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Fabunmi OA, Dludla PV, Nkambule BB. High-dose oral contraceptives induce hyperinsulinemia without altering immune activation in diet-induced obesity which persists even following a dietary low-fat diet intervention. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104234. [PMID: 38479054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are known to cause weight gain and alter metabolic and immunological pathways. However, modifications in arterial or venous thrombotic risk profiles of women of reproductive ages on COC remain unclear. The study aimed at assessing the impact of COC on immune activation in diet-induced obesity. We further established whether the dietary intervention of switching from a high-fat diet (HFD) to a low-fat diet (LFD) attenuates immunological responses. Twenty (n=20) five-week-old female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into two diet groups of HFD (n=15) and LFD (n=5) and were monitored for eight weeks. After eight weeks, animals in the HFD group switched diets to LFD and were randomly assigned to receive high-dose COC (HCOC) or low-dose COC (LCOC) for six weeks. Animals on HFD significantly gained weight and had a higher lee index when compared to the LFD group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the triglyceride-glucose index, insulin, and other metabolic parameters also increased in the HFD group compared to the LFD group (p < 0.001). Consistently, the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were elevated in the HFD group when compared to the LFD group (p < 0.05). Upon switching from a high-fat to a low-fat diet, insulin levels persistently increased in animals receiving HCOC treatment compared to the LFD and HFD/LFD groups (p < 0.05). Thus, in a rat model of HFD-feeding, short-term HCOC treatment induces long-term metabolic dysregulation, which persists despite dietary intervention. However, further studies are recommended to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyesanmi A Fabunmi
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences (SLMMS), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; Health-awareness, Exercise and Cardio-immunologic Research Unit (HECIRU), Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti 5363, Nigeria.
| | - Phiwayinkosi V Dludla
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3880, South Africa
| | - Bongani B Nkambule
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences (SLMMS), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa.
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2
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Ainslie RJ, Simitsidellis I, Kirkwood PM, Gibson DA. RISING STARS: Androgens and immune cell function. J Endocrinol 2024; 261:e230398. [PMID: 38579776 PMCID: PMC11103679 DOI: 10.1530/joe-23-0398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Androgens can modulate immune cell function and may contribute to differences in the prevalence and severity of common inflammatory conditions. Although most immune cells are androgen targets, our understanding of how changes in androgen bioavailability can affect immune responses is incomplete. Androgens alter immune cell composition, phenotype, and activation by modulating the expression and secretion of inflammatory mediators or by altering the development and maturation of immune cell precursors. Androgens are generally associated with having suppressive effects on the immune system, but their impacts are cell and tissue context-dependent and can be highly nuanced even within immune cell subsets. In response to androgens, innate immune cells such as neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages increase the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and decrease nitric oxide production. Androgens promote the differentiation of T cell subsets and reduce the production of inflammatory mediators, such as IFNG, IL-4 and IL-5. Additionally, androgens/androgen receptor can promote the maturation of B cells. Thus, androgens can be considered as immunomodulatory agents, but further work is required to understand the precise molecular pathways that are regulated at the intersection between endocrine and inflammatory signals. This narrative review focusses on summarising our current understanding of how androgens can alter immune cell function and how this might affect inflammatory responses in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Ainslie
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Phoebe M Kirkwood
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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3
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Notbohm HL, Umlauff L, Bloch W, Schumann M. Comparison of the cytokine responses to acute strength exercise between oral contraceptive users and naturally cycling women. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:257-267. [PMID: 37453973 PMCID: PMC10786951 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cytokines are released as part of an inflammatory reaction in response to strength exercise to initiate muscle repair and morphological adaptations. Whether hormonal fluctuations induced by the menstrual cycle or oral contraceptives affect inflammatory responses to strength exercise remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to compare the response of cytokines after acute strength exercise in naturally menstruating women and oral contraceptive users. METHODS Naturally menstruating women (MC, n = 13, 24 ± 4 years, weekly strength training: 4.3 ± 1.7 h) and women using a monophasic combined pill (> 9 months) (OC, n = 8, 22 ± 3 years, weekly strength training: 4.5 ± 1.9 h) were recruited. A one-repetition-maximum (1RM) test and strength exercise in the squat (4 × 10 repetitions, 70%1RM) was performed in the early follicular phase or pill free interval. Concentrations of oestradiol, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 were assessed before (pre), directly after (post) and 24 h after (post24) strength exercise. RESULTS IL-1ra increased from pre to post (+ 51.1 ± 59.4%, p = 0.189) and statistically decreased from post to post24 (- 20.5 ± 13.5%, p = 0.011) only in OC. Additionally, IL-1β statistically decreased from post to post24 (- 39.6 ± 23.0%, p = 0.044) only in OC. There was an interaction effect for IL-1β (p = 0.038) and concentrations were statistically decreased at post24 in OC compared to MC (p = 0.05). IL-8 increased across both groups from post to post24 (+ 66.6 ± 96.3%, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION We showed a differential regulation of IL-1β and IL-1ra between OC users in the pill-free interval and naturally cycling women 24 h after strength exercise, while there was no effect on other cytokines. Whether this is associated with previously shown compromised morphological adaptations remains to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L Notbohm
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, German Sport University, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lisa Umlauff
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, German Sport University, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wilhelm Bloch
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, German Sport University, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Moritz Schumann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, German Sport University, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany.
- Division of Training and Movement Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
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Grobler T, Opperman M, Bester J, Swanepoel AC, du Preez I. Metabolomic Profiling of Hormonal Contraceptive Use in Young Females Using a Commercially Available LC-MS/MS Kit. Metabolites 2023; 13:1092. [PMID: 37887417 PMCID: PMC10609319 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13101092] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral hormonal contraceptive users carry the risk of venous thrombosis and increased mortality. This study aimed to comprehensively profile the serum metabolome of participants using a combination of drospirenone (DRSP) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) containing oral contraceptives (COCs). The MxP Quant 500 kit for liquid chromatography mass tandem spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to analyse the 22 controls and 44 COC users (22 on a low EE dose (DRSP/20EE) and 22 on a higher EE dose (DRSP/30EE)). The kit's results were compared to our internally developed untargeted and targeted metabolomics methods previously applied to this cohort. Of the 630 metabolites included in the method, 277 provided desirable results (consistently detected above their detection limits), and of these, 5 had p-values < 0.05, including betaine, glutamine, cortisol, glycine, and choline. Notably, these variations were observed between the control and COC groups, rather than among the two COC groups. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis revealed 49 compounds with VIP values ≥ 1, including amino acids and their derivatives, ceramides, phosphatidylcholines, and triglycerides, among others. Ten differential compounds were consistent with our previous studies, reinforcing the notion of COCs inducing a prothrombotic state and increased oxidative stress. Although only a limited number of compounds were deemed usable, these were quantified with high reliability and facilitated the identification of meaningful biological differences among the sample groups. In addition to substantiating known drug-induced variations, new hypotheses were also generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Grobler
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Monique Opperman
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Janette Bester
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Albe Carina Swanepoel
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Ilse du Preez
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
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Dos Santos DC, de Souza Bittencout R, Arêas ID, Pena LSC, Almeida CF, de Brito Guimarães BC, Dórea RSDM, Correia TML, Júnior MNS, Morbeck LLB, Dos Santos TC, Souza CLS, de Souza SI, de Jesus Soares T, Yatsuda R, Campos GB, Marques LM. Effects of 5α-dihydrotestosterone on the modulation of monocyte/macrophage response to Staphylococcus aureus: an in vitro study. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:15. [PMID: 37004108 PMCID: PMC10065996 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a pathogen responsible for a wide range of clinical manifestations and potentially fatal conditions. There is a paucity of information on the influence of androgens in the immune response to S. aureus infection. In this study, we evaluated the influence of the hormone 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) and human peripheral blood monocytes (HPBMs) induced by S. aureus. METHODS An in vitro model of MPMs from BALB/c sham males, orchiectomised (OQX) males, and females was used. Cells were inoculated with 10 μL of S. aureus, phage-type 80 or sterile saline (control) for 6 h. The MPMs of OQX males and females were pre-treated with 100 μL of 10-2 M DHT for 24 h before inoculation with S. aureus. The concentration of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10; total nitrites (NO-2); and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were measured in the supernatant of MPM cultures. In addition, the toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) genes that are involved in immune responses were analysed. For the in vitro model of HPBMs, nine men and nine women of childbearing age were selected and HPBMs were isolated from samples of the volunteers' peripheral blood. In women, blood was collected during the periovulatory period. The HPBMs were inoculated with S. aureus for 6 h and the supernatant was collected for the analysis of cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12; and GM-CSF, NO-2, and H2O2. The HPBMs were then removed for the analysis of 84 genes involved in the host's response to bacterial infections by RT-PCR array. GraphPad was used for statistical analysis with a p value < 0.05. RESULTS Our data demonstrated that MPMs from sham males inoculated with S. aureus displayed higher concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and lower concentrations of IL-10, NO-2, and H2O2 when compared with MPMs from OQX males and females. A similar result was observed in the HPBMs of men when compared with those of women. Previous treatment with DHT in women HPBMs increased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased the levels of IL-10, NO-2, and H2O2. The analysis of gene expression showed that DHT increased the activity of the TLR2 and NF-kB pathways in both MPMs and HPBMs. CONCLUSIONS We found that DHT acts as an inflammatory modulator in the monocyte/macrophage response induced by S. aureus and females exhibit a better immune defence response against this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Déborah Cruz Dos Santos
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Rafaela de Souza Bittencout
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Iago Dórea Arêas
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Larissa Silva C Pena
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Carolline Florentino Almeida
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Bruna Carolina de Brito Guimarães
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Rafael Santos Dantas Miranda Dórea
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Thiago Macêdo Lopes Correia
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | | | - Lorena Lôbo Brito Morbeck
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Talita Costa Dos Santos
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Clarissa Leal S Souza
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | | | - Telma de Jesus Soares
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Regiane Yatsuda
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Barreto Campos
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil
- University of Santa Cruz (UESC), Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Lucas Miranda Marques
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Rua Hormindo Barros, 58, Candeias, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 45029-094, Brazil.
- University of Santa Cruz (UESC), Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, Brazil.
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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6
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Chakraborty B, Byemerwa J, Krebs T, Lim F, Chang CY, McDonnell DP. Estrogen Receptor Signaling in the Immune System. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:117-141. [PMID: 35709009 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The immune system functions in a sexually dimorphic manner, with females exhibiting more robust immune responses than males. However, how female sex hormones affect immune function in normal homeostasis and in autoimmunity is poorly understood. In this review, we discuss how estrogens affect innate and adaptive immune cell activity and how dysregulation of estrogen signaling underlies the pathobiology of some autoimmune diseases and cancers. The potential roles of the major circulating estrogens, and each of the 3 estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ, and G-protein coupled receptor) in the regulation of the activity of different immune cells are considered. This provides the framework for a discussion of the impact of ER modulators (aromatase inhibitors, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and selective estrogen receptor downregulators) on immunity. Synthesis of this information is timely given the considerable interest of late in defining the mechanistic basis of sex-biased responses/outcomes in patients with different cancers treated with immune checkpoint blockade. It will also be instructive with respect to the further development of ER modulators that modulate immunity in a therapeutically useful manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binita Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jovita Byemerwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Taylor Krebs
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Known Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Felicia Lim
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ching-Yi Chang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Donald P McDonnell
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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7
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Biological Assessment of the NO-Dependent Endothelial Function. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27227921. [PMID: 36432022 PMCID: PMC9698916 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is implicated in numerous physiological processes, including vascular homeostasis. Reduced NO bioavailability is a hallmark of endothelial dysfunction, a prequel to many cardiovascular diseases. Biomarkers of an early NO-dependent endothelial dysfunction obtained from routine venous blood sampling would be of great interest but are currently lacking. The direct measurement of circulating NO remains a challenge due by its high reactivity and short half-life. The current techniques measure stable products from the NO signaling pathway or metabolic end products of NO that do not accurately represent its bioavailability and, therefore, endothelial function per se. In this review, we will concentrate on an original technique of low temperature electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy capable to directly measure the 5-α-coordinated heme nitrosyl-hemoglobin in the T (tense) state (5-α-nitrosyl-hemoglobin or HbNO) obtained from fresh venous human erythrocytes. In humans, HbNO reflects the bioavailability of NO formed in the vasculature from vascular endothelial NOS or exogenous NO donors with minor contribution from erythrocyte NOS. The HbNO signal is directly correlated with the vascular endothelial function and inversely correlated with vascular oxidative stress. Pilot studies support the validity of HbNO measurements both for the detection of endothelial dysfunction in asymptomatic subjects and for the monitoring of such dysfunction in patients with known cardiovascular disease. The impact of therapies or the severity of diseases such as COVID-19 infection involving the endothelium could also be monitored and their incumbent risk of complications better predicted through serial measurements of HbNO.
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8
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Souza CLSE, Barbosa CD, Coelho HILN, Santos Júnior MN, Barbosa EN, Queiroz ÉC, Teles MF, Dos Santos DC, Bittencourt RS, Soares TDJ, Oliveira MV, Timenetsky J, Campos GB, Marques LM. Effects of 17β-Estradiol on Monocyte/Macrophage Response to Staphylococcus aureus: An In Vitro Study. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:701391. [PMID: 34336722 PMCID: PMC8317603 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.701391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
To describe how 17β-estradiol (E2) influence in the monocyte/macrophage response induced by S. aureus in in vitro models of murine peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) and human peripheral blood monocytes (HPBM). MPMs (2 x 105/ml) were isolated from sham (n=3) and ovariectomized (OVX) females (n = 3) and males (n = 3) after induction by thioglycolate. The MPMs obtained from OVX females and males were treated for 24 hours with 17β-estradiol (E2) (10-7 M), and after that, inoculation with S. aureus was carried out for 6 hours. The macrophages were collected and destined to evaluate the relative gene expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TLR2. For the in vitro model of HPBMs, six men and six women of childbearing age were selected and HPBMs were isolated from samples of the volunteers’ peripheral blood. In women, blood was collected both during menstruation and in the periovulatory period. HPBMs were inoculated with S. aureus for 6 hours and the supernatant was collected for analysis of cytokines by Luminex and the HPBMs were removed for analysis of 84 genes involved in the host’s response to bacterial infections by RT-PCR array. Previous treatment with E2 decreased the gene expression and production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 and decreased the expression of TLR2 tanto em MPMs quanto em HPBMs. The analysis of gene expression shows that E2 inhibited the NFκB pathway. It is suggested that 17β-estradiol acts as an immunoprotective in the monocyte/macrophage response induced by S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Leal Silva E Souza
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil.,Santo Agostinho School of Health (FASA), Santo Agostinho Colleges, Afya Educational, Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Camila Dutra Barbosa
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Hanna I L N Coelho
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Manoel N Santos Júnior
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil.,University of Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Elaine Novaes Barbosa
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Éllunny Chaves Queiroz
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Mauro Fernandes Teles
- Santo Agostinho School of Health (FASA), Santo Agostinho Colleges, Afya Educational, Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Déborah Cruz Dos Santos
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Souza Bittencourt
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Telma de Jesus Soares
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | | | - Jorge Timenetsky
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Barreto Campos
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
| | - Lucas Miranda Marques
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, Brazil.,University of Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus, Brazil.,Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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9
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Campesi I, Montella A, Franconi F. Human monocytes respond to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in a sex-dependent manner. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:580-588. [PMID: 34252202 PMCID: PMC9292909 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Monocytes play a critical role in inflammation and immune response, their activity being sex‐dependent. However, the basis of sex differences is not well understood. Therefore, we investigated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) effects on tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) release, autophagy, and chemotaxis in freshly isolated monocytes from healthy young men and women. In basal conditions, male and female monocytes had similar TNF‐α release, chemotaxis, and estrogen receptors (ER‐α) and ER‐β expression, while the LC3II/I ratio was significantly higher in males. LPS treatment induced qualitative and quantitative sex differences. It reduced autophagy and increased TNF‐α release only in male monocytes, while, chemotaxis was significantly influenced only in female cells. Moreover, it reduced the expression of ER‐α only in female cells, while ER‐β expression was reduced in both sexes, but more markedly in female cells. Finally, the interplay between LPS treatment and 17‐β‐estradiol (E2) was present only in female cells. Globally, these findings expand the concept that sex plays a role in regulating monocytes' functions, being sex differences cell‐ and parameter‐specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Laboratorio Nazionale di Medicina e Farmacologia di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture Biosistemi, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Montella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Laboratorio Nazionale di Medicina e Farmacologia di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture Biosistemi, Sassari, Italy
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10
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Human Umbilical Cord: Information Mine in Sex-Specific Medicine. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11010052. [PMID: 33451112 PMCID: PMC7828611 DOI: 10.3390/life11010052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological differences between sexes should be considered in all stages of research, as sexual dimorphism starts in utero leading to sex-specific fetal programming. In numerous biomedical fields, there is still a lack of stratification by sex despite primary cultured cells retaining memory of the sex and of the donor. The sex of donors in biological research must be known because variations in cells and cellular components can be used as endpoints, biomarkers and/or targets of pharmacological studies. This selective review focuses on the current findings regarding sex differences observed in the umbilical cord, a widely used source of research samples, both in the blood and in the circulating cells, as well as in the different cellular models obtainable from it. Moreover, an overview on sex differences in fetal programming is reported. As it emerges that the sex variable is still often forgotten in experimental models, we suggest that it should be mandatory to adopt sex-oriented research, because only awareness of these issues can lead to innovative research.
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Campesi I, Montella A, Sotgiu G, Dore S, Carru C, Zinellu A, Palermo M, Franconi F. Combined oral contraceptives modify the effect of smoking on inflammatory cellular indexes and endothelial function in healthy subjects. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 891:173762. [PMID: 33253680 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Little information is available on the influence of sex in combination with smoking habits and combined oral contraceptives (COC) use on cellular inflammatory indexes such as neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NRL (dNLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), mean platelet volume/platelet count (MPV/PLT), aggregate inflammation systemic index (AISI), and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), which are cost-effective biomarkers to assessing inflammation. Therefore, the effect of COC was studied alone or in association with smoking and compared with results from healthy COC-free women and men. Furthermore, the association of cellular inflammatory indexes with endothelial function (arginine (Arg), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde MDA) biomarkers was evaluated. Blood was collected for hematological and biochemical analysis, which were used to calculate PLR, NLR, dNLR, MLR, MPV/PLT, AISI, and SIRI. Serum samples were assayed for Arg, ADMA, SDMA, and MDA. Monocytes, MLR, SIRI, and MPV/PLT were higher in men, while PLT count was higher in women. COC use increased lymphocytes and lowered PLR and MLR. Smoking reduced sexually divergent parameters, especially in COC users: smoking and non-smoking COC-free women displayed six divergent parameters, while COC users displayed only two (monocytes and MPV). In addition, COC affected endothelial function, reducing ADMA and Arg. Moreover, COC-free women had lower Arg levels than men. In conclusion, COC use strongly influence the effects of tobacco smoking, which are sex and parameter specific. Further, these data stress that COC use and smoking attitude select different cohorts indicating that sex and gender studies need intersectionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy; Laboratorio Nazionale di Farmacologia e Medicina di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture Biosistemi, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Andrea Montella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy; Unità Operativa di Genetica e Biologia Dello Sviluppo, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche e Sperimentali, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Simone Dore
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche e Sperimentali, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ciriaco Carru
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Mario Palermo
- Unità Operativa di Endocrinologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Laboratorio Nazionale di Farmacologia e Medicina di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture Biosistemi, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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12
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Becerra-Diaz M, Song M, Heller N. Androgen and Androgen Receptors as Regulators of Monocyte and Macrophage Biology in the Healthy and Diseased Lung. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1698. [PMID: 32849595 PMCID: PMC7426504 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens, the predominant male sex hormones, drive the development and maintenance of male characteristics by binding to androgen receptor (AR). As androgens are systemically distributed throughout the whole organism, they affect many tissues and cell types in addition to those in male sexual organs. It is now clear that the immune system is a target of androgen action. In the lungs, many immune cells express ARs and are responsive to androgens. In this review, we describe the effects of androgens and ARs on lung myeloid immune cells-monocytes and macrophages-as they relate to health and disease. In particular, we highlight the effect of androgens on lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung fibrosis. We also discuss the therapeutic use of androgens and how circulating androgens correlate with lung disease. In addition to human studies, we also discuss how mouse models have helped to uncover the effect of androgens on monocytes and macrophages in lung disease. Although the role of estrogen and other female hormones has been broadly analyzed in the literature, we focus on the new perspectives of androgens as modulators of the immune system that target myeloid cells during lung inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nicola Heller
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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Campesi I, Milella L, Palermo M, Sotgiu G, Reggiardo G, Franconi F. Cigarette smoking affects the differences between male and female phenotypes. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:2998-3010. [PMID: 32655825 PMCID: PMC7344104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex-gender medicine focuses on differences and similarities in health and disease between men and women. The present study focused on the existence of male and female phenotypes when routine demographic, biochemical and haematological data are considered and aimed to determine the influence of smoking on phenotypes and evaluate the role of body weight on sex-gender differences in view of the fact that some of them can be utilized as biomarkers of diagnosis, diseases and therapeutic response. METHODS Eighty-five healthy young adult men (27 smokers and 58 non-smokers) and 85 women (32 smokers and 53 non-smokers) well matched for age were enrolled. 31 haematochemical parameters were measured and data were analysed before and after normalization for body weight applying the two-way analysis of variance and principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS In non-smoking cohorts, there were numerous sex-gender differences and PCA analysis distinguished two different phenotypes: males and females. Body weight normalization induced qualitatively and quantitatively changes, but male and female phenotypes were still well evident. Smoking influenced numerous parameters and PCA analysis evidenced that these changes led to the abolition of male and female phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Personalized medicine has the goals to study modification of markers profile in the single individual, which is strongly influenced by sex-gender and smoking habit. In non-smokers, male and female phenotypes are present independently from the quantitation method used. In smokers only one phenotype is present. These results suggest that smoking and sex-gender should be considered as an independent variable in clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di SassariViale San Pietro 43, Sassari, Italy
- Laboratorio di Medicina e Farmacologia di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture BiosistemiViale S. Pietro 43, Sassari, Italy
| | - Luigi Milella
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli Studi della BasilicataViale dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, Potenza, Italy
| | - Mario Palermo
- Unità Operativa di Endocrinologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di SassariViale S. Pietro 43/b, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche e SperimentaliViale S. Pietro 43, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giorgio Reggiardo
- Dipartimento di Biostatistica, Medi Service, World Trade CenterVia De Marini 1, Genova, Italy
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Laboratorio di Medicina e Farmacologia di Genere, Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture BiosistemiViale S. Pietro 43, Sassari, Italy
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Swanepoel AC, Bester J, Emmerson O, Soma P, Beukes D, van Reenen M, Loots DT, du Preez I. Serum Metabolome Changes in Relation to Prothrombotic State Induced by Combined Oral Contraceptives with Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2020; 24:404-414. [PMID: 32471328 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2020.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The association between hypercoagulability and use of drospirenone (DRSP) and ethinylestradiol (EE) containing combined oral contraceptives (COCs) is an important clinical concern. We have previously reported that the two formulations of DRSP combined with EE (namely, DRSP/20EE and DRSP/30EE) bring about a prothrombotic state in hemostatic traits of female users. We report here the serum metabolomic changes in the same study cohort in relation to the attendant prothrombotic state induced by COC use, thus offering new insights on the underlying biochemical mechanisms contributing to the altered coagulatory profile with COC use. A total of 78 healthy women participated in this study and were grouped as follows: control group not using oral contraceptives (n = 25), DRSP/20EE group (n = 27), and DRSP/30EE group (n = 26). Untargeted metabolomics revealed changes in amino acid concentrations, particularly a decrease in glycine and an increase in both cysteine and lanthionine in the serum, accompanied by variations in oxidative stress markers in the COC users compared with the controls. Of importance, this study is the first to link specific amino acid variations, serum metabolites, and the oxidative metabolic profile with DRSP/EE use. These molecular changes could be linked to specific biophysical coagulatory alterations observed in the same individuals. These new findings lend evidence on the metabolomic substrates of the prothrombotic state associated with COC use in women and informs future personalized/precision medicine research. Moreover, we underscore the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to evaluate venous thrombotic risk associated with COC use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albe Carina Swanepoel
- Department of Physiology and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Janette Bester
- Department of Physiology and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Odette Emmerson
- Department of Physiology and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Prashilla Soma
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Derylize Beukes
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Mari van Reenen
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Du Toit Loots
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Ilse du Preez
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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15
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Gardini ES, Chen GG, Fiacco S, Mernone L, Willi J, Turecki G, Ehlert U. Differential ESR1 Promoter Methylation in the Peripheral Blood-Findings from the Women 40+ Healthy Aging Study. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3654. [PMID: 32455834 PMCID: PMC7279168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Estrogen receptor α (ERα) contributes to maintaining biological processes preserving health during aging. DNA methylation changes of ERα gene (ESR1) were established as playing a direct role in the regulation of ERα levels. In this study, we hypothesized decreased DNA methylation of ESR1 associated with postmenopause, lower estradiol (E2) levels, and increased age among healthy middle-aged and older women. Methods We assessed DNA methylation of ESR1 promoter region from dried blood spots (DBSs) and E2 from saliva samples in 130 healthy women aged 40-73 years. Results We found that postmenopause and lower E2 levels were associated with lower DNA methylation of a distal regulatory region, but not with DNA methylation of proximal promoters. Conclusion Our results indicate that decreased methylation of ESR1 cytosine-phosphate-guanine island (CpGI) shore may be associated with conditions of lower E2 in older healthy women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena S. Gardini
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.S.G.); (S.F.); (L.M.); (J.W.)
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gary G. Chen
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; (G.G.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Serena Fiacco
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.S.G.); (S.F.); (L.M.); (J.W.)
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laura Mernone
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.S.G.); (S.F.); (L.M.); (J.W.)
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jasmine Willi
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.S.G.); (S.F.); (L.M.); (J.W.)
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; (G.G.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.S.G.); (S.F.); (L.M.); (J.W.)
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
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Franconi F, Campesi I, Colombo D, Antonini P. Sex-Gender Variable: Methodological Recommendations for Increasing Scientific Value of Clinical Studies. Cells 2019; 8:E476. [PMID: 31109006 PMCID: PMC6562815 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a clear sex-gender gap in the prevention and occurrence of diseases, and in the outcomes and treatments, which is relevant to women in the majority of cases. Attitudes concerning the enrollment of women in randomized clinical trials have changed over recent years. Despite this change, a gap still exists. This gap is linked to biological factors (sex) and psycho-social, cultural, and environmental factors (gender). These multidimensional, entangled, and interactive factors may influence the pharmacological response. Despite the fact that regulatory authorities recognize the importance of sex and gender, there is a paucity of research focusing on the racial/ethnic, socio-economic, psycho-social, and environmental factors that perpetuate disparities. Research and clinical practice must incorporate all of these factors to arrive at an intersectional and system-scenario perspective. We advocate for scientifically rigorous evaluations of the interplay between sex and gender as key factors in performing clinical trials, which are more adherent to real-life. This review proposes a set of 12 rules to improve clinical research for integrating sex-gender into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Laboratory of Sex-gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Laboratory of Sex-gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Delia Colombo
- Value and Access Head, Novartis Italia, 21040 Origgio, Italy.
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Pepe G, Locati M, Della Torre S, Mornata F, Cignarella A, Maggi A, Vegeto E. The estrogen-macrophage interplay in the homeostasis of the female reproductive tract. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 24:652-672. [PMID: 30256960 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens are known to orchestrate reproductive events and to regulate the immune system during infections and following tissue damage. Recent findings suggest that, in the absence of any danger signal, estrogens trigger the physiological expansion and functional specialization of macrophages, which are immune cells that populate the female reproductive tract (FRT) and are increasingly being recognized to participate in tissue homeostasis beyond their immune activity against infections. Although estrogens are the only female gonadal hormones that directly target macrophages, a comprehensive view of this endocrine-immune communication and its involvement in the FRT is still missing. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent accomplishments encourage a revision of the literature on the ability of macrophages to respond to estrogens and induce tissue-specific functions required for reproductive events, with the aim to envision macrophages as key players in FRT homeostasis and mediators of the regenerative and trophic actions of estrogens. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a systematic search using PubMed and Ovid for human, animal (rodents) and cellular studies published until 2018 on estrogen action in macrophages and the activity of these cells in the FRT. OUTCOMES Our search identified the remarkable ability of macrophages to activate biochemical processes in response to estrogens in cell culture experiments. The distribution at specific locations, interaction with selected cells and acquisition of distinct phenotypes of macrophages in the FRT, as well as the cyclic renewal of these properties at each ovarian cycle, demonstrate the involvement of these cells in the homeostasis of reproductive events. Moreover, current evidence suggests an association between estrogen-macrophage signaling and the generation of a tolerant and regenerative environment in the FRT, although a causative link is still missing. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Dysregulation of the functions and estrogen responsiveness of FRT macrophages may be involved in infertility and estrogen- and macrophage-dependent gynecological diseases, such as ovarian cancer and endometriosis. Thus, more research is needed on the physiology and pharmacological control of this endocrine-immune interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Pepe
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Locati
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Segrate, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, via fratelli Cervi, Segrate, Italy
| | - Sara Della Torre
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Mornata
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Cignarella
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Largo Meneghetti 2, Padua, Italy
| | - Adriana Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vegeto
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
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A Repeated Measures Pilot Comparison of Trajectories of Fluctuating Endogenous Hormones in Young Women with Traumatic Brain Injury, Healthy Controls. Behav Neurol 2019; 2019:7694503. [PMID: 30891100 PMCID: PMC6390250 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7694503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare baseline and 72-hour hormone levels in women with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and controls. Setting Hospital emergency department. Participants 21 women ages 18-35 with TBI and 21 controls. Design Repeated measures. Main Measures Serum samples at baseline and 72 hours; immunoassays for estradiol (E2), progesterone (PRO), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and cortisol (CORT); and health history. Results Women with TBI had lower E2 (p = 0.042) and higher CORT (p = 0.028) levels over time. Lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GSC) and OCs were associated with lower FSH (GCS p = 0.021; OCs p = 0.016) and higher CORT (GCS p = 0.001; OCs p = 0.008). Conclusion Acute TBI may suppress E2 and increase CORT in young women. OCs appeared to independently affect CORT and FSH responses. Future work is needed with a larger sample to characterize TBI effects on women's endogenous hormone response to injury and OC use's effects on post-TBI stress response and gonadal function, as well as secondary injury.
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Michels KA, Brinton LA, Pfeiffer RM, Trabert B. Oral Contraceptive Use and Risks of Cancer in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. Am J Epidemiol 2018; 187:1630-1641. [PMID: 29394309 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although use of oral contraceptives (OCs) is common, their influence on carcinogenesis is not fully understood. We used Cox proportional hazards models to examine OC use (never/<1 year (referent), 1-4, 5-9, ≥10 years) and development of incident cancers across body sites within the same base population: women in the prospective National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study (enrolled 1995-1996 and followed until 2011). Adjustment for confounding varied by outcome; all models accounted for age, race, body mass index, and smoking status, and included at least 100,000 women. Any OC use conferred a 3% reduction in the risk for any cancer (hazard ratio = 0.97, 95% confidence interval: 0.95, 0.99). Expected risk reductions that strengthened with duration of use were identified for ovarian and endometrial cancers and were suggested for kidney cancer (all P for trend < 0.05). Non-Hodgkin lymphoma risk (hazard ratio = 0.79, 95% confidence interval: 0.64, 0.97) was reduced with 10 or more years of OC use. There was a 37% reduced risk for bladder cancer and 46% increased risk for pancreatic cancer among long-term OC users who were 60 years of age or younger at baseline. OC use did not influence risks for most other cancers evaluated. Given the high prevalence of use and changing formulations, additional studies are warranted to fully understand the chemopreventive effects of these medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara A Michels
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Louise A Brinton
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ruth M Pfeiffer
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Britton Trabert
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Trenti A, Tedesco S, Boscaro C, Trevisi L, Bolego C, Cignarella A. Estrogen, Angiogenesis, Immunity and Cell Metabolism: Solving the Puzzle. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030859. [PMID: 29543707 PMCID: PMC5877720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen plays an important role in the regulation of cardiovascular physiology and the immune system by inducing direct effects on multiple cell types including immune and vascular cells. Sex steroid hormones are implicated in cardiovascular protection, including endothelial healing in case of arterial injury and collateral vessel formation in ischemic tissue. Estrogen can exert potent modulation effects at all levels of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Their action is mediated by interaction with classical estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and ERβ, as well as the more recently identified G-protein coupled receptor 30/G-protein estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1), via both genomic and non-genomic mechanisms. Emerging data from the literature suggest that estrogen deficiency in menopause is associated with an increased potential for an unresolved inflammatory status. In this review, we provide an overview through the puzzle pieces of how 17β-estradiol can influence the cardiovascular and immune systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Trenti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Serena Tedesco
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, 35129 Padua, Italy.
| | - Carlotta Boscaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Lucia Trevisi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bolego
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy.
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Nawroth J, Rogal J, Weiss M, Brucker SY, Loskill P. Organ-on-a-Chip Systems for Women's Health Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7. [PMID: 28985032 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Biomedical research, for a long time, has paid little attention to the influence of sex in many areas of study, ranging from molecular and cellular biology to animal models and clinical studies on human subjects. Many studies solely rely on male cells/tissues/animals/humans, although there are profound differences in male and female physiology, which can significantly impact disease mechanisms, toxicity of compounds, and efficacy of pharmaceuticals. In vitro systems have been traditionally very limited in their capacity to recapitulate female-specific physiology and anatomy such as dynamic sex-hormone levels and the complex interdependencies of female reproductive tract organs. However, the advent of microphysiological organ-on-a-chip systems, which attempt to recreate the 3D structure and function of human organs, now gives researchers the opportunity to integrate cells and tissues from a variety of individuals. Moreover, adding a dynamic flow environment allows mimicking endocrine signaling during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as providing a controlled microfluidic environment for pharmacokinetic modeling. This review gives an introduction into preclinical and clinical research on women's health and discusses where organ-on-a-chip systems are already utilized or have the potential to deliver new insights and enable entirely new types of studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Rogal
- Department of Cell and Tissue Engineering; Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB; Nobelstrasse 12 70569 Stuttgart Germany
| | - Martin Weiss
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; University Medicine Tübingen; Calwerstrasse 7 72076 Tübingen Germany
| | - Sara Y. Brucker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; University Medicine Tübingen; Calwerstrasse 7 72076 Tübingen Germany
| | - Peter Loskill
- Department of Cell and Tissue Engineering; Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB; Nobelstrasse 12 70569 Stuttgart Germany
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Bajbouj K, Shafarin J, Abdalla MY, Ahmad IM, Hamad M. Estrogen-induced disruption of intracellular iron metabolism leads to oxidative stress, membrane damage, and cell cycle arrest in MCF-7 cells. Tumour Biol 2017; 39:1010428317726184. [PMID: 29022497 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317726184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that several forms of cancer associate with significant iron overload. Recent studies have suggested that estrogen (E2) disrupts intracellular iron homeostasis by reducing hepcidin synthesis and maintaining ferroportin integrity. Here, the ability of E2 to alter intracellular iron status and cell growth potential was investigated in MCF-7 cells treated with increasing concentrations of E2. Treated cells were assessed for intracellular iron status, the expression of key proteins involved in iron metabolism, oxidative stress, cell survival, growth, and apoptosis. E2 treatment resulted in a significant reduction in hepcidin expression and a significant increase in hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha, ferroportin, transferrin receptor, and ferritin expression; a transient decrease in labile iron pool; and a significant increase in total intracellular iron content mainly at 20 nM/48 h E2 dose. Treated cells also showed increased total glutathione and oxidized glutathione levels, increased superoxide dismutase activity, and increased hemoxygenase 1 expression. Treatment with E2 at 20 nM for 48 h resulted in a significant reduction in cell growth (0.35/1 migration rate) and decreased cell survival (<80%) as compared with controls. Survivin expression significantly increased at 24 h post treatment with 5, 10, or 20 nM; however, that of γ-H2AX increased only after survivin levels dropped and only at the 20 nM E2 dose. Minimal upregulation and splitting of caspase 9 was only evident in cells treated with 20 nM E2; no changes in caspase 3 expression were evident. Although Annexin V staining studies showed that E2 treatment did not induce apoptosis, scanning electron microscopy studies showed marked membrane blebbing at 20 nM/48 h of E2. These findings suggest that estrogen treatment disrupts intracellular iron metabolism and precipitates adverse effects concerning cell viability, membrane integrity, and growth potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuloud Bajbouj
- 1 Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jasmin Shafarin
- 1 Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maher Y Abdalla
- 2 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Iman M Ahmad
- 3 Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mawieh Hamad
- 1 Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,4 Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Moradi Sarabi M, Ghareghani P, Khademi F, Zal F. Oral Contraceptive Use May Modulate Global Genomic DNA Methylation and Promoter Methylation of APC1 and ESR1. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2017; 18:2361-2366. [PMID: 28950679 PMCID: PMC5720637 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2017.18.9.2361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There are challenging reports in the public health sphere regarding associations between oral contraceptive (OC) use and cancer risk. Methods: To evaluate possible effects of OCs on cancer susceptibility, we quantified of global 5-methyl cytosine (5-mC) levels and assessed methylation patterns of CpG islands of two key tumor suppressor genes, APC1 and ESR1, in serum of users by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and methylation specific PCR methods, respectively. Results: Our results indicated that OCs significantly decrease the level of global DNA methylation in users relative to control non-users. However, our data revealed no significant differences between CpG island methylation patterns for ESR1 and APC1 in healthy control and OC-treated women. However, we did find a trend for hypermethylation of both tumor suppressor genes in OC users. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the level of 5-mC but not individual CpG island patterns is significantly influenced by OCs in our cross-section of adult users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Moradi Sarabi
- Biochemistry and Genetics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
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24
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Lobysheva II, van Eeckhoudt S, Dei Zotti F, Rifahi A, Pothen L, Beauloye C, Balligand JL. Heme-nitrosylated hemoglobin and oxidative stress in women consuming combined contraceptives. Clinical application of the EPR spectroscopy. Free Radic Biol Med 2017; 108:524-532. [PMID: 28392282 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED An increased risk of venous thromboembolism was identified in young women consuming combined contraceptive pills (CP) suggesting a disturbance of vascular homeostasis but the impact of CP on endothelial function and redox status of the vasculature was not thoroughly analyzed. We measured the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), a main mediator of vascular homeostasis in a cohort of young female subjects (n=114) and compared the results in users or not of CPs containing ethinyl estradiol and synthetic progestogens. Vascular NO availability was measured by quantification of the heme-nitrosylated hemoglobin (5-coordinate-α-HbNO) concentrations in venous erythrocytes using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy (EPR). Vascular oxidative status was assessed by measurement of peroxides in plasma, and of the thiol redox state in erythrocytes. In addition, endothelial function was assessed by digital reactive hyperemia pulse tonometry using EndoPAT. We observed that the HbNO level was significantly lower in erythrocytes of subjects consuming CPs versus controls (162±8 and 217±12 nmol/L). This correlated with significantly increased levels of plasma peroxides (1.8±0.1mmol/L versus 0.8±0.1mmol/L in controls) and decreased concentrations of erythrocyte reduced thiols (by 12%). Interestingly, the level of oxidized ceruloplasmin-Cu(II) was also significantly higher in the group consuming CPs. The EndoPAT index showed a trend towards impairment in CP users, and was significantly lower in subjects that consumed CPs containing drospirenone, and had lowest erythrocyte HbNO levels. CONCLUSION This cross-sectional cohort study demonstrates that a decrease of HbNO measured by quantitative EPR in human venous erythrocytes is correlated with the development of endothelial dysfunction under CPs consumption, in parallel with increased vascular oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina I Lobysheva
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Sandrine van Eeckhoudt
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Flavia Dei Zotti
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmad Rifahi
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucie Pothen
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Beauloye
- Pole of Cardiovascular Research (CARD), and Departments of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Balligand
- Institut de Recherche Experimentale et Clinique (IREC), Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
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25
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Sex-Related Differences in Inflammatory and Immune Activation Markers Before and After Combined Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 73:123-9. [PMID: 27258230 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women progress to death at the same rate as men despite lower plasma HIV RNA (viral load). We investigated sex-specific differences in immune activation and inflammation as a potential explanation. METHODS Inflammatory and immune activation markers [interferon γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, IL-6, IL-18, IFN-γ-induced protein 10, C-reactive protein (CRP), lipopolysaccharide, and sCD14] were measured at weeks 0, 24, and 48 after combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in a random subcohort (n = 215) who achieved virologic suppression in ACTG A5175 (Prospective Evaluation of Antiretrovirals in Resource-Limited Settings). Association between sex and changes in markers post-cART was examined using random effects models. Average marker differences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using multivariable models. RESULTS At baseline, women had lower median log10 viral load (4.93 vs 5.18 copies per milliliter, P = 0.01), CRP (2.32 vs 4.62 mg/L, P = 0.01), detectable lipopolysaccharide (39% vs 55%, P = 0.04), and sCD14 (1.9 vs 2.3 µg/mL, P = 0.06) vs men. By week 48, women had higher interferon γ (22.4 vs 14.9 pg/mL, P = 0.05), TNF-α (11.5 vs 9.5 pg/mL, P = 0.02), and CD4 (373 vs 323 cells per cubic millimeter, P = 0.02). In multivariate analysis, women had greater increases in CD4 and TNF-α but less of a decrease in CRP and sCD14 compared with men. CONCLUSIONS With cART-induced viral suppression, women have less reduction in key markers of inflammation and immune activation compared with men. Future studies should investigate the impact of these sex-specific differences on morbidity and mortality.
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26
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Zhang H, Lu J, Lu Y, Zhou J, Wang Z, Liu H, Xu C. Prognostic significance and predictors of the system inflammation score in ovarian clear cell carcinoma. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177520. [PMID: 28498842 PMCID: PMC5428928 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is a well-known epidemiologic factor of ovarian clear cell carcinomas (OCCC), but has an uncertain role in prognosis. We developed a systemic inflammation score (SIS) based on preoperative serum albumin and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in OCCC patients. A retrospective review was performed in 155 patients with OCCC undergoing primary debulking and chemotherapy at a single institute between 1995 and 2010. Cox regression models were fitted to analyze the effect of prognostic factors on PFS and OS. Harrell’s concordance index was calculated to assess predictive accuracy. The SIS consisting of serum albumin and NLR was retained as an independent indicator adjusting for traditional clinicopathological features. A high SIS was significantly associated with aggressive tumor behavior, platinum resistance, and served as an independent predictor of reduced PFS (P = 0.006) and OS (P = 0.019). The SIS had a good discrimination ability for the predictive PFS (c-index = 0.712) and OS (c-index = 0.722). We have developed a system inflammation score for predicting prognosis of OCCC patients, which may help stratify patients for postsurgical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaqi Lu
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayi Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Zehua Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiou Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (HL); (CX)
| | - Congjian Xu
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (HL); (CX)
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27
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Johansson A, Flanagan JM. Epigenome-wide association studies for breast cancer risk and risk factors. TRENDS IN CANCER RESEARCH 2017; 12:19-28. [PMID: 28955137 PMCID: PMC5612397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
There have been six epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) for breast cancer risk using blood DNA from prospective cohorts published thus far, and the only consistent finding is a global loss of methylation observed in breast cancer cases compared with controls, with no individual CpG sites passing validation across studies. In contrast, a more successful approach has been the identification of EWAS signatures of cancer risk factors such as smoking, body mass index, age and alcohol use with numerous validated CpG sites. These signatures may be used as a molecular test to quantify cancer risk associated with these factors. It is clear from the larger EWAS of risk exposures that similar-sized large collaborative studies may be needed to robustly identify DNA methylation signatures of breast cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Johansson
- Epigenetics Unit, Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
| | - James M. Flanagan
- Epigenetics Unit, Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
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28
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Abstract
Sex, the states of being female or male, potentially interacts with all xenobiotic exposures, both inadvertent and deliberate, and influences their toxicokinetics (TK), toxicodynamics, and outcomes. Sex differences occur in behavior, exposure, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and genetics, accounting for female-male differences in responses to environmental chemicals, diet, and pharmaceuticals, including adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Often viewed as an annoying confounder, researchers have studied only one sex, adjusted for sex, or ignored it. Occupational epidemiology, the basis for understanding many toxic effects in humans, usually excluded women. Likewise, Food and Drug Administration rules excluded women of childbearing age from drug studies for many years. Aside from sex-specific organs, sex differences and sex × age interactions occur for a wide range of disease states as well as hormone-influenced conditions and drug distribution. Women have more ADRs than men; the classic sex hormone paradigm (gonadectomy and replacement) reveals significant interaction of sex and TK including absorption, distribution, metabolisms, and elimination. Studies should be designed to detect sex differences, describe the mechanisms, and interpret these in a broad social, clinical, and evolutionary context with phenomena that do not differ. Sex matters, but how much of a difference is needed to matter remains challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute and Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stakeholder Participation at Rutgers—Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Piscataway, New Jersey
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29
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Arellano-Ortiz AL, Salcedo-Vargas M, Vargas-Requena CL, López-Díaz JA, De la Mora-Covarrubias A, Silva-Espinoza JC, Jiménez-Vega F. DNA Methylation of Cellular Retinoic Acid-Binding Proteins in Cervical Cancer. GENETICS & EPIGENETICS 2016; 8:53-57. [PMID: 27867303 PMCID: PMC5106192 DOI: 10.4137/geg.s40847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This study determined the methylation status of cellular retinoic acid-binding protein (CRABP) gene promoters and associated them with demographic characteristics, habits, and the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) in patients with cervical cancer (CC), low and high squamous intraepithelial lesions, and no intraepithelial lesion. Women (n = 158) were selected from the Colposcopy Clinic of Sanitary Jurisdiction II in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. Demographic characteristics and habit information were collected. Cervical biopsy and endocervical scraping were used to determine methylation in promoter regions by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction technique. We found hemi-methylation patterns in the promoter regions of CRABP1 and CRABP2; there was 28.5% hemi-methylation in CRABP1 and 7.0% in that of CRABP2. Methylation in CRABP1 was associated with age (≥35 years, P = 0.002), family history of cancer (P = 0.032), the presence of HPV-16 (P = 0.013), and no alcohol intake (P = 0.035). These epigenetic changes could be involved in the CC process, and CRABP1 has the potential to be a predictive molecular marker of retinoid therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L. Arellano-Ortiz
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | - Mauricio Salcedo-Vargas
- Unidad de Investigación Médica de Enfermedades Oncológicas, Hospital de Oncología, Centro Médico Nacional-Siglo XXI, IMSS, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Claudia L. Vargas-Requena
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | - José A. López-Díaz
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | - Antonio De la Mora-Covarrubias
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | - Juan C. Silva-Espinoza
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | - Florinda Jiménez-Vega
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
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30
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Franconi F, Rosano G, Basili S, Montella A, Campesi I. Human cells involved in atherosclerosis have a sex. Int J Cardiol 2016; 228:983-1001. [PMID: 27915217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.11.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The influence of sex has been largely described in cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis is a complex process that involves many cell types such as vessel cells, immune cells and endothelial progenitor cells; however, many, if not all, studies do not report the sex of the cells. This review focuses on sex differences in human cells involved in the atherosclerotic process, emphasizing the role of sex hormones. Furthermore, we report sex differences and issues related to the processes that determine the fate of the cells such as apoptotic and autophagic mechanisms. The analysis of the data reveals that there are still many gaps in our knowledge regarding sex influences in atherosclerosis, largely for the cell types that have not been well studied, stressing the urgent need for a clear definition of experimental conditions and the inclusion of both sexes in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Assessorato alle Politiche per la Persona of Basilicata Region, Potenza, Italy; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rosano
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St. George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Stefania Basili
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties - Research Center on Gender and Evaluation and Promotion of Quality in Medicine (CEQUAM), Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Montella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Italy.
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31
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Campesi I, Marino M, Montella A, Pais S, Franconi F. Sex Differences in Estrogen Receptor α and β Levels and Activation Status in LPS-Stimulated Human Macrophages. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:340-345. [PMID: 27171902 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Immune function, inflammation, and atherosclerosis display sex differences and are influenced by 17β-estradiol through estrogen receptors subtypes ERα and ERβ. Male tissues express active ERs, but their possible involvement in inflammation in males has never been assessed. Macrophages express both ERα and ERβ and offer the opportunity to evaluate the role of ER levels and activation in inflammation. We assessed the ability of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to modulate, in a sex-specific way, the expression and the activation status of ERα and ERβ in blood monocytes-derived macrophages (MDMs) from men and women. MDMs were incubated with 100 ng/ml LPS for 24 h and used to evaluate ERα, ERβ, P-ERα, p38, and P-p38 expression by Western Blotting. In basal conditions, ERα and ERβ were significantly higher in female MDMs than in male MDMs. LPS up-regulated ERα and ERα phosphorylation in both sexes, with a significantly higher effect observed in male MDMs, and down-regulated ERβ level only in female MDMs. p38 and P-p38 proteins, indicative of ERβ activity, did not show sex differences both in basal conditions and after LPS treatment. Finally, ERα/ERβ and P-ERα/ERα ratios were significantly higher in male MDMs than in female ones. Our data indicate, for the first time, that LPS affects ERα but not ERβ activation status. We identify a significant role of ERα in LPS-mediated inflammatory responses in MDMs, which represents an initial step in understanding the influence of sex in the relationship between LPS and ERα. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 340-345, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy. .,Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Italy.
| | - Maria Marino
- Cell Physiology Lab, Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Montella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sara Pais
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Assessorato alle Politiche per la Persona of Basilicata Region, Potenza, Italy
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Igunnu A, Seok YM, Olatunji LA, Kang SH, Kim I. Combined oral contraceptive synergistically activates mineralocorticoid receptor through histone code modifications. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 769:48-54. [PMID: 26506558 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Clinical studies have shown that the use of combined oral contraceptive in pre-menopausal women is associated with fluid retention. However, the molecular mechanism is still elusive. We hypothesized that combined oral contraceptive (COC) ethinyl estradiol (EE) and norgestrel (N) synergistically activates mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) through histone code modifications. Twelve-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with olive oil (control), a combination of 0.1µg EE and 1.0µg N (low COC) or 1.0µg EE and 10.0µg N (high COC) as well as 0.1 or 1.0µg EE and 1.0 or 10.0µg N daily for 6 weeks. Expression of MR target genes in kidney cortex was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. MR was quantified by western blot. Recruitment of MR and RNA polymerase II (Pol II) on promoters of target genes as well as histone code modifications was analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Treatment with COC increased renal cortical expression of MR target genes such as serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (Sgk-1), glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (Gilz), epithelial Na(+)channel (Enac) and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase subunit α1 (Atp1a1). Although COC increased neither serum aldosterone nor MR expression in kidney cortex, it increased recruitment of MR and Pol II in parallel with increased H3Ac and H3K4me3 on the promoter regions of MR target genes. However, treatment with EE or N alone did not affect renal cortical expression of Sgk-1, Gilz, Enac or Atp1a1. These results indicate that COC synergistically activates MR through histone code modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedoyin Igunnu
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mi Seok
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Korea Promotion Institute for Traditional Medicine Industry, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 712-260, Republic of Korea
| | - Lawrence A Olatunji
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea
| | - Seol-Hee Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cell and Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea
| | - Inkyeom Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; Cell and Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea; BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-842, Republic of Korea.
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33
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Wegner A, Elsenbruch S, Rebernik L, Roderigo T, Engelbrecht E, Jäger M, Engler H, Schedlowski M, Benson S. Inflammation-induced pain sensitization in men and women: does sex matter in experimental endotoxemia? Pain 2015; 156:1954-1964. [PMID: 26058036 PMCID: PMC4770336 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
A role of the innate immune system is increasingly recognized as a mechanism contributing to pain sensitization. Experimental administration of the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) constitutes a model to study inflammation-induced pain sensitization, but all existing human evidence comes from male participants. We assessed visceral and musculoskeletal pain sensitivity after low-dose LPS administration in healthy men and women to test the hypothesis that women show greater LPS-induced hyperalgesia compared with men. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, healthy men (n = 20) and healthy women using oral contraceptives (n = 20) received an intravenous injection of 0.4 ng/kg body weight LPS or placebo. Pain sensitivity was assessed with established visceral and musculoskeletal pain models (ie, rectal pain thresholds; pressure pain thresholds for different muscle groups), together with a heartbeat perception (interoceptive accuracy) task. Plasma cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6) were measured along with state anxiety at baseline and up to 6-hour postinjection. Lipopolysaccharide application led to significant increases in plasma cytokines and state anxiety and decreased interoceptive awareness in men and women (P < 0.001, condition effects), with more pronounced LPS-induced cytokine increases in women (P < 0.05, interaction effects). Although both rectal and pressure pain thresholds were significantly decreased in the LPS condition (all P < 0.05, condition effect), no sex differences in endotoxin-induced sensitization were observed. In summary, LPS-induced systemic immune activation leads to visceral and musculoskeletal hyperalgesia, irrespective of biological sex. These findings support the broad applicability of experimental endotoxin administration as a translational preclinical model of inflammation-induced pain sensitization in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Wegner
- Clinic for Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sigrid Elsenbruch
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Laura Rebernik
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Clinical and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Till Roderigo
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Elisa Engelbrecht
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marcus Jäger
- Clinic for Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Harald Engler
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Manfred Schedlowski
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sven Benson
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Bethea TN, Rosenberg L, Hong CC, Troester MA, Lunetta KL, Bandera EV, Schedin P, Kolonel LN, Olshan AF, Ambrosone CB, Palmer JR. A case-control analysis of oral contraceptive use and breast cancer subtypes in the African American Breast Cancer Epidemiology and Risk Consortium. Breast Cancer Res 2015; 17:22. [PMID: 25849024 PMCID: PMC4358874 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0535-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent oral contraceptive (OC) use has been consistently associated with increased risk of breast cancer, but evidence on specific breast cancer subtypes is sparse. Methods We investigated recency and duration of OC use in relation to molecular subtypes of breast cancer in a pooled analysis of data from the African American Breast Cancer Epidemiology and Risk Consortium. The study included 1,848 women with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, 1,043 with ER-negative (ER-) breast cancer (including 494 triple negative (TN) tumors, which do not have receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor 2), and 10,044 controls. Multivariable polytomous logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for exposure categories relative to never use, controlling for potential confounding variables. Results OC use within the previous 5 years was associated with increased risk of ER+ (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.81), ER- (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.43), and TN (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.25 to 2.53) breast cancer. The risk declined after cessation of use but was apparent for ER+ cancer for 15 to 19 years after cessation and for ER- breast cancer for an even longer interval after cessation. Long duration of use was also associated with increased risk of each subtype, particularly ER-. Conclusions Our results suggest that OC use, particularly recent use of long duration, is associated with an increased risk of ER+, ER-, and TN breast cancer in African American women. Research into mechanisms that explain these findings, especially the association with ER- breast cancer, is needed.
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Franconi F, Rosano G, Campesi I. Need for gender-specific pre-analytical testing: the dark side of the moon in laboratory testing. Int J Cardiol 2014; 179:514-35. [PMID: 25465806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Many international organisations encourage studies in a sex-gender perspective. However, research with a gender perspective presents a high degree of complexity, and the inclusion of sex-gender variable in experiments presents many methodological questions, the majority of which are still neglected. Overcoming these issues is fundamental to avoid erroneous results. Here, pre-analytical aspects of the research, such as study design, choice of utilised specimens, sample collection and processing, animal models of diseases, and the observer's role, are discussed. Artefacts in this stage of research could affect the predictive value of all analyses. Furthermore, the standardisation of research subjects according to their lifestyles and, if female, to their life phase and menses or oestrous cycle, is urgent to harmonise research worldwide. A sex-gender-specific attention to pre-analytical aspects could produce a decrease in the time for translation from the bench to bedside. Furthermore, sex-gender-specific pre-clinical pharmacological testing will enable adequate assessment of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic actions of drugs and will enable, where appropriate, an adequate gender-specific clinical development plan. Therefore, sex-gender-specific pre-clinical research will increase the gender equity of care and will produce more evidence-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Sassari, Italy; Vicepresident of Basilicata Region.
| | - Giuseppe Rosano
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Sassari, Italy
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Ruoppolo M, Campesi I, Scolamiero E, Pecce R, Caterino M, Cherchi S, Mercuro G, Tonolo G, Franconi F. Serum metabolomic profiles suggest influence of sex and oral contraceptive use. Am J Transl Res 2014; 6:614-624. [PMID: 25360225 PMCID: PMC4212935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM Considering that the effects of sex and oral contraceptives (OCs) on blood metabolites have been scarcely studied and the fact that protocol designs for clinical trials emphasise the use of contraception for women of childbearing potential, we examined if OCs and sex affect the serum levels of the physiologically relevant amino acids, carnitine and acylcarnitines, using metabolomics approaches. METHODS Healthy adult men and women were enrolled. They were drug free with the exception of women taking cyclic format OCs (ethinylestradiol + different progestins). OCs-free women were analysed during the follicular phase, and amino acids, free carnitine and acylcarnitines were measured using HPLC or LC-MS/MS, respectively. RESULTS Men had significantly higher leucine, isoleucine, methionine, asparagine, proline, valine, tyrosine, glutamine+glutamate, glutamate, histidine and citrulline than OCs-free women, while tryptophan was significantly lower in men. OCs use significantly decreased the levels of glycine, proline, histidine, lysine, hydroxyproline and ornithine and increased isoleucine levels when compared with non-user women. OCs use reduced, although not significantly, carnitine levels in women. Total esterified carnitines were higher in untreated women than in OCs users. Globally, the effect of OCs and sex was specific for the individual esterified carnitine. The observed metabolic changes were not attributable to renal or hepatic functions or to differences in body weight. CONCLUSIONS The assessed parameters were specifically influenced by sex, highlighting the need to have reference values for women and men. The major novelty of this study is the demonstration that OCs specifically change the profiles of serum amino acids and carnitine, which suggests that OCs users and non-users should be represented in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Ruoppolo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”Napoli, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarlNapoli, Italy
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariSassari, Italy
- National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and BiosystemsOsilo, Italy
| | | | - Rita Pecce
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Sara Cherchi
- SC Diabetologia Aziendale ASL 2 Olbia, San Giovanni di Dio HospitaOlbia, Italy
| | | | - Giancarlo Tonolo
- SC Diabetologia Aziendale ASL 2 Olbia, San Giovanni di Dio HospitaOlbia, Italy
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariSassari, Italy
- National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and BiosystemsOsilo, Italy
- Centre of Excellence for Biotechnology Development and Biodiversity Research, University of SassariSassari, Italy
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Abstract
Most of what is known about the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pertains to complex interplay between host genetics, immunity, and environmental factors. Epigenetic modifications play pivotal roles in intestinal immunity and mucosal homeostasis as well as mediating gene-environment interactions. In this article, we provide a historical account of epigenetic research either directly related or pertinent to the pathogenesis and management of IBD. We further collate emerging evidence supporting roles for epigenetic mechanisms in relevant aspects of IBD biology, including deregulated immunity, host-pathogen recognition and mucosal integrity. Finally, we highlight key epigenetic mechanisms that link chronic inflammation to specific IBD comorbidities, including colitis-associated cancer and discuss their potential utility as novel biomarkers or pharmacologic targets in IBD therapy.
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Davidson BA, Moorman PG. Risk-benefit assessment of the combined oral contraceptive pill in women with a family history of female cancer. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2014; 13:1375-82. [PMID: 25146351 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2014.951327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are the most frequently used form of effective, reversible contraception among women of childbearing potential. In the average risk population, OCPs may offer a protective benefit against ovarian, endometrial and colorectal malignancies. In women at high risk for breast, ovarian, endometrial or colorectal malignancies, the risk-benefit profile is less well studied. AREAS COVERED In this article, we review pertinent literature on the use of OCPs in patients with genetic susceptibilities due to mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2 or mismatch repair genes implicated in hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer as well as those with a strong family history of malignancies associated with these syndromes. EXPERT OPINION For women at high risk for ovarian, endometrial and/or colorectal malignancies due to genetic susceptibilities or a strong family history, the possibility of chemoprevention with OCPs may be an attractive option; however, the potential increase in breast cancer, although small, must be considered in clinical decision-making. The ultimate decision to use OCPs in a high-risk woman should be based on a consideration of her specific genetic risk, her age, her reproductive plans and her willingness to consider surgical prophylaxis options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Anne Davidson
- Duke University Medical Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , DUMC 3079, Durham, NC 27710 , USA
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Ivanov M, Barragan I, Ingelman-Sundberg M. Epigenetic mechanisms of importance for drug treatment. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2014; 35:384-96. [PMID: 24993164 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There are pronounced interindividual variations in drug metabolism, drug responses, and the incidence of adverse drug reactions. To a certain extent such variability can be explained by genetic factors, but epigenetic modifications, which are relatively scarcely described so far, also contribute. It is known that a novel class of drugs termed epidrugs intervene in the epigenetic control of gene expression, and many of these are now in clinical trials for disease treatment. In addition, disease prognosis and drug treatment success can be monitored using epigenetic biomarkers. Here we review these novel aspects in pharmacology and address intriguing future opportunities for gene-specific epigenetic editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim Ivanov
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Isabel Barragan
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ingelman-Sundberg
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Bjelland E, Kristiansson P, Nordeng H, Vangen S, Eberhard-Gran M. Hormonal contraception and pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy: a population study of 91,721 pregnancies in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3134-40. [PMID: 23887071 PMCID: PMC3795467 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is pre-pregnancy hormonal contraception use associated with the development of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER In contrast to combined oral contraceptive pills, long lifetime exposure to progestin-only contraceptive pills or the use of a progestin intrauterine device during the final year before pregnancy were associated with pelvic girdle pain. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN Pelvic girdle pain severely affects many women during pregnancy. Smaller studies have suggested that hormonal contraceptive use is involved in the underlying mechanisms, but evidence is inconclusive. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A population study during the years 1999-2008. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 91,721 pregnancies included in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study. Data were obtained by two self-administered questionnaires during pregnancy weeks 17 and 30. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Pelvic girdle pain was present in 12.9% of women who had used combined oral contraceptive pills during the last pre-pregnancy year, 16.4% of women who had used progestin-only contraceptive pills, 16.7% of women who had progestin injections and 20.7% of women who had used progestin intrauterine devices, compared with 15.3% of women who did not report use of hormonal contraceptives. After adjustment for other study factors, the use of a progestin intrauterine device was the only factor based on the preceding year associated with pelvic girdle pain [adjusted odds ratios (OR) 1.20; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11-1.31]. Long lifetime exposure to progestin-only contraceptive pills was also associated with pelvic girdle pain (adjusted OR 1.49; 95% CI: 1.01-2.20). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The participation rate was 38.5%. However, a recent study on the potential biases of skewed selection in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study found the prevalence estimates but not the exposure-outcome associations to be influenced by the selection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results suggest that combined oral contraceptives can be used without fear of developing pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. However, the influence of progestin intrauterine devices and long-term exposure to progestin-only contraceptive pills requires further study. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The present study was supported by the Norwegian Research Council. None of the authors has a conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- E.K. Bjelland
- Division of Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, N-0403 Oslo, Norway
- Health Services Research Centre, Akershus University Hospital, N-1478 Lørenskog, Norway
| | - P. Kristiansson
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 564, SE-75122 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - H. Nordeng
- Division of Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, N-0403 Oslo, Norway
- School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1068 Blindern, N-0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - S. Vangen
- Norwegian Resource Center for Women's Health, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0316 Oslo, Norway and
- Division of Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, N-0403 Oslo, Norway
| | - M. Eberhard-Gran
- Division of Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, N-0403 Oslo, Norway
- Health Services Research Centre, Akershus University Hospital, N-1478 Lørenskog, Norway
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Hamad M, Awadallah S. Estrogen-dependent changes in serum iron levels as a translator of the adverse effects of estrogen during infection: a conceptual framework. Med Hypotheses 2013; 81:1130-4. [PMID: 24211145 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of estrogen often associate with increased susceptibility to infection. This has been attributed to the ability of estrogen to concomitantly enhance the growth and virulence of pathogens and suppress host immunity. But the exact mechanism of how estrogen mediates such effects, especially in cases where the pathogen and/or the immune components in question do not express estrogen receptors, has yet to be elucidated. Here we propose that translating the adverse effects of estrogen during infection is dependent to a significant degree upon its ability to manipulate iron homeostasis. For elevated levels of estrogen alter the synthesis and/or activity of several factors involved in iron metabolism including hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and hepcidin among others. This leads to the inhibition of hepcidin synthesis in hepatocytes and the maintenance of ferroportin (FPN) integrity on the surface of iron-releasing duodenal enterocytes, hepatocytes, and macrophages. Intact FPN permits the continuous efflux of dietary and stored iron into the circulation, which further enhances pathogen growth and virulence on the one hand and suppresses host immunity on the other. This new conceptual framework may help explain a multitude of disparate clinical and experimental observations pertinent to the relationship between estrogen and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mawieh Hamad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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Campesi I, Carru C, Zinellu A, Occhioni S, Sanna M, Palermo M, Tonolo G, Mercuro G, Franconi F. Regular cigarette smoking influences the transsulfuration pathway, endothelial function, and inflammation biomarkers in a sex-gender specific manner in healthy young humans. Am J Transl Res 2013; 5:497-509. [PMID: 23977409 PMCID: PMC3745437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette smoking (CS) is the primary cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. Abundant clinical evidence suggests that CS is more harmful to women; however, the mechanisms responsible for these differences are not yet known. CS alters endothelial function, the redox state, inflammation, and global DNA methylation, which is associated with one-carbon metabolism and the transsulfuration pathway. However, it is not known whether the previously identified alterations are sex-gender related. Healthy adult men and oral contraceptive-free women with regular menstrual cycles were enrolled; women were examined during the follicular phase. Men had higher plasma levels of uric acid, total bilirubin, homocysteine, glutamylcysteine, total glutathione, cysteinylglycine; had more monocytes and released more TNF-alpha from human monocytes derived macrophages (hMDMs), but they had fewer platelets and lower levels of DNA methylation, and their hMDMs released less TNF-alpha after LPS stimulation. MDA, taurine, cysteine, arginine, ADMA, and SDMA were not different. CS decreased global DNA methylation more in women and increased the platelet, monocyte, and lymphocyte counts and the homocysteine, arginine, and ADMA levels only in women, whereas increased the neutrophil and eosinophil counts only in men. Additionally, CS reduced the sex-gender differences in total bilirubin, basal and LPS-induced TNF-alpha release, total glutathione, and glutamylcysteine, leaving unchanged cysteinylglycine, taurine, SDMA, MDA, and cysteine. These data suggest that cardiovascular risk factors seem to come earlier in young healthy female smokers than in young healthy male smokers, supporting the greater alarmism regarding the effects of CS in women and providing a basis for understanding the sex-gender differences. These results also suggest that cessation programs targeting women are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and BiosystemsViale S. Antonio, Osilo, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ciriaco Carru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stefano Occhioni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
| | - Manuela Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
| | - Mario Palermo
- Servizio di Diagnosi e Cura di Endocrinologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-UniversitariaSassari, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Tonolo
- SC Diabetologia Aziendale ASL 2 Olbia, Hospital San Giovanni di DioOlbia, Italy
| | | | - Flavia Franconi
- Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and BiosystemsViale S. Antonio, Osilo, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of SassariVia Muroni 23, Sassari, Italy
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Bolego C, Cignarella A, Staels B, Chinetti-Gbaguidi G. Macrophage function and polarization in cardiovascular disease: a role of estrogen signaling? Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2013; 33:1127-34. [PMID: 23640494 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.113.301328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are plastic and versatile cells adapting their function/phenotype to the microenvironment. Distinct macrophage subpopulations with different functions, including classically (M1) and (M2) activated macrophages, have been described. Reciprocal skewing of macrophage polarization between the M1 and M2 state is a process modulated by transcription factors, such as the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. However, whether the estrogen/estrogen receptor pathways control the balance between M1/M2 macrophages is only partially understood. Estrogen-dependent effects on the macrophage system may be regarded as potential targets of pharmacological approaches to protect postmenopausal women from the elevated risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bolego
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Abstract
The influence of sex and gender on anesthesia and analgesic therapy remains poorly understood, nevertheless the numerous physiological and pharmacological differences present between men and women. Although in anesthesiology sex-gender aspects have attracted little attention, it has been reported that women have a greater sensitivity to the non-depolarizing neuroblocking agents, whereas males are more sensitive than females to propofol. It has been suggested that men wake slower than women after general anesthesia and have less postoperative nausea and vomiting. Sexual hormones seem to be of importance in the onset of differences. Nevertheless, in the last years, sex-gender influences on pain and analgesia have become a hot topic and data regarding sex-gender differences in response to pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic pain treatments are still scanty, inconsistent, and non-univocal. In particular, females seem to be more sensitive than males to opioid receptor agonists. Women may experience respiratory depression and other adverse effects more easily if they are given the same doses as males. Evidently, there is an obvious need for more research, which should include psychological and social factors in experimental preclinical and clinical paradigms in view of their importance on pain mechanism, in order to individualize analgesia to optimize pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Nielson CM, Klein RF, Orwoll ES. Sex and the single nucleotide polymorphism: exploring the genetic causes of skeletal sex differences. J Bone Miner Res 2012; 27:2047-50. [PMID: 22991137 PMCID: PMC3935890 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.1723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carrie M Nielson
- Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Greer JM, McCombe PA. The role of epigenetic mechanisms and processes in autoimmune disorders. Biologics 2012; 6:307-27. [PMID: 23055689 PMCID: PMC3459549 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s24067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The lack of complete concordance of autoimmune disease in identical twins suggests that nongenetic factors play a major role in determining disease susceptibility. In this review, we consider how epigenetic mechanisms could affect the immune system and effector mechanisms in autoimmunity and/or the target organ of autoimmunity and thus affect the development of autoimmune diseases. We also consider the types of stimuli that lead to epigenetic modifications and how these relate to the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases and the biological pathways operative in different autoimmune diseases. Increasing our knowledge of these epigenetic mechanisms and processes will increase the prospects for controlling or preventing autoimmune diseases in the future through the use of drugs that target the epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith M Greer
- The University of Queensland, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Pamela A McCombe
- The University of Queensland, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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