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Hooks GM, Ayala JC, Holley CL, Dhulipala V, Beggs GA, Perfect JR, Schumacher MA, Shafer WM, Brennan RG. Hormonal steroids induce multidrug resistance and stress response genes in Neisseria gonorrhoeae by binding to MtrR. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1153. [PMID: 38326294 PMCID: PMC10850145 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional regulator MtrR inhibits the expression of the multidrug efflux pump operon mtrCDE in the pathogenic bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Here, we show that MtrR binds the hormonal steroids progesterone, β-estradiol, and testosterone, which are present at urogenital infection sites, as well as ethinyl estrogen, a component of some hormonal contraceptives. Steroid binding leads to the decreased affinity of MtrR for cognate DNA, increased mtrCDE expression, and enhanced antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, we solve crystal structures of MtrR bound to each steroid, thus revealing their binding mechanisms and the conformational changes that induce MtrR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace M Hooks
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Julio C Ayala
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- STD Laboratory Reference and Research Branch, Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Concerta L Holley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Vijaya Dhulipala
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Grace A Beggs
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Maria A Schumacher
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - William M Shafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Laboratories of Microbial Pathogenesis, VA Medical Research Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
- Emory Antibiotic Resistance Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Richard G Brennan
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Abstract
There is a growing awareness of the importance of sex and gender in medicine and research. Women typically have stronger immune responses to self and foreign antigens than men, resulting in sex-based differences in autoimmunity and infectious diseases. In both animals and humans, males are generally more susceptible than females to bacterial infections. At the same time, gender differences in health-seeking behavior, quality of health care, and adherence to treatment recommendations have been reported. This review explores our current understanding of differences between males and females in bacterial diseases. We describe how genetic, immunological, hormonal, and anatomical factors interact to influence sex-based differences in pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, disease severity, and prognosis, and how gender roles affect the behavior of patients and providers in the health care system.
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Estrogen Action in the Epithelial Cells of the Mouse Vagina Regulates Neutrophil Infiltration and Vaginal Tissue Integrity. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11247. [PMID: 30050124 PMCID: PMC6062573 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29423-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the female reproductive tract, the innate immune system is modulated by two sex steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone. A cyclical wave of neutrophils in the vaginal lumen is triggered by chemokines and correlates with circulating estrogen levels. Classical estrogen signaling in the female reproductive tract is activated through estrogen receptor α (encoded by the Esr1 gene). To study the role of estrogen action in the vagina, we used a mouse model in which Esr1 was conditionally ablated from the epithelial cells (Wnt7acre/+; Esr1f/f). Histological evidence showed that in response to a physical stress, the lack of ESR1 caused the vaginal epithelium to deteriorate due to the absence of a protective cornified layer and a reduction in keratin production. In the absence of ESR1 in the vaginal epithelial tissue, we also observed an excess of neutrophil infiltration, regardless of the estrous cycle stage. The histological presence of neutrophils was found to correlate with persistent enzymatic activity in the cervical-vaginal fluid. Together, these findings suggest that ESR1 activity in the vaginal epithelial cells is required to maintain proper structural integrity of the vagina and immune response, both of which are necessary for protecting the vagina against physical damage and resetting the vaginal environment.
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Vázquez-Martínez ER, García-Gómez E, Camacho-Arroyo I, González-Pedrajo B. Sexual dimorphism in bacterial infections. Biol Sex Differ 2018; 9:27. [PMID: 29925409 PMCID: PMC6011518 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-018-0187-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex differences are important epidemiological factors that impact in the frequency and severity of infectious diseases. A clear sexual dimorphism in bacterial infections has been reported in both humans and animal models. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms involved in this gender bias are just starting to be elucidated. In the present article, we aim to review the available data in the literature that report bacterial infections presenting a clear sexual dimorphism, without considering behavioral and social factors. Main body The sexual dimorphism in bacterial infections has been mainly attributed to the differential levels of sex hormones between males and females, as well as to genetic factors. In general, males are more susceptible to gastrointestinal and respiratory bacterial diseases and sepsis, while females are more susceptible to genitourinary tract bacterial infections. However, these incidences depend on the population evaluated, animal model and the bacterial species. Female protection against bacterial infections and the associated complications is assumed to be due to the pro-inflammatory effect of estradiol, while male susceptibility to those infections is associated with the testosterone-mediated immune suppression, probably via their specific receptors. Recent studies indicate that the protective effect of estradiol depends on the estrogen receptor subtype and the specific tissue compartment involved in the bacterial insult, suggesting that tissue-specific expression of particular sex steroid receptors contributes to the susceptibility to bacterial infections. Furthermore, this gender bias also depends on the effects of sex hormones on specific bacterial species. Finally, since a large number of genes related to immune functions are located on the X chromosome, X-linked mosaicism confers a highly polymorphic gene expression program that allows women to respond with a more expanded immune repertoire as compared with men. Conclusion Notwithstanding there is increasing evidence that confirms the sexual dimorphism in certain bacterial infections and the molecular mechanisms associated, further studies are required to clarify conflicting data and to determine the role of specific hormone receptors involved in the gender bias of bacterial infections, as well as their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth García-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACyT)-Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Bertha González-Pedrajo
- Departamento de Genética Molecular, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, Av. Universidad 3000, Coyoacán, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Liu SH, Chen KF, Chen CJ, Lin YH, Huang YC. Intermittent nasal carriage with Staphylococcus aureus within a menstrual cycle: Results from a prospective cohort of healthy carriers. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4040. [PMID: 27368032 PMCID: PMC4937946 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Female sex hormones have been related to nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriage in healthy individuals; however, whether nasal staphylococcal carriage varies by menstrual cycle phase remains unknown.We sampled anterior nares of female healthcare workers twice per week for 6 consecutive menstrual cycles. We used mixed-effects Poisson regression models to determine whether intermittent carriage was associated with cycle phases in a given individual. We also performed recurrent event survival analysis to identify host factors linked to incident carriage status.Overall, we collected 754 nasal swabs over 89 consecutive person-cycles from 14 intermittent carriers. In 84 ovulation-defined menstrual cycles (715 swabs), the period prevalence of staphylococcal carriage was 58.7%, 63.1%, and 64.9% in the follicular, periovulatory, and luteal phases, respectively; these differences were not statistically significant after multivariable adjustment and correction for within-person correlation (adjusted relative risk [RR]-periovulatory 0.92, P: 0.30; luteal 1.00, P: 0.98).Using survival analysis, we identified several host factors that were associated with incident loss, gain of colonization, or both. For example, as compared to women aged 20 to 30 years, those aged 30 to 40 years were less likely to losing carriage (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09, 0.80) but were as likely to regaining carriage (HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.21, 1.34). In comparison, being underweight (body mass index [BMI] <18.5) was significantly associated with a higher risk for regaining (HR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.34, 1.51) and losing (HR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.12) colonization, indicating the alternating tendency for status changes. Personal hygiene behaviors, such as nostril cleansing habit and methods, differentially affected carriers' risk for losing or regaining staphylococcal colonization.Using an intensive sampling scheme, we found that nasal staphylococcal carriage could vary substantially over time in healthy carriers. Yet, such dynamic intraperson changes in carriage status did not depend on menstrual cycle phases but were associated with host age, BMI, and personal hygiene behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hsun Liu
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University
- Department of Family Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
| | - Kuan-Fu Chen
- Clinical Informatics and Medical Statistics Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung
- Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jung Chen
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan
| | | | - Yhu-Chering Huang
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan
- Correspondence: Yhu-Chering Huang, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fuhsin Street, Gueishan District, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan (e-mail: )
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Wira CR, Rodriguez-Garcia M, Patel MV. The role of sex hormones in immune protection of the female reproductive tract. Nat Rev Immunol 2015; 15:217-30. [PMID: 25743222 PMCID: PMC4716657 DOI: 10.1038/nri3819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within the human female reproductive tract (FRT), the challenge of protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is coupled with the need to enable successful reproduction. Oestradiol and progesterone, which are secreted during the menstrual cycle, affect epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells in the FRT to modify their functions and hence the individual's susceptibility to STIs in ways that are unique to specific sites in the FRT. The innate and adaptive immune systems are under hormonal control, and immune protection in the FRT varies with the phase of the menstrual cycle. Immune protection is dampened during the secretory phase of the cycle to optimize conditions for fertilization and pregnancy, which creates a 'window of vulnerability' during which potential pathogens can enter and infect the FRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756, USA
| | - Marta Rodriguez-Garcia
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756, USA
| | - Mickey V Patel
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756, USA
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Stark J, Varga Z, Ghidán Á, Vajdovich P, Szombath D, Marczell I, Várbíró S, Dinya E, Magyar T, Tulassay Z, Székács B, Nagy K, Rácz K, Békési G. The effect of indomethacin, myeloperoxidase, and certain steroid hormones on bactericidal activity: an ex vivo and in vivo experimental study. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2014; 13:27. [PMID: 25001579 PMCID: PMC4105879 DOI: 10.1186/1476-0711-13-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of myeloperoxidase (MPO) is essential in the killing of phagocytosed bacteria. Certain steroid hormones increase MPO plasma concentration. Our aim was to test the effect of MPO, its inhibitor indomethacin, and certain steroid hormones on bactericidal activity. METHODS Human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) were incubated with opsonised Escherichia coli and either MPO, indomethacin, estradiol, or hydrocortisone. Intracellular killing capacity was evaluated with UV microscopy after treatment with fluorescent dye. Next, an in vivo experiment was performed with nine groups of rats: in the first phase of the study indomethacin treatment and Pasteurella multocida infection (Ii), indomethacin treatment without infection (I0), untreated control with infection (Mi) and untreated control without infection (M0); in the second phase of the study rats with infection and testosterone treatment (NT), castration, infection and testosterone treatment (CT), castration, infection and estradiol treatment (CE), non-castrated infected control (N0), and castrated infected control (C0). After treatment bacteria were reisolated from the liver and heart blood on agar plates, and laboratory parameters were analyzed. For the comparison of laboratory results ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test and LSD post hoc test was used. RESULTS Indomethacin did not have a remarkable effect on the bacterial killing of PMNs, while the other compounds increased bacterial killing to various degrees. In the animal model indomethacin and infection caused a poor clinical state, a great number of reisolated bacteria, elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, decreased C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum albumin levels. Testosterone treatment resulted in less bacterial colony numbers in group NT, but not in group CT compared to respective controls (N0, C0). Estradiol treatment (CE) decreased colony numbers compared to control (C0). Hormone administration resulted in lower WBC counts, and in group CE, a decreased CRP. CONCLUSIONS MPO, estradiol, and hydrocortisone improve bacterial killing activity of PMNs. Indomethacin treatment and castration weaken immune responses and clinical state of infected rats, while testosterone and estradiol have a beneficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Stark
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Varga
- Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Institute for Veterinary Medical Research, 21. Hungaria krt., H-1143 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágoston Ghidán
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Semmelweis University, 4. Nagyvarad ter, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Vajdovich
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Szent Istvan University, Faculty of Veterinary Science, 2. Istvan u., H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dezső Szombath
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Patophysiology, Semmelweis University, 4. Nagyvarad ter, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Marczell
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Várbíró
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 78/a Ulloi ut, H-1082 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Elek Dinya
- Faculty of Health and Public Services, Institute of Health Informatics Development and Further Training, Semmelweis University, 78/b Ulloi ut, H-1082 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Magyar
- Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Institute for Veterinary Medical Research, 21. Hungaria krt., H-1143 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Tulassay
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Béla Székács
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Károly Nagy
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Semmelweis University, 4. Nagyvarad ter, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Károly Rácz
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Békési
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, 46. Szentkiralyi u., H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
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Pawlowski B, Nowak J, Borkowska BARBARA, Drulis-Kawa Z. Human body morphology, prevalence of nasopharyngeal potential bacterial pathogens, and immunocompetence handicap principal. Am J Hum Biol 2014; 26:305-10. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.22510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 12/29/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Boguslaw Pawlowski
- Department of Human Biology; University of Wroclaw; Kuznicza 35 50-138 Wroclaw Poland
| | - Judyta Nowak
- Department of Human Biology; University of Wroclaw; Kuznicza 35 50-138 Wroclaw Poland
| | - BARBARA Borkowska
- Department of Human Biology; University of Wroclaw; Kuznicza 35 50-138 Wroclaw Poland
| | - Zuzanna Drulis-Kawa
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology; University of Wroclaw; Przybyszewskiego 63/77 51-148 Wroclaw Poland
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Ermert D, Niemiec MJ, Röhm M, Glenthøj A, Borregaard N, Urban CF. Candida albicans escapes from mouse neutrophils. J Leukoc Biol 2013; 94:223-36. [PMID: 23650619 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.0213063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, the most commonly isolated human fungal pathogen, is able to grow as budding yeasts or filamentous forms, such as hyphae. The ability to switch morphology has been attributed a crucial role for the pathogenesis of C. albicans. To mimic disseminated candidiasis in humans, the mouse is the most widely used model organism. Neutrophils are essential immune cells to prevent opportunistic mycoses. To explore potential differences between the rodent infection model and the human host, we compared the interactions of C. albicans with neutrophil granulocytes from mice and humans. We revealed that murine neutrophils exhibited a significantly lower ability to kill C. albicans than their human counterparts. Strikingly, C. albicans yeast cells formed germ tubes upon internalization by murine neutrophils, eventually rupturing the neutrophil membrane and thereby, killing the phagocyte. On the contrary, growth and subsequent escape of C. albicans are blocked inside human neutrophils. According to our findings, this blockage in human neutrophils might be a result of higher levels of MPO activity and the presence of α-defensins. We therefore outline differences in antifungal immune defense between humans and mouse strains, which facilitates a more accurate interpretation of in vivo results.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ermert
- Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden, Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Sjukhusområdet 6C, 90185 Umeå, Sweden
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Stark J, Tulassay Z, Lengyel G, Szombath D, Székács B, Adler I, Marczell I, Nagy-Répas P, Dinya E, Rácz K, Békési G. Increased total scavenger capacity in rats fed corticosterone and cortisol on lipid-rich diet. ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA HUNGARICA 2013; 100:84-88. [PMID: 23232702 DOI: 10.1556/aphysiol.99.2012.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In our earlier studies both corticosterone and cortisol had antioxidant effect in vitro. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to clarify whether corticosterone and cortisol oral administration results in beneficial antioxidant changes in Sprague-Dawley adult male rats in vivo. METHODS Experimental animals were fed a lipid rich diet and treated with corticosterone or cortisol in the drinking fluid. Control group was fed only lipid rich diet with untreated drinking water. The untreated group was feda normal diet with untreated water. Total scavenger capacity (TSC) was measured before and after 4 weeks of treatment in blood samples using a chemiluminometric assay. RESULTS Both corticosterone and cortisol treatment caused increased TSC. The control group and the untreated group showed no significant changes in TSC. CONCLUSION Our results support the hypothesis that corticosterone and cortisol administration can improve the antioxidant status not only in vitro but also in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Stark
- Semmelweis University 2nd Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Budapest Hungary
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12
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Combined hormonal contraception may be protective against Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection. Sex Transm Dis 2010; 37:356-60. [PMID: 20453722 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e3181d40ff1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of hormonal contraception on acquisition of gonorrhea has not been well-characterized, as the transmission dynamics of Neisseria gonorrhoeae are poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of hormonal contraception on gonococcal infection in women exposed to males with gonococcal urethritis. METHODS Females aged 15 to 35 years reporting sexual contact to a male partner diagnosed with N. gonorrhoeae were enrolled. Demographic and sexual histories, physical findings, and laboratory tests were collected. Women testing positive and negative for cervical N. gonorrhoeae were compared using chi and Fisher exact tests, with multivariable logistic regression performed on those factors independently associated with gonococcal infection on univariate analysis. RESULTS N. gonorrhoeae infection occurred in 68 of 107 (64%) women. Women using combined hormonal contraception were significantly less likely than nonusers to test positive for N. gonorrhoeae (32% vs. 76%; prevalence ratio: 0.42; 95% confidence interval: 0.22, 0.78; P = 0.006). Gonorrhea was also less common in depomedroxyprogesterone acetate users. A new sexual partner was also associated with testing positive for gonorrhea (35% vs. 13%; prevalence ratio: 1.47; 95% confidence interval: 1.13, 1.90; P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS Women using combined hormonal contraceptives or depomedroxyprogesterone acetate were less likely to test positive for N. gonorrhoeae after sexual exposure compared with nonusers. Our data suggest that, in addition to contraceptive benefits, modern hormonal contraception may have a protective effect on the acquisition of N. gonorrhoeae.
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Rettew JA, Huet YM, Marriott I. Estrogens augment cell surface TLR4 expression on murine macrophages and regulate sepsis susceptibility in vivo. Endocrinology 2009; 150:3877-84. [PMID: 19406943 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gender-based differences exist in infectious disease susceptibility. In general, females generate more robust and potentially protective humoral and cell-mediated immune responses after antigenic challenge than their male counterparts. Furthermore, evidence is accumulating that sex may also influence the early perception of microbial challenges and the generation of inflammatory immune responses such as sepsis. These differences have previously been attributed to the actions of reproductive hormones. Whereas androgens have been shown to suppress acute host immune responses to bacterial endotoxin challenge, estrogens have been found to promote increased resistance to bacterial infections. However, the mechanisms by which estrogens exert immunoprotective effects have not been established. In this study, we investigated the in vivo effects of 17beta-estradiol on endotoxin susceptibility in mice. Importantly, we have examined the actions of this female reproductive hormone on the expression of pattern recognition receptors that recognize bacterial endotoxin by key innate immune sentinel cells. We show that removal of endogenous estrogens decreases both pro- and antiinflammatory cytokine production, with a concomitant reduction in circulating levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein and cell surface expression of Toll-like receptor 4 on murine macrophages. Exogenous in vivo replacement of 17beta-estradiol, but not progesterone, significantly elevates sera lipopolysaccharide-binding protein levels and cell surface expression of Toll-like receptor 4 and CD14 on macrophages. Furthermore, this effect corresponds with significantly higher inflammatory cytokine levels after in vivo lipopolysaccharide challenge and a marked increase in endotoxin-associated morbidity. Taken together, these data provide a potential mechanism underlying the immunoenhancing effects of estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Rettew
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, USA
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Janssen GB, Penninks AH, Knippels LMJ, van Zijverden M, Spanhaak S. The evaluation of the immunomodulating properties of ERA-63 a pharmaceutical with estrogenic activity. Toxicol Lett 2008; 180:196-201. [PMID: 18602456 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2008] [Revised: 06/09/2008] [Accepted: 06/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper describes studies performed with ERA-63 a low molecular weight pharmaceutical with intended immunomodulatory effects. Since this compound was also known to have estrogenic activity a non-conventional approach was taken in order to differentiate between estrogenic and non-estrogenic-induced immunomodulatory effects. EE was included not only for qualitative comparison (hazard identification) between immunomodulatory effects but also, in case of similar effects, to facilitate the extrapolation of the findings in the rat to anticipated effects in humans. After 28 days of treatment with dosages ranging from pharmacological up to clearly toxic levels for both compounds the immunotoxic potential was assessed by performing a T cell-dependent antibody response and a host resistance assay in rats. Selected ERA-63 dose levels (0.167-0.2, 1.67-2 and 16.7-20mg/kg) were expected to have comparable estrogenic activity to respective EE dose levels (0.05, 0.5 and 5mg/kg). General toxicity parameters reflecting estrogenic activity (i.e. decreased body- and organ weights of thymus and testis, and increased bilirubin and GGT levels) confirmed the comparable estrogenic activity for both compounds at the dose levels tested. Together with the comparable estrogen-related immune suppression (i.e. decreases in specific antibody responses and an increased susceptibility for Listeria monocytogenes infects) for both compounds, this indicates that available clinical data for EE facilitates the human risk assessment of ERA-63.
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Affiliation(s)
- G B Janssen
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Disposition, Organon, a part of Schering-Plough Corporation, P.O. Box 20, 5340 BH Oss, The Netherlands.
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15
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Soler-García AA, Jerse AE. Neisseria gonorrhoeae catalase is not required for experimental genital tract infection despite the induction of a localized neutrophil response. Infect Immun 2007; 75:2225-33. [PMID: 17296753 PMCID: PMC1865741 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01513-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae produces several antioxidant defenses, including high levels of catalase, which may facilitate the persistence during an inflammatory response via neutralization of H2O2 produced by phagocytes. In vivo testing of the role of catalase in gonococcal survival is critical since several physiological factors impact interactions between N. gonorrhoeae and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Here we assessed the importance of gonococcal catalase in a surrogate model of female genital tract infection. Female BALB/c mice were treated with 17-beta estradiol to promote susceptibility to N. gonorrhoeae and inoculated intravaginally with wild-type gonococci or a catalase (kat) deletion mutant. A localized PMN influx occurred in an average of 43 and 81% of mice infected with wild-type or kat mutant gonococci, respectively, and PMNs associated with numerous wild-type or catalase-deficient bacteria were observed in vaginal smears. The combined results of six experiments showed a significant difference in the number of days wild-type bacteria were recovered compared to the catalase-deficient gonococci. However, there was much variability between experiments, and we found no correlation between PMN influx, colonization load, and clearance of wild-type or kat mutant bacteria. Estradiol treatment did not impair bacterial uptake, the luminol-dependent chemiluminescence response, or the killing capacity of isolated murine PMNs against N. gonorrhoeae or Staphylococcus aureus. Our data suggest N. gonorrhoeae is not significantly challenged by H2O2 produced by PMNs in the murine lower genital tract; alternatively, redundant defense mechanisms may protect the gonococcus from reactive oxygen species during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel A Soler-García
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd., Bethesda, MD 20814-4799, USA
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Reinsberg J, Christoffel S, Kumar A, van der Ven H. Escherichia coli derived factors modulate human granulosa cell steroidogenesis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 185:303-12. [PMID: 16266371 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-201x.2005.01497.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM In order to identify bacterial compounds which directly affect granulosa cell steroidogenesis, the effect of culture-supernatants and extracts from Escherichia coli were tested in an in vitro granulosa cell culture model. METHODS Samples were drawn from the culture-supernatant of E. coli ATCC25922 cultured in Luria-broth medium. Bacterial extract was prepared by incubation of freshly harvested bacteria in buffer. The bacterial culture-supernatants and extracts were added to human granulosa cells in culture. The granulosa cells collected from the follicular aspirates from women undergoing in-vitro fertilization were cultured for 17-53 h and progesterone or oestradiol was assayed in the spent culture medium. RESULTS The E. coli culture-supernatant stimulated the basal granulosa cell progesterone production demonstrating its maximum activity reached after 200-240 min of bacterial growth. The heat denaturated bacterial extract as well as its low-molecular-weight fraction (<10 kDa) stimulated both the basal and the hCG-stimulated progesterone production; the oestradiol production was slightly inhibited. Stimulation of progesterone production was time dependent increasing from 125 +/- 18% of control within the first 3 h to 205 +/- 35% within 17-53 h. The high-molecular-weight fraction (>30 kDa) of the bacterial extract inhibited progesterone production. The inhibitory activity was significantly diminished by heat denaturation. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates the existence of various compounds which are secreted by E. coli and could also be extracted out of E. coli bacteria. These bacterial compounds modulate ovarian steroidogenesis. Further studies are needed to clarify how far these compounds contribute to menstrual disturbance observed in chronic pelvic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Reinsberg
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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17
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Lortholary O, Improvisi L, Fitting C, Cavaillon JM, Dromer F. Influence of gender and age on course of infection and cytokine responses in mice with disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Clin Microbiol Infect 2002; 8:31-7. [PMID: 11906498 DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-0691.2002.00375.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the influence of gender and age on the course of infection and the cytokine response in a murine model of disseminated cryptococcosis. METHODS The course of the infection (survival and fungal load in blood and tissues) as well as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine responses in plasma and organs were compared according to gender and age in outbred mice previously infected with Cryptococcus neoformans NIH52D. RESULTS Although survival and fungal load were similar in male and female mice, the expression of all cytokines in plasma and of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma in spleen was significantly increased in female mice compared to male mice in two independent experiments. Young male mice had a significantly shortened survival, were significantly more infected and had predominant tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma responses in comparison with older male mice. CONCLUSION Host factors should be taken into account when studying the immune response to experimental C. neoformans infection. Our data support epidemiological and clinical data showing differences in susceptibility to cryptococcosis according to gender and age.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Lortholary
- Unité de Mycologie Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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18
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Békési G, Kakucs R, Varbiro S, Feher J, Pazmany T, Magyar Z, Sprintz D, Szekacs B. Induced myeloperoxidase activity and related superoxide inhibition during hormone replacement therapy. BJOG 2001; 108:474-81. [PMID: 11368132 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2001.00108.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test whether the menopause entails any changes in the myeloperoxidase activity of neutrophil granulocytes. The effects of hormone replacement therapy on myeloperoxidase activity and related changes in free radical production were also investigated. DESIGN Laboratory investigation of the effect of oestrogen on intracellular myeloperoxidase activity and release from human neutrophil granulocytes. Analysis of related changes in superoxide anion generation. SETTING 2nd Department of Medicine and 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest. SAMPLES Intracellular myeloperoxidase activity (mean peroxidase index) was measured automatically in blood samples obtained for general laboratory work-up from 135 randomly selected patients in our department. Blood samples from 11 postmenopausal women were analysed before and during hormone replacement therapy. Blood samples from 20 healthy volunteers were obtained and neutrophil granulocytes separated for in vitro measurement of superoxide anion production after adding myeloperoxidase to the incubation media. METHODS The mean peroxidase index was measured using a Technicon H-3 instrument. myeloperoxidase release from neutrophils was quantified by ELISA technique. Superoxide production of isolated neutrophil granulocytes was measured by photometry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Intracellular activity of myeloperoxidase, concentration of myeloperoxidase-protein in supernatant of neutrophils, release of superoxide anion from neutrophil granulocytes. RESULTS 1. Intracellular myeloperoxidase activity in neutrophils was lower in postmenopausal women, than in females with regular cycles (-1.84 +/- 3.06 versus 1.59 +/- 3.55, P < 0,001). 2. In postmenopausal women intracellular myeloperoxidase activity and myeloperoxidase release increased during hormone replacement therapy (-5.54 +/- 6.63 versus -0.2 +/- 6.05; P < 0.001 and 52.74 mU/ml +/- 25.73 versus 251.4 +/-234.1 mU/ml; P < 0.05). 3. Adding myeloperoxidase to neutrophil granulocyte suspensions, the production of superoxide anion fell (e.g. adding 280 ng/ml myeloperoxidase: 77.9 +/- 14.04 % of control production, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Hormone replacement restores the reduced myeloperoxidase activity in menopausal women. Adding myeloperoxidase to neutrophil granulocytes, the production of free radicals decreases.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Békési
- 2nd Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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19
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Békési G, Kakucs R, Varbiro S, Feher J, Pazmany T, Magyar Z, Sprintz D, Szekacs B. Induced myeloperoxidase activity and related superoxide inhibition during hormone replacement therapy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0306-5456(00)00108-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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20
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Tsuyuguchi K, Suzuki K, Matsumoto H, Tanaka E, Amitani R, Kuze F. Effect of oestrogen on Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary infection in mice. Clin Exp Immunol 2001; 123:428-34. [PMID: 11298130 PMCID: PMC1906003 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2249.2001.01474.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the role of oestrogen in the pathogenesis of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pulmonary disease, which occurs most frequently in postmenopausal women. The study was carried out in a murine infectious model using ovariectomized DBA/2 female mice. Infection with MAC was established by intratracheal administration of bacilli. In some experiments, ovariectomized mice were treated with exogenous 17 beta-estradiol (E2). The number of bacilli in the lungs of infected mice which received ovariectomy was significantly larger than that in the lungs of sham-operated control mice, and treatment of ovariectomized mice with exogenous E2 restored the burden of bacilli to the same level as that in the sham-operated control mice. We next examined the effect of E2 in vitro using bone marrow-derived macrophages obtained from DBA/2 female mice. The macrophages showed bacteriostatic activity against MAC after treatment with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and this activity was further enhanced by the exogenous addition of E2 to the culture medium. In parallel with these findings, E2 augmented the production of reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI) by macrophages pretreated with IFN-gamma and stimulated with MAC, as shown by evaluating nitrite production and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA expression. These findings taken together suggest that absence of endogenous oestrogen appears to be responsible for the development of MAC pulmonary disease in this mouse model and that the enhancement by E2 of anti-MAC activity of murine macrophages induced through increased RNI production may play some role in resistance to MAC infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Tsuyuguchi
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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21
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Békési G, Kakucs R, Várbíró S, Rácz K, Sprintz D, Fehér J, Székács B. In vitro effects of different steroid hormones on superoxide anion production of human neutrophil granulocytes. Steroids 2000; 65:889-94. [PMID: 11077087 DOI: 10.1016/s0039-128x(00)00183-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophil granulocytes play an important role in atherogenesis also through their free radical generation. According to recent studies, a point of action by which estrogens can provide protection against atherosclerosis is their inhibiting effect on superoxide anion production. The aim of our study was to test whether this means a common effect of steroids on superoxide production, or whether various steroid hormones have different action on superoxide generation of human granulocytes. Neutrophils were separated from the blood samples of twelve healthy volunteers. Isolated cells were incubated with different concentrations (10(-9), 10(-8), 10(-7) M) of hydrocortisone, aldosterone, cortexolone, 17-beta-estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone. Superoxide anion production was determined by photometry using the reduction of ferricytochrome-C. Compared to that of control cells neutrophils incubated with 17-beta-estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and hydrocortisone showed significantly reduced superoxide production. No significant alteration of superoxide anion production was found after the incubation of cells with aldosterone and cortexolone. It is concluded that similarly to estradiol other sex steroids and cortisol can inhibit the free radical production of human granulocytes, but mineralocorticoid aldosterone and Reichstein's substance S do not show such activity. Our results provide new evidence supporting the theory that certain types of steroid hormones have antioxidant capacity. This may give further reasons for investigating the molecular background of the existence or absence of this property and thus might lead to the development of new free radical scavengers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Békési
- Second Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi utca 46, H-1088, Budapest, Hungary.
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22
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Abstract
Males of many species are more susceptible than females to infections caused by parasites, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. One proximate cause of sex differences in infection is differences in endocrine-immune interactions. Specifically, males may be more susceptible to infection than females because sex steroids, specifically androgens in males and estrogens in females, modulate several aspects of host immunity. It is, however, becoming increasingly more apparent that in addition to affecting host immunity, sex steroid hormones alter genes and behaviors that influence susceptibility and resistance to infection. Thus, males may be more susceptible to infection than females not only because androgens reduce immunocompetence, but because sex steroid hormones affect disease resistance genes and behaviors that make males more susceptible to infection. Consideration of the cumulative effects of sex steroid hormones on susceptibility to infection may serve to clarify current discrepancies in the literature and offer alternative hypotheses to the view that sex steroid hormones only alter susceptibility to infection via changes in host immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Klein
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205-2179, USA.
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23
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Jerse AE. Experimental gonococcal genital tract infection and opacity protein expression in estradiol-treated mice. Infect Immun 1999; 67:5699-708. [PMID: 10531218 PMCID: PMC96944 DOI: 10.1128/iai.67.11.5699-5708.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/1999] [Accepted: 08/06/1999] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of effective prophylactic agents against gonorrhea and the study of adaptation by Neisseria gonorrhoeae to the urogenital mucosa are hindered by the lack of a well-established animal model of gonococcal genital tract infection. Here, a murine model of long-term gonococcal genital tract infection is described. Female BALB/c mice were treated with 17-beta-estradiol and inoculated intravaginally with wild-type gonococcal strain FA1090 or MS11. N. gonorrhoeae was recovered from vaginal swabs for an average of 12 to 13 days following inoculation with 10(6) CFU of either strain. Inflammation occurred in over 80% of infected mice, and diplococci were associated with epithelial cells and neutrophils in stained vaginal smears. Ascended infection occurred in 17 to 20% of mice inoculated with strain FA1090. An outbred mouse strain (SLC:ddY) previously reported to be naturally susceptible to N. gonorrhoeae was also tested; however, as with BALB/c mice, estradiol was required for prolonged infection. Although piliation was not maintained during experimental murine infection, 46 to 100% of vaginal isolates from four of eight BALB/c mice and three of four SLC:ddY mice expressed one or more opacity (Opa) proteins within 4 days after inoculation with an Opa-negative variant of strain FA1090. The observed selection for and/or induction of gonococcal Opa protein expression during murine infection appears to parallel events that occur during experimental urethritis in volunteers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Jerse
- Department of Microbiology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799, USA.
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24
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Salem ML, Matsuzaki G, Madkour GA, Nomoto K. Beta-estradiol-induced decrease in IL-12 and TNF-alpha expression suppresses macrophage functions in the course of Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGY 1999; 21:481-97. [PMID: 10458538 DOI: 10.1016/s0192-0561(99)00027-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mice treated with a contraceptive dose of beta-estradiol (E2) demonstrated changes in their macrophage (Mphi) number and functions. While E2 increased and decreased the Mphi number in PBMC and PEC respectively, it enhanced the in vitro phagocytosis of FITC-labeled beads by both cells. E2 treatment also enhanced the phagocytic function of Mphi as assessed by the in vivo carbon clearance assay. In contrast, the in vitro intracellular killing function of adherent cells in peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) against Listeria monocytogenes decreased after E2 treatment. In line with the decrease in the intracellular killing function, the E2-treated mice showed an impaired protection against L. monocytogenes infection. To clarify the mechanism of the E2-mediated suppression of the protective response against L. monocytogenes infection, we next analyzed the cytokine expression by PEC in E2-treated L. monocytogenes-infected mice. On day 5 of the infection, the expression of IL-12, TNF-alpha and IL-10 by adherent PEC from the E2-treated mice was lower than that from the control-infected mice. The decrease in the cytokine expression by adherent PEC of E2-treated mice coincided with the decrease of IFN-gamma expression, and the increase in the IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-beta expressions by non-adherent PEC. These results revealed two aspects of the effects of E2 on Mphi. Even though E2 was found to enhance Mphi phagocytosis, the anti-bacterial function was suppressed. This suppression may be mediated by the inhibition of both IL-12 and TNF-alpha which play important roles in the protective response against intracellular bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Salem
- Department of Immunology, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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25
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Aristizabal BH, Clemons KV, Stevens DA, Restrepo A. Morphological transition of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis conidia to yeast cells: in vivo inhibition in females. Infect Immun 1998; 66:5587-91. [PMID: 9784579 PMCID: PMC108705 DOI: 10.1128/iai.66.11.5587-5591.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical paracoccidioidomycosis is 13 times more common in men than in women. Estrogen inhibits the transition of mycelia or conidia (the saprophytic form of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis) to yeasts (the parasitic form) in vitro. Here, we show that, in male mice that were infected intranasally (mimicking natural infection) the transition of conidia in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids to intermediate forms and yeasts occurred over 24 to 96 h; CFU and yeasts (shown by histopathology) increased subsequently. In females, transition did not occur and infection cleared. These events in vivo are consistent with epidemiological and in vitro observations, suggesting that female hormones block transition and are responsible for resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- B H Aristizabal
- Corporacion para Investigaciones Biologicas, Medellin, Colombia
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26
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Abstract
Numerous studies have examined the influence of hormones on infectious diseases and there is now a wealth of data relating to the more specific effect of the sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, on urogenital infections. The interaction between these hormones and the immune system is complex and the variation of hormonal effect between species further complicates the true picture as related to humans. Although it is difficult therefore to draw general conclusions regarding predominant effects of specific hormones, there is the suggestion that oestrogen enhances the pathogenicity of many urogenital micro-organisms. Our understanding of the influential role played by sex hormones in disease pathogenesis is at an early stage and illustrates well the importance of drawing together and interpreting as a whole both epidemiological and molecular studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sonnex
- Department of GU Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge
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27
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Wang R, Belosevic M. The in vitro effects of estradiol and cortisol on the function of a long-term goldfish macrophage cell line. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 1995; 19:327-336. [PMID: 8617403 DOI: 10.1016/0145-305x(95)00018-o] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
We examined the in vitro effects of estradiol and cortisol on the inflammatory function of a macrophage cell line. A dose-dependent inhibition of chemotaxis (0.5 and 0.1 microM, for estradiol and cortisol, respectively) and phagocytosis (1.0 microM for both steroids) were observed after treatment. Estradiol did not affect the nitric oxide production by the macrophage cell line, while cortisol strongly inhibited in vitro nitric oxide production. The steroids did not affect the ability of the macrophages to mount a respiratory burst response as measured by the NBT reduction assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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28
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Norderyd OM, Grossi SG, Machtei EE, Zambon JJ, Hausmann E, Dunford RG, Genco RJ. Periodontal status of women taking postmenopausal estrogen supplementation. J Periodontol 1993; 64:957-62. [PMID: 8277404 DOI: 10.1902/jop.1993.64.10.957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The association between supplementary estrogen intake and periodontal and gingival status in a total of 228 women 50 to 64 years of age was examined. Clinical parameters including visible supragingival plaque, subgingival calculus, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, alveolar bone height measurements, and number of remaining teeth were measured. Gingival status was recorded as gingival bleeding after gentle manipulation. Selected periopathogens, socio-economic, demographic, smoking habits, and health care variables were assessed. Gingival bleeding was significantly lower in the estrogen supplement group (n = 57) compared to the control group (n = 171) (P = 0.009); the estrogen group also exhibited significantly lower visible plaque levels (P = 0.030) and fewer Capnocytophaga-ssp. (P = 0.032). Dental care was more frequent (P < 0.001), and education levels were higher (P = 0.022) in the estrogen group. To investigate whether differences among the above parameters contributed to the difference in gingival bleeding, an age-adjusted analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used. The final ANCOVA indicated non-significant relationships for all parameters examined except estrogen intake (P = 0.044). Women taking estrogen exhibited lower gingival bleeding than the control group after correcting for these factors. The results indicate that estrogen supplementation is associated with less gingival bleeding in women aged 50 to 64, as compared to an age-matched control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- O M Norderyd
- Periodontal Disease Clinical Research Center, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York, Buffalo
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29
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Yamamoto Y, Saito H, Setogawa T, Tomioka H. Sex differences in host resistance to Mycobacterium marinum infection in mice. Infect Immun 1991; 59:4089-96. [PMID: 1937768 PMCID: PMC259001 DOI: 10.1128/iai.59.11.4089-4096.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences were observed in host resistance to Mycobacterium marinum infection in mice. Males were found to be more susceptible than females in terms of mortality, incidence of gross skin lesions, and bacterial load in the lungs and spleen. The degree of sex differences varied from strain to strain of test mice, in the order C3H/He, A/J, and BALB/c greater than DBA/2, B10.A, and C57BL/6, on the basis of survival time and multiplication of organisms in the visceral organs. Although this ordering corresponded to the susceptibilities of both male and female mice to the organisms, much greater strain dependency was seen in males than in females. Castration caused an increase in the host resistance of males, but this effect was substantially reversed by continuous testosterone treatment. Testosterone also increased the susceptibility of female mice to this infection. These findings imply that the male sex hormone is involved in the lowered anti-M. marinum resistance of males. Although athymic mice were more susceptible than euthymic mice, a substantial degree of sex difference was also observed in the T-cell-depleted animals, indicating that natural host resistance to this infection is sex dependent. Indeed, more efficient macrophage mobilization at the site of infection was seen in females than in males. Although female T-cell transplantation improved the lowered resistance of athymic mice, there was a sex difference in bacterial growth in the lungs. This implies that sex hormones affect T-cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yamamoto
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shimane Medical University, Izumo, Japan
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30
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Sugimoto H, Hamana K, Masxuzaki S, Arai T, Yamada S. Glucocorticoids suppress and oestrogens enhance the lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in putrescine and N1-acetylspermidine in mouse liver. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1991; 38:781-6. [PMID: 2064994 DOI: 10.1016/0960-0760(91)90092-j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Previously we reported that administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mice increased the hepatic levels of putrescine (PUT) and N1-acetylspermidine (N1-acetyl-SPD). In the current study, we examined the in vivo effects of some steroid hormones on the LPS-induced increase in PUT and N1-acetyl-SPD. Corticosterone, hydrocortisone and dexamethasone suppressed the LPS-induced increase in PUT and N1-acetyl-SPD in mouse liver in a dose-dependent manner, dexamethasone being the most effective among them. On the other hand, oestrone and oestradiol-17 beta enhanced the LPS-induced increase in PUT and N1-acetyl-SPD in a dose-dependent manner. Oestradiol-17 alpha and 16 beta-ethyl-oestradiol, as an inactive oestradiol isomer and an antioestrogen, respectively, likewise enhanced the increase in PUT and N1-acetyl-SPD concentrations induced by LPS. 16 alpha-hydroxy-oestradiol (oestriol), 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone, 2-hydroxyoestradiol, 2-hydroxyoesterone, progesterone, testosterone, diethylstilboestrol and nonsteroidal antioestrogens such as tamoxifen and nafoxidine had no effect on the increase. Oestradiol-17 beta enhanced and corticosterone had little effect on the carbon tetrachloride-induced increase in PUT and N1-acetyl-SPD. These results suggest that glucocorticoids suppress the increase by preventing the immunological injury by Kupffer cells on hepatocytes and that the stimulatory effect of oestrogens may not be associated with their oestrogenic activities mediated by the oestrogen receptor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Sugimoto
- Department of Physiology, Gumma University, Maebashi, Japan
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Yamamoto Y, Tomioka H, Sato K, Saito H, Yamada Y, Setogawa T. Sex differences in the susceptibility of mice to infection induced by Mycobacterium intracellulare. THE AMERICAN REVIEW OF RESPIRATORY DISEASE 1990; 142:430-3. [PMID: 2382907 DOI: 10.1164/ajrccm/142.2.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences in the susceptibility of Balb-c mice to Mycobacterium intracellulare infection were studied. When mice were given M. intracellulare intravenously, macroscopic lesions were considerably more extensive in the lungs, liver, and kidneys of male mice than in female mice. A significantly more marked growth of organisms occurred in these visceral organs of the male mice during the course of infection for as long as 16 wk after the challenge. This difference can be partly explained by the finding that the antimicrobial activity of host peritoneal macrophages is more potent in the female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yamamoto
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shimane Medical University, Izumo, Japan
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Punnonen R, Lehtinen M, Teisala K, Aine R, Rantala I, Heinonen PK, Miettinen A, Laine S, Paavonen J. The relation between serum sex steroid levels and plasma cell infiltrates in endometritis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 1989; 244:185-91. [PMID: 2675776 DOI: 10.1007/bf01560082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
We measured serum levels of progesterone and estradiol among 35 patients with endometritis confirmed by endometrial biopsy. The onset of symptoms took place predominantly in the proliferative phase of the cycle. A negative correlation was found between the serum progesterone levels and the histopathologic severity of plasma cell endometritis. Our results suggest that the hormonal status contributes to the immune response and susceptibility to endometrial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Punnonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tampere University Central Hospital, University of Tampere, Medical School, Finland
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Morishita M, Aoyama H, Tokumoto K, Iwamoto Y. The concentration of salivary steroid hormones and the prevalence of gingivitis at puberty. Adv Dent Res 1988; 2:397-400. [PMID: 3271037 DOI: 10.1177/08959374880020023601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Gingival conditions of 1323 junior high schoolchildren aged 12-15 were examined, and 132 children who had either healthy gingivae or severe gingivitis were called to the clinic. More precise examination of gingivitis was performed by assessment of Jackson's gingivitis index (G.I.), probing depth (P.D.), and bleeding on probing. Whole saliva was collected, and the salivary concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone were determined by radioimmunoassay. Subgingival bacterial plaque was sampled from 36 children, and total bacterial counts and morphological differentiation were performed under a phase-contrast microscope. For statistical analysis, both males and females were divided into two groups according to the concentration of each sex hormone and subgrouped by the results of clinical examinations. Chi-square analysis using 2-by-2 tables was performed to determine the relation between salivary steroid hormone levels and gingival inflammation. The results suggest that unbalanced secretion of certain hormones might be one of the factors promoting gingivitis at puberty.
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Saad AM, Aström G. Effects of exogenous estrogen administration to ovariectomized cows on the blood and milk-leukocyte counts and -neutrophil phagocytosis measured by flow cytometry. ZENTRALBLATT FUR VETERINARMEDIZIN. REIHE B. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. SERIES B 1988; 35:654-63. [PMID: 3206946 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0450.1988.tb00541.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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