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Chen Y, Pu Y, Liu H, Cao A, Du Y, He S, Ai S, Dang Y. A study on the mediating role of serum hormones in the effects of heavy metals on preeclampsia. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124721. [PMID: 39147224 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental heavy metals may pose a risk factor for developing preeclampsia (PE) modified through intervention. This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between serum heavy metal concentrations and PE in pregnant women and whether hormones served as mediating factors in the impact of heavy metals on PE. From October 2020 to 2022, 160 patients with PE and 160 pregnant women with normal deliveries were recruited at Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital. Serum concentrations of manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), progesterone (P), estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), cortisol (Cort), and cortisone (Cor) were measured. Logistic, restricted cubic splines, weighted quantile sum and multivariate linear regression models were employed to account for different aspects and explore the relationships among heavy metals, hormones, and PE. Mediation model analysis was performed to assess the role of hormones in mediation. The median concentrations of Mn, E2, and Cort were lower in the PE group than in the control group. The median concentrations of Cu, Zn, β-hCG, and T were higher in the PE than in the control. Mn, E2, and Cort showed negative associations with PE, while Cu, Zn, β-hCG, and T demonstrated positive associations, as determined through logistic regression. Mn, Cu, and Zn displayed linear dose-response relationships with PE. Zn and Cu had high weights in the positive association model of mixed heavy metal exposure with PE. The mediation analysis revealed that serum E2, P, T, Cort, and Cort/Cor might be potential mediators of the association between heavy metals (Mn, Cu, and Zn) and PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Chen
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yudong Pu
- Precision Medicine Center, The Affiliated Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523326, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Aitong Cao
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yue Du
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Shuzhen He
- Precision Medicine Center, The Affiliated Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523326, China
| | - Shiwei Ai
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yuhui Dang
- Institute of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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Kunz S, Meng Y, Schneider H, Brunnenkant L, Höhne M, Kühnle T, Reincke M, Theodoropoulou M, Bidlingmaier M. Fast and reliable quantification of aldosterone, cortisol and cortisone via LC-MS/MS to study 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities in primary cell cultures. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 244:106610. [PMID: 39214289 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Cell culture experiments can support characterization of enzymatic activities in healthy and tumorous human tissues. Liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) enables simultaneous measurement of several steroids from a single sample, facilitating analysis of molecular pathways involved in steroid biosynthesis. We developed a reliable but fast method for quantification of cortisol, cortisone and aldosterone in cell culture supernatant. Validation, including investigation of matrix-matched calibration, was performed for two different cell types. Utility of the method was demonstrated in the study of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD11B2) activity under conditions of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid excess in different cell types. Aldosterone, cortisol and cortisone were extracted by liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) with methyl tert-butyl ether from 1 mL of cell culture supernatant. Steroids were separated on a Kinetex biphenyl column (50 ×2.1 mm, 2.6 µm) with gradient elution of water and methanol containing 2 mM ammonium format and analysed in multiple reaction monitoring mode after positive electrospray ionization. Application of the method included cell culture experiments with two different primary cell types, human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCSMC) and human coronary artery endothelial cells (EC). Cells were treated with different concentrations of cortisol, aldosterone and mifepristone, a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist and quantitative PCR was performed. The method exhibits high precision (CV ≤ 6 %) and accuracy (deviation from nominal concentration ≤ 6 %) for concentrations above the limit of quantification (LoQ) which is 0.11, 0.56 and 0.69 nmol/L for aldosterone, cortisone and cortisol, respectively. Calibration curves did not differ when prepared in media or solvent. The method enabled us to confirm activity of HSD11B2 and concentration dependent conversion of cortisol to cortisone in HCSMC (median conversion ratio at 140 nM cortisol = 1.46 %). In contrast we did not observe any HSD11B2 activity in EC. Neither addition of high aldosterone, nor addition of 1 µM mifepristone had impact on glucocorticoid concentrations. Quantitative PCR revealed expression of HSD11B1 and HSD11B2 in HCSMC but not in EC. We present a fast and reliable method for quantification of cortisol, cortisone and aldosterone in cell culture supernatants. The method enabled us to study HSD11B2 activity in two different cell types and will support future experiments investigating mechanisms of target organ damage in conditions of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid excess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Kunz
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Yao Meng
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany; Department of geriatric medicine, Gan Su provincial hospital, Dong Gang West Road 204, Lan Zhou 731100, China.
| | - Holger Schneider
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Laura Brunnenkant
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Michaela Höhne
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Tim Kühnle
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Martin Reincke
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Marily Theodoropoulou
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
| | - Martin Bidlingmaier
- Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstraße 5, Munich 80336, Germany.
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Kuralay A, McDonough MC, Resch JM. Control of sodium appetite by hindbrain aldosterone-sensitive neurons. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 592:112323. [PMID: 38936597 PMCID: PMC11381173 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoids play a key role in hydromineral balance by regulating sodium retention and potassium wasting. Through favoring sodium, mineralocorticoids can cause hypertension from fluid overload under conditions of hyperaldosteronism, such as aldosterone-secreting tumors. An often-overlooked mechanism by which aldosterone functions to increase sodium is through stimulation of salt appetite. To drive sodium intake, aldosterone targets neurons in the hindbrain which uniquely express 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD2). This enzyme is a necessary precondition for aldosterone-sensing cells as it metabolizes glucocorticoids - preventing their activation of the mineralocorticoid receptor. In this review, we will consider the role of hindbrain HSD2 neurons in regulating sodium appetite by discussing HSD2 expression in the brain, regulation of hindbrain HSD2 neuron activity, and the circuitry mediating the effects of these aldosterone-sensitive neurons. Reducing the activity of hindbrain HSD2 neurons may be a viable strategy to reduce sodium intake and cardiovascular risk, particularly for conditions of hyperaldosteronism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Kuralay
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Miriam C McDonough
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jon M Resch
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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4
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Katsu Y, Zhang J, Baker ME. Lysine-Cysteine-Serine-Tryptophan inserted into the DNA-binding domain of human mineralocorticoid receptor increases transcriptional activation by aldosterone. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 243:106548. [PMID: 38821293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Due to alternative splicing in an ancestral DNA-binding domain (DBD) of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), humans contain two almost identical MR transcripts with either 984 amino acids (MR-984) or 988 amino acids (MR-988), in which their DBDs differ by only four amino acids, Lys,Cys,Ser,Trp (KCSW). Human MRs also contain mutations at two sites, codons 180 and 241, in the amino terminal domain (NTD). Together, there are five distinct full-length human MR genes in GenBank. Human MR-984, which was cloned in 1987, has been extensively studied. Human MR-988, cloned in 1995, contains KCSW in its DBD. Neither this human MR-988 nor the other human MR-988 genes have been studied for their response to aldosterone and other corticosteroids. Here, we report that transcriptional activation of human MR-988 by aldosterone is increased by about 50 % compared to activation of human MR-984 in HEK293 cells transfected with the TAT3 promoter, while the half-maximal response (EC50) is similar for aldosterone activation of MR-984 and MR-988. Transcriptional activation of human MR also depends on the amino acids at codons 180 and 241. Interestingly, in HEK293 cells transfected with the MMTV promoter, transcriptional activation by aldosterone of human MR-988 is similar to activation of human MR-984, indicating that the promoter has a role in the regulation of the response of human MR-988 to aldosterone. The physiological responses to aldosterone and other corticosteroids in humans with MR genes containing KCSW and with differences at codons 180 and 241 in the NTD warrant investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinao Katsu
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Jiawen Zhang
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michael E Baker
- Division of Nephrology-Hypertension, Department of Medicine, 0693, University of California, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA) University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA.
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5
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Imamovic M, Bäcklund N, Lundstedt S, Brattsand G, Aardal E, Dahlqvist P. Salivary cortisol and cortisone are stable after long-term storage. Scand J Clin Lab Invest 2024:1-5. [PMID: 39263928 DOI: 10.1080/00365513.2024.2403005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Frozen saliva samples are often used for later determination of salivary glucocorticoids in research studies on stress and endocrine disorders. We studied the stability of cortisol and cortisone in saliva after six years of storage at -80 °C by repeated analysis of 153 stored aliquots, collected with Salivette®, using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We found a very high agreement between the first and the repeated measurement after six years at -80 °C, for both cortisol and cortisone concentrations (rs= 0.96 and rs= 0.98, respectively). Passing-Bablok regression equations were y = 0.02 + 1.00x and y = 0.02 + 1.14x for cortisol and cortisone, respectively. We conclude that salivary cortisol and cortisone concentrations remain essentially unaltered after six years of storage at -80 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Imamovic
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Nils Bäcklund
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Göran Brattsand
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Aardal
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Ling LJ, Zhou Q, Zhang F, Lei WJ, Li MD, Lu JW, Wang WS, Sun K, Ying H. The dual role of glucocorticoid regeneration in inflammation at parturition. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1459489. [PMID: 39290694 PMCID: PMC11405189 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1459489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fetal membrane inflammation is an integral event of parturition. However, excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines can impose threats to the fetus. Coincidentally, the fetal membranes express abundant 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1), which generates biologically active cortisol to promote labor through induction of prostaglandin synthesis. Given the well-recognized anti-inflammatory actions of glucocorticoids, we hypothesized that cortisol regenerated in the fetal membranes might be engaged in restraining fetus-hazardous pro-inflammatory cytokine production for the safety of the fetus, while reserving pro-labor effect on prostaglandin synthesis to ensure safe delivery of the fetus. Methods The hypothesis was examined in human amnion tissue and cultured primary human amnion fibroblasts as well as a mouse model. Results 11β-HSD1 was significantly increased in the human amnion in infection-induced preterm birth. Studies in human amnion fibroblasts showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced 11β-HSD1 expression synergistically with cortisol. Cortisol completely blocked NF-κB-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokine expression by LPS, but STAT3-mediated cyclooxygenase 2 expression, a crucial prostaglandin synthetic enzyme, remained. Further studies in pregnant mice showed that corticosterone did not delay LPS-induced preterm birth, but alleviated LPS-induced fetal organ damages, along with increased 11β-HSD1, cyclooxygenase 2, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine in the fetal membranes. Discussion There is a feed-forward cortisol regeneration in the fetal membranes in infection, and cortisol regenerated restrains pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, while reserves pro-labor effect on prostaglandin synthesis. This dual role of cortisol regeneration can prevent excessive pro-inflammatory cytokine production, while ensure in-time delivery for the safety of the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Ling
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jia Lei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Die Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang-Wen Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Wang-Sheng Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Kang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Ying
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, China
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Bailey NA, Davis EP, Sandman CA, Glynn LM. DHEA: a neglected biological signal that may affect fetal and child development. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:1145-1155. [PMID: 38426566 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The stress-sensitive maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis through the end-product cortisol, represents a primary pathway through which maternal experience shapes fetal development with long-term consequences for child neurodevelopment. However, there is another HPA axis end-product that has been widely ignored in the study of human pregnancy. The synthesis and release of dehydroepiandosterone (DHEA) is similar to cortisol, so it is a plausible, but neglected, biological signal that may influence fetal neurodevelopment. DHEA also may interact with cortisol to determine developmental outcomes. Surprisingly, there is virtually nothing known about human fetal exposure to prenatal maternal DHEA and offspring neurodevelopment. The current study examined, for the first time, the joint impact of fetal exposure to prenatal maternal DHEA and cortisol on infant emotional reactivity. METHODS Participants were 124 mother-infant dyads. DHEA and cortisol were measured from maternal hair at 15 weeks (early gestation) and 35 weeks (late gestation). Observational assessments of positive and negative emotional reactivity were obtained in the laboratory when the infants were 6 months old. Pearson correlations were used to examine the associations between prenatal maternal cortisol, prenatal maternal DHEA, and infant positive and negative emotional reactivity. Moderation analyses were conducted to investigate whether DHEA might modify the association between cortisol and emotional reactivity. RESULTS Higher levels of both early and late gestation maternal DHEA were linked to greater infant positive emotional reactivity. Elevated late gestation maternal cortisol was associated with greater negative emotional reactivity. Finally, the association between fetal cortisol exposure and infant emotional reactivity was only observed when DHEA was low. CONCLUSIONS These new observations indicate that DHEA is a potential maternal biological signal involved in prenatal programming. It appears to act both independently and jointly with cortisol to determine a child's emotional reactivity. Its role as a primary end-product of the HPA axis, coupled with the newly documented associations with prenatal development shown here, strongly calls for the inclusion of DHEA in future investigations of fetal programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha A Bailey
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Elysia Poggi Davis
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Curt A Sandman
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Laura M Glynn
- Department of Psychology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, USA
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Chen Z, Wei D, Zhao M, Shi J, Ma C, Zhang C, Lin H, Huo W, Wang C, Fan C, Mao Z. Associations of serum glucocorticoid levels on hypertension and blood pressure-related indicators: a nested case-control study in rural China. J Hypertens 2024; 42:1555-1565. [PMID: 38747439 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between glucocorticoids and hypertension has shown inconsistent findings in previous studies. To address this, our study employed a nested case-control design in rural areas to further investigate the association between serum glucocorticoid levels and hypertension, and blood pressure-related indicators. METHODS This study employed a nested case-control design, involving 560 pairs of hypertensive cases and matched controls. The concentrations of serum cortisol (F), cortisone (E) and 11-deoxycortisol (S) were determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We employed various methods, including generalized linear model (GLM), conditional logistic regression model, restricted cubic spline regression, subgroup analysis, interaction, and joint effects, with adjustments for multiple covariates to analyze the relationships between glucocorticoids, hypertension, and blood pressure-related indicators. RESULTS After multivariable adjustments, ln-F, ln-F/E, and ln-S were positively associated with SBP, DBP, pulse pressure (PP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), while ln-E was negatively associated with DBP and MAP ( P < 0.05). Interestingly, ln-S showed no statistically significant association with hypertension prevalence ( P > 0.05), whereas ln-F and ln-F/E were positively associated with it ( P < 0.05). The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 1.153 (1.011-1.315) for ln-F and 2.072 (1.622-2.645) for ln-F/E, respectively. In contrast, ln-E exhibited a negative association with hypertension prevalence (adjusted OR = 0.837, 95% CI 0.714-0.982). Moreover, a significant association was observed between the combined use of high-dose F/E and high-dose S with hypertension prevalence (adjusted OR = 3.273, 95% CI 2.013-5.321). Blood pressure indicators and hypertension prevalence significantly increased with elevated serum F and F/E concentrations ( P < 0.05). Interaction analysis further revealed that among women, the positive association between F/E and hypertension prevalence was more pronounced than in men ( P < 0.05), and S exhibited a more significant positive association with hypertension prevalence in the overweight population ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Serum F/E and S levels demonstrated positive associations with hypertension and blood pressure-related indicators, and their combined influence exhibited a synergistic effect on hypertension. Notably, F, F/E, and S were associated with heightened hypertension risk, warranting particular attention in women and overweight populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Dandan Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Mengzhen Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Jiayu Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Cuicui Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Hualiang Lin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat Sen University, Guangzhou
| | - Wenqian Huo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Chongjian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
| | - Caini Fan
- Department of Hypertension, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou
| | - Zhenxing Mao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan
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9
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Weber RJ, Kawaja C, Wallerstein R, Kunwar SM, Liu C. Impaired 11β-HSD1 Activity in a Male Patient With Cushing Disease Resulting in Lack of the Full Cushingoid Phenotype. JCEM CASE REPORTS 2024; 2:luae158. [PMID: 39238944 PMCID: PMC11375565 DOI: 10.1210/jcemcr/luae158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
We present a patient who had surgically confirmed CD but without the full cushingoid phenotype despite markedly elevated cortisol. Nonpathologic causes of elevated ACTH and cortisol were eliminated as were pathogenic variants in the glucocorticoid receptor gene. Further studies of urine metabolites, cortisol half-life, and the ratios of cortisone to cortisol conversion revealed impaired 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) activity. There have only been 2 prior reports of impaired 11β-HSD1 resulting in lack of classic cushingoid features in the past 2 decades. Our patient's presentation and previous reports demonstrate the key role of 11β-HSD1 in modulating intracellular cortisol concentration, therefore shielding the peripheral tissues from the effects of excess cortisol. When patients present with markedly elevated cortisol but without classic cushingoid features, impaired 11β-HSD1 should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Weber
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | - Robert Wallerstein
- Department of Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Sandeep M Kunwar
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Chienying Liu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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10
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Şeker E, Kraja E, Çakır MS, Köstekçi YE, Obut M, Okulu E, Erdeve Ö, Atasay FB, Arsan S, Koç A. Should the sex of the fetus be considered when administering antenatal corticosteroids to preterm fetuses? J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024. [PMID: 39187973 DOI: 10.1111/jog.16062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
AIM We aimed to determine whether the effect of antenatal corticosteroids (ANS) differs in male and female fetuses without anomalies born before 32 weeks in terms of mortality and short-term morbidity. METHODS This single-center retrospective study included infants born before 32 weeks' gestation and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2020. RESULTS The study included 210 infants with a median gestational age of 28.6 weeks (24-31.6), a birth weight of 1065 g (445-2165), and an ANS use rate of 80%. Compared to female fetuses exposed to ANS, male fetuses exposed to ANS had a lower mortality rate (23% and 11%, respectively, p = 0.038), but there were no differences in intraventricular hemorrhage, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, respiratory distress syndrome, and APGAR scores of 1st and 5th but an increased rate of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (moderate/severe) (p = 0.008). In addition, the mortality rate was similar in exposed and unexposed female fetuses (p = 0.850). Enzyme activities and steroid levels in the placenta might be different in male and female fetuses, which could explain the results of ANS administration. CONCLUSIONS In our study, we have shown that ANS has no effect on mortality in female fetuses younger than 32 weeks. Future studies may focus on adjusting the administration of ANS based on fetal sex, altering the dose or taking fetal sex into account when performing ANS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erdal Şeker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Osmaniye State Hospital, Osmaniye, Turkey
| | - Elvis Kraja
- Department of Neonatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Maide Selin Çakır
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Mehmet Obut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi Yasargil Education and Training Hospital, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Emel Okulu
- Department of Neonatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ömer Erdeve
- Department of Neonatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Begüm Atasay
- Department of Neonatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Saadet Arsan
- Department of Neonatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Acar Koç
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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11
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Petramala L, Circosta F, Marino L, Palombi E, Costanzo ML, Servello A, Galardo G, Letizia C. Clinical Evaluation of Adrenal Incidentaloma: The Experience of a Referral Center. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1910. [PMID: 39200374 PMCID: PMC11351527 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12081910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of adrenal incidentaloma (AI) cases has increased in the last few years due to the widespread use of imaging diagnostics. Management requires evaluation of the malignant nature and hormonal activity. The aim of the present study is to assess possible clinical abnormalities in 132 AI patients both at baseline and during follow-up (mean 48.6 ± 12.5 months). In all patients, demographic, anthropometric data, biochemical, metabolic and hormonal data, and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were assessed. Mild autonomous cortisol secretions (MACS) were diagnosed in patients without signs and symptoms of overt Cushing's syndrome and post dexamethasone (DXM) plasma cortisol concentration > 50 nmol/L (>1.8 μg/dL). Patients with overnight DXM-1 mg test positive showed higher values of diastolic blood pressure, glycemia and uric acid levels compared to patients with negative DXM test at baseline. During follow-up, the potential development of MACS in patients with nonfunctional AI showed a prevalence of 29%, though the cardiovascular and metabolic alterations were less pronounced compared to those diagnosed with MACS at baseline. Therefore, follow-ups with AI patients are useful for observing changes in clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Petramala
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Francesco Circosta
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.C.); (M.L.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Luca Marino
- Emergency Medicine Unit, Department of Emergency-Acceptance, Critical Areas and Trauma, Policlinico “Umberto I”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (A.S.); (G.G.)
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Palombi
- Emergency Medicine Unit, Department of Emergency-Acceptance, Critical Areas and Trauma, Policlinico “Umberto I”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (A.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Maria Ludovica Costanzo
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.C.); (M.L.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Adriana Servello
- Emergency Medicine Unit, Department of Emergency-Acceptance, Critical Areas and Trauma, Policlinico “Umberto I”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (A.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Gioacchino Galardo
- Emergency Medicine Unit, Department of Emergency-Acceptance, Critical Areas and Trauma, Policlinico “Umberto I”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (A.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Claudio Letizia
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.C.); (M.L.C.); (C.L.)
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12
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Milosevic A, Milosevic K, Zivkovic A, Lavrnja I, Savic D, Bjelobaba I, Janjic MM. Alterations in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis as a Response to Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Dark Agouti Rats of Both Sexes. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1020. [PMID: 39199407 PMCID: PMC11352252 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system, usually diagnosed during the reproductive period. Both MS and its commonly used animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), exhibit sex-specific features regarding disease progression and disturbances in the neuroendocrine and endocrine systems. This study investigates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response of male and female Dark Agouti rats during EAE. At the onset of EAE, Crh expression in the hypothalamus of both sexes is decreased, while males show reduced plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone levels. Adrenal gland activity is increased during EAE in both males and females, as evidenced by enlarged adrenal glands and increased StAR gene and protein expression. However, only male rats show increased serum and adrenal corticosterone levels, and an increased volume of the adrenal cortex. Adrenal 3β-HSD protein and progesterone levels are elevated in males only. Serum progesterone levels of male rats are also increased, although testicular progesterone levels are decreased during the disease, implying that the adrenal gland is the source of elevated serum progesterone levels in males. Our results demonstrate a sex difference in the response of the HPA axis at the adrenal level, with male rats showing a more pronounced induction during EAE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marija M. Janjic
- Department for Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Sinisa Stankovic”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.M.); (K.M.); (A.Z.); (I.L.); (D.S.); (I.B.)
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13
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Flatt EE, Alderman SL. 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 may mediate the stress-specific effects of cortisol on brain cell proliferation in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb248020. [PMID: 39092490 PMCID: PMC11418181 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.248020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Stress-induced increases in cortisol can stimulate or inhibit brain cell proliferation, but the mechanisms behind these opposing effects are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (Hsd11b2), a glucocorticoid-inactivating enzyme expressed in neurogenic regions of the adult zebrafish brain, mitigates cortisol-induced changes to brain cell proliferation, using one of three stress regimes: a single 1 min air exposure (acute stress), two air exposures spaced 24 h apart (repeat acute stress) or social subordination (chronic stress). Plasma cortisol was significantly elevated 15 min after air exposure and recovered within 24 h after acute and repeat acute stress, whereas subordinate fish exhibited significant and sustained elevations relative to dominant fish for 24 h. Following acute stress, brain hsd11b2 transcript abundance was elevated up to 6 h after a single air exposure but was unchanged by repeat acute stress or social subordination. A sustained increase in brain Hsd11b2 protein levels occurred after acute stress, but not after repeat or chronic stress. Following acute and repeat acute stress, brain pcna transcript abundance (a marker of cell proliferation) exhibited a prolonged elevation, but was unaffected by social subordination. Interestingly, the number of telencephalic BrdU+ cells increased in fish after a single air exposure but was unchanged by repeat acute stress. Following acute and repeat acute stress, fish expressed lower brain glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor (gr and mr) transcript abundance while subordinate fish exhibited no changes. Taken together, these results demonstrate stressor-specific regulation of Hsd11b2 in the zebrafish brain that could modulate rates of cortisol catabolism contributing to observed differences in brain cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Emma Flatt
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - Sarah L. Alderman
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
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14
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Szendrey J, Poindexter A, Braden G. Glycyrrhizic acid induced acquired apparent mineralocorticoid excess syndrome with a hyperadrenergic state: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2024; 18:358. [PMID: 39107810 PMCID: PMC11304571 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-024-04674-1] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syndrome of apparent mineralocorticoid excess (AME) is characterized by excessive MR stimulation despite low levels of aldosterone. 11Beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 (11βDSH-2) inactivates cortisol to cortisone, preventing cortisol-induced MR activation. Genetic defects in 11βDSH-2 cause AME through accumulation of cortisol in the distal nephron, leading to MR activation induced hypertension, hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis. Acquired AME can occur due to the ingestion of glycyrrhizic acid, found in licorice root, which inhibits 11βDSH-2 and has additional effects on cortisol homeostasis through inhibition of 11βDSH-1. CASE REPORT We present a case of acquired AME with a hyperadrenergic symptoms induced by ingestion of Advanced Liver Support, a nutritional supplement produced by Advanced BioNutritionals(R), in a 65-year-old Caucasian female who presented with accelerated hypertension, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and adrenergic symptoms. Cessation of the licorice-containing supplement resulted in complete resolution of the patient's hypertension, symptoms and abnormal lab values. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of AME from this supplement, and the first to describe accompanying hyperadrenergic symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Glycyrrhizic acid is increasingly being found in unregulated nutritional supplements and has the potential to induce a reversable syndrome of AME. Acquired AME should be suspected in individuals who present with hypertension along with hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and low plasma renin and serum aldosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Szendrey
- Department of Internal Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA, 01199, USA.
| | - Anthony Poindexter
- Division of Nephrology, UMass Chan Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
| | - Gregory Braden
- Division of Nephrology, UMass Chan Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
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15
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Li Z, Liu B. Two-dimensional high performance liquid chromatography purification of underivatized urinary prednisone and prednisolone for compound-specific stable carbon isotope analysis. Analyst 2024. [PMID: 39101749 DOI: 10.1039/d4an00690a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The gas chromatography-combustion isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS) confirmation procedure for prednisone (PS) and prednisolone (PSL) is still a great challenge for the doping control laboratory due to the many structurally similar steroids present in urinary matrices. This study aims to establish an innovative online two-dimensional high performance liquid chromatography (2D-HPLC) purification method for measuring the carbon isotope ratios (CIRs) and achieving the identification of the synthetic forms of these two endogenous anabolic androgenic steroids (EAASs). Initially, the one-dimensional chromatographic column was used to separate and purify endogenous reference compounds (ERCs), and the co-elution fluids containing PS and PSL were switched to a two-dimensional chromatographic column for further purification through an online transfer system. Then the purified compounds were analyzed using GC/C/IRMS after sample pretreatments. The results showed that the minimum detection concentration of PS and PSL reached 30 ng mL-1, and no isotope fractionation occurred during the entire collection and preparation process. This method has been validated with the WADA technical document and showed good sensitivity and selectivity, demonstrating its practical applicability for urine samples in doping control laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongquan Li
- Research Institute for Doping Control, Shanghai University of Sport, 900 Jiangwancheng Road, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Bing Liu
- Research Institute for Doping Control, Shanghai University of Sport, 900 Jiangwancheng Road, Shanghai 200438, China.
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16
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Yuan X, An G. Characterizing the Nonlinear Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of BI 187004, an 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 Inhibitor, in Humans by a Target-Mediated Drug Disposition Model. J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 64:993-1005. [PMID: 38652112 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2438] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BI 187004, a selective small-molecule inhibitor of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-1 (11β-HSD1), displayed complex nonlinear pharmacokinetics (PK) in humans. Following nine single oral doses, BI 187004 exhibited nonlinear PK at low doses and linear PK at higher doses. Notably, substantial hepatic 11β-HSD1 inhibition (50%) was detected in a very low-dose group, achieving a consistent 70% hepatic enzyme inhibition in subsequent ascending doses without any dose-dependent effects. The unusual PK and PD profiles of BI 187004 suggest the presence of pharmacological target-mediated drug disposition (TMDD), arising from the saturable binding of BI 187004 compound to its high-affinity and low-capacity target 11β-HSD1. The non-intuitive dose, exposure, and response relationship for BI 187004 pose a significant challenge in rational dose selection. This study aimed to construct a TMDD model to explain the complex nonlinear PK behavior and underscore the importance of recognizing TMDD in this small-molecule compound. Among the various models explored, the best model was a two-compartment TMDD model with three transit absorption components. The final model provides insights into 11β-HSD1 binding-related parameters for BI 187004, including the total amount of 11β-HSD1 in the liver (estimated to be 8000 nmol), the second order association rate constant (estimated to be 0.102 nM-1h-1), and the first-order dissociation rate constant (estimated to be 0.11 h-1). Our final population PK model successfully characterized the intricate nonlinear PK of BI 187004 across a wide dose range. This modeling work serves as a valuable reference for the rational selection of the dose regimens for BI 187004's future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanzhen Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Guohua An
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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17
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Lelievre R, Rakesh M, Hysi PG, Little J, Freeman EE, Roy-Gagnon MH. Effect modification by sex of genetic associations of vitamin C related metabolites in the Canadian Longitudinal study on aging. Front Genet 2024; 15:1411931. [PMID: 39144724 PMCID: PMC11322087 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1411931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Vitamin C is an essential nutrient. Sex differences in serum vitamin C concentrations have been observed but are not fully known. Investigation of levels of metabolites may help shed light on how dietary and other environmental exposures interact with molecular processes. O-methylascorbate and ascorbic acid 2-sulfate are two metabolites in the vitamin C metabolic pathway. Past research has found genetic factors that influence the levels of these two metabolites. Therefore, we investigated possible effect modification by sex of genetic variant-metabolite associations and characterized the biological function of these interactions. Methods: We included individuals of European descent from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging with available genetic and metabolic data (n = 9004). We used linear mixed models to tests for genome-wide associations with O-methylascorbate and ascorbic acid 2-sulfate, with and without a sex interaction. We also investigated the biological function of the important genetic variant-sex interactions found for each metabolite. Results: Two genome-wide statistically significant (p value < 5 × 10-8) interaction effects and several suggestive (p value < 10-5) interaction effects were found. These suggestive interaction effects were mapped to several genes including HSD11B2, associated with sex hormones, and AGRP, associated with hunger drive. The genes mapped to O-methylascorbate were differently expressed in the testis tissues, and the genes mapped to ascorbic acid 2-sulfate were differently expressed in stomach tissues. Discussion: By understanding the genetic factors that impact metabolites associated with vitamin C, we can better understand its function in disease risk and the mechanisms behind sex differences in vitamin C concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lelievre
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mohan Rakesh
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Pirro G. Hysi
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julian Little
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ellen E. Freeman
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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18
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Ha K, Mundt-Machado N, Bisignano P, Pinedo A, Raleigh DR, Loeb G, Reiter JF, Cao E, Delling M. Cilia-enriched oxysterol 7β,27-DHC is required for polycystin ion channel activation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6468. [PMID: 39085216 PMCID: PMC11291729 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50318-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystin-1 (PC-1) and PC-2 form a heteromeric ion channel complex that is abundantly expressed in primary cilia of renal epithelial cells. This complex functions as a non-selective cation channel, and mutations within the polycystin complex cause autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The spatial and temporal regulation of the polycystin complex within the ciliary membrane remains poorly understood. Using both whole-cell and ciliary patch-clamp recordings, we identify a cilia-enriched oxysterol, 7β,27-dihydroxycholesterol (DHC), that serves as a necessary activator of the polycystin complex. We further identify an oxysterol-binding pocket within PC-2 and showed that mutations within this binding pocket disrupt 7β,27-DHC-dependent polycystin activation. Pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of oxysterol synthesis reduces channel activity in primary cilia. In summary, our findings reveal a regulator of the polycystin complex. This oxysterol-binding pocket in PC-2 may provide a specific target for potential ADPKD therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodaji Ha
- Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nadine Mundt-Machado
- Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paola Bisignano
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Aide Pinedo
- Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David R Raleigh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gabriel Loeb
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jeremy F Reiter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erhu Cao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Markus Delling
- Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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19
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Lai W, Huang S, Liu J, Zhou B, Yu Z, Brown J, Hong G. Toll-like receptor 4-dependent innate immune responses are mediated by intracrine corticosteroids and activation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β in astrocytes. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23781. [PMID: 38941212 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301923rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Reactive astrocytes are important pathophysiologically and synthesize neurosteroids. We observed that LPS increased immunoreactive TLR4 and key steroidogenic enzymes in cortical astrocytes of rats and investigated whether corticosteroids are produced and mediate astrocytic TLR4-dependent innate immune responses. We found that LPS increased steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and StAR-dependent aldosterone production in purified astrocytes. Both increases were blocked by the TLR4 antagonist TAK242. LPS also increased 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) and corticosterone production, and both were prevented by TAK242 and by siRNAs against 11β-HSD1, StAR, or aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2). Knockdown of 11β-HSD1, StAR, or CYP11B2 or blocking either mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) or glucocorticoid receptors (GR) prevented dephosphorylation of p-Ser9GSK-3β, activation of NF-κB, and the GSK-3β-dependent increases of C3, IL-1β, and TNF-α caused by LPS. Exogenous aldosterone mimicked the MR- and GSK-3β-dependent pro-inflammatory effects of LPS in astrocytes, but corticosterone did not. Supernatants from astrocytes treated with LPS reduced MAP2 and viability of cultured neurons except when astrocytic StAR or MR was inhibited. In adrenalectomized rats, intracerebroventricular injection of LPS increased astrocytic TLR4, StAR, CYP11B2, and 11β-HSD1, NF-κB, C3 and IL-1β, decreased astrocytic p-Ser9GSK-3β in the cortex and was neurotoxic, except when spironolactone was co-injected, consistent with the in vitro results. LPS also activated NF-κB in some NeuN+ and CD11b+ cells in the cortex, and these effects were prevented by spironolactone. We conclude that intracrine aldosterone may be involved in the TLR4-dependent innate immune responses of astrocytes and can trigger paracrine effects by activating astrocytic MR/GSK-3β/NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfang Lai
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Siying Huang
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Binbin Zhou
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhengshuang Yu
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - John Brown
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guizhu Hong
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
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20
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Lockett J, Inder WJ, Clifton VL. The Glucocorticoid Receptor: Isoforms, Functions, and Contribution to Glucocorticoid Sensitivity. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:593-624. [PMID: 38551091 PMCID: PMC11244253 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids exert pleiotropic effects on all tissues to regulate cellular and metabolic homeostasis. Synthetic forms are used therapeutically in a wide range of conditions for their anti-inflammatory benefits, at the cost of dose and duration-dependent side effects. Significant variability occurs between tissues, disease states, and individuals with regard to both the beneficial and deleterious effects. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is the site of action for these hormones and a vast body of work has been conducted understanding its function. Traditionally, it was thought that the anti-inflammatory benefits of glucocorticoids were mediated by transrepression of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, while the adverse metabolic effects resulted from direct transactivation. This canonical understanding of the GR function has been brought into question over the past 2 decades with advances in the resolution of scientific techniques, and the discovery of multiple isoforms of the receptor present in most tissues. Here we review the structure and function of the GR, the nature of the receptor isoforms, and the contribution of the receptor to glucocorticoid sensitivity, or resistance in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Lockett
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4101, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Warrick J Inder
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4101, Australia
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21
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Deng F, Lei J, Qiu J, Zhao C, Wang X, Li M, Sun M, Zhang M, Gao Q. DNA methylation landscape in pregnancy-induced hypertension: progress and challenges. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:77. [PMID: 38978060 PMCID: PMC11229300 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01248-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Gestational hypertension (PIH), especially pre-eclampsia (PE), is a common complication of pregnancy. This condition poses significant risks to the health of both the mother and the fetus. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation, may play a role in initiating the earliest pathophysiology of PIH. This article describes the relationship between DNA methylation and placental trophoblast function, genes associated with the placental microenvironment, the placental vascular system, and maternal blood and vascular function, abnormalities of umbilical cord blood and vascular function in the onset and progression of PIH, as well as changes in DNA methylation in the progeny of PIH, in terms of maternal, fetal, and offspring. We also explore the latest research on DNA methylation-based early detection, diagnosis and potential therapeutic strategies for PIH. This will enable the field of DNA methylation research to continue to enhance our understanding of the epigenetic regulation of PIH genes and identify potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengying Deng
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Jiahui Lei
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Junlan Qiu
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215153, P.R. China
| | - Chenxuan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Xietong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Min Li
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Miao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China.
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
| | - Meihua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Qinqin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Maternal & Fetal Medicine of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, China.
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
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22
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Mahida RY, Yuan Z, Kolluri KK, Scott A, Parekh D, Hardy RS, Matthay MA, Perkins GD, Janes SM, Thickett DR. 11β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 transgenic mesenchymal stem cells attenuate inflammation in models of sepsis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1422761. [PMID: 39036559 PMCID: PMC11257926 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1422761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) administration reduces inflammation in pre-clinical models of sepsis and sepsis-related lung injury, however clinical efficacy in patients has not yet been demonstrated. We previously showed that Alveolar Macrophage (AM) 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1 (HSD-1) autocrine signalling is impaired in critically ill sepsis patients, which promotes inflammatory injury. Administration of transgenic MSCs (tMSCs) which overexpress HSD-1 may enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of local glucocorticoids and be more effective at reducing inflammation in sepsis than cellular therapy alone. Methods MSCs were transfected using a recombinant lentiviral vector containing the HSD-1 and GPF transgenes under the control of a tetracycline promoter. Thin layer chromatography assessed HSD-1 reductase activity in tMSCs. Mesenchymal stem cell phenotype was assessed by flow cytometry and bi-lineage differentiation. HSD-1 tMSCs were co-cultured with LPS-stimulated monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) from healthy volunteers prior to assessment of pro-inflammatory cytokine release. HSD-1 tMSCs were administered intravenously to mice undergoing caecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Results MSCs were transfected with an efficiency of 91.1%, and maintained an MSC phenotype. Functional HSD-1 activity was demonstrated in tMSCs, with predominant reductase cortisol activation (peak 8.23 pM/hour/100,000 cells). HSD-1 tMSC co-culture with LPS-stimulated MDMs suppressed TNFα and IL-6 release. Administration of transgene activated HSD-1 tMSCs in a murine model of CLP attenuated neutrophilic inflammation more effectively than transgene inactive tMSCs (medians 0.403 v 1.36 × 106/ml, p = 0.033). Conclusion The synergistic impact of HSD-1 transgene expression and MSC therapy attenuated neutrophilic inflammation in a mouse model of peritoneal sepsis more effectively than MSC therapy alone. Future studies investigating the anti-inflammatory capacity of HSD-1 tMSCs in models of sepsis-related direct lung injury and inflammatory diseases are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Y. Mahida
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Zhengqiang Yuan
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Krishna K. Kolluri
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Scott
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dhruv Parekh
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rowan S. Hardy
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A. Matthay
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine and Department of Anaesthesia, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Gavin D. Perkins
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Sam M. Janes
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David R. Thickett
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Shaikh S, Lee EJ, Ahmad K, Choi I. Therapeutic potential and action mechanisms of licochalcone B: a mini review. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1440132. [PMID: 39021879 PMCID: PMC11251949 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1440132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Licochalcone B (LicB), a chalcone derived from Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Glycyrrhiza glabra, has received considerable attention due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Accumulated data indicates that LicB has pharmacological effects that include anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. The action mechanism of LicB has been linked to several molecular targets, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin, p53, nuclear factor-κB, and p38, and the involvements of caspases, apoptosis, mitogen-activated protein kinase-associated inflammatory pathways, and anti-inflammatory nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathways highlight the multifaceted therapeutic potential of LicB. This review systematically updates recent findings regarding the pharmacological effects of LicB, and the mechanistic pathways involved, and highlights the potential use of LicB as a promising lead compound for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibhghatulla Shaikh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ju Lee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Khurshid Ahmad
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Inho Choi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
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Joëls M, Karst H, Tasker JG. The emerging role of rapid corticosteroid actions on excitatory and inhibitory synaptic signaling in the brain. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 74:101146. [PMID: 39004314 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, there has been increasing evidence for the importance of rapid-onset actions of corticosteroid hormones in the brain. Here, we highlight the distinct rapid corticosteroid actions that regulate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, basolateral amygdala, and prefrontal cortex. The receptors that mediate rapid corticosteroid actions are located at or close to the plasma membrane, though many of the receptor characteristics remain unresolved. Rapid-onset corticosteroid effects play a role in fast neuroendocrine feedback as well as in higher brain functions, including increased aggression and anxiety, and impaired memory retrieval. The rapid non-genomic corticosteroid actions precede and complement slow-onset, long-lasting transcriptional actions of the steroids. Both rapid and slow corticosteroid actions appear to be indispensable to adapt to a continuously changing environment, and their imbalance can increase an individual's susceptibility to psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Joëls
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands; University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, the Netherlands.
| | - Henk Karst
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, the Netherlands; SILS-CNS. University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeffrey G Tasker
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, New Orleans, USA.
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Hao T, Zhao X, Ji Z, Xia M, Lu H, Sang J, Wang S, Li L, Ge RS, Zhu Q. UV-filter benzophenones suppress human, pig, rat, and mouse 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1: Structure-activity relationship and in silico docking analysis. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 281:109900. [PMID: 38518984 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Benzophenone chemicals (BPs) have been developed to prevent the adverse effects of UV radiation and they are widely contaminated. 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1) catalyze the conversion of inactive glucocorticoid to active glucocorticoid, playing critical role in many physiological function. However, the direct effect of BPs on human, pig, rat, and mouse 11β-HSD1 remains unclear. In this study, we screened the inhibitory strength of 12 BPs on 4 species, and performed the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and in silico docking analysis. The inhibitory potency of BPs was: for human 11β-HSD1, BP6 (IC50 = 18.76 μM) > BP8 (40.84 μM) > BP (88.89 μM) > other BPs; for pig 11β-HSD1, BP8 (45.57 μM) > BP6 (59.44 μM) > BP2 (65.12 μM) > BP (135.56 μM) > other BPs; for rat 11β-HSD1, BP7 (67.17 μM) > BP (68.83 μM) > BP8 (133.04 μM) > other BPs; and for mouse 11β-HSD1, BP8 (41.41 μM) > BP (50.61 μM) > other BPs. These BP chemicals were mixed/competitive inhibitors of these 11β-HSD1 enzymes. The 2,2'-dihydroxy substitutions in two benzene rings play a key role in enhancing the effectiveness of inhibiting 11β-HSD1, possibly via increasing hydrogen bond interactions. Docking analysis shows that these BPs bind to NADPH/glucocorticoid binding sites and forms hydrogen bonds with catalytic residues Ser and/or Tyr. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that BP chemicals can inhibit 11β-HSD1 from 4 species, and there are subtle species-dependent difference in the inhibitory strength and structural variations of BPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhongyao Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Miaomiao Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Han Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Jianmin Sang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Shaowei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Linxi Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Male Reproductive Medicine of Wenzhou, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Qi D, Wang W, Chu L, Wu Y, Wang W, Zhu M, Yuan L, Gao W, Deng H. Associations of schizophrenia with the activities of the HPA and HPG axes and their interactions characterized by hair-based biomarkers. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 165:107049. [PMID: 38657340 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past studies on schizophrenia (SCZ) and the stress-sensitive neuroendocrine systems have mostly focused on a single system and traditionally utilized acute biomarkers (e.g., biomarkers from blood, urine and saliva) that poorly match the chronic course of schizophrenia in time span. Using eight biomarkers in hair, this study aimed to explore the functional characteristics of SCZ patients in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes and the interaction between the two axes. METHODS Hair samples were taken from 137 SCZ patients and 73 controls. The SCZ patients were diagnosed by their attending physician according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV and were clinically stable after treatment. Gender, age, BMI, frequency of hair washing, marital status, education level, family history of mental illness and clozapine dosage were concurrently collected as covariates. The 10-item perceived stress scale (PSS-10) and the social readjustment rating scale were used to assess chronic stress status in SCZ patients. Eight hair biomarkers, cortisol, cortisone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone, progesterone, cortisol/cortisone, cortisol/DHEA and cortisol/testosterone, were measured by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer. Among them, cortisol, cortisone, DHEA and cortisol/DHEA reflected the functional activity of the HPA axis, and testosterone and progesterone reflected the functional activity of the HPG axis, and cortisol/cortisone reflected the activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase types 2 (11β-HSD 2), and cortisol/testosterone reflected the HPA-HPG interaction. RESULTS SCZ patients showed significantly higher cortisone and cortisol/testosterone than controls (p<0.001, η²p=0.180 and p=0.015, η²p=0.031), lower testosterone (p=0.009, η²p=0.034), progesterone (p<0.001, η²p=0.069) and cortisol/cortisone (p=0.001, η²p=0.054). There were significant intergroup differences in male and female progesterone (p=0.003, η²p=0.088 and p=0.030, η²p=0.049) and female testosterone (p=0.028, η²p=0.051). In SCZ patients, cortisol, cortisol/cortisone, cortisol/DHEA and cortisol/testosterone were positively associated with PSS-10 score (ps<0.05, 0.212 CONCLUSION The function of the HPA and HPG axes, the activity of 11β-HSD 2 and the HPA-HPG interaction were abnormal in SCZ patients. The abnormality of neuroendocrine systems was associated with chronic stress status in SCZ patients. This study provided evidence for abnormalities in the neuroendocrine systems in SCZ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyi Qi
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Weiliang Wang
- School of Nursing, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 163319, China.
| | - Liuxi Chu
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Minhui Zhu
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; School of Psychology, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Huihua Deng
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing 211189, China; Institute of Child Development and Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
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Zheng B, Zheng Y, Hu W, Chen Z. Dissecting the networks underlying diverse brain disorders after prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1975-1990. [PMID: 38581585 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03733-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
New human life begins in the uterus in a period of both extreme plasticity and sensitivity to environmental disturbances. The fetal stage is also a vital period for central nervous system development, with experiences at this point profoundly and permanently shaping brain structure and function. As such, some brain disorders may originate in utero. Glucocorticoids, a class of essential stress hormones, play indispensable roles in fetal development, but overexposure may have lasting impacts on the brain. In this review, we summarize data from recent clinical and non-clinical studies regarding alterations in fetal brains due to prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure that are associated with nervous system disorders. We discuss relevant changes to brain structure and cellular functions and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. In addition, we summarize factors that may cause differential outcomes between varying brain regions, and outline clinically feasible intervention strategies that are expected to minimize negative consequences arising from fetal glucocorticoid overexposure. Finally, we highlight the need for experimental evidence aided by new technologies to clearly determine the effects of excessive prenatal glucocorticoid exposure. This review consolidates diverse findings to help researchers better understand the relationship between the prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure and the effects it has on various fetal brain regions, promoting further development of critical intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baixiu Zheng
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanrong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Zhong Chen
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Ngema M, Xulu ND, Ngubane PS, Khathi A. A Review of Fetal Development in Pregnancies with Maternal Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)-Associated Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Dysregulation: Possible Links to Pregestational Prediabetes. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1372. [PMID: 38927579 PMCID: PMC11201628 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Research has identified fetal risk factors for adult diseases, forming the basis for the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis. DOHaD suggests that maternal insults during pregnancy cause structural and functional changes in fetal organs, increasing the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in adulthood. It is proposed that altered maternal physiology, such as increased glucocorticoid (GC) levels associated with a dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in maternal stress and T2DM during pregnancy, exposes the fetus to excess GC. Prenatal glucocorticoid exposure reduces fetal growth and programs the fetal HPA axis, permanently altering its activity into adulthood. This programmed HPA axis is linked to increased risks of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental disorders in adulthood. With the global rise in T2DM, particularly among young adults of reproductive age, it is crucial to prevent its onset. T2DM is often preceded by a prediabetic state, a condition that does not show any symptoms, causing many to unknowingly progress to T2DM. Studying prediabetes is essential, as it is a reversible stage that may help prevent T2DM-related pregnancy complications. The existing literature focuses on HPA axis dysregulation in T2DM pregnancies and its link to fetal programming. However, the effects of prediabetes on HPA axis function, specifically glucocorticoid in pregnancy and fetal outcomes, are not well understood. This review consolidates research on T2DM during pregnancy, its impact on fetal programming via the HPA axis, and possible links with pregestational prediabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andile Khathi
- School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4001, South Africa; (M.N.); (N.D.X.); (P.S.N.)
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Bäcklund N, Lundstedt S, Tornevi A, Wihlbäck AC, Olsson T, Dahlqvist P, Brattsand G. Salivary Cortisol and Cortisone Can Circumvent Confounding Effects of Oral Contraceptives in the Short Synacthen Test. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1899-1906. [PMID: 38173358 PMCID: PMC11180507 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is usually diagnosed by low plasma cortisol levels following a short Synacthen test (SST). Most plasma cortisol is bound to corticosteroid-binding globulin, which is increased by estrogen in combined estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives (COCs). Women with AI using COCs are therefore at risk of having an apparently normal plasma cortisol level during SST, which would not adequately reflect AI. OBJECTIVE This work aimed to test whether salivary cortisol or cortisone during SST is more robust against the COC effect and to calculate the lower reference limits (LRLs) for these to be used as tentative diagnostic cutoffs to exclude AI. METHODS Forty-one healthy women on COCs and 46 healthy women without exogenous estrogens underwent an SST with collection of plasma and salivary samples at 0, 30, and 60 minutes after Synacthen injection. The groups were compared using regression analysis with age as covariate and the LRLs were calculated parametrically. RESULTS SST-stimulated plasma cortisol levels were significantly higher in the COC group vs controls, while mean salivary cortisol and cortisone levels were slightly lower in the COC group. Importantly, COC use did not significantly alter LRLs for salivary cortisol or cortisone. The smallest LRL difference between groups was seen for salivary cortisone. CONCLUSION Salivary cortisol and especially salivary cortisone are considerably less affected by COC use than plasma cortisol during SST. Due to similar LRLs, a common cutoff for salivary cortisol and cortisone during SST can be used to exclude AI in premenopausal women irrespective of COC use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Bäcklund
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Staffan Lundstedt
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Andreas Tornevi
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Wihlbäck
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tommy Olsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Göran Brattsand
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
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Li C, Li M, Sheng W, Zhou W, Zhang Z, Ji G, Zhang L. High dietary Fructose Drives Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease via Activating ubiquitin-specific peptidase 2/11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 Pathway in Mice. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:3480-3496. [PMID: 38993560 PMCID: PMC11234208 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.97309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver-related morbidity and mortality. Though high fructose intake is acknowledged as a metabolic hazard, its role in the etiology of MASLD requires further clarification. Here, we demonstrated that high dietary fructose drives MASLD development and promotes MASLD progression in mice, and identified Usp2 as a fructose-responsive gene in the liver. Elevated USP2 levels were detected in the hepatocytes of MASLD mice; a similar increase was observed following fructose exposure in primary hepatocytes and mouse AML12 cells. Notably, hepatocytes overexpressing USP2 presented with exaggerated lipid accumulation and metabolic inflammation when exposed to fructose. Conversely, USP2 knockdown mitigated these fructose-induced changes. Furthermore, USP2 was found to activate the C/EBPα/11β-HSD1 signaling, which further impacted the equilibrium of cortisol and cortisone in the circulation of mice. Collectively, our findings revealed the role of dietary fructose in MASLD pathogenesis and identified the USP2-mediated C/EBPα/ 11β-HSD1 signaling as a potential target for the management of MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meng Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Sheng
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Ziqi Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese Medicine, China
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Yu R, Jusko WJ. Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling: The Reversible Metabolism and Tissue-Specific Partitioning of Methylprednisolone and Methylprednisone in Rats. Drug Metab Dispos 2024; 52:662-672. [PMID: 38653502 PMCID: PMC11185821 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.124.001711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The pharmacokinetics (PK) of methylprednisolone (MPL) exhibited tissue-specific saturable binding and reversible conversion with its metabolite, methylprednisone (MPN). Blood and 11 tissues were collected in male rats after intravenous (i.v.) bolus doses of 50 mg/kg MPL and 20 mg/kg MPN and upon i.v. infusion of MPL and MPN at 0.3, 3, and 10 mg/h per kg. The concentrations of MPL and MPN were simultaneously measured. A comprehensive physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was applied to describe the plasma and tissue profiles and estimate PK parameters of the MPL/MPN interconversion system. Both dosed and formed MPL and MPN were in rapid equilibrium or achieved steady-state rapidly in plasma and tissues. MPL tissue partitioning was nonlinear, with highest capacity in liver (322.9 ng/ml) followed by kidney, heart, intestine, skin, spleen, bone, brain, muscle, and lowest in adipose (2.74 ng/ml) and displaying high penetration in lung. The tissue partition coefficient of MPN was linear but widely variable (0.15∼5.38) across most tissues, with nonlinear binding in liver and kidney. The conversion of MPL to MPN occurred in kidney, lung, and intestine with total clearance of 429 ml/h, and the back conversion occurred in liver and kidney at 1342 ml/h. The irreversible elimination clearance of MPL was 789 ml/h from liver and that of MPN was 2758 ml/h with liver accounting for 44%, lung 35%, and kidney 21%. The reversible metabolism elevated MPL exposure in rats by 13%. This highly complex PBPK model provided unique and comprehensive insights into the disposition of a major corticosteroid. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Our dual physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) study and model of methylprednisolone/methylprednisone (MPL/MPN) with multiple complexities reasonably characterized and parameterized their disposition, and provided greater insights into the interpretation of their pharmacodynamics in rats. Drug knowledge gained in this study may be translatable to higher-order species to appreciate the clinical utility of MPL. The complex model itself is instructive for advanced PBPK analysis of drugs with reversible metabolism and/or nonlinear tissue partitioning features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihong Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - William J Jusko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
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Deng F, Lei J, Chen J, Zhao M, Zhao C, Fu M, Sun M, Zhang M, Qiu J, Gao Q. DNA methylation-mediated 11βHSD2 downregulation drives the increases in angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II within preeclamptic placentas. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23714. [PMID: 38814727 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400199r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex human-specific complication frequently associated with placental pathology. The local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the human placenta, which plays a crucial role in regulating placental function, has been extensively documented. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are a class of steroid hormones. PE cases often have abnormalities in GCs levels and placental GCs barrier. Despite extensive speculation, there is currently no robust evidence indicating that GCs regulate placental RAS. This study aims to investigate these potential relationships. Plasma and placental samples were collected from both normal and PE pregnancies. The levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II (Ang II), cortisol, and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (11βHSD) were analyzed. In PE placentas, cortisol, ACE, and Ang II levels were elevated, while 11βHSD2 expression was reduced. Interestingly, a positive correlation was observed between ACE and cortisol levels in the placenta. A significant inverse correlation was found between the methylation statuses within the 11βHSD2 gene promoter and its expression, meanwhile, 11βHSD2 expression was negatively correlated with cortisol and ACE levels. In vitro experiments using placental trophoblast cells confirmed that active GCs can stimulate ACE transcription and expression through the GR pathway. Furthermore, 11βHSD2 knockdown could enhance this activating effect. An in vivo study using a rat model of intrauterine GCs overexposure during mid-to-late gestation suggested that excess GCs in utero lead to increased ACE and Ang II levels in the placenta. Collectively, this study provides the first evidence of the relationships between 11βHSD2 expression, GCs barrier, ACE, and Ang II levels in the placenta. It not only contributes to understanding the pathological features of the placental GCs barrier and RAS under PE conditions, also provides important information for revealing the pathological mechanism of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengying Deng
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui Lei
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Third People's Hospital of Bengbu Affiliated to Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Chenxuan Zhao
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Mengyu Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Meihua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Junlan Qiu
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Qinqin Gao
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Schill RL, Visser J, Ashby ML, Li Z, Lewis KT, Morales-Hernandez A, Hoose KS, Maung JN, Uranga RM, Hariri H, Hermsmeyer IDK, Mori H, MacDougald OA. Deficiency of glucocorticoid receptor in bone marrow adipocytes has mild effects on bone and hematopoiesis but does not influence expansion of marrow adiposity with caloric restriction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1397081. [PMID: 38887268 PMCID: PMC11180776 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1397081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Unlike white adipose tissue depots, bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) expands during caloric restriction (CR). Although mechanisms for BMAT expansion remain unclear, prior research suggested an intermediary role for increased circulating glucocorticoids. Methods In this study, we utilized a recently described mouse model (BMAd-Cre) to exclusively target bone marrow adipocytes (BMAds) for elimination of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) (i.e. Nr3c1) whilst maintaining GR expression in other adipose depots. Results Mice lacking GR in BMAds (BMAd-Nr3c1 -/-) and control mice (BMAd-Nr3c1 +/+) were fed ad libitum or placed on a 30% CR diet for six weeks. On a normal chow diet, tibiae of female BMAd-Nr3c1-/- mice had slightly elevated proximal trabecular metaphyseal bone volume fraction and thickness. Both control and BMAd-Nr3c1-/- mice had increased circulating glucocorticoids and elevated numbers of BMAds in the proximal tibia following CR. However, no significant differences in trabecular and cortical bone were observed, and quantification with osmium tetroxide and μCT revealed no difference in BMAT accumulation between control or BMAd-Nr3c1 -/- mice. Differences in BMAd size were not observed between BMAd-Nr3c1-/- and control mice. Interestingly, BMAd-Nr3c1-/- mice had decreased circulating white blood cell counts 4 h into the light cycle. Discussion In conclusion, our data suggest that eliminating GR from BMAd has minor effects on bone and hematopoiesis, and does not impair BMAT accumulation during CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Schill
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jack Visser
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Mariah L. Ashby
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ziru Li
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kenneth T. Lewis
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Antonio Morales-Hernandez
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Keegan S. Hoose
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jessica N. Maung
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Romina M. Uranga
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hadla Hariri
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Isabel D. K. Hermsmeyer
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hiroyuki Mori
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ormond A. MacDougald
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Lebel A, Ben Shalom E, Mokatern R, Halevy R, Zehavi Y, Magen D. Apparent mineralocorticoid excess in Israel: a case series and literature review. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 190:347-353. [PMID: 38652803 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvae049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Apparent mineralocorticoid excess (AME) syndrome is an ultra-rare autosomal-recessive tubulopathy, caused by mutations in HSD11B2, leading to excessive activation of the kidney mineralocorticoid receptor, and characterized by early-onset low-renin hypertension, hypokalemia, and risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). To date, most reports included few patients, and none described patients from Israel. We aimed to describe AME patients from Israel and to review the relevant literature. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Clinical, laboratory, and molecular data from patients' records were collected. RESULTS Five patients presented at early childhood with normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), while 2 patients presented during late childhood with CKD. Molecular analysis revealed 2 novel homozygous mutations in HSD11B2. All patients presented with severe hypertension and hypokalemia. While all patients developed nephrocalcinosis, only 1 showed hypercalciuria. All individuals were managed with potassium supplements, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and various antihypertensive medications. One patient survived cardiac arrest secondary to severe hyperkalemia. At last follow-up, those 5 patients who presented early exhibited normal eGFR and near-normal blood pressure, but 2 have hypertension complications. The 2 patients who presented with CKD progressed to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) necessitating dialysis and kidney transplantation. CONCLUSIONS In this 11-year follow-up report of 2 Israeli families with AME, patients who presented early maintained long-term normal kidney function, while those who presented late progressed to ESKD. Nevertheless, despite early diagnosis and management, AME is commonly associated with serious complications of the disease or its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaf Lebel
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula 1834111, Israel
| | - Efrat Ben Shalom
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Rozan Mokatern
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula 1834111, Israel
| | - Raphael Halevy
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula 1834111, Israel
| | - Yoav Zehavi
- Pediatric Department B, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula 1834111, Israel
| | - Daniela Magen
- Technion Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel
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Wang H, Sang J, Ji Z, Yu Y, Wang S, Zhu Y, Li H, Wang Y, Ge RS. Halogenated bisphenol A derivatives potently inhibit human and rat 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1: Structure-activity relationship and molecular docking. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:2560-2571. [PMID: 38189224 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Chlorinated bisphenol A (BPA) derivatives are formed during chlorination process of drinking water, whereas bisphenol S (BPS) and brominated BPA and BPS (TBBPA and TBBPS) were synthesized for many industrial uses such as fire retardants. However, the effect of halogenated BPA and BPS derivatives on glucocorticoid metabolizing enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1) remains unclear. The inhibitory effects of 6 BPA derivatives in the inhibition of human and rat 11β-HSD1 were investigated. The potencies for inhibition on human 11β-HSD1 were TBBPA (IC50, 3.87 μM) = monochloro BPA (MCBPA, 4.08 μM) = trichloro BPA (TrCBPA, 4.41 μM) > tetrachloro BPA (TCBPA, 9.75 μM) > TBBPS (>100 μM) = BPS (>100 μM), and those for rat 11β-HSD1 were TrCBPA (IC50, 2.76 μM) = MCBPA (3.75 μM) > TBBPA (39.58 μM) > TCBPA = TBBPS = BPS. All these BPA derivatives are mixed/competitive inhibitors of both human and rat enzymes. Molecular docking studies predict that MCBPA, TrCBPA, TCBPA, and TBBPA all bind to the active site of human 11β-HSD1, forming hydrogen bonds with catalytic residue Ser170 except TCBPA. Regression of the lowest binding energy with IC50 values revealed a significant inverse linear regression. In conclusion, halogenated BPA derivatives are mostly potent inhibitors of human and rat 11β-HSD1, and there is structure-dependent inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianmin Sang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhongyao Ji
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shaowei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang Zhu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Cen YK, Zhang L, Jiang Y, Meng XF, Li Y, Xiang C, Xue YP, Zheng YG. Not exclusively the activity, but the sweet spot: a dehydrogenase point mutation synergistically boosts activity, substrate tolerance, thermal stability and yield. Org Biomol Chem 2024; 22:3009-3018. [PMID: 38529785 DOI: 10.1039/d4ob00211c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Catalytic activity is undoubtedly a key focus in enzyme engineering. The complicated reaction conditions hinder some enzymes from industrialization even though they have relatively promising activity. This has occurred to some dehydrogenases. Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSDHs) specifically catalyze the conversion between hydroxyl and keto groups, and hold immense potential in the synthesis of steroid medicines. We underscored the importance of 7α-HSDH activity, and analyzed the overall robustness and underlying mechanisms. Employing a high-throughput screening approach, we comprehensively assessed a mutation library, and obtained a mutant with enhanced enzymatic activity and overall stability/tolerance. The superior mutant (I201M) was identified to harbor improved thermal stability, substrate susceptibility, cofactor affinity, as well as the yield. This mutant displayed a 1.88-fold increase in enzymatic activity, a 1.37-fold improvement in substrate tolerance, and a 1.45-fold increase in thermal stability when compared with the wild type (WT) enzyme. The I201M mutant showed a 2.25-fold increase in the kcat/KM ratio (indicative of a stronger binding affinity for the cofactor). This mutant did not exhibit the highest enzyme activity compared with all the tested mutants, but these improved characteristics contributed synergistically to the highest yield. When a substrate at 100 mM was present, the 24 h yield by I201M reached 89.7%, significantly higher than the 61.2% yield elicited by the WT enzyme. This is the first report revealing enhancement of the catalytic efficiency, cofactor affinity, substrate tolerance, and thermal stability of NAD(H)-dependent 7α-HSDH through a single-point mutation. The mutated enzyme reached the highest enzymatic activity of 7α-HSDH ever reported. High enzymatic activity is undoubtedly crucial for enabling the industrialization of an enzyme. Our findings demonstrated that, when compared with other mutants boasting even higher enzymatic activity, mutants with excellent overall robustness were superior for industrial applications. This principle was exemplified by highly active enzymes such as 7α-HSDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ke Cen
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Xiang-Fu Meng
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Chao Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Ping Xue
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Guo Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bioconversion and Biopurification of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
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Hall L, Hart R. Role of corticosteroids in skin physiology and therapeutic potential of an 11β-HSD1 inhibitor: A review. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:443-454. [PMID: 38146184 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Skin is a major site of cortisol bioconversion by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) enzymes which catalyze intracellular inactive cortisone into physiologically active cortisol. 11β-HSD1 is highly expressed in skin, especially in dermal fibroblasts, epidermal keratinocytes, melanocytes, and hair follicles, and plays important roles in regulating keratinocytes, fibroblast proliferation, and has roles in skin aging. Inhibition of 11β-HSD1 may reverse decreased collagen levels observed in extrinsically and intrinsically aged skin. Inhibitors of 11β-HSD1 may also have the potential to reverse decreased collagen observed in skin atrophy induced by glucocorticoid treatment. This systematic review aimed to summarize the current knowledge of roles for 11β-HSD1 inhibitor in skin physiology and potential for future use in medications. Studies have demonstrated that immediately following experimental insult in an animal model, there is increased expression of 11β-HSD1, and that topical application of an 11β-HSD1 inhibitor increases the rate of healing, increases skin collagen content, increases dermal fibroblasts, and increases dermal thickness. Furthermore, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 11β-HSD1 inhibitors reduce wound diameter after injury. Further development of 11β-HSD1 inhibitors appears to be a promising area for treating aging skin, aiding wound healing, and mitigating effects of systemic glucocorticoid use. Both topically and orally administered 11β-HSD1 inhibitors appear to be viable avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Hall
- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, Business and Law, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Hart
- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, Business and Law, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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38
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Zhao R, Hong L, Shi G, Ye H, Lou X, Zhou X, Yao J, Shi X, An J, Sun M. Mineralocorticoid promotes intestinal inflammation through receptor dependent IL17 production in ILC3s. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 130:111678. [PMID: 38368773 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111678] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Aldosterone is a key mineralocorticoid involved in regulating the concentration of blood electrolytes and physiological volume balance. Activation of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) has been recently reported to participate in adaptive and innate immune responses under inflammation. Here, we evaluated the role of aldosterone and MR in inflammation bowel diseases (IBD). Aldosterone elevated in the colon of DSS-induced colitis mice. Aldosterone addition induced IL17 production and ROS/RNS level in group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) and exacerbated intestinal injury. A selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism, eplerenone, inhibited IL17-producing ILC3s and its ROS/RNS production, protected mice from DSS-induced colitis. Mice lacking Nr3c2 (MR coding gene) in ILC3s exhibited decreased IL17 and ROS/RNS production, which alleviated colitis and colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). Further experiments revealed that MR could directly bind to IL17A promoter and facilitate its transcription, which could be enhanced by aldosterone. Thus, our findings demonstrated the critical role of aldosterone-MR-IL17 signaling in ILC3s and gut homeostasis, indicating the therapeutic strategy of eplerenone in IBD clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongchuan Zhao
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230006, China; Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Lei Hong
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230006, China; Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China; Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University. Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital. No. 1 Lijiang Road, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Guohua Shi
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Hong Ye
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Xinqi Lou
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University. Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital. No. 1 Lijiang Road, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Xinying Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230006, China; Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Jinyu Yao
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230006, China; Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Xiaohua Shi
- Digestive Department, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital, No. 1 Lijiang Road, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Jianzhong An
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University. Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital. No. 1 Lijiang Road, Suzhou 215153, China.
| | - Minxuan Sun
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230006, China; Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215163, China.
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Lomniczi A, Luna SL, Cervera-Juanes R, Appleman ML, Kohama SG, Urbanski HF. Age-related increase in the expression of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 in the hippocampus of male rhesus macaques. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1328543. [PMID: 38560025 PMCID: PMC10978655 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1328543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The hippocampus is especially susceptible to age-associated neuronal pathologies, and there is concern that the age-associated rise in cortisol secretion from the adrenal gland may contribute to their etiology. Furthermore, because 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1) catalyzes the reduction of cortisone to the active hormone cortisol, it is plausible that an increase in the expression of this enzyme enhances the deleterious impact of cortisol in the hippocampus and contributes to the neuronal pathologies that underlie cognitive decline in the elderly. Methods Rhesus macaques were used as a translational animal model of human aging, to examine age-related changes in gene and protein expressions of (HSD11B1/HSD11B1) in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that plays a crucial role in learning and memory. Results Older animals showed significantly (p < 0.01) higher base-line cortisol levels in the circulation. In addition, they showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher hippocampal expression of HSD11B1 but not NR3C1 and NR3C2 (i.e., two receptor-encoding genes through which cortisol exerts its physiological actions). A similar age-related significant (p < 0.05) increase in the expression of the HSD11B1 was revealed at the protein level by western blot analysis. Discussion The data suggest that an age-related increase in the expression of hippocampal HSD11B1 is likely to raise cortisol concentrations in this cognitive brain area, and thereby contribute to the etiology of neuropathologies that ultimately lead to neuronal loss and dementia. Targeting this enzyme pharmacologically may help to reduce the negative impact of elevated cortisol concentrations within glucocorticoid-sensitive brain areas and thereby afford neuronal protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Lomniczi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Selva L. Luna
- Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Rita Cervera-Juanes
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Maria-Luisa Appleman
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Steven G. Kohama
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Henryk F. Urbanski
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Sze Y, Brunton PJ. How is prenatal stress transmitted from the mother to the fetus? J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246073. [PMID: 38449331 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal stress programmes long-lasting neuroendocrine and behavioural changes in the offspring. Often this programming is maladaptive and sex specific. For example, using a rat model of maternal social stress in late pregnancy, we have demonstrated that adult prenatally stressed male, but not prenatally stressed female offspring display heightened anxiety-like behaviour, whereas both sexes show hyperactive hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responses to stress. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning dysregulated HPA axis responses, including evidence supporting a role for reduced neurosteroid-mediated GABAergic inhibitory signalling in the brains of prenatally stressed offspring. How maternal psychosocial stress is signalled from the mother to the fetuses is unclear. Direct transfer of maternal glucocorticoids to the fetuses is often considered to mediate the programming effects of maternal stress on the offspring. However, protective mechanisms including attenuated maternal stress responses and placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 (which inactivates glucocorticoids) should limit materno-fetal glucocorticoid transfer during pregnancy. Moreover, a lack of correlation between maternal stress, circulating maternal glucocorticoid levels and circulating fetal glucocorticoid levels is reported in several studies and across different species. Therefore, here we interrogate the evidence for a role for maternal glucocorticoids in mediating the effects of maternal stress on the offspring and consider the evidence for alternative mechanisms, including an indirect role for glucocorticoids and the contribution of changes in the placenta in signalling the stress status of the mother to the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sze
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Paula J Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Haining, Zhejiang 314400, P.R. China
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Eachus H, Ryu S. Glucocorticoid effects on the brain: from adaptive developmental plasticity to allostatic overload. J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246128. [PMID: 38449327 PMCID: PMC10949071 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to stress during early life may alter the developmental trajectory of an animal by a mechanism known as adaptive plasticity. For example, to enhance reproductive success in an adverse environment, it is known that animals accelerate their growth during development. However, these short-term fitness benefits are often associated with reduced longevity, a phenomenon known as the growth rate-lifespan trade-off. In humans, early life stress exposure compromises health later in life and increases disease susceptibility. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are major stress hormones implicated in these processes. This Review discusses the evidence for GC-mediated adaptive plasticity in development, leading to allostatic overload in later life. We focus on GC-induced effects on brain structure and function, including neurogenesis; highlight the need for longitudinal studies; and discuss approaches to identify molecular mechanisms mediating GC-induced alteration of the brain developmental trajectory leading to adult dysfunctions. Further understanding of how stress and GC exposure can alter developmental trajectories at the molecular and cellular level is of critical importance to reduce the burden of mental and physical ill health across the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Eachus
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Soojin Ryu
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
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Verplaetse TL, Hillmer AT, Bhatt S, Rusowicz A, Li S, Nabulsi N, Matuskey D, Huang Y, McKee SA, Cosgrove KP. Imaging a putative marker of brain cortisol regulation in alcohol use disorder. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 29:100609. [PMID: 38304303 PMCID: PMC10832501 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Stress is a potent activator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, initiating the release of glucocorticoid hormones, such as cortisol. Alcohol consumption can lead to HPA axis dysfunction, including altered cortisol levels. Until recently, research has only been able to examine peripheral cortisol associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in humans. We used positron emission tomography (PET) brain imaging with the radiotracer [18F]AS2471907 to measure 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1), a cortisol-regenerating enzyme, in people with AUD compared to healthy controls. Methods We imaged 9 individuals with moderate to severe AUD (5 men, 4 women; mean age = 38 years) and 12 healthy controls (8 men, 4 women; mean age = 29 years). Participants received 93.5 ± 15.6 MBq of the 11β-HSD1 inhibitor radiotracer [18F]AS2471907 as a bolus injection and were imaged for 150-180 min on the High-Resolution Research Tomograph. 11β-HSD1 availability was quantified by [18F]AS2471907 volume of distribution (VT; mL/cm3). A priori regions of interest included amygdala, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), hippocampus, ventromedial PFC (vmPFC) and caudate. Results Individuals with AUD consumed 52.4 drinks/week with 5.8 drinking days/week. Healthy controls consumed 2.8 drinks/week with 1.3 drinking days/week. Preliminary findings suggest that [18F]AS2471907 VT was higher in amygdala, ACC, hippocampus, vmPFC, and caudate of those with AUD compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). In AUD, vmPFC [18F]AS2471907 VT was associated with drinks per week (r = 0.81, p = 0.01) and quantity per drinking episode (r = 0.75, p = 0.02). Conclusions This is the first in vivo examination of 11β-HSD1 availability in individuals with AUD. Our data suggest higher brain availability of the cortisol-regenerating enzyme 11β-HSD1 in people with AUD (vs. controls), and that higher vmPFC 11β-HSD1 availability is related to greater alcohol consumption. Thus, in addition to the literature suggesting that people with AUD have elevated peripheral cortisol, our findings suggest there may also be heightened central HPA activity. These findings set the foundation for future hypotheses on mechanisms related to HPA axis function in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ansel T. Hillmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shivani Bhatt
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Songye Li
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nabeel Nabulsi
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David Matuskey
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yiyun Huang
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sherry A. McKee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kelly P. Cosgrove
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Bakhireva LN, Solomon E, Roberts MH, Ma X, Rai R, Wiesel A, Jacobson SW, Weinberg J, Milligan ED. Independent and Combined Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Prenatal Stress on Fetal HPA Axis Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2690. [PMID: 38473937 PMCID: PMC10932119 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and prenatal stress (PS) are highly prevalent conditions known to affect fetal programming of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The objectives of this study were to assess the effect of light PAE, PS, and PAE-PS interaction on fetal HPA axis activity assessed via placental and umbilical cord blood biomarkers. Participants of the ENRICH-2 cohort were recruited during the second trimester and classified into the PAE and unexposed control groups. PS was assessed by the Perceived Stress Scale. Placental tissue was collected promptly after delivery; gene and protein analysis for 11β-HSD1, 11β-HSD2, and pCRH were conducted by qPCR and ELISA, respectively. Umbilical cord blood was analyzed for cortisone and cortisol. Pearson correlation and multivariable linear regression examined the association of PAE and PS with HPA axis biomarkers. Mean alcohol consumption in the PAE group was ~2 drinks/week. Higher PS was observed in the PAE group (p < 0.01). In multivariable modeling, PS was associated with pCRH gene expression (β = 0.006, p < 0.01), while PAE was associated with 11β-HSD2 protein expression (β = 0.56, p < 0.01). A significant alcohol-by-stress interaction was observed with respect to 11β-HSD2 protein expression (p < 0.01). Results indicate that PAE and PS may independently and in combination affect fetal programming of the HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila N. Bakhireva
- College of Pharmacy Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (M.H.R.); (X.M.); (R.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Elizabeth Solomon
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (E.S.); (E.D.M.)
| | - Melissa H. Roberts
- College of Pharmacy Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (M.H.R.); (X.M.); (R.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Xingya Ma
- College of Pharmacy Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (M.H.R.); (X.M.); (R.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Rajani Rai
- College of Pharmacy Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (M.H.R.); (X.M.); (R.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Alexandria Wiesel
- College of Pharmacy Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (M.H.R.); (X.M.); (R.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Sandra W. Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
| | - Joanne Weinberg
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada;
| | - Erin D. Milligan
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (E.S.); (E.D.M.)
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Liu J, Yang T, Li Y, Li S, Li Y, Xu S, Xia W. Associations of maternal exposure to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid during early pregnancy with steroid hormones among one-month-old infants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169414. [PMID: 38114038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), a widely used hormonal herbicide, may disrupt steroid hormone homeostasis. However, evidence from population-based studies is limited, especially for one-month-old infants whose steroid hormones are in a state of adjustment to extrauterine life and can be important indicators of endocrine development. This study aimed to explore the associations between maternal 2,4-D exposure during early pregnancy and infant steroid hormone levels. METHODS The 885 mother-infant pairs were from a birth cohort in Wuhan, China. Maternal exposure to 2,4-D was determined in urine samples from early pregnancy, and nine steroid hormones were determined in infant urine. The associations of maternal 2,4-D exposure with infant steroid hormones and their product-to-precursor ratios were estimated based on generalized linear models, and bioinformatic analysis was conducted with public databases to explore the potential mechanisms involved. RESULTS The detection frequency of 2,4-D was 99.32 %, and the detection frequency of steroid hormones ranged from 98.42 % to 100.00 %. After adjusting for covariates, an interquartile range increase in 2,4-D concentrations was associated with a 7.84 % decrease in 11-deoxycortisol (95 % confidence interval, CI: -14.12 %, -1.10 %), an 8.09 % decrease in corticosterone (95 % CI: -14.56 %, -1.14 %), an 8.67 % decrease in cortisol (95 % CI: -14.43 %, -2.52 %), a 13.00 % decrease in cortisone (95 % CI: -20.64 %, -4.62 %), and an 11.17 % decrease in aldosterone (95 % CI: -19.62 %, -1.83 %). Maternal 2,4-D was also associated with lower infant cortisol/17α-OH-progesterone, cortisol/pregnenolone, and aldosterone/pregnenolone ratios. In bioinformatic analysis, pathways/biological processes related to steroid hormone synthesis and secretion were enriched from target genes of 2,4-D exposure. CONCLUSIONS Maternal urinary 2,4-D during early pregnancy was associated with lower infant urinary 11-deoxycortisol, corticosterone, cortisol, cortisone, and aldosterone, reflecting that 2,4-D exposure may interfere with infant steroid hormone homeostasis. Further efforts are still needed to study the relevant health effects of exposure to 2,4-D, particularly for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangtao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tingting Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shulan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Murck H, Karailiev P, Karailievova L, Puhova A, Jezova D. Treatment with Glycyrrhiza glabra Extract Induces Anxiolytic Effects Associated with Reduced Salt Preference and Changes in Barrier Protein Gene Expression. Nutrients 2024; 16:515. [PMID: 38398838 PMCID: PMC10893552 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
We have previously identified that low responsiveness to antidepressive therapy is associated with higher aldosterone/cortisol ratio, lower systolic blood pressure, and higher salt preference. Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG) contains glycyrrhizin, an inhibitor of 11β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase type-2 and antagonist of toll-like receptor 4. The primary hypothesis of this study is that food enrichment with GG extract results in decreased anxiety behavior and reduced salt preference under stress and non-stress conditions. The secondary hypothesis is that the mentioned changes are associated with altered gene expression of barrier proteins in the prefrontal cortex. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to chronic mild stress for five weeks. Both stressed and unstressed rats were fed a diet with or without an extract of GG roots for the last two weeks. GG induced anxiolytic effects in animals independent of stress exposure, as measured in elevated plus maze test. Salt preference and intake were significantly reduced by GG under control, but not stress conditions. The gene expression of the barrier protein claudin-11 in the prefrontal cortex was increased in control rats exposed to GG, whereas stress-induced rise was prevented. Exposure to GG-enriched diet resulted in reduced ZO-1 expression irrespective of stress conditions. In conclusion, the observed effects of GG are in line with a reduction in the activity of central mineralocorticoid receptors. The treatment with GG extract or its active components may, therefore, be a useful adjunct therapy for patients with subtypes of depression and anxiety disorders with heightened renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and/or inflammatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Murck
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, 35039 Marburg, Germany
| | - Peter Karailiev
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (L.K.); (A.P.); (D.J.)
| | - Lucia Karailievova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (L.K.); (A.P.); (D.J.)
| | - Agnesa Puhova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (L.K.); (A.P.); (D.J.)
| | - Daniela Jezova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (L.K.); (A.P.); (D.J.)
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Chen Y, Wang H. The changes in adrenal developmental programming and homeostasis in offspring induced by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2024; 124:463-490. [PMID: 38408809 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Clinically, synthetic glucocorticoids are often used to treat maternal and fetal related diseases, such as preterm birth and autoimmune diseases. Although its clinical efficacy is positive, it will expose the fetus to exogenous glucocorticoids. Adverse environments during pregnancy (e.g., exogenous glucocorticoids exposure, malnutrition, infection, hypoxia, and stress) can lead to fetal overexposure to endogenous maternal glucocorticoids. Basal glucocorticoids levels in utero are crucial in determining fetal tissue maturation and its postnatal fate. As the synthesis and secretion organ of glucocorticoids, the adrenal development is crucial for the growth and development of the body. Studies have found that glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy could cause abnormal fetal adrenal development, which could last after birth or even adulthood. As the key organ of fetal-originated adult disease, the adrenal developmental programming has a profound impact on the health of offspring, which can lead to many chronic diseases in adulthood. However, the aberrant adrenal development in offspring caused by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy and its intrauterine programming mechanism have not been systematically clarified. Therefore, this review summarizes recent research progress on the short and long-term hazards of aberrant adrenal development induced by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy, which is of great significance for the analysis of aberrant adrenal development and clarify the intrauterine origin mechanism of fetal-originated adult disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, P.R. China; Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, P.R. China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, P.R. China.
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Christakoudi S, Asimakopoulos AG, Riboli E, Tsilidis KK. Links between the genetic determinants of morning plasma cortisol and body shape: a two-sample Mendelian randomisation study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3230. [PMID: 38332183 PMCID: PMC10853188 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53727-4] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
High cortisol production in Cushing's syndrome leads to fat centralisation. The influence of modest cortisol variations on body shape, however, is less clear. We examined potentially causal associations between morning plasma cortisol and body shape and obesity with inverse-variance weighted random-effects models in a two-sample Mendelian randomisation analysis. We used publicly available summary statistics from the CORtisol NETwork (CORNET) consortium, UK Biobank, and the Genetic Investigation of Anthropometric Traits (GIANT) consortium. Only in women, morning plasma cortisol (proxied by ten genetic polymorphisms) was associated positively with waist size reflected in waist-to-hip index (WHI, 0.035 standard deviation (SD) units change per one SD cortisol increase; 95% confidence interval (0.002-0.067); p = 0.036) and "a body shape index" (ABSI; 0.039 (0.006-0.071); p = 0.021). There was no evidence for associations with hip index (HI) or body mass index (BMI). Among individual polymorphisms, rs7450600 stood out (chromosome 6; Long Intergenic Non-Protein-Coding RNA 473 gene, LINC00473). Morning plasma cortisol proxied by rs7450600 was associated positively with WHI and inversely with HI and BMI in women and men. Our findings support a causal association of higher morning plasma cortisol with larger waist size in women and highlight LINC00473 as a genetic link between morning plasma cortisol and body shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Christakoudi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, White City Campus, 90 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK.
| | | | - Elio Riboli
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, White City Campus, 90 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Konstantinos K Tsilidis
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, White City Campus, 90 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
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48
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Kang SW, Christensen KD, Jr. MTK, Orlowski SK. Effects of Environmental Enrichments on Welfare and Hepatic Metabolic Regulation of Broiler Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:557. [PMID: 38396525 PMCID: PMC10886341 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The aims of this study were to find suitable environmental enrichment (EE) and evaluate the combined effect of two EEs, variable light intensity (VL) lighting program and EH, on mental health and hepatic metabolic regulation in commercial broilers. To find the advantageous EEs for broilers, three different EEs (board, hut, and ramp) were tested in trial 1. EEs were placed and the engagement of birds to EEs, dustbathing behavior, and daily physical activity were observed. Birds treated with huts showed higher engagement than the board- or ramp-treated birds (p < 0.05). The results of dustbathing behavior and daily physical activity indicated that the environmental hut (EH) is the most favorable enrichment for broilers. In the second trial, to test the effect of EHs on mental health and hepatic metabolic conditions, the brain and liver were sampled from the four treatment birds (20 lx_Con, 20 lx_Hut, VL_Con and VL_Hut) on day 42. The lower expression of TPH2 (tryptophan hydroxylase 2) of VL_Hut birds than those of VL_Con and 20 lx_Hut treated birds suggests the combining effect of EHs with the VL lighting program on the central serotonergic homeostasis of broilers. Reduced expressions of TH (tyrosine hydroxylase), GR (glucocorticoid receptor), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) of VL_Hut treated birds compared to those of VL_Con and 20 lx_Hut birds suggest lower stress, stress susceptibility, and chronic social stress in VL_Hut treated birds. The expression of CPT1A (carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1) increased over three-fold in the liver of VL_Con birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds (p < 0.05). EHs treatment in VL birds (VL_Hut) significantly decreased CPT1A but not in 20 lx birds (20 lx_Hut). The expression of ACCα (acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha) was significantly decreased in VL_Con birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds. There was no significant difference in the hepatic FBPase (fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase), GR, and 11β-HSD1 (11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenease-1) expression between 20 lx_Con and VL_Con birds, but EHs significantly stimulated GR in 20 lx_Hut birds, and stimulated FBPase and 11β-HSD1 expression in the VL_Hut birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds, suggesting that the VL lighting program reduced fatty acid synthesis and increased fatty acid β-oxidation in the broilers' liver and VL_Hut improved the hepatic de novo glucose production. Taken together, the results suggest that the stimulated voluntary activity by EHs in the light-enriched broiler house improved mental health and hepatic metabolic function of broilers and may indicate that the improved hepatic metabolic function contributes to efficient nutritional support for broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong W. Kang
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA; (M.T.K.J.); (S.K.O.)
| | | | - Michael T. Kidd Jr.
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA; (M.T.K.J.); (S.K.O.)
| | - Sara K. Orlowski
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA; (M.T.K.J.); (S.K.O.)
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49
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Oestlund I, Snoep J, Schiffer L, Wabitsch M, Arlt W, Storbeck KH. The glucocorticoid-activating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 catalyzes the activation of testosterone. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 236:106436. [PMID: 38035948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone biosynthesis from its precursor androstenedione is thought to be exclusively catalysed by the 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases-HSD17B3 in testes, and AKR1C3 in the ovary, adrenal and peripheral tissues. Here we show for the first time that the glucocorticoid activating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1) can also catalyse the 17β-reduction of androstenedione to testosterone, using a combination of in vitro enzyme kinetic assays, mathematical modelling, and molecular docking analysis. Furthermore, we show that co-expression of HSD11B1 and AKR1C3 increases testosterone production several-fold compared to the rate observed with AKR1C3 only, and that HSD11B1 is likely to contribute significantly to testosterone production in peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imken Oestlund
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Jacky Snoep
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa; Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK; Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa; Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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50
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Harders EP, Charboneau C, Paitz RT. Extraembryonic metabolism of corticosterone protects against effects of exposure. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 347:114439. [PMID: 38158163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
When females experience stress during reproduction, developing embryos can be exposed to elevated levels of glucocorticoids, which can permanently affect offspring development, physiology, and behavior. However, the embryo can regulate exposure to glucocorticoids. In placental species, the placenta regulates embryonic exposure to maternal steroids via metabolism. In a comparable way, recent evidence has shown the extraembryonic membranes of avian species also regulate embryonic exposure to a number of maternal steroids deposited in the yolk via metabolism early in development. However, despite the known effects of embryonic exposure to glucocorticoids, it is not yet understood how glucocorticoids are metabolized early in development. To address this knowledge gap, we injected corticosterone into freshly laid chicken (Gallus gallus) eggs and identified corticosterone metabolites, located metabolomic enzyme transcript expression, tracked metabolomic enzyme transcript expression during the first six days of development, and determined the effect of corticosterone and metabolites on embryonic survival. We found that yolk corticosterone was metabolized before day four of development into two metabolites: 5β-corticosterone and 20β-corticosterone. The enzymes, AKR1D1 and CBR1 respectively, were expressed in the extraembryonic membranes. Expression was dynamic during early development, peaking on day two of development. Finally, we found that corticosterone exposure is lethal to the embryos, yet exposure to the metabolites is not, suggesting that metabolism protects the embryo. Ultimately, we show that the extraembryonic membranes of avian species actively regulate their endocrine environment very early in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily P Harders
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
| | | | - Ryan T Paitz
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA.
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