for analysis. Neighborhood walkability was evaluated by calculating a walkability index based on geo-coded addresses. Placental metals were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). TTE and E2 levels in umbilical cord blood were measured using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). Linear regression model was used to estimate the relationship between the walkability index, placental metals, and sex steroid hormones. Effect modification was also assessed to estimate the effect of placental metals on the associations of neighborhood walkability with TTE and E2. RESULTS Neighborhood walkability was significantly linked to increased E2 levels (P trend=0.023). Compared with participants at the first quintile (Q1) of walkability index, those at the third quintiles (Q3) had lower chromium (Cr) levels (β = -0.212, 95% CI = -0.421 to -0.003). Arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), antimony (Sb), selenium (Se), tin (Sn), and vanadium (V) were linked to decreased TTE levels, and cadmium (Cd) was linked to increased TTE levels. No metal was significantly associated with E2 levels in trend analysis. In the analysis of effect modification, the associations of neighborhood walkability with TTE and E2 were significantly modified by Mn (P = 0.005) and Cu (P = 0.049) respectively. CONCLUSION Neighborhood walkability could be a favorable factor for E2 production during pregnancy, which may be inhibited by maternal exposure to heavy metals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Fang
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Yexinyi Zhou
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Yinyin He
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jiena Zhou
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Qiong Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Michel A, Kokten T, Saber-Cherif L, Umoret R, Alberto JM, Helle D, Julien A, Daval JL, Guéant JL, Bossenmeyer-Pourié C, Pourié G. Folate and Cobalamin Deficiencies during Pregnancy Disrupt the Glucocorticoid Response in Hypothalamus through N-Homocysteinilation of the Glucocorticoid Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9847. [PMID: 37372992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B9 (folate)/B12 (cobalamin) deficiency is known to induce brain structural and/or functional retardations. In many countries, folate supplementation, targeting the most severe outcomes such as neural tube defects, is discontinued after the first trimester. However, adverse effects may occur after birth because of some mild misregulations. Various hormonal receptors were shown to be deregulated in brain tissue under these conditions. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is particularly sensitive to epigenetic regulation and post-translational modifications. In a mother-offspring rat model of vitamin B9/B12 deficiency, we investigated whether a prolonged folate supplementation could restore the GR signaling in the hypothalamus. Our data showed that a deficiency of folate and vitamin B12 during the in-utero and early postnatal periods was associated with reduced GR expression in the hypothalamus. We also described for the first time a novel post-translational modification of GR that impaired ligand binding and GR activation, leading to decrease expression of one of the GR targets in the hypothalamus, AgRP. Moreover, this brain-impaired GR signaling pathway was associated with behavioral perturbations during offspring growth. Importantly, perinatal and postnatal supplementation with folic acid helped restore GR mRNA levels and activity in hypothalamus cells and improved behavioral deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Michel
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Tunay Kokten
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Lynda Saber-Cherif
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Rémy Umoret
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Marc Alberto
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Déborah Helle
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Amélia Julien
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Luc Daval
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Louis Guéant
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
- National Center of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, University Regional Hospital of Nancy, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Carine Bossenmeyer-Pourié
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Grégory Pourié
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE-Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fowden AL, Vaughan OR, Murray AJ, Forhead AJ. Metabolic Consequences of Glucocorticoid Exposure before Birth. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14112304. [PMID: 35684104 PMCID: PMC9182938 DOI: 10.3390/nu14112304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids have an important role in development of the metabolic phenotype in utero. They act as environmental and maturational signals in adapting feto-placental metabolism to maximize the chances of survival both before and at birth. They influence placental nutrient handling and fetal metabolic processes to support fetal growth, fuel storage and energy production with respect to nutrient availability. More specifically, they regulate the transport, utilization and production of a range of nutrients by the feto-placental tissues that enables greater metabolic flexibility in utero while minimizing any further drain on maternal resources during periods of stress. Near term, the natural rise in fetal glucocorticoid concentrations also stimulates key metabolic adaptations that prepare tissues for the new energy demanding functions after birth. Glucocorticoids, therefore, have a central role in the metabolic communication between the mother, placenta and fetus that optimizes offspring metabolic phenotype for survival to reproductive age. This review discusses the effects of maternal and fetal glucocorticoids on the supply and utilization of nutrients by the feto-placental tissues with particular emphasis on studies using quantitative methods to assess metabolism in rodents and sheep in vivo during late pregnancy. It considers the routes of glucocorticoid overexposure in utero, including experimental administration of synthetic glucocorticoids, and the mechanisms by which these hormones control feto-placental metabolism at the molecular, cellular and systems levels. It also briefly examines the consequences of intrauterine glucocorticoid overexposure for postnatal metabolic health and the generational inheritance of metabolic phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail L. Fowden
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; (A.J.M.); (A.J.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Owen R. Vaughan
- EGA Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London WC1E 6HX, UK;
| | - Andrew J. Murray
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; (A.J.M.); (A.J.F.)
| | - Alison J. Forhead
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; (A.J.M.); (A.J.F.)
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Characterization of Sex Differences in Hypoglycemia-Induced Activation of HPA Axis on the Transcriptomic Level. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1523-1542. [PMID: 33544274 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01043-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis using an insulin tolerance test (ITT) is a medical diagnostic procedure that is frequently used in humans to assess the HPA and growth-hormone (GH) axes. Whether sex differences exist in the response to ITT stress is unknown. Thus, investigations into the analysis of transcripts during activation of the HPA axis in response to hypoglycemia have revealed the underlying influences of sex in signaling pathways that stimulate the HPA axis. We assessed four time points of ITT application in Balb/c mice. After insulin injection, expression levels of 192 microRNAs and 41 mRNAs associated with the HPA, GH and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes were determined by real-time RT-PCR in the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal tissues, as well as blood samples (Raw data accession: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10qI00NAtjxOepcNKxSJnQbJeBFa6zgHK?usp=sharing ). Although the ITT is commonly used as a gold standard for evaluating the HPA axis, we found completely different responses between males and females with respect to activation of the HPA axis. While activation of several transcripts in the hypothalamus and pituitary was observed after performing the ITT in males within 10 min, females responded via the pituitary and adrenal immediately and durably over 40 min. Additionally, we found that microRNA alterations precede mRNA responses in the HPA axis. Furthermore, robust changes in the levels of several transcripts including Avpr1b and Avpr2 observed at all time points strongly suggest that transcriptional control of these genes occurs mostly via differential signaling in pituitary and blood between males and females. Male and female HPA axis responses to ITT involve a number of sophisticated regulatory signaling pathways of miRNAs and mRNAs. Our results highlight the first robust markers in several layers of HPA, HPG and GH axis involved in ITT/hypoglycemia stress-induced dynamics.
Collapse
|
5
|
Baud O, Berkane N. Hormonal Changes Associated With Intra-Uterine Growth Restriction: Impact on the Developing Brain and Future Neurodevelopment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:179. [PMID: 30972026 PMCID: PMC6443724 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The environment in which a fetus develops is not only important for its growth and maturation but also for its long-term postnatal health and neurodevelopment. Several hormones including glucocorticosteroids, estrogens and progesterone, insulin growth factor and thyroid hormones, carefully regulate the growth of the fetus and its metabolism during pregnancy by controlling the supply of nutrients crossing the placenta. In addition to fetal synthesis, hormones regulating fetal growth are also expressed and regulated in the placenta, and they play a key role in the vulnerability of the developing brain and its maturation. This review summarizes the current understanding and evidence regarding the involvement of hormonal dysregulation associated with intra-uterine growth restriction and its consequences on brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Baud
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Department of Women-Children-Teenagers, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Inserm U1141, Sorbonne, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Olivier Baud
| | - Nadia Berkane
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women-Children-Teenagers, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sun X, Li J, Jin S, Li Y, Liu W, Zhao H, Zhou Y, Jiang Y, Liu H, Xia W, Cai Z, Xu S, Shen X. Associations between repeated measures of maternal urinary phthalate metabolites during pregnancy and cord blood glucocorticoids. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 121:471-479. [PMID: 30278310 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have suggested that phthalates might disrupt fetal steroidogenesis. However, the evidence of the effects of prenatal phthalate exposure across pregnancy on fetal glucocorticoids was insufficient. OBJECTIVE We investigated the associations between urinary phthalate metabolites across pregnancy and cord blood glucocorticoids in a prospective birth cohort. METHODS Our study included 553 mother-infant pairs from a prospective birth cohort conducted in Wuhan, China. Maternal urine samples were collected at 14, 24 and 36 weeks of gestation (mean). Urinary phthalate metabolites and cord blood glucocorticoids (cortisol and cortisone) were measured. Generalized estimating equation models were conducted to explore the relationships of phthalate metabolite concentrations at each trimester and glucocorticoid levels. RESULTS Among the participants, mono‑benzyl phthalate (MBzP) in the first trimester was associated with higher cortisol/cortisone ratio concentrations, and mono‑(2‑ethyl‑5‑carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) and mono‑(2‑ethyl‑5‑oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) measured in the third trimester were associated with decreased cortisone. Moreover, the associations between phthalates and glucocorticoids varied by sex. Among the female infants, each 10-fold increase in several maternal urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations in 1st and 3rd trimester was associated with the increased glucocorticoid levels with percent changes ranged from 16.2%-55.9%. However, among male infants, each 10-fold increase in maternal urinary MECPP, mono‑(2‑ethyl‑5‑hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP) and MEOHP in 3rd trimester was associated with 20.8%-36.3% decreased cortisol and cortisone levels, respectively. CONCLUSION We have shown that prenatal phthalate exposure during early and late trimester disrupted the infant steroidogenesis and these associations might be modified by infant sex. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate phthalate exposure at three trimesters during pregnancy in relation to infant glucocorticoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Jiufeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shuna Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Wenyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Hongzhi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yangqian Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Hongxiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Xiantao Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, #13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Oksuzoglu A, Engin Ustun Y, Aktulay A, Yoruk O, Seckin B, Danisman N. First and Second Trimester Biochemical Markers in Maternal Epilepsy: A Case-Control Study. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2018; 37:319-325. [PMID: 30247941 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2018.1502381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our aim is to investigate whether the maternal serum levels of first and second trimester serum analytes are altered in women with epilepsy in pregnancy. METHODS Maternal serum biochemical markers (estriol, alpha-fetoprotein [AFP], human chorionic gonadotrophin [hCG], free β hCG, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A) were compared in a series of 122 pregnant women with epilepsy and in a cohort of 122 normal pregnant women. The serum samples were obtained between 11-13 6/7 weeks and 16-18 weeks gestation. RESULTS Second trimester serum estriol levels, expressed as multiples of the median (MoM), in the epileptic group (1.55 ± 0.77 MoM) were significantly higher than those in the control patients (1.13 ± 0.40 MoM) (p < 0.001). Of the women with epilepsy, 66.3% (n = 81) were exposed to antiepileptic drugs. CONCLUSION Our study revealed that otherwise uncomplicated pregnant epileptic women had higher second trimester (18-20 weeks of gestation) estriol levels compared to non-epileptic pregnant women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aysegul Oksuzoglu
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Yaprak Engin Ustun
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ayla Aktulay
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ozlem Yoruk
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Berna Seckin
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Nuri Danisman
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Braun F, Hardt AK, Ehrlich L, Sloboda DM, Challis JRG, Plagemann A, Henrich W, Braun T. Sex-specific and lasting effects of a single course of antenatal betamethasone treatment on human placental 11β-HSD2. Placenta 2018; 69:9-19. [PMID: 30213491 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We have previously shown that even a single course of antenatal betamethasone (BET) as an inductor for lung maturity reduces birth weight and head circumference. Moreover, animal studies link BET administration to alterations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-gland-axis (HPA). The unhindered development of the fetal HPA axis is dependent on the function and activity of 11β-hydroxysteroiddehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), a transplacental cortisol barrier. Therefore, we investigated the effects of BET on this transplacental barrier and fetal growth. METHODS Pregnant women treated with a single course of BET between 23 + 5 to 34 + 0 weeks of gestation were compared to gestational-age-matched controls. Placental size and neonatal anthropometrics were taken. Cortisol and ACTH levels were measured in maternal and umbilical cord blood samples. Placental 11β-hydroxysteroiddehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) protein levels and 11β-HSD2 protein and activity levels were determined. Parameters were analyzed independent of sex, and in subgroups divided by gender and gestational age. RESULTS In term born females, BET administration was associated with reduced head circumference and decreased 11β-HSD2 protein levels and enzyme activity. Males treated with BET, especially those born prematurely, showed increased 11β-HSD2 protein levels. CONCLUSION A single course of BET alters placental glucocorticoid metabolism in a sex-specific manner. Decreased 11β-HSD2 levels in term born females may lead to an increased placental transfer of maternal cortisol and therefore result in a reduced head circumference and a higher risk for altered stress response in adulthood. Further research is needed to conclude the significance of increased 11β-HSD2 levels in males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - A K Hardt
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - L Ehrlich
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - D M Sloboda
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Main Street West, Ontario L8S4L8, Hamilton, 1280, Canada
| | - J R G Challis
- Department of Physiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto King's College Circle, Ontario M5S 1A8, Toronto, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, University Drive, 8888, B.C, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, Canada
| | - A Plagemann
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - W Henrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - T Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Division of 'Experimental Obstetrics̔, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Astiz M, Oster H. Perinatal Programming of Circadian Clock-Stress Crosstalk. Neural Plast 2018; 2018:5689165. [PMID: 29593783 PMCID: PMC5822916 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5689165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
An intact communication between circadian clocks and the stress system is important for maintaining physiological homeostasis under resting conditions and in response to external stimuli. There is accumulating evidence for a reciprocal interaction between both-from the systemic to the molecular level. Disruption of this interaction by external factors such as shiftwork, jetlag, or chronic stress increases the risk of developing metabolic, immune, or mood disorders. From experiments in rodents, we know that both systems maturate during the perinatal period. During that time, exogenous factors such as stress or alterations in the external photoperiod may critically affect-or program-physiological functions later in life. This developmental programming process has been attributed to maternal stress signals reaching the embryo, which lastingly change gene expression through the induction of epigenetic mechanisms. Despite the well-known function of the adult circadian system in temporal coordination of physiology and behavior, the role of maternal and embryonic circadian clocks during pregnancy and postnatal development is still poorly defined. A better understanding of the circadian-stress crosstalk at different periods of development may help to improve stress resistance and devise preventive and therapeutic strategies against chronic stress-associated disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Astiz
- Institute of Neurobiology, Center of Brain, Behavior & Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Marie-Curie Street, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Henrik Oster
- Institute of Neurobiology, Center of Brain, Behavior & Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Marie-Curie Street, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li X, Zhang M, Pan X, Xu Z, Sun M. “Three Hits” Hypothesis for Developmental Origins of Health and Diseases in View of Cardiovascular Abnormalities. Birth Defects Res 2017; 109:744-757. [PMID: 28509412 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Institute for Fetology; First Hospital of Soochow University; Suzhou China
| | - Mengshu Zhang
- Institute for Fetology; First Hospital of Soochow University; Suzhou China
| | - Xinghua Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology in Guangdong province; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
- Department of Genetics; Yale University School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Zhice Xu
- Institute for Fetology; First Hospital of Soochow University; Suzhou China
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology; First Hospital of Soochow University; Suzhou China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
The fetal hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is at the center of mechanisms controlling fetal readiness for birth, survival after birth and, in several species, determination of the timing of birth. Stereotypical increases in fetal HPA axis activity at the end of gestation are critical for preparing the fetus for successful transition to postnatal life. The fundamental importance in fetal development of the endogenous activation of this endocrine axis at the end of gestation has led to the use of glucocorticoids for reducing neonatal morbidity in premature infants. However, the choice of dose and repetition of treatments has been controversial, raising the possibility that excess glucocorticoid might program an increased incidence of adult disease (e.g., coronary artery disease and diabetes). We make the argument that because of the critical importance of the fetal HPA axis and its interaction with the maternal HPA axis, dysregulation of cortisol plasma concentrations or inappropriate manipulation pharmacologically can have negative consequences at the beginning of extrauterine life and for decades thereafter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Wood
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, FL, USA
| | - Maureen Keller-Wood
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida College of Pharmacy, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Isaksson J, Lindblad F, Valladares E, Högberg U. High maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy are associated with more psychiatric symptoms in offspring at age of nine - A prospective study from Nicaragua. J Psychiatr Res 2015; 71:97-102. [PMID: 26458013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2015.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Maternal exposure to stress or adversity during pregnancy has been associated with negative health effects for the offspring including psychiatric symptoms. Programming of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been suggested as one mediating process. In order to investigate possible long term effects of stressors during pregnancy, we followed 70 children and their mothers from pregnancy up to nine years aiming to investigate if maternal cortisol levels and distress/exposure to partner violence were associated with child psychiatric symptoms and child cortisol levels at follow-up. Maternal distress was evaluated using The Self Reporting Questionnaire, exposure to partner violence by an instrument from WHO and child psychiatric symptoms with Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). We adjusted the analyses for gestational week, gender, SES, perinatal data and maternal distress/exposure to partner violence at child age of nine years. Elevated maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy, as a possible marker of maternal stress load, were correlated with higher CBCL-ratings, especially concerning externalizing symptoms. Maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy were not associated with child cortisol levels at child age of nine years. Maternal distress and exposure to partner violence during pregnancy were neither associated with child psychiatric symptoms nor child cortisol levels. To conclude, intrauterine exposure to elevated cortisol levels was associated with higher ratings on offspring psychopathology at nine years of age. The lack of association between maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy and child cortisol levels does not support the hypothesis of fetal programming of the HPA-axis, but reliability problems may have contributed to this negative finding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Isaksson
- Department of Neuroscience, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Uppsala University, Sweden.
| | - F Lindblad
- Department of Neuroscience, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - E Valladares
- Center for Research and Interventions in Health, León, Nicaragua
| | - U Högberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Uppsala University, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Low birth weight serves as a crude proxy for impaired growth during fetal life and indicates a failure for the fetus to achieve its full growth potential. Low birth weight can occur in response to numerous etiologies that include complications during pregnancy, poor prenatal care, parental smoking, maternal alcohol consumption, or stress. Numerous epidemiological and experimental studies demonstrate that birth weight is inversely associated with blood pressure and coronary heart disease. Sex and age impact the developmental programming of hypertension. In addition, impaired growth during fetal life also programs enhanced vulnerability to a secondary insult. Macrosomia, which occurs in response to maternal obesity, diabetes, and excessive weight gain during gestation, is also associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Yet, the exact mechanisms that permanently change the structure, physiology, and endocrine health of an individual across their lifespan following altered growth during fetal life are not entirely clear. Transmission of increased risk from one generation to the next in the absence of an additional prenatal insult indicates an important role for epigenetic processes. Experimental studies also indicate that the sympathetic nervous system, the renin angiotensin system, increased production of oxidative stress, and increased endothelin play an important role in the developmental programming of blood pressure in later life. Thus, this review will highlight how adverse influences during fetal life and early development program an increased risk for cardiovascular disease including high blood pressure and provide an overview of the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the fetal origins of cardiovascular pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Women's Health Research Center, Center for Cardiovascular-Renal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Olsen SF, Maslova E, Strøm M. Fetal programming--expands the obstetrician's field of work. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2014; 93:1075-6. [PMID: 25277784 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sjurdur F Olsen
- Center for Fetal Programming, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Øresunds Boulevard 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chintamaneni K, Bruder ED, Raff H. Programming of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis by neonatal intermittent hypoxia: effects on adult male ACTH and corticosterone responses are stress specific. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1763-70. [PMID: 24564395 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Intermittent hypoxia (IH) is an animal model of apnea-induced hypoxia, a common stressor in the premature neonate. Neonatal stressors may have long-term programming effects in the adult. We hypothesized that neonatal exposure to IH leads to significant changes in basal and stress-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function in the adult male rat. Rat pups were exposed to normoxia (control) or 6 approximately 30-second cycles of IH (5% or 10% inspired O₂) daily on postnatal days 2-6. At approximately 100 days of age, we assessed the diurnal rhythm of plasma corticosterone and stress-induced plasma ACTH and corticosterone responses, as well as mRNA expression of pertinent genes within the HPA axis. Basal diurnal rhythm of plasma corticosterone concentrations in the adult rat were not affected by prior exposure to neonatal IH. Adults exposed to 10% IH as neonates exhibited an augmented peak ACTH response and a prolonged corticosterone response to restraint stress; however, HPA axis responses to insulin-induced hypoglycemia were not augmented in adults exposed to neonatal IH. Pituitary Pomc, Crhr1, Nr3c1, Nr3c2, Avpr1b, and Hif1a mRNA expression was decreased in adults exposed to neonatal 10% IH. Expression of pertinent hypothalamic and adrenal mRNAs was not affected by neonatal IH. We conclude that exposure to neonatal 10% IH programs the adult HPA axis to hyperrespond to acute stimuli in a stressor-specific manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathan Chintamaneni
- Endocrine Research Laboratory (K.C., E.D.B., H.R.), Aurora St Luke's Medical Center, Aurora Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53215; and Departments of Medicine, Surgery, and Physiology (H.R.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | | | | |
Collapse
|