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McGlade EA, Stephens KK, Winuthayanon S, Anamthathmakula P, Holtzman MJ, Winuthayanon W. Classical Estrogen Signaling in Ciliated Epithelial Cells of the Oviduct Is Nonessential for Fertility in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad163. [PMID: 37942801 PMCID: PMC10658216 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary action performs a critical role in the oviduct (Fallopian tube) during pregnancy establishment through sperm and egg transport. The disruption of normal ciliary function in the oviduct affects oocyte pick-up and is a contributing factor to female infertility. Estrogen is an important regulator of ciliary action in the oviduct and promotes ciliogenesis in several species. Global loss of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) leads to infertility. We have previously shown that ESR1 in the oviductal epithelial cell layer is required for female fertility. Here, we assessed the role of estrogen on transcriptional regulation of ciliated epithelial cells of the oviduct using single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis. We observed minor variations in ciliated cell genes in the proximal region (isthmus and uterotubal junction) of the oviduct. However, 17β-estradiol treatment had little impact on the gene expression profile of ciliated epithelial cells. We also conditionally ablated Esr1 from ciliated epithelial cells of the oviduct (called ciliated Esr1d/d mice). Our studies showed that ciliated Esr1d/d females had fertility rates comparable to control females, did not display any disruptions in preimplantation embryo development or embryo transport to the uterus, and had comparable cilia formation to control females. However, we observed some incomplete deletion of Esr1 in the ciliated epithelial cells, especially in the ampulla region. Nevertheless, our data suggest that ESR1 expression in ciliated cells of the oviduct is dispensable for ciliogenesis and nonessential for female fertility in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A McGlade
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Kalli K Stephens
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | | | | | - Michael J Holtzman
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St.Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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2
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Guo Q, Li Z, Jia S, Tong F, Ma L. Mechanism of Human Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy Caused by Cigarette Smoking. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1074-1081. [PMID: 35962304 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00947-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
In the past few decades, the smoking rate of women of childbearing age has increased. Epidemiological data has repeatedly shown that smoking women have an increased risk of various reproductive diseases, including ectopic pregnancy (EP), decreased fertility, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and failure of assisted reproduction. The oviduct was the target of cigarette smoke in many in vivo and in vitro studies. The fallopian tube is a well-designed organ. Its function is to collect and transport the ova to the fertilized site and provide a suitable environment for fertilization and early embryonic development. Lastly, the fallopian tube transports the pre-implantation embryo to the uterus. Various biological processes can be studied in the fallopian tubes, making it an excellent model for toxicology. This paper reviews the roles of the fallopian tube in gametes and embryo transportation, and the possible mechanism tobacco smoke contributes to tubal EP. A possible signal pathway might be a model to develop intervention of EP for pregnant women exposed to smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Heping District Shenyang, 36 Sanhao Street, 110004, Shenyang, China.
| | - Zaiyi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 628 Zhenyuan Road, Xinhu Street, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Steve Jia
- RD Center, Pacificbio Inc. Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92602, USA
| | - Fangze Tong
- Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0DF, UK
| | - Lin Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 628 Zhenyuan Road, Xinhu Street, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510000, China.
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Brodowska A, Grabowska M, Bittel K, Ciećwież S, Brodowski J, Szczuko M, Szydłowska I, Piasecka M. Estrogen and Progesterone Receptor Immunoexpression in Fallopian Tubes among Postmenopausal Women Based on Time since the Last Menstrual Period. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179195. [PMID: 34501783 PMCID: PMC8430669 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Existing data on the expression of estrogen receptor (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR) in fallopian tubes in postmenopausal women are mostly inconclusive. Therefore, we assessed ERα and PR immunoexpression in the oviducts of these women. One hundred postmenopausal women were divided into three groups based on time elapsed since the last menstrual period: (A) 1–5 years, (B) 6–10 years, and (C) ≥11 years. In all groups, both in the glandular epithelium and stroma of the ampulla and isthmus of the oviduct, immunolocalization of ERα and PR were noted. The glandular epithelium of the ampulla showed a higher percentage of PR-positive cells than the isthmus in each group. Regarding ERα, there were no significant differences. In the glandular epithelium in both the ampulla and isthmus, the percentage of ERα- and PR-positive cells was significantly higher than that in the stroma in each study group and higher in the A group than in the C group. In conclusion, in postmenopausal women, time elapsed since the last menstrual period in the fallopian tubes was positively correlated with the following: (1) the epithelium showed vacuolation of cytoplasm with greater frequency, (2) the proportion of ciliated cells decreased, and (3) the percentage of ERα- and PR-positive cells also decreased. The obtained results indicate a significant decrease in ERα and PR expression depending on the time that has elapsed since the last menstruation, which is undoubtedly related to the loss of the reproductive function of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Brodowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Bittel
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Sylwester Ciećwież
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Jacek Brodowski
- Department of Primary Healthcare, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Szczuko
- Department of Human Nutrition and Metabolomics, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Broniewskiego 24, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Iwona Szydłowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-914800917
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4
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Antony D, Brunner HG, Schmidts M. Ciliary Dyneins and Dynein Related Ciliopathies. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081885. [PMID: 34440654 PMCID: PMC8391580 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although ubiquitously present, the relevance of cilia for vertebrate development and health has long been underrated. However, the aberration or dysfunction of ciliary structures or components results in a large heterogeneous group of disorders in mammals, termed ciliopathies. The majority of human ciliopathy cases are caused by malfunction of the ciliary dynein motor activity, powering retrograde intraflagellar transport (enabled by the cytoplasmic dynein-2 complex) or axonemal movement (axonemal dynein complexes). Despite a partially shared evolutionary developmental path and shared ciliary localization, the cytoplasmic dynein-2 and axonemal dynein functions are markedly different: while cytoplasmic dynein-2 complex dysfunction results in an ultra-rare syndromal skeleto-renal phenotype with a high lethality, axonemal dynein dysfunction is associated with a motile cilia dysfunction disorder, primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) or Kartagener syndrome, causing recurrent airway infection, degenerative lung disease, laterality defects, and infertility. In this review, we provide an overview of ciliary dynein complex compositions, their functions, clinical disease hallmarks of ciliary dynein disorders, presumed underlying pathomechanisms, and novel developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinu Antony
- Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg University Faculty of Medicine, Mathildenstrasse 1, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Genome Research Division, Human Genetics Department, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Han G. Brunner
- Genome Research Division, Human Genetics Department, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Miriam Schmidts
- Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg University Faculty of Medicine, Mathildenstrasse 1, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Genome Research Division, Human Genetics Department, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 KL Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-761-44391; Fax: +49-761-44710
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5
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Andrade GHB, Simão VA, Souza BR, Chuffa LGA, Camargo ICC. Sex steroid receptors profiling is influenced by nandrolone decanoate in the ampulla of the fallopian tube: Post-treatment and post-recovery analyses. Tissue Cell 2018; 50:79-88. [PMID: 29429521 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are recommended for therapeutic clinic, but their use has increased in recent decades for aesthetic reasons. No study has evaluated the impact of AAS in the fallopian tube, after treatment and recovery periods. Herein, the aim of study was to investigate the effects of Nandrolone Decanoate (ND), administered in different doses (1.87; 3.75; 7.5 and 15 mg/kg) on the ampulla of the fallopian tube in rats, following post-treatment (PT; 15 consecutive days) and post-recovery (PR; 30 consecutive days) periods. The control group received mineral oil. Estrous cycle was monitored daily during both periods and in sequence the rats (n = 8/group/period) were killed. All ND-treated animals showed estral acyclicity during the PT and PR periods, but the histomorphometric changes in the fallopian tube varied according to the ND dose level. The expression of AR, ERα and ERβ varied in the nucleus and cytoplasm of epithelial cells. No AR expression was observed in the stroma. The muscle cells exhibited variation in immunostaining. In conclusion, ND promoted histomorphometric and immunohistochemical changes in the ampullary portion of the fallopian tube after treatment and recovery periods in a dose-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- G H B Andrade
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, School of Sciences, Humanities and Languages, Department of Biotechnology, Assis, SP, Brazil
| | - V A Simão
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, School of Sciences, Humanities and Languages, Department of Biotechnology, Assis, SP, Brazil
| | - B R Souza
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, School of Sciences, Humanities and Languages, Department of Biotechnology, Assis, SP, Brazil
| | - L G A Chuffa
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, Institute of Biosciences, Department of Anatomy, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - I C C Camargo
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, School of Sciences, Humanities and Languages, Department of Biotechnology, Assis, SP, Brazil.
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6
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Li S, O'Neill SRS, Zhang Y, Holtzman MJ, Takemaru KI, Korach KS, Winuthayanon W. Estrogen receptor α is required for oviductal transport of embryos. FASEB J 2017; 31:1595-1607. [PMID: 28082352 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201601128r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Newly fertilized embryos spend the first few days within the oviduct and are transported to the uterus, where they implant onto the uterine wall. An implantation of the embryo before reaching the uterus could result in ectopic pregnancy and lead to maternal death. Estrogen is necessary for embryo transport in mammals; however, the mechanism involved in estrogen-mediated cellular function within the oviduct remains unclear. In this study, we show in mouse models that ciliary length and beat frequency of the oviductal epithelial cells are regulated through estrogen receptor α (ESR1) but not estrogen receptor β (ESR2). Gene profiling indicated that transcripts in the WNT/β-catenin (WNT/CTNNB1) signaling pathway were regulated by estrogen in mouse oviduct, and inhibition of this pathway in a whole oviduct culture system resulted in a decreased embryo transport distance. However, selective ablation of CTNNB1 from the oviductal ciliated cells did not affect embryo transport, possibly because of a compensatory mechanism via intact CTNNB1 in the adjacent secretory cells. In summary, we demonstrated that disruption of estrogen signaling in oviductal epithelial cells alters ciliary function and impairs embryo transport. Therefore, our findings may provide a better understanding of etiology of the ectopic pregnancy that is associated with alteration of estrogen signals.-Li, S., O'Neill, S. R. S., Zhang, Y., Holtzman, M. J., Takemaru, K.-I., Korach, K. S., Winuthayanon, W. Estrogen receptor α is required for oviductal transport of embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Sofia R S O'Neill
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Yong Zhang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Michael J Holtzman
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ken-Ichi Takemaru
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, USA; and
| | - Kenneth S Korach
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA;
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7
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Moniruzzaman M, Hasan KN, Maitra SK. Melatonin actions on ovaprim (synthetic GnRH and domperidone)-induced oocyte maturation in carp. Reproduction 2016; 151:285-96. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The major objective of the present study was to demonstrate the actions of exogenous melatonin on ovaprim (synthetic GnRH and domperidone)-induced final oocyte maturation focusing on the oxidative status of pre-ovulatory follicles in the carpCatla catla. Accordingly, gravid carp during the early spawning phase of the reproductive cycle were injected with melatonin and/or ovaprim at different time intervals or luzindole (a pharmacological blocker of melatonin receptors) before their administration. We studied their effects on the latency period, the rate of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD; a visual marker of final oocyte maturation) in oocytes, and the levels of maturation-promoting factor (MPF), as well as oxidative stress, different antioxidants, melatonin and MT1 melatonin receptor protein in the extracts of pre-ovulatory follicles. Notably, melatonin treatment 2 h before the injection of ovaprim resulted in the shortest latency period as well as the highest rate of GVBD and MPF formation. Exogenous melatonin, irrespective of the injection schedule, caused a significant reduction in intra-follicular oxidative stress and an increase in the levels of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, melatonin and its receptor protein. Concentrations of ovarian melatonin in each fish exhibited a significant negative correlation with the level of oxidative stress, but a positive correlation with the rate of GVBD and the activity/level of different antioxidants. However, no significant effects of melatonin and/or ovaprim were detected in luzindole-pretreated carp. Collectively, the present study provides the first evidence that melatonin pretreatment in carp ameliorates ovaprim actions on the process of final oocyte maturation by the formation of MPF and alleviates oxidative stress in pre-ovulatory follicles by stimulating different antioxidants.
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Yang C, Lim W, Bae H, Song G. Aquaporin 3 is regulated by estrogen in the chicken oviduct and is involved in progression of epithelial cell-derived ovarian carcinomas. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2016; 55:97-106. [PMID: 26808975 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane proteins that passively deliver water across the plasma membrane to play an important role in maintaining cell shape. Members of the AQP family are distributed in most of the tissues in the human body and perform a variety of functions based on the water homeostasis suitable for each organ. However, there is little known about the expression and regulation of AQP family members in chickens. Therefore, we determined the expression of AQPs in various tissues of chickens. Among 13 isotypes, AQP3 was highly expressed in the chicken oviduct. Expression of AQP3 messenger RNA (mRNA) increased in the magnum (P < 0.001) and isthmus (P < 0.001) of chick oviducts treated with diethylstilbestrol. Consistent with these results, the localization of AQP3 was detected in the glandular and luminal epithelia of the magnum and isthmus of oviducts of diethylstilbestrol-treated chicks. In addition, the pattern of expression of AQP3 changed in an estrogen-dependent manner during the molting period. During the regenerative period of the oviduct after molting, expression of AQP3 mRNA increased coordinately with increasing concentrations of estradiol (P < 0.001), whereas expression of AQP3 mRNA decreased as concentrations of estradiol in plasma decreased in response to induced molting (P < 0.001). Also, expression of the AQP3 increased (P < 0.001) in cancerous ovaries of laying hens. In conclusion, AQP3 does not simply function to transport water into and out of cells but also appears to be closely involved in development of the chicken oviduct, which is regulated by estrogens. Furthermore, our results suggest AQP3 as a new diagnostic for early detection and treatment of epithelial cell-derived ovarian carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Yang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 136-713, Republic of Korea
| | - W Lim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 136-713, Republic of Korea
| | - H Bae
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 136-713, Republic of Korea
| | - G Song
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 136-713, Republic of Korea.
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Keselman A, Heller N. Estrogen Signaling Modulates Allergic Inflammation and Contributes to Sex Differences in Asthma. Front Immunol 2015; 6:568. [PMID: 26635789 PMCID: PMC4644929 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease that affects ~300 million people worldwide. It is characterized by airway constriction that leads to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. The most common treatments are corticosteroids and β2-adrenergic receptor antagonists, which target inflammation and airway smooth muscle constriction, respectively. The incidence and severity of asthma is greater in women than in men, and women are more prone to develop corticosteroid-resistant or “hard-to-treat” asthma. Puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and oral contraceptives are known to contribute to disease outcome in women, suggesting a role for estrogen and other hormones impacting allergic inflammation. Currently, the mechanisms underlying these sex differences are poorly understood, although the effect of sex hormones, such as estrogen, on allergic inflammation is gaining interest. Asthma presents as a heterogeneous disease. In typical Th2-type allergic asthma, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 predominate, driving IgE production and recruitment of eosinophils into the lungs. Chronic Th2-inflammation in the lung results in structural changes and activation of multiple immune cell types, leading to a deterioration of lung function over time. Most immune cells express estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ, or the membrane-bound G-protein-coupled ER) to varying degrees and can respond to the hormone. Together these receptors have demonstrated the capacity to regulate a spectrum of immune functions, including adhesion, migration, survival, wound healing, and antibody and cytokine production. This review will cover the current understanding of estrogen signaling in allergic inflammation and discuss how this signaling may contribute to sex differences in asthma and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Keselman
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
| | - Nicola Heller
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
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Li X, Pishdari B, Cui P, Hu M, Yang HP, Guo YR, Jiang HY, Feng Y, Billig H, Shao R. Regulation of Androgen Receptor Expression Alters AMPK Phosphorylation in the Endometrium: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11:1376-89. [PMID: 26681917 PMCID: PMC4671995 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The failure of reproductive success in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients could be in part due to endometrial dysfunction. However, no studies have investigated any causality between androgen, androgen receptor (AR) expression, and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation in the endometrium under physiological and pathological conditions. In the present study, we show that 1) endometrial AR expression levels fluctuate in non-PCOS and PCOS patients during the menstrual cycle; 2) the menstrual phase-dependent alteration of p-AMPKα expression occurs in non-PCOS patients but not in PCOS patients; 3) AR expression is higher in PCOS patients than non-PCOS patients during hyperplasia while AMPKα activation (indicated by the ratio of p-AMPKα to AMPKα); and 4) co-localization of AR and Ki-67 in epithelial cell nuclei is observed in endometrial hyperplasia. Importantly, using in vitro human tissue culture and an in vivo 5α-dihydrotestosterone-treated rat model, we show that the action of androgen on AMPKα activation is likely mediated through nuclear AR, especially in epithelial cells. Collectively, we present evidence that AR expression and AMPKα activation depend on menstrual cycle phase and the presence of PCOS, and the data suggest that AR-mediated regulation of AMPKα activation might play a role in the development of endometrial hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. ; 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Bano Pishdari
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peng Cui
- 4. Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Hu
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hong-Ping Yang
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Rong Guo
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Yuan Jiang
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Feng
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. ; 4. Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Håkan Billig
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ruijin Shao
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Hu J, Ma S, Zou S, Li X, Cui P, Weijdegård B, Wu G, Shao R, Billig H, Feng Y. The regulation of nitric oxide synthase isoform expression in mouse and human fallopian tubes: potential insights for ectopic pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 16:49-67. [PMID: 25546387 PMCID: PMC4307235 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is highly unstable and has a half-life of seconds in buffer solutions. It is synthesized by NO-synthase (NOS), which has been found to exist in the following three isoforms: neuro nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). NOS activity is localized in the reproductive tracts of many species, although direct evidence for NOS isoforms in the Fallopian tubes of mice is still lacking. In the present study, we investigated the expression and regulation of NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during the estrous and menstrual cycles, respectively. We also measured isoform expression in humans with ectopic pregnancy and in mice treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results confirmed the presence of different NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during different stages of the estrous and menstrual cycles and showed that iNOS expression increased in the Fallopian tubes of women with ectopic pregnancy and in LPS-treated mice. Elevated iNOS activity might influence ovulation, cilia beats, contractility, and embryo transportation in such a manner as to increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. This study has provided morphological and molecular evidence that NOS isoforms are present and active in the human and mouse Fallopian tubes and suggests that iNOS might play an important role in both the reproductive cycle and infection-induced ectopic pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junting Hu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Shulan Ma
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Sien Zou
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Birgitta Weijdegård
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Gencheng Wu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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12
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Díaz-García C, Johannesson L, Shao R, Bilig H, Brännström M. Pregnancy after allogeneic uterus transplantation in the rat: perinatal outcome and growth trajectory. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1545-52.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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13
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Johansson J, Mannerås-Holm L, Shao R, Olsson A, Lönn M, Billig H, Stener-Victorin E. Electrical vs manual acupuncture stimulation in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome: different effects on muscle and fat tissue insulin signaling. PLoS One 2013; 8:e54357. [PMID: 23349861 PMCID: PMC3548783 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In rats with dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), repeated low-frequency electrical stimulation of acupuncture needles restores whole-body insulin sensitivity measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp. We hypothesized that electrical stimulation causing muscle contractions and manual stimulation causing needle sensation have different effects on insulin sensitivity and related signaling pathways in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, with electrical stimulation being more effective in DHT-induced PCOS rats. From age 70 days, rats received manual or low-frequency electrical stimulation of needles in abdominal and hind limb muscle five times/wk for 4–5 wks; controls were handled but untreated rats. Low-frequency electrical stimulation modified gene expression (decreased Tbc1d1 in soleus, increased Nr4a3 in mesenteric fat) and protein expression (increased pAS160/AS160, Nr4a3 and decreased GLUT4) by western blot and increased GLUT4 expression by immunohistochemistry in soleus muscle; glucose clearance during oral glucose tolerance tests was unaffected. Manual stimulation led to faster glucose clearance and modified mainly gene expression in mesenteric adipose tissue (increased Nr4a3, Mapk3/Erk, Adcy3, Gsk3b), but not protein expression to the same extent; however, Nr4a3 was reduced in soleus muscle. The novel finding is that electrical and manual muscle stimulation affect glucose homeostasis in DHT-induced PCOS rats through different mechanisms. Repeated electrical stimulation regulated key functional molecular pathways important for insulin sensitivity in soleus muscle and mesenteric adipose tissue to a larger extent than manual stimulation. Manual stimulation improved whole-body glucose tolerance, an effect not observed after electrical stimulation, but did not affect molecular signaling pathways to the same extent as electrical stimulation. Although more functional signaling pathways related to insulin sensitivity were affected by electrical stimulation, our findings suggest that manual stimulation of acupuncture needles has a greater effect on glucose tolerance. The underlying mechanism of the differential effects of the intermittent manual and the continuous electrical stimulation remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Johansson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Louise Mannerås-Holm
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - AnneLiese Olsson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Malin Lönn
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Håkan Billig
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Stener-Victorin
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- * E-mail:
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El-Salam Morsy SA, El-Kholy SM. The effect of methotrexate on the fallopian tubes of adult albino rats. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF HISTOLOGY 2012; 35:833-839. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ehx.0000421474.49893.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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15
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Shao R, Wang X, Wang W, Stener-Victorin E, Mallard C, Brännström M, Billig H. From mice to women and back again: causalities and clues for Chlamydia-induced tubal ectopic pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1175-85. [PMID: 22884019 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Revised: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide an overview of knockout mouse models that have pathological tubal phenotypes after Chlamydia muridarum infection, discuss factors and pathological processes that contribute to inflammation, summarize data on tubal transport and progression of tubal implantation from studies in humans and animal models, and highlight research questions in the field. DESIGN A search of the relevant literature using PubMed and other online tools. SETTING University-based preclinical and clinical research laboratories. PATIENT(S) Women with tubal ectopic pregnancy after Chlamydia trachomatis infection. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Critical review of the literature. RESULT(S) Chlamydia trachomatis infection poses a major threat to human reproduction. Biological and epidemiological evidence suggests that progression of Chlamydia infection causes intense and persistent inflammation, injury, and scarring in the fallopian tube, leading to a substantially increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. The main targets of Chlamydia infection are epithelial cells lining the mucosal surface, which play a central role in host immune responses and pathophysiology. Tubal phenotypes at the cellular level in mutant mice appear to reflect alterations in the balance between inflammatory mediator and factor deficiency. While studies in mice infected with Chlamydia muridarum have provided insight into potential inflammatory mediators linked to fallopian tube pathology, it is unclear how inflammation induced by Chlamydia infection prevents or retards normal tubal transport and causes embryo implantation in the fallopian tube. CONCLUSION(S) Given the similarities in the tubal physiology of humans and rodents, knockout mouse models can be used to study certain aspects of tubal functions, such as gamete transport and early embryo implantation. Elucidation of the exact molecular mechanisms of immune and inflammatory responses caused by Chlamydia infection in human fallopian tubal cells in vitro and understanding how Chlamydia infection affects tubal transport and implantation in animal studies in vivo may explain how Chlamydia trachomatis infection drives inflammation and develops the tubal pathology in women with tubal ectopic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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16
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Shao R, Wang X, Weijdegård B, Norström A, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Brännström M, Billig H. Coordinate regulation of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein dynamics by steroid hormones in the human fallopian tube and endometrium in vivo and in vitro. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 302:E1269-82. [PMID: 22436695 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00673.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs), which are chromatin-associated RNA-binding proteins, participate in mRNA stability, transport, intracellular localization, and translation by acting as transacting factors. Several studies have shown that steroid hormones can regulate hnRNP expression. However, to date, the regulation of hnRNPs and their interactions with steroid hormone signaling in fallopian tubes and endometrium are not fully elucidated. In the present study, we determined whether hnRNP expression is regulated during the menstrual cycle and correlates with estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) levels in human fallopian tubes in vivo. Because of the limited availability of human tubal tissues for the research, we also explored the mechanisms of hnRNP regulation in human endometrium in vitro. Fallopian tissue was obtained from patients in the early, late, and postovulatory phases and the midsecretory phase and endometrial tissue from premenopausal and postmenopausal women undergoing hysterectomy. We measured expression of hnRNPs and assessed their intracellular localization and interactions with ERs and PRs. We also determined the effects of human chorionic gonadotropin, 17β-estradiol (E(2)), and progesterone (P(4)) on hnRNP expression. In fallopian tubes, mRNA and protein levels of hnRNP A1, AB, D, G, H, and U changed dynamically during ovulation and in the midsecretory phase. In coimmunolocation and coimmunoprecipitation experiments, hnRNPs interacted with each other and with ERs and PRs in fallopian tubes. After treatment with E(2) and/or P(4) to activate ERs and PRs, hnRNP A1, AB, D, G, and U proteins displayed overlapping but distinct patterns of regulation in the endometrium in vitro. Our findings expand the physiological repertoire of hnRNPs in human fallopian tubes and endometrium and suggest that steroid hormones regulate different hnRNPs directly by interacting with ERs and/or PRs or indirectly by binding other hnRNPs. Both actions may contribute to regulation of gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Dept. of Physiology/Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Univ. of Gothenburg, Box 434, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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17
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Shao R, Zou S, Wang X, Feng Y, Brännström M, Stener-Victorin E, Billig H. Revealing the hidden mechanisms of smoke-induced fallopian tubal implantation. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:131. [PMID: 22357544 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.098822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is an enigmatic reproductive disorder. Although tubal EP is difficult to predict, several hypotheses about its etiology have been proposed. In retrospective case-control studies, smoking is associated with an increased rate of EPs in the fallopian tube. Studies of experimental animals in vivo and human fallopian tubal tissues in vitro have suggested mechanisms of fallopian tubal damage and dysfunction induced by nicotine and other smoking-related chemicals that may explain this association. However, the pathogenesis of smoking-induced modulation of implantation leading to tubal EP is largely unknown. Because cigarette/tobacco smoke adversely affects the success of intrauterine implantation, there is a great need to determine how embryo implantation occurs in the fallopian tube in female smokers of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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18
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Moniruzzaman M, Maitra SK. Influence of Altered Photoperiods on Serum Melatonin and Its Receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the Brain, Retina, and Ovary in CarpCatla catla. Chronobiol Int 2012; 29:175-88. [DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2011.645753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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19
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Jain R, Javidan-Nejad C, Alexander-Brett J, Horani A, Cabellon MC, Walter MJ, Brody SL. Sensory functions of motile cilia and implication for bronchiectasis. Front Biosci (Schol Ed) 2012; 4:1088-98. [PMID: 22202111 DOI: 10.2741/s320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cilia are specialized organelles that extend from the cell surface into the local environment. Cilia of the airway epithelia are motile to provide mucociliary clearance. On other cells, solitary cilia are specialized to detect chemical or mechanosensory signals. Sensory proteins in motile cilia have recently been identified that detect fluid flow, bitter taste and sex hormones. The relationship of these sensory functions in motile cilia to disease is now being revealed. An example are the polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 proteins that function as a flow sensor in kidney cilia and are mutated in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). These polycystins are also expressed in motile cilia, potentially operating as sensors in the lung. Computed tomography studies from patients with ADPKD reveal evidence of bronchiectasis, suggesting polycystins are important in lung function. The motile cilia expression of this protein complex, as well as sensory channel TRPV4, bitter taste and sex hormones receptors, indicate that the cilia is wired to interpret environmental cues. Defective signaling of sensory proteins may result in a ciliopathy that includes lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Jain
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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20
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Konno A, Setou M, Ikegami K. Ciliary and flagellar structure and function--their regulations by posttranslational modifications of axonemal tubulin. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 294:133-70. [PMID: 22364873 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394305-7.00003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic cilia and flagella are evolutionarily conserved microtubule-based organelles protruding from the cell surface. They perform dynein-driven beating which contributes to cell locomotion or flow generation. They also play important roles in sensing as cellular antennae, which allows cells to respond to various external stimuli. The main components of cilia and flagella, α- and β-tubulins, are known to undergo various posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation, palmitoylation, tyrosination/detyrosination, Δ2 modification, acetylation, glutamylation, and glycylation. Recent identification of tubulin-modifying enzymes, especially tubulin tyrosine ligase-like proteins which perform tubulin glutamylation and glycylation, has demonstrated the importance of tubulin modifications for the assembly and functions of cilia and flagella. In this chapter, we review recent work on PTMs of ciliary and flagellar tubulins in conjunction with discussing the basic knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alu Konno
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
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21
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Jain R, Ray JM, Pan JH, Brody SL. Sex hormone-dependent regulation of cilia beat frequency in airway epithelium. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2011; 46:446-53. [PMID: 22033264 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2011-0107oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated a female disadvantage in airway diseases, such as asthma and bronchiectasis. The basis for this sex disparity is unknown. We hypothesized that the female sex hormone, progesterone (P4), inhibits functions of the normal airway mucociliary apparatus. P4 receptor (PR) expression was evaluated in human lung and cultured primary human airway epithelial cells isolated from male and female lung transplant donors. PR expression was restricted to the proximal region of the cilia of airway epithelia, and was similar in men and women. Expression of isoform PR-B was more abundant than PR-A in cells from both sexes. Airway epithelial cell exposure to P4 decreased cilia beat frequency (CBF) by 42.3% (±7.2). Inhibition of CBF was prevented by coadministration of P4 with the active form of estrogen, 17β-estradiol, or the PR antagonist, mifepristone. P4 inhibition was time and dose dependent, with a significant decrease by 8 hours and maximal effect at 24 hours, accompanied by translocation of PR from the cilia to the nucleus. Inhibition of cilia beat was also prevented by treatment of cells with actinomycin D, suggesting that CBF inhibition is a transcriptionally mediated event. Together, these findings indicate that sex hormones influence the function of a key component of the mucociliary apparatus. These mechanisms may contribute to the sex disparity present in airway diseases and provide therapeutic targets for the treatment of these debilitating airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Jain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
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22
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Protective effect of calcium folinate against methotrexate-induced endosalpinx damage in rats. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1526-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2010] [Revised: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 08/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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23
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Johansson J, Feng Y, Shao R, Lönn M, Billig H, Stener-Victorin E. Intense electroacupuncture normalizes insulin sensitivity, increases muscle GLUT4 content, and improves lipid profile in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2010; 299:E551-9. [PMID: 20663984 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00323.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance, possibly reflecting defects in skeletal muscle and adipocyte insulin signaling. Low-frequency (2 Hz) electroacupuncture (EA) increases insulin sensitivity in female rats with dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced PCOS, but the mechanism is unclear. We hypothesized that low-frequency EA regulates mediators involved in skeletal muscle glucose uptake and metabolism and alters the lipid profile in rats with DHT-induced PCOS. To test this hypothesis, we implanted in prepubescent female rats 90-day continuous-release pellets containing DHT (PCOS). At 70 days of age, the rats were randomly subdivided into two groups: one received low-frequency EA (evoking muscle twitches) for 20-25 min five times/wk for 4-5 wk; the other did not. Controls were implanted with pellets containing vehicle only. All three groups were otherwise handled similarly. Lipid profile was measured in fasting blood samples. Insulin sensitivity was determined by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, soleus muscle protein expression of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), and phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated Akt, and Akt substrate of 160 kDa was determined by Western blot analysis and GLUT4 location by immunofluorescence staining. PCOS EA rats had normalized insulin sensitivity, lower levels of total high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased expression of GLUT4 in different compartments of skeletal muscle compared with PCOS rats. Total weight and body composition did not differ in the groups. Thus, in rats with DHT-induced PCOS, low-frequency EA has systemic and local effects involving intracellular signaling pathways in muscle that may, at least in part, account for the marked improved insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Johansson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Seth M, Maitra SK. Importance of light in temporal organization of photoreceptor proteins and melatonin-producing system in the pineal of carp Catla catla. Chronobiol Int 2010; 27:463-86. [PMID: 20524796 DOI: 10.3109/07420521003666416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The importance of light in the temporal organization of photoreceptor proteins and melatonin-producing system has been investigated for the first time in the pineal of a tropical fish. In this study, an identical experimental paradigm was followed during the four distinct phases of an annual cycle in adult carps (Catla catla) maintained either under natural photoperiod (NP) or continuous illumination (LL) or darkness (DD) for 30 days. At the end of each experiment, the pineal from fish in each experimental group was collected either at 06:00, 12:00, 18:00, or 24:00 in a daily cycle and assessed by Western blot analysis for pineal rod-like opsin, alpha-transducin, and AANAT. The same animals were also used for measurement of serum melatonin levels, and the serum as well as intra-pineal Ca(++) levels at each timepoint. The study revealed a daily rhythmicity with a peak at 12:00 h and nadir at 24:00 h in the band intensity of pineal rod-like opsin and alpha-transducin in NP fish, while the band intensities of these photo-pigment proteins remained high under LL and low under DD, irrespective of clock hour during the 24 h cycle. The band intensity of pineal AANAT, levels of serum melatonin, and both serum Ca(++) and intra-pineal Ca(++) were maximum at 24:00 h and minimum at 12:00h in NP fish, and they were significantly lower under LL and higher under DD at each point of study. The results showed loss of daily rhythm in each studied variable in both LL and DD carps, suggesting that their circadian organization is dependent on the external light-dark conditions, rather than an endogenous circadian oscillator in the pineal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohua Seth
- Department of Zoology, Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan, India
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25
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Li HWR, Liao SB, Chiu PCN, Tam WW, Ho JC, Ng EHY, Ho PC, Yeung WSB, Tang F, O WS. Expression of adrenomedullin in human oviduct, its regulation by the hormonal cycle and contact with spermatozoa, and its effect on ciliary beat frequency of the oviductal epithelium. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:E18-25. [PMID: 20534761 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adrenomedullin (ADM) has been found expressed in the mouse oviduct and might play a role in reproduction. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to demonstrate the expression of ADM in the human oviduct, investigate its regulation by steroidal hormones and spermatozoa contact, and study its effect on ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in the human oviduct. DESIGN, SETTING, PATIENTS, AND INTERVENTIONS: Oviducts from women undergoing hysterectomy for benign diseases in a university hospital were collected. The oviducts were treated with estradiol and/or progesterone to simulate different phases of the ovarian cycle. ADM expression was studied at the peptide and mRNA levels by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR, respectively. CBF was measured after treatment with graded concentrations of ADM and its antagonists. Cells from OE-E6/E7, an immortalized oviductal cell line, as well as oviductal tissue were cocultured with and without direct contact with capacitated human spermatozoa to compare oviductal cell ADM expression levels. CBF was also analyzed in oviductal tissue after spermatozoa-oviduct coincubation. RESULTS ADM expression was the highest in the isthmic region and in a hormonal environment simulating the early luteal phase. CBF was increased by ADM in a dose-dependent manner, which was blocked by ADM and calcitonin-gene-related peptide receptor antagonists. Direct contact with spermatozoa in coculture resulted in higher ADM expression in OE-E6/E7 cell line and oviductal tissue and higher CBF in oviductal epithelium. CONCLUSIONS ADM expression in the human oviduct is hormone dependent and is up-regulated by sperm contact. ADM stimulates ciliary motility of the human oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Wu Raymond Li
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Dechanet C, Anahory T, Mathieu Daude JC, Quantin X, Reyftmann L, Hamamah S, Hedon B, Dechaud H. Effects of cigarette smoking on reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2010; 17:76-95. [PMID: 20685716 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmq033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cigarette smoking is associated with lower fecundity rates, adverse reproductive outcomes and a higher risk of IVF failures. Over the last few decades, prevalence of smoking among women of reproductive age has increased. This review focuses on current knowledge of the potential effects of smoke toxicants on all reproductive stages and the consequences of smoke exposure on reproductive functions. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature on the impact of cigarette smoking and smoke constituents on the different stages of reproductive function, including epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies. We attempted to create hypotheses and find explanations for the deleterious effects of cigarette smoke observed in experimental studies. RESULTS Cigarette smoke contains several thousand components (e.g. nicotine, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and cadmium) with diverse effects. Each stage of reproductive function, folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, embryo transport, endometrial receptivity, endometrial angiogenesis, uterine blood flow and uterine myometrium is a target for cigarette smoke components. The effects of cigarette smoke are dose-dependent and are influenced by the presence of other toxic substances and hormonal status. Individual sensitivity, dose, time and type of exposure also play a role in the impact of smoke constituents on human fertility. CONCLUSIONS All stages of reproductive functions are targets of cigarette smoke toxicants. Further studies are necessary to better understand the deleterious effects of cigarette smoke compounds on the reproductive system in order to improve health care, help to reduce cigarette smoking and provide a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dechanet
- Department of Medicine and Biology of Reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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Shao R, Zhang SX, Weijdegård B, Zou S, Egecioglu E, Norström A, Brännström M, Billig H. Nitric oxide synthases and tubal ectopic pregnancies induced by Chlamydia infection: basic and clinical insights. Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:907-15. [PMID: 20647263 PMCID: PMC2989829 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ectopic pregnancy (EP) remains a common cause of pregnancy-related first trimester death. Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized from L-arginine by three NO synthases (NOS) in different tissues, including the Fallopian tube. Studies of knockout mouse models have improved our understanding of the function of NOS isoforms in reproduction, but their roles and specific mechanisms in infection-induced tubal dysfunction have not been fully elucidated. Here, we provide an overview of the expression, regulation and possible function of NOS isoforms in the Fallopian tube, highlighting the effects of infection-induced changes in the tubal cellular microenvironment (imbalance of NO production) on tubal dysfunction and the potential involvement of NOS isoforms in tubal EP after Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection. The non-equivalent regulation of tubal NOS isoforms during the menstrual cycle suggests that endogenous ovarian steroid hormones regulate NOS in an isoform-specific manner. The current literature suggests that infection with C. trachomatis induces an inflammatory response that eventually leads to tubal epithelial destruction and functional impairment, caused by a high NO output mediated by inducible NOS (iNOS). Therefore, tissue-specific therapeutic approaches to suppress iNOS expression may help to prevent ectopic implantation in patients with prior C. trachomatis infection of the Fallopian tube.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Feng Y, Weijdegård B, Wang T, Egecioglu E, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Huhtaniemi I, Stener-Victorin E, Billig H, Shao R. Spatiotemporal expression of androgen receptors in the female rat brain during the oestrous cycle and the impact of exogenous androgen administration: a comparison with gonadally intact males. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 321:161-74. [PMID: 20197080 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2009] [Revised: 02/18/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the regulation and cellular distribution of androgen receptors (ARs) in female rodent brains at various stages of the oestrous cycle. This information is critical for further studies of androgen signalling in the regulation of brain function under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In this report, we show that the distribution of AR immunoreactivity in the female rat brain is consistent with reported AR mRNA hybridisation signals in the male brain, except for the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses performed herein revealed that the onset of region-specific changes in AR proteins was strongly correlated with circulating and ovarian levels of estradiol and testosterone across the oestrous cycle. During the metestrus and diestrus stages, however, the highest levels of AR expression were abolished by chronic dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment. This demonstrates that fluctuations in endogenous androgens are required for the regulation of AR expression in the female rat brain. Colocalisation studies revealed that: (1) anatomical variations in AR protein localisation existed between female and male brains, (2) AR immunoreactivity was both neuronal and non-neuronal, and (3) AR protein expression was lower in female rat brains at all stages of the oestrous cycle compared to age-matched males. Our results indicate the presence of regional sex differences in AR expression and changes in the proportion of AR between different subcellular compartments. Furthermore, DHT was found to down-regulate the level of AR in the subcellular compartment in females in a region-specific manner. As a whole, the present study provides the first step toward understanding the dynamics of AR expression and regulation in the brain during normal physiological conditions and for differences in neuronal androgen effects based on sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Feng
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Bloodgood RA. Sensory reception is an attribute of both primary cilia and motile cilia. J Cell Sci 2010; 123:505-9. [PMID: 20144998 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.066308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A recent cluster of papers has shown that motile cilia in the respiratory and reproductive tracts of humans and other mammals can exhibit sensory functions, a function previously attributed primarily to non-motile primary cilia. This leads to a new paradigm that all cilia and flagella (both motile and primary) can mediate sensory functions. However, examination of the literature shows that evidence of sensory functions of motile cilia and flagella is widespread in studies of invertebrates, and extends as back as far as 1899. In this Opinion article, I review the recent and historical findings that motile cilia have a variety of sensory functions, and discuss how this concept has in fact been evolving for the past century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Bloodgood
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0732, USA.
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Photoreceptor proteins and melatonin rhythm generating AANAT in the carp pineal: Temporal organization and correlation with natural photo-thermal cues. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2010; 99:21-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2010.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2009] [Revised: 01/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Shao R. Understanding the mechanisms of human tubal ectopic pregnancies: new evidence from knockout mouse models. Hum Reprod 2009; 25:584-7. [PMID: 20023297 PMCID: PMC2817566 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ectopic pregnancy, a worldwide health problem, is potentially life-threatening and occurs in approximately 1.5–2% of all pregnancies in the western world; however, the precise mechanisms underlying the initiation and development of tubal ectopic pregnancy are unknown. Tubal abnormalities and dysfunction, such as altered contractility or abnormal ciliary activity, have been speculated to lead to tubal ectopic pregnancy. To elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the tubal transport process, several knockout (KO) mouse models have been developed. This review summarizes what has been learned from studies of the Fallopian tube in caspase-1, cannabinoid receptor and Dicer1 KO mice. Our understanding of the mechanisms which contribute to tubal ectopic pregnancy in humans may be enhanced through further study of these KO mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Orihuela PA, Zuñiga LM, Rios M, Parada-Bustamante A, Sierralta WD, Velásquez LA, Croxatto HB. Mating changes the subcellular distribution and the functionality of estrogen receptors in the rat oviduct. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:139. [PMID: 19948032 PMCID: PMC2789086 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mating changes the mode of action of 17beta-estradiol (E2) to accelerate oviductal egg transport from a nongenomic to a genomic mode, although in both pathways estrogen receptors (ER) are required. This change was designated as intracellular path shifting (IPS). METHODS Herein, we examined the subcellular distribution of ESR1 and ESR2 (formerly known as ER-alpha and ER-beta) in oviductal epithelial cells of rats on day 1 of cycle (C1) or pregnancy (P1) using immunoelectron microscopy for ESR1 and ESR2. The effect of mating on intraoviductal ESR1 or ESR2 signaling was then explored comparing the expression of E2-target genes c-fos, brain creatine kinase (Ckb) and calbindin 9 kDa (s100g) in rats on C1 or P1 treated with selective agonists for ESR1 (PPT) or ESR2 (DPN). The effect of ER agonists on egg transport was also evaluated on C1 or P1 rats. RESULTS Receptor immunoreactivity was associated with the nucleus, cytoplasm and plasma membrane of the epithelial cells. Mating affected the subcellular distribution of both receptors as well as the response to E2. In C1 and P1 rats, PPT increased Ckb while both agonists increased c-fos. DPN increased Ckb and s100g only in C1 and P1 rats, respectively. PPT accelerated egg transport in both groups and DPN accelerated egg transport only in C1 rats. CONCLUSION Estrogen receptors present a subcellular distribution compatible with E2 genomic and nongenomic signaling in the oviductal epithelial cells of C1 and P1 although IPS occurs independently of changes in the distribution of ESR1 and ESR2 in the oviductal epithelial cells. Mating affected intraoviductal ER-signaling and induced loss of functional involvement of ESR2 on E2-induced accelerated egg transport. These findings reveal a profound influence on the ER signaling pathways exerted by mating in the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro A Orihuela
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro para el Desarrollo en Nanociencia y Nanotecnología-CEDENNA, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lidia M Zuñiga
- Millennium Institute for Fundamental and Applied Biology, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariana Rios
- Unidad de Reproducción y Desarrollo, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Walter D Sierralta
- Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis A Velásquez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro para el Desarrollo en Nanociencia y Nanotecnología-CEDENNA, Santiago, Chile
| | - Horacio B Croxatto
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro para el Desarrollo en Nanociencia y Nanotecnología-CEDENNA, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute for Fundamental and Applied Biology, Santiago, Chile
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Examination of the effects of methotrexate on histological and steroid receptor changes in the endosalpinx of the rat. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2009; 146:193-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2009.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2008] [Revised: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 05/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Nutu M, Weijdegård B, Thomas P, Thurin-Kjellberg A, Billig H, Larsson DGJ. Distribution and hormonal regulation of membrane progesterone receptors beta and gamma in ciliated epithelial cells of mouse and human fallopian tubes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:89. [PMID: 19715581 PMCID: PMC2744921 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2009] [Accepted: 08/28/2009] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The controlled beating of cilia of the fallopian tube plays an important role in facilitating the meeting of gametes and subsequently transporting the fertilized egg to its implantation site. Rapid effects of progesterone on ciliary beat frequency have been reported in the fallopian tubes of cows, but the identity of the receptors mediating this non-genomic action of progesterone is not known. We recently identified a member of the non-genomic membrane progesterone receptor family, mPR gamma, as a candidate for mediating these actions of progesterone. Here, we investigated the possible presence of a related receptor, mPR beta, in the fallopian tubes of mice and women as well as the possible hormonal regulation of mPR beta and gamma. METHODS Western blot and immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies were used to characterize the expression and cellular localization of the mPRs in mouse and human tissues. Taqman (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) assays were used to quantify mRNA levels in the fallopian tubes of two different mouse models after injections with different hormones and specific antagonists. RESULTS In the fallopian tubes of both mouse and human, the expression of mPR beta and mPR gamma proteins was exclusively found in the ciliated cells. Whereas mPR beta was found on the cilia, mPR gamma was localized at the base of the same ciliated cells, as previously reported. In gonadotropin-primed mice, both mPRs genes were down-regulated after an injection with progesterone. Treatment with estradiol rapidly down-regulated the level of mPR beta mRNA and protein in immature mice. The mPR gamma protein was down-regulated around the time of ovulation in cycling women, similar to the regulation observed in mice stimulated to ovulate via gonadotropin injections. CONCLUSION Our findings show the presence and hormonal regulation of two distinct mPRs associated with the cilia of the fallopian tubes in both mice and women. It is hypothesized that these receptors are involved in the control of ciliary movement and, thus, gamete transport in the fallopian tubes of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Nutu
- Department of Neurosciences and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 434, SE-40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Weijdegård
- Department of Neurosciences and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 434, SE-40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstretics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Blå Stråket 6, SE-41345, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channel View Drive, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| | - Ann Thurin-Kjellberg
- Department of Obstretics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Blå Stråket 6, SE-41345, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Neurosciences and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 434, SE-40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - DG Joakim Larsson
- Department of Neurosciences and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 434, SE-40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Shao R, Nutu M, Karlsson-Lindahl L, Benrick A, Weijdegård B, Lager S, Egecioglu E, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Ohlsson C, Jansson JO, Billig H. Downregulation of cilia-localized Il-6Rα by 17β-estradiol in mouse and human fallopian tubes. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2009; 297:C140-51. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00047.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The action of interleukin-6 (IL-6) impacts female reproduction. Although IL-6 was recently shown to inhibit cilia activity in human fallopian tubes in vitro, the molecular mechanisms underlying IL-6 signaling to tubal function remain elusive. Here, we investigate the cellular localization, regulation, and possible function of two IL-6 receptors (IL-6Rα and gp130) in mouse and human fallopian tubes in vivo. We show that IL-6Rα is restricted to the cilia of epithelial cells in both mouse and human fallopian tubes. Exogenous 17β-estradiol (E2), but not progesterone (P4), causes a time-dependent decrease in IL-6Rα expression, which is blocked by the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI-182,780. Exposure of different ER-selective agonists propyl-(1H)-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl-trisphenol or 2,3-bis-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile demonstrated an ER subtype-specific regulation of IL-6Rα in mouse fallopian tubes. In contrast to IL-6Rα, gp130 was detected in tubal epithelial cells in mice but not in humans. In humans, gp130 was found in the muscle cells and was decreased in the periovulatory and luteal phases during the reproductive cycles, indicating a species-specific expression and regulation of gp130 in the fallopian tube. Expression of tubal IL-6Rα and gp130 in IL-6 knockout mice was found to be normal; however, E2 treatment increased IL-6Rα, but not gp130, in IL-6 knockout mice when compared with wild-type mice. Furthermore, expression levels of IL-6Rα, but not gp130, decreased in parallel with estrogenic accelerated oocyte-cumulus complex (OCC) transport in mouse fallopian tubes. Our findings open the posibility that cilia-specific IL-6Rα may play a role in the regulation of OCC transport and suggest an estrogen-regulatory pathway of IL-6Rα in the fallopian tube.
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Shao R, Nutu M, Weijdegård B, Egecioglu E, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Karlsson-Lindahl L, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Bergh C, Billig H. Clomiphene Citrate Causes Aberrant Tubal Apoptosis and Estrogen Receptor Activation in Rat Fallopian Tube: Implications for Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy1. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:1262-71. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.074237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Expression and localization of growth hormone receptor in the oviduct of cyclic and pregnant pigs and mid-implantation conceptuses. Histochem Cell Biol 2009; 131:773-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-009-0573-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hernández-Ochoa I, Karman BN, Flaws JA. The role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the female reproductive system. Biochem Pharmacol 2009; 77:547-59. [PMID: 18977336 PMCID: PMC2657805 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2008.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2008] [Revised: 09/24/2008] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, many studies have emphasized how changes in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-mediated gene expression result in biological effects, raising interest in this receptor as a regulator of normal biological function. This review focuses on what is known about the role of the AHR in the female reproductive system, which includes the ovaries, Fallopian tubes or oviduct, uterus and vagina. This review also focuses on the role of the AHR in reproductive outcomes such as cyclicity, senescence, and fertility. Specifically, studies using potent AHR ligands, as well as transgenic mice lacking the AHR-signaling pathway are discussed from a viewpoint of understanding the endogenous role of this ligand-activated transcription factor in the female reproductive lifespan. Based on findings highlighted in this paper, it is proposed that the AHR has a role in physiological functions including ovarian function, establishment of an optimum environment for fertilization, nourishing the embryo and maintaining pregnancy, as well as in regulating reproductive lifespan and fertility. The mechanisms by which the AHR regulates female reproduction are poorly understood, but it is anticipated that new models and the ability to generate specific gene deletions will provide powerful experimental tools for better understanding how alterations in AHR pathways result in functional changes in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Hernández-Ochoa
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Chattoraj A, Seth M, Maitra SK. Localization and dynamics of Mel(1a) melatonin receptor in the ovary of carp Catla catla in relation to serum melatonin levels. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2008; 152:327-33. [PMID: 19068233 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2008.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2008] [Revised: 11/03/2008] [Accepted: 11/09/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
We studied the localization, sub-cellular distribution and daily rhythms of a 37 kDa melatonin receptor (Mel(1a)R) in the ovary to assess its temporal relationship with the serum melatonin levels in four different reproductive phases in carp Catla catla. Our immunocytochemical study accompanied by Western blot analysis of Mel(1a)R in the ovary revealed that the expression of this 37-kDa protein was greater in the membrane fraction than in the cytosol. Ovarian Mel(1a)R protein peaked at midnight and fell at midday in each reproductive phase. Conversely, serum melatonin levels in the same fish demonstrated a minimum diurnal value at midday in all seasons, but a peak at midnight (during pre-spawning, spawning, and post-spawning phases) or at late dark phase (during preparatory phase). In an annual cycle, band intensity of Mel(1a)R protein showed a maximum at night in the spawning phase and a minimum in the post-spawning phase, demonstrating an inverse relationship with the levels of serum melatonin. Our data provide first evidence of the presence of Mel(1a) melatonin receptor in carp ovary and offer interesting perspectives especially for the study of the mechanisms of the control of its rhythmicity and its response to external factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asamanja Chattoraj
- Department of Zoology, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan 731235, India
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Shao R, Nutu M, Weijdegård B, Egecioglu E, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Tallet E, Goffin V, Ling C, Billig H. Differences in Prolactin Receptor (PRLR) in Mouse and Human Fallopian Tubes: Evidence for Multiple Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling PRLR Isoform Expression in Mice1. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:748-57. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.070003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Sengupta A, Chakrabarti N, Sridaran R. Presence of immunoreactive gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and its receptor (GnRHR) in rat ovary during pregnancy. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:1031-44. [PMID: 17935160 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The present study aims at quantification of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) by radioimmunoassay, relative expression of its mRNA by real-time PCR accompanied by its cellular localization in the rat ovary by immunonohistochemistry (IHC) during different time points of pregnancy. To determine the involvement of endogenous ovarian GnRH in receptor mediated local autocrine/paracrine functions within the ovary, the cell specific localization of the classical receptor for GnRH (GnRHR) in the ovary by IHC and expression pattern of its mRNA were studied during pregnancy. Receptor expression during each time point within the ovary was reconfirmed by Western blot analysis accompanied by densitometric analysis of the signal intensity. Results reveal that the content of ovarian GnRH reaches its maximum on Day 20. The densitometric analysis of GnRHR receptor expression from Western blot study exhibits a decreasing trend by Day 20. Presence of GnRH and GnRHR mRNA in the ovary indicates the local synthesis of both ligand and receptor in the rat ovary. Differential expression of GnRH/GnRHR in the corpus luteum throughout pregnancy strengthens the hypothesis of the involvement of ovarian GnRH in local ovarian functions by receptor-mediated mechanisms. The expression of GnRH and GnRHR in the atretic antral follicles is indicative of the possible involvement of this decapeptide in processes like follicular atresia. The expression of GnRH/GnRHR in the nonatretic antral follicles and their oocytes requires further in-depth investigation. Collectively, this study for the first time reveals the presence of endogenous ovarian GnRH/GnRHR supporting their possible involvement in local autocrine/paracrine functions during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30310-1495, USA
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Shao R, Egecioglu E, Weijdegård B, Kopchick JJ, Fernandez-Rodriguez J, Andersson N, Billig H. Dynamic regulation of estrogen receptor-alpha isoform expression in the mouse fallopian tube: mechanistic insight into estrogen-dependent production and secretion of insulin-like growth factors. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2007; 293:E1430-42. [PMID: 17848632 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00384.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptors (ERs) are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily and are involved in regulation of fallopian tube functions (i.e., enhancement of protein secretion, formation of tubal fluid, and regulation of gamete transport). However, the ER subtype-mediated mechanisms underlying these processes have not been completely clarified. Recently, we identified ERbeta expression and localization in rat fallopian tubes, suggesting a potential biological function of ERbeta related to calcium-dependent ciliated beating. Here we provide for the first time insight into the less studied ERalpha isoforms, which mediate estrogen-dependent production and secretion of IGFs in vivo. First, Western blot studies revealed that three ERalpha isoforms were expressed in mouse fallopian tubes. Subsequent immunohistochemical analysis showed that ERalpha was detected in all cell types, whereas ERbeta was mainly localized in ciliated epithelial cells. Second, ERalpha isoform levels were dramatically downregulated in mouse fallopian tubes by treatment with E(2) or PPT, an ERalpha agonist, in a time-dependent manner. Third, the presence of ICI 182,780, an ER antagonist, blocked the E(2)- or PPT-induced downregulation of tubal ERalpha isoform expression in mice. However, alteration of ERalpha immunoreactivity following ICI 182,780 treatment was only detected in epithelial cells of the ampullary region. Fourth, changes in ERalpha isoform expression were found to be coupled to multiple E(2) effects on tubal growth, protein synthesis, and secretion in mouse fallopian tube tissues and fluid. In particular, E(2) exhibited positive regulation of IGF-I and IGF-II protein levels. Finally, using growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene-disrupted mice, we showed that regulation by E(2) of IGF production was independent of GH-induced GHR signaling in mouse fallopian tubes in vivo. These data, together with previous studies from our laboratory, suggest that the long-term effects of estrogen agonist promote IGF synthesis and secretion in mouse tubal epithelial cells and fallopian tube fluid via stimulation of ERalpha.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, SE-41390, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Sengupta A, Sridaran R. Expression and localization of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor in the rat oviduct during pregnancy. J Histochem Cytochem 2007; 56:25-31. [PMID: 17875654 PMCID: PMC2323123 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.7a7289.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent study from our laboratory has shown cellular and ultrastructural distribution of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and the relative expression of its mRNA in the rat oviduct during the postimplantation period of pregnancy (days 7, 9, 16, and 20). To determine the possible autocrine/paracrine involvement of the oviductal GnRH during pregnancy in rats, the present investigation aims at the study of the relative expression of GnRH receptor (GnRHR) mRNA by real-time PCR followed by immunolocalization of the peptide in the oviduct during pregnancy. Semiquantitative analysis of the oviductal GnRHR expression by Western blot was done by densitometry of the signal intensity. Our results indicate the expression of GnRHR mRNA in the rat oviduct throughout the postimplantation period of pregnancy with no significant difference in expression between the selected time points. Immunoreactive GnRHR peptide was localized predominantly in the cytoplasm of the luminal epithelial cells, with less expression in the cytoplasm of the stromal cells and the smooth muscles throughout the oviduct. Signal intensity of GnRHR was significantly lower during day 16 when compared to days 7 and 20. These results, for the first time, support the transcription of GnRHR mRNA and its translation to protein in the rat oviduct throughout the postimplantation period of pregnancy. The lower protein content of GnRHR by day 16 may be indicative of ligand-induced downregulation of the receptor expression. The present investigation thus strengthens our previously postulated hypothesis regarding the receptor-mediated autocrine/paracrine role of oviductal GnRH during pregnancy in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive S.W., Atlanta, GA 30310-1495, USA
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Abstract
Carl Hartman's title of 47 years ago is invoked in tribute to his first recovery of a bovine embryo 30 years before that, and his legacy of an emphasis on the value of descriptive and comparative studies in reproductive biology. The horse's qualification as a farm animal has waned since those times but, in a conference understandably dominated by research in ruminants and pigs, there are lessons to be learned from some peculiarities of equine embryonic development. Morphological and physiological features of the conceptus and its interaction with its environment during the first month of pregnancy are described and discussed, with emphasis on conceptus expansion, experimental study of the capsule and its associated proteins, and steroid production and metabolism by the various tissues within the conceptus. It is also suggested that easy access to entire conceptuses at advanced stages of development in horses offers valuable opportunities for comparative investigation of early organogenesis and fetal membrane differentiation and, possibly, how they are affected by embryo manipulation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Betteridge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
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