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Zhao P, Guo C, Du H, Xiao Y, Su J, Wang X, Yeung WSB, Li G, Wang T. Chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and protective strategies. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:887-900. [PMID: 38054300 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2275764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
More than 9.2 million women worldwide suffer from cancer, and about 5% of them are at reproductive age. Chemotherapy-induced impairment of fertility affects the quality of life of these women. Several chemotherapeutic agents have been proven to cause apoptosis and autophagy by inducing DNA damage and cellular stress. Injuries to the ovarian stroma and micro-vessel network are also considered as pivotal factors resulting in ovarian dysfunction induced by chemotherapeutic agents. Primordial follicle pool over-activation may also be the mechanism inducing damage to the ovarian reserve. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms involved in chemotherapy-induced reproductive toxicity, the exact molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. It is essential to understand the mechanisms involved in ovarian damage, in order to develop potential protective treatments to preserve fertility. In this article, we reviewed the current knowledge on the mechanism of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and possible protective strategies that prevent the ovary from such damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peikun Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Chenxi Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Huijia Du
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Yuan Xiao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jiaping Su
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Willian S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Guangxin Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
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Kim S, Lee S, Park HT, Song JY, Kim T. Genomic Consideration in Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Damage and Fertility Preservation. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1525. [PMID: 34680919 PMCID: PMC8535252 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and fertility preservation in young patients with cancer are emerging disciplines. The mechanism of treatment-related gonadal damage provides important information for targeting prevention methods. The genomic aspects of ovarian damage after chemotherapy are not fully understood. Several studies have demonstrated that gene alterations related to follicular apoptosis or accelerated follicle activation are related to ovarian insufficiency and susceptibility to ovarian damage following chemotherapy. This may accelerate follicular apoptosis and follicle reservoir utilization and damage the ovarian stroma via multiple molecular reactions after chemotherapy. This review highlights the importance of genomic considerations in chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and multidisciplinary oncofertility strategies for providing high-quality care to young female cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongmin Kim
- Gynecologic Cancer Center, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University College of Medicine, 1205 Jungang-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si 10414, Korea;
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Hyun-Tae Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Jae-Yun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Tak Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
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Kim S, Kim SW, Han SJ, Lee S, Park HT, Song JY, Kim T. Molecular Mechanism and Prevention Strategy of Chemotherapy- and Radiotherapy-Induced Ovarian Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147484. [PMID: 34299104 PMCID: PMC8305189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is an emerging discipline, which is of substantial clinical value in the care of young patients with cancer. Chemotherapy and radiation may induce ovarian damage in prepubertal girls and young women. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms implicated in ovarian toxicity during cancer treatment, its molecular pathophysiology is not fully understood. Chemotherapy may accelerate follicular apoptosis and follicle reservoir utilization and damage the ovarian stroma via multiple molecular reactions. Oxidative stress and the radiosensitivity of oocytes are the main causes of gonadal damage after radiation treatment. Fertility preservation options can be differentiated by patient age, desire for conception, treatment regimen, socioeconomic status, and treatment duration. This review will help highlight the importance of multidisciplinary oncofertility strategies for providing high-quality care to young female cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongmin Kim
- Gynecologic Cancer Center, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University College of Medicine, 1205 Jungang-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si 10414, Korea;
| | - Sung-Woo Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea; (S.-W.K.); (S.-J.H.)
| | - Soo-Jin Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea; (S.-W.K.); (S.-J.H.)
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-920-6773
| | - Hyun-Tae Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Jae-Yun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Tak Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
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Spears N, Lopes F, Stefansdottir A, Rossi V, De Felici M, Anderson RA, Klinger FG. Ovarian damage from chemotherapy and current approaches to its protection. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:673-693. [PMID: 31600388 PMCID: PMC6847836 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-cancer therapy is often a cause of premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility since the ovarian follicle reserve is extremely sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. While oocyte, embryo and ovarian cortex cryopreservation can help some women with cancer-induced infertility achieve pregnancy, the development of effective methods to protect ovarian function during chemotherapy would be a significant advantage. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This paper critically discusses the different damaging effects of the most common chemotherapeutic compounds on the ovary, in particular, the ovarian follicles and the molecular pathways that lead to that damage. The mechanisms through which fertility-protective agents might prevent chemotherapy drug-induced follicle loss are then reviewed. SEARCH METHODS Articles published in English were searched on PubMed up to March 2019 using the following terms: ovary, fertility preservation, chemotherapy, follicle death, adjuvant therapy, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, doxorubicin. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to the analysis of the protective agents. OUTCOMES Recent studies reveal how chemotherapeutic drugs can affect the different cellular components of the ovary, causing rapid depletion of the ovarian follicular reserve. The three most commonly used drugs, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin and doxorubicin, cause premature ovarian insufficiency by inducing death and/or accelerated activation of primordial follicles and increased atresia of growing follicles. They also cause an increase in damage to blood vessels and the stromal compartment and increment inflammation. In the past 20 years, many compounds have been investigated as potential protective agents to counteract these adverse effects. The interactions of recently described fertility-protective agents with these damage pathways are discussed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Understanding the mechanisms underlying the action of chemotherapy compounds on the various components of the ovary is essential for the development of efficient and targeted pharmacological therapies that could protect and prolong female fertility. While there are increasing preclinical investigations of potential fertility preserving adjuvants, there remains a lack of approaches that are being developed and tested clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Spears
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | - F Lopes
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | | | - V Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - R A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | - F G Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Blumenfeld Z. Fertility Preservation in Women With Malignancy: Future Endeavors. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2019; 13:1179558119872490. [PMID: 31548799 PMCID: PMC6743198 DOI: 10.1177/1179558119872490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The area of fertility preservation is constantly developing. To date, the only
noninvestigational and unequivocally accepted methods for fertility preservation
are cryopreservation of embryos and unfertilized oocytes. This article is one of
several in a monogram on fertility preservation. The debate, pros and cons, and
equivocal data on the use of GnRH analogues for fertility preservation are
elaborated by 3 other manuscripts, in this monogram. A repeat of the arguments,
pros and cons of this debatable issue, would be a repetition and redundancy of
what is already included in this monogram. The subject of ovarian
cryopreservation for fertility preservation is also elaborated by several other
authors in this monogram. It is possible that, in the not too far future, the
technologies of in vitro maturation of primordial follicles to metaphase 2
oocytes, and the “artificial ovary,” will turn clinically available. These
technologies may bypass the risk of resuming malignancy by autotransplantation
of cryopreserved-thawed ovarian tissue in leukemia and diseases where malignant
cells may persist in the cryopreserved ovarian tissue. We summarize here the
suggested options for future endeavors in fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Blumenfeld
- Reproductive Endocrinology, Ob/Gyn, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Ney Y, Jawad Nasim M, Kharma A, Youssef LA, Jacob C. Small Molecule Catalysts with Therapeutic Potential. Molecules 2018; 23:E765. [PMID: 29584669 PMCID: PMC6017662 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Catalysts are employed in many areas of research and development where they combine high efficiency with often astonishing selectivity for their respective substrates. In biology, biocatalysts are omnipresent. Enzymes facilitate highly controlled, sophisticated cellular processes, such as metabolic conversions, sensing and signalling, and are prominent targets in drug development. In contrast, the therapeutic use of catalysts per se is still rather limited. Recent research has shown that small molecule catalytic agents able to modulate the redox state of the target cell bear considerable promise, particularly in the context of inflammatory and infectious diseases, stroke, ageing and even cancer. Rather than being "active" on their own in a more traditional sense, such agents develop their activity by initiating, promoting, enhancing or redirecting reactions between biomolecules already present in the cell, and their activity therefore depends critically on the predisposition of the target cell itself. Redox catalysts, for instance, preferably target cells with a distinct sensitivity towards changes in an already disturbed redox balance and/or increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Indeed, certain transition metal, chalcogen and quinone agents may activate an antioxidant response in normal cells whilst at the same time triggering apoptosis in cancer cells with a different pre-existing "biochemical redox signature" and closer to the internal redox threshold. In pharmacy, catalysts therefore stand out as promising lead structures, as sensor/effector agents which are highly effective, fairly selective, active in catalytic, i.e., often nanomolar concentrations and also very flexible in their structural design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Ney
- Division of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, D-66123 Saarbruecken, Germany.
| | - Muhammad Jawad Nasim
- Division of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, D-66123 Saarbruecken, Germany.
| | - Ammar Kharma
- Division of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, D-66123 Saarbruecken, Germany.
| | - Lama A Youssef
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria.
| | - Claus Jacob
- Division of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, D-66123 Saarbruecken, Germany.
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Melatonin and Fertoprotective Adjuvants: Prevention against Premature Ovarian Failure during Chemotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18061221. [PMID: 28590419 PMCID: PMC5486044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure is one of the side effects of chemotherapy in pre-menopausal cancer patients. Preservation of fertility has become increasingly important in improving the quality of life of completely recovered cancer patients. Among the possible strategies for preserving fertility such as ovarian tissue cryopreservation, co-treatment with a pharmacological adjuvant is highly effective and poses less of a burden on the human body. Melatonin is generally produced in various tissues and acts as a universally acting antioxidant in cells. Melatonin is now more widely used in various biological processes including treating insomnia and an adjuvant during chemotherapy. In this review, we summarize the information indicating that melatonin may be useful for reducing and preventing premature ovarian failure in chemotherapy-treated female patients. We also mention that many adjuvants other than melatonin are developed and used to inhibit chemotherapy-induced infertility. This information will give us novel insights on the clinical use of melatonin and other agents as fertoprotective adjuvants for female cancer patients.
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8
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Prevention of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:20-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Roness H, Kalich-Philosoph L, Meirow D. Prevention of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage: possible roles for hormonal and non-hormonal attenuating agents. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:759-74. [PMID: 24833728 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current options for female fertility preservation in the face of cytotoxic treatments include embryo, oocyte and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. However these methods are limited by the patient age, status or available timeframe before treatment and they necessitate invasive procedures. Agents which can prevent or attenuate the ovotoxic effects of treatment would provide significant advantages over the existing fertility preservation techniques, and would allow patients to retain their natural fertility without the necessity for costly, invasive and risky procedures. Recent studies have contributed to our understanding of the mechanisms involved in cytotoxicity-induced ovarian follicle loss and highlight a number of agents that may be able to prevent or reduce this loss. METHODS This paper reviews the relevant literature (research articles published in English up to December 2013) on the mechanisms of cytotoxic-induced ovarian damage and the implications for fertility preservation. We present a comprehensive discussion of the potential agents that have been shown to preserve the ovarian follicle reserve in the face of cytotoxic treatments, including an analysis of their respective advantages and risks, and mechanisms of action. RESULTS Multiple molecular pathways are involved in the cellular response to cytotoxic treatments, and specific cellular reactions depend on variables including the drug class and dose, cell type, and cell stage. A number of agents acting on different elements of these pathways have demonstrated potential for preventing or reducing ovarian follicle loss, although in most cases, the studies are still very preliminary. CONCLUSIONS Advances in our understanding of the mechanisms and pathways involved in both cytotoxic ovarian damage and follicle growth and development have opened up new directions for fertility preservation. In order to bring these agents from the lab to the clinic, it will be vital to accurately evaluate the efficacy of each agent and additionally to demonstrate that co-treatment with these agents will not interfere with the anti-cancer activity of the chemotherapy drugs, or produce genetically comprised embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadassa Roness
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel
| | - Lital Kalich-Philosoph
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel The Safdie Institute for AIDS and Immunology Research, The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University Ramat-Gan, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Dror Meirow
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Kalich-Philosoph L, Roness H, Carmely A, Fishel-Bartal M, Ligumsky H, Paglin S, Wolf I, Kanety H, Sredni B, Meirow D. Cyclophosphamide triggers follicle activation and "burnout"; AS101 prevents follicle loss and preserves fertility. Sci Transl Med 2014; 5:185ra62. [PMID: 23677591 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3005402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure and infertility are major side effects of chemotherapy treatments in young cancer patients. A more thorough understanding of the mechanism behind chemotherapy-induced follicle loss is necessary to develop new methods to preserve fertility in these patients. We show that the alkylating agent cyclophosphamide (Cy) activates the growth of the quiescent primordial follicle population in mice, resulting in loss of ovarian reserve. Despite the initial massive apoptosis observed in growing, though not in resting, follicles of Cy-treated mice, differential follicle counts demonstrated both a decrease in primordial follicles and an increase in early growing follicles. Immunohistochemistry showed that granulosa cells were undergoing proliferation. Analysis of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathway demonstrated that Cy increased phosphorylation of proteins that stimulate follicle activation in the oocytes and granulosa cells. Coadministration of an immunomodulator, AS101, reduced follicle activation, thereby increasing follicle reserve and rescuing fertility after Cy, and also increased the efficacy of Cy against breast cancer cell lines. These findings suggest that the mechanism in Cy-induced loss of ovarian reserve is accelerated primordial follicle activation, which results in a "burnout" effect and follicle depletion. By preventing this activation, AS101 shows potential as an ovarian-protective agent, which may be able to preserve fertility in female cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lital Kalich-Philosoph
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel
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Carmely A, Meirow D, Peretz A, Albeck M, Bartoov B, Sredni B. Protective effect of the immunomodulator AS101 against cyclophosphamide-induced testicular damage in mice. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1322-9. [PMID: 19240057 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclophosphamide (Cy), a widely used anticancer drug, is associated with significant testicular damage and sterility. Co-administration of the immunomodulating compound AS101 during chemotherapy treatments was previously shown to protect organs against cytotoxic damage, without attenuating the drug's anticancer effect. In this animal study, we investigated the effect of AS101 on testicular damage, sperm DNA damage and infertility induced by Cy. Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta) phosphorylation were investigated as a possible chemoprotective mechanism. METHODS Mature male mice, 10 in each group, were injected intraperitoneally with 200 mg/kg Cy once a week for 5 weeks, with or without concurrent treatment with 10 microg per mouse AS101 three times per week. Damage to testicular tubules and sperm production was determined, sperm chromatin damage was analyzed and fertility was gauged. Akt and GSK-3beta phosphorylation were evaluated. RESULTS Co-treatment with AS101 during the course of Cy administration significantly reduced the percentage of damaged seminiferous tubules (76.0 +/- 10.8% versus 40.3 +/- 2.6%), and reduced sperm DNA fragmentation (%DFI) from 44.7 +/- 1.0% to 25 +/- 6.5%. Co-treatment with AS101 also partially protected against the decrease in numbers of impregnated females and litter size. AS101 increased Akt and GSK-3beta phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that AS101 can significantly protect against Cy-induced testicular damage and sperm DNA damage, probably by acting through Akt/GSK-3beta phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Carmely
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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12
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Persike DS, Cunha RLOR, Juliano L, Silva IR, Rosim FE, Vignoli T, Dona F, Cavalheiro EA, Fernandes MJDS. Protective effect of the organotelluroxetane RF-07 in pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus. Neurobiol Dis 2008; 31:120-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2008.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2007] [Revised: 02/19/2008] [Accepted: 04/10/2008] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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13
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Okun E, Arumugam TV, Tang SC, Gleichmann M, Albeck M, Sredni B, Mattson MP. The organotellurium compound ammonium trichloro(dioxoethylene-0,0') tellurate enhances neuronal survival and improves functional outcome in an ischemic stroke model in mice. J Neurochem 2007; 102:1232-41. [PMID: 17542809 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2007.04615.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ammonium trichloro(dioxoethylene-0,0') tellurate (AS101) is a non-toxic organotellurium compound with pleiotropic activities. It was recently shown to induce production of the neurotrophic factor glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and to rescue neuronal-like PC-12 cells from neurotrophic factor deprivation-induced apoptosis. In this study, we show that AS101 improves functional outcome and reduces brain damage in a mouse model of focal ischemic stroke. Both pre-stroke and post-stroke intraperitoneal treatments with AS101 reduced infarct size and edema and improved the neurological function of the animals. AS101 treatments reduced both apoptotic and inflammatory caspase activities, and also inhibited protein tyrosine nitration suggesting that AS101 suppresses oxidative stress. Studies of cultured neurons showed that AS101 confers protection against apoptosis induced by either glucose deprivation or the lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal. Moreover, AS101 treatment reduced glutamate-induced intracellular calcium elevation, a major contributor to neuronal death in stroke. As AS101 has an excellent safety profile in humans, our pre-clinical data suggest a potential therapeutic benefit of AS101 in patients suffering from stroke and other neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eitan Okun
- CAIR Institute, Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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14
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Brodsky M, Yosef S, Galit R, Albeck M, Longo DL, Albeck A, Sredni B. The Synthetic Tellurium Compound, AS101, Is a Novel Inhibitor of IL-1βConverting Enzyme. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2007; 27:453-62. [PMID: 17572009 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2007.0168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The organotellurium compound, trichloro(dioxoethylene-O,O') tellurate (AS101) has been shown previously to exert diverse biologic activities both in vitro and in vivo. This compound was recently found to react with thiols and to catalyze their oxidation. This property of AS101 raises the possibility that it may serve as a cysteine protease inhibitor. In the present study, using a substrate-specific enzymatic assay, we show that treatment of caspase-1 (interleukin-1beta [IL-1beta] converting enzyme [ICE]) with AS101 inhibits its enzymatic activity in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the results show that AS101 treatment causes a significant reduction in the active form of IL-18 and IL-1beta in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and in human HaCat keratinocytes. We further demonstrate that the inhibitory effect of AS101 does not involve nitric oxide (NO) or interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), two possible regulators of IL-18 production, and does not occur at the mRNA level, suggesting a posttranscriptional mechanism of action. More importantly, AS101 downregulates IL-18 and IL-1beta serum levels in a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis, resulting in increased survival. Recent studies emphasize the pathophysiologic role of IL-18 and IL-1beta in a variety of inflammatory diseases. Thus, their blockage by the nontoxic compound, AS101, currently used in clinical studies, may provide clinical advantage in the treatment of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miri Brodsky
- C.A.I.R. Institute, The Safdié AIDS and Immunology Research Center, The Mina & Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
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15
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Sredni B, Geffen-Aricha R, Duan W, Albeck M, Shalit F, Lander HM, Kinor N, Sagi O, Albeck A, Yosef S, Brodsky M, Sredni-Kenigsbuch D, Sonino T, Longo DL, Mattson MP, Yadid G. Multifunctional tellurium molecule protects and restores dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease models. FASEB J 2007; 21:1870-83. [PMID: 17314138 DOI: 10.1096/fj.06-7500com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In Parkinson's disease (PD) dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) become dysfunctional and many ultimately die. We report that the tellurium immunomodulating compound ammonium trichloro(dioxoethylene-O,O'-)tellurate (AS101) protects dopaminergic neurons and improves motor function in animal models of PD. It is effective when administered systemically or by direct infusion into the brain. Multifunctional activities of AS101 were identified in this study. These were mainly due to the peculiar Tellur(IV)-thiol chemistry of the compound, which enabled the compound to interact with cysteine residues on both inflammatory and apoptotic caspases, resulting in their inactivation. Conversely, its interaction with a key cysteine residue on p21(ras), led to its activation, an obligatory activity for AS101-induced neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, AS101 inhibited IL-10, resulting in up-regulation of GDNF in the SN. This was associated with activation of the neuroprotective kinases Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinases, and up-regulation of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. Inhibition of caspase-1 and caspase-3 activities were associated with decreased neuronal death and inhibition of IL-1beta. We suggest that, because multiple mechanisms are involved in the dysfunction and death of neurons in PD, use of a multifunctional compound, exerting antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic-inducing capabilities may be potentially efficacious for the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Sredni
- CAIR Institute, The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Keren Hayessod St., Ramat Gan, Israel.
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Chien CL, Liu TC, Ho CL, Lu KS. Overexpression of neuronal intermediate filament protein alpha-internexin in PC12 cells. J Neurosci Res 2005; 80:693-706. [PMID: 15880430 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The neuronal intermediate filaments include not only the neurofilament triplet proteins but also peripherin and alpha-internexin. To determine whether neurite outgrowth is enhanced by alpha-internexin, the cDNA of rat alpha-internexin tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) was transfected into a rat adrenal pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 that responds to nerve growth factor (NGF) by induction of the neuronal phenotype. Selected stable clones were induced by NGF and examined for expression patterns of neuronal intermediate filaments by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Differentiating neurons were also collected after NGF induction for RT-PCR analysis. Overexpressed alpha-internexin-EGFPs were found mainly in cell bodies and the proximal part of neurites. It was also found that overexpression of alpha-internexin-EGFPs enhanced the neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells at the early stages of NGF induction. Meantime, NF-L and NF-M were upregulated by the overexpression of alpha-internexin-EGFPs. Interestingly, alpha-internexin-EGFP-transfected cells obviously detached from culture plates at the later stages of NGF induction. Massive IF accumulations, swelling mitochondria, and degenerating neurites with numerous electron-dense granules were observed ultrastructurally in the alpha-internexin-EGFP-transfected cells. In addition, neuronal death was also characterized positively by the TUNEL assay. These observations may imply that cell death was occurring in alpha-internexin-EGFP-transfected cells. From this study, it could be suggested that alpha-internexin plays an important role in neurite outgrowth and regulates the expression of other neurofilaments during neuronal development. Apoptosis-like cell death could also be induced by the overexpression of alpha-internexin-EGFP in PC12 cells after NGF induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Liang Chien
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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