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Afshar A, Khoradmehr A, Zare A, Basouli N, Keshtkar M, Nabipour I, Mahdipour M, Mahmoudpour M, Kaliyev AA, Mussin NM, Baspakova A, Tamadon A. Histological evaluation of renal progenitor/stem cells, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease, and molecular docking analysis of drug-receptor interactions. Tissue Cell 2024; 90:102527. [PMID: 39181089 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are prevalent and debilitating conditions with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation into the histological characteristics of renal progenitor/stem cells (RPCs), renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in CKD and ESRD patients. Additionally, we performed a molecular docking analysis to explore potential drug-receptor interactions involving common medications prescribed to CKD patients. Our histological examination revealed a noteworthy increase in the number of CD24- and CD133-positive cells in CKD and ESRD patients, representing RPCs. These cells are implicated in kidney repair and regeneration, underscoring their potential role in CKD management. Moreover, we observed an elevation in the number of EPCs within the kidneys of CKD and ESRD patients, suggesting a protective role of EPCs in kidney preservation. The molecular docking analysis unveiled intriguing insights into potential drug interventions. Notably, digoxin exhibited the highest in-silico binding affinity to numerous receptors associated with the functions of RPCs, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and EPCs, emphasizing the potential multifaceted effects of this cardiac glycoside in CKD patients. Other drugs, including apixaban, glimepiride, and glibenclamide, also displayed strong in-silico affinities to specific receptors, indicating their potential influence on various renal cell functions. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the histological alterations in renal cell populations in CKD and ESRD patients and underscores the potential roles of RPCs and EPCs in kidney repair and preservation. The molecular docking analysis reveals the complex interactions between common drugs and renal cells, suggesting the need for further in-vitro and in-vivo research to fully understand these relationships. These findings contribute to our understanding of CKD and offer new avenues for research into potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Afshar
- Student Research Committee, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | | | - Nahid Basouli
- Student Research Committee, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | | | - Iraj Nabipour
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mahmoudpour
- The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Asset A Kaliyev
- General Surgery, West-Kazakhstan Medical University named after Marat Ospanov, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Nadiar M Mussin
- General Surgery, West-Kazakhstan Medical University named after Marat Ospanov, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Akmaral Baspakova
- Department for Scientific Work, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Amin Tamadon
- PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran; Department of Natural Sciences, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan; Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Popa MA, Mihai CM, Șuică VI, Antohe F, Dubey RK, Leeners B, Simionescu M. Dihydrotestosterone Augments the Angiogenic and Migratory Potential of Human Endothelial Progenitor Cells by an Androgen Receptor-Dependent Mechanism. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4862. [PMID: 38732080 PMCID: PMC11084206 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094862] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a critical role in cardiovascular regeneration. Enhancement of their native properties would be highly beneficial to ensuring the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. As androgens have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, we hypothesized that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) could also influence EPC-mediated repair processes. To evaluate this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of DHT on cultured human EPCs' proliferation, viability, morphology, migration, angiogenesis, gene and protein expression, and ability to integrate into cardiac tissue. The results showed that DHT at different concentrations had no cytotoxic effect on EPCs, significantly enhanced the cell proliferation and viability and induces fast, androgen-receptor-dependent formation of capillary-like structures. DHT treatment of EPCs regulated gene expression of androgen receptors and the genes and proteins involved in cell migration and angiogenesis. Importantly, DHT stimulation promoted EPC migration and the cells' ability to adhere and integrate into murine cardiac slices, suggesting it has a role in promoting tissue regeneration. Mass spectrometry analysis further highlighted the impact of DHT on EPCs' functioning. In conclusion, DHT increases the proliferation, migration, and androgen-receptor-dependent angiogenesis of EPCs; enhances the cells' secretion of key factors involved in angiogenesis; and significantly potentiates cellular integration into heart tissue. The data offer support for potential therapeutic applications of DHT in cardiovascular regeneration and repair processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirel Adrian Popa
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.P.); (C.M.M.); (V.I.Ș.); (F.A.)
| | - Cristina Maria Mihai
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.P.); (C.M.M.); (V.I.Ș.); (F.A.)
| | - Viorel Iulian Șuică
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.P.); (C.M.M.); (V.I.Ș.); (F.A.)
| | - Felicia Antohe
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.P.); (C.M.M.); (V.I.Ș.); (F.A.)
| | - Raghvendra K. Dubey
- Department for Reproductive Endocrinology, University Zurich, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland; (R.K.D.); (B.L.)
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department for Reproductive Endocrinology, University Zurich, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland; (R.K.D.); (B.L.)
| | - Maya Simionescu
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.P.); (C.M.M.); (V.I.Ș.); (F.A.)
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Feng Y, Huang Z, Ma X, Zong X, Wu CY, Lee RH, Lin HW, Hamblin MR, Zhang Q. Activation of testosterone-androgen receptor mediates cerebrovascular protection by photobiomodulation treatment in photothrombosis-induced stroke rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14574. [PMID: 38421088 PMCID: PMC10851319 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Numerous epidemiological studies have reported a link between low testosterone levels and an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease in men. However, there is ongoing controversy surrounding testosterone replacement therapy due to potential side effects. PBMT has been demonstrated to improve cerebrovascular function and promote testosterone synthesis in peripheral tissues. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms that could connect PBMT with testosterone and vascular function in the brain of photothrombosis (PT)-induced stroke rats remain largely unknown. METHODS We measured behavioral performance, cerebral blood flow (CBF), vascular permeability, and the expression of vascular-associated and apoptotic proteins in PT-induced stroke rats treated with flutamide and seven consecutive days of PBM treatment (350 mW, 808 nM, 2 min/day). To gain further insights into the mechanism of PBM on testosterone synthesis, we used testosterone synthesis inhibitors to study their effects on bEND.3 cells. RESULTS We showed that PT stroke caused a decrease in cerebrovascular testosterone concentration, which was significantly increased by 7-day PBMT (808 nm, 350 mW/cm2 , 42 J/cm2 ). Furthermore, PBMT significantly increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) and the expression of vascular-associated proteins, while inhibiting vascular permeability and reducing endothelial cell apoptosis. This ultimately mitigated behavioral deficits in PT stroke rats. Notably, treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide reversed the beneficial effects of PBMT. Cellular experiments confirmed that PBMT inhibited cell apoptosis and increased vascular-associated protein expression in brain endothelial cell line (bEnd.3) subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). However, these effects were inhibited by flutamide. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that PBMT-induced testosterone synthesis in bEnd.3 cells was partly mediated by 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 5 (17β-HSD5). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence that PBMT attenuates cerebrovascular injury and behavioral deficits associated with testosterone/AR following ischemic stroke. Our findings suggest that PBMT may be a promising alternative approach for managing cerebrovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Feng
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Zhihai Huang
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Xiaohui Ma
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Xuemei Zong
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Celeste Yin‐Chieh Wu
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Reggie Hui‐Chao Lee
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Hung Wen Lin
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Wellman Center for PhotomedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
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Abi-Ghanem C, Robison LS, Zuloaga KL. Androgens' effects on cerebrovascular function in health and disease. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:35. [PMID: 32605602 PMCID: PMC7328272 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens affect the cerebral vasculature and may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. Men are at a greater risk for stroke and vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) compared to women throughout much of the lifespan. The cerebral vasculature is a target for direct androgen actions, as it expresses several sex steroid receptors and metabolizing enzymes. Androgens’ actions on the cerebral vasculature are complex, as they have been shown to have both protective and detrimental effects, depending on factors such as age, dose, and disease state. When administered chronically, androgens are shown to be pro-angiogenic, promote vasoconstriction, and influence blood-brain barrier permeability. In addition to these direct effects of androgens on the cerebral vasculature, androgens also influence other vascular risk factors that may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. In men, low androgen levels have been linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, which greatly increase the risk of stroke and VCID. Thus, a better understanding of androgens’ interactions with the cerebral vasculature under physiological and pathological conditions is of key importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charly Abi-Ghanem
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Lisa S Robison
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Kristen L Zuloaga
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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Motamer M, Haghjooy Javanmard S, Mortazavi ZS, Bahrani S. Evaluation the effect of testosterone on the number of endothelial progenitor cells and amount of SDF-1α, PDGF, bFGF, and NO. Int J Prev Med 2020; 10:214. [PMID: 31929861 PMCID: PMC6941377 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_79_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent therapeutic advances in cardiovascular disease, thanks to the discovery of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and nitric oxide (NO) play a role in migration, homing, and differentiation of EPCs into mature endothelial cells. The incidence of cardiovascular disease is higher in men than in women. This fact suggests the influence of sex hormones on incidence of cardiovascular disease. Methods: Twenty-four female wistar rats weighing 160–180 g were randomly divided into four groups (N = 6): 1. sham-treated by sesame oil, 2. ovariectomized (OVX)-treated by sesame oil, 3. OVX-treated by 10 μg/kg/day testosterone, and 4. OVX-treated by 100 μg/kg/day testosterone. After 21 days, the animals were euthanized and blood samples were saved for determination of EPC count and serum levels of SDF-1α, PDGF, bFGF, and NO production. Results: High-dose testosterone induced significant increase in EPC count in OVX rats (P < 0.05). Also 100 μg/kg/day testosterone increased serum level of SDF-1α more than OVX-treated by 10 μg/kg/day testosterone (P < 0.05). But 10 μg/kg/day testosterone increased significantly the serum level of PDGF >100 μg/kg/day testosterone-treated group (P < 0.05). The serum level of bFGF in sham-treated by sesame oil was equal with its concentration in OVX-treated by 100 μg/kg/day testosterone. And the serum concentration of NO production in testosterone-treated groups were significantly less than other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study suggests that testosterone might be effective on cardiovascular disease in females by increasing EPC count through SDF-1α and PDGF mechanisms which are some of the vascular healing factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Motamer
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Medical Student Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Sadat Mortazavi
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Medical Student Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Saeide Bahrani
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Medical Student Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Aminuddin A, Salamt N, Ahmad Fuad AF, Chin KY, Ugusman A, Soelaiman IN, Wan Ngah WZ. Vascular Dysfunction among Malaysian Men with Increased BMI: An Indication of Synergistic Effect of Free Testosterone and Inflammation. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2019; 55:E575. [PMID: 31500378 PMCID: PMC6780688 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55090575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Obesity is associated with poor vascular function and may lead to future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Obesity is also related to increased inflammation and a low testosterone level. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between inflammation, testosterone level, and vascular function among subjects with an increased body mass index (BMI) and to determine whether both low testosterone and high inflammation have synergistic effects towards vascular dysfunction. Materials and Methods: A total of 303 men aged 40-80 years were recruited from Klang Valley, Malaysia. Their height, weight, blood pressure (BP), lipid, blood glucose level, total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured. The carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (PWVCF) and augmentation index (AI) were also recorded as markers of vascular function. Results: The mean age of all the subjects was 54.46 ± 9.77 years. Subjects were divided into a low/normal body mass index (BMI) group (BMI < 25 kg/m2; NG, n = 154) and high BMI group (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2; OG, n = 149). The mean BMI for NG was 22.20 ± 1.94 kg/m2 while for OG was 28.87 ± 3.24 kg/m2 (p < 0.01). The level of TT (OG = 21.13 ± 6.44 versus NG = 16.18 ± 6.16 nmol/L, p < 0.01) and FT (OG = 0.34 ± 0.12 versus NG = 0.39 ± 0.11 nmol/L, p < 0.01) were reduced while the level of CRP [OG = 1.05 (2.80) versus NG = 0.50 (1.50) mmol/L, p = 0.01] was increased in OG compared to NG. PWVCF (OG = 8.55 ± 1.34 versus NG = 8.52 ± 1.42 m/s, p = 0.02) and AI (OG = 16.91% ± 6.00% versus 15.88% ± 5.58%, p < 0.01) were significantly increased in OG after adjustment for other CVD risk factors. The subjects that had both a low FT and an increased CRP had higher AI when compared to those with a high CRP and high FT (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The increased BMI was associated with vascular dysfunction, mediated by a low testosterone level and increased inflammation. Furthermore, having both conditions concurrently lead to higher vascular dysfunction. Weight loss, testosterone supplementation, and the anti-inflammatory agent may be beneficial for men to prevent vascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amilia Aminuddin
- Department of Physiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Norizam Salamt
- Department of Physiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ahmad Faiz Ahmad Fuad
- Department of Physiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Kok-Yong Chin
- Department of Pharmacology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Azizah Ugusman
- Department of Physiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ima Nirwana Soelaiman
- Department of Pharmacology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Zurinah Wan Ngah
- Department of Biochemistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Huang T, Wang G, Hu Y, Shi H, Wang K, Yin L, Peng B. Structural and functional abnormalities of penile cavernous endothelial cells result in erectile dysfunction at experimental autoimmune prostatitis rat. JOURNAL OF INFLAMMATION-LONDON 2019; 16:20. [PMID: 31372097 PMCID: PMC6659287 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-019-0224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background There is growing recognition of the association of CP/CPPS accompany with ED. However, the specific mechanism of action remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate structural and functional abnormalities of cavernous endothelial cells in EAP rat, which may result in the ED. Methods we use rat prostate protein extract supplemented with immunoadjuvant to induce EAP rat, ICP and MAP were measured and inflammatory factor infiltration, Akt, eNOS, AR, nNOS and iNOS in the corpus cavernosum were tested. Subsequently, the normal rat and EAP rat cavernosum endothelial cells were purified by MACS, and the metabolism, oxidative stress, MMP, Akt, eNOS, AR and iNOS were evaluated. Results The EAP rat model was successfully constructed. The ratio of max ICP/MAP in EAP rat was significantly lower and TNF-α infiltration in corpus cavernosum was significantly higher than normal rats. Besides, Akt, eNOS and AR were decreased, iNOS was significantly increased. The growth and metabolism of endothelial cells in the EAP rats corpus cavernosum decreased and inflammatory factor mRNA was increased and intracellular oxidative stress was also increased significantly. The MMP of EAP rats cavernosum endothelial cells decreased and the expression of Akt, eNOS and AR were also significantly decreased, iNOS was significantly increased. Conclusion The prostate suffer local inflammatory infiltrate and promotes cytokines infiltrated into corpus cavernosum caused the oxidative stress increases and the metabolism or MMP decreases. In addition, AR, Akt and eNOS expression and phosphorylation are also reduced, thereby inhibiting the diastolic function of the corpus cavernosum, resulting in decreased erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianrun Huang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Guangchun Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Hu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Shi
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Keyi Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Yin
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, NO 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 People's Republic of China
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Wen Y, Liu G, Zhang Y, Li H. MicroRNA-205 is associated with diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction via down-regulating the androgen receptor. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:3257-3270. [PMID: 30729682 PMCID: PMC6484320 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As a major class of regulatory genes in majority metazoans, microRNAs (miRs) play an important role in various diseases including diabetes mellitus (DM). Lack of androgens has previously been associated with DM-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). In addition, the biological functioning of androgen is mediated by androgen receptor (AR). Herein, we sought to investigate whether miRs participate in AR-associated DMED. Sprague-Dawlay rats were employed to establish DMED models. After modelling, levels of miR-205 and AR in their cavernous bodies were measured. The relationship between miR-205 and AR was verified using a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR-205 were investigated in concert with the treatment of mimics or inhibitors of miR-205, or AR overexpression in the cavernous smooth muscle cells (CSMCs) isolated from rats with DMED. Meanwhile, the effects of miR-205 and AR on cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated using MTT assay and flow cytometry respectively. Rats with DMED presented with increased miR-205 and decreased AR levels in the cavernous bodies. AR was identified as a target gene of miR-205. Down-regulation of miR-205 or up-regulation of AR could increase proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of CSMCs in addition to improvements in the erectile functioning of rats with DMED. In summary, miR-205 may contribute to the pathogenesis of DMED via down-regulation of AR expressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wen
- Department of EndocrinologyChina‐Japan Union Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Guohui Liu
- Department of CardiologyChina‐Japan Union Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of UrologyChina‐Japan Union Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Hai Li
- Department of UrologyChina‐Japan Union Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
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9
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Chen Z, Qureshi AR, Brismar TB, Ripsweden J, Haarhaus M, Barany P, Heimburger O, Lindholm B, Stenvinkel P. Differences in association of lower bone mineral density with higher coronary calcification in female and male end-stage renal disease patients. BMC Nephrol 2019; 20:59. [PMID: 30777028 PMCID: PMC6380026 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-019-1235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Risk of cardiac events and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are predicted by coronary artery calcification (CAC) independently. It is not clear to what extent low bone mineral density (BMD) is associated with higher risk of CAC and if sex interacts. We investigated the sex-specific associations of CAC score with total body BMD (tBMD) as well as with BMD of different skeletal sub-regions. Methods In 174 ESRD patients, median age 57 (10th–90th percentiles 29–75) years, 63% males, BMD (measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; DXA), CAC score (measured by cardiac CT) and circulating inflammatory biomarkers were analysed. Results A total of 104 (60%) patients with CAC > 100 AUs were older, had higher prevalence of both clinical CVD and diabetes, higher level of high sensitivity C-reactive protein, tumour necrosis factor, interleukin-6 and lower T-score of tBMD. Female patients had significantly lower tBMD and BMD of all skeletal sub-regions, except head, than male patients. Female patients with high CAC (> 100 AUs) had significantly decreased T-score of tBMD, and lower BMD of arms, legs than those low CAC (≤ 100 AUs); elevated CAC score were associated with tBMD, T-score, Z-score of tBMD and BMD of arms and legs, while no such differences was observed in males. Multivariate generalized linear model (GLM) analysis adjusted for age, diabetes and hsCRP showed that in females per SD higher CAC score (1057 AUs) was predicted by either per SD (0.13 g/cm2) lower tBMD or per SD (0.17 g/cm2) lower BMD at legs. No such associations were found in male ESRD patients. Conclusions In female, but not male, lower BMD, in particular sub-regions of legs, was associated with higher CAC score independently. Low BMD has the potential to identify increased risk for high CAC score in ESRD patients. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12882-019-1235-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Abdul Rashid Qureshi
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torkel B Brismar
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonaz Ripsweden
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathias Haarhaus
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Barany
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olof Heimburger
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Lindholm
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Aversa A, Duca Y, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Androgen Deficiency and Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Expression Changes in Aging Male: Therapeutic Implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:225. [PMID: 31110491 PMCID: PMC6499191 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The age-related decline of serum T occurs in ~20-30% of adult men and it is today defined as late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). In the elderly, such decline becomes more prevalent (up to 60%) and shows-up with erectile dysfunction (ED) and hypoactive sexual desire. A large body of experimental evidences have shown that the combination of T replacement therapy (TRT) and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) is, usually, effective in restoring erectile function in patients with LOH and ED who have not responded to monotherapy for sexual disturbances. In fact, PDE5is potentiate the action of nitric oxide (NO) produced by endothelial cells, resulting in a vasodilator effect, while T facilitates PDE5i effects by increasing the expression of PDE5 in corpora cavernosa. Meta-analytic data have recognized to PDE5i a protective role on the cardiovascular health in patients with decreased left ventricular ejection fraction. In addition, several studies have shown pleiotropic beneficial effects of these drugs throughout the body (i.e., on bones, urogenital tract and cerebral, metabolic, and cardiovascular levels). TRT itself is able to decrease endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation, thus lowering the cardiovascular risk. Furthermore, untreated hypogonadism could be the cause of PDE5i ineffectiveness especially in the elderly. For these reasons, aging men complaining ED who have LOH should undergo TRT before or at the moment when PDE5i treatment is started.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ylenia Duca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Eugenio Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sandro La Vignera
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11
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Lam YT, Lecce L, Yuen GSC, Wise SG, Handelsman DJ, Ng MKC. Androgen action augments ischemia-induced, bone marrow progenitor cell-mediated vasculogenesis. Int J Biol Sci 2018; 14:1985-1992. [PMID: 30585262 PMCID: PMC6299365 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.27378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow-derived progenitor cell-mediated vasculogenesis is a key process for vascular repair and regeneration. However, the role of androgens in the mechanism of ischemia-induced vasculogenesis remains unclear. In this study, a gender-mismatch murine bone marrow transplant model was used to allow tissue tracking of transplanted cells. Bone marrow from 2-month-old male mice was transplanted into irradiated age-matched female recipients. Following the transplantation, ovariectomized female recipients were subjected to unilateral hindlimb ischemia and immediately implanted with either dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or placebo pellets. Laser Doppler perfusion imaging revealed that DHT significantly augmented blood flow recovery, with increased capillary density compared to placebo-treated female recipient controls. Flow cytometry analysis showed that DHT modulated vasculogenesis by increasing Sca1+/CXC4+ progenitor cell production in bone marrow and spleen and enhancing cell mobilization in circulating blood following hindlimb ischemia. Bone marrow cell homing was examined by detecting expression levels of male-specific SRY gene in the ischemic female tissues. DHT treatment promoted bone marrow cell homing to ischemic tissue shown by significantly higher SRY expression compared to placebo-treated females as well as reduced apoptotic features in DHT-treated females, including increased Bcl-2 expression, reduced Bax levels and decreased TUNEL staining. In conclusion, the gender-mismatched bone marrow transplant study shows that androgens directly enhance bone marrow cell-mediated vasculogenesis that contributes to ischemia-induced neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuen Ting Lam
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney NSW, 2042 Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Laura Lecce
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney NSW, 2042 Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Gloria S C Yuen
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney NSW, 2042 Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Steven G Wise
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney NSW, 2042 Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital NSW 2139 Australia
| | - Martin K C Ng
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney NSW, 2042 Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.,Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown NSW Australia 2050
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12
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Rasheed A, Tsai R, Cummins CL. Loss of the Liver X Receptors Disrupts the Balance of Hematopoietic Populations, With Detrimental Effects on Endothelial Progenitor Cells. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:JAHA.117.007787. [PMID: 29739800 PMCID: PMC6015321 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.007787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background The liver X receptors (LXRs; α/β) are nuclear receptors known to regulate cholesterol homeostasis and the production of select hematopoietic populations. The objective of this study was to determine the importance of LXRs and a high‐fat high‐cholesterol diet on global hematopoiesis, with special emphasis on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), a vasoreparative cell type that is derived from bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells. Methods and Results Wild‐type and LXR double‐knockout (Lxrαβ−/−) mice were fed a Western diet (WD) to increase plasma cholesterol levels. In WD‐fed Lxrαβ−/− mice, flow cytometry and complete blood cell counts revealed that hematopoietic stem cells, a myeloid progenitor, and mature circulating myeloid cells were increased; EPC numbers were significantly decreased. Hematopoietic stem cells from WD‐fed Lxrαβ−/− mice showed increased cholesterol content, along with increased myeloid colony formation compared with chow‐fed mice. In contrast, EPCs from WD‐fed Lxrαβ−/− mice also demonstrated increased cellular cholesterol content that was associated with greater expression of the endothelial lineage markers Cd144 and Vegfr2, suggesting accelerated differentiation of the EPCs. Treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with conditioned medium collected from these EPCs increased THP‐1 monocyte adhesion. Increased monocyte adhesion to conditioned medium–treated endothelial cells was recapitulated with conditioned medium from Lxrαβ−/−EPCs treated with cholesterol ex vivo, suggesting cholesterol is the main component of the WD inducing EPC dysfunction. Conclusions LXRs are crucial for maintaining the balance of hematopoietic cells in a hypercholesterolemic environment and for mitigating the negative effects of cholesterol on EPC differentiation/secretome changes that promote monocyte‐endothelial adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil Rasheed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ricky Tsai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn L Cummins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Banting and Best Diabetes Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Heart and Stroke Richard Lewar Centre of Excellence in Cardiovascular Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Swerdloff RS, Dudley RE, Page ST, Wang C, Salameh WA. Dihydrotestosterone: Biochemistry, Physiology, and Clinical Implications of Elevated Blood Levels. Endocr Rev 2017; 38:220-254. [PMID: 28472278 PMCID: PMC6459338 DOI: 10.1210/er.2016-1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Benefits associated with lowered serum DHT levels after 5α-reductase inhibitor (5AR-I) therapy in men have contributed to a misconception that circulating DHT levels are an important stimulus for androgenic action in target tissues (e.g., prostate). Yet evidence from clinical studies indicates that intracellular concentrations of androgens (particularly in androgen-sensitive tissues) are essentially independent of circulating levels. To assess the clinical significance of modest elevations in serum DHT and the DHT/testosterone (T) ratio observed in response to common T replacement therapy, a comprehensive review of the published literature was performed to identify relevant data. Although the primary focus of this review is about DHT in men, we also provide a brief overview of DHT in women. The available published data are limited by the lack of large, well-controlled studies of long duration that are sufficiently powered to expose subtle safety signals. Nonetheless, the preponderance of available clinical data indicates that modest elevations in circulating levels of DHT in response to androgen therapy should not be of concern in clinical practice. Elevated DHT has not been associated with increased risk of prostate disease (e.g., cancer or benign hyperplasia) nor does it appear to have any systemic effects on cardiovascular disease safety parameters (including increased risk of polycythemia) beyond those commonly observed with available T preparations. Well-controlled, long-term studies of transdermal DHT preparations have failed to identify safety signals unique to markedly elevated circulating DHT concentrations or signals materially different from T.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald S Swerdloff
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California 90502
| | | | - Stephanie T Page
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Nutrition, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Christina Wang
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California 90502
- UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California 90509
| | - Wael A Salameh
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California 90502
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14
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Androgen actions on endothelium functions and cardiovascular diseases. JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC CARDIOLOGY : JGC 2016; 13:183-96. [PMID: 27168746 PMCID: PMC4854959 DOI: 10.11909/j.issn.1671-5411.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The roles of androgens on cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology are controversial as both beneficial and detrimental effects have been reported. Although the reasons for this discrepancy are unclear, multiple factors such as genetic and epigenetic variation, sex-specificity, hormone interactions, drug preparation and route of administration may contribute. Recently, growing evidence suggests that androgens exhibit beneficial effects on cardiovascular function though the mechanism remains to be elucidated. Endothelial cells (ECs) which line the interior surface of blood vessels are distributed throughout the circulatory system, and play a crucial role in cardiovascular function. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are considered an indispensable element for the reconstitution and maintenance of an intact endothelial layer. Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an initiating step in development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The modulation of endothelial functions by androgens through either genomic or nongenomic signal pathways is one possible mechanism by which androgens act on the cardiovascular system. Obtaining insight into the mechanisms by which androgens affect EC and EPC functions will allow us to determine whether androgens possess beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. This in turn may be critical in the prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. This article seeks to review recent progress in androgen regulation of endothelial function, the sex-specificity of androgen actions, and its clinical applications in the cardiovascular system.
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15
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Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication of diabetes, affecting up to 75% of all diabetic men. Although the aetiology of diabetic ED is multifactorial, endothelial dysfunction is recognized as a mainstay in the pathophysiology of the disease. Endothelial dysfunction is induced by the detrimental actions of high glucose levels and increased oxidative stress on endothelial cells that make up the vascular lining. Besides directly injuring the endothelium, diabetes might also hamper vascular repair mechanisms of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. These states exacerbate and maintain endothelial dysfunction, impairing vasorelaxation events and cavernosal blood perfusion, which are crucial for normal erectile function.
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16
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Yoshida S, Ikeda Y, Aihara KI. Roles of the Androgen – Androgen Receptor System in Vascular Angiogenesis. J Atheroscler Thromb 2016; 23:257-65. [DOI: 10.5551/jat.31047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sumiko Yoshida
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School
| | - Yasumasa Ikeda
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School
| | - Ken-ichi Aihara
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School
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17
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Androgen Modulates Functions of Endothelial Progenitor Cells through Activated Egr1 Signaling. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:7057894. [PMID: 26697079 PMCID: PMC4677258 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7057894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Researches show that androgens have important effects on migration of endothelial cells and endothelial protection in coronary heart disease. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) as a progenitor cell type that can differentiate into endothelial cells, have a critical role in angiogenesis and endothelial protection. The relationship between androgen and the functions of EPCs has animated much interest and controversy. In this study, we investigated the angiogenic and migratory functions of EPCs after treatment by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and the molecular mechanisms as well. We found that DHT treatment enhanced the incorporation of EPCs into tubular structures formed by HUVECs and the migratory activity of EPCs in the transwell assay dose dependently. Moreover, microarray analysis was performed to explore how DHT changes the gene expression profiles of EPCs. We found 346 differentially expressed genes in androgen-treated EPCs. Angiogenesis-related genes like Egr-1, Vcan, Efnb2, and Cdk2ap1 were identified to be regulated upon DHT treatment. Furthermore, the enhanced angiogenic and migratory abilities of EPCs after DHT treatment were inhibited by Egr1-siRNA transfection. In conclusion, our findings suggest that DHT markedly enhances the vessel forming ability and migration capacity of EPCs. Egr1 signaling may be a possible pathway in this process.
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18
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Maiorino MI, Bellastella G, Petrizzo M, Della Volpe E, Orlando R, Giugliano D, Esposito K. Circulating endothelial progenitor cells in type 1 diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction. Endocrine 2015; 49:415-21. [PMID: 25411101 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-014-0478-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are bone marrow-derived stem cells able to migrate to sites of damaged endothelium and differentiate into endothelial cells, thereby contributing to vascular repair. Recent studies demonstrated a reduction of EPCs in patients with diabetes mellitus or erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim of this study was to evaluate the circulating levels of different EPCs phenotypes and their relation with testosterone levels in young type 1 diabetic patients with ED. We studied 118 consecutively type 1 diabetic patients and 60 age-matched healthy controls. Erectile function was assessed by completing the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and EPCs levels by flow cytometry. Testosterone concentrations were evaluated in all the study population. We identified 38 diabetic patients with ED (Group 1) and 80 patients without ED (Group 2). CD34+KDR+CD133+ cells were significantly lower in patients in Group 1 as compared with those in Group 2 [median and interquartile range, n/10(6) events, 12 (6-16) vs. 18 (13-22), P < 0.001)]. In all participants in the study, there was a significant correlation between circulating CD34+KDR+CD133+ cells and testosterone levels (r = 0.410, P < 0.001), which was highest in Group 1, intermediate in Group 2, and lowest in Group 3 (controls). There was a significant correlation between IIEF-5 score and both CD34+KDR+ (r = 0.459, P = 0.003) and CD34+KDR+CD133+ (r = 0.316, P = 0.050) cells among patients of Group 1, as well as between testosterone levels and most of the EPCs phenotypes. Finally, multivariate regression analysis identified levels of circulating CD34+KDR+ cells as an independent risk factor for ED (β-coefficient 0.348, P = 0.007). In conclusion, type 1 diabetic patients with ED show reduced levels of CD34+KDR+CD133+ cells, whose number correlates with IIEF. Further studies are needed to fully understand the exact mechanisms by which testosterone regulates vascular homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ida Maiorino
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic Science and Geriatrics, University Hospital at Second University of Naples, Piazza L. Miraglia n° 2, 80138, Naples, Italy,
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19
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Pabón MM, Ji X, Fernandez JW, Borlongan CV. Gender-linked stem cell alterations in stroke and postpartum depression. CNS Neurosci Ther 2015; 21:348-56. [PMID: 25399760 PMCID: PMC4376590 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a significant unmet clinical need. The current stroke treatment of tissue plasminogen activator is limited to the very acute 4.5 h after disease onset which benefits only less than 3% of ischemic stroke patients. Our overarching hypothesis advances the notion that gender, which has been established as a comorbidity factor of stroke, plays a key role in regenerative medicine, in particular stem cell therapy. We hypothesize that gender is a key factor in culture-induced stemness of adult stem cells. Our goal is to provide new evidence supporting gender effects on stroke and stem cells for the purpose of enhancing our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease and developing novel stem cell-based therapeutics targeting gender-relevant stress hormones as manifested in a stroke-postpartum depression paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mibel M. Pabón
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain RepairMorsani College of MedicineUniversity of South Florida College of MedicineTampaFLUSA
| | - Xun‐Ming Ji
- Department of NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jamie Winderbaum Fernandez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral NeurosciencesMorsani College of MedicineUniversity of South Florida College of MedicineTampaFLUSA
| | - Cesar V. Borlongan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain RepairMorsani College of MedicineUniversity of South Florida College of MedicineTampaFLUSA
- Department of NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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20
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Torres-Estay V, Carreño DV, San Francisco IF, Sotomayor P, Godoy AS, Smith GJ. Androgen receptor in human endothelial cells. J Endocrinol 2015; 224:R131-7. [PMID: 25563353 PMCID: PMC4700832 DOI: 10.1530/joe-14-0611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) is a ligand-inducible transcription factor, and a member of the steroid-thyroid-retinoid receptor superfamily, that mediates the biological effects of androgens in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes. AR expression was identified in vascular cells nearly 20 years ago, and recent research has shown that AR mediates a variety of actions of androgens in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. In this mini-review, we review evidence indicating the importance of AR in human endothelial cell (HUVEC) homeostatic and pathogenic processes. Although a role for AR in the modulation of HUVEC biology is evident, the molecular mechanisms by which AR regulates HUVEC homeostasis and disease processes are not fully understood. Understanding these mechanisms could provide critical insights into the processes of pathogenesis of diseases ranging from cardiovascular disease to cancer that are major causes of human morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Torres-Estay
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Daniela V Carreño
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Ignacio F San Francisco
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Paula Sotomayor
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Alejandro S Godoy
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Gary J Smith
- Departamento de FisiologíaUrologíaPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, ChileCenter for Integrative Medicine and Innovative SciencesUniversidad Andrés Bello, Santiago de Chile, ChileDepartment of UrologyRoswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
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21
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Liu R, Ding L, Yu MH, Wang HQ, Li WC, Cao Z, Zhang P, Yao BC, Tang J, Ke Q, Huang TZ. Effects of dihydrotestosterone on adhesion and proliferation via PI3-K/Akt signaling in endothelial progenitor cells. Endocrine 2014; 46:634-43. [PMID: 24190051 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-013-0081-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The protective effects of male hormones on the cardiovascular system are still in dispute. There is now ample evidence that testosterone level is negatively correlated to the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease in men. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a vital role in endothelial healing and vascular integrity, which are useful for promoting cardiovascular health. In this study, we investigated the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a non-aromatizable androgen, on human EPC function and the activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt pathway in vitro. EPCs were incubated with a series of concentrations (1, 10, or 100 nmol/L in DMSO) of DHT for 24 h or with 10 nmol/L DHT for different time (6, 12, 24, 48 h). EPC adhesion and proliferation and the activation of Akt were assayed by cell counting, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation assay, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and Western blot analysis. Our data demonstrated that DHT significantly increased the proliferative activity and adhesive ability of EPCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner, maximum at 10 nmol/L, 24 h (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis revealed that DHT promoted the phosphorylation of Akt, and the effects of different concentrations of DHT on Akt phosphorylation were consistent with those on EPC proliferation and adhesion (p < 0.05). However, the enhancing effects of DHT on EPCs decreased with administration of the pharmacological PI3-K blocker LY294002 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, DHT can modulate EPC proliferation and adhesion and the PI3-K/Akt pathway plays an important role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Hubei University of Medicine, 30 People's South Road, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
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22
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Traish AM, Galoosian A. Androgens modulate endothelial function and endothelial progenitor cells in erectile physiology. Korean J Urol 2013; 54:721-31. [PMID: 24255752 PMCID: PMC3830963 DOI: 10.4111/kju.2013.54.11.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) increases with age and cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes. These risk factors are thought to contribute to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, thus contributing to the pathophysiology of ED. The role of the endothelium in regulating erectile physiology is well established. However, the role of androgens in modulating endothelial function and endothelial repair mechanisms subsequent to vascular injury in erectile tissue remains a subject of intensive research. The clinical and preclinical evidence discussed in this review suggests that androgens regulate endothelial function and also play an important role in the development and maturation of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), which are thought to play a critical role in repair of endothelial injury in vascular beds. In this review, we discuss the data available on the effects of androgens on endothelial function and EPCs in the repair of vascular injury. Indeed, more research is needed to fully understand the molecular and cellular basis of androgen action in regulating the development, differentiation, maturation, migration, and homing of EPCs to the site of injury. A better understanding of these processes will be critical to the development of new therapeutic approaches to the treatment of vascular ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. ; Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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23
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Park BJ, Shim JY, Lee YJ, Lee JH, Lee HR. Inverse relationship between bioavailable testosterone and subclinical coronary artery calcification in non-obese Korean men. Asian J Androl 2012; 14:612-5. [PMID: 22522505 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2012.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Although low testosterone levels in men have been associated with high risk for cardiovascular disease, little is known about the association between male sex hormones and subclinical coronary disease in men with apparently low cardiometabolic risk. This study was performed to investigate the association between male sex hormones and subclinical coronary artery calcification measured as coronary calcium score in non-obese Korean men. We examined the relationship of total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, bioavailable testosterone and free testosterone with coronary calcium score in 291 non-obese Korean men (mean age: 52.8±9.3 years) not having a history of cardiovascular disease. Using multiple linear regression, we evaluated associations between log (sex hormone) levels and log (coronary calcium score) after adjusting for confounding variables in 105 men with some degree of coronary calcification defined as coronary calcium score ≥ 1. In multiple linear regression analysis, bioavailable testosterone was inversely associated with coronary calcium score (P=0.046) after adjusting for age, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, regular exercise, mean blood pressure, resting heart rate, C-reactive protein, fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, hypertension medication and hyperlipidemia medication, whereas total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin and free testosterone were not (P=0.674, P=0.121 and P=0.102, respectively). Our findings indicate that bioavailable testosterone is inversely associated with the degree of subclinical coronary artery calcification in non-obese men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoung-Jin Park
- Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 135-720, Korea
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Lopes RAM, Neves KB, Carneiro FS, Tostes RC. Testosterone and vascular function in aging. Front Physiol 2012; 3:89. [PMID: 22514541 PMCID: PMC3322529 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 03/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen receptors are widely distributed in several tissues, including vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Through classic cytosolic androgen receptors or membrane receptors, testosterone induces genomic and non-genomic effects, respectively. Testosterone interferes with the vascular function by increasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and arterial thickness. Experimental evidence indicates that sex steroid hormones, such as testosterone modulate the synthesis and bioavailability of NO and, consequently, endothelial function, which is key for a healthy vasculature. Of interest, aging itself is accompanied by endothelial and vascular smooth muscle dysfunction. Aging-associated decline of testosterone levels is accompanied by age-related diseases, such as metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, indicating that very low levels of androgens may contribute to cardiovascular dysfunction observed in these age-related disorders or, in other words, that testosterone may have beneficial effects in the cardiovascular system. However, testosterone seems to play a negative role in the severity of renal disease. In this mini-review, we briefly comment on the interplay between aging and testosterone levels, the vascular actions of testosterone and its implications for vascular aging. Renal effects of testosterone and the use of testosterone to prevent vascular dysfunction in elderly are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhéure A M Lopes
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, Ribeirao Preto São Paulo, Brazil
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25
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Fahed AC, Gholmieh JM, Azar ST. Connecting the Lines between Hypogonadism and Atherosclerosis. Int J Endocrinol 2012; 2012:793953. [PMID: 22518131 PMCID: PMC3296205 DOI: 10.1155/2012/793953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies show that atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and point to gender differences with ageing males being at highest risk. Atherosclerosis is a complex process that has several risk factors and mediators. Hypogonadism is a commonly undiagnosed disease that has been associated with many of the events, and risk factors leading to atherosclerosis. The mechanistic relations between testosterone levels, atherosclerotic events, and risk factors are poorly understood in many instances, but the links are clear. In this paper, we summarize the research journey that explains the link between hypogonadism, each of the atherosclerotic events, and risk factors. We look into the different areas from which lessons could be learned, including epidemiological studies, animal and laboratory experiments, studies on androgen deprivation therapy patients, and studies on testosterone-treated patients. We finish by providing recommendations for the clinician and needs for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akl C. Fahed
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joanna M. Gholmieh
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Sami T. Azar
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, P.O. Box 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon
- *Sami T. Azar:
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Aversa A, Bruzziches R, Francomano D, Natali M, Lenzi A. Testosterone and phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors: new strategy for preventing endothelial damage in internal and sexual medicine? Ther Adv Urol 2011; 1:179-97. [PMID: 21789066 DOI: 10.1177/1756287209344992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal vascular endothelium is essential for the synthesis and release of substances affecting vascular tone (e.g. nitric oxide; NO), cell adhesion (e.g. endothelins, interleukins), and the homeostasis of clotting and fibrinolysis (e.g. plasminogen inhibitors, von Willebrand factor). The degeneration of endothelial integrity promotes adverse events (AEs) leading to increased atherogenesis and to the development of vascular systemic and penile end-organ disease. Testosterone (T) is an important player in the regulation of vascular tone through non-genomic actions exerted via blockade of extracellular-calcium entry or activation of potassium channels; also, adequate T concentrations are paramount for the regulation of phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) expression and finally, for the actions exerted by hydrogen sulphide, a gas involved in the alternative pathway controlling vasodilator responses in penile tissue. It is known that an age-related decline of serum T is reported in approximately 20 to 30% of men whereas T deficiency is reported in up to 50% of men with metabolic syndrome or diabetes. A number of laboratory and human studies have shown the combination of T and other treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED), such as PDE5 inhibitors, to be more beneficial in patients with ED and hypogonadism, who fail monotherapy for sexual disturbances.The aim of this review is to show evidence on the role of T and PDE5 inhibitors, alone or in combination, as potential boosters of endothelial function in internal medicine diseases associated with reduced T or NO bioavailability, i.e. metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, coronary artery disease, hyperhomocysteinemia, that share common risk factors with ED. Furthermore, the possibility of such a strategy to prevent endothelial dysfunction in men at increased cardiovascular risk is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Aversa
- Dip.to Fisiopatologia Medica, Room 37, Viale Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome Italy
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Castela A, Vendeira P, Costa C. Testosterone, endothelial health, and erectile function. ISRN ENDOCRINOLOGY 2011; 2011:839149. [PMID: 22363891 PMCID: PMC3262643 DOI: 10.5402/2011/839149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Experimental and clinical studies have reported that testosterone has a critical role in the maintenance of homeostatic and morphologic corpus cavernosum components, essential for normal erectile physiology. Although the exact mechanisms mediated by testosterone in erectile function are still under investigation, recent research has suggested an important role in the regulation of endothelial cell (EC) biological functions. Besides stimulating the production of EC mediators, testosterone is also thought to promote the vasculogenic reendothelialization process, mediated by bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells. Additionally, testosterone seems to modulate other erectile tissue components, including trabecular smooth muscle cells, nerve fibers, and tunica albuginea structure, all essential for the erectile process. This paper summarizes current data regarding testosterone-induced cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate penile tissue components, focusing particularly on the role of testosterone in endothelial health and erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Castela
- Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology of the University of Porto (IBMC-UP), Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
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Wehr E, Pilz S, Boehm BO, März W, Grammer T, Obermayer-Pietsch B. Low free testosterone is associated with heart failure mortality in older men referred for coronary angiography. Eur J Heart Fail 2011; 13:482-8. [PMID: 21339189 DOI: 10.1093/eurjhf/hfr007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Accumulating evidence suggests that androgen deficiency is associated with cardiovascular disease. We aimed at evaluating whether total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT) are associated with specific cardiovascular events. METHODS AND RESULTS We measured TT and sex-hormone-binding globulin levels in 2078 men who were routinely referred for coronary angiography between 1997 and 2000. Free testosterone was calculated according to Vermeulen. Main outcome measures were Cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) for sudden cardiac death, fatal myocardial infarction, death from congestive heart failure (CHF), as well as other cardiac deaths according to quartiles of TT and FT. The median follow-up time was 7.7 years. Multivariable adjusted HRs (with 95% confidence intervals) in the fourth compared with the first FT quartile and per 1 SD increase in FT for CHF mortality were 0.38 (0.17-0.87) and 0.37 (0.15-0.89), respectively. We observed no independent significant association of FT with sudden cardiac death, fatal myocardial infarction, or other cardiac death. There was no independent association of TT levels with cardiovascular events or cardiac disease. CONCLUSION Low levels of FT are independently associated with increased CHF mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Wehr
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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Abstract
Differences in cardiovascular disease outcomes between men and women have long been recognized and attributed, in part, to gender and sex steroids. Gender dimorphisms also exist with respect to the roles of progenitor and stem cells in post-ischemic myocardial and endothelial repair and regeneration. Understanding how these cells are influenced by donor gender and the recipient hormonal milieu may enable researchers to further account for the gender-related disparities in clinical outcomes as well as utilize the beneficial effects of these hormones to optimize transplanted cell function and survival. This review discusses (1) the cardiovascular effects of sex steroids (specifically estradiol and testosterone); (2) the therapeutic potentials of endothelial progenitor cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and embryonic stem cells; and (3) the direct effect of sex steroids on these cell types.
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Abstract
The beneficial or detrimental effects of androgens on the cardiovascular system are debated. Endothelial progenitor cells are bone-marrow-derived cells involved in endothelial healing and angiogenesis, which promote cardiovascular health. Oestrogens are potent stimulators of endothelial progenitor cells, and previous findings have indicated that androgens may improve the biology of these cells as well. In the present study, we show that testosterone and its active metabolite dihydrotestosterone exert no effects on the expansion and function of late endothelial progenitors isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy human adult males, whereas they positively modulate early ‘monocytic’ endothelial progenitor cells. In parallel, we show that castration in rats is followed by a decrease in circulating endothelial progenitor cells, but that testosterone and dihydrotestosterone replacement fails to restore endothelial progenitor cells towards normal levels. This is associated with persistently low oestrogen levels after androgen replacement in castrated rats. In a sample of 62 healthy middle-aged men, we show that circulating endothelial progenitor cell levels are more directly associated with oestradiol, rather than with testosterone, concentrations. In conclusion, our results collectively demonstrate that androgens exert no direct effects on endothelial progenitor cell biology in vitro and in vivo.
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Abstract
Male hypogonadism now has a new spectrum of complications. They are mainly cardiometabolic in nature. Low serum testosterone levels are a risk factor for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, inflammation and dyslipidemia. These metabolic and inflammatory complications are not without consequences. Recent studies have shown low serum testosterone levels to be an independent risk factor of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. It is time to welcome low serum testosterone levels as a cardiovascular risk factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maggio
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Ray R, Novotny NM, Crisostomo PR, Lahm T, Abarbanell A, Meldrum DR. Sex steroids and stem cell function. Mol Med 2008; 14:493-501. [PMID: 18475312 DOI: 10.2119/2008-00004.ray] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender dimorphisms exist in the pathogenesis of a variety of cardiovascular, cardiopulmonary, neurodegenerative, and endocrine disorders. Estrogens exert immense influence on myocardial remodeling following ischemic insult, partially through paracrine growth hormone production by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells. Estrogens also facilitate the mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells to the ischemic myocardium and enhance neovascularization at the ischemic border zone. Moreover, estrogens limit pathological myocardial remodeling through the inhibitory effects on the proliferation of the cardiac fibroblasts. Androgens also may stimulate endothelial progenitor cell migration from the bone marrow, yet the larger role of androgens in disease pathogenesis is not well characterized. The beneficial effects of sex steroids include alteration of lipid metabolism in preadipocytes, modulation of bone metabolism and skeletal maturation, and prevention of osteoporosis through their effects on osteogenic precursors. In an example of sex steroid-specific effects, neural stem cells exhibit enhanced proliferation in response to estrogens, whereas androgens mediate inhibitory effects on their proliferation. Although stem cells can offer significant therapeutic benefits in various cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, endocrine disorders, and disorders of bone metabolism, a greater understanding of sex hormones on diverse stem cell populations is required to improve their ultimate clinical efficacy. In this review, we focus on the effects of estrogen and testosterone on various stem and progenitor cell types, and their relevant intracellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinki Ray
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Ray R, Herring CM, Markel TA, Crisostomo PR, Wang M, Weil B, Lahm T, Meldrum DR. Deleterious effects of endogenous and exogenous testosterone on mesenchymal stem cell VEGF production. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2008; 294:R1498-503. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00897.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Modulating the paracrine effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) may be important for the treatment of ischemic myocardial tissue. In this regard, endogenous estrogen may enhance BMSC vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production. However, little information exists regarding the effect of testosterone on stem cell function. We hypothesized that 1) endogenous or exogenous estrogen will enhance stem cell production of VEGF and 2) endogenous or exogenous testosterone will inhibit BMSC VEGF production. BMSCs were collected from adult male, female, castrated male, and ovariectomized female rats. One hundred thousand cells were incubated with testosterone (1, 10, or 100 nM) or estrogen (0.15, 1.5, or 15 nM) for 48 h. Cell supernatants were collected, and VEGF was measured by ELISA. BMSCs harvested from castrated males, normal females, and ovariectomized females produced more VEGF compared with normal males. Castration was associated with the highest level (1,018 ± 98.26 pg/ml) of VEGF production by BMSCs, which was significantly more than that produced by BMSCs harvested from normal male and normal female animals. Exogenous testosterone significantly reduced VEGF production in BMSCs harvested from ovariectomized females in a dose-dependent manner. Exogenous estrogen did not alter BMSC VEGF production. These findings suggest that testosterone may work on BMSCs to decrease protective growth factor production and that effective removal of testosterone's deleterious effects via castration may prove to be beneficial in terms of protective factor production. By manipulating the mechanisms that BMSCs use to produce growth factors, we may be able to engineer stem cells to produce maximum growth factors during therapeutic use.
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