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Li L, Lin W, Wang Z, Huang R, Xia H, Li Z, Deng J, Ye T, Huang Y, Yang Y. Hormone Regulation in Testicular Development and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5805. [PMID: 38891991 PMCID: PMC11172568 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115805] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The testes serve as the primary source of androgens and the site of spermatogenesis, with their development and function governed by hormonal actions via endocrine and paracrine pathways. Male fertility hinges on the availability of testosterone, a cornerstone of spermatogenesis, while follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) signaling is indispensable for the proliferation, differentiation, and proper functioning of Sertoli and germ cells. This review covers the research on how androgens, FSH, and other hormones support processes crucial for male fertility in the testis and reproductive tract. These hormones are regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, which is either quiescent or activated at different stages of the life course, and the regulation of the axis is crucial for the development and normal function of the male reproductive system. Hormonal imbalances, whether due to genetic predispositions or environmental influences, leading to hypogonadism or hypergonadism, can precipitate reproductive disorders. Investigating the regulatory network and molecular mechanisms involved in testicular development and spermatogenesis is instrumental in developing new therapeutic methods, drugs, and male hormonal contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Wanqing Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Jingxian Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tao Ye
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (L.L.); (W.L.); (Z.W.); (R.H.); (H.X.); (Z.L.); (J.D.); (T.Y.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
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González-Flores O, Pfaus JG, Luna-Hernández A, Montes-Narváez O, Domínguez-Ordóñez R, Tecamachaltzi-Silvarán MB, García-Juárez M. Estradiol and progesterone-induced lordosis behavior is modulated by both the Kisspeptin receptor and melanin-concentrating hormone in estradiol benzoate-primed rats. Horm Behav 2022; 146:105257. [PMID: 36115135 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of estradiol benzoate (E2B) and progesterone (P) induces intense lordosis behavior in ovariectomized rats primed peripherally with E2B. The present study tested the hypothesis that the Kisspeptin (Kiss) and melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) pathways regulate female sexual behavior induced by these steroid hormones. In Experiment 1, we tested the relevance of the Kiss pathway by ICV infusion of its inhibitor, kiss-234, before administration of E2B or P in estrogen-primed rats. Lordosis induced by E2B alone or with the addition of P was reduced significantly at 30, 120, and 240 min. In Experiment 2, ICV infusion of MCH 30 min before E2B or P significantly reduced lordosis in rats primed with E2B alone. These data support the hypothesis that the Kiss and MCH pathways, which can release or modulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), are involved in E2B- and P-induced lordosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar González-Flores
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, México
| | - James G Pfaus
- Department of Psychology and Life Sciences, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Czech National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Ailyn Luna-Hernández
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, México; Maestría en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, México
| | - Omar Montes-Narváez
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, México; Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, México
| | - Raymundo Domínguez-Ordóñez
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, México; Licenciatura en Ingeniería Agronómica y Zootecnia, CRC, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, México
| | | | - Marcos García-Juárez
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, México.
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Gołyszny M, Obuchowicz E, Zieliński M. Neuropeptides as regulators of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activity and their putative roles in stress-induced fertility disorders. Neuropeptides 2022; 91:102216. [PMID: 34974357 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides being regulators of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, also affect the function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis by regulating gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion from hypothalamic neurons. Here, we review the available data on how neuropeptides affect HPG axis activity directly or indirectly via their influence on the HPA axis. The putative role of neuropeptides in stress-induced infertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, is also described. This review discusses both well-known neuropeptides (i.e., kisspeptin, Kp; oxytocin, OT; arginine-vasopressin, AVP) and more recently discovered peptides (i.e., relaxin-3, RLN-3; nesfatin-1, NEFA; phoenixin, PNX; spexin, SPX). For the first time, we present an up-to-date review of all published data regarding interactions between the aforementioned neuropeptide systems. The reviewed literature suggest new pathophysiological mechanisms leading to fertility disturbances that are induced by stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miłosz Gołyszny
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18 Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland.
| | - Ewa Obuchowicz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18 Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland.
| | - Michał Zieliński
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18 Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland.
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Shen P, Ji S, Li X, Yang Q, Xu B, Wong CKC, Wang L, Li L. LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation Caused mPOA-FSH/LH Disturbance and Impaired Testicular Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886085. [PMID: 35813649 PMCID: PMC9259990 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive function is key to the continuation of species and is under sophisticated regulation, challenged by various stressors including inflammation. In the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneal injection-induced acute systemic inflammation, male fecundity was compromised with decreased testosterone level, damaged spermatogenesis, and downregulations of testicular gene expression levels involved in steroidogenesis regulation and blood-testis barrier. It is also noteworthy that the testis is more sensitive to acute stress caused by LPS-induced systemic inflammation. LPS treatment resulted in lower testicular gene expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, and cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily B member 1 after LPS treatment, while no such decrease was found in the adrenal gland. In parallel to the significant decreases in testicular intercellular adhesion molecule 1, tight junction protein 1, and gap junction alpha-1 protein gene expression with LPS treatment, no decrease was found in the epididymis. In the brain, LPS treatment caused higher medial preoptic area (mPOA) activation in the hypothalamus, which is accompanied by elevated blood follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, suggesting a disturbed hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis function. Besides mPOA, brain c-fos mapping and quantitative analysis demonstrated a broad activation of brain nuclei by LPS, including the anterior cingulate cortex, lateral septum, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, basolateral amygdala, ventral tegmental area, lateral habenular nucleus, locus coeruleus, Barrington's nucleus, and the nucleus of the solitary tract, accompanied by abnormal animal behavior. Our data showed that LPS-induced inflammation caused not only local testicular damage but also a systemic disturbance at the brain-testis axis level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilei Shen
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuqin Ji
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xulin Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qingning Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bingxian Xu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Chris Kong Chu Wong
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
| | - Liping Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, Shenzhen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science–Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
| | - Lei Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, Shenzhen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science–Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
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Ultrastructural Evidence for Oxytocin and Oxytocin Receptor at the Spinal Dorsal Horn: Mechanism of Nociception Modulation. Neuroscience 2021; 475:117-126. [PMID: 34530103 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide involved in the inhibition of nociception transmission at spinal dorsal horn (SDH) level (the first station where the incoming peripheral signals is modulated). Electrophysiological, behavioral, and pharmacological data strongly support the role of this neuropeptide and its receptor (the oxytocin receptor, OTR) as a key endogenous molecule with analgesic properties. Briefly, current data showed that oxytocin release from the hypothalamus induces OTR activation at the SDH, inducing selective inhibition of the nociceptive Aδ- and C-fibers (probably peptidergic) activity, but not the activity of proprioceptive fibers (i.e. Aβ-fibers). The above inhibition could be a direct presynaptic mechanism, or a mechanism mediated by GABAergic interneurons. However, the exact anatomical localization of oxytocin and OTR remains unclear. In this context, the present study set out to analyze the role of OTRs, GABAergic cells and CGRP fibers in the SDH in rats by using electron microscopy. Ultrastructural analyses of the SDH tissue show that: (i) oxytocin and OTR are found in asymmetrical synapsis; (ii) OTR is found in GABAergic interneurons (near unmyelinated fibers), CGRPergic fibers and glial cells; (iii) whereas oxytocin is present in supraspinal descending projection fibers. These anatomical data strongly support the notion that oxytocin released at the SDH could presynaptically inhibit the nociceptive input from the peripheral primary afferent fibers. This inhibitory action could be direct or use a GABA interneuron. Furthermore, our findings that OTR is exhibited in glial tissue at the SDH requires further exploration in nociception assays.
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Domínguez-Ordoñez R, Garcia-Juárez M, Tapia-Hernández S, Luna-Hernández A, Galindo-Madrid ME, Tecamachaltzi-Silvarán MB, Hoffman KL, Pfaus JG, González-Flores O. Oxytocin induces lordosis behavior in female rats through the prostaglandin E2/GnRH signaling system. Horm Behav 2021; 136:105081. [PMID: 34710777 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of oxytocin (OT) induces robust lordosis behavior (lordosis quotient and lordosis intensity) in estrogen-primed rats. The present study explored the hypothesis that the OT-Prostaglandin E2-GnRH pathway (a pathway produced in astrocytes) is involved in the facilitation of lordosis behavior by icv infusion of OT (2 μg). In Experiment 1, we tested the involvement of the OT receptor (OTR) by infusion of the OTR antagonist, atosiban (ATO). OT-induced lordosis was significantly reduced at both 30 and 120 min by prior infusion of ATO. In Experiment 2, we studied the effects of aspirin (COX2 inhibitor) and ONO-AE3-208 (ONO; EP4 prostaglandin receptor antagonist) on OT-induced lordosis. Infusions of both compounds diminished OT-induced lordosis at both 120 and 240 min. In Experiment 3, the involvement of the GnRH-1 receptor inhibitor antide on OT-induced lordosis was evaluated. Antide significantly inhibited OT-induced lordosis at all times tested. These data indicate that the OT/PGE2/GnRH pathway is involved in the expression of OT-induced lordosis behavior, an effect that may be occurring directly in hypothalamic astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymundo Domínguez-Ordoñez
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Marcos Garcia-Juárez
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Sandra Tapia-Hernández
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Ailyn Luna-Hernández
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Miriam Eli Galindo-Madrid
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | | | - Kurt L Hoffman
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - James G Pfaus
- Department of Psychology and Life Sciences, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Czech National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Oscar González-Flores
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala-CINVESTAV, Tlaxcala, Mexico.
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Stadler B, Whittaker MR, Exintaris B, Middendorff R. Oxytocin in the Male Reproductive Tract; The Therapeutic Potential of Oxytocin-Agonists and-Antagonists. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:565731. [PMID: 33193084 PMCID: PMC7642622 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.565731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, the role of oxytocin and oxytocin-like agents (acting via the oxytocin receptor and belonging to the oxytocin-family) in the male reproductive tract is considered. Previous research (dating back over 60 years) is revised and connected with recently found aspects of the role oxytocin plays in male reproductive health. The local expression of oxytocin and its receptor in the male reproductive tract of different species is summarized. Colocalization and possible crosstalk to other agents and receptors and their resulting effects are discussed. The role of the newly reported oxytocin focused signaling pathways in the male reproductive tract, other than mediating contractility, is critically examined. The structure and effect of the most promising oxytocin-agonists and -antagonists are reviewed for their potential in treating male disorders with origins in the male reproductive tract such as prostate diseases and ejaculatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Stadler
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Michael R. Whittaker
- Drug Discovery Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Betty Exintaris
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
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Yang L, Comninos AN, Dhillo WS. Intrinsic links among sex, emotion, and reproduction. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:2197-2210. [PMID: 29619543 PMCID: PMC5948280 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2802-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 01/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Species survival is dependent on successful reproduction. This begins with a desire to mate, followed by selection of a partner, copulation and in monogamous mammals including humans, requires emotions and behaviours necessary to maintain partner bonds for the benefit of rearing young. Hormones are integral to all of these stages and not only mediate physiological and endocrine processes involved in reproduction, but also act as neuromodulators within limbic brain centres to facilitate the expression of innate emotions and behaviours required for reproduction. A significant body of work is unravelling the roles of several key hormones in the modulation of mood states and sexual behaviours; however, a full understanding of the integration of these intrinsic links among sexual and emotional brain circuits still eludes us. This review summarises the evidence to date and postulates future directions to identify potential psycho-neuroendocrine frameworks linking sexual and emotional brain processes with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Yang
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 ONN, UK
| | - Alexander N Comninos
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 ONN, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 ONN, UK.
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Anjum S, Anuradha A, Krishna A. A possible direct action of oxytocin on spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in pre-pubertal mouse. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12958. [PMID: 29363158 DOI: 10.1111/and.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of in vivo and in vitro treatments of oxytocin (OT) on the testis of pre-pubertal mice. The OT treatment produced significant changes in the spermatogenic and steroidogenic activity by increasing expression of OT-receptor in the testis of pre-pubertal mice. Treatment with OT showed increased proliferation of germ cells as indicated by increased number of spermatocytes and round spermatids. Dose-dependent increase in expression of PCNA, Bcl-2 and AR proteins was observed in the testis of OT-treated mice as compared with the control and further supports the role of OT in germ cell proliferation and survival. The pre-pubertal mice treated with increasing dose of OT showed significant increase in testosterone synthesis due to dose-dependent stimulatory effects on 3β-HSD activity and increased expression of STAR, LH-receptor (LH-R) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) proteins in the testis. The in vitro study has confirmed in vivo finding showing direct action of OT on testicular steroidogenesis. Thus, OT stimulates testicular spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis by directly acting on testis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Anjum
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - A Anuradha
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - A Krishna
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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10
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The role of the circadian clock system in physiology. Pflugers Arch 2018; 470:227-239. [PMID: 29302752 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-017-2103-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Life on earth is shaped by the 24-h rotation of our planet around its axes. To adapt behavior and physiology to the concurring profound but highly predictable changes, endogenous circadian clocks have evolved that drive 24-h rhythms in invertebrate and vertebrate species. At the molecular level, circadian clocks comprised a set of clock genes organized in a system of interlocked transcriptional-translational feedback loops. A ubiquitous network of cellular central and peripheral tissue clocks coordinates physiological functions along the day through activation of tissue-specific transcriptional programs. Circadian rhythms impact on diverse physiological processes including the cardiovascular system, energy metabolism, immunity, hormone secretion, and reproduction. This review summarizes our current understanding of the mechanisms of circadian timekeeping in different species, its adaptation by external timing signals and the pathophysiological consequences of circadian disruption.
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Salehi MS, Pandamooz S, Khazali H. Oxytocin intranasal administration as a new hope for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism patients. Med Hypotheses 2017; 109:88-89. [PMID: 29150303 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Revised: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) is a form of hypogonadism which also known as secondary or central hypogonadism. Congenital HH can occur due to defect in gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, upstream regulators of GnRH neurons or pituitary gonadotropic cells. Testosterone or gonadotropins therapy are widely used to treat HH patients, however both have undesirable effects and GnRH treatment for HH patients is time and cost consuming. Direct delivery of therapeutics to the brain via the nasal route is located in the center of attention during the last decade and trial application of intranasal oxytocin as a method of enhancing social interactions are reported. It has been delineated that oxytocin stimulates GnRH release from the rat hypothalamic explants and intranasal applied oxytocin up-regulates GnRH expression in the male rat hypothalamus. Therefore application of intranasal oxytocin might be a new strategy to cure HH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Saied Salehi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sareh Pandamooz
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homayoun Khazali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
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Peripheral oxytocin receptors inhibit the nociceptive input signal to spinal dorsal horn wide-dynamic-range neurons. Pain 2017; 158:2117-2128. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Oxytocin Intranasal Administration Affects Neural Networks Upstream of GNRH Neurons. J Mol Neurosci 2017; 62:356-362. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-017-0943-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Li T, Wang P, Wang SC, Wang YF. Approaches Mediating Oxytocin Regulation of the Immune System. Front Immunol 2017; 7:693. [PMID: 28119696 PMCID: PMC5223438 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic neuroendocrine system is mainly composed of the neural structures regulating hormone secretion from the pituitary gland and has been considered as the higher regulatory center of the immune system. Recently, the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system (HNS) emerged as an important component of neuroendocrine–immune network, wherein the oxytocin (OT)-secreting system (OSS) plays an essential role. The OSS, consisting of OT neurons in the supraoptic nucleus, paraventricular nucleus, their several accessory nuclei and associated structures, can integrate neural, endocrine, metabolic, and immune information and plays a pivotal role in the development and functions of the immune system. The OSS can promote the development of thymus and bone marrow, perform immune surveillance, strengthen immune defense, and maintain immune homeostasis. Correspondingly, OT can inhibit inflammation, exert antibiotic-like effect, promote wound healing and regeneration, and suppress stress-associated immune disorders. In this process, the OSS can release OT to act on immune system directly by activating OT receptors or through modulating activities of other hypothalamic–pituitary–immune axes and autonomic nervous system indirectly. However, our understandings of the role of the OSS in neuroendocrine regulation of immune system are largely incomplete, particularly its relationship with other hypothalamic–pituitary–immune axes and the vasopressin-secreting system that coexists with the OSS in the HNS. In addition, it remains unclear about the relationship between the OSS and peripherally produced OT in immune regulation, particularly intrathymic OT that is known to elicit central immunological self-tolerance of T-cells to hypophysial hormones. In this work, we provide a brief review of current knowledge of the features of OSS regulation of the immune system and of potential approaches that mediate OSS coordination of the activities of entire neuroendocrine–immune network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University , Harbin , China
| | - Ping Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University , Harbin , China
| | - Stephani C Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center , Albany, NY , USA
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University , Harbin , China
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Sexual behavior and dendritic spine density of posterodorsal medial amygdala neurons in oxytocin knockout female mice. Behav Brain Res 2013; 256:95-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Suzuki M, Honda Y, Li MZ, Masuko S, Murata Y. The localization of oxytocin receptors in the islets of Langerhans in the rat pancreas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 183:42-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2013.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Moreno-López Y, Martínez-Lorenzana G, Condés-Lara M, Rojas-Piloni G. Identification of oxytocin receptor in the dorsal horn and nociceptive dorsal root ganglion neurons. Neuropeptides 2013; 47:117-23. [PMID: 23102456 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2012.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2012] [Revised: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) secreted by the hypothalamo-spinal projection exerts antinociceptive effects in the dorsal horn. Electrophysiological evidence indicates that OT could exert these effects by activating OT receptors (OTR) directly on dorsal horn neurons and/or primary nociceptive afferents in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). However, little is known about the identity of the dorsal horn and DRG neurons that express the OTR. In the dorsal horn, we found that the OTR is expressed principally in neurons cell bodies. However, neither spino-thalamic dorsal horn neurons projecting to the contralateral thalamic ventral posterolateral nucleus (VPL) and posterior nuclear group (Po) nor GABaergic dorsal horn neurons express the OTR. The OTR is not expressed in skin nociceptive terminals or in dorsal horn nociceptive fibers. In the DRG, however, the OTR is expressed predominantly in non-peptidergic C-fiber cell bodies, but not in peptidergic or mechanoreceptor afferents or in skin nociceptive terminals. Our results suggest that the antinociceptive effects of OT are mediated by direct activation of dorsal horn neurons and peripheral actions on nociceptive, non-peptidergic C-afferents in the DRG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Moreno-López
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
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Evans JJ, Anderson GM. Balancing ovulation and anovulation: integration of the reproductive and energy balance axes by neuropeptides. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:313-32. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Gravati M, Busnelli M, Bulgheroni E, Reversi A, Spaiardi P, Parenti M, Toselli M, Chini B. Dual modulation of inward rectifier potassium currents in olfactory neuronal cells by promiscuous G protein coupling of the oxytocin receptor. J Neurochem 2010; 114:1424-35. [PMID: 20557424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06861.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin receptor is a seven transmembrane receptor widely expressed in the CNS that triggers G(i) or G(q) protein-mediated signaling cascades leading to the regulation of a variety of neuroendocrine and cognitive functions. We decided to investigate whether and how the promiscuous receptor/G protein coupling affects neuronal excitability. As an experimental model, we used the immortalized gonadotropin-releasing hormone-positive GN11 cell line displaying the features of immature, migrating olfactory neurons. Using RT-PCR analysis, we detected the presence of oxytocin receptors whose stimulation by oxytocin led to the accumulation of inositol phosphates and to the inhibition of cell proliferation, and the expression of several inward rectifier (IR) K+ channel subtypes. Moreover, electrophysiological and pharmacological inspections using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings evidenced that in GN11 cells, IR channel subtypes are responsive to oxytocin. In particular, we found that: (i) peptide activation of receptor either inhibited or stimulated IR conductances, and (ii) IR current inhibition was mediated by a pertussis toxin-resistant G protein presumably of the G(q/11) subtype, and by phospholipase C, whereas IR current activation was achieved via receptor coupling to a pertussis toxin-sensitive G(i/o) protein. The findings suggest that neuronal excitability might be tuned by a single peptide receptor that mediates opposing effects on distinct K+ channels through the promiscuous coupling to different G proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gravati
- Department of Physiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Juszczak M, Boczek-Leszczyk E. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor activation stimulates oxytocin release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system while melatonin inhibits this process. Brain Res Bull 2010; 81:185-90. [PMID: 19874874 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2009.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2009] [Revised: 09/23/2009] [Accepted: 10/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to investigate the influence of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and its agonist and antagonist on oxytocin (OT) release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophysial (H-N) system. An additional aim was to determine whether the possible response of oxytocinergic neurons to these peptides could be modified by melatonin through a cAMP-dependent mechanism. The results show that the highly selective GnRH agonist (i.e., [Des-Gly(10),d-His(Bzl)(6),Pro-NHEt(9)]-LHRH; Histrelin) stimulates the secretion of OT from an isolated rat H-N system. Melatonin significantly inhibited basal and histrelin-induced release of OT in vitro, and displayed no significant influence on OT release in the presence of GnRH or its antagonist. Addition of melatonin to a medium containing forskolin resulted in significant reduction of OT secretion from the H-N system. On the other hand, addition of forskolin to a medium containing both histrelin and melatonin did not further alter the inhibitory influence of melatonin on the histrelin-dependent secretion of OT in vitro. Intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion (experiment in vivo) of a GnRH antagonist resulted in substantial inhibition of OT release, thus revealing the stimulatory action of endogenous GnRH. In melatonin-treated animals, blood plasma OT levels were not changed in comparison to the vehicle. Our present data strongly suggests that activation of the GnRH receptor in the hypothalamus is involved in stimulation of OT secretion from the rat H-N system. It has also been shown, under experimental in vitro conditions, that melatonin fully suppresses the response of oxytocinergic neurons to the GnRH agonist - histrelin. The effect of melatonin on OT release is mediated by the cAMP-dependent mechanism, although other mechanisms of action are also possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlena Juszczak
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lodz, Narutowicza 60, str., 90-136 Lodz, Poland.
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Abstract
We have recently shown that an entire oxytocin (OT) system, a peptide and its cognate receptors, is synthesized in the heart. In fetal and newborn hearts, OT exists in its extended three-amino acid form, OT-Gly-Lys-Arg (OT-GKR). OT translocates glucose transporter type 4 to the plasma membrane in human endothelial cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that the cardiac OT/OT-GKR system may be involved in the regulation of myocardial glucose uptake in physiological conditions and during metabolic stress such as hypoxia. Primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (CM) and cardiac progenitor cells expressing ATP-binding cassette efflux transporter G2 transporter (stem cell marker) were studied. OT (10 nm) increased basal glucose uptake in CM to 4.0 +/- 0.2 fmol/mg protein, with OT-GKR (10 nm) elevating it to 5.3 +/- 0.4 fmol/mg protein (P < 0.001) in comparison with 2.2 fmol/mg in control cells. OT had a moderate synergistic effect with 0.1 mm 2,4-dinitrophenol, augmenting basal glucose uptake to 5.5 +/- 0.5 fmol/mg. OT-GKR (10 nm) was even more potent in combination with 2,4-dinitrophenol, increasing glucose uptake to 9.0 +/- 1.0 fmol/mg. Wortmannin (0.1 microm), an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, significantly suppressed the effect of OT and insulin (10 nm) (P < 0.001), indicating common pathways. Our data suggest that OT and OT-GKR influence glucose uptake in neonatal rat CM and may thus play a role in the maintenance of cardiac function and cell survival during metabolic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Florian
- Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Hôtel-Dieu, Pavillon Masson, 3850 Saint-Urbain Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Parent AS, Rasier G, Matagne V, Lomniczi A, Lebrethon MC, Gérard A, Ojeda SR, Bourguignon JP. Oxytocin facilitates female sexual maturation through a glia-to-neuron signaling pathway. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1358-65. [PMID: 18039781 PMCID: PMC2275370 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
It has been earlier proposed that oxytocin could play a facilitatory role in the preovulatory LH surge in both rats and humans. We here provide evidence that oxytocin also facilitates sexual maturation in female rats. The administration of an oxytocin antagonist for 6 d to immature female rats decreased GnRH pulse frequency ex vivo and delayed the age at vaginal opening and first estrus. The in vitro reduction in GnRH pulse frequency required chronic blockade of oxytocin receptors, because it was not acutely observed after a single injection of the antagonist. Hypothalamic explants exposed to the antagonist in vitro showed a reduced GnRH pulse frequency and failed to respond to oxytocin with GnRH release. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) mimicked the stimulatory effect of oxytocin on GnRH pulse frequency, and inhibition of PG synthesis blocked the effect of oxytocin, suggesting that oxytocin accelerates pulsatile GnRH release via PGE(2). The source of PGE(2) appears to be astrocytes, because oxytocin stimulates PGE(2) release from cultured hypothalamic astrocytes. Moreover, astrocytes express oxytocin receptors, whereas GnRH neurons do not. These results suggest that oxytocin facilitates female sexual development and that this effect is mediated by a mechanism involving glial production of PGE(2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Simone Parent
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, Unioversity of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
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