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Echeverry C, Richeri A, Fagetti J, Martínez GF, Vignolo F, Prunell G, Cuñetti L, Martínez Busi M, Pérez S, de Medina VS, Ferreiro C, Scorza C. Neuroprotective Effect of a Pharmaceutical Extract of Cannabis with High Content on CBD Against Rotenone in Primary Cerebellar Granule Cell Cultures and the Relevance of Formulations. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:e907-e916. [PMID: 37155642 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0289] [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] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Preclinical research supports the benefits of pharmaceutical cannabis-based extracts for treating different medical conditions (e.g., epilepsy); however, their neuroprotective potential has not been widely investigated. Materials and Methods: Using primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells, we evaluated the neuroprotective activity of Epifractan (EPI), a cannabis-based medicinal extract containing a high level of cannabidiol (CBD), components like terpenoids and flavonoids, trace levels of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and the acid form of CBD. We determined the ability of EPI to counteract the rotenone-induced neurotoxicity by analyzing cell viability and morphology of neurons and astrocytes by immunocytochemical assays. The effect of EPI was compared with XALEX, a plant-derived and highly purified CBD formulation (XAL), and pure CBD crystals (CBD). Results: The results revealed that EPI induced a significant reduction in the rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in a wide range of concentrations without causing neurotoxicity per se. EPI showed a similar effect to XAL suggesting that no additive or synergistic interactions between individual substances present in EPI occurred. In contrast, CBD did show a different profile to EPI and XAL because a neurotoxic effect per se was observed at higher concentrations assayed. Medium-chain triglyceride oil used in EPI formulation could explain this difference. Conclusion: Our data support a neuroprotective effect of EPI that may provide neuroprotection in different neurodegenerative processes. The results highlight the role of CBD as the active component of EPI but also support the need for an appropriate formulation to dilute pharmaceutical cannabis-based products that could be critical to avoid neurotoxicity at very high doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Echeverry
- Laboratorio de Mecanismos de Neurodegeneración y Neuroprotección and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Analía Richeri
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jimena Fagetti
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gaby F Martínez
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Federico Vignolo
- Laboratorio de Mecanismos de Neurodegeneración y Neuroprotección and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Giselle Prunell
- Laboratorio de Mecanismos de Neurodegeneración y Neuroprotección and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Marcela Martínez Busi
- Plataforma de Química Analítica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Sandra Pérez
- Plataforma de Química Analítica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | | | - Cecilia Scorza
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Neuropilin-1 receptor in the rapid and selective estrogen-induced neurovascular remodeling of rat uterus. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 381:299-308. [PMID: 32242249 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03196-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Sympathetic nerves innervate most organs and regulate organ blood flow. Specifically, in the uterus, estradiol (E2) elicits rapid degeneration of sympathetic axons and stimulates the growth of blood vessels. Both physiological remodeling processes, critical for reproduction, have been extensively studied but as independent events and are still not fully understood. Here, we examine the neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a shared receptor for axon guidance and angiogenic factors. Systemic estradiol or vehicle were chronically injected to prepubertal rats and uterine and sympathetic chain sections immunostained for NRP1. Uterine semaphorin-3A mRNA was evaluated by in situ hybridization. Control sympathetic uterine-projecting neurons (1-month-old) expressed NRP1 in their somas but not in their intrauterine terminal axons. Estradiol did not affect NRP1 in the distal ganglia. However, at the entrance of the organ, some sympathetic NRP1-positive nerves were recognized. Vascular NRP1 was confined to intrauterine small-diameter vessels in both hormonal conditions. Although the overall pattern of NRP1-IR was not affected by E2 treatment, a subpopulation of infiltrated eosinophil leukocytes showed immunoreactivity for NRP1. Sema3A transcripts were detected in this cellular type as well. No NRP1-immunoreactive axons nor infiltrated eosinophils were visualized in other estrogenized pelvic organs. Together, these data suggest the involvement of NRP1/Sema3A signaling in the selective E2-induced uterine neurovascular remodeling. Our data support a model whereby NRP1 could coordinate E2-induced uterine neurovascular remodeling, acting as a positive regulator of growth when expressed in vessels and as a negative regulator of growth when expressed on axons.
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Bottasso E. Toward the Existence of a Sympathetic Neuroplasticity Adaptive Mechanism Influencing the Immune Response. A Hypothetical View-Part II. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:633. [PMID: 31620088 PMCID: PMC6760024 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In the preceding work, a hypothesis on the existence of a specific neural plasticity program from sympathetic fibers innervating secondary lymphoid organs was introduced. This proposed adaptive mechanism would involve segmental retraction and degeneration of noradrenergic terminals during the immune system (IS) activation followed by regeneration once the IS returns to the steady-state. Starting from such view, this second part presents clinical and experimental evidence allowing to envision that this sympathetic neural plasticity mechanism is also operative on inflamed non-lymphoid peripheral tissues. Importantly, the sympathetic nervous system regulates most of the physiological bodily functions, ranging from cardiovascular, respiratory and gastro-intestinal functions to endocrine and metabolic ones, among others. Thus, it seems sensible to think that compensatory programs should be put into place during inflammation in non-lymphoid tissues as well, to avoid the possible detrimental consequences of a sympathetic blockade. Nevertheless, in many pathological scenarios like severe sepsis, chronic inflammatory diseases, or maladaptive immune responses, such compensatory programs against noradrenergic transmission impairment would fail to develop. This would lead to a manifest sympathetic dysfunction in the above-mentioned settings, partly accounting for their underlying pathophysiological basis; which is also discussed. The physiological/teleological significance for the whole neural plasticity process is postulated, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Bottasso
- Departments of Pathology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Rosario, Argentina
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López Hill X, Richeri A, McGregor R, Acuña A, Scorza C. Neuro-behavioral effects after systemic administration of MK-801 and disinhibition of the anterior thalamic nucleus in rats: Potential relevance in schizophrenia. Brain Res 2019; 1718:176-185. [PMID: 31071305 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Non-competitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) antagonists have been suggested to evoke psychotomimetic-like behaviors by selectively targeting GABAergic elements in cortical and thalamic circuits. In previous studies, we had reported the involvement of the reticular and anterior thalamic nuclei (ATN) in the MK-801-evoked hyperactivity and other motor alterations. Consistent with the possibility that these responses were mediated by thalamic disinhibition, we examined the participation of cortical and hippocampal areas innervated by ATN in the responses elicited by the systemic administration of MK-801 (0.2 mg/kg) and compared them to the effects produced by the microinjection of a subconvulsive dose of bicuculline (GABAA receptor antagonist) in the ATN. We used the expression of Fos related antigen 2 (Fra-2) as a neuronal activity marker in the ATN and its projection areas such as hippocampus (HPC), retrosplenial cortex (RS), entorhinal cortex (EC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Dorsal (caudate-putamen, CPu) and ventral striatum (nucleus accumbens, core and shell, NAc,co and NAc,sh) were also studied. Behavioral and brain activation results suggest a partial overlap after the effect of MK-801 administration and ATN disinhibition. MK-801 and ATN disinhibition increases locomotor activity and disorganized movements, while ATN disinhibition also reduces rearing behavior. A significant increase in Fra-2 immunoreactivity (Fra-2-IR) in the ATN, mPFC (prelimbic area, PrL) and NAc,sh was observed after MK-801, while a different pattern of Fra-2-IR was detected following ATN disinhibition (e.g., increase in DG and NAc,sh, and decrease in PrL cortex). Overall, our data may contribute to the understanding of dysfunctional neural circuits involved in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena López Hill
- Department of Experimental Neuropharmacology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Analía Richeri
- Department of Experimental Neuropharmacology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay; Laboratory of Cell Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ronald McGregor
- Veterans Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobiology Research (151A3), North Hills, CA 91343, United States; Department Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States; Brain Research Institute, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Alejo Acuña
- Department of Experimental Neuropharmacology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cecilia Scorza
- Department of Experimental Neuropharmacology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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Bottasso E. Toward the Existence of a Sympathetic Neuroplasticity Adaptive Mechanism Influencing the Immune Response. A Hypothetical View-Part I. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:632. [PMID: 31616373 PMCID: PMC6763740 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The nervous system exerts a profound influence on the function of the immune system (IS), mainly through the sympathetic arm of the autonomic nervous system. In fact, the sympathetic nervous system richly innervates secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs) such as the spleen and lymph nodes. For decades, different research groups working in the field have consistently reported changes in the sympathetic innervation of the SLOs during the activation of the IS, which are characterized by a decreased noradrenergic activity and retraction of these fibers. Most of these groups interpreted these changes as a pathological phenomenon, referred to as "damage" or "injury" of the noradrenergic fibers. Some of them postulated that this "injury" was probably due to toxic effects of released endogenous mediators. Others, working on animal models of chronic stimulation of the IS, linked it to the very chronic nature of processes. Unlike these views, this first part of the present work reviews evidence which supports the hypothesis of a specific adaptive mechanism of neural plasticity from sympathetic fibers innervating SLOs, encompassing structural and functional changes of noradrenergic nerves. This plasticity mechanism would involve segmental retraction and degeneration of these fibers during the activation of the IS with subsequent regeneration once the steady state is recovered. The candidate molecules likely to mediate this phenomenon are also here introduced. The second part will extend this view as to the potential changes in sympathetic innervation likely to occur in inflamed non-lymphoid peripheral tissues and its possible immunological implications.
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Barabás K, Godó S, Lengyel F, Ernszt D, Pál J, Ábrahám IM. Rapid non-classical effects of steroids on the membrane receptor dynamics and downstream signaling in neurons. Horm Behav 2018; 104:183-191. [PMID: 29775570 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Although rapid effects of steroid hormones on membrane receptors and intracellular signaling molecules have been extensively studied in neurons, we are only beginning to understand the molecular mechanisms behind these non-classical steroid actions. Single molecule tracking (SMT) studies on live cells demonstrated that surface trafficking of membrane receptors determines their ligand binding properties and downstream signaling events. Recent findings suggest that one of the underlying mechanisms of non-classical steroid actions is the alteration of receptor movements on the membrane surface. In order to highlight this novel aspect of steroid effects, we first address the types of receptor movements in the plasma membrane and the role of cortical actin dynamics in receptor movement. We then discuss how single molecules and the surface movements of receptors can be detected in live cells. Next, we review the fundamental processes, which determine the effect of steroids on the plasma membrane: steroid movement through the lipid bilayer and the role of steroid membrane receptors. Using glutamate and neurotrophin receptors (NTRs) as examples, we demonstrate the features of receptor dynamics in the membrane. In addition, we survey the available data of rapid steroid actions on membrane receptor trafficking: we discuss how glucocorticoids act on the surface diffusion of glutamate receptor molecules and how estradiol acts on NTRs and gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAARs) and their related signaling events as well as on cortical actin. Finally, we address the physiological relevance of rapid steroid action on membrane receptors dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Barabás
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Soma Godó
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Lengyel
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dávid Ernszt
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - József Pál
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - István M Ábrahám
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
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Elmes M, Szyszka A, Pauliat C, Clifford B, Daniel Z, Cheng Z, Wathes C, McMullen S. Maternal age effects on myometrial expression of contractile proteins, uterine gene expression, and contractile activity during labor in the rat. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:e12305. [PMID: 25876907 PMCID: PMC4425948 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age of first time pregnant mothers is associated with prolonged and dysfunctional labor and significant risk of emergency cesarean section. We investigated the influence of maternal age on myometrial contractility, expression of contractile associated proteins (CAPs), and global gene expression in the parturient uterus. Female Wistar rats either 8 (YOUNG n = 10) or 24 (OLDER n = 10) weeks old were fed laboratory chow, mated, and killed during parturition. Myometrial strips were dissected to determine contractile activity, cholesterol (CHOL) and triglycerides (TAG) content, protein expression of connexin-43 (GJA1), prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), and caveolin 1 (CAV-1). Maternal plasma concentrations of prostaglandins PGE2, PGF2α, and progesterone were determined by RIA. Global gene expression in uterine samples was compared using Affymetrix Genechip Gene 2.0 ST arrays and Ingenuity Pathway analysis (IPA). Spontaneous contractility in myometrium exhibited by YOUNG rats was threefold greater than OLDER animals (P < 0.027) but maternal age had no significant effect on myometrial CAP expression, lipid profiles, or pregnancy-related hormones. OLDER myometrium increased contractile activity in response to PGF2α, phenylephrine, and carbachol, a response absent in YOUNG rats (all P < 0.002). Microarray analysis identified that maternal age affected expression of genes related to immune and inflammatory responses, lipid transport and metabolism, steroid metabolism, tissue remodeling, and smooth muscle contraction. In conclusion YOUNG laboring rat myometrium seems primed to contract maximally, whereas activity is blunted in OLDER animals and requires stimulation to meet contractile potential. Further work investigating maternal age effects on myometrial function is required with focus on lipid metabolism and inflammatory pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Elmes
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Alexandra Szyszka
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Caroline Pauliat
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Bethan Clifford
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Zoe Daniel
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Zhangrui Cheng
- Royal Veterinary College, Reproduction and Development Group, Hatfield, UK
| | - Claire Wathes
- Royal Veterinary College, Reproduction and Development Group, Hatfield, UK
| | - Sarah McMullen
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
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Mónica Brauer M, Smith PG. Estrogen and female reproductive tract innervation: cellular and molecular mechanisms of autonomic neuroplasticity. Auton Neurosci 2014; 187:1-17. [PMID: 25530517 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract undergoes remarkable functional and structural changes associated with cycling, conception and pregnancy, and it is likely advantageous to both individual and species to alter relationships between reproductive tissues and innervation. For several decades, it has been appreciated that the mammalian uterus undergoes massive sympathetic axon depletion in late pregnancy, possibly representing an adaptation to promote smooth muscle quiescence and sustained blood flow. Innervation to other structures such as cervix and vagina also undergo pregnancy-related changes in innervation that may facilitate parturition. These tissues provide highly tractable models for examining cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying peripheral nervous system plasticity. Studies show that estrogen elicits rapid degeneration of sympathetic terminal axons in myometrium, which regenerate under low-estrogen conditions. Degeneration is mediated by the target tissue: under estrogen's influence, the myometrium produces proteins repulsive to sympathetic axons including BDNF, neurotrimin, semaphorins, and pro-NGF, and extracellular matrix components are remodeled. Interestingly, nerve depletion does not involve diminished levels of classical sympathetic neurotrophins that promote axon growth. Estrogen also affects sympathetic neuron neurotrophin receptor expression in ways that appear to favor pro-degenerative effects of the target tissue. In contrast to the uterus, estrogen depletes vaginal autonomic and nociceptive axons, with the latter driven in part by estrogen-induced suppression of BMP4 synthesis. These findings illustrate that hormonally mediated physiological plasticity is a highly complex phenomenon involving multiple, predominantly repulsive target-derived factors acting in concert to achieve rapid and selective reductions in innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mónica Brauer
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay.
| | - Peter G Smith
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States; Institute for Neurological Discoveries, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.
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Morotti M, Vincent K, Brawn J, Zondervan KT, Becker CM. Peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:717-36. [PMID: 24859987 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain remains the cardinal symptom of endometriosis. However, to date, the underlying mechanisms are still only poorly understood. Increasing evidence points towards a close interaction between peripheral nerves, the peritoneal environment and the central nervous system in pain generation and processing. Recently, studies demonstrating nerve fibres and neurotrophic and angiogenic factors in endometriotic lesions and their vicinity have led to increased interest in peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. This review focuses on the origin and function of these nerves and factors as well as possible peripheral mechanisms that may contribute to the generation and modulation of pain in women with endometriosis. METHODS We conducted a systematic search using several databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL) of publications from January 1977 to October 2013 to evaluate the possible roles of the peripheral nervous system in endometriosis pathophysiology and how it can contribute to endometriosis-associated pain. RESULTS Endometriotic lesions and peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis had pronounced neuroangiogenic properties with increased expression of new nerve fibres, a shift in the distribution of sensory and autonomic fibres in some locations, and up-regulation of several neurotrophins. In women suffering from deep infiltrating endometriosis and bowel endometriosis, in which the anatomical distribution of lesions is generally more closely related to pelvic pain symptoms, endometriotic lesions and surrounding tissues present higher nerve fibre densities compared with peritoneal lesions and endometriomas. More data are needed to fully confirm a direct correlation between fibre density in these locations and the amount of perceived pain. A better correlation between the presence of nerve fibres and pain symptoms seems to exist for eutopic endometrium. However, this appears not to be exclusive to endometriosis. No correlation between elevated neurotrophin levels and pain severity appears to exist, suggesting the involvement of other mediators in the modulation of pain. CONCLUSIONS The increased expression of neurotrophic factors and nerve fibres in endometriotic lesions, eutopic endometrium and the peritoneum imply a role of such peripheral changes in the pathogenesis of endometriosis-associated pain. However, a clear link between these findings and pain in patients with endometriosis has so far not been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Morotti
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Genoa, Genoa 16100, Italy
| | - Katy Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jennifer Brawn
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Barcena de Arellano ML, Oldeweme J, Arnold J, Schneider A, Mechsner S. Remodeling of estrogen-dependent sympathetic nerve fibers seems to be disturbed in adenomyosis. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:801-9. [PMID: 23755957 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate neuronal remodeling processes in the uterine innervation, particularly a remodeling of sympathetic nerve fibers, as well as the role of estrogen in this modulation in adenomyosis. DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. SETTING University hospital endometriosis center. PATIENT(S) Forty-two patients with histologically proven adenomyosis and 19 patients without adenomyosis. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial and myometrial tissue were immunohistochemically analyzed to further characterize the uterine innervation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Immunohistochemical analysis was used to identify PGP 9.5-, substance P-, and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive nerve fibers. The expression of the aromatase cytochrome P450 was evaluated in uterine tissue, and the expression of the estrogen receptor (ER) -α and ERβ in uterine nerve fibers was analyzed. RESULT(S) Adenomyotic lesions are not innervated. The density of sympathetic nerve fibers in the myometrium of women with adenomyosis is reduced when compared with the nonadenomyosis group. The aromatase expression in the myometrium of women with adenomyosis was increased when compared with the control group. The ERα/ERβ ratio is in trend shifted to the ERα side in the myometrial tyrosine hydroxylase-positive nerve fibers in adenomyosis compared to the controls. CONCLUSION(S) The disruption of the modulation of the uterine sympathetic innervation seems to be an important aspect in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Estrogen and its receptors seem to play a crucial role in the depletion of myometrial sympathetic nerve fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Barcena de Arellano
- Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Department of Gynaecology, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
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Barcena de Arellano ML, Arnold J, Lang H, Vercellino GF, Chiantera V, Schneider A, Mechsner S. Evidence of neurotrophic events due to peritoneal endometriotic lesions. Cytokine 2013; 62:253-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Abstract
Steroid hormones modulate a wide array of physiological processes including development, metabolism, and reproduction in various species. It is generally believed that these biological effects are predominantly mediated by their binding to specific intracellular receptors resulting in conformational change, dimerization, and recruitment of coregulators for transcription-dependent genomic actions (classical mechanism). In addition, to their cognate ligands, intracellular steroid receptors can also be activated in a "ligand-independent" manner by other factors including neurotransmitters. Recent studies indicate that rapid, nonclassical steroid effects involve extranuclear steroid receptors located at the membrane, which interact with cytoplasmic kinase signaling molecules and G-proteins. The current review deals with various mechanisms that function together in an integrated manner to promote hormone-dependent actions on the central and sympathetic nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Mani
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology and Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Richeri A, Chalar C, Martínez G, Greif G, Bianchimano P, Brauer MM. Estrogen up-regulation of semaphorin 3F correlates with sympathetic denervation of the rat uterus. Auton Neurosci 2011; 164:43-50. [PMID: 21724473 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2011.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2010] [Revised: 05/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/08/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Current evidence indicates that rises in systemic levels of estrogen create in the uterus an inhibitory environment for sympathetic nerves. However, molecular insights of these changes are far from complete. We evaluated if semaphorin 3F mRNA, a sympathetic nerve repellent, was produced by the rat uterus and if its expression was modulated by estrogen. We also analyzed whether uterine nerves express the semaphorin 3F binding receptor, neuropilin-2. Uterine levels of semaphorin 3F mRNA were measured using real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in prepubertal rat controls and following chronic estrogen treatment. Localization of semaphorin 3F transcripts was determined by in situ hybridization and the expression of neuropilin-2 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. These studies showed that: (1) chronic estrogen treatment led to a 5-fold induction of semaphorin 3F mRNA in the immature uterus; (2) estrogen provoked a tissue-specific induction of semaphorin 3F which was particularly localized in the connective tissue that borders muscle bundles and surrounds intrauterine blood vessels; (3) two major cell-types were recognized in the areas where transcripts were concentrated, fibroblast-like cells and infiltrating eosinophil leukocytes; and (4) some delicate nerve terminal profiles present in the estrogenized uterus were immunoreactive for neuropilin-2. Temporal and spatial expression patterns of semaphorin 3F/neuropilin-2 are consistent with a possible role of this guidance cue in the remodeling of uterine sympathetic innervation by estrogen. Though correlative in its nature, these data support a model whereby semaphorin 3F, in combination with other inhibitory molecules, converts the estrogenized myometrium to an inhospitable environment for sympathetic nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Analía Richeri
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Age-associated alterations in sympathetic noradrenergic innervation of primary and secondary lymphoid organs in female Fischer 344 rats. J Neuroimmunol 2010; 233:54-64. [PMID: 21186063 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2010.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Normal aging processes, as well as, psychological stress affect the immune system; each can act alone, or interact with each other, to cause dysregulation of immune function substantially altering physical and mental health. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS), a major mediator of stress effects on immune function, is significantly affected by normal aging process, and stress can affect aging of the SNS. Previously, we have shown age-associated changes in sympathetic noradrenergic (NA) innervation of lymphoid organs in male rodents that affect immune regulation. The purpose of this study was to investigate sympathetic innervation of lymphoid organs and associated alterations in immune responses in young and aging female Fischer 344 (F344) rats. Histofluorescence and immunocytochemistry for NA innervation, and neurochemistry for norepinephrine (NE) levels were performed in the thymus, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) isolated from 3-month-old young (normal estrous cycle), 8- to 9-month-old (onset of irregular estrous cycling), and 24-25 month, and 30-31 month female F344 rats (acyclic) at diestrus based on vaginal smears. Age-related alterations in natural killer (NK) cell activity, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production, T and B lymphocyte proliferation were examined in splenocytes. Sympathetic NA innervation and NE levels increased with aging in the thymus, declined in spleen and MLN, and was accompanied by significant reductions in NK cell activity, IL-2 and IFN-γ production, and T and B cell proliferation in old female rats. In 8-9 mo rats, NE levels in the hilar region of the spleen and IFN-γ production were unaltered, while NE levels in the end region of the spleen and IL-2 production were reduced. Collectively, these results suggest that aging is characterized by significant alterations in sympathetic NA innervation in the thymus, spleen, and MLN associated with immunosuppression, and that there is a marked shift in NA activity and immune reactivity occurring during middle-aged female rats.
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Koszykowska M, Calka J, Szwajca P, Jana B. Long-term estradiol-17β administration decreases the number of neurons in the caudal mesenteric ganglion innervating the ovary in sexually mature gilts. J Reprod Dev 2010; 57:62-71. [PMID: 20881351 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.10-061s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of estradiol-17β (E(2)) on the number and distribution of neurons in the caudal mesenteric ganglion (CaMG) supplying the ovary of adult pigs was investigated. Also, the numbers of ovarian dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DβH-), neuropeptide Y (NPY-), somatostatin (SOM-), galanin (GAL-) and estrogen receptor (ER)-immunoreactive perikarya as well as the density of the intraganglionic nerve fibers containing DβH and/or NPY, SOM, GAL were determined. E(2) was administered i.m. from day 4 of the first studied estrous cycle to the expected day 20 of the second studied cycle. Injections of E(2) (1) increased the E(2) level in the peripheral blood approximately 4-5 fold, (2) decreased the number of small-sized Fast Blue-positive postganglionic neurons in the CaMG, (3) decreased the number of small perikarya in the ventral, dorsal and central regions of the CaMG, (4) decreased the number of large perikarya in the dorsal and central regions, (5) decreased the number of small and large perikarya in the CaMG that were DβH(+)/NPY(+), (6) decreased the number of small DβH(+) but NPY(-) perikarya, (7) decreased the number of small perikarya coded DβH(+)/SOM(+) and DβH(+)/SOM(-), (8) decreased the number of small DβH(+)/GAL(-) perikarya, (9) decreased the number of small and large perikarya expressing ER subtypes α and β and (10) decreased the total number of nerve fibers in the CaMG containing DβH and/or NPY and DβH and/or GAL. These results show that long-term E(2) treatment of adult gilts downregulates the populations of both noradrenergic and ERs expressing ovarian neurons in the CaMG. Our findings suggest also that elevated E(2) levels that occur during pathological states may regulate gonadal function(s) by affecting ovary supplying neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlena Koszykowska
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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Richeri A, Bianchimano P, Crutcher KA, Brauer MM. Reduced sympathetic neurite outgrowth on uterine tissue sections from rats treated with estrogen. Cell Tissue Res 2010; 340:287-301. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-010-0956-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2009] [Accepted: 02/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Kemp SWP, Walsh SK, Midha R. Growth factor and stem cell enhanced conduits in peripheral nerve regeneration and repair. Neurol Res 2009; 30:1030-8. [PMID: 19079977 DOI: 10.1179/174313208x362505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the capacity for spontaneous axonal regeneration, recovery after severe peripheral nerve injury remains variable and often very poor. In addition, autologous nerve grafts, considered to be the 'gold standard' in nerve repair technique, are plagued by restricted donor tissue availability and donor site morbidity. Our primary objective is to highlight new and emerging methods of nerve repair, which have the potential to significantly improve both the functional and behavioral outcome after clinical nerve injury. METHODS A critical analysis of nerve injury and regeneration literature concentrating on outcome measures from both immediate and chronically denervated experimental works was conducted. RESULTS Results of numerous works employing both growth factor and stem cell enhanced nerve guidance conduits have shown encouraging results. However, further research is needed to optimize guidance conduit dynamics, bioavailability and delivery of both growth factors and stem cells to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery. DISCUSSION This review discusses current animal and clinical growth factor and stem cell studies, specifically focusing on future bio-engineering approaches in developing a nerve guidance conduit in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W P Kemp
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta, Canada.
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Anesetti G, Lombide P, Chávez-Genaro R. Prepubertal estrogen exposure modifies neurotrophin receptor expression in celiac neurons and alters ovarian innervation. Auton Neurosci 2009; 145:35-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2008.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Revised: 10/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Brauer MM. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying plasticity in uterine sympathetic nerves. Auton Neurosci 2008; 140:1-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2008.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2007] [Revised: 01/14/2008] [Accepted: 02/19/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Bianchimano P, Frías AI, Richeri A, Brauer MM. Effects of dexamethasone on estrogen- and pregnancy-induced plasticity in rat uterine sympathetic nerves. Cell Tissue Res 2007; 330:413-25. [PMID: 17901987 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-007-0444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2007] [Accepted: 05/22/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen and glucocorticoids are known to evoke opposing effects on the uterus. We analyzed the effects of dexamethasone (DEX) on uterine sympathetic denervation elicited by short- and long-term exposure to estrogen of intact prepubertal rats. We also studied the effects of DEX on the physiological degeneration of uterine sympathetic nerves at term pregnancy. Changes in innervation were assessed quantitatively by using computer-assisted methods on uterine cryostat tissue sections stained for tyrosine hydroxylase. At 24 h following treatment of prepubertal rats (25 days of age) with 1 microg or 2.5 microg estrogen, marked increases in uterine size and reductions in the percentage nerve area were observed. Co-administration of DEX (4 mg/kg) attenuated both these short-term estrogen-induced effects. Treatment of 19-day-old rats with a single dose of 25 mug estrogen provoked, at 26 days of age, a 54% reduction in the total nerve area. This reduction was abolished by the co-administration of nine doses of DEX (0.5 mg/kg) at 18-26 days of age. Treatment of rats with the same regime of DEX alone increased the total nerve area by 46% of the control values. Studies of control pregnant rats revealed the unexpected presence of intrauterine nerve fibers at term. Treatment of pregnant rats with six doses of DEX (4 mg/kg) at 16-21 days of age had no effects on the density of uterine sympathetic nerves. These results suggest that DEX has growth-promoting effects on immature uterine sympathetic nerves and may antagonize the degenerative effects elicited by long-term exposure to estrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Bianchimano
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Avenida Italia 3318, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
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