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Biswas MS, Gelman EM, Alexopoulos DJ, Keen KL, Adam RJ, Terasawa E. The role of neuroestrogens in the estrogen-induced gonadotropin surge in male monkeys. J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13413. [PMID: 38760983 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Neuroestrogens locally synthesized in the brain are known to play a role in sexual behaviors. However, the question of whether neuroestrogens are involved in the regulation of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release is just emerging. Because previous studies in this lab indicate that neuroestradiol is also important for the pulsatile release as well as the surge release of GnRH in female rhesus monkeys, in the present study, we examined whether neuroestradiol plays a role in the estrogen-induced LH surge in orchidectomized (ORX) male rhesus monkeys. Unlike in rodents, it is known that a high dose of estrogen treatment can result in the LH surge in ORX male rhesus monkeys. Results that the administration of the aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, failed to attenuate the estrogen-induced LH surge, suggest that unlike in ovariectomized females, neuroestrogens do not play a role in the LH surge experimentally induced by the exogenous estrogen treatment in ORX male monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Biswas
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Erica M Gelman
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Daniel J Alexopoulos
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kim L Keen
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ryan J Adam
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ei Terasawa
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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2
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Yamada K, Mano T, Hazim S, Takizawa M, Inoue N, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. Neonatal Aromatase Inhibition Blocked Defeminization of AVPV Kiss1 Neurons and LH Surge-Generating System in Male Rats. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae028. [PMID: 38470466 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The neuroendocrine system that controls the preovulatory surge of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation in female mammals, is sexually differentiated in rodents. A transient increase in circulating testosterone levels in male rats within a few hours of birth is primarily responsible for the defeminization of anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) kisspeptin neurons, which are critical regulators of the GnRH/LH surge. The present study aimed to determine whether neonatal estradiol-17β (E2) converted from testosterone by aromatase primarily causes the defeminization of AVPV kisspeptin neurons and the surge of GnRH/LH in male rodents. The results of the present study showed that the neonatal administration of letrozole (LET), a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, within 2 hours of birth rescued AVPV Kiss1 expression and the LH surge in adult male rats, while the neonatal administration of testosterone propionate (TP) irreversibly attenuated AVPV Kiss1 expression and the LH surge in adult female rats. Furthermore, the neonatal LET-treated Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato reporter males exhibited a comparable number of AVPV Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato-expressing cells to that of vehicle-treated female rats, while neonatal TP-treated females showed fewer AVPV Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato-expressing cells than vehicle-treated females. Moreover, neonatal TP administration significantly decreased the number of arcuate Kiss1-expressing and Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato-positive cells and suppressed LH pulses in adult gonadectomized female rats; however, neonatal LET administration failed to affect them. These results suggest that E2 converted from neonatal testosterone is primarily responsible for the defeminization of AVPV kisspeptin neurons and the subsequent GnRH/LH surge generation in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Yamada
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Safiullah Hazim
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Marina Takizawa
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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3
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Yamada K, Nagae M, Mano T, Tsuchida H, Hazim S, Goto T, Sanbo M, Hirabayashi M, Inoue N, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. Sex difference in developmental changes in visualized Kiss1 neurons in newly generated Kiss1-Cre rats. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:227-238. [PMID: 37518187 PMCID: PMC10602768 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-019] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons are master regulators of mammalian reproduction via direct stimulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and consequent gonadotropin release. Here, we generated novel Kiss1 (kisspeptin gene)-Cre rats and investigated the developmental changes and sex differences in visualized Kiss1 neurons of Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato reporter rats. First, we validated Kiss1-Cre rats by generating Kiss1-expressing cell-specific Kiss1 knockout (Kiss1-KpKO) rats, which were obtained by crossing the current Kiss1-Cre rats with Kiss1-floxed rats. The resulting male Kiss1-KpKO rats lacked Kiss1 expression in the brain and exhibited hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, similar to the hypogonadal phenotype of global Kiss1 KO rats. Histological analysis of Kiss1 neurons in Kiss1-Cre-activated tdTomato reporter rats revealed that tdTomato signals in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and arcuate nucleus (ARC) were not affected by estrogen, and that tdTomato signals in the ARC, AVPV, and medial amygdala (MeA) were sexually dimorphic. Notably, neonatal AVPV tdTomato signals were detected only in males, but a larger number of tdTomato-expressing cells were detected in the AVPV and ARC, and a smaller number of cells in the MeA was detected in females than in males at postpuberty. These findings suggest that Kiss1-visualized rats can be used to examine the effect of estrogen feedback mechanisms on Kiss1 expression in the AVPV and ARC. Moreover, the Kiss1-Cre and Kiss1-visualized rats could be valuable tools for further detailed analyses of sexual differentiation in the brain and the physiological role of kisspeptin neurons across the brain in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Yamada
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Mayuko Nagae
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hitomi Tsuchida
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Safiullah Hazim
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Teppei Goto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Makoto Sanbo
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. KNDy neurones and GnRH/LH pulse generation: Current understanding and future aspects. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13285. [PMID: 37232103 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13285] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Uncovering the central mechanism underlying mammalian reproduction is warranted to develop new therapeutic approaches for reproductive disorders in humans and domestic animals. The present study focused on the role of arcuate kisspeptin neurones (also known as KNDy neurones) as an intrinsic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator, which plays a fundamental role in mammalian reproduction via the stimulation of pituitary gonadotropin synthesis and release and thereby in gametogenesis and steroidogenesis in the gonads of mammals. We also discuss the mechanism that inhibits pulsatile GnRH/gonadotropin release under a negative energy balance, considering that reproductive disorders often occur during malnutrition in humans and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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5
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Starrett JR, Moenter SM. Hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons as potential mediators of estradiol negative and positive feedback. Peptides 2023; 163:170963. [PMID: 36740189 PMCID: PMC10516609 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal steroid feedback regulates the brain's patterned secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Negative feedback, which occurs in males and during the majority of the female cycle, modulates the amplitude and frequency of GnRH pulses. Positive feedback occurs in females when high estradiol induces a surge pattern of GnRH release. These two forms of feedback and their corresponding patterns of GnRH secretion are thought to be mediated by kisspeptin-expressing neurons in two hypothalamic areas: the arcuate nucleus and the anteroventral periventricular area. In this review, we present evidence for this theory and remaining questions to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Rudolph Starrett
- Departments of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Departments of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; The Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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6
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Magata F, Tsukamura H, Matsuda F. The impact of inflammatory stress on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons: Mechanisms underlying inflammation-associated infertility in humans and domestic animals. Peptides 2023; 162:170958. [PMID: 36682622 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory diseases attenuate reproductive functions in humans and domestic animals. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin released by bacteria, is known to disrupt female reproductive functions in various inflammatory diseases. LPS administration has been used to elucidate the impact of pathophysiological activation of the immune system on reproduction. Hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons are the master regulators of mammalian reproduction, mediating direct stimulation of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release and consequent release of gonadotropins, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone from the pituitary. The discovery of kisspeptin neurons in the mammalian hypothalamus has drastically advanced our understanding of how inflammatory stress causes reproductive dysfunction in both humans and domestic animals. Inflammation-induced ovarian dysfunction could be caused, at least partly, by aberrant GnRH and LH secretion, which is regulated by kisspeptin signaling. In this review, we focus on the effects of LPS on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons to outline the impact of inflammatory stress on neuroendocrine regulation of mammalian reproductive systems. First, we summarize the attenuation of female reproduction by LPS during inflammation and the effects of LPS on ovarian and pituitary function. Second, we outline the inhibitory effects of LPS on pulsatile- and surge-mode GnRH/LH release. Third, we discuss the LPS-responsive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and hypothalamic neural systems in terms of the cytokine-mediated pathway and the possible direct action of LPS via its hypothalamic receptors. This article describes the impact of LPS on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons and the possible mechanisms underlying LPS-mediated disruption of LH pulses/surge via kisspeptin neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Magata
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan.
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
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7
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Inoue N, Hazim S, Tsuchida H, Dohi Y, Ishigaki R, Takahashi A, Otsuka Y, Yamada K, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. Hindbrain Adenosine 5-Triphosphate (ATP)-Purinergic Signaling Triggers LH Surge and Ovulation via Activation of AVPV Kisspeptin Neurons in Rats. J Neurosci 2023; 43:2140-2152. [PMID: 36813577 PMCID: PMC10039743 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1496-22.2023] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovulation disorders are a serious problem for humans and livestock. In female rodents, kisspeptin neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) are responsible for generating a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and consequent ovulation. Here, we report that adenosine 5-triphosphate (ATP), a purinergic receptor ligand, is a possible neurotransmitter that stimulates AVPV kisspeptin neurons to induce an LH surge and consequent ovulation in rodents. Administration of an ATP receptor antagonist (PPADS) into the AVPV blocked the LH surge in ovariectomized (OVX) rats treated with a proestrous level of estrogen (OVX + high E2) and significantly reduced the ovulation rate in proestrous ovary-intact rats. AVPV ATP administration induced a surge-like LH increase in OVX + high E2 rats in the morning. Importantly, AVPV ATP administration could not induce the LH increase in Kiss1 KO rats. Furthermore, ATP significantly increased intracellular Ca2+ levels in immortalized kisspeptin neuronal cell line, and coadministration of PPADS blocked the ATP-induced Ca2+ increase. Histologic analysis revealed that the proestrous level of estrogen significantly increased the number of P2X2 receptor (an ATP receptor)-immunopositive AVPV kisspeptin neurons visualized by tdTomato in Kiss1-tdTomato rats. The proestrous level of estrogen significantly increased varicosity-like vesicular nucleotide transporter (a purinergic marker)-immunopositive fibers projecting to the vicinity of AVPV kisspeptin neurons. Furthermore, we found that some hindbrain vesicular nucleotide transporter-positive neurons projected to the AVPV and expressed estrogen receptor α, and the neurons were activated by the high E2 treatment. These results suggest that hindbrain ATP-purinergic signaling triggers ovulation via activation of AVPV kisspeptin neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Ovulation disorders, which cause infertility and low pregnancy rates, are a serious problem for humans and livestock. The present study provides evidence that adenosine 5-triphosphate, acting as a neurotransmitter in the brain, stimulates kisspeptin neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, known as the gonadotropin-releasing hormone surge generator, via purinergic receptors to induce the gonadotropin-releasing hormone/luteinizing hormone surge and ovulation in rats. In addition, histologic analyses indicate that adenosine 5-triphosphate is likely to be originated from the purinergic neurons in the A1 and A2 of the hindbrain. These findings may contribute to new therapeutic controls for hypothalamic ovulation disorders in humans and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Safiullah Hazim
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hitomi Tsuchida
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yuri Dohi
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Ren Ishigaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Ai Takahashi
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yuki Otsuka
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Koki Yamada
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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8
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Prashar V, Arora T, Singh R, Sharma A, Parkash J. Hypothalamic Kisspeptin Neurons: Integral Elements of the GnRH System. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:802-822. [PMID: 35799018 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01027-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Highly sophisticated and synchronized interactions of various cells and hormonal signals are required to make organisms competent for reproduction. GnRH neurons act as a common pathway for multiple cues for the onset of puberty and attaining reproductive function. GnRH is not directly receptive to most of the signals required for the GnRH secretion during the various phases of the ovarian cycle. Kisspeptin neurons of the hypothalamus convey these signals required for the synchronized release of the GnRH. The steroid-sensitive anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) kisspeptin and arcuate nucleus (ARC) KNDy neurons convey steroid feedback during the reproductive cycle necessary for GnRH surge and pulse, respectively. AVPV region kisspeptin neurons also communicate with nNOS synthesizing neurons and suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neurons to coordinate the process of the ovarian cycle. Neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin play roles in the GnRH pulse stimulation and inhibition, respectively. The loss of NKB and kisspeptin function results in the development of neuroendocrine disorders such as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) and infertility. Ca2+ signaling is essential for GnRH pulse generation, which is propagated through gap junctions between astrocytes-KNDy and KNDy-KNDy neurons. Impaired functioning of KNDy neurons could develop the characteristics associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in rodents. Kisspeptin-increased synthesis led to excessive secretion of the LH associated with PCOS. This review provides the latest insights and understanding into the role of the KNDy and AVPV/POA kisspeptin neurons in GnRH secretion and PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikash Prashar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Tania Arora
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Randeep Singh
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Arti Sharma
- Department of Computational Sciences, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Jyoti Parkash
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India.
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Masumi S, Lee EB, Dilower I, Upadhyaya S, Chakravarthi VP, Fields PE, Rumi MAK. The role of Kisspeptin signaling in Oocyte maturation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:917464. [PMID: 36072937 PMCID: PMC9441556 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.917464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptins (KPs) secreted from the hypothalamic KP neurons act on KP receptors (KPRs) in gonadotropin (GPN) releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons to produce GnRH. GnRH acts on pituitary gonadotrophs to induce secretion of GPNs, namely follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are essential for ovarian follicle development, oocyte maturation and ovulation. Thus, hypothalamic KPs regulate oocyte maturation indirectly through GPNs. KPs and KPRs are also expressed in the ovarian follicles across species. Recent studies demonstrated that intraovarian KPs also act directly on the KPRs expressed in oocytes to promote oocyte maturation and ovulation. In this review article, we have summarized published reports on the role of hypothalamic and ovarian KP-signaling in oocyte maturation. Gonadal steroid hormones regulate KP secretion from hypothalamic KP neurons, which in turn induces GPN secretion from the hypothalamic-pituitary (HP) axis. On the other hand, GPNs secreted from the HP axis act on the granulosa cells (GCs) and upregulate the expression of ovarian KPs. While KPs are expressed predominantly in the GCs, the KPRs are in the oocytes. Expression of KPs in the ovaries increases with the progression of the estrous cycle and peaks during the preovulatory GPN surge. Intrafollicular KP levels in the ovaries rise with the advancement of developmental stages. Moreover, loss of KPRs in oocytes in mice leads to failure of oocyte maturation and ovulation similar to that of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). These findings suggest that GC-derived KPs may act on the KPRs in oocytes during their preovulatory maturation. In addition to the intraovarian role of KP-signaling in oocyte maturation, in vivo, a direct role of KP has been identified during in vitro maturation of sheep, porcine, and rat oocytes. KP-stimulation of rat oocytes, in vitro, resulted in Ca2+ release and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2. In vitro treatment of rat or porcine oocytes with KPs upregulated messenger RNA levels of the factors that favor oocyte maturation. In clinical trials, human KP-54 has also been administered successfully to patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) for increasing oocyte maturation. Exogenous KPs can induce GPN secretion from hypothalamus; however, the possibility of direct KP action on the oocytes cannot be excluded. Understanding the direct in vivo and in vitro roles of KP-signaling in oocyte maturation will help in developing novel KP-based ARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - M. A. Karim Rumi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
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10
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Uenoyama Y, Tsuchida H, Nagae M, Inoue N, Tsukamura H. Opioidergic pathways and kisspeptin in the regulation of female reproduction in mammals. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:958377. [PMID: 36033602 PMCID: PMC9404872 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.958377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous opioid peptides have attracted attention as critical neuropeptides in the central mechanism regulating female reproduction ever since the discovery that arcuate dynorphin neurons that coexpress kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB), which are also known as kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons, play a role as a master regulator of pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release in mammals. In this study, we first focus on the role of dynorphin released by KNDy neurons in the GnRH pulse generation. Second, we provide a historical overview of studies on endogenous opioid peptides. Third, we discuss how endogenous opioid peptides modulate tonic GnRH/gonadotropin release in female mammals as a mediator of inhibitory internal and external cues, such as ovarian steroids, nutritional status, or stress, on reproduction. Then, we discuss the role of endogenous opioid peptides in GnRH surge generation in female mammals.
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11
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Kauffman AS. Neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying estrogen positive feedback and the LH surge. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:953252. [PMID: 35968365 PMCID: PMC9364933 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.953252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A fundamental principle in reproductive neuroendocrinology is sex steroid feedback: steroid hormones secreted by the gonads circulate back to the brain to regulate the neural circuits governing the reproductive neuroendocrine axis. These regulatory feedback loops ultimately act to modulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, thereby affecting gonadotropin secretion from the anterior pituitary. In females, rising estradiol (E2) during the middle of the menstrual (or estrous) cycle paradoxically "switch" from being inhibitory on GnRH secretion ("negative feedback") to stimulating GnRH release ("positive feedback"), resulting in a surge in GnRH secretion and a downstream LH surge that triggers ovulation. While upstream neural afferents of GnRH neurons, including kisspeptin neurons in the rostral hypothalamus, are proposed as critical loci of E2 feedback action, the underlying mechanisms governing the shift between E2 negative and positive feedback are still poorly understood. Indeed, the precise cell targets, neural signaling factors and receptors, hormonal pathways, and molecular mechanisms by which ovarian-derived E2 indirectly stimulates GnRH surge secretion remain incompletely known. In many species, there is also a circadian component to the LH surge, restricting its occurrence to specific times of day, but how the circadian clock interacts with endocrine signals to ultimately time LH surge generation also remains a major gap in knowledge. Here, we focus on classic and recent data from rodent models and discuss the consensus knowledge of the neural players, including kisspeptin, the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and glia, as well as endocrine players, including estradiol and progesterone, in the complex regulation and generation of E2-induced LH surges in females.
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12
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Semaan SJ, Kauffman AS. Developmental sex differences in the peri-pubertal pattern of hypothalamic reproductive gene expression, including Kiss1 and Tac2, may contribute to sex differences in puberty onset. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 551:111654. [PMID: 35469849 PMCID: PMC9889105 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms regulating puberty still remain elusive, as do the underlying causes for sex differences in puberty onset (girls before boys) and pubertal disorders. Neuroendocrine puberty onset is signified by increased pulsatile GnRH secretion, yet how and when various upstream reproductive neural circuits change developmentally to govern this process is poorly understood. We previously reported day-by-day peri-pubertal increases (Kiss1, Tac2) or decreases (Rfrp) in hypothalamic gene expression of female mice, with several brain mRNA changes preceding external pubertal markers. However, similar pubertal measures in males were not previously reported. Here, to identify possible neural sex differences underlying sex differences in puberty onset, we analyzed peri-pubertal males and directly compared them with female littermates. Kiss1 expression in male mice increased over the peri-pubertal period in both the AVPV and ARC nuclei but with lower levels than in females at several ages. Likewise, Tac2 expression in the male ARC increased between juvenile and older peri-pubertal stages but with levels lower than females at most ages. By contrast, both DMN Rfrp expressionand Rfrp neuronal activation strongly decreased in males between juvenile and peri-pubertal stages, but with similar levels as females. Neither ARC KNDy neuronal activation nor Kiss1r expression in GnRH neurons differed between males and females or changed with age. These findings delineate several peri-pubertal changes in neural populations in developing males, with notable sex differences in kisspeptin and NKB neuron developmental patterns. Whether these peri-pubertal hypothalamic sex differences underlie sex differences in puberty onset deserves future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila J Semaan
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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13
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Campbell RE, Coolen LM, Hoffman GE, Hrabovszky E. Highlights of neuroanatomical discoveries of the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone system. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13115. [PMID: 35502534 PMCID: PMC9232911 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The anatomy and morphology of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons makes them both a joy and a challenge to investigate. They are a highly unique population of neurons given their developmental migration into the brain from the olfactory placode, their relatively small number, their largely scattered distribution within the rostral forebrain, and, in some species, their highly varied individual anatomical characteristics. These unique features have posed technological hurdles to overcome and promoted fertile ground for the establishment and use of creative approaches. Historical and more contemporary discoveries defining GnRH neuron anatomy remain critical in shaping and challenging our views of GnRH neuron function in the regulation of reproductive function. We begin this review with a historical overview of anatomical discoveries and developing methodologies that have shaped our understanding of the reproductive axis. We then highlight significant discoveries across specific groups of mammalian species to address some of the important comparative aspects of GnRH neuroanatomy. Lastly, we touch on unresolved questions and opportunities for future neuroanatomical research on this fascinating and important population of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Lique M. Coolen
- Department of Biological SciencesKent State UniversityKentOhioUSA
| | | | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive NeurobiologyInstitute of Experimental MedicineBudapestHungary
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14
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Goodman RL, Herbison AE, Lehman MN, Navarro VM. Neuroendocrine control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone: Pulsatile and surge modes of secretion. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13094. [PMID: 35107859 PMCID: PMC9948945 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The concept that different systems control episodic and surge secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) was well established by the time that GnRH was identified and formed the framework for studies of the physiological roles of GnRH, and later kisspeptin. Here, we focus on recent studies identifying the neural mechanisms underlying these two modes of secretion, with an emphasis on their core components. There is now compelling data that kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus that also contain neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin (i.e., KNDy cells) and their projections to GnRH dendrons constitute the GnRH pulse generator in mice and rats. There is also strong evidence for a similar role for KNDy neurons in sheep and goats, and weaker data in monkeys and humans. However, whether KNDy neurons act on GnRH dendrons and/or GnRH soma and dendrites that are found in the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) of these species remains unclear. The core components of the GnRH/luteinising hormone surge consist of an endocrine signal that initiates the process and a neural trigger that drives GnRH secretion during the surge. In all spontaneous ovulators, the core endocrine signal is a rise in estradiol secretion from the maturing follicle(s), with the site of estrogen positive feedback being the rostral periventricular kisspeptin neurons in rodents and neurons in the MBH of sheep and primates. There is considerable species variations in the neural trigger, with three major classes. First, in reflex ovulators, this trigger is initiated by coitus and carried to the hypothalamus by neural or vascular pathways. Second, in rodents, there is a time of day signal that originates in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and activates rostral periventricular kisspeptin neurons and GnRH soma and dendrites. Finally, in sheep nitric oxide-producing neurons in the ventromedial nucleus, KNDy neurons and rostral kisspeptin neurons all appear to participate in driving GnRH release during the surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L. Goodman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Allan E. Herbison
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael N. Lehman
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Victor M. Navarro
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School and Department of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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15
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Terasawa E. The mechanism underlying the pubertal increase in pulsatile GnRH release in primates. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13119. [PMID: 35491543 PMCID: PMC9232993 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In primates, the gonatotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurosecretory system, consisting of GnRH, kisspeptin, and neurokinin B neurons, is active during the neonatal/early infantile period. During the late infantile period, however, activity of the GnRH neurosecretory system becomes minimal as a result of gonadal steroid independent central inhibition, and this suppressed GnRH neurosecretory state continues throughout the prepubertal period. At the initiation of puberty, the GnRH neurosecretory system becomes active again because of the decrease in central inhibition. During the progress of puberty, kisspeptin and neurokinin B signaling to GnRH neurons further increases, resulting in the release of gonadotropins and subsequent gonadal maturation, and hence puberty. This review further discusses potential substrates of central inhibition and subsequent pubertal modification of the GnRH neurosecretory system by the pubertal increase in steroid hormones, which ensures the regulation of adult reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ei Terasawa
- Department of Pediatrics and Wisconsin National Primate Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWIUSA
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16
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Dardente H, Simonneaux V. GnRH and the photoperiodic control of seasonal reproduction: Delegating the task to kisspeptin and RFRP-3. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13124. [PMID: 35384117 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Synchronization of mammalian breeding activity to the annual change of photoperiod and environmental conditions is of the utmost importance for individual survival and species perpetuation. Subsequent to the early 1960s, when the central role of melatonin in this adaptive process was demonstrated, our comprehension of the mechanisms through which light regulates gonadal activity has increased considerably. The current model for the photoperiodic neuroendocrine system points to pivotal roles for the melatonin-sensitive pars tuberalis (PT) and its seasonally-regulated production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), as well as for TSH-sensitive hypothalamic tanycytes, radial glia-like cells located in the basal part of the third ventricle. Tanycytes respond to TSH through increased expression of thyroid hormone (TH) deiodinase 2 (Dio2), which leads to heightened production of intrahypothalamic triiodothyronine (T3) during longer days of spring and summer. There is strong evidence that this local, long-day driven, increase in T3 links melatonin input at the PT to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) output, to align breeding with the seasons. The mechanism(s) through which T3 impinges upon GnRH remain(s) unclear. However, two distinct neuronal populations of the medio-basal hypothalamus, which express the (Arg)(Phe)-amide peptides kisspeptin and RFamide-related peptide-3, appear to be well-positioned to relay this seasonal T3 message towards GnRH neurons. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the cellular, molecular and neuroendocrine players, which keep track of photoperiod and ultimately govern GnRH output and seasonal breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Dardente
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Simonneaux
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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17
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Sivalingam M, Ogawa S, Trudeau VL, Parhar IS. Conserved functions of hypothalamic kisspeptin in vertebrates. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 317:113973. [PMID: 34971635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic kisspeptin encoded by KISS1/Kiss1 gene emerged as a regulator of the reproductive axis in mammals following the discovery of the kisspeptin receptor (Kissr) and its role in reproduction. Kisspeptin-Kissr systems have been investigated in various vertebrates, and a conserved sequence of kisspeptin-Kissr has been identified in most vertebrate species except in the avian linage. In addition, multiple paralogs of kisspeptin sequences have been identified in the non-mammalian vertebrates. The allegedly conserved role of kisspeptin-Kissr in reproduction became debatable when kiss/kissr genes-deficient zebrafish and medaka showed no apparent effect on the onset of puberty, sexual development, maturation and reproductive capacity. Therefore, it is questionable whether the role of kisspeptin in reproduction is conserved among vertebrate species. Here we discuss from a comparative and evolutional aspect the diverse functions of kisspeptin and its receptor in vertebrates. Primarily this review focuses on the role of hypothalamic kisspeptin in reproductive and non-reproductive functions that are conserved in vertebrate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mageswary Sivalingam
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffery Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Satoshi Ogawa
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffery Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffery Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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18
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Rønnekleiv OK, Qiu J, Kelly MJ. Hypothalamic Kisspeptin Neurons and the Control of Homeostasis. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqab253. [PMID: 34953135 PMCID: PMC8758343 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons provide indispensable excitatory transmission to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons for the coordinated release of gonadotropins, estrous cyclicity, and ovulation. But maintaining reproductive functions is metabolically demanding so there must be a coordination with multiple homeostatic functions, and it is apparent that Kiss1 neurons play that role. There are 2 distinct populations of hypothalamic Kiss1 neurons, namely arcuate nucleus (Kiss1ARH) neurons and anteroventral periventricular and periventricular nucleus (Kiss1AVPV/PeN) neurons in rodents, both of which excite GnRH neurons via kisspeptin release but are differentially regulated by ovarian steroids. Estradiol (E2) increases the expression of kisspeptin in Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons but decreases its expression in Kiss1ARH neurons. Also, Kiss1ARH neurons coexpress glutamate and Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons coexpress gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), both of which are upregulated by E2 in females. Also, Kiss1ARH neurons express critical metabolic hormone receptors, and these neurons are excited by insulin and leptin during the fed state. Moreover, Kiss1ARH neurons project to and excite the anorexigenic proopiomelanocortin neurons but inhibit the orexigenic neuropeptide Y/Agouti-related peptide neurons, highlighting their role in regulating feeding behavior. Kiss1ARH and Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons also project to the preautonomic paraventricular nucleus (satiety) neurons and the dorsomedial nucleus (energy expenditure) neurons to differentially regulate their function via glutamate and GABA release, respectively. Therefore, this review will address not only how Kiss1 neurons govern GnRH release, but how they control other homeostatic functions through their peptidergic, glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic connections, providing further evidence that Kiss1 neurons are the key neurons coordinating energy states with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oline K Rønnekleiv
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Jian Qiu
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Martin J Kelly
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
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19
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Tsukamura H. Kobayashi Award 2019: The neuroendocrine regulation of the mammalian reproduction. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 315:113755. [PMID: 33711315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian reproductive function is a complex system of many players orchestrated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and the consequent pituitary gonadotropin release show two modes of secretory patterns, namely the surge and pulse modes. The surge mode is triggered by the positive feedback action of estrogen secreted from the mature ovarian follicle to induce ovulation in females of most mammalian species. The pulse mode of GnRH release is required for stimulating tonic gonadotropin secretion to drive folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis and is negatively fine-tuned by the sex steroids. Accumulating evidence suggests that hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons are the master regulator for animal reproduction to govern the HPG axis. Specifically, kisspeptin neurons located in the anterior hypothalamus, such as the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) in rodents and preoptic nucleus (POA) in ruminants, primates and others, and the neurons located in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) in posterior hypothalamus in most mammals are considered to play a key role in generating the surge and pulse modes of GnRH release, respectively. The present article focuses on the role of AVPV (or POA) kisspeptin neurons as a center for GnRH surge generation and of the ARC kisspeptin neurons as a center for GnRH pulse generation to mediate estrogen positive and negative feedback mechanisms, respectively, and discusses how the estrogen epigenetically regulates kisspeptin gene expression in these two populations of neurons. This article also provides the mechanism how malnutrition and lactation suppress GnRH/gonadotropin pulses through an inhibition of the ARC kisspeptin neurons. Further, the article discusses the programming effect of estrogen on kisspeptin neurons in the developmental brain to uncover the mechanism underlying the sex difference in GnRH/gonadotropin release as well as an irreversible infertility induced by supra-physiological estrogen exposure in rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.
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20
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Ogawa S, Parhar IS. Heterogeneity in GnRH and kisspeptin neurons and their significance in vertebrate reproductive biology. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 64:100963. [PMID: 34798082 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vertebrate reproduction is essentially controlled by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which is a central dogma of reproductive biology. Two major hypothalamic neuroendocrine cell groups containing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and kisspeptin are crucial for control of the HPG axis in vertebrates. GnRH and kisspeptin neurons exhibit high levels of heterogeneity including their cellular morphology, biochemistry, neurophysiology and functions. However, the molecular foundation underlying heterogeneities in GnRH and kisspeptin neurons remains unknown. More importantly, the biological and physiological significance of their heterogeneity in reproductive biology is poorly understood. In this review, we first describe the recent advances in the neuroendocrine functions of kisspeptin-GnRH pathways. We then view the recent emerging progress in the heterogeneity of GnRH and kisspeptin neurons using morphological and single-cell transcriptomic analyses. Finally, we discuss our views on the significance of functional heterogeneity of reproductive endocrine cells and their potential relevance to reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ogawa
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia.
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21
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Jamieson BB, Moore AM, Lohr DB, Thomas SX, Coolen LM, Lehman MN, Campbell RE, Piet R. Prenatal androgen treatment impairs the suprachiasmatic nucleus arginine-vasopressin to kisspeptin neuron circuit in female mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:951344. [PMID: 35992143 PMCID: PMC9388912 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.951344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with elevated androgen and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and with oligo/anovulation. Evidence indicates that elevated androgens impair sex steroid hormone feedback regulation of pulsatile LH secretion. Hyperandrogenemia in PCOS may also disrupt the preovulatory LH surge. The mechanisms through which this might occur, however, are not fully understood. Kisspeptin (KISS1) neurons of the rostral periventricular area of the third ventricle (RP3V) convey hormonal cues to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. In rodents, the preovulatory surge is triggered by these hormonal cues and coincident timing signals from the central circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Timing signals are relayed to GnRH neurons, in part, via projections from SCN arginine-vasopressin (AVP) neurons to RP3VKISS1 neurons. Because rodent SCN cells express androgen receptors (AR), we hypothesized that these circuits are impaired by elevated androgens in a mouse model of PCOS. In prenatally androgen-treated (PNA) female mice, SCN Ar expression was significantly increased compared to that found in prenatally vehicle-treated mice. A similar trend was seen in the number of Avp-positive SCN cells expressing Ar. In the RP3V, the number of kisspeptin neurons was preserved. Anterograde tract-tracing, however, revealed reduced SCNAVP neuron projections to the RP3V and a significantly lower proportion of RP3VKISS1 neurons with close appositions from SCNAVP fibers. Functional assessments showed, on the other hand, that RP3VKISS1 neuron responses to AVP were maintained in PNA mice. These findings indicate that PNA changes some of the neural circuits that regulate the preovulatory surge. These impairments might contribute to ovulatory dysfunction in PNA mice modeling PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley B. Jamieson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Aleisha M. Moore
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Dayanara B. Lohr
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Simone X. Thomas
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lique M. Coolen
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Michael N. Lehman
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Richard Piet
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard Piet,
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22
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Dai M, Nakamura S, Takahashi C, Sato M, Munetomo A, Magata F, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H, Matsuda F. Reduction of arcuate kappa-opioid receptor-expressing cells increased luteinizing hormone pulse frequency in female rats. Endocr J 2021; 68:933-941. [PMID: 33867395 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej20-0832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain mechanism responsible for the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is important for maintaining reproductive function in mammals. Accumulating evidence suggests that kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin A (KNDy) neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) play a critical role in the regulation of pulsatile GnRH and subsequent gonadotropin secretion. Dynorphin A (Dyn) and its receptor, kappa-opioid receptor (KOR, encoded by Oprk1), have been shown to be involved in the suppression of pulsatile GnRH/luteinizing hormone (LH) release. On the other hand, it is still unclear whether the inhibitory Dyn signaling affects KNDy neurons or KOR-expressing non-KNDy cells in the ARC or other brain regions. We therefore aimed to clarify the role of ARC-specific Dyn-KOR signaling in the regulation of pulsatile GnRH/LH release by the ARC specific cell deletion of KOR-expressing cells using Dyn-conjugated-saporin (Dyn-SAP). Estrogen-primed ovariectomized female rats were administered Dyn-SAP to the ARC. In situ hybridization of Oprk1 showed that ARC Dyn-SAP administration significantly decreased the number of Oprk1-expressing cells in the ARC, but not in the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus and paraventricular nucleus. The frequency of LH pulses significantly increased in animals bearing the ARC Dyn-SAP administration. The number of Kiss1-expressing cells in the ARC was not affected by ARC Dyn-SAP treatment. Dyn-KOR signaling within the ARC seems to mediate the suppression of the frequency of pulsatile GnRH/LH release, and ARC non-KNDy KOR neurons may be involved in the mechanism modulating GnRH/LH pulse generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingdao Dai
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Sho Nakamura
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Chudai Takahashi
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Marimo Sato
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Arisa Munetomo
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Fumie Magata
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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23
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Uenoyama Y, Inoue N, Nakamura S, Tsukamura H. Kisspeptin Neurons and Estrogen-Estrogen Receptor α Signaling: Unraveling the Mystery of Steroid Feedback System Regulating Mammalian Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179229. [PMID: 34502135 PMCID: PMC8430864 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen produced by ovarian follicles plays a key role in the central mechanisms controlling reproduction via regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release by its negative and positive feedback actions in female mammals. It has been well accepted that estrogen receptor α (ERα) mediates both estrogen feedback actions, but precise targets had remained as a mystery for decades. Ever since the discovery of kisspeptin neurons as afferent ERα-expressing neurons to govern GnRH neurons, the mechanisms mediating estrogen feedback are gradually being unraveled. The present article overviews the role of kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARC), which are considered to drive pulsatile GnRH/gonadotropin release and folliculogenesis, in mediating the estrogen negative feedback action, and the role of kisspeptin neurons located in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus-periventricular nucleus (AVPV-PeN), which are thought to drive GnRH/luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and consequent ovulation, in mediating the estrogen positive feedback action. This implication has been confirmed by the studies showing that estrogen-bound ERα down- and up-regulates kisspeptin gene (Kiss1) expression in the ARC and AVPV-PeN kisspeptin neurons, respectively. The article also provides the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms regulating Kiss1 expression in kisspeptin neurons by estrogen. Further, afferent ERα-expressing neurons that may regulate kisspeptin release are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan; (Y.U.); (N.I.)
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan; (Y.U.); (N.I.)
| | - Sho Nakamura
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari 794-8555, Japan;
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan; (Y.U.); (N.I.)
- Correspondence:
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Direct evidence that KNDy neurons maintain gonadotropin pulses and folliculogenesis as the GnRH pulse generator. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2009156118. [PMID: 33500349 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2009156118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse is fundamental for mammalian reproduction: GnRH pulse regimens are needed as therapies for infertile women as continuous GnRH treatment paradoxically inhibits gonadotropin release. Circumstantial evidence suggests that the hypothalamic arcuate KNDy neurons expressing kisspeptin (encoded by Kiss1), neurokinin B (encoded by Tac3), and d ynorphin A serve as a GnRH pulse generator; however, no direct evidence is currently available. Here, we show that rescuing >20% KNDy neurons by transfecting Kiss1 inside arcuate Tac3 neurons, but not outside of these neurons, recovered folliculogenesis and luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses, an indicator of GnRH pulses, in female global Kiss1 knockout (KO) rats and that >90% conditional arcuate Kiss1 KO in newly generated Kiss1-floxed rats completely suppressed LH pulses. These results first provide direct evidence that KNDy neurons are the GnRH pulse generator, and at least 20% of KNDy neurons are sufficient to maintain folliculogenesis via generating GnRH/gonadotropin pulses.
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25
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Uenoyama Y, Nagae M, Tsuchida H, Inoue N, Tsukamura H. Role of KNDy Neurons Expressing Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Dynorphin A as a GnRH Pulse Generator Controlling Mammalian Reproduction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:724632. [PMID: 34566891 PMCID: PMC8458932 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.724632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence accumulated during the past two decades has demonstrated that the then-novel kisspeptin, which was discovered in 2001, the known neuropeptides neurokinin B and dynorphin A, which were discovered in 1983 and 1979, respectively, and their G-protein-coupled receptors, serve as key molecules that control reproduction in mammals. The present review provides a brief historical background and a summary of our recent understanding of the roles of hypothalamic neurons expressing kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin A, referred to as KNDy neurons, in the central mechanism underlying gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generation and subsequent tonic gonadotropin release that controls mammalian reproduction.
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Rumpler É, Skrapits K, Takács S, Göcz B, Trinh SH, Rácz G, Matolcsy A, Kozma Z, Ciofi P, Dhillo WS, Hrabovszky E. Characterization of Kisspeptin Neurons in the Human Rostral Hypothalamus. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:249-262. [PMID: 32299085 DOI: 10.1159/000507891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kisspeptin (KP) neurons in the rostral periventricular region of the 3rd ventricle (RP3V) of female rodents mediate positive estrogen feedback to gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons and, thus, play a fundamental role in the mid-cycle luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. The RP3V is sexually dimorphic, and male rodents with lower KP cell numbers are unable to mount estrogen-induced LH surges. OBJECTIVE To find and characterize the homologous KP neurons in the human brain, we studied formalin-fixed post-mortem hypothalami. METHODS Immunohistochemical techniques were used. RESULTS The distribution of KP neurons in the rostral hypothalamus overlapped with distinct subdivisions of the paraventricular nucleus. The cell numbers decreased after menopause, indicating that estrogens positively regulate KP gene expression in the rostral hypothalamus in humans, similarly to several other species. Young adult women and men had similar cell numbers, as opposed to rodents reported to have more KP neurons in the RP3V of females. Human KP neurons differed from the homologous rodent cells as well, in that they were devoid of enkephalins, galanin and tyrosine hydroxylase. Further, they did not contain known KP neuron markers of the human infundibular nucleus, neurokinin B, substance P and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript, while they received afferent input from these KP neurons. CONCLUSIONS The identification and positive estrogenic regulation of KP neurons in the human rostral hypothalamus challenge the long-held view that positive estrogen feedback may be restricted to the mediobasal part of the hypothalamus in primates and point to the need of further anatomical, molecular and functional studies of rostral hypothalamic KP neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva Rumpler
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Skrapits
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Takács
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Göcz
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sarolta H Trinh
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gergely Rácz
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Matolcsy
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Kozma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | | | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Department of Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary,
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Hrabovszky E, Takács S, Rumpler É, Skrapits K. The human hypothalamic kisspeptin system: Functional neuroanatomy and clinical perspectives. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 180:275-296. [PMID: 34225935 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-820107-7.00017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, kisspeptin neurons are the key components of the hypothalamic neuronal networks that regulate the onset of puberty, account for the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and mediate negative and positive estrogen feedback signals to GnRH neurons. Being directly connected anatomically and functionally to the hypophysiotropic GnRH system, the major kisspeptin cell groups of the preoptic area/rostral hypothalamus and the arcuate (or infundibular) nucleus, respectively, are ideally positioned to serve as key nodes which integrate various types of environmental, endocrine, and metabolic signals that can influence fertility. This chapter provides an overview of the current state of knowledge on the anatomy, functions, and plasticity of brain kisspeptin systems based on the wide literature available from different laboratory and domestic species. Then, the species-specific features of human hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons are described, covering their topography, morphology, unique neuropeptide content, plasticity, and connectivity to hypophysiotropic GnRH neurons. Some newly emerging roles of central kisspeptin signaling in behavior and finally, clinical perspectives, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Szabolcs Takács
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Éva Rumpler
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Skrapits
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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Watanabe Y, Ikegami K, Nakamura S, Uenoyama Y, Ozawa H, Maeda KI, Tsukamura H, Inoue N. Mating-induced increase in Kiss1 mRNA expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus prior to an increase in LH and testosterone release in male rats. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:579-586. [PMID: 32968033 PMCID: PMC7768167 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2020-067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin has an indispensable role in gonadotropin-releasing hormone/gonadotropin secretion in mammals. In rodents, kisspeptin neurons are located in distinct brain regions, namely the anteroventral periventricular nucleus-periventricular nucleus continuum (AVPV/PeN), arcuate nucleus (ARC), and medial amygdala (MeA). Among them, the physiological role of AVPV/PeN kisspeptin neurons in males has not been clarified yet. The present study aims to investigate the acute effects of the olfactory and/or mating stimulus with a female rat on hypothalamic and MeA Kiss1 mRNA expression, plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels in male rats. Intact male rats were exposed to the following stimuli: exposure to clean bedding; exposure to female-soiled bedding as a female-olfactory stimulus; exposure to female-soiled bedding and mating stimulus with a female rat. The mating stimulus significantly increased the number of the AVPV/PeN Kiss1 mRNA-expressing cells in males within 5 minutes after the exposure, and significantly increased LH and testosterone levels, followed by an increase in male sexual behavior. Whereas, the males exposed to female-soiled bedding showed a moderate increase in LH levels and no significant change in testosterone levels and the number of the AVPV/PeN Kiss1 mRNA-expressing cells. Importantly, none of the stimuli affected the number of Kiss1 mRNA-expressing cells in the ARC and MeA. These results suggest that the mating-induced increase in AVPV/PeN Kiss1 mRNA expression may be, at least partly, involved in stimulating LH and testosterone release, and might consequently ensure male mating behavior. This study would be the first report suggesting that the AVPV/PeN kisspeptin neurons in males may play a physiological role in ensuring male reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youki Watanabe
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo113-0031, Japan
| | - Kana Ikegami
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Sho Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ozawa
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo113-0031, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Maeda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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Oshimo Y, Munetomo A, Magata F, Suetomi Y, Sonoda S, Takeuchi Y, Tsukamura H, Ohkura S, Matsuda F. Estrogen increases KISS1 expression in newly generated immortalized KISS1-expressing cell line derived from goat preoptic area. J Reprod Dev 2020; 67:15-23. [PMID: 33100283 PMCID: PMC7902218 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2020-053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin neurons located in the hypothalamic preoptic area (POA) are suggested to be responsible for the induction of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone
(GnRH) surge and the following luteinizing hormone (LH) surge to regulate female mammals’ ovulation. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that the preovulatory
level of estrogen activates the POA kisspeptin neurons (estrogen positive feedback), which in turn induces a GnRH/LH surge. This study aimed to derive a cell
line from goat POA kisspeptin neurons as an in vitro model to analyze the estrogen positive feedback mechanism in ruminants. Neuron-derived
cell clones obtained by the immortalization of POA tissue from a female Shiba goat fetus were analyzed for the expression of kisspeptin (KISS1)
and estrogen receptor α (ESR1) genes using quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and three cell clones were
selected as POA kisspeptin neuron cell line candidates. One cell line (GP64) out of the three clones showed significant increase in the KISS1
level by incubation with estradiol for 24 h, indicating that the GP64 cells mimic endogenous goat POA kisspeptin neurons. The GP64 cells showed
immunoreactivities for kisspeptin and estrogen receptor α and retained a stable growth rate throughout three passages. Further, intracellular calcium levels in
the GP64 cells were increased by the KCl challenge, indicating their neurosecretory ability. In conclusion, we generated a new KISS1-expressing
cell line derived from goat POA. The current GP64 cell line could be a useful model to elucidate the estrogen positive feedback mechanism responsible for the
GnRH/LH surge generation in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukina Oshimo
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Arisa Munetomo
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Fumie Magata
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yuta Suetomi
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Shuhei Sonoda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukari Takeuchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ohkura
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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Matsuda F, Ohkura S, Magata F, Munetomo A, Chen J, Sato M, Inoue N, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. Role of kisspeptin neurons as a GnRH surge generator: Comparative aspects in rodents and non-rodent mammals. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:2318-2329. [PMID: 31608564 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Ovulation is an essential phenomenon for reproduction in mammalian females along with follicular growth. It is well established that gonadal function is controlled by the neuroendocrine system called the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, localized in the hypothalamus, had been considered to be the head in governing the HPG axis for a long time until the discovery of kisspeptin. In females, induction of ovulation and folliculogenesis has been linked to a surge mode and pulse mode of GnRH releases, respectively. The mechanisms of how the two modes of GnRH are differently regulated had long remained elusive. The discovery of kisspeptin neurons, distributed in two hypothalamic nuclei, such as the arcuate nucleus in the caudal hypothalamus and preoptic area or the anteroventral periventricular nucleus in the rostral hypothalamic regions, and analyses of the detailed functions of kisspeptin neurons have led marked progress on the understanding of different mechanisms regulating GnRH surges (ovulation) and GnRH pulses (folliculogenesis). The present review will focus on the role of kisspeptin neurons as the GnRH surge generator, including the sexual differentiation of the surge generation system and factors that regulate the surge generator. Comparative aspects between mammalian species are especially focused on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuko Matsuda
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ohkura
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Fumie Magata
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Arisa Munetomo
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jing Chen
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marimo Sato
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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Ainani H, El Bousmaki N, Poirel VJ, Achaâban MR, Ouassat M, Piro M, Klosen P, Simonneaux V, El Allali K. The dromedary camel displays annual variation in hypothalamic kisspeptin and Arg-Phe-amide-related peptide-3 according to sex, season, and breeding activity. J Comp Neurol 2019; 528:32-47. [PMID: 31251823 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) is a desert mammal whose cycles in reproductive activity ensure that the offspring's birth and weaning coincide with periods of abundant food resources and favorable climate conditions. In this study, we assessed whether kisspeptin (Kp) and arginine-phenylalanine (RF)-amide related peptide-3 (RFRP-3), two hypothalamic peptides known to regulate the mammalian hypothalamo-pituitary gonadal axis, may be involved in the seasonal control of camel's reproduction. Using specific antibodies and riboprobes, we found that Kp neurons are present in the preoptic area (POA), suprachiasmatic (SCN), and arcuate (ARC) nuclei, and that RFRP-3 neurons are present in the paraventricular (PVN), dorsomedial (DMH), and ventromedial (VMH) hypothalamic nuclei. Kp fibers are found in various hypothalamic areas, notably the POA, SCN, PVN, DMH, VMH, supraoptic nucleus, and the ventral and dorsal premammillary nucleus. RFRP-3 fibers are found in the POA, SCN, PVN, DMH, VMH, and ARC. POA and ARC Kp neurons and DMH RFRP-3 neurons display sexual dimorphism with more neurons in female than in male. Both neuronal populations display opposed seasonal variations with more Kp neurons and less RFRP-3 neurons during the breeding (December-January) than the nonbreeding (July-August) season. This study is the first describing Kp and RFRP-3 in the camel's brain with, during the winter period lower RFRP-3 expression and higher Kp expression possibly responsible for the HPG axis activation. Altogether, our data indicate the involvement of both Kp and RFRP-3 in the seasonal control of the dromedary camel's breeding activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Ainani
- Comparative Anatomy Unit, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco.,Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS UPR 3212, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Najlae El Bousmaki
- Comparative Anatomy Unit, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Vincent-Joseph Poirel
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS UPR 3212, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mohamed Rachid Achaâban
- Comparative Anatomy Unit, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Ouassat
- Comparative Anatomy Unit, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Piro
- Medicine and Surgical Unit of Domestic animals, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Paul Klosen
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS UPR 3212, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valérie Simonneaux
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS UPR 3212, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Khalid El Allali
- Comparative Anatomy Unit, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat Instituts, Rabat, Morocco
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Majarune S, Nima P, Sugimoto A, Nagae M, Inoue N, Tsukamura H, Uenoyama Y. Ad libitum feeding triggers puberty onset associated with increases in arcuate Kiss1 and Pdyn expression in growth-retarded rats. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:397-406. [PMID: 31155522 PMCID: PMC6815743 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows that puberty onset is largely dependent on body weight rather than chronological age. To investigate the mechanism involved in the energetic control of puberty
onset, the present study examined effects of chronic food restriction during the prepubertal period and the resumption of ad libitum feeding for 24 and 48 h on estrous
cyclicity, Kiss1 (kisspeptin gene), Tac3 (neurokinin B gene) and Pdyn (dynorphin A gene) expression in the hypothalamus, luteinizing
hormone (LH) secretion and follicular development in female rats. When animals weighed 75 g, they were subjected to a restricted feeding to retard growth to 70–80 g by 49 days of age. Then,
animals were subjected to ad libitum feeding or remained food-restricted. The growth-retarded rats did not show puberty onset associated with suppression of both
Kiss1 and Pdyn expression in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). 24-h ad libitum feeding increased tonic LH secretion and the number of Graafian
and non-Graafian tertiary follicles with an increase in the numbers of ARC Kiss1- and Pdyn-expressing cells. 48-h ad libitum feeding
induced the vaginal proestrus and a surge-like LH increase with an increase in Kiss1-expressing cells in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV). These results
suggest that the negative energy balance causes pubertal failure with suppression of ARC Kiss1 and Pdyn expression and then subsequent gonadotropin
secretion and ovarian function, while the positive energetic cues trigger puberty onset via an increase in ARC Kiss1 and Pdyn expression and thus
gonadotropin secretion and follicular development in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutisa Majarune
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Pelden Nima
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Arisa Sugimoto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Mayuko Nagae
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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Amelkina O, Tanyapanyachon P, Thongphakdee A, Chatdarong K. Identification of feline Kiss1 and distribution of immunoreactive kisspeptin in the hypothalamus of the domestic cat. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:335-343. [PMID: 31142694 PMCID: PMC6708855 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-101] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the Kiss1 gene has been reported in a number of vertebrate species, and a substantial dataset has been acquired to demonstrate the critical role of
kisspeptins in the reproductive system; yet limited information is available for carnivores. In the present study, we identified and characterized feline Kiss1 by isolating
and cloning its full-length cDNA in the domestic cat hypothalamus and caracal testis, using the method of rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Additionally, we isolated and cloned the 3′ end of
Kiss1 cDNA, containing kisspeptin-10 (Kp10), from the ovaries of a clouded leopard and Siberian tiger. Nucleotide sequencing revealed that domestic cat
Kiss1 cDNA is of 711 base pairs and caracal Kiss1 cDNA is of 792 base pairs, both having an open reading frame of 450 base pairs, encoding a precursor
protein Kiss1 of 149 amino acids. The core sequence of the feline kisspeptin Kp10 was found to be identical in all species analyzed here and is highly conserved in other
vertebrate species. Using an anti-Kp10 antibody, we found the immunoreactive kisspeptin to be localized in the periventricular and infundibular nuclei of the cat hypothalamus. The results
show that kisspeptin is highly conserved among different feline families, and its immunoreactive distribution in the hypothalamus may indicate its physiological function in the domestic
cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Amelkina
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.,Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20013, USA
| | - Prattana Tanyapanyachon
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Ampika Thongphakdee
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Hu KL, Chang HM, Li R, Yu Y, Qiao J. Regulation of LH secretion by RFRP-3 - From the hypothalamus to the pituitary. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 52:12-21. [PMID: 29608929 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) have long been identified as inhibitors of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis in mammals. However, less progress has been made in the detailed roles of RFRPs in the control of LH secretion. Recent studies have suggested that RFRP-3 neurons in the hypothalamus can regulate the secretion of LH at different levels, including kisspeptin neurons, GnRH neurons, and the pituitary. Additionally, conflicting results regarding the effects of RFRP-3 on these levels exist. In this review, we collect the latest evidence related to the effects of RFRP-3 neurons in regulating LH secretion by acting on kisspeptin neurons, GnRH neurons, and the pituitary and discuss the potential role of the timely reduction of RFRP-3 signaling in the modulation of the preovulatory LH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Lun Hu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Rong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
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Uenoyama Y, Inoue N, Nakamura S, Tsukamura H. Central Mechanism Controlling Pubertal Onset in Mammals: A Triggering Role of Kisspeptin. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:312. [PMID: 31164866 PMCID: PMC6536648 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pubertal onset is thought to be timed by an increase in pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/gonadotropin secretion in mammals. The underlying mechanism of pubertal onset in mammals is still an open question. Evidence accumulated in the last 15 years suggests that kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin A (KNDy) neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus play a key role in pubertal onset by triggering pulsatile GnRH/gonadotropin secretin in mammals. Specifically, KNDy neurons are now considered a part of GnRH pulse generator, in which neurokinin B facilitates and dynorphin A inhibits, the synchronized discharge of KNDy neurons in autocrine and/or paracrine manners. Kisspeptin serves as a potent secretagogue of GnRH secretion and thus its release is fundamental to pubertal increase in GnRH/gonadotropin secretion in mammals. Proposed mechanisms inhibiting Kiss1 (kisspeptin gene) expression during childhood to juvenile varies from species to species: we envisage that negative feedback action of estrogen plays a key role in the inhibition of Kiss1 expression in KNDy neurons in rodents and sheep, whereas estrogen-independent inhibition of kisspeptin secretion by γ-amino butyric acid or neuropeptide Y are suggested to be responsible for the pre-pubertal suppression of GnRH/gonadotropin secretion in primates. Taken together, the timing of pubertal onset is postulated to be controlled by upstream regulators for kisspeptin biosynthesis and secretion in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- *Correspondence: Yoshihisa Uenoyama
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sho Nakamura
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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Simonneaux V. A Kiss to drive rhythms in reproduction. Eur J Neurosci 2018; 51:509-530. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Simonneaux
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et IntégrativesCNRSUniversité de Strasbourg Strasbourg France
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Hugon-Rodin J, Yoshii K, Lahlou N, Flandrin J, Gompel A, de Roux N. Complete Kisspeptin Receptor Inactivation Does Not Impede Exogenous GnRH-Induced LH Surge in Humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:4482-4490. [PMID: 30124894 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Mutations in the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R) gene have been reported in a few patients with normosmic congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nCHH) (OMIM #146110). OBJECTIVES To describe a female patient with nCHH and a novel homozygous KISS1R mutation and to assess the role of kisspeptin pathway to induce an ovulation by GnRH pulse therapy. DESIGN, SETTING, AND INTERVENTION Observational study of a patient including genetic and kisspeptin receptor functions and treatment efficiency using a GnRH pump. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Response to pulsatile GnRH therapy. RESULTS A partial isolated gonadotropic deficiency was diagnosed in a 28-year-old woman with primary amenorrhea and no breast development. A novel homozygous c.953T>C variant was identified in KISS1R. This mutation led to substitution of leucine 318 for proline (p.Leu318Pro) in the seventh transmembrane domain of KISS1R. Signaling via the mutated receptor was profoundly impaired in HEK293-transfected cells. The mutated receptor was not detected on the membrane of HEK293-transfected cells. After several pulsatile GnRH therapy cycles, an LH surge with ovulation and pregnancy was obtained. CONCLUSION GnRH pulsatile therapy can induce an LH surge in a woman with a mutated KISS1R, which was previously thought to be completely inactivated in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Hugon-Rodin
- Paris Descartes University, Gynecology Endocrinology Unit, Port-Royal Teaching Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Keisuke Yoshii
- Paris Diderot University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, U1141, Inserm, Paris, France
| | | | - Jennifer Flandrin
- Paris Descartes University, Gynecology Endocrinology Unit, Port-Royal Teaching Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Anne Gompel
- Paris Descartes University, Gynecology Endocrinology Unit, Port-Royal Teaching Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas de Roux
- Paris Diderot University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, U1141, Inserm, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Biochemistry Laboratory, Robert Debré Teaching Hospital, Paris, France
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Uenoyama Y, Inoue N, Maeda KI, Tsukamura H. The roles of kisspeptin in the mechanism underlying reproductive functions in mammals. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:469-476. [PMID: 30298825 PMCID: PMC6305848 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin, identified as a natural ligand of GPR54 in 2001, is now considered as a master regulator of puberty and subsequent reproductive functions in mammals. Our previous studies using
Kiss1 knockout (KO) rats clearly demonstrated the indispensable role of kisspeptin in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/gonadotropin secretion. In addition, behavioral
analyses of Kiss1 KO rats revealed an organizational effect of kisspeptin on neural circuits controlling sexual behaviors. Our studies using transgenic mice carrying a
region-specific Kiss1 enhancer-driven reporter gene provided a clue as to the mechanism by which estrogen regulates Kiss1 expression in hypothalamic
kisspeptin neurons. Analyses of Kiss1 expression and gonadotropin secretion during the pubertal transition shed light on the mechanism triggering GnRH/gonadotropin secretion
at the onset of puberty in rats. Here, we summarize data obtained from the aforementioned studies and revisit the physiological roles of kisspeptin in the mechanism underlying reproductive
functions in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Maeda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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Iwasa T, Matsuzaki T, Yano K, Mayila Y, Irahara M. The roles of kisspeptin and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone in stress-induced reproductive disorders. Endocr J 2018; 65:133-140. [PMID: 29375085 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej18-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Several kinds of stress suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and reproductive behavior in humans and animals. These changes can eventually cause diseases and disorders, such as amenorrhea and infertility. In previous studies, it has been shown that stress-related factors, e.g., corticotropin-releasing hormone, cortisol, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, promote the stress-induced suppression of the HPG axis. However, these mechanisms are not sufficient to explain how stress suppresses HPG axis activity, and it has been suggested that some other factors might also be involved. In the early 21st century, novel neuroendocrine peptides, kisspeptin and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH)/RFamide-related peptide 3 (RFRP-3), which directly regulate GnRH/gonadotropin synthesis and secretion, were newly discovered. Growing evidence indicates that kisspeptin and GnIH/RFRP-3 play pivotal roles in the stress-induced disruption of the HPG axis and reproductive behavior in addition to their physiological functions. This review summarizes what is currently known about the roles of kisspeptin and GnIH/RFRP-3 in stress-induced reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Toshiya Matsuzaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kiyohito Yano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yiliyasi Mayila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
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Obligatory role of hypothalamic neuroestradiol during the estrogen-induced LH surge in female ovariectomized rhesus monkeys. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:13804-13809. [PMID: 29229849 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1716097115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Negative and positive feedback effects of ovarian 17β-estradiol (E2) regulating release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are pivotal events in female reproductive function. While ovarian feedback on hypothalamo-pituitary function is a well-established concept, the present study shows that neuroestradiol, locally synthesized in the hypothalamus, is a part of estrogen's positive feedback loop. In experiment 1, E2 benzoate-induced LH surges in ovariectomized female monkeys were severely attenuated by systemic administration of the aromatase inhibitor, letrozole. Aromatase is the enzyme responsible for synthesis of E2 from androgens. In experiment 2, using microdialysis, GnRH and kisspeptin surges induced by E2 benzoate were similarly attenuated by infusion of letrozole into the median eminence of the hypothalamus. Therefore, neuroestradiol is an integral part of the hypothalamic engagement in response to elevated circulating E2 Collectively, we will need to modify the concept of estrogen's positive feedback mechanism.
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Garcia JP, Guerriero KA, Keen KL, Kenealy BP, Seminara SB, Terasawa E. Kisspeptin and Neurokinin B Signaling Network Underlies the Pubertal Increase in GnRH Release in Female Rhesus Monkeys. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3269-3280. [PMID: 28977601 PMCID: PMC5659687 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Loss-of-function or inactivating mutations in the genes coding for kisspeptin and its receptor (KISS1R) or neurokinin B (NKB) and the NKB receptor (NK3R) in humans result in a delay in or the absence of puberty. However, precise mechanisms of kisspeptin and NKB signaling in the regulation of the pubertal increase in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release in primates are unknown. In this study, we conducted a series of experiments infusing agonists and antagonists of kisspeptin and NKB into the stalk-median eminence, where GnRH, kisspeptin, and NKB neuroterminal fibers are concentrated, and measuring GnRH release in prepubertal and pubertal female rhesus monkeys. Results indicate that (1) similar to those previously reported for GnRH stimulation by the KISS1R agonist (i.e., human kisspeptin-10), the NK3R agonist senktide stimulated GnRH release in a dose-responsive manner in both prepubertal and pubertal monkeys; (2) the senktide-induced GnRH release was blocked in the presence of the KISS1R antagonist peptide 234 in pubertal but not prepubertal monkeys; and (3) the kisspeptin-induced GnRH release was blocked in the presence of the NK3R antagonist SB222200 in the pubertal but not prepubertal monkeys. These results are interpreted to mean that although, in prepubertal female monkeys, kisspeptin and NKB signaling to GnRH release is independent, in pubertal female monkeys, a reciprocal signaling mechanism between kisspeptin and NKB neurons is established. We speculate that this cooperative mechanism by the kisspeptin and NKB network underlies the pubertal increase in GnRH release in female monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P. Garcia
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | | | - Kim L. Keen
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Brian P. Kenealy
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Stephanie B. Seminara
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit and the Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
| | - Ei Terasawa
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, Wisconsin 53715
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
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Watanabe Y, Ikegami K, Ishigaki R, Ieda N, Uenoyama Y, Maeda KI, Tsukamura H, Inoue N. Enhancement of the luteinising hormone surge by male olfactory signals is associated with anteroventral periventricular Kiss1 cell activation in female rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2017; 29. [PMID: 28699305 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Olfactory stimuli play an important role in regulating reproductive functions in mammals. The present study investigated the effect of olfactory signals derived from male rats on kisspeptin neuronal activity and luteinising hormone (LH) secretion in female rats. Wistar-Imamichi strain female rats were ovariectomised (OVX) and implanted with preovulatory levels of 17β-oestradiol (E2 ). OVX+E2 rats were killed 1 hour after exposure to either: clean bedding, female-soiled bedding or male-soiled bedding. Dual staining for Kiss1 mRNA in situ hybridisation and c-Fos immunohistochemistry revealed that the numbers of Kiss1-expressing cells and c-Fos-immunopositive Kiss1-expressing cells in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) were significantly higher in OVX+E2 rats exposed to male-soiled bedding than those of the other groups. No significant difference was found with respect to the number of c-Fos-immunopositive Kiss1-expressing cells in the arcuate nucleus and c-Fos-immunopositive Gnrh1-expressing cells between the groups. The number of c-Fos-immunopositive cells was also significantly higher in the limbic system consisting of several nuclei, such as the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the cortical amygdala and the medial amygdala, in OVX+E2 rats exposed to male-soiled bedding than the other groups. OVX+E2 rats exposed to male-soiled bedding showed apparent LH surges, and the peak of the LH surge and area under the curve of LH concentrations in the OVX+E2 group were significantly higher than those of the other two groups. These results suggest that olfactory signals derived from male rats activate AVPV kisspeptin neurones, likely via the limbic system, resulting in enhancement of the peak of the LH surge in female rats. Taken together, the results of the present study suggests that AVPV kisspeptin neurones are a target of olfactory signals to modulate LH release in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Watanabe
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - K Ikegami
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - R Ishigaki
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - N Ieda
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Y Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - K I Maeda
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - N Inoue
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuronal network generates pulse and surge modes of gonadotropin secretion critical for puberty and fertility. The arcuate nucleus kisspeptin neurons that innervate the projections of GnRH neurons in and around their neurosecretory zone are key components of the pulse generator in all mammals. By contrast, kisspeptin neurons located in the preoptic area project to GnRH neuron cell bodies and proximal dendrites and are involved in surge generation in female rodents (and possibly other species). The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis develops embryonically but, apart from short periods of activation immediately after birth, remains suppressed through a combination of gonadal and non-gonadal mechanisms. At puberty onset, the pulse generator reactivates, probably owing to progressive stimulatory influences on GnRH neurons from glial and neurotransmitter signalling, and the re-emergence of stimulatory arcuate kisspeptin input. In females, the development of pulsatile gonadotropin secretion enables final maturation of the surge generator that ultimately triggers the first ovulation. Representation of the GnRH neuronal network as a series of interlocking functional modules could help conceptualization of its functioning in different species. Insights into pulse and surge generation are expected to aid development of therapeutic strategies ameliorating pubertal disorders and infertility in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Medical Sciences, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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Uenoyama Y, Pheng V, Tsukamura H, Maeda KI. The roles of kisspeptin revisited: inside and outside the hypothalamus. J Reprod Dev 2016; 62:537-545. [PMID: 27478063 PMCID: PMC5177970 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2016-083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin, encoded by KISS1/Kiss1 gene, is now considered a master regulator of reproductive functions in mammals owing to
its involvement in the direct activation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons after binding to its cognate receptor, GPR54. Ever since the discovery
of kisspeptin, intensive studies on hypothalamic expression of KISS1/Kiss1 and on physiological roles of hypothalamic
kisspeptin neurons have provided clues as to how the brain controls sexual maturation at the onset of puberty and subsequent reproductive performance in
mammals. Additionally, emerging evidence indicates the potential involvement of extra-hypothalamic kisspeptin in reproductive functions. Here, we summarize data
regarding kisspeptin inside and outside the hypothalamus and revisit the physiological roles of central and peripheral kisspeptins in the reproductive functions
of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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Trujillo MV, Kalil1 B, Ramaswamy S, Plant TM. Estradiol Upregulates Kisspeptin Expression in the Preoptic Area of both the Male and Female Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta): Implications for the Hypothalamic Control of Ovulation in Highly Evolved Primates. Neuroendocrinology 2016; 105:77-89. [PMID: 27454155 PMCID: PMC5266750 DOI: 10.1159/000448520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this immunohistochemical study was to evaluate the distribution of kisspeptin neurons in the preoptic area (POA) of gonadally intact adult male and female rhesus monkeys, and to determine whether imposition of an estradiol (E2)-positive feedback signal in the castrate male increased kisspeptin in the POA. Additionally, kisspeptin in the POA of the intact female was examined during an LH surge induced prematurely by E2 administered in the early follicular phase. The number of kisspeptin neurons in the POA of males and females was similar. Immunoactive kisspeptin perikarya were not observed in the POA of castrate adult males, but such neurons in these animals were present within 12 h of imposing an increment in circulating E2 concentrations that in a screening study conducted 4-6 weeks earlier had elicited an LH surge. As expected, premature induction of an LH surge by E2 early in the follicular phase was associated with upregulation of kisspeptin in the POA. These results represent the first description of immunoreactive kisspeptin cell bodies in the POA of the macaque brain and provide further support for the view that (1) kisspeptin neurons in the POA of the female monkey are a target for the positive feedback action of E2 and (2) the hypothalamic mechanism which mediates this action of E2 in primates is not subjected to perinatal programming by testicular testosterone. Moreover, our findings indicate that maintenance of the kisspeptin content in the POA of intact male monkeys requires the action of E2, presumably generated by aromatization of testicular testosterone at the hypothalamic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Vargas Trujillo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
- Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, PA, USA
| | - Bruna Kalil1
- Department of Physiology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Suresh Ramaswamy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tony M. Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Hassaneen A, Naniwa Y, Suetomi Y, Matsuyama S, Kimura K, Ieda N, Inoue N, Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H, Maeda KI, Matsuda F, Ohkura S. Immunohistochemical characterization of the arcuate kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin (KNDy) and preoptic kisspeptin neuronal populations in the hypothalamus during the estrous cycle in heifers. J Reprod Dev 2016; 62:471-477. [PMID: 27349533 PMCID: PMC5081734 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2016-075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Elucidating the physiological mechanisms that control reproduction is an obvious strategy for improving the fertility of cattle and developing new agents to
control reproductive functions. The present study aimed to identify kisspeptin neurons in the bovine hypothalamus, clarifying that a central mechanism is also
present in the cattle brain, as kisspeptin is known to play an important role in the stimulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/gonadotropin secretion
in other mammals. To characterize kisspeptin neurons in the bovine hypothalamus, the co-localizations of kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB) or kisspeptin and
dynorphin A (Dyn) were examined. Hypothalamic tissue was collected from Japanese Black or Japanese Black × Holstein crossbred cows during the follicular and
luteal phases. Brain sections, including the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and the preoptic area (POA), were dual immunostained with kisspeptin and either NKB or Dyn.
In the ARC, both NKB and Dyn were co-localized in kisspeptin neurons during both the follicular and luteal phases, demonstrating the presence of
kisspeptin/NKB/Dyn-containing neurons, referred to as KNDy neurons, in cows. In the POA, no co-localization of kisspeptin with either NKB or Dyn was detected.
Kisspeptin expression in the follicular phase was higher than that in the luteal phase, suggesting that kisspeptin expression in the POA is positively
controlled by estrogen in cows. The kisspeptin neuronal populations in the ARC and POA likely play important roles in regulating the GnRH pulse and surge,
respectively, in cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hassaneen
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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Uenoyama Y, Tomikawa J, Inoue N, Goto T, Minabe S, Ieda N, Nakamura S, Watanabe Y, Ikegami K, Matsuda F, Ohkura S, Maeda KI, Tsukamura H. Molecular and Epigenetic Mechanism Regulating Hypothalamic Kiss1 Gene Expression in Mammals. Neuroendocrinology 2016; 103:640-9. [PMID: 26964105 DOI: 10.1159/000445207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
After the discovery of hypothalamic kisspeptin encoded by the Kiss1 gene, the central mechanism regulating gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, and hence gonadotropin secretion, is gradually being unraveled. This has increased our understanding of the central mechanism regulating puberty and subsequent reproductive performance in mammals. Recently, emerging evidence has indicated the molecular and epigenetic mechanism regulating hypothalamic Kiss1 gene expression. Here we compile data regarding DNA and histone modifications in the Kiss1 promoter region and provide a hypothetic scheme of the molecular and epigenetic mechanism regulating Kiss1 gene expression in two populations of hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons, which govern puberty and subsequent reproductive performance via GnRH/gonadotropin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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Maggi R, Cariboni AM, Marelli MM, Moretti RM, Andrè V, Marzagalli M, Limonta P. GnRH and GnRH receptors in the pathophysiology of the human female reproductive system. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 22:358-81. [PMID: 26715597 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human reproduction depends on an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has been recognized, since its identification in 1971, as the central regulator of the production and release of the pituitary gonadotrophins that, in turn, regulate the gonadal functions and the production of sex steroids. The characteristic peculiar development, distribution and episodic activity of GnRH-producing neurons have solicited an interdisciplinary interest on the etiopathogenesis of several reproductive diseases. The more recent identification of a GnRH/GnRH receptor (GnRHR) system in both the human endometrium and ovary has widened the spectrum of action of the peptide and of its analogues beyond its hypothalamic function. METHODS An analysis of research and review articles published in international journals until June 2015 has been carried out to comprehensively summarize both the well established and the most recent knowledge on the physiopathology of the GnRH system in the central and peripheral control of female reproductive functions and diseases. RESULTS This review focuses on the role of GnRH neurons in the control of the reproductive axis. New knowledge is accumulating on the genetic programme that drives GnRH neuron development to ameliorate the diagnosis and treatment of GnRH deficiency and consequent delayed or absent puberty. Moreover, a better understanding of the mechanisms controlling the episodic release of GnRH during the onset of puberty and the ovulatory cycle has enabled the pharmacological use of GnRH itself or its synthetic analogues (agonists and antagonists) to either stimulate or to block the gonadotrophin secretion and modulate the functions of the reproductive axis in several reproductive diseases and in assisted reproduction technology. Several inputs from other neuronal populations, as well as metabolic, somatic and age-related signals, may greatly affect the functions of the GnRH pulse generator during the female lifespan; their modulation may offer new possible strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A GnRH/GnRHR system is also expressed in female reproductive tissues (e.g. endometrium and ovary), both in normal and pathological conditions. The expression of this system in the human endometrium and ovary supports its physiological regulatory role in the processes of trophoblast invasion of the maternal endometrium and embryo implantation as well as of follicular development and corpus luteum functions. The GnRH/GnRHR system that is expressed in diseased tissues of the female reproductive tract (both benign and malignant) is at present considered an effective molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for these pathologies. GnRH agonists are also considered as a promising therapeutic approach to counteract ovarian failure in young female patients undergoing chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Increasing knowledge about the regulation of GnRH pulsatile release, as well as the therapeutic use of its analogues, offers interesting new perspectives in the diagnosis, treatment and outcome of female reproductive disorders, including tumoral and iatrogenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Montagnani Marelli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Roberta Manuela Moretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Andrè
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
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