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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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Savani R, Park E, Busannagari N, Lu Y, Kwon H, Wang L, Pang Z. Metabolic and behavioral alterations associated with viral vector-mediated toxicity in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20231846. [PMID: 38227343 PMCID: PMC10830444 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20231846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Combining adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated expression of Cre recombinase with genetically modified floxed animals is a powerful approach for assaying the functional role of genes in regulating behavior and metabolism. Extensive research in diverse cell types and tissues using AAV-Cre has shown it can save time and avoid developmental compensation as compared to using Cre driver mouse line crossings. We initially sought to study the impact of ablation of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN) using intracranial AAV-Cre injection in adult animals. METHODS In this study, we stereotactically injected AAV8-hSyn-Cre or a control AAV8-hSyn-GFP both Crh-floxed and wild-type mouse PVN to assess behavioral and metabolic impacts. We then used immunohistochemical markers to systematically evaluate the density of hypothalamic peptidergic neurons and glial cells. RESULTS We found that delivery of one specific preparation of AAV8-hSyn-Cre in the PVN led to the development of obesity, hyperphagia, and anxiety-like behaviors. This effect occurred independent of sex and in both floxed and wild-type mice. We subsequently found that AAV8-hSyn-Cre led to neuronal cell death and gliosis at the site of viral vector injections. These behavioral and metabolic deficits were dependent on injection into the PVN. An alternatively sourced AAV-Cre did not reproduce the same results. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal that delivery of a specific batch of AAV-Cre could lead to cellular toxicity and lesions in the PVN that cause robust metabolic and behavioral impacts. These alterations can complicate the interpretation of Cre-mediated gene knockout and highlight the need for rigorous controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Savani
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Undergraduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Erin Park
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Undergraduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Nidhi Busannagari
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Undergraduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Yi Lu
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Hyokjoon Kwon
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, U.S.A
| | - Le Wang
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Zhiping P. Pang
- The Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, U.S.A
- Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, U.S.A
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Kageyama K, Iwasaki Y, Daimon M. Hypothalamic Regulation of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor under Stress and Stress Resilience. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212242. [PMID: 34830130 PMCID: PMC8621508 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the molecular mechanisms of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) regulation in the hypothalamus under stress and stress resilience. CRF in the hypothalamus plays a central role in regulating the stress response. CRF stimulates adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) release from the anterior pituitary. ACTH stimulates glucocorticoid secretion from the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoids are essential for stress coping, stress resilience, and homeostasis. The activated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is suppressed by the negative feedback from glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoid-dependent repression of cAMP-stimulated Crf promoter activity is mediated by both the negative glucocorticoid response element and the serum response element. Conversely, the inducible cAMP-early repressor can suppress the stress response via inhibition of the cAMP-dependent Crf gene, as can the suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 in the hypothalamus. CRF receptor type 1 is mainly involved in a stress response, depression, anorexia, and seizure, while CRF receptor type 2 mediates “stress coping” mechanisms such as anxiolysis in the brain. Differential effects of FK506-binding immunophilins, FKBP4 and FKBP5, contribute to the efficiency of glucocorticoids under stress resilience. Together, a variety of factors contribute to stress resilience. All these factors would have the differential roles under stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki 036-8562, Aomori, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-172-39-5062
| | - Yasumasa Iwasaki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition Management Nutrition Course, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science, 1001-1 Kishioka-cho, Suzuka 510-0293, Mie, Japan;
| | - Makoto Daimon
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki 036-8562, Aomori, Japan;
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Neuroendocrine control of appetite and metabolism. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:505-516. [PMID: 33837263 PMCID: PMC8102538 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00597-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Body homeostasis is predominantly controlled by hormones secreted by endocrine organs. The central nervous system contains several important endocrine structures, including the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Conventionally, neurohormones released by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland (hypophysis) have received much attention owing to the unique functions of the end hormones released by their target peripheral organs (e.g., glucocorticoids released by the adrenal glands). Recent advances in mouse genetics have revealed several important metabolic functions of hypothalamic neurohormone-expressing cells, many of which are not readily explained by the action of the corresponding classical downstream hormones. Notably, the newly identified functions are better explained by the action of conventional neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate and GABA) that constitute a neuronal circuit. In this review, we discuss the regulation of appetite and metabolism by hypothalamic neurohormone-expressing cells, with a focus on the distinct contributions of neurohormones and neurotransmitters released by these neurons.
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Wang Z, Gai Y, Zhou J, Liu J, Cui S. miR-375 mediates the CRF signaling pathway to regulate catecholamine biosynthesis by targeting Sp1 in porcine adrenal gland. Stress 2019; 22:332-346. [PMID: 30714474 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2018.1561845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing-factor (CRF) is a key regulator of catecholamines (CATs) biosynthesis in the adrenal gland. Furthermore, miR-375 has been confirmed to be localized in the mouse adrenal gland. However, the relationships between miR-375 and CRF in regulating CATs biosynthesis remain to be established. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between CRF and miR-375 in the regulation of CATs biosynthesis in the porcine adrenal gland. Eight adult female pigs (four controls; four injected intracerebroventricularly with 50 μg of CRF) were used for the in vivo experiments in this study. The results showed that miR-375 was exclusively localized in porcine adrenal medullary cells. Functional studies showed that miR-375 negatively regulated CATs synthesis in primary cells by affecting the expression of the CATs synthetases tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH), and phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT). CRF up-regulated the expression of CATs synthetase in primary adrenal medullary cells under basal conditions and upon endogenous miR-375 inhibition; the enhanced effects vanished when cellular miR-375 was overexpressed by transfecting miR-375-mic. CRF decreased the expression of miR-375 both in vivo and in vitro. Our in vitro results showed that CRF significantly decreased the expression of miR-375, perhaps by binding to CRFR1. miR-375 functions by directly binding to the 3'-UTR region of specificity protein 1 (Sp1), which is involved in regulating Th and Dbh expression. These data collectively indicate that miR-375 plays an important role in regulating CATs synthesis and mediates the CRF signaling pathway in porcine adrenal medullary cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijuan Wang
- a State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences , China Agricultural University , Beijing , PR China
| | - Yedan Gai
- a State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences , China Agricultural University , Beijing , PR China
| | - Jinlian Zhou
- b The 306th Hospital of People's Liberation Army , Beijing , PR China
| | - Jiali Liu
- a State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences , China Agricultural University , Beijing , PR China
| | - Sheng Cui
- a State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences , China Agricultural University , Beijing , PR China
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6
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Chatoo M, Li Y, Ma Z, Coote J, Du J, Chen X. Involvement of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor and Receptors in Immune Cells in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:21. [PMID: 29483895 PMCID: PMC5816029 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder defined by ROME IV criteria as pain in the lower abdominal region, which is associated with altered bowel habit or defecation. The underlying mechanism of IBS is not completely understood. IBS seems to be a product of interactions between various factors with genetics, dietary/intestinal microbiota, low-grade inflammation, and stress playing a key role in the pathogenesis of this disease. The crosstalk between the immune system and stress in IBS mechanism is increasingly recognized. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), a major mediator in the stress response, is involved in altered function in GI, including inflammatory processes, colonic transit time, contractile activity, defecation pattern, pain threshold, mucosal secretory function, and barrier functions. This mini review focuses on the recently establish local GI-CRF system, its involvement in modulating the immune response in IBS, and summarizes current IBS animal models and mapping of CRF, CRFR1, and CRFR2 expression in colon tissues. CRF and receptors might be a key molecule involving the immune and movement function via brain-gut axis in IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahanand Chatoo
- Division of Neurobiology and Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- Division of Neurobiology and Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- Division of Neurobiology and Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - John Coote
- School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jizeng Du
- Division of Neurobiology and Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuequn Chen
- Division of Neurobiology and Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xuequn Chen,
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7
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Noy EB, Scott MK, Grommen SVH, Robert KA, De Groef B. Molecular cloning and tissue distribution of Crh and Pomc mRNA in the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata), an Australian marsupial. Gene 2017; 627:26-31. [PMID: 28587847 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Like all vertebrates, marsupials respond to stressors with the activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, peptides operating at the higher regulatory levels of this hormonal system, i.e. corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), have not been investigated in marsupials. Here we report the molecular cloning of the precursor cDNAs of CRH (prepro-CRH) and of ACTH (proopiomelanocortin; POMC) in an Australian marsupial, the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). Dunnart POMC and prepro-CRH are predicted to be peptides of 399 and 200 amino acids, respectively. While the ACTH and β-endorphin sequences within the POMC sequence are highly conserved, the POMC sequence shows some unique features in this species, and perhaps all Australian marsupials, including the loss of a γ-melanotropin sequence and duplications of the ACTH sequence. Mature dunnart CRH is identical to CRH in human, mouse, rat and chicken. Pomc and Crh mRNA is mainly expressed in dunnart pituitary gland and brain, respectively, but both are also present in a range of peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellyse B Noy
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Melissa K Scott
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Sylvia V H Grommen
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Kylie A Robert
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Evolution, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Bert De Groef
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia.
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8
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Zhang R, Asai M, Mahoney CE, Joachim M, Shen Y, Gunner G, Majzoub JA. Loss of hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone markedly reduces anxiety behaviors in mice. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:733-744. [PMID: 27595593 PMCID: PMC5339066 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A long-standing paradigm posits that hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) regulates neuroendocrine functions such as adrenal glucocorticoid release, whereas extra-hypothalamic CRH has a key role in stressor-triggered behaviors. Here we report that hypothalamus-specific Crh knockout mice (Sim1CrhKO mice, created by crossing Crhflox with Sim1Cre mice) have absent Crh mRNA and peptide mainly in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) but preserved Crh expression in other brain regions including amygdala and cerebral cortex. As expected, Sim1CrhKO mice exhibit adrenal atrophy as well as decreased basal, diurnal and stressor-stimulated plasma corticosterone secretion and basal plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone, but surprisingly, have a profound anxiolytic phenotype when evaluated using multiple stressors including open-field, elevated plus maze, holeboard, light-dark box and novel object recognition task. Restoring plasma corticosterone did not reverse the anxiolytic phenotype of Sim1CrhKO mice. Crh-Cre driver mice revealed that PVHCrh fibers project abundantly to cingulate cortex and the nucleus accumbens shell, and moderately to medial amygdala, locus coeruleus and solitary tract, consistent with the existence of PVHCrh-dependent behavioral pathways. Although previous, nonselective attenuation of CRH production or action, genetically in mice and pharmacologically in humans, respectively, has not produced the anticipated anxiolytic effects, our data show that targeted interference specifically with hypothalamic Crh expression results in anxiolysis. Our data identify neurons that express both Sim1 and Crh as a cellular entry point into the study of CRH-mediated, anxiety-like behaviors and their therapeutic attenuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Key laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China; College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710069, China,Division for Experimental Natural Science, Faculty of Arts and Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan,To whom correspondence should be addressed. ;
| | - Masato Asai
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Carrie E Mahoney
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria Joachim
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yuan Shen
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Georgia Gunner
- Neurodevelopmental Behavior Core, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph A Majzoub
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed. ;
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Caldwell KE, Labrecque MT, Solomon BR, Ali A, Allan AM. Prenatal arsenic exposure alters the programming of the glucocorticoid signaling system during embryonic development. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2014; 47:66-79. [PMID: 25459689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2014.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The glucocorticoid system, which plays a critical role in a host of cellular functions including mood disorders and learning and memory, has been reported to be disrupted by arsenic. In previous work we have developed and characterized a prenatal moderate arsenic exposure (50ppb) model and identified several deficits in learning and memory and mood disorders, as well as alterations within the glucocorticoid receptor signaling system in the adolescent mouse. In these present studies we assessed the effects of arsenic on the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) pathway in both the placenta and the fetal brain in response at two critical periods, embryonic days 14 and 18. The focus of these studies was on the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes (11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2) which play a key role in glucorticoid synthesis, as well as the expression and set point of the GR negative feedback regulation. Negative feedback regulation is established early in development. At E14 we found arsenic exposure significantly decreased expression of both protein and message in brain of GR and the 11β-HSD1, while 11β-HSD2 enzyme protein levels were increased but mRNA levels were decreased in the brain. These changes in brain protein continued into the E18 time point, but mRNA levels were no longer significantly altered. Placental HSD11B2 mRNA was not altered by arsenic treatment but protein levels were elevated at E14. GR placental protein levels were decreased at E18 in the arsenic exposed condition. This suggests that arsenic exposure may alter GR expression levels as a consequence of a prolonged developmental imbalance between 11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2 protein expression despite decreased 11HSDB2 mRNA. The suppression of GR and the failure to turn down 11β-HSD2 protein expression during fetal development may lead to an altered set point for GR signaling throughout adulthood. To our knowledge, these studies are the first to demonstrate that gestational exposure to moderate levels of arsenic results in altered fetal programming of the glucocorticoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E Caldwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Matthew T Labrecque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Benjamin R Solomon
- Department of Neuroscience, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Abdulmehdi Ali
- Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Andrea M Allan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States.
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Administration of antenatal glucocorticoids and postnatal surfactant ameliorates respiratory distress syndrome-associated neonatal lethality in Erk3(-/-) mouse pups. Pediatr Res 2014; 76:24-32. [PMID: 24732107 PMCID: PMC4062596 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2014.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) persists as a prevalent cause of infant morbidity and mortality. We have previously demonstrated that deletion of Erk3 results in pulmonary immaturity and neonatal lethality. Using RNA sequencing, we identified corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) and surfactant protein B (SFTPB) as potential molecular mediators of Erk3-dependent lung maturation. In this study, we characterized the impact of antenatal glucocorticoids and postnatal surfactant on neonatal survival of Erk3 null mice. METHODS In a double crossover design, we administered dexamethasone (dex) or saline to pregnant dams during the saccular stage of lung development, followed by postnatal surfactant or saline via inhalation intubation. Survival was recorded, and detailed lung histological analysis and staining for CRH and SFTPB protein expression were performed. RESULTS Without treatment, Erk3 null pups die within 6 h of birth with reduced aerated space, impaired thinning of the alveolar septa, and abundant glycogen stores, as described in human RDS. The administration of dex and surfactant improved RDS-associated lethality of Erk3(-/-) pups and partially restored functional fetal lung maturation by accelerating the downregulation of pulmonary CRH and partially rescuing the production of SFTPB. CONCLUSION These findings emphasize that Erk3 is integral to terminal differentiation of type II cells, SFTPB production, and fetal pulmonary maturity.
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Hojo M, Ohkusa T, Tomeoku H, Koido S, Asaoka D, Nagahara A, Watanabe S. Corticotropin-releasing factor secretion from dendritic cells stimulated by commensal bacteria. World J Gastroenterol 2011; 17:4017-22. [PMID: 22046091 PMCID: PMC3199561 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i35.4017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2010] [Revised: 02/11/2011] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To study the production and secretion of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) by dendritic cells and the influence of commensal bacteria.
METHODS: JAWSII cells (ATCC CRL-11904), a mouse dendritic cell line, were seeded into 24-well culture plates and grown for 3 d. Commensal bacterial strains of Clostridium clostrodiiforme (JCM1291), Bacteroides vulgatus (B. vulgatus) (JCM5856), Escherichia coli (JCM1649), or Fusobacterium varium (F. varium) (ATCC8501) were added to the cells except for the control well, and incubated for 2 h. After incubation, we performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the cultured medium and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for the dendritic cells, and compared these values with controls.
RESULTS: The level of CRF secretion by control dendritic cells was 40.4 ± 6.2 pg/mL. The CRF levels for cells incubated with F. varium and B. vulgatus were significantly higher than that of the control (P < 0.0001). CRF mRNA was present in the control sample without bacteria, and CRF mRNA levels in all samples treated with bacteria were above that of the control sample. F. varium caused the greatest increase in CRF mRNA expression.
CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that dendritic cells produce CRF, a process augmented by commensal bacteria.
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Kageyama K, Tamasawa N, Suda T. Signal transduction in the hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing factor system and its clinical implications. Stress 2011; 14:357-67. [PMID: 21438777 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2010.536279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a major regulatory peptide in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis under stress conditions. In response to stress, CRF is produced in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. Forskolin- or pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide-stimulated CRF gene transcription is mediated by the cyclic AMP (cAMP) response element on the CRF 5'-promoter region. Estrogens enhance activation of the CRF gene in stress, while inducible cAMP-early repressor suppresses the stress response via inhibition of the cAMP-dependent CRF gene. Glucocorticoid-dependent repression of cAMP-stimulated CRF promoter activity is mediated by both the negative glucocorticoid-response element and the serum-response element, while interleukin-6 (IL-6) stimulates the CRF gene. Suppressor of cytokine signaling-3, stimulated by IL-6 and cAMP, is involved in the negative regulation of CRF gene expression. Such complex mechanisms contribute to stress responses and homeostasis in the hypothalamus. Moreover, disruption of the HPA axis may cause a number of diseases related to stress. For example, CRF-induced p21-activated kinase 3 mRNA expression may be related to the proliferation of corticotrophs in Nelson's syndrome. A higher molecular weight form of immunoreactive β-endorphin, putative proopiomelanocortin (POMC), is increased in CRF-knockout mice, suggesting the important role of CRF in the processing of POMC through changes in prohormone convertase type-1 expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan.
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13
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Stengel A, Taché Y. Corticotropin-releasing factor signaling and visceral response to stress. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2010; 235:1168-78. [PMID: 20881321 PMCID: PMC3169435 DOI: 10.1258/ebm.2010.009347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress may cause behavioral and/or psychiatric manifestations such as anxiety and depression and also impact on the function of different visceral organs, namely the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. During the past years substantial progress has been made in the understanding of the underlying mechanisms recruited by stressors. Activation of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) signaling system is recognized to be involved in a large number of stress-related behavioral and somatic disorders. This review will outline the present knowledge on the distribution of the CRF system (ligands and receptors) expressed in the brain and peripheral viscera and its relevance in stress-induced alterations of gastrointestinal and cardiovascular functions and the therapeutic potential of CRF(1) receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stengel
- CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center and Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Digestive Diseases Division, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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14
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De Luca A, Squillacioti C, Pero ME, Paino S, Langella E, Mirabella N. Urocortin-like immunoreactivity in the primary lymphoid organs of the duck ( Anas platyrhynchos). Eur J Histochem 2009; 53:e20. [PMID: 30256876 PMCID: PMC3168230 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2009.e20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Urocortin (UCN) is a 40 aminoacid peptide which belongs to corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family. This family of peptides stimulates the secretion of proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptides, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), β-endorphin and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) in the pituitary gland. In the present study, using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, the distribution of UCN in the primary lymphoid organs of the duck was investigated at different ages. In the cloacal burse and thymus, Western blot demonstrated the presence of a peptide having a molecular weight compatible with that of the mammalian UCN. In the cloacal burse, immunoreactivity was located in the medullary epithelial cells and in the follicular associated and corticomedullary epithelium. In the thymus, immunoreactivity was located in single epithelial cells. Double labelling immunofluorescence studies showed that UCN immunoreactivity completely colocalised with cytokeratin immunoreactivity in both the thymus and cloacal burse. Statistically significant differences in the percentage of UCN immunoreactivity were observed between different age periods in the cloacal burse. The results suggest that, in birds, urocortin has an important role in regulating the function of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A De Luca
- Department of Structures, Functions and biological Technologies, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli
| | - C Squillacioti
- Department of Structures, Functions and biological Technologies, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli
| | - M E Pero
- Department of Structures, Functions and biological Technologies, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli
| | - S Paino
- Department of Sciences of Animal Production, University of Basilicata, Italy
| | - E Langella
- Department of Sciences of Animal Production, University of Basilicata, Italy
| | - N Mirabella
- Department of Structures, Functions and biological Technologies, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli
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15
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Kageyama K, Suda T. Role and action in the pituitary corticotroph of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the hypothalamus. Peptides 2009; 30:810-6. [PMID: 19124055 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2008.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2008] [Revised: 12/04/2008] [Accepted: 12/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), produced in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in response to stress, stimulates the synthesis and secretion of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) via CRF receptor type 1 (CRF(1) receptor) in the anterior pituitary (AP) of mammals. CRF is critical for the circadian rhythmicity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the augmented release of ACTH from the pituitary in response to the stress. A higher molecular weight form of immunoreactive beta-endorphin, putative proopiomelanocortin (POMC), is increased in CRF-knockout mice (CRF KO), suggesting the important role of CRF in the processing of POMC. In fact, CRF is able to modulate the processing of POMC through changes in prohormone convertase (PC)-1 expression levels. Multiple forms of ACTH-related peptides containing unprocessed ones are present in some cases of ACTH-producing tumors, presumably without action of PC-1 under the control of CRF. Following CRF-activated stimulation of the receptor signaling, CRF(1) receptor is down-regulated and desensitized. In fact, CRF facilitates the degradation of CRF(1) receptor mRNA via the protein kinase A pathway. Prolonged agonist activation of CRF(1) receptor leads to a loss of responsiveness, or desensitization of the receptor. G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 is involved in desensitization of CRF(1) receptor by CRF in the corticotroph.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Zaifu-cho, Aomori, Japan.
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16
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Smith EM. Neuropeptides as signal molecules in common with leukocytes and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Brain Behav Immun 2008; 22:3-14. [PMID: 17900859 PMCID: PMC2194290 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2007.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 08/20/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There exists a bidirectional regulatory circuit between the nervous and immune systems. This regulation has been shown to be mediated in part through neuroendocrine hormones and cytokines. Both systems have receptors for both types of signal molecules. The nervous system has receptors for cytokines and it also synthesizes cytokines. The immune system synthesizes and responds to cytokines. So, it is not too far-fetched to believe that neuroendocrine peptide hormones could bind to leukocytes and modulate immune functions. However, it is not widely known that the immune system also synthesizes functional, neuropeptide hormones. This will be discussed in this paper citing a plethora of evidence. The aim of this paper is to summarize this evidence by using three neuropeptides that are synthesized by leukocytes and modulate immune functions as examples; corticotropin (ACTH), endorphin (END), and corticotropin releasing factor (CRF). The production and action of these three neuropeptides in the immune system will be explained. Finally, the potential physiological role of leukocyte-derived ACTH, END, and CRF in inflammation as a localized hypothalamic-pituitary-like axis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-0431, USA.
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17
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Yao M, Denver RJ. Regulation of vertebrate corticotropin-releasing factor genes. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2007; 153:200-16. [PMID: 17382944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2007.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2006] [Accepted: 01/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Developmental, physiological, and behavioral adjustments in response to environmental change are crucial for animal survival. In vertebrates, the neuroendocrine stress system, comprised of the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal/interrenal glands (HPA/HPI axis) plays a central role in adaptive stress responses. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is the primary hypothalamic neurohormone regulating the HPA/HPI axis. CRF also functions as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator in the limbic system and brain stem to coordinate endocrine, behavioral, and autonomic responses to stressors. Glucocorticoids, the end products of the HPA/HPI axis, cause feedback regulation at multiple levels of the stress axis, exerting direct and indirect actions on CRF neurons. The spatial expression patterns of CRF, and stressor-dependent CRF gene activation in the central nervous system (CNS) are evolutionarily conserved. This suggests conservation of the gene regulatory mechanisms that underlie tissue-specific and stressor-dependent CRF expression. Comparative genomic analysis showed that the proximal promoter regions of vertebrate CRF genes are highly conserved. Several cis regulatory elements and trans acting factors have been implicated in stressor-dependent CRF gene activation, including cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB), activator protein 1 (AP-1/Fos/Jun), and nerve growth factor induced gene B (NGFI-B). Glucocorticoids, acting through the glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors, either repress or promote CRF expression depending on physiological state and CNS region. In this review, we take a comparative/evolutionary approach to understand the physiological regulation of CRF gene expression. We also discuss evolutionarily conserved molecular mechanisms that operate at the level of CRF gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Yao
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, 3065C Kraus Natural Science Building, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048, USA
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18
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Carroll JA, Forsberg NE. Influence of Stress and Nutrition on Cattle Immunity. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2007; 23:105-49. [PMID: 17382844 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2007.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Today, the scientific community readily embraces the fact that stress and nutrition impact every physiologic process in the body. At last, the specific mechanisms by which stress and nutrition affect the immune function are being elucidated. The debate among animal scientists concerning the definition and quantification of stress as it relates to animal productivity and well-being is ongoing. However, an increased appreciation and understanding of the effects of stress on livestock production has emerged throughout the scientific community and with livestock producers. The intent of this article is to provide an overview of the general concepts of stress and immunology, and to review the effects of stress and nutrition on the immune system of cattle.
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19
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Kageyama K, Kimura R, Suga S, Ogawa Y, Suda T, Wakui M. Modulation of Ca2+ influx by corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family of peptides via CRF receptors in rat pancreatic beta-cells. Peptides 2006; 27:1814-9. [PMID: 16513211 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2006.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2005] [Revised: 01/25/2006] [Accepted: 01/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The actions of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family of peptides are mediated by the seven transmembrane-domain G-protein-coupled receptors, the CRF receptors type 1 (CRF1 receptor) and type 2 (CRF2 receptor). In a previous study, we reported that CRF, an endogenous ligand for CRF1 receptor, modulated Ca2+ influx in rat pancreatic beta-cells. In addition to CRF, other additional members of the family, urocortins, have been identified in mammals. Urocortin 1 (UCN 1), a peptide of the CRF family, binds both CRF1 receptor and CRF2 receptor with equal affinities. Urocortin 3 (UCN 3), a highly selective ligand for CRF2 receptor with little affinity for CRF1 receptor, has been shown in rat pancreatic beta-cells. The present study focused on the effects of the CRF family peptides on intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) concentration via CRF receptors in rat pancreatic beta-cells. Microfluorimetric experiments showed that CRF (0.2 nM) and UCN 1 (0.2 nM) elevated [Ca2+]i levels. Both CRF and UCN 1 effects were attenuated by astressin, a non-selective CRF receptor antagonist. Antisauvagine-30, a selective CRF2 receptor antagonist, appeared to enhance the UCN 1 effect on the elevation of [Ca2+]i. The CRF effect on the elevation of [Ca2+]i was inhibited by the addition of UCN 3. Taken together, the activation of CRF2 receptor antagonizes the CRF1 receptor-stimulated Ca2+ influx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Infectious Diseases Hirosaki University School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan.
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20
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Kriegsfeld LJ, Silver R. The regulation of neuroendocrine function: Timing is everything. Horm Behav 2006; 49:557-74. [PMID: 16497305 PMCID: PMC3275441 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2005.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2005] [Revised: 12/06/2005] [Accepted: 12/08/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Hormone secretion is highly organized temporally, achieving optimal biological functioning and health. The master clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus coordinates the timing of circadian rhythms, including daily control of hormone secretion. In the brain, the SCN drives hormone secretion. In some instances, SCN neurons make direct synaptic connections with neurosecretory neurons. In other instances, SCN signals set the phase of "clock genes" that regulate circadian function at the cellular level within neurosecretory cells. The protein products of these clock genes can also exert direct transcriptional control over neuroendocrine releasing factors. Clock genes and proteins are also expressed in peripheral endocrine organs providing additional modes of temporal control. Finally, the SCN signals endocrine glands via the autonomic nervous system, allowing for rapid regulation via multisynaptic pathways. Thus, the circadian system achieves temporal regulation of endocrine function by a combination of genetic, cellular, and neural regulatory mechanisms to ensure that each response occurs in its correct temporal niche. The availability of tools to assess the phase of molecular/cellular clocks and of powerful tract tracing methods to assess connections between "clock cells" and their targets provides an opportunity to examine circadian-controlled aspects of neurosecretion, in the search for general principles by which the endocrine system is organized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance J Kriegsfeld
- Department of Psychology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, 3210 Tolman Hall, #1650, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1650, USA.
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21
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Lund TD, Hinds LR, Handa RJ. The androgen 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone and its metabolite 5alpha-androstan-3beta, 17beta-diol inhibit the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal response to stress by acting through estrogen receptor beta-expressing neurons in the hypothalamus. J Neurosci 2006; 26:1448-56. [PMID: 16452668 PMCID: PMC6675494 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3777-05.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) and androgen receptor (AR) are found in high levels within populations of neurons in the hypothalamus. To determine whether AR or ERbeta plays a role in regulating hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function by direct action on these neurons, we examined the effects of central implants of 17beta-estradiol (E2), 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the DHT metabolite 5alpha-androstan-3beta, 17beta-diol (3beta-diol), and several ER subtype-selective agonists on the corticosterone and adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) response to immobilization stress. In addition, activation of neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) was monitored by examining c-fos mRNA expression. Pellets containing these compounds were stereotaxically implanted near the PVN of gonadectomized male rats. Seven days later, animals were killed directly from their home cage (nonstressed) or were restrained for 30 min (stressed) before they were killed. Compared with controls, E2 and the ERalpha-selective agonists moxestrol and propyl-pyrazole-triol significantly increased the stress induced release of corticosterone and ACTH. In contrast, central administration of DHT, 3beta-diol, and the ERbeta-selective compound diarylpropionitrile significantly decreased the corticosterone and ACTH response to immobilization. Cotreatment with the ER antagonist tamoxifen completely blocked the effects of 3beta-diol and partially blocked the effect of DHT, whereas the AR antagonist flutamide had no effect. Moreover, DHT, 3beta-diol, and diarylpropionitrile treatment significantly decreased restraint-induced c-fos mRNA expression in the PVN. Together, these studies indicate that the inhibitory effects of DHT on HPA axis activity may be in part mediated via its conversion to 3beta-diol and subsequent binding to ERbeta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trent D Lund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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22
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Smith EM, Gregg M, Hashemi F, Schott L, Hughes TK. Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) activation of NF-kappaB-directed transcription in leukocytes. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2006; 26:1021-36. [PMID: 16633893 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-006-9040-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2005] [Accepted: 02/21/2006] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
1. The aim of this study was to test whether CRF enhanced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB)-directed gene transcription in leukocytes and the receptor specificity of the effect. Initially, we examined the ability of CRF to modulate an antigen-specific, in vitro antibody response. Since that could be mediated by NF-kappaB transcription factor activity, we tested CRF in a NF-kappaB driven luciferase gene expression reporter assay. 2. CRF enhanced the antigen-specific antibody production in a dose- and time-dependent manner. RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and splenocytes stained by immunohistochemistry were positive for CRF receptors and CRF. Expression of both was up-regulated by mitogen treatment of the splenocytes. CRF also enhanced the NF-kappaB-regulated reporter assay and this could be blocked by a CRF-R1 receptor antagonist. 3. In light of these findings, it seems likely that CRF enhanced the antigen-specific antibody response through the CRF-R1 receptor by elevation of NF-kappaB activity. This study provides further support for the concept that CRF can act as an immunomodulator mediating neuro-immune interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA.
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23
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Boorse GC, Denver RJ. Widespread tissue distribution and diverse functions of corticotropin-releasing factor and related peptides. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2006; 146:9-18. [PMID: 16413023 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2005.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2005] [Revised: 11/18/2005] [Accepted: 11/26/2005] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Peptides of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family are expressed throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and in peripheral tissues where they play diverse roles in physiology, behavior, and development. Current data supports the existence of four paralogous genes in vertebrates that encode CRF, urocortin/urotensin 1, urocortin 2 or urocortin 3. Corticotropin-releasing factor is the major hypophysiotropin for adrenocorticotropin, and also functions as a thyrotropin-releasing factor in non-mammalian species. In the CNS, CRF peptides function as neurotransmitters/neuromodulators. Recent work shows that CRF peptides are also expressed at diverse sites outside of the CNS in mammals, and we found widespread expression of CRF and urocortins, CRF receptors and CRF binding protein (CRF-BP) genes in the frog Xenopus laevis. The functions of CRF peptides expressed in the periphery in non-mammalian species are largely unexplored. We recently found that CRF acts as a cytoprotective agent in the X. laevis tadpole tail, and that the CRF-BP can block CRF action and hasten tail muscle cell death. The expression of the CRF-BP is strongly upregulated in the tadpole tail at metamorphic climax where it may neutralize CRF bioactivity, thus promoting tail resorption. Corticotropin-releasing factor and urocortins are also known to be cytoprotective in mammalian cells. Thus, CRF peptides may play diverse roles in physiology and development, and these functions likely arose early in vertebrate evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham C Boorse
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048, USA
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24
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Benou C, Wang Y, Imitola J, VanVlerken L, Chandras C, Karalis KP, Khoury SJ. Corticotropin-releasing hormone contributes to the peripheral inflammatory response in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2005; 174:5407-13. [PMID: 15843539 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.174.9.5407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is thought to have proinflammatory effects. We used the model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) to study the role of CRH in an immune-mediated disease. We showed that CRH-deficient mice are resistant to EAE, with a decrease in clinical score as well as decreased cellular infiltration in the CNS. Furthermore, Ag-specific responses of primed T cells as well as anti-CD3/anti-CD28 TCR costimulation were decreased in crh(-/-) mice with decreased production of Th1 cytokines and increased production of Th2 cytokines. Wild-type mice treated in vivo with a CRH antagonist showed a decrease in IFN-gamma production by primed T cells in vitro. This effect of CRH is independent of its ability to increase corticosterone production, because adrenalectomized wild-type mice had similar disease course and severity as control mice. We found that IkappaBalpha phosphorylation induced by TCR cross-linking was decreased in crh(-/-) T cells. We conclude that peripheral CRH exerts a proinflammatory effect in EAE with a selective increase in Th1-type responses. These findings have implications for the treatment of Th1-mediated diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigen Presentation/genetics
- Antigen Presentation/immunology
- Antigen-Presenting Cells/immunology
- Antigen-Presenting Cells/pathology
- Cell Differentiation/genetics
- Cell Differentiation/immunology
- Cells, Cultured
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/antagonists & inhibitors
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/deficiency
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/genetics
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/physiology
- Cytokines/biosynthesis
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/genetics
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/immunology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/prevention & control
- Glucocorticoids/biosynthesis
- I-kappa B Proteins/metabolism
- Immunity, Innate/genetics
- Inflammation Mediators/antagonists & inhibitors
- Inflammation Mediators/physiology
- Lymphocyte Count
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- NF-KappaB Inhibitor alpha
- Phosphorylation
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/physiology
- Severity of Illness Index
- Spleen/immunology
- Spleen/metabolism
- Spleen/pathology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/metabolism
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/pathology
- Th1 Cells/cytology
- Th1 Cells/immunology
- Th2 Cells/immunology
- Th2 Cells/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Benou
- Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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25
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Makino S, Tanaka Y, Nazarloo HP, Noguchi T, Nishimura K, Hashimoto K. Expression of type 1 corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptor mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus following restraint stress in CRH-deficient mice. Brain Res 2005; 1048:131-7. [PMID: 15919058 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2005.04.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2005] [Revised: 04/18/2005] [Accepted: 04/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that various types of stress increase type 1 corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptor (currently abbreviated to CRF1 receptor) mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of rats, but not mice. This study investigated whether different sensitivities of glucocorticoid-mediated negative feedback effects can explain this species difference in stress-induced PVN CRF1 receptor mRNA expression. First, the CRF1 receptor mRNA level in the PVN of CRH knockout (KO) mice during acute restraint stress was compared with that in wild-type (WT) mice. Consistent with previous findings, WT mice showed no induction of CRF1 receptor mRNA in the PVN following acute restraint, regardless of normal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical responses. In contrast, CRF1 receptor mRNA in the PVN of CRH KO mice was increased following 2 h of restraint. Since the response of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) mRNA in the locus coeruleus (LC) to restraint was similar between CRH KO and WT mice, it is unlikely that enhanced noradrenergic input into the PVN was responsible for the CRF1 receptor mRNA induction in CRH KO mice. Second, to determine whether CRH KO per se or a low corticosterone response to stress is required to induce CRF1 receptor mRNA expression in the PVN in mice, the response of adrenalectomized WT mice was examined. Acute restraint increased the CRF1 receptor mRNA level in the PVN of adrenalectomized WT mice, similar to the case for CRH KO mice. TH mRNA in the LC showed similar increases in sham and adrenalectomized WT mice. These results indicate that PVN CRF1 receptor mRNA is much more sensitive to glucocorticoid-mediated negative feedback in mice than in rats, such that a normal increase in plasma corticosterone during stress can mask CRF1 receptor mRNA induction in the PVN of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Makino
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Okoh-cho, Nankoku-city, Kochi 783-8505, Japan.
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26
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Vandenborne K, De Groef B, Geelissen SME, Boorse GC, Denver RJ, Kühn ER, Darras VM, Van der Geyten S. Molecular cloning and developmental expression of corticotropin-releasing factor in the chicken. Endocrinology 2005; 146:301-8. [PMID: 15388646 DOI: 10.1210/en.2004-0608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have characterized the structure of the chicken corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) gene through cDNA cloning and genomic sequence analysis, and we analyzed the expression of CRF mRNA and peptide in the diencephalon of the chick throughout embryonic development. The structure of the chicken CRF gene is similar to other vertebrate CRF genes and contains two exons and a single intron. The primary structure of the mature chicken CRF peptide is identical to human and rat CRF. This is the first archosaurian CRF gene to be characterized. We used RIAs to analyze CRF peptide content in the diencephalon and the median eminence and plasma corticosterone during the last week of embryonic development. We also developed a semiquantitative RT-PCR method to analyze the expression of CRF mRNA during the same period. CRF peptide content in the diencephalon increased, whereas peptide content in the ME decreased just before hatching, suggesting that release and biosynthesis are coupled. Plasma corticosterone concentration significantly increased between embryonic d 20 and the first day post hatch. By contrast, CRF mRNA levels in the diencephalon decreased just before hatching. Changes in CRF production just before hatching may be causally related to the regulation of the thyroid and interrenal axes at this stage of chicken development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristien Vandenborne
- Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, Zoological Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Abel KB, Majzoub JA. Molecular biology of the HPA axis. HANDBOOK OF STRESS AND THE BRAIN - PART 1: THE NEUROBIOLOGY OF STRESS 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s0921-0709(05)80008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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28
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Fukuda Y, Kageyama K, Nigawara T, Kasagi Y, Suda T. Effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) on the synthesis and secretion of proopiomelanocortin-related peptides in the anterior pituitary: a study using CRH-deficient mice. Neurosci Lett 2004; 367:201-4. [PMID: 15331153 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2004.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2004] [Accepted: 06/01/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) mainly regulates the synthesis and secretion of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) in the anterior pituitary (AP). By using CRH-deficient mice (CRH KO), we investigated the role of CRH in the processing of proopiomelanocortin (POMC), a precursor of ACTH, beta-lipotropic hormone, and beta-endorphin (EP). In the basal condition, the plasma ACTH level was similar in CRH KO and wild-type mice (WT), while its response to pain stress in CRH KO was smaller than that in WT. Immunoreactive (ir) beta-EP contents in the AP of CRH KO were not significantly different from those of WT. In order to determine the different molecule profile of POMC-related peptides between WT and CRH KO, ir beta-EP contents extracted from AP of WT and CRH KO were assayed by gel filtration chromatography. The gel filtration analyses revealed that a higher molecular weight form of ir beta-EP, putative POMC, was increased in CRH KO, but the beta-EP peak level was small and similar between two groups. These results suggest that CRH has little influence on the basal release of ACTH and prohormone convertase-2 processing enzyme. On the other hand, it is essential for ACTH secretion under stress conditions, and CRH would affect on the prohormone convertase-1/3 processing enzyme in AP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiko Fukuda
- The Third Department of Internal Medicine, Hirosaki University School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
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Anton PM, Gay J, Mykoniatis A, Pan A, O'Brien M, Brown D, Karalis K, Pothoulakis C. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) requirement in Clostridium difficile toxin A-mediated intestinal inflammation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2004; 101:8503-8. [PMID: 15159534 PMCID: PMC420423 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0402693101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridium difficile, the causative agent of antibiotic-associated colitis, mediates inflammatory diarrhea by releasing toxin A, a potent 308-kDa enterotoxin. Toxin A-induced inflammatory diarrhea involves many steps, including mucosal release of substance P (SP) corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and neutrophil transmigration. Here we demonstrate that, compared with wild type, mice genetically deficient in CRH (Crh(-/-)) have dramatically reduced ileal fluid secretion, epithelial cell damage, and neutrophil transmigration 4 h after intraluminal toxin A administration. This response is associated with diminished mucosal activity of the neutrophil enzyme myeloperoxidase compared with that of wildtype mice. In wild-type mice, toxin A stimulates an increase in intestinal SP content compared with buffer administration. In contrast, toxin A administration in Crh(-/-) mice fails to result in an increased SP content. Moreover, immunohistochemical experiments showed that CRH and SP are colocalized in some enteric nerves of wild-type mice, and this colocalization is more evident after toxin A administration. These results provide direct evidence for a major proinflammatory role for CRH in the pathophysiology of enterotoxin-mediated inflammatory diarrhea and indicate a SP-linked pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline M Anton
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Dotzler SA, Digeronimo RJ, Yoder BA, Siler-Khodr TM. Distribution of corticotropin releasing hormone in the fetus, newborn, juvenile, and adult baboon. Pediatr Res 2004; 55:120-5. [PMID: 14605257 DOI: 10.1203/01.pdr.0000100460.00639.f4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) has previously been identified in extrahypothalamic tissues and may act in a paracrine fashion within these tissues. To date, CRH production and its role in the fetus and newborn have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to explore the distribution and ontogeny of CRH in extrahypothalamic tissues of the fetus, newborn, juvenile, and adult baboon. Pituitary, adrenal, kidney, liver, and lung tissues from baboons at 125 d gestation, 140 d gestation, 185 d gestation (term), juveniles, and adults were obtained at necropsy. The tissues were quantified for protein and immunoreactive CRH was determined by a RIA. CRH levels were normalized to the protein content of each tissue. CRH was present in all tissues and varied over a 100-fold range according to tissue type. The highest concentration of CRH was found in the pituitary, which did not differ with the gestation and/or age of the animal. In the lung tissues of 125- and 140-d gestation animals, CRH was greater than the term, juvenile, and adult lung (p < 0.02). CRH in the adrenal gland of the 125-d samples was greater than the other four ages tested (p < 0.02). Liver CRH levels were higher in the term animals compared with the juvenile baboons. Our study documents the existence of CRH in extrahypothalamic tissues of the baboon from 125 d of gestation to adulthood. Given its presence and distribution, we speculate that CRH may exert ongoing paracrine and/or autocrine actions in these tissues from the time of intrauterine life throughout adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Dotzler
- Department of Pediatrics, Wilford Hall Medical Center, 2200 Berquist Suite 1, Lackland AFB, TX 78236, USA.
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31
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Brewer JA, Khor B, Vogt SK, Muglia LM, Fujiwara H, Haegele KE, Sleckman BP, Muglia LJ. T-cell glucocorticoid receptor is required to suppress COX-2-mediated lethal immune activation. Nat Med 2003; 9:1318-22. [PMID: 12949501 DOI: 10.1038/nm895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2003] [Accepted: 06/02/2003] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids, acting through the glucocorticoid receptor, potently modulate immune function and are a mainstay of therapy for treatment of inflammatory conditions, autoimmune diseases, leukemias and lymphomas. Moreover, removal of systemic glucocorticoids, by adrenalectomy in animal models or adrenal insufficiency in humans, has shown that endogenous glucocorticoid production is required for regulation of physiologic immune responses. These effects have been attributed to suppression of cytokines, although the crucial cellular and molecular targets remain unknown. In addition, considerable controversy remains as to whether glucocorticoids are required for thymocyte development. To assess the role of the glucocorticoid receptor in immune system development and function, we generated T-cell-specific glucocorticoid receptor knockout mice. Here we show that the T-cell is a critical cellular target of glucocorticoid receptor signaling, as immune activation in these mice resulted in significant mortality. This lethal activation is rescued by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition but not steroid administration or cytokine neutralization. These studies indicate that glucocorticoid receptor suppression of COX-2 is crucial for curtailing lethal immune activation, and suggest new therapeutic approaches for regulation of T-cell-mediated inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judson A Brewer
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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Bailey M, Engler H, Hunzeker J, Sheridan JF. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and viral infection. Viral Immunol 2003; 16:141-57. [PMID: 12828866 DOI: 10.1089/088282403322017884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays an important immunomodulatory role during viral infection. Activation of the HPA axis ultimately leads to elevated plasma levels of glucocorticoid (GC) hormones with the ability to mediate adaptive behavioral, metabolic, cardiovascular and immune system effects. In this review, we focus on the modulation of anti-viral immunity and viral pathogenesis by the HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bailey
- Section of Oral Biology, Colleges of Dentistry, Medicine and Public Health, The Ohio University Health Sciences Center, Columbus, Ohio 43218-2357, USA
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Venihaki M, Zhao J, Karalis KP. Corticotropin-releasing hormone deficiency results in impaired splenocyte response to lipopolysaccharide. J Neuroimmunol 2003; 141:3-9. [PMID: 12965248 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-5728(03)00183-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (Crh), a major mediator of the stress response, has been shown to exert both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on the regulation of the immune system, in vivo. In our present study, we used the Crh-/- mice to investigate the effect of Crh deficiency on leukocyte function in vitro. Our results show that following LPS treatment, TNF-alpha and IL-1beta expression was significantly compromised in Crh-/- splenocytes, an effect most likely mediated by the lower levels of NF-kappaB DNA binding activity measured in the same cells. Furthermore, we show here that the proliferation rate of Crh-/- splenocytes in response to LPS was decreased compared to Crh+/+ splenocytes. Taken together, our findings show that the presence of endogenous Crh is necessary for the normal function of leukocytes, in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Venihaki
- Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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34
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Brewer JA, Bethin KE, Schaefer ML, Muglia LM, Vogt SK, Weninger SC, Majzoub JA, Muglia LJ. Dissecting adrenal and behavioral responses to stress by targeted gene inactivation in mice. Stress 2003; 6:121-5. [PMID: 12775331 DOI: 10.1080/1025389031000116460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To define the molecular pathways modulating adrenal and behavioral responses to stress, we have generated mice with inactivation of hypothalamic neuropeptides and signaling pathways. Studies in mice deficient in corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) have revealed the essential role for CRH in adrenal glucocorticoid production in response to many physiological and psychological stressors. Immune system activation in CRH-deficient mice provides a unique exception to the necessity for CRH in stimulating adrenal glucocorticoid production. By analyzing mice deficient in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and CRH, we find that restoration of glucocorticoid output with inflammation is largely mediated by dysregulated IL-6 production. Current studies focus on identifying cellular and gene targets by which glucocorticoids regulate immune system function. In contrast to impaired adrenocortical responses to stress, CRH-deficient mice exhibit normal behavioral responses to stress. To determine signaling pathways that may contribute to the behavioral responses to stress, we have generated and analyzed mice deficient in adenylyl cyclase type 8 (AC8). AC8 deficient mice have intact adrenocortical responses to stress, but an inability to undergo stress-induced alterations in behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judson A Brewer
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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35
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Finn DA, Rutledge-Gorman MT, Crabbe JC. Genetic animal models of anxiety. Neurogenetics 2003; 4:109-35. [PMID: 12687420 DOI: 10.1007/s10048-003-0143-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2002] [Accepted: 12/30/2002] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The focus of this review is on progress achieved in identifying specific genes conferring risk for anxiety disorders through the use of genetic animal models. We discuss gene-finding studies as well as those manipulating a candidate gene. Both human and animal studies thus far support the genetic complexity of anxiety. Clinical manifestations of these diseases are likely related to multiple genes. While different anxiety disorders and anxiety-related traits all appear to be genetically influenced, it has been difficult to ascertain genetic influences in common. Mouse studies have provisionally mapped several loci harboring genes that affect anxiety-related behavior. The growing array of mutant mice is providing valuable information about how genes and environment interact to affect anxious behavior via multiple neuropharmacological pathways. Classical genetic methods such as artificial selection of rodents for high or low anxiety are being employed. Expression array technologies have as yet not been employed, but can be expected to implicate novel candidates and neurobiological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Finn
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239 USA.
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36
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Imamura T, Asada M, Vogt SK, Rudnick DA, Lowe ME, Muglia LJ. Protection from pancreatitis by the zymogen granule membrane protein integral membrane-associated protein-1. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:50725-33. [PMID: 12401800 PMCID: PMC3701954 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m204159200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatitis is a common disease with substantial morbidity and mortality. To better understand the mechanisms conferring sensitivity or resistance to pancreatitis, we have initiated the analysis of novel acinar cell proteins. Integral membrane-associated protein-1 (Itmap1) is a CUB (complement subcomponents C1r/C1s, sea urchin Uegf protein, bone morphogenetic protein-1) and zona pellucida (ZP) domain-containing protein we find prominently expressed in pancreatic acinar cells. Within the acinar cell, Itmap1 localizes to zymogen granule membranes. Although roles in epithelial polarity, granule assembly, and mucosal protection have been postulated for CUB/ZP proteins, in vivo functions for these molecules have not been proven. To determine the function of Itmap1, we generated Itmap1-deficient mice. Itmap1(-/-) mice demonstrate increased severity of secretagogue- and diet-induced pancreatitis in comparison to Itmap1(+/+) mice. In contrast to previous animal models exhibiting altered severity of pancreatitis, Itmap1 deficiency results in impaired activation of trypsin, an enzyme believed critical for initiating a cascade of digestive zymogen activation during pancreatitis. Itmap1 deficiency does not alter zymogen granule size, appearance, or the composition of zymogen granule contents. Our results demonstrate that Itmap1 plays an essential role in trypsinogen activation and that both impaired and augmented trypsinogen activation can be associated with increased severity of pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Louis J. Muglia
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: Washington University School of Medicine, Box 8208, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110. Tel.: 314-286-2847; Fax: 314-286-2893;
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37
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Malagoli D, Mandrioli M, Ottaviani E. Cloning and characterisation of a procorticotrophin-releasing hormone in the IZD-MB-0503 immunocyte line from the insect Mamestra brassicae. Peptides 2002; 23:1829-36. [PMID: 12383871 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(02)00140-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The cloning and characterisation of a procorticotrophin-releasing hormone (proCRH) and the related CRH fragment in the IZD-MB-0503 cell line from the leptidopteran Mamestra brassicae were performed. PCR amplification of the genomic DNA reveals a fragment of 276 bp, while inverse PCR shows the presence of a gene consisting of 1153 bp. The comparison of the insect genomic proCRH gene with proCRH cDNA obtained by RACE shows the presence of three introns. There was a 61% identity with the corresponding coding sequence in Tilapia mossambica, and a 65.2% identity with the human proCRH coding sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Malagoli
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi, 213/D-41100 Modena, Italy
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38
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Abstract
Glucocorticoids inhibit corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) production in the hypothalamus but stimulate production from the placenta. We have sought to identify the key elements regulating the CRH gene. Mouse pituitary tumour-derived cells (AtT20 cells) were used in deletion and mutational analyses of the CRH promoter. Two cAMP responsive elements were identified: (I) a consensus cAMP response element (CRE) and (II) a previously unrecognised caudal-type homeobox response element (CDXRE). Glucocorticoids inhibit only the component of cAMP-stimulation occurring via the CRE through an action involving a negative glucocorticoid response element (nGRE). We also identified two regions that, in the absence of the nGRE, can be stimulated by glucocorticoids: (I) the CRE and (II) a region between -213 and -99 bps. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) identified binding of the transcription factors CREB and Fos at the CRE in AtT20 cells while CREB and cJun were detected in placental cells. Tissue specific expression of transcription factors may mediate regulation of the CRH gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce R King
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, John Hunter Hospital, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2310, Australia
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39
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Brewer JA, Kanagawa O, Sleckman BP, Muglia LJ. Thymocyte apoptosis induced by T cell activation is mediated by glucocorticoids in vivo. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2002; 169:1837-43. [PMID: 12165507 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.169.4.1837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids, administered in pharmacological doses, potently modulate immune system function and are a mainstay therapy for many common human diseases. Physiologic production of glucocorticoids may play a role in optimization of the immune repertoire both centrally and peripherally. Possible effects include alteration of lymphocyte development and down-regulation of cytokine responses, but essential roles remain unclear. To determine the part that endogenous glucocorticoids play in thymocyte development, we used fetal liver from mice lacking the glucocorticoid receptor GRko for immunological reconstitution of lethally irradiated wild-type (WT) mice. We find normal numbers and subset distribution of GRko thymocytes. GRko thymocytes also exhibit similar sensitivity to apoptosis induced by activating anti-CD3epsilon Ab as WT thymocytes in vitro. Surprisingly, GRko thymocytes are significantly more resistant than WT thymocytes to anti-CD3epsilon-mediated thymocyte apoptosis in vivo. Consistent with this finding, in vivo TCR complex activation induces sustained high levels of glucocorticoids that correlate strongly with thymocyte apoptosis in WT mice. We find that while direct engagement of the TCR complex may cause death of a subset of thymocytes, glucocorticoids are required for deletion of the majority of thymocytes. Thus, TCR stimulation by Ab administration may more accurately reflect polyclonal T cell activation than negative selection in vivo.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Antibodies/pharmacology
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/immunology
- Apoptosis/physiology
- CD3 Complex
- Corticosterone/blood
- Dexamethasone/pharmacology
- Female
- Fetus/cytology
- Fetus/immunology
- Fetus/metabolism
- Glucocorticoids/metabolism
- Humans
- Liver/cytology
- Liver/immunology
- Liver/metabolism
- Lung/abnormalities
- Lymphocyte Activation
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/metabolism
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/deficiency
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/genetics
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/cytology
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Judson A Brewer
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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40
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Brewer JA, Sleckman BP, Swat W, Muglia LJ. Green fluorescent protein-glucocorticoid receptor knockin mice reveal dynamic receptor modulation during thymocyte development. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2002; 169:1309-18. [PMID: 12133953 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.169.3.1309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
To delineate the cellular targets and mechanisms by which glucocorticoids (GCs) exert their actions, we generated mice in which a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-GC receptor (GR) fusion gene is knocked into the GR locus. In these mice, the GFP-GR protein, which is functionally indistinguishable from endogenous GR, allows the tracking and quantitation of GR expression in single living cells. In GFP-GR thymus, GR expression is uniform among embryonic thymocyte subpopulations but gradually matures over a 3-wk period after birth. In the adult, GR is specifically induced to high levels in CD25(+)CD4(-)CD8(-) thymocytes and returns to basal levels in CD4(+)CD8(+) thymocytes of wild-type and positively selecting female HY TCR-transgenic mice, but not negatively selecting male HY TCR-transgenic mice. In GFP-GR/recombinase-activating gene 2(-/-) thymocytes, GR expression is down-regulated by pre-TCR complex stimulation. Additionally, relative GR expression is dissociated from GC-induced apoptosis in vivo. Results from these studies define differential GR expression throughout ontogeny, suggest pre-TCR activation as a specific mechanism of GR down-regulation, define immature CD8(+) thymocytes as novel apoptosis-sensitive GC targets, and separate receptor abundance from susceptibility to apoptosis across thymocyte populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judson A Brewer
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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41
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Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), the major regulator of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, has a wide spectrum of actions within the central nervous system and the periphery. The development and use of Crh knockout mice (Crh-/-) has been an important tool for addressing the physiologic and pathologic roles of CRH. This review describes the generation and characterization ofCrh -deficient mice as well as the use of these mice to study the role of CRH in maternal and fetal HPA axes development and in the regulation of the adult HPA axis and behavior. The review concludes with information about recently discovered CRH-related peptides and their possible roles in some of the functions thought initially to be mediated by CRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Venihaki
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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42
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Laurent V, Kimble A, Peng B, Zhu P, Pintar JE, Steiner DF, Lindberg I. Mortality in 7B2 null mice can be rescued by adrenalectomy: involvement of dopamine in ACTH hypersecretion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2002; 99:3087-92. [PMID: 11854475 PMCID: PMC122477 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.261715099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The serine protease prohormone convertase 2 (PC2), principally involved in the processing of polypeptide hormone precursors in neuroendocrine tissues, requires interaction with the neuroendocrine protein 7B2 to generate an enzymatically active form. 7B2 null mice express no PC2 activity and release large quantities of uncleaved ACTH, resulting in a lethal endocrine condition that resembles pituitary Cushing's (Westphal, C. H., Muller, L., Zhou, A., Bonner-Weir, S., Schambelan, M., Steiner, D. F., Lindberg, I. & Leder, P. (1999) Cell 96, 689). Here, we have compared the 7B2 and PC2 null mouse models to determine why the 7B2 null, but not the PC2 null, exhibits a lethal disease state. Both 7B2 and PC2 nulls contained highly elevated pituitary adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH); the neurointermediate lobe content of ACTH in 7B2 nulls was 13-fold higher than in WT mice; that of the PC2 null was 65-fold higher. However, circulating ACTH levels were much higher in the 7B2 null than in the PC2 null. Because hypothalamic inhibitory dopaminergic control represents the major influence on intermediate lobe proopiomelanocortin-derived peptide secretion, dopamine levels were measured, and they revealed that 7B2 null pituitaries contained only one-fourth of WT pituitary dopamine. Adrenalectomized 7B2 null animals survived past the usual time of death at 5 weeks; a month after adrenalectomy, they exhibited normal levels of pituitary dopamine, circulating ACTH, and corticosterone. Elevated corticosterone, therefore, seems to play a central role in the lethal phenotype of the 7B2 null, whereas a 7B2-mediated dopaminergic deficiency state may be involved in the actual ACTH hypersecretion phenomenon. Interestingly, adrenalectomized 7B2 nulls also developed unexpectedly severe obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Laurent
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112-2223, USA
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43
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D’Agostino D, Cordle RA, Kullman J, Erlanson-Albertsson C, Muglia LJ, Lowe ME. Decreased postnatal survival and altered body weight regulation in procolipase-deficient mice. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:7170-7. [PMID: 11751900 PMCID: PMC2528063 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m108328200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro, pancreatic triglyceride lipase requires colipase to restore activity in the presence of inhibitors, like bile acids. Presumably, colipase performs the same function in vivo, but little data supports that notion. Other studies suggest that colipase or its proform, procolipase, may have additional functions in appetite regulation or in fat digestion during the newborn period when pancreatic triglyceride lipase is not expressed. To identify the physiological role of procolipase, we created a mouse model of procolipase deficiency. The Clps-/- mice appeared normal at birth, but unexpectedly 60% died within the first 2 weeks of life. The survivors had fat malabsorption as newborns and as adults, but only when fed a high fat diet. On a low fat diet, the Clps-/- mice did not have steatorrhea. The Clps-/- pups had impaired weight gain and weighed 30% less than Clps+/+ or Clps+/- littermates. After weaning, the Clps-/- mice had normal rate of weight gain, but they maintained a reduced body weight compared with normal littermates even on a low fat diet. Despite the reduced body weight, the Clps-/- mice had a normal body temperature. To maintain their weight gain in the presence of steatorrhea, the Clps-/- mice had hyperphagia on a high fat diet. Clps-/- mice had normal intake on a low fat diet. We conclude that, in addition to its critical role in fat digestion, procolipase has essential functions in postnatal development and in regulating body weight set point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dymphna D’Agostino
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Richard A. Cordle
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - John Kullman
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | | | - Louis J. Muglia
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Mark E. Lowe
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
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Muglia LJ, Jacobson L, Weninger SC, Karalis KP, Jeong K, Majzoub JA. The physiology of corticotropin-releasing hormone deficiency in mice. Peptides 2001; 22:725-31. [PMID: 11337085 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(01)00385-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A review of the generation and characterization of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-deficient mice is presented. The studies summarized demonstrate the central role of CRH in the pituitary-adrenal axis response to stress, circadian stimulation, and glucocorticoid withdrawal. Additionally, pro-inflammatory actions of CRH at sites of local inflammation are given further support. In contrast, behavioral effects during stress that had been ascribed to CRH action are not altered in CRH-deficient mice. The normal behavioral response to stress in CRH-deficient mice strongly suggests the importance of other, possibly as yet undiscovered, CRH-like molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Muglia
- Departments of Pediatrics, Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Abstract
Immunological and cellular stress signals trigger the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the spleen, thymus and inflamed tissue. In vivo and in vitro studies generally suggest that peripheral, immune CRH has pro-inflammatory effects and acts in a paracrine manner by binding to CRH-R1 and CRH-R2 receptors on neighboring immune cells. However, it now seems likely that some of the suggested pro-inflammatory actions of CRH may be attributed to novel CRH-like peptides or to the related peptide, urocortin, which is also present in immune cells and has especially high affinity for CRH-R2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Baigent
- School of Animal and Microbial Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, RG6 6AJ, Reading, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
Urocortin is a potent regulator of cardiac function, with actions that are prolonged in experimental animals. These changes are mediated via binding to CRH receptors found in peripheral tissues. The diversity of actions of urocortin on behaviour, appetite, inflammation and the cardiovascular system suggest that this peptide may be an endogenous factor mediating actions previously attributed to CRH. The present review will focus on the recent understanding of mechanisms mediating the cardiovascular actions of urocortin and CRH reported to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Parkes
- Amylin Pharmaceuticals Inc., 9373 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
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Abstract
The hypothalmus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the immune system communicate at multiple levels: On the one hand, immune system-derived substances, such as interleukin-1, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and leukemia inhibitory factor can stimulate the HPA axis. On the other hand, HPA axis-derived substances, most importantly glucocorticoids, can modulate the immune response. Furthermore, factors that were originally thought to be restricted to the HPA axis have been found to be expressed by immune cells. Proteins belonging to the CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) family represent important examples of such hormones. In the early 1990s, it was shown that immunoreactive CRH was present at sites of chemically induced inflammation. Administration of anti-CRH antibodies reduced the degree of inflammation, pointing to a pro-inflammatory role of "peripheral" CRH. We and others could show that lymphocytes are one source of immunoreactive CRH; however, the antiserum used in our study as well as in previous reports crossreacted with urocortin, a newly discovered member of the CRH family. Using RT-PCR, we could clearly demonstrate that human lymphocytes expressed urocortin but not CRH mRNA. These results were confirmed by immunocytochemistry, employing urocortin- and CRH-specific antibodies, respectively. The possible functional roles of urocortin expression in the immune system are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Bamberger
- University Hospital Eppendorf, Department of Medicine, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
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Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-deficient (knockout (KO)) mice demonstrate severely impaired adrenal responses to restraint, ether, and fasting, and lack the normal diurnal glucocorticoid (GC) rhythm. Here, we summarize recent studies determining the role of CRH in augmenting plasma adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) concentration after glucocorticoid withdrawal and pituitary-adrenal axis stimulation in the context of inflammation. Even though GC insufficient, basal pituitary proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA, ACTH peptide content within the pituitary, and plasma ACTH concentrations are not elevated in CRH KO mice. POMC mRNA content in CRH KO mice increases following adrenalectomy, and this increase is reversed by GC, but not aldosterone, replacement. In marked contrast to the increase in POMC mRNA, plasma ACTH does not increase in the CRH KO mice following adrenalectomy. Administration of CRH to adrenalectomized CRH KO mice results in acute, robust ACTH secretion. Thus, loss of GC feedback can increase POMC gene expression in the pituitary, but CRH action is essential for increased secretion of ACTH into the circulation. While GC secretion is impaired in CRH KO mice after most stimuli, we have found near-normal GC responses to inflammation and systemic immune challenge. Studies in mice with CRH and IL-6 deficiency reveal that IL-6 is essential for activation of the pituitary-adrenal axis during inflammatory and other stressors in the absence of CRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Muglia
- Dept. of Pediatrics, Washington Univ. School Med., St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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Shi M, Yan X, Ryan DH, Harris RB. Identification of urocortin mRNA antisense transcripts in rat tissue. Brain Res Bull 2000; 53:317-24. [PMID: 11113586 DOI: 10.1016/s0361-9230(00)00349-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Urocortin (UCN) has 45% sequence homology with corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and binds to CRF receptors. We used reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to demonstrate the presence of UCN RNA in various brain regions and in peripheral tissues. Ribonuclease protection assay (RPA) using sense and antisense riboprobes demonstrated the presence of a naturally occurring antisense UCN RNA transcript in a number of tissues. Northern blot indicated that the antisense transcript was the same size as sense UCN. RPA, using probes that covered bases 1 to 560 of 579 bp sequence of rat UCN, indicated that the antisense sequence was complementary to sense UCN but did not contain an open reading frame. Sense and antisense UCN RNA were co-expressed in all tissues that contained levels of either transcript detectable by RPA. Sense RNA expression was greater than antisense in the midbrain, the two transcripts were expressed equally in the hypothalamus and antisense was expressed at higher levels than sense in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle. Antisense RNA expression was stress responsive, suggesting that it may play a role in regulating transcription or translation of UCN mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shi
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
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Bethin KE, Vogt SK, Muglia LJ. Interleukin-6 is an essential, corticotropin-releasing hormone-independent stimulator of the adrenal axis during immune system activation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2000; 97:9317-22. [PMID: 10922080 PMCID: PMC16865 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.97.16.9317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids play a critical role in control of the cytokine response after immune challenge. Conversely, cytokines modulate glucocorticoid production by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. To define the potency and mechanism of interleukin-6 (IL-6) for augmentation of adrenal function, we exploited mice deficient in corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), IL-6, or both. Mice deficient in CRH action demonstrate severely impaired glucocorticoid production in response to psychological and metabolic challenge, but near normal responses to stressors that activate the immune system. In this paper, we demonstrate that IL-6 is essential for activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis during immunological challenge in the absence of hypothalamic input from CRH. IL-6 receptors are present on pituitary corticotrophs and adrenocortical cells, consistent with the ability of IL-6 to bypass CRH in augmentation of adrenal function. Plasma corticosterone levels after bacterial lipopolysaccharide injection in mice deficient in CRH or IL-6 were significantly lower than in wild-type mice but significantly greater than in mice deficient in both CRH and IL-6. A second model of immune system activation using 2C11, an antibody to the T cell receptor, demonstrated a normal corticosterone response in mice deficient in CRH or IL-6, but a markedly decreased response in mice deficient in both CRH and IL-6. Surprisingly, the relative contribution of IL-6 for modulation of the adrenal response to stress is greater in female than in male mice. This gender-specific difference in IL-6 action in mice suggests the utility of further analysis of IL-6 in determining the female predominance seen in many human inflammatory/autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Bethin
- Departments of Pediatrics, Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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