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González-Gil A, Sánchez-Maldonado B, Rojo C, Flor-García M, Queiroga FL, Ovalle S, Ramos-Ruiz R, Fuertes-Recuero M, Picazo RA. Proneurogenic actions of follicle-stimulating hormone on neurospheres derived from ovarian cortical cells in vitro. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:372. [PMID: 39160565 PMCID: PMC11334536 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04203-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) from extra-neural origin represent a valuable tool for autologous cell therapy and research in neurogenesis. Identification of proneurogenic biomolecules on NSPCs would improve the success of cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Preliminary data suggested that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) might act in this fashion. This study was aimed to elucidate whether FSH promotes development, self-renewal, and is proneurogenic on neurospheres (NS) derived from sheep ovarian cortical cells (OCCs). Two culture strategies were carried out: (a) long-term, 21-days NS culture (control vs. FSH group) with NS morphometric evaluation, gene expression analyses of stemness and lineage markers, and immunolocalization of NSPCs antigens; (b) NS assay to demonstrate FSH actions on self-renewal and differentiation capacity of NS cultured with one of three defined media: M1: positive control with EGF/FGF2; M2: control; and M3: M2 supplemented with FSH. RESULTS In long-term cultures, FSH increased NS diameters with respect to control group (302.90 ± 25.20 μm vs. 183.20 ± 7.63 on day 9, respectively), upregulated nestin (days 15/21), Sox2 (day 21) and Pax6 (days 15/21) and increased the percentages of cells immunolocalizing these proteins. During NS assays, FSH stimulated NSCPs proliferation, and self-renewal, increasing NS diameters during the two expansion periods and the expression of the neuron precursor transcript DCX during the second one. In the FSH-group there were more frequent cell-bridges among neighbouring NS. CONCLUSIONS FSH is a proneurogenic hormone that promotes OCC-NSPCs self-renewal and NS development. Future studies will be necessary to support the proneurogenic actions of FSH and its potential use in basic and applied research related to cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo González-Gil
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro SN, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
| | - Belén Sánchez-Maldonado
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Concepción Rojo
- Department of Anatomy and Embriology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Miguel Flor-García
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CBMSO), Spanish Research Council (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, 28049, Spain
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - Felisbina Luisa Queiroga
- Centre for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, Vila Real, 5000-801, Portugal.
| | - Susana Ovalle
- Genomic Unit Cantoblanco, Fundación Parque Científico de Madrid. C/ Faraday 7, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - Ricardo Ramos-Ruiz
- Genomic Unit Cantoblanco, Fundación Parque Científico de Madrid. C/ Faraday 7, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - Manuel Fuertes-Recuero
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro SN, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Rosa Ana Picazo
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro SN, Madrid, 28040, Spain
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Zucon Bacelar AC, Momesso NR, Pederro FHM, Gonçalves A, Ervolino E, Chaves-Neto AH, Biguetti CC, Matsumoto MA. Aged and induced-premature ovarian failure mouse models affect diestrus profile and ovarian features. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284887. [PMID: 38064437 PMCID: PMC10707698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones exert a wide influence on several systems of the human body, especially in women, who undergo intense changes in the trans and postmenopausal periods. Different experimental models are used to mimic these conditions; however, the impact on hormonal profile may be different. This study aimed to analyze and compare vaginal cytology of different post-estropausal mice models, along with their microscopical ovarian features. Forty-six C57BL/6J female mice with the ages of 4, 6 and 18 months at the beginning of the experiment, weighing about 25-28 grams, constituted five groups: NC-(negative control) animals with no treatment, OVX-SHAM-sham ovariectomized, OVX-ovariectomized, VCD-medicated with 160 mg/kg/day of 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide via IP for 20 consecutive days, and Aged-senescent mice under physiological estropause. Euthanasia was performed at different periods for the removal of the ovaries, and after diestrus was confirmed by vaginal cytology for 10 consecutive days. For daily vaginal cytology, morphological and histomorphometric microscopic analyzes were performed. Aged mice presented significant increased neutrophils when compared to VCD group, as well as increased cornified epithelial cells when compared to OVX mice, and also increased nucleated epithelial cells when compared to VCD and OVX. NC and OVX-SHAM ovaries presented innumerous follicles at different stages of development, while VCD showed marked follicular atresia, depleted of primordial or developing follicles and a predominance of interstitial cells. The ovaries of aged mice were predominantly constituted by corpus luteum degenerated into corpus albicans, with rare antral follicles. All analyzed models led to different permanent diestrus profiles caused by each model, as indicated by ovarian features. This should be carefully considered when choosing a post-estropausal experimental model, in order to better correlate this challenging phase of female's life with physiological/pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Zucon Bacelar
- Department of Diagnostics and Surgery, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba, School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nataira Regina Momesso
- Department of Diagnostics and Surgery, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba, School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Haddad Martim Pederro
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alaíde Gonçalves
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edilson Ervolino
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Claudia Cristina Biguetti
- School of Podiatric Medicine, The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Rio Grande Valley, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mariza Akemi Matsumoto
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University—Unesp, Araçatuba School of Dentistry, São Paulo, Brazil
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Ávila-González D, Romero-Morales I, Caro L, Martínez-Juárez A, Young LJ, Camacho-Barrios F, Martínez-Alarcón O, Castro AE, Paredes RG, Díaz NF, Portillo W. Increased proliferation and neuronal fate in prairie vole brain progenitor cells cultured in vitro: effects by social exposure and sexual dimorphism. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:77. [PMID: 37919790 PMCID: PMC10623709 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00563-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) is a socially monogamous rodent that establishes an enduring pair bond after cohabitation, with (6 h) or without (24 h) mating. Previously, we reported that social interaction and mating increased cell proliferation and differentiation to neuronal fate in neurogenic niches in male voles. We hypothesized that neurogenesis may be a neural plasticity mechanism involved in mating-induced pair bond formation. Here, we evaluated the differentiation potential of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) isolated from the subventricular zone (SVZ) of both female and male adult voles as a function of sociosexual experience. Animals were assigned to one of the following groups: (1) control (Co), sexually naive female and male voles that had no contact with another vole of the opposite sex; (2) social exposure (SE), males and females exposed to olfactory, auditory, and visual stimuli from a vole of the opposite sex, but without physical contact; and (3) social cohabitation with mating (SCM), male and female voles copulating to induce pair bonding formation. Subsequently, the NPCs were isolated from the SVZ, maintained, and supplemented with growth factors to form neurospheres in vitro. RESULTS Notably, we detected in SE and SCM voles, a higher proliferation of neurosphere-derived Nestin + cells, as well as an increase in mature neurons (MAP2 +) and a decrease in glial (GFAP +) differentiated cells with some sex differences. These data suggest that when voles are exposed to sociosexual experiences that induce pair bonding, undifferentiated cells of the SVZ acquire a commitment to a neuronal lineage, and the determined potential of the neurosphere is conserved despite adaptations under in vitro conditions. Finally, we repeated the culture to obtain neurospheres under treatments with different hormones and factors (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, estradiol, prolactin, oxytocin, and progesterone); the ability of SVZ-isolated cells to generate neurospheres and differentiate in vitro into neurons or glial lineages in response to hormones or factors is also dependent on sex and sociosexual context. CONCLUSION Social interactions that promote pair bonding in voles change the properties of cells isolated from the SVZ. Thus, SE or SCM induces a bias in the differentiation potential in both sexes, while SE is sufficient to promote proliferation in SVZ-isolated cells from male brains. In females, proliferation increases when mating is performed. The next question is whether the rise in proliferation and neurogenesis of cells from the SVZ are plastic processes essential for establishing, enhancing, maintaining, or accelerating pair bond formation. Highlights 1. Sociosexual experiences that promote pair bonding (social exposure and social cohabitation with mating) induce changes in the properties of neural stem/progenitor cells isolated from the SVZ in adult prairie voles. 2. Social interactions lead to increased proliferation and induce a bias in the differentiation potential of SVZ-isolated cells in both male and female voles. 3. The differentiation potential of SVZ-isolated cells is conserved under in vitro conditions, suggesting a commitment to a neuronal lineage under a sociosexual context. 4. Hormonal and growth factors treatments (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, estradiol, prolactin, oxytocin, and progesterone) affect the generation and differentiation of neurospheres, with dependencies on sex and sociosexual context. 5. Proliferation and neurogenesis in the SVZ may play a crucial role in establishing, enhancing, maintaining, or accelerating pair bond formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ávila-González
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Italo Romero-Morales
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Lizette Caro
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Martínez-Juárez
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Larry J Young
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Francisco Camacho-Barrios
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Omar Martínez-Alarcón
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Analía E Castro
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Raúl G Paredes
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Néstor F Díaz
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Wendy Portillo
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico.
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Garcia-Flores E, Kehtari T, Morshead CM. Metformin Improves Functional Outcomes, Activates Neural Precursor Cells, and Modulates Microglia in a Sex-Dependent Manner After Spinal Cord Injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023:7174953. [PMID: 37209417 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in devastating patient outcomes with few treatment options. A promising approach to improve outcomes following SCI involves the activation of endogenous precursor populations including neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) which are located in the periventricular zone (PVZ), and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) found throughout the parenchyma. In the adult spinal cord, resident NSPCs are primarily mitotically quiescent and aneurogenic, while OPCs contribute to ongoing oligodendrogenesis into adulthood. Each of these populations is responsive to SCI, increasing their proliferation and migration to the site of injury; however, their activation is not sufficient to support functional recovery. Previous work has shown that administration of the FDA-approved drug metformin is effective at promoting endogenous brain repair following injury, and this is correlated with enhanced NSPC activation. Here, we ask whether metformin can promote functional recovery and neural repair following SCI in both males and females. Our results reveal that acute, but not delayed metformin administration improves functional outcomes following SCI in both sexes. The functional improvement is concomitant with OPC activation and oligodendrogenesis. Our data also reveal sex-dependent effects of metformin following SCI with increased activation of NSPCs in females and reduced microglia activation in males. Taken together, these findings support metformin as a viable therapeutic strategy following SCI and highlight its pleiotropic effects in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia-Flores
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tarlan Kehtari
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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5
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Niemann T, Greiner JFW, Kaltschmidt C, Kaltschmidt B. EPO regulates neuronal differentiation of adult human neural-crest derived stem cells in a sex-specific manner. BMC Neurosci 2023; 24:19. [PMID: 36879191 PMCID: PMC9990360 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-023-00789-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual differences in the biology of human stem cells are increasingly recognized to influence their proliferation, differentiation and maturation. Especially in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) or ischemic stroke, sex is a key player for disease progression and recovery of damaged tissue. Recently, the glycoprotein hormone erythropoietin (EPO) has been implicated as a regulator of neuronal differentiation and maturation in female rats. METHODS In this study, we used adult human neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs) as a model system for exploring potential sex specific effects of EPO on human neuronal differentiation. We started with expression validation of the specific EPO receptor (EPOR) by performing PCR analysis in the NCSCs. Next, EPO mediated activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) via Immunocytochemistry (ICC) was performed, followed by investigating the sex-specific effects of EPO on neuronal differentiation by determining morphological changes in axonal growth and neurite formation accompanied by ICC. RESULTS Undifferentiated male and female NCSCs showed a ubiquitous expression of the EPO receptor (EPOR). EPO treatment resulted in a statistically profound (male p = 0.0022, female p = 0.0012) nuclear translocation of NF-κB RELA in undifferentiated NCSCs of both sexes. But after one week of neuronal differentiation, we could show a highly significant (p = 0,0079) increase of nuclear NF-κB RELA in females only. In contrast, we observed a strong decrease (p = 0,0022) of RELA activation in male neuronal progenitors. Extending the view on the role of sex during human neuronal differentiation, here we demonstrate a significant increase of axon lengths in female NCSCs-derived neurons upon EPO-treatment (+ EPO: 167,73 (SD = 41,66) µm, w/o EPO: 77,68 (SD = 18,31) µm) compared to their male counterparts (+ EPO: 68,37 (SD = 11,97) µm, w/o EPO: 70,23 (SD = 12,89) µm). CONCLUSION Our present findings therefore show for the first time an EPO-driven sexual dimorphism in neuronal differentiation of human neural-crest derived stem cells and emphasize sex-specific variability as a crucial parameter in stem cell biology and for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Niemann
- Molecular Neurobiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
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6
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Nutrition influences nervous system development by regulating neural stem cell homeostasis. PROCEEDINGS OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL SCIENCE ACADEMY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s43538-022-00107-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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7
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Ghosh-Swaby OR, Reichelt AC, Sheppard PAS, Davies J, Bussey TJ, Saksida LM. Metabolic hormones mediate cognition. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101009. [PMID: 35679900 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent biochemical and behavioural evidence indicates that metabolic hormones not only regulate energy intake and nutrient content, but also modulate plasticity and cognition in the central nervous system. Disruptions in metabolic hormone signalling may provide a link between metabolic syndromes like obesity and diabetes, and cognitive impairment. For example, altered metabolic homeostasis in obesity is a strong determinant of the severity of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disease. Here we review the evidence that eating behaviours and metabolic hormones-particularly ghrelin, leptin, and insulin-are key players in the delicate regulation of neural plasticity and cognition. Caloric restriction and antidiabetic therapies, both of which affect metabolic hormone levels can restore metabolic homeostasis and enhance cognitive function. Thus, metabolic hormone pathways provide a promising target for the treatment of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia R Ghosh-Swaby
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Amy C Reichelt
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul A S Sheppard
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Davies
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Timothy J Bussey
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lisa M Saksida
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
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8
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Zeng YS, Ding Y, Xu HY, Zeng X, Lai BQ, Li G, Ma YH. Electro-acupuncture and its combination with adult stem cell transplantation for spinal cord injury treatment: A summary of current laboratory findings and a review of literature. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:635-647. [PMID: 35174644 PMCID: PMC8981476 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence and disability rate of spinal cord injury (SCI) worldwide are high, imposing a heavy burden on patients. Considerable research efforts have been directed toward identifying new strategies to effectively treat SCI. Governor Vessel electro‐acupuncture (GV‐EA), used in traditional Chinese medicine, combines acupuncture with modern electrical stimulation. It has been shown to improve the microenvironment of injured spinal cord (SC) by increasing levels of endogenous neurotrophic factors and reducing inflammation, thereby protecting injured neurons and promoting myelination. In addition, axons extending from transplanted stem cell‐derived neurons can potentially bridge the two severed ends of tissues in a transected SC to rebuild neuronal circuits and restore motor and sensory functions. However, every single treatment approach to severe SCI has proven unsatisfactory. Combining different treatments—for example, electro‐acupuncture (EA) with adult stem cell transplantation—appears to be a more promising strategy. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress over the past two decades by our team especially in the use of GV‐EA for the repair of SCI. By this strategy, we have shown that EA can stimulate the nerve endings of the meningeal branch. This would elicit the dorsal root ganglion neurons to secrete excess amounts of calcitonin gene‐related peptide centrally in the SC. The neuropeptide then activates the local cells to secrete neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3), which mediates the survival and differentiation of donor stem cells overexpressing the NT‐3 receptor, at the injury/graft site of the SC. Increased local production of NT‐3 facilitates reconstruction of host neural tissue such as nerve fiber regeneration and myelination. All this events in sequence would ultimately strengthen the cortical motor‐evoked potentials and restore the motor function of paralyzed limbs. The information presented herein provides a basis for future studies on the clinical application of GV‐EA and adult stem cell transplantation for the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Shan Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hao-Yu Xu
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bi-Qin Lai
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ge Li
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuan-Huan Ma
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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9
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Estrogen Receptors as Molecular Targets of Endocrine Therapy for Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212404. [PMID: 34830286 PMCID: PMC8626012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormonal factors may participate in the development and progression of glioblastoma, the most aggressive primary tumor of the central nervous system. Many studies have been conducted on the possible involvement of estrogen receptors (ERs) in gliomas. Since there is a tendency for a reduced expression of ERs as the degree of malignancy of such tumors increases, it is important to understand the role of these receptors in the progression and treatment of this disease. ERs belong to the family of nuclear receptors, although they can also be in the plasmatic membrane, cytoplasm and mitochondria. They are classified as estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ER⍺ and ERβ), each with different isoforms that have a distinct function in the organism. ERs regulate multiple physiological and pathological processes through the activation of genomic and nongenomic pathways in the cell. Nevertheless, the role of each isoform in the development and progression of glioblastoma is not completely clear. Diverse in vitro and in vivo studies have shown encouraging results for endocrine therapy as a treatment for gliomas. At the same time, many questions have arisen concerning the nature of ERs as well as the mechanism of action of the proposed drugs. Hence, the aim of the current review is to describe the drugs that could possibly be utilized in endocrine therapy for the treatment of high-grade gliomas, analyze their interaction with ERs, and explore the involvement of these drugs and receptors in resistance to standard chemotherapy.
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10
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Mank JE, Rideout EJ. Developmental mechanisms of sex differences: from cells to organisms. Development 2021; 148:272484. [PMID: 34647574 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Male-female differences in many developmental mechanisms lead to the formation of two morphologically and physiologically distinct sexes. Although this is expected for traits with prominent differences between the sexes, such as the gonads, sex-specific processes also contribute to traits without obvious male-female differences, such as the intestine. Here, we review sex differences in developmental mechanisms that operate at several levels of biological complexity - molecular, cellular, organ and organismal - and discuss how these differences influence organ formation, function and whole-body physiology. Together, the examples we highlight show that one simple way to gain a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of animal development is to include both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith E Mank
- Department of Zoology, Biodiversity Research Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.,Biosciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Elizabeth J Rideout
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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11
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Reuveni M. Sex and Regeneration. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:937. [PMID: 34571814 PMCID: PMC8471910 DOI: 10.3390/biology10090937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Regeneration is usually regarded as a unique plant or some animal species process. In reality, regeneration is a ubiquitous process in all multicellular organisms. It ranges from response to wounding by healing the wounded tissue to whole body neoforming (remaking of the new body). In a larger context, regeneration is one facet of two reproduction schemes that dominate the evolution of life. Multicellular organisms can propagate their genes asexually or sexually. Here I present the view that the ability to regenerate tissue or whole-body regeneration is also determined by the sexual state of the multicellular organisms (from simple animals such as hydra and planaria to plants and complex animals). The above idea is manifested here by showing evidence that many organisms, organs, or tissues show inhibited or diminished regeneration capacity when in reproductive status compared to organs or tissues in nonreproductive conditions or by exposure to sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Reuveni
- Plant Science Institute, ARO, Volcani Institute, 68 Hamakabim Rd., P.O. Box 15159, Rishon LeZion 7528808, Israel
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12
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Carrano A, Juarez JJ, Incontri D, Ibarra A, Cazares HG. Sex-Specific Differences in Glioblastoma. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071783. [PMID: 34359952 PMCID: PMC8303471 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences have been well identified in many brain tumors. Even though glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults and has the worst outcome, well-established differences between men and women are limited to incidence and outcome. Little is known about sex differences in GBM at the disease phenotype and genetical/molecular level. This review focuses on a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of GBM, including hormones, metabolic pathways, the immune system, and molecular changes, along with differences between men and women and how these dimorphisms affect disease outcome. The information analyzed in this review shows a greater incidence and worse outcome in male patients with GBM compared with female patients. We highlight the protective role of estrogen and the upregulation of androgen receptors and testosterone having detrimental effects on GBM. Moreover, hormones and the immune system work in synergy to directly affect the GBM microenvironment. Genetic and molecular differences have also recently been identified. Specific genes and molecular pathways, either upregulated or downregulated depending on sex, could potentially directly dictate GBM outcome differences. It appears that sexual dimorphism in GBM affects patient outcome and requires an individualized approach to management considering the sex of the patient, especially in relation to differences at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Carrano
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
| | - Juan Jose Juarez
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA), FCS, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucan 52786, Edo. de México, Mexico; (J.J.J.); (D.I.); (A.I.)
| | - Diego Incontri
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA), FCS, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucan 52786, Edo. de México, Mexico; (J.J.J.); (D.I.); (A.I.)
| | - Antonio Ibarra
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA), FCS, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucan 52786, Edo. de México, Mexico; (J.J.J.); (D.I.); (A.I.)
| | - Hugo Guerrero Cazares
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
- Correspondence:
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13
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Mouihate A, Kalakh S. Maternal Interleukin-6 Hampers Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Adult Rat Offspring in a Sex-Dependent Manner. Dev Neurosci 2021; 43:106-115. [PMID: 34023825 DOI: 10.1159/000516370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) during pregnancy leads to long-lasting effects on brain development and function. Several lines of evidence suggest that the maternal inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 plays a crucial role in the long-lasting effects of MIA on adult offspring. IL-6 is naturally produced during pregnancy in the absence of any underlying immune activation. The objective of this study was to assess whether this naturally occurring IL-6 has long-lasting effects on brain plasticity and function. Therefore, pregnant rats were given either an IL-6-neutralizing antibody (IL-6Ab) or vehicle during the third week of pregnancy. Newly born (doublecortin) and mature neurons (NeuN) were monitored in the hippocampus of adult male and female offspring. Prenatal IL-6Ab led to an enhanced number of newly born and mature neurons in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus of male but not female adult offspring. This enhanced neurogenesis was associated with an increased propensity in memory acquisition in male offspring. Blunting the naturally occurring IL-6 during pregnancy did not have a significant long-lasting impact on astrocyte cell density (GFAP), or on anxiety-like behavior as assessed with elevated plus maze and open field tests. Taken together, these data suggest that maternal IL-6 contributes, at least in part, to the programming of the brain's development in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
| | - Samah Kalakh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
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14
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Łysiak M, Smits A, Roodakker KR, Sandberg E, Dimberg A, Mudaisi M, Bratthäll C, Strandeus M, Milos P, Hallbeck M, Söderkvist P, Malmström A. Deletions on Chromosome Y and Downregulation of the SRY Gene in Tumor Tissue Are Associated with Worse Survival of Glioblastoma Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071619. [PMID: 33807423 PMCID: PMC8036637 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biological causes of sex disparity seen in the prevalence of cancer, including glioblastoma (GBM), remain poorly understood. One of the considered aspects is the involvement of the sex chromosomes, especially loss of chromosome Y (LOY). METHODS Tumors from 105 isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild type male GBM patients were tested with droplet digital PCR for copy number changes of ten genes on chromosome Y. Decreased gene expression, a proxy of gene loss, was then analyzed in 225 IDH wild type GBM derived from TCGA and overall survival in both cohorts was tested with Kaplan-Meier log-rank analysis and maximally selected rank statistics for cut-off determination. RESULTS LOY was associated with significantly shorter overall survival (7 vs. 14.6 months, p = 0.0016), and among investigated individual genes survival correlated most prominently with loss of the sex-determining region Y gene (SRY) (10.8 vs. 14.8 months, p = 0.0031). Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that epidermal growth factor receptor, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and MYC proto-oncogene signaling pathways are associated with low SRY expression. CONCLUSION Our data show that deletions and reduced gene expression of chromosome Y genes, especially SRY, are associated with reduced survival of male GBM patients and connected to major susceptibility pathways of gliomagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Łysiak
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.Ł.); (P.S.)
| | - Anja Smits
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41345 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden; (K.R.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Kenney Roy Roodakker
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden; (K.R.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Elisabeth Sandberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden; (K.R.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Anna Dimberg
- Institute of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Munila Mudaisi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Department of Oncology in Linköping, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | | | | | - Peter Milos
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Department of Neurosurgery in Linköping, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Martin Hallbeck
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Peter Söderkvist
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.Ł.); (P.S.)
| | - Annika Malmström
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.M.); (P.M.); (M.H.); (A.M.)
- Department of Advanced Home Care, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
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15
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Yoshinari Y, Ameku T, Kondo S, Tanimoto H, Kuraishi T, Shimada-Niwa Y, Niwa R. Neuronal octopamine signaling regulates mating-induced germline stem cell increase in female Drosophila melanogaster. eLife 2020; 9:57101. [PMID: 33077027 PMCID: PMC7591258 DOI: 10.7554/elife.57101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells fuel the development and maintenance of tissues. Many studies have addressed how local signals from neighboring niche cells regulate stem cell identity and their proliferative potential. However, the regulation of stem cells by tissue-extrinsic signals in response to environmental cues remains poorly understood. Here we report that efferent octopaminergic neurons projecting to the ovary are essential for germline stem cell (GSC) increase in response to mating in female Drosophila. The neuronal activity of the octopaminergic neurons is required for mating-induced GSC increase as they relay the mating signal from sex peptide receptor-positive cholinergic neurons. Octopamine and its receptor Oamb are also required for mating-induced GSC increase via intracellular Ca2+ signaling. Moreover, we identified Matrix metalloproteinase-2 as a downstream component of the octopamine-Ca2+ signaling to induce GSC increase. Our study provides a mechanism describing how neuronal system couples stem cell behavior to environmental cues through stem cell niche signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Yoshinari
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tomotsune Ameku
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shu Kondo
- Invertebrate Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Hiromu Tanimoto
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kuraishi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.,AMED-PRIME, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Shimada-Niwa
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ryusuke Niwa
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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La Rosa P, Bartoli G, Farioli Vecchioli S, Cesari E, Pagliarini V, Sette C. Androgen Receptor signaling promotes the neural progenitor cell pool in the developing cortex. J Neurochem 2020; 157:1153-1166. [PMID: 32959393 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Neural Progenitor Cells (NPCs) are multipotent cells that are able to self-renew and differentiate into neurons. The size of the initial pool of NPCs during the brain development strongly affects the number of neurons that compose cortical multi-layer during development. Gonadal hormones can influence the balance between self-renewal and differentiation processes. Herein, we investigated the role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the active metabolite of testosterone, in the regulation of NPC stemness and differentiation. First, we evaluated the expression of the androgen receptor (AR), the transcription factor activated by DHT that mediates the physiological effects of androgens, in NPCs. Western blot analysis showed that DHT-mediated activation of AR induces mitogenic signaling pathways (PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK) in NPCs, whereas luciferase activity assays demonstrated the induction of AR transcriptional activity. AR activation mediated by DHT treatment strongly increased the proliferation of NPCs and reduced their propensity to differentiate into neurons. Furthermore, the effects of AR activation were mediated, at least in part, by increased expression of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Family Member A3 enzyme (ALDH1A3). Pharmacological inhibition of ALDH activity with N,N-diethylaminobenzaldehyde (DEAB) reduced the effect of DHT on NPC proliferation in vitro. Furthermore, inhibition of AR activity by Enzalutamide reduced the NPC pool in the developing cortex of male C57/BL6 mouse embryos. These findings indicate that androgens engage an AR-dependent signaling pathway that impact on neurogenesis by increasing the NPC pool in the developing mouse cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Neuroembryology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Bartoli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Cesari
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittoria Pagliarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Sette
- Laboratory of Neuroembryology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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17
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Hlisníková H, Petrovičová I, Kolena B, Šidlovská M, Sirotkin A. Effects and Mechanisms of Phthalates' Action on Reproductive Processes and Reproductive Health: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6811. [PMID: 32961939 PMCID: PMC7559247 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The production of plastic products, which requires phthalate plasticizers, has resulted in the problems for human health, especially that of reproductive health. Phthalate exposure can induce reproductive disorders at various regulatory levels. The aim of this review was to compile the evidence concerning the association between phthalates and reproductive diseases, phthalates-induced reproductive disorders, and their possible endocrine and intracellular mechanisms. Phthalates may induce alterations in puberty, the development of testicular dysgenesis syndrome, cancer, and fertility disorders in both males and females. At the hormonal level, phthalates can modify the release of hypothalamic, pituitary, and peripheral hormones. At the intracellular level, phthalates can interfere with nuclear receptors, membrane receptors, intracellular signaling pathways, and modulate gene expression associated with reproduction. To understand and to treat the adverse effects of phthalates on human health, it is essential to expand the current knowledge concerning their mechanism of action in the organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrieta Hlisníková
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 949 74 Nitra, Slovakia; (I.P.); (B.K.); (M.Š.); (A.S.)
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18
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Nieves MD, Furmanski O, Doughty ML. Host sex and transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cell phenotype interact to influence sensorimotor recovery in a mouse model of cortical contusion injury. Brain Res 2020; 1748:147120. [PMID: 32926852 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a substantial cause of disability and death worldwide. Primary head trauma triggers chronic secondary injury mechanisms in the brain that are a focus of therapeutic efforts to treat TBI. Currently, there is no successful clinical strategy to repair brain injury. Cell transplantation therapies have demonstrated promise in attenuating secondary injury mechanisms of neuronal death and dysfunction in animal models of brain injury. In this study, we used a unilateral cortical contusion injury (CCI) model of sensorimotor brain injury to examine the effects of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) transplantation on pathology in male and female adult mice. We determined transplanted hiPSC-derived neural stem cells (NSCs) and neuroblasts but not astrocytes best tolerate the injured host environment. Surviving NSC and neuroblast cells were clustered at the site of injection within the deep layers of the cortex and underlying corpus callosum. Cell grafts extended neuritic processes that crossed the midline into the contralateral corpus callosum or continued laterally within the external capsule to enter the ipsilateral entorhinal cortex. To determine the effect of transplantation on neuropathology, we performed sensorimotor behavior testing and stereological estimation of host neurons, astrocytes, and microglia within the contused cortex. These measures did not reveal a consistent effect of transplantation on recovery post-injury. Rather the positive and negative effects of cell transplantation were dependent on the host sex, highlighting the importance of developing patient-specific approaches to treat TBI. Our study underscores the complex interactions of sex, neuroimmune responses and cell therapy in a common experimental model of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Nieves
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Orion Furmanski
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Martin L Doughty
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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19
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Schumacher M, Liere P, Ghoumari A. Progesterone and fetal-neonatal neuroprotection. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 69:50-61. [PMID: 33039311 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The role of progesterone goes beyond the maintenance of pregnancy. The hormone, indeed, protects the developing fetal brain and influences its maturation. Metabolomes analyzed by mass spectrometric methods have revealed the great diversity of steroids in maternal plasma and fetal fluids, but their developmental significance remains to be investigated. Progesterone and its metabolites reach highest levels during the third trimester, when the brain growth spurt occurs: its volume triples, synaptogenesis is particularly active, and axons start to be myelinated. This developmental stage coincides with a period of great vulnerability. Studies in sheep have shown that progesterone and its metabolite allopregnanolone protect the vulnerable fetal brain. Work in rats and mice have demonstrated that progesterone plays an important role in myelin formation. These experimental studies are discussed in relation to preterm birth. Influences of progesterone on very early stages of neural development at the beginning of pregnancy are yet to be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schumacher
- U1195 "Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System", Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80, Rue Du Général Leclerc, 94276, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Philippe Liere
- U1195 "Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System", Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80, Rue Du Général Leclerc, 94276, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Abdelmoumen Ghoumari
- U1195 "Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System", Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80, Rue Du Général Leclerc, 94276, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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20
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Abstract
The hippocampus is central to spatial learning and stress responsiveness, both of which differ in form and function in males versus females, yet precisely how the hippocampus contributes to these sex differences is largely unknown. In reproductively mature individuals, sex differences in the steroid hormone milieu undergirds many sex differences in hippocampal-related endpoints. However, there is also evidence for developmental programming of adult hippocampal function, with a central role for androgens as well as their aromatized byproduct, estrogens. These include sex differences in cell genesis, synapse formation, dendritic arborization, and excitatory/inhibitory balance. Enduring effects of steroid hormone modulation occur during two developmental epochs, the first being the classic perinatal critical period of sexual differentiation of the brain and the other being adolescence and the associated hormonal changes of puberty. The cellular mechanisms by which steroid hormones enduringly modify hippocampal form and function are poorly understood, but we here review what is known and highlight where attention should be focused.
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21
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Greiner JFW, Merten M, Kaltschmidt C, Kaltschmidt B. Sexual dimorphisms in adult human neural, mesoderm-derived, and neural crest-derived stem cells. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:3338-3352. [PMID: 31529465 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sexual dimorphisms contribute, at least in part, to the severity and occurrence of a broad range of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and bone disorders. In addition to hormonal factors, increasing evidence suggests that stem cell-intrinsic mechanisms account for sex-specific differences in human physiology and pathology. Here, we discuss sex-related intrinsic mechanisms in adult stem cell populations, namely mesoderm-derived stem cells, neural stem cells (NSCs), and neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs), and their implications for stem cell differentiation and regeneration. We particularly focus on sex-specific differences in stem cell-mediated bone regeneration, in neuronal development, and in NSC-mediated neuroprotection. Moreover, we review our own recently published observations regarding the sex-dependent role of NF-κB-p65 in neuroprotection of human NCSC-derived neurons and sex differences in NCSC-related disorders, so-called neurocristopathies. These observations are in accordance with the increasing evidence pointing toward sex-specific differences in neurocristopathies and degenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease or osteoporosis. All findings discussed here indicate that sex-specific variability in stem cell biology may become a crucial parameter for the design of future treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madlen Merten
- Molecular Neurobiology, Bielefeld University, Germany
| | | | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Bielefeld University, Germany.,Molecular Neurobiology, Bielefeld University, Germany
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