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Abstract
Endothelial cells are important constituents of blood vessels and play a critical role in vascular homeostasis. They do not only control the exchanges between the blood and the surrounding tissues, but are also essential in regulating blood flow, modulating immune-cell trafficking and controlling vascular growth and repair. Endothelial dysfunction leads to cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by deficiency in secretion of vasodilator molecules, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), expression of adhesion molecules and excretion of proinflammatory cytokines. The sex hormones, estrogens, androgens and progestogens, regulate endothelial functions. Because cardiovascular disease risk increases after menopause, it is believed that female hormones, estrogens and progestogens promote endothelial cell health and function whereas androgens, the male hormones, might be detrimental. However, as illustrated in the present review, the picture might not be that simple. In addition, sex influences endothelial cell physiology independently of sex hormones but at genetic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Robert
- University Hospital of Zurich, Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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2
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Xu F, Ma J, Wang X, Wang X, Fang W, Sun J, Li Z, Liu J. The Role of G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) in Vascular Pathology and Physiology. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1410. [PMID: 37759810 PMCID: PMC10526873 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Estrogen is indispensable in health and disease and mainly functions through its receptors. The protection of the cardiovascular system by estrogen and its receptors has been recognized for decades. Numerous studies with a focus on estrogen and its receptor system have been conducted to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Although nuclear estrogen receptors, including estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-β, have been shown to be classical receptors that mediate genomic effects, studies now show that GPER mainly mediates rapid signaling events as well as transcriptional regulation via binding to estrogen as a membrane receptor. With the discovery of selective synthetic ligands for GPER and the utilization of GPER knockout mice, significant progress has been made in understanding the function of GPER. In this review, the tissue and cellular localizations, endogenous and exogenous ligands, and signaling pathways of GPER are systematically summarized in diverse physiological and diseased conditions. This article further emphasizes the role of GPER in vascular pathology and physiology, focusing on the latest research progress and evidence of GPER as a promising therapeutic target in hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Thus, selective regulation of GPER by its agonists and antagonists have the potential to be used in clinical practice for treating such diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fujie Xu
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710068, China; (F.X.); (W.F.); (J.S.)
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Jipeng Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Xiaowu Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Xiaoya Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Weiyi Fang
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710068, China; (F.X.); (W.F.); (J.S.)
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Jingwei Sun
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710068, China; (F.X.); (W.F.); (J.S.)
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Zilin Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Jincheng Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (J.M.); (X.W.); (X.W.)
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G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor Expression in Rat Uterine Artery Is Increased by Pregnancy and Induces Dilation in a Ca2+ and ERK1/2 Dependent Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115996. [PMID: 35682675 PMCID: PMC9180712 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing levels of estrogens across gestation are partly responsible for the physiological adaptations of the maternal vasculature to pregnancy. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) mediates acute vasorelaxing effects in the uterine vasculature, which may contribute to the regulation of uteroplacental blood flow. The aim of this study was to investigate whether GPER expression and vasorelaxation may occur following pregnancy. Elucidation of the functional signalling involved was also investigated. Radial uterine and third-order mesenteric arteries were isolated from non-pregnant (NP) and pregnant rats (P). GPER mRNA levels were determined and—concentration–response curve to the GPER-specific agonist, G1 (10−10–10−6 M), was assessed in arteries pre-constricted with phenylephrine. In uterine arteries, GPER mRNA expression was significantly increased and vasorelaxation to G1 was significantly enhanced in P compared with NP rats. Meanwhile, in mesenteric arteries, there was a similar order of magnitude in NP and P rats. Inhibition of L-type calcium channels and extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 significantly reduced vasorelaxation triggered by G1 in uterine arteries. Increased GPER expression and GPER-mediated vasorelaxation are associated with the advancement of gestation in uterine arteries. The modulation of GPER is exclusive to uterine arteries, thus suggesting a physiological contribution of GPER toward the regulation of uteroplacental blood flow during pregnancy.
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The Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping of Rice Plant and the Components of Its Extract Confirmed the Anti-Inflammatory and Platelet Aggregation Effects In Vitro and In Vivo. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10111691. [PMID: 34829563 PMCID: PMC8615199 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10111691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Unpredictable climate change might cause serious lack of food in the world. Therefore, in the present world, it is urgent to prepare countermeasures to solve problems in terms of human survival. In this research, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were analyzed when rice attacked by white backed planthopper (WBPH) were analyzed using 120 Cheongcheong/Nagdong double haploid lines. Moreover, from the detected QTLs, WBPH resistance-related genes were screened in large candidate genes. Among them, OsCM, a major gene in the synthesis of Cochlioquinone-9 (cq-9), was screened. OsCM has high homology with the sequence of chorismate mutase, and exists in various functional and structural forms in plants that produce aromatic amino acids. It also induces resistance to biotic stress through the synthesis of secondary metabolites in plants. The WBPH resistance was improved in rice overexpressed through map-based cloning of the WBPH resistance-related gene OsCM, which was finally detected by QTL mapping. In addition, cq-9 increased the survival rate of caecal ligation puncture (CLP)-surgery mice by 60%. Moreover, the aorta of rat treated with cq-9 was effective in vasodilation response and significantly reduced the aggregation of rat platelets induced by collagen treatment. A cq-9, which is strongly associated with resistance to WBPH in rice, is also associated with positive effect of CLP surgery mice survival rate, vasodilation, and significantly reduced rat platelet aggregation induced by collagen treatment. Therefore, cq-9 presents research possibilities as a substance in a new paradigm that can act on both Plant-Insect in response to the present unpredictable future.
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Tutzauer J, Gonzalez de Valdivia E, Swärd K, Alexandrakis Eilard I, Broselid S, Kahn R, Olde B, Leeb-Lundberg LMF. Ligand-independent G protein-coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER)/GPR30 Activity: Lack of receptor-dependent effects of G-1 and 17β-estradiol.. Mol Pharmacol 2021; 100:271-282. [PMID: 34330822 PMCID: PMC8626787 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein–coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) is a membrane receptor reported to bind 17β-estradiol (E2) and mediate rapid nongenomic estrogen responses, hence also named G protein–coupled estrogen receptor. G-1 is a proposed GPR30-specific agonist that has been used to implicate the receptor in several pathophysiological events. However, controversy surrounds the role of GPR30 in G-1 and E2 responses. We investigated GPR30 activity in the absence and presence of G-1 and E2 in several eukaryotic systems ex vivo and in vitro in the absence and presence of the receptor. Ex vivo activity was addressed using the caudal artery from wild-type (WT) and GPR30 knockout (KO) mice, and in vitro activity was addressed using a HeLa cell line stably expressing a synthetic multifunctional promoter (nuclear factor κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription, activator protein 1)–luciferase construct (HFF11 cells) and a human GPR30-inducible T-REx system (T-REx HFF11 cells), HFF11 and human embryonic kidney 293 cells transiently expressing WT GPR30 and GPR30 lacking the C-terminal PDZ (postsynaptic density-95/discs-large /zonula occludens-1 homology) motif SSAV, and yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae transformed to express GPR30. WT and KO arteries exhibited similar contractile responses to 60 mM KCl and 0.3 μM cirazoline, and G-1 relaxed both arteries with the same potency and efficacy. Furthermore, expression of GPR30 did not introduce any responses to 1 μM G-1 and 0.1 μM E2 in vitro. On the other hand, receptor expression caused considerable ligand-independent activity in vitro, which was receptor PDZ motif-dependent in mammalian cells. We conclude from these results that GPR30 exhibits ligand-independent activity in vitro but no G-1– or E2-stimulated activity in any of the systems used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Tutzauer
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | | | - Karl Swärd
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | | | - Stefan Broselid
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Robin Kahn
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Björn Olde
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Sweden
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6
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Delgado NTB, Rouver WDN, Freitas-Lima LC, Vieira-Alves I, Lemos VS, Dos Santos RL. Sex Differences in the Vasodilation Mediated by G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) in Hypertensive Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:659291. [PMID: 34393807 PMCID: PMC8359777 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.659291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The protective effect of estrogen on the vasculature cannot be explained only by its action through the receptors ERα and ERβ. G protein-coupled estrogen receptors (GPER)-which are widely distributed throughout the cardiovascular system-may also be involved in this response. However, little is known about GPER actions in hypertension. Therefore, in this study we evaluated the vascular response mediated by GPER using a specific agonist, G-1, in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). We hypothesized that G-1 would induce a relaxing response in resistance mesenteric arteries from SHR of both sexes. Methods G-1 concentration-response curves (1 nM-10 μM) were performed in mesenteric arteries from SHR of both sexes (10-12-weeks-old, weighing 180-250 g). The effects of G-1 were evaluated before and after endothelial removal and incubation for 30 min with the inhibitors L-NAME (300 μM) and indomethacin (10 μM) alone or combined with clotrimazole (0.75 μM) or catalase (1,000 units/mL). GPER immunolocalization was also investigated, and vascular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and ROS were evaluated using dichlorofluorescein (DCF) and dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, respectively. Results GPER activation promoted a similar relaxing response in resistance mesenteric arteries of female and male hypertensive rats, but with the participation of different endothelial mediators. Males appear to be more dependent on the NO pathway, followed by the H2O2 pathway, and females on the endothelium and H2O2 pathway. Conclusion These findings show that the GPER agonist G-1 can induce a relaxing response in mesenteric arteries from hypertensive rats of both sexes in a similar way, albeit with differential participation of endothelial mediators. These results contribute to the understanding of GPER activation on resistance mesenteric arteries in essential hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wender do Nascimento Rouver
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | | | - Ildernandes Vieira-Alves
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Virgínia Soares Lemos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Roger Lyrio Dos Santos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
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7
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Dinh QN, Vinh A, Arumugam TV, Drummond GR, Sobey CG. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1: a novel target to treat cardiovascular disease in a sex-specific manner? Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:3849-3863. [PMID: 33948934 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
As an agonist of the classical nuclear receptors, estrogen receptor-α and -β (NR3A1/2), estrogen has been assumed to inhibit the development of cardiovascular disease in premenopausal women. Indeed, reduced levels of estrogen after menopause are believed to contribute to accelerated morbidity and mortality rates in women. However, estrogen replacement therapy has variable effects on cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women, including increased serious adverse events. Interestingly, preclinical studies have shown that selective activation of the novel membrane-associated G protein-coupled estrogen receptor, GPER, can promote cardiovascular protection. These benefits are more evident in ovariectomised than intact females or in males. It is therefore possible that selective targeting of the GPER in postmenopausal women could provide cardiovascular protection with fewer adverse effects that are caused by conventional 'receptor non-specific' estrogen replacement therapy. This review describes new data regarding the merits of targeting GPER to treat cardiovascular disease with a focus on sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quynh Nhu Dinh
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Antony Vinh
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thiruma V Arumugam
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Grant R Drummond
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher G Sobey
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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Tran QK. Reciprocality Between Estrogen Biology and Calcium Signaling in the Cardiovascular System. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:568203. [PMID: 33133016 PMCID: PMC7550652 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.568203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-Estradiol (E2) is the main estrogenic hormone in the body and exerts many cardiovascular protective effects. Via three receptors known to date, including estrogen receptors α (ERα) and β (ERβ) and the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER, aka GPR30), E2 regulates numerous calcium-dependent activities in cardiovascular tissues. Nevertheless, effects of E2 and its receptors on components of the calcium signaling machinery (CSM), the underlying mechanisms, and the linked functional impact are only beginning to be elucidated. A picture is emerging of the reciprocality between estrogen biology and Ca2+ signaling. Therein, E2 and GPER, via both E2-dependent and E2-independent actions, moderate Ca2+-dependent activities; in turn, ERα and GPER are regulated by Ca2+ at the receptor level and downstream signaling via a feedforward loop. This article reviews current understanding of the effects of E2 and its receptors on the cardiovascular CSM and vice versa with a focus on mechanisms and combined functional impact. An overview of the main CSM components in cardiovascular tissues will be first provided, followed by a brief review of estrogen receptors and their Ca2+-dependent regulation. The effects of estrogenic agonists to stimulate acute Ca2+ signals will then be reviewed. Subsequently, E2-dependent and E2-independent effects of GPER on components of the Ca2+ signals triggered by other stimuli will be discussed. Finally, a case study will illustrate how the many mechanisms are coordinated to moderate Ca2+-dependent activities in the cardiovascular system.
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Fredette NC, Meyer MR, Prossnitz ER. Role of GPER in estrogen-dependent nitric oxide formation and vasodilation. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 176:65-72. [PMID: 28529128 PMCID: PMC5694388 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are potent regulators of vasomotor tone, yet underlying receptor- and ligand-specific signaling pathways remain poorly characterized. The primary physiological estrogen 17β-estradiol (E2), a non-selective agonist of classical nuclear estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) as well as the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), stimulates formation of the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) in endothelial cells. Here, we studied the contribution of GPER signaling in E2-dependent activation of endothelial NO formation and subsequent vasodilation. Employing E2 and the GPER-selective agonist G-1, we investigated eNOS phosphorylation and NO formation in human endothelial cells, and endothelium-dependent vasodilation in the aortae of wild-type and Gper-deficient mice. Both E2 and G-1 induced phosphorylation of eNOS at the activation site Ser1177 to similar extents. Endothelial NO production to E2 was comparable to that of G-1, and was substantially reduced after pharmacological inhibition of GPER. Similarly, the clinically used ER-targeting drugs 4OH-tamoxifen, raloxifene, and ICI182,780 (faslodex, fulvestrant™) induced NO formation in part via GPER. We identified c-Src, EGFR, PI3K and ERK signaling pathways to be involved in GPER-dependent NO formation. In line with activation of NO formation in cells, E2 and G-1 induced equally potent vasodilation in the aorta of wild-type mice. Gper deletion completely abrogated the vasodilator response to G-1, while reducing the response to E2 by ∼50%. These findings indicate that a substantial portion of E2-induced endothelium-dependent vasodilation and NO formation is mediated by GPER. Thus, selective targeting of vascular GPER may be a suitable approach to activate the endothelial NO pathway, possibly leading to reduced vasomotor tone and inhibition of atherosclerotic vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie C Fredette
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; Current address: Department of Pathology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Matthias R Meyer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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Debortoli AR, Rouver WDN, Delgado NTB, Mengal V, Claudio ERG, Pernomian L, Bendhack LM, Moysés MR, Santos RLD. GPER modulates tone and coronary vascular reactivity in male and female rats. J Mol Endocrinol 2017; 59:171-180. [PMID: 28733475 DOI: 10.1530/jme-16-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Compared with age-matched men, premenopausal women are largely protected from coronary artery disease, a difference that is lost after menopause. The effects of oestrogens are mediated by the activation of nuclear receptors (ERα and ERβ) and by the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER). This study aims to evaluate the potential role of GPER in coronary circulation in female and male rats. The baseline coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) and the concentration-response curve with a GPER agonist (G-1) were evaluated in isolated hearts before and after the blockade of GPER. GPER, superoxide dismutase (SOD-2), catalase and gp91phox protein expression were assessed by Western blotting. Superoxide production was evaluated 'in situ' via dihydroethidium fluorescence (DHE). GPER blockade significantly increased the CPP in both groups, demonstrating the modulation of coronary tone by GPER. G-1 causes relaxation of the coronary bed in a concentration-dependent manner and was significantly higher in female rats. No differences were detected in GPER, SOD-2 and catalase protein expression. However, gp91phox expression and DHE fluorescence were higher in male rats, indicating elevated superoxide production. Therefore, GPER plays an important role in modulating coronary tone and reactivity in female and male rats. The observed differences in vascular reactivity may be related to the higher superoxide production in male rats. These findings help to elucidate the role of GPER-modulating coronary circulation, providing new information to develop a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of coronary heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Rafaela Debortoli
- Department of Physiological SciencesHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Wender do Nascimento Rouver
- Department of Physiological SciencesHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | | | - Vinicius Mengal
- Department of Physiological SciencesHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | | | - Laena Pernomian
- Department of Physics and ChemistryFaculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences from Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lusiane Maria Bendhack
- Department of Physics and ChemistryFaculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences from Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Margareth Ribeiro Moysés
- Department of Physiological SciencesHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Roger Lyrio Dos Santos
- Department of Physiological SciencesHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
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11
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Feldman RD, Limbird LE. GPER (GPR30): A Nongenomic Receptor (GPCR) for Steroid Hormones with Implications for Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 57:567-584. [PMID: 27814026 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010716-104651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Although the rapid effects of steroids, such as estrogen and aldosterone, were postulated originally to be nongenomic, it is now appreciated that activation of such signaling pathways via a steroid-acting G protein-coupled receptor, the G protein estrogen receptor (GPER), has important transcription-dependent outcomes in the regulation of cell growth and programmed cell death secondary to GPER-regulated second-messenger pathways. GPER is expressed ubiquitously and has diverse biological effects, including regulation of endocrine, immune, neuronal, and cardiovascular functions. Perhaps the most biologically important consequences of GPER activation are the regulation of cell growth, migration, and apoptotic cell death. These cell growth regulatory effects, important in cancer biology, are also relevant in the regulation of cardiac and vascular hypertrophy and in the response to ischemia. This review provides a summary of relevant findings of the impact of GPER regulation by either estradiol or aldosterone in in vitro model systems and extends those findings to in vivo studies of direct clinical relevance for development of GPER-directed agents for treatment of cancer and cardiovascular diseases associated with cellular proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross D Feldman
- Discipline of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada A1B 3V6;
| | - Lee E Limbird
- Department of Life and Physical Sciences, Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee 37208
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12
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17β-Estradiol and Agonism of G-protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor Enhance Hippocampal Memory via Different Cell-Signaling Mechanisms. J Neurosci 2016; 36:3309-21. [PMID: 26985039 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0257-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The ability of 17β-estradiol (E2) to enhance hippocampal object recognition and spatial memory depends on rapid activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in the dorsal hippocampus (DH). Although this activation can be mediated by the intracellular estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, little is known about the role that the membrane estrogen receptor GPER plays in regulating ERK or E2-mediated memory formation. In this study, post-training DH infusion of the GPER agonist G-1 enhanced object recognition and spatial memory in ovariectomized female mice, whereas the GPER antagonist G-15 impaired memory, suggesting that GPER activation, like E2, promotes hippocampal memory formation. However, unlike E2, G-1 did not increase ERK phosphorylation, but instead significantly increased phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in the DH. Moreover, DH infusion of the JNK inhibitor SP600125 prevented G-1 from enhancing object recognition and spatial memory, but the ERK inhibitor U0126 did not. These data suggest that GPER enhances memory via different cell-signaling mechanisms than E2. This conclusion was supported by data showing that the ability of E2 to facilitate memory and activate ERK signaling was not blocked by G-15 or SP600125, which demonstrates that the memory-enhancing effects of E2 are not dependent on JNK or GPER activation in the DH. Together, these data indicate that GPER regulates memory independently from ERα and ERβ by activating JNK signaling, rather than ERK signaling. Thus, the findings suggest that GPER in the DH may not function as an estrogen receptor to regulate object recognition and spatial memory. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Although 17β-estradiol has long been known to regulate memory function, the molecular mechanisms underlying estrogenic memory modulation remain largely unknown. Here, we examined whether the putative membrane estrogen receptor GPER acts like the classical estrogen receptors, ERα and ERβ, to facilitate hippocampal memory in female mice. Although GPER activation did enhance object recognition and spatial memory, it did so by activating different cell-signaling mechanisms from ERα, ERβ, or 17β-estradiol. These data indicate that 17β-estradiol and GPER independently regulate hippocampal memory, and suggest that hippocampal GPER may not function as an estrogen receptor in the dorsal hippocampus. These findings are significant because they provide novel insights about the molecular mechanisms through which 17β-estradiol modulates hippocampal memory.
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Meyer MR, Barton M. Estrogens and Coronary Artery Disease: New Clinical Perspectives. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 77:307-60. [PMID: 27451102 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In premenopausal women, endogenous estrogens are associated with reduced prevalence of arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Clinical trials conducted in the 1990s such as HERS, WHI, and WISDOM have shown that postmenopausal treatment with horse hormone mixtures (so-called conjugated equine estrogens) and synthetic progestins adversely affects female cardiovascular health. Our understanding of rapid (nongenomic) and chronic (genomic) estrogen signaling has since advanced considerably, including identification of a new G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), which like the "classical" receptors ERα and ERβ is highly abundant in the cardiovascular system. Here, we discuss the role of estrogen receptors in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease and review natural and synthetic ligands of estrogen receptors as well as their effects in physiology, on cardiovascular risk factors, and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Data from preclinical and clinical studies using nonselective compounds activating GPER, which include selective estrogen receptor modulators such as tamoxifen or raloxifene, selective estrogen receptor downregulators such as Faslodex™ (fulvestrant/ICI 182,780), vitamin B3 (niacin), green tea catechins, and soy flavonoids such as genistein or resveratrol, strongly suggest that activation of GPER may afford therapeutic benefit for primary and secondary prevention in patients with or at risk for coronary artery disease. Evidence from preclinical studies suggest similar efficacy profiles for selective small molecule GPER agonists such as G-1 which are devoid of uterotrophic activity. Further clinical research in this area is warranted to provide opportunities for future cardiovascular drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Meyer
- Triemli City Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - M Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Zhao T, Ding Q, Hu J, He S, Shi F, Ma L. GPER expressed on microglia mediates the anti-inflammatory effect of estradiol in ischemic stroke. Brain Behav 2016; 6:e00449. [PMID: 27127723 PMCID: PMC4840664 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke could lead to serious morbidity, of which ischemic stroke counts for majority of the cases. Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke, thus drugs targeting inflammation could be potentially neuroprotective. Estradiol was shown to be neuroprotective as well as anti-inflammatory in animal models of ischemic stroke with unclear mechanism. We hypothesize that the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effect of estradiol is mediated by the estradiol receptor G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) expressed on microglia. METHODS We have generated the rat global cerebral ischemic model and the primary microglia culture to study the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effect of estradiol. We have further used pharmacological methods and siRNA knockdown approach to study the underlying mechanism. RESULTS We found that estradiol reduced the level of proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1β and TNF-α, both in vivo and in vitro. We also found that the specific GPER agonist G1 could reduce the level of IL-1β (P = 0 P = 0.0017, one-way ANOVA and post hoc test) and TNF-α (P < 0.0001) in the primary microglia culture. Moreover, the specific GPER antagonist G15 was able to abolish the anti-inflammatory effect of estradiol. Estradiol failed to reduce the level of IL-1β (P = 0.4973, unpaired Student's t-test) and TNF-α (P = 0.1627) when GPER was knocked down. CONCLUSIONS Our studies have suggested that GPER expressed on microglia mediated the anti-inflammatory effect of estradiol after ischemic stroke. Our studies could potentially help to develop more specific drugs to manage inflammation postischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian‐Zhi Zhao
- Department of NeurosurgeryWuhan General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Command of Chinese PLAWuhan430070Hubei ProvinceChina
- Department of NeurosurgeryTangdu HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityNo. 569 Xinsi RoadBaqiao DistrictXi'an710038Shanxi ProvinceChina
| | - Qian Ding
- Department of AnesthesiologyTangdu HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityNo. 569 Xinsi RoadBaqiao DistrictXi'an710038Shanxi ProvinceChina
| | - Jun Hu
- Department of NeurologyChinese PLA No. 451 HospitalXi'an710054Shanxi ProvinceChina
| | - Shi‐Ming He
- Department of NeurosurgeryTangdu HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityNo. 569 Xinsi RoadBaqiao DistrictXi'an710038Shanxi ProvinceChina
| | - Fei Shi
- Department of Aerospace BiodynamicsFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'an710032Shanxi ProvinceChina
| | - Lian‐Ting Ma
- Department of NeurosurgeryWuhan General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Command of Chinese PLAWuhan430070Hubei ProvinceChina
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Wang Z. Transactivation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor by G Protein-Coupled Receptors: Recent Progress, Challenges and Future Research. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17010095. [PMID: 26771606 PMCID: PMC4730337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17010095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Both G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and receptor-tyrosine kinases (RTKs) regulate large signaling networks, control multiple cell functions and are implicated in many diseases including various cancers. Both of them are also the top therapeutic targets for disease treatment. The discovery of the cross-talk between GPCRs and RTKs connects these two vast signaling networks and complicates the already complicated signaling networks that regulate cell signaling and function. In this review, we focus on the transactivation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a subfamily of RTKs, by GPCRs. Since the first report of EGFR transactivation by GPCR, significant progress has been made including the elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the transactivation. Here, we first provide a basic picture for GPCR, EGFR and EGFR transactivation by GPCR. We then discuss the progress made in the last five years and finally provided our view of the future challenge and future researches needed to overcome these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Wang
- The Department of Medical Genetics and Signal Transduction Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada.
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Role of G protein-coupled orphan receptors in intestinal inflammation: novel targets in inflammatory bowel diseases. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2015; 21:666-73. [PMID: 25461621 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A large number of proteins were classified into the family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Based on their characteristic serpentine domain, they are called 7 TM receptors. Presently, their ligands and physiological functions remain unknown. In this review, we summarize what is known on these receptors and discuss the potential use of these orphan GPCRs (GPRs) in the induction or maintenance of remission in inflammatory bowel diseases. We focus on GPRs 30, 41, 43, 55, 119, and 120, where scientific evidence supports a potential role in intestinal inflammation.
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Lother A, Moser M, Bode C, Feldman RD, Hein L. Mineralocorticoids in the heart and vasculature: new insights for old hormones. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2014; 55:289-312. [PMID: 25251996 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010814-124302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The mineralocorticoid aldosterone is a key regulator of water and electrolyte homeostasis. Numerous recent developments have advanced the field of mineralocorticoid pharmacology—namely, clinical trials have shown the beneficial effects of aldosterone antagonists in chronic heart failure and post-myocardial infarction treatment. Experimental studies using cell type-specific gene targeting of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) gene in mice have revealed the importance of extrarenal aldosterone signaling in cardiac myocytes, endothelial cells, vascular smooth cells, and macrophages. In addition, several molecular pathways involving signal transduction via the classical MR as well as the G protein-coupled receptor GPER mediate the diverse spectrum of effects of aldosterone on cells. This knowledge has initiated the development of new pharmacological ligands to specifically interfere with targets on different levels of aldosterone signaling. For example, aldosterone synthase inhibitors such as LCI699 and the novel nonsteroidal MR antagonist BAY 94-8862 have been tested in clinical trials. Interference with the interaction between MR and its coregulators seems to be a promising strategy toward the development of selective MR modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achim Lother
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
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Prossnitz ER, Barton M. Estrogen biology: new insights into GPER function and clinical opportunities. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 389:71-83. [PMID: 24530924 PMCID: PMC4040308 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens play an important role in the regulation of normal physiology, aging and many disease states. Although the nuclear estrogen receptors have classically been described to function as ligand-activated transcription factors mediating genomic effects in hormonally regulated tissues, more recent studies reveal that estrogens also mediate rapid signaling events traditionally associated with G protein-coupled receptors. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER (formerly GPR30) has now become recognized as a major mediator of estrogen's rapid cellular effects throughout the body. With the discovery of selective synthetic ligands for GPER, both agonists and antagonists, as well as the use of GPER knockout mice, significant advances have been made in our understanding of GPER function at the cellular, tissue and organismal levels. In many instances, the protective/beneficial effects of estrogen are mimicked by selective GPER agonism and are absent or reduced in GPER knockout mice, suggesting an essential or at least parallel role for GPER in the actions of estrogen. In this review, we will discuss recent advances and our current understanding of the role of GPER and the activity of clinically used drugs, such as SERMs and SERDs, in physiology and disease. We will also highlight novel opportunities for clinical development towards GPER-targeted therapeutics, for molecular imaging, as well as for theranostic approaches and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNM Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA.
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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