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Zallar L, Rivera-Irizarry J, Hamor P, Pigulevskiy I, Liu D, Welday J, Rico Rozo A, Bender R, Asfouri J, Levine O, Skelly M, Hadley C, Fecteau K, Mehanna H, Nelson S, Miller J, Ghazal P, Bellotti P, Singh A, Hollmer L, Erikson D, Geri J, Pleil K. Rapid nongenomic estrogen signaling controls alcohol drinking behavior. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.02.565358. [PMID: 37961707 PMCID: PMC10635092 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.02.565358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian-derived estrogen is a key modulator of numerous physiological processes via genomic and nongenomic mechanisms, including signaling non-canonically at membrane-associated estrogen receptors in the brain to rapidly regulate neuronal function. However, the mechanisms mediating estrogen regulation of behaviors such as alcohol consumption remain unclear. Early alcohol drinking confers greater risk for alcohol use disorder in women than men, and binge alcohol drinking is correlated with high circulating estrogen levels, but a causal role for estrogen signaling in driving alcohol drinking in gonadally-intact animals has not been established. We found that female mice displayed greater binge alcohol drinking and reduced avoidance behavior when circulating estrogen was high during the proestrus phase of the estrous cycle than when it was low, contributing to sex differences in these behaviors. The pro-drinking, but not anxiolytic, effect of high endogenous estrogen state occurred via rapid estrogen signaling at membrane-associated estrogen receptor alpha in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, which promoted synaptic excitation of corticotropin-releasing factor neurons and facilitated their activity during alcohol drinking behavior. This study is the first to demonstrate a rapid, nongenomic signaling mechanism for ovarian-derived estrogen signaling in the brain controlling behavior in gonadally intact females, and it establishes a causal role for estrogen in an intact hormonal context for driving alcohol consumption that contributes to known sex differences in this behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- L.J. Zallar
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - J.K. Rivera-Irizarry
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - P.U. Hamor
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - I. Pigulevskiy
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - D. Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - J.P. Welday
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - A.S. Rico Rozo
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - R. Bender
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - J. Asfouri
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - O.B. Levine
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - M.J. Skelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - C.K. Hadley
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - K.M. Fecteau
- Endocrine Technologies Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - H. Mehanna
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - S. Nelson
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - J. Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - P. Ghazal
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - P. Bellotti
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - A. Singh
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - L.V. Hollmer
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - D.W. Erikson
- Endocrine Technologies Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - J. Geri
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - K.E. Pleil
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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Davis D, Dovey J, Sagoshi S, Thaweepanyaporn K, Ogawa S, Vasudevan N. Steroid hormone-mediated regulation of sexual and aggressive behaviour by non-genomic signalling. Steroids 2023; 200:109324. [PMID: 37820890 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Sex and aggression are well studied examples of social behaviours that are common to most animals and are mediated by an evolutionary conserved group of interconnected nuclei in the brain called the social behaviour network. Though glucocorticoids and in particular estrogen regulate these social behaviours, their effects in the brain are generally thought to be mediated by genomic signalling, a slow transcriptional regulation mediated by nuclear hormone receptors. In the last decade or so, there has been renewed interest in understanding the physiological significance of rapid, non-genomic signalling mediated by steroids. Though the identity of the membrane hormone receptors that mediate this signalling is not clearly understood and appears to be different in different cell types, such signalling contributes to physiologically relevant behaviours such as sex and aggression. In this short review, we summarise the evidence for this phenomenon in the rodent, by focusing on estrogen and to some extent, glucocorticoid signalling. The use of these signals, in relation to genomic signalling is manifold and ranges from potentiation of transcription to the possible transduction of environmental signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- DeAsia Davis
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Janine Dovey
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Shoko Sagoshi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, United States; Laboratory of Behavioural Neuroendocrinology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Sonoko Ogawa
- Laboratory of Behavioural Neuroendocrinology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Nandini Vasudevan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, United Kingdom.
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Heimovics S, Rubin N, Ford M. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) increases undirected singing behavior and alters dopaminergic regulation of undirected song in non-breeding male European starlings ( Sturnus vulgaris). Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1153085. [PMID: 37234810 PMCID: PMC10206333 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1153085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction It has been proposed that in species that defend territories across multiple life history stages, brain metabolism of adrenal dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) regulates aggressive behavior at times when gonadal androgen synthesis is low (i.e. the non-breeding season). To date, a role for DHEA in the regulation of other forms of social behavior that are expressed outside of the context of breeding remains unknown. Methods In this experiment, we used the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) model system to investigate a role for DHEA in the neuroendocrine regulation of singing behavior by males in non-breeding condition. Starling song in a non-breeding context is spontaneous, not directed towards conspecifics, and functions to maintain cohesion of overwintering flocks. Results Using within-subjects design, we found that DHEA implants significantly increase undirected singing behavior by non-breeding condition male starlings. Given that DHEA is known to modulate multiple neurotransmitter systems including dopamine (DA) and DA regulates undirected song, we subsequently used immunohistochemistry for phosphorylated tyrosine hydroxylase (pTH, the active form of the rate-limiting enzyme in DA synthesis) to investigate the effect of DHEA on dopaminergic regulation of singing behavior in a non-breeding context. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive linear association between undirected singing behavior and pTH immunoreactivity in the ventral tegmental area and midbrain central gray of DHEA-implanted, but not control-implanted, males. Discussion Taken together, these data suggest that undirected singing behavior by non-breeding starlings is modulated by effects of DHEA on dopaminergic neurotransmission. More broadly, these data expand the social behavior functions of DHEA beyond territorial aggression to include undirected, affiliative social communication.
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Kumar R, Fatima F, Yadav G, Singh S, Haldar S, Alexiou A, Ashraf GM. Epigenetic Modifications by Estrogen and Androgen in Alzheimer's Disease. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2023; 22:6-17. [PMID: 35232367 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220225110501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
For the development and maintenance of neuron networks in the brain, epigenetic mechanisms are necessary, as indicated by recent findings. This includes some of the high-order brain processes, such as behavior and cognitive functions. Epigenetic mechanisms could influence the pathophysiology or etiology of some neuronal diseases, altering disease susceptibility and therapy responses. Recent studies support epigenetic dysfunctions in neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). These dysfunctions in epigenetic mechanisms also play crucial roles in the transgenerational effects of the environment on the brain and subsequently in the inheritance of pathologies. The possible role of gonadal steroids in the etiology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, has become the subject of a growing body of research over the last 20 years. Recent scientific findings suggest that epigenetic changes, driven by estrogen and androgens, play a vital role in brain functioning. Therefore, exploring the role of estrogen and androgen-based epigenetic changes in the brain is critical for the deeper understanding of AD. This review highlights the epigenetic modifications caused by these two gonadal steroids and the possible therapeutic strategies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Kumar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Faiza Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Garima Yadav
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Simran Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Subhagata Haldar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, 2770 NSW, Australia, and AFNP Med Austria, 1010 Wien, Austria
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Johnson CS, Mermelstein PG. The interaction of membrane estradiol receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors in adaptive and maladaptive estradiol-mediated motivated behaviors in females. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:33-91. [PMID: 36868633 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptors were initially identified as intracellular, ligand-regulated transcription factors that result in genomic change upon ligand binding. However, rapid estrogen receptor signaling initiated outside of the nucleus was also known to occur via mechanisms that were less clear. Recent studies indicate that these traditional receptors, estrogen receptor α and estrogen receptor β, can also be trafficked to act at the surface membrane. Signaling cascades from these membrane-bound estrogen receptors (mERs) can rapidly alter cellular excitability and gene expression, particularly through the phosphorylation of CREB. A principal mechanism of neuronal mER action has been shown to occur through glutamate-independent transactivation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu), which elicits multiple signaling outcomes. The interaction of mERs with mGlu has been shown to be important in many diverse functions in females, including driving motivated behaviors. Experimental evidence suggests that a large part of estradiol-induced neuroplasticity and motivated behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, occurs through estradiol-dependent mER activation of mGlu. Herein we will review signaling through estrogen receptors, both "classical" nuclear receptors and membrane-bound receptors, as well as estradiol signaling through mGlu. We will focus on how the interactions of these receptors and their downstream signaling cascades are involved in driving motivated behaviors in females, discussing a representative adaptive motivated behavior (reproduction) and maladaptive motivated behavior (addiction).
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Johnson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
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Sex Differences in Psychostimulant Abuse: Implications for Estrogen Receptors and Histone Deacetylases. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050892. [PMID: 35627277 PMCID: PMC9140379 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Substance abuse is a chronic pathological disorder that negatively affects many health and neurological processes. A growing body of literature has revealed gender differences in substance use. Compared to men, women display distinct drug-use phenotypes accompanied by recovery and rehabilitation disparities. These observations have led to the notion that sex-dependent susceptibilities exist along the progression to addiction. Within this scope, neuroadaptations following psychostimulant exposure are thought to be distinct for each sex. This review summarizes clinical findings and animal research reporting sex differences in the subjective and behavioral responses to cocaine, methamphetamine, and nicotine. This discussion is followed by an examination of epigenetic and molecular alterations implicated in the addiction process. Special consideration is given to histone deacetylases and estrogen receptor-mediated gene expression.
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7
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Johnson CS, Micevych PE, Mermelstein PG. Membrane estrogen signaling in female reproduction and motivation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1009379. [PMID: 36246891 PMCID: PMC9557733 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1009379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptors were initially identified in the uterus, and later throughout the brain and body as intracellular, ligand-regulated transcription factors that affect genomic change upon ligand binding. However, rapid estrogen receptor signaling initiated outside of the nucleus was also known to occur via mechanisms that were less clear. Recent studies indicate that these traditional receptors, estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-β, can also be trafficked to act at the surface membrane. Signaling cascades from these membrane-bound estrogen receptors (mERs) not only rapidly effect cellular excitability, but can and do ultimately affect gene expression, as seen through the phosphorylation of CREB. A principal mechanism of neuronal mER action is through glutamate-independent transactivation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), which elicits multiple signaling outcomes. The interaction of mERs with mGluRs has been shown to be important in many diverse functions in females, including, but not limited to, reproduction and motivation. Here we review membrane-initiated estrogen receptor signaling in females, with a focus on the interactions between these mERs and mGluRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S. Johnson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Caroline S. Johnson,
| | - Paul E Micevych
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul G. Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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8
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Zhang Z, DiVittorio JR, Joseph AM, Correa SM. The Effects of Estrogens on Neural Circuits That Control Temperature. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6262699. [PMID: 33939822 PMCID: PMC8237993 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Declining and variable levels of estrogens around the time of menopause are associated with a suite of metabolic, vascular, and neuroendocrine changes. The archetypal adverse effects of perimenopause are vasomotor symptoms, which include hot flashes and night sweats. Although vasomotor symptoms are routinely treated with hormone therapy, the risks associated with these treatments encourage us to seek alternative treatment avenues. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the effects of estrogens on temperature regulation is a first step toward identifying novel therapeutic targets. Here we outline findings in rodents that reveal neural and molecular targets of estrogens within brain regions that control distinct components of temperature homeostasis. These insights suggest that estrogens may alter the function of multiple specialized neural circuits to coordinate the suite of changes after menopause. Thus, defining the precise cells and neural circuits that mediate the effects of estrogens on temperature has promise to identify strategies that would selectively counteract hot flashes or other negative side effects without the health risks that accompany systemic hormone therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Johnathon R DiVittorio
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Alexia M Joseph
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stephanie M Correa
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: Stephanie Correa, Ph.D., UCLA Dept. of Integrative Biology and Physiology 2028 Terasaki Life Sciences Building, 610 Charles E Young Drive East, Box 957239 Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Taxier LR, Gross KS, Frick KM. Oestradiol as a neuromodulator of learning and memory. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:535-550. [PMID: 32879508 PMCID: PMC8302223 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0362-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although hormones such as glucocorticoids have been broadly accepted in recent decades as general neuromodulators of memory processes, sex steroid hormones such as the potent oestrogen 17β-oestradiol have been less well recognized by the scientific community in this capacity. The predominance of females in studies of oestradiol and memory and the general (but erroneous) perception that oestrogens are 'female' hormones have probably prevented oestradiol from being more widely considered as a key memory modulator in both sexes. Indeed, although considerable evidence supports a crucial role for oestradiol in regulating learning and memory in females, a growing body of literature indicates a similar role in males. This Review discusses the mechanisms of oestradiol signalling and provides an overview of the effects of oestradiol on spatial, object recognition, social and fear memories. Although the primary focus is on data collected in females, effects of oestradiol on memory in males will be discussed, as will sex differences in the molecular mechanisms that regulate oestrogenic modulation of memory, which may have important implications for the development of future cognitive therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Taxier
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Kellie S Gross
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Gross KS, Mermelstein PG. Estrogen receptor signaling through metabotropic glutamate receptors. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2020; 114:211-232. [PMID: 32723544 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As the non-nuclear initiated effects of steroid hormone signaling have become more widely accepted, there has been a need to define the novel mechanisms of hormone receptor action that account for these outcomes. One mechanism that has emerged is the coupling of classical estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) with metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) to initiate G protein signaling cascades that ultimately influence neuronal physiology, structure, and behavior. Since its initial discovery in hippocampal neurons, evidence of ER/mGluR associations have been found throughout the nervous system, and the heterogeneity of possible receptor pairings afforded by multiple ER and mGluR subtypes appears to drive diverse molecular outcomes that can impact processes like cognition, motivation, movement, and pain. Recent evidence also suggests that the role of mGluRs in steroid hormone signaling may not be unique to ERs, but rather a conserved mechanism of membrane-initiated hormone receptor action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie S Gross
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
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11
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Kim S, Barad Z, Cheong RY, Ábrahám IM. Sex differences in rapid nonclassical action of 17β-oestradiol on intracellular signalling and oestrogen receptor α expression in basal forebrain cholinergic neurones in mouse. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12830. [PMID: 31943420 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Rapid nonclassical effects of 17β-oestradiol (E2 ) on intracellular signalling have been identified in the basal forebrain, although the extent to which these actions may be different in males and females is unknown. Previous work has shown that E2 rapidly phosphorylates cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB) via ΕRα in female cholinergic neurones. Using this indicator, the present study examined whether nonclassical actions of E2 occur in a sexually dimorphic manner within basal forebrain cholinergic neurones in mice. In addition, we investigated the expression and intracellular distribution of oestrogen receptor (ΕR)α in cholinergic neurones in female and male mice. Animals were gonadectomised and treated 2 weeks later with E2 . The number of CREB-expressing cholinergic neurones was not altered in any of the brain regions after E2 treatment in both males and females. However, E2 treatment rapidly (< 15 minutes) increased (P < 0.05) the number of cholinergic neurones expressing phosphorylated CREB (pCREB) in the substantia innominata and medial septum but not in the striatum in female mice. By contrast, E2 did not change pCREB expression in cholinergic neurones in male mice at any time point (15 minutes, 1 hour, 4 hours), irrespective of the neuroanatomical location. We also observed that, in females, more cholinergic neurones expressed nuclear ΕRα in all regions, whereas males showed more cholinergic neurones with cytoplasmic or both nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of ΕRα. Taken together, these results demonstrate a marked sex difference in the E2 -induced nonclassical effect and intracellular distribution of ΕRα in basal forebrain cholinergic neurones in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- SooHyun Kim
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Zsuzsanna Barad
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Y Cheong
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - István M Ábrahám
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- MTA NAP-B Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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12
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Khbouz B, de Bournonville C, Court L, Taziaux M, Corona R, Arnal JF, Lenfant F, Cornil CA. Role for the membrane estrogen receptor alpha in the sexual differentiation of the brain. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 52:2627-2645. [PMID: 31833601 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens exert pleiotropic effects on multiple physiological and behavioral responses. Male and female sexual behavior in rodents constitutes some of the best-characterized responses activated by estrogens in adulthood and largely depend on ERα. Evidence exists that nucleus- and membrane-initiated estrogen signaling cooperate to orchestrate the activation of these behaviors both in short- and long-term. However, questions remain regarding the mechanism(s) and receptor(s) involved in the early brain programming during development to organize the circuits underlying sexually differentiated responses. Taking advantage of a mouse model harboring a mutation of the ERα palmitoylation site, which prevents membrane ERα signaling (mERα; ERα-C451A), this study investigated the role of mERα on the expression of male and female sexual behavior and neuronal populations that differ between sexes. The results revealed no genotype effect on the expression of female sexual behavior, while male sexual behavior was significantly reduced, but not abolished, in males homozygous for the mutation. Similarly, the number of kisspeptin- (Kp-ir) and calbindin-immunoreactive (Cb-ir) neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPv) and the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (SDN-POA), respectively, were not different between genotypes in females. In contrast, homozygous males showed increased numbers of Kp-ir and decreased numbers of Cb-ir neurons compared to wild-types, thus leading to an intermediate phenotype between females and wild-type males. Importantly, females neonatally treated with estrogens exhibited the same neurochemical phenotype as their corresponding genotype among males. Together, these data provide evidence that mERα is involved in the perinatal programming of the male brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Badr Khbouz
- GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Lucas Court
- GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Rebeca Corona
- GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jean-François Arnal
- INSERM/UPS UMR 1048-I2MC, Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Toulouse, France
| | - Françoise Lenfant
- INSERM/UPS UMR 1048-I2MC, Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Toulouse, France
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Meitzen J, Britson KA, Tuomela K, Mermelstein PG. The expression of select genes necessary for membrane-associated estrogen receptor signaling differ by sex in adult rat hippocampus. Steroids 2019; 142:21-27. [PMID: 28962849 PMCID: PMC5874170 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2017.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
17β-estradiol can rapidly modulate neuron function via membrane estrogen receptors (ERs) in a sex-specific manner. For example, female rat hippocampal neurons express palmitoylated versions of ERα and ERβ that associate with the plasma membrane. These membrane-associated ERs are organized by caveolin proteins into functional signaling microdomains with metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). ER/mGluR signaling mediates several sex-specific estradiol actions on hippocampal neuron function. An important unanswered question regards the mechanism by which sex-specific membrane-associated ER signaling is generated, especially since it has been previously demonstrated that mGluR action is not sex-specific. One possibility is that the genes necessary for the ER membrane complex are differentially expressed between males and females, including genes that encode ERα and β, caveolin 1 and 3, and/or the palmitoylacyltransferases DHHC-7 and -21. Thus we used qPCR to test the hypothesis that these genes show sex differences in expression in neonatal and adult rat hippocampus. As an additional control we tested the expression of the 20 other DHHC palmitoylacyltransferases with no known connections to ER. In neonatal hippocampus, no sex differences were detected in gene expression. In adult hippocampus, the genes that encode caveolin 1 and DHHC-7 showed decreased expression in females compared to males. Thus, select genes differ by sex at specific developmental stages, arguing for a more nuanced model than simple widespread perinatal emergence of sex differences in all genes enabling sex-specific estradiol action. These findings enable the generation of new hypotheses regarding the mechanisms by which sex differences in membrane-associated ER signaling are programmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Meitzen
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States; W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.
| | - Kyla A Britson
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Krista Tuomela
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Dept. of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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14
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Ratner MH, Kumaresan V, Farb DH. Neurosteroid Actions in Memory and Neurologic/Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:169. [PMID: 31024441 PMCID: PMC6465949 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory dysfunction is a symptomatic feature of many neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders; however, the basic underlying mechanisms of memory and altered states of circuitry function associated with disorders of memory remain a vast unexplored territory. The initial discovery of endogenous neurosteroids triggered a quest to elucidate their role as neuromodulators in normal and diseased brain function. In this review, based on the perspective of our own research, the advances leading to the discovery of positive and negative neurosteroid allosteric modulators of GABA type-A (GABAA), NMDA, and non-NMDA type glutamate receptors are brought together in a historical and conceptual framework. We extend the analysis toward a state-of-the art view of how neurosteroid modulation of neural circuitry function may affect memory and memory deficits. By aggregating the results from multiple laboratories using both animal models for disease and human clinical research on neuropsychiatric and age-related neurodegenerative disorders, elements of a circuitry level view begins to emerge. Lastly, the effects of both endogenously active and exogenously administered neurosteroids on neural networks across the life span of women and men point to a possible underlying pharmacological connectome by which these neuromodulators might act to modulate memory across diverse altered states of mind.
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15
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The Role of Interleukin-10 in Mediating the Effect of Immune Challenge on Mouse Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons In Vivo. eNeuro 2018; 5:eN-NWR-0211-18. [PMID: 30406179 PMCID: PMC6220573 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0211-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune challenge alters neural functioning via cytokine production. Inflammation has profound impact on the central regulation of fertility, but the mechanisms involved are not clearly defined. The anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 is responsible for balancing the immune response in the brain. To examine whether IL-10 has an effect on the function of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, we first examined the effect of immune responses with distinct cytokine profiles, such as the T cell-dependent (TD) and T cell-independent (TI) B-cell response. We investigated the effect of the TD and TI immune responses on ERK1/2 phosphorylation in GnRH neurons by administering fluorescein isothiocyanate/keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH-FITC) or dextran-FITC to female mice. Although dextran-FITC had no effect, KLH-FITC induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in GnRH neurons after 6 d. KLH-FITC treatment increased the levels of IL-10 in the hypothalamus (HYP), but this treatment did not cause lymphocyte infiltration or an increase in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines. In IL-10 knock-out (KO) mice, KLH-FITC-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the GnRH neurons was absent. We also showed that in IL-10 KO mice, the estrous cycle was disrupted. Perforated patch-clamp recordings from GnRH-GFP neurons, IL-10 immunohistochemistry, and in vitro experiments on acute brain slices revealed that IL-10 can directly alter GnRH neuron firing and induce ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These observations demonstrate that IL-10 plays a role in influencing signaling of GnRH neurons in the TD immune response. These results also provide the first evidence that IL-10 can directly alter the function of GnRH neurons and may help the maintenance of the integrity of the estrous cycle.
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16
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Tonn Eisinger KR, Gross KS, Head BP, Mermelstein PG. Interactions between estrogen receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors and their impact on drug addiction in females. Horm Behav 2018; 104:130-137. [PMID: 29505763 PMCID: PMC6131090 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) have a unique relationship with metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in the female rodent brain such that estradiol is able to recruit intracellular G-protein signaling cascades to influence neuronal physiology, structure, and ultimately behavior. While this association between ERs and mGluRs exists in many cell types and brain regions, its effects are perhaps most striking in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). This review will discuss the original characterization of ER/mGluR signaling and how estradiol activity in the NAc confers increased sensitivity to drugs of abuse in females through this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Tonn Eisinger
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kellie S Gross
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
| | - Brian P Head
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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17
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Micevych PE, Sinchak K. Extranuclear signaling by ovarian steroids in the regulation of sexual receptivity. Horm Behav 2018; 104:4-14. [PMID: 29753716 PMCID: PMC6240501 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Micevych
- Dept of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the UCLA Brain Research Institute, United States
| | - Kevin Sinchak
- Dept of Biological Sciences, California State University, Long Beach, United States.
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18
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Heimovics SA, Merritt JR, Jalabert C, Ma C, Maney DL, Soma KK. Rapid effects of 17β-estradiol on aggressive behavior in songbirds: Environmental and genetic influences. Horm Behav 2018; 104:41-51. [PMID: 29605636 PMCID: PMC6344317 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. 17β-estradiol (E2) has numerous rapid effects on the brain and behavior. This review focuses on the rapid effects of E2 on aggression, an important social behavior, in songbirds. First, we highlight the contributions of studies on song sparrows, which reveal that seasonal changes in the environment profoundly influence the capacity of E2 to rapidly alter aggressive behavior. E2 administration to male song sparrows increases aggression within 20 min in the non-breeding season, but not in the breeding season. Furthermore, E2 rapidly modulates several phosphoproteins in the song sparrow brain. In particular, E2 rapidly affects pCREB in the medial preoptic nucleus, in the non-breeding season only. Second, we describe studies of the white-throated sparrow, which reveal how a genetic polymorphism may influence the rapid effects of E2 on aggression. In this species, a chromosomal rearrangement that includes ESR1, which encodes estrogen receptor α (ERα), affects ERα expression in the brain and the ability of E2 to rapidly promote aggression. Third, we summarize studies showing that aggressive interactions rapidly affect levels of E2 and other steroids, both in the blood and in specific brain regions, and the emerging potential for steroid profiling by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Such studies of songbirds demonstrate the value of an ethologically informed approach, in order to reveal how steroids act rapidly on the brain to alter naturally-occurring behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cecilia Jalabert
- University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Chunqi Ma
- University of British Columbia, Department of Psychology, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Donna L Maney
- Emory University, Department of Psychology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kiran K Soma
- University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology, Vancouver, BC, Canada; University of British Columbia, Department of Psychology, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Canada
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19
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Vahaba DM, Remage-Healey L. Neuroestrogens rapidly shape auditory circuits to support communication learning and perception: Evidence from songbirds. Horm Behav 2018; 104:77-87. [PMID: 29555375 PMCID: PMC7025793 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Steroid hormones, such as estrogens, were once thought to be exclusively synthesized in the ovaries and enact transcriptional changes over the course of hours to days. However, estrogens are also locally synthesized within neural circuits, wherein they rapidly (within minutes) modulate a range of behaviors, including spatial cognition and communication. Here, we review the role of brain-derived estrogens (neuroestrogens) as modulators within sensory circuits in songbirds. We first present songbirds as an attractive model to explore how neuroestrogens in auditory cortex modulate vocal communication processing and learning. Further, we examine how estrogens may enhance vocal learning and auditory memory consolidation in sensory cortex via mechanisms similar to those found in the hippocampus of rodents and birds. Finally, we propose future directions for investigation, including: 1) the extent of developmental and hemispheric shifts in aromatase and membrane estrogen receptor expression in auditory circuits; 2) how neuroestrogens may impact inhibitory interneurons to regulate audition and critical period plasticity; and, 3) dendritic spine plasticity as a candidate mechanism mediating estrogen-dependent effects on vocal learning. Together, this perspective of estrogens as neuromodulators in the vertebrate brain has opened new avenues in understanding sensory plasticity, including how hormones can act on communication circuits to influence behaviors in other vocal learning species, such as in language acquisition and speech processing in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Vahaba
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Luke Remage-Healey
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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20
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Pereira LM, Guimarães IM, Oliveira VE, Bastos CP, Ribeiro FM, Prado VF, Prado MA, Pereira GS. Estradiol effect on short-term object memory under hypocholinergic condition. Brain Res Bull 2018; 140:411-417. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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21
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Tonn Eisinger KR, Larson EB, Boulware MI, Thomas MJ, Mermelstein PG. Membrane estrogen receptor signaling impacts the reward circuitry of the female brain to influence motivated behaviors. Steroids 2018; 133:53-59. [PMID: 29195840 PMCID: PMC5864533 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Within the adult female, estrogen signaling is well-described as an integral component of the physiologically significant hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. In rodents, the timing of ovulation is intrinsically entwined with the display of sexual receptivity. For decades, the importance of estradiol activating intracellular estrogen receptors within the hypothalamus and midbrain/spinal cord lordosis circuits has been appreciated. These signaling pathways primarily account for the ability of the female to reproduce. Yet, often overlooked is that the desire to reproduce is also tightly regulated by estrogen receptor signaling. This lack of emphasis can be attributed to an absence of nuclear estrogen receptors in brain regions associated with reward, such as the nucleus accumbens, which are associated with motivated behaviors. This review outlines how membrane-localized estrogen receptors affect metabotropic glutamate receptor signaling within the rodent nucleus accumbens. In addition, we discuss how, as estrogens drive increased motivation for reproduction, they also produce the untoward side effect of heightening female vulnerability to drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Tonn Eisinger
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Erin B Larson
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Marissa I Boulware
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Mark J Thomas
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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22
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Charif SE, Inserra PIF, Schmidt AR, Di Giorgio NP, Cortasa SA, Gonzalez CR, Lux-Lantos V, Halperin J, Vitullo AD, Dorfman VB. Local production of neurostradiol affects gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion at mid-gestation in Lagostomus maximus (Rodentia, Caviomorpha). Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/19/e13439. [PMID: 29038356 PMCID: PMC5641931 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Females of the South American plains vizcacha, Lagostomus maximus, show peculiar reproductive features such as massive polyovulation up to 800 oocytes per estrous cycle and an ovulatory process around mid‐gestation arising from the reactivation of the hypothalamic–hypophyseal–ovary (H.H.O.) axis. Estradiol (E2) regulates gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) expression. Biosynthesis of estrogens results from the aromatization of androgens by aromatase, which mainly occurs in the gonads, but has also been described in the hypothalamus. The recently described correlation between GnRH and ERα expression patterns in the hypothalamus of the vizcacha during pregnancy, with coexpression in the same neurons of the medial preoptic area, suggests that hypothalamic synthesis of E2 may affect GnRH neurons and contribute with systemic E2 to modulate GnRH delivery during the gestation. To elucidate this hypothesis, hypothalamic expression and the action of aromatase on GnRH release were evaluated in female vizcachas throughout pregnancy. Aromatase and GnRH expression was increased significantly in mid‐pregnant and term‐pregnant vizcachas compared to early‐pregnant and nonpregnant females. In addition, aromatase and GnRH were colocalized in neurons of the medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus throughout gestation. The blockage of the negative feedback of E2 induced by the inhibition of aromatase resulted in a significant increment of GnRH‐secreted mass by hypothalamic explants. E2 produced in the same neurons as GnRH may drive intracellular E2 to higher levels than those obtained from systemic circulation alone. This may trigger for a prompt GnRH availability enabling H.H.O. activity at mid‐gestation with ovulation and formation of accessory corpora lutea with steroidogenic activity that produce the necessary progesterone to maintain gestation to term and guarantee the reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago E Charif
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo I F Inserra
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandro R Schmidt
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia P Di Giorgio
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IByME-CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago A Cortasa
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Candela R Gonzalez
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Victoria Lux-Lantos
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IByME-CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julia Halperin
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alfredo Daniel Vitullo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica B Dorfman
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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23
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Micevych PE, Mermelstein PG, Sinchak K. Estradiol Membrane-Initiated Signaling in the Brain Mediates Reproduction. Trends Neurosci 2017; 40:654-666. [PMID: 28969926 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few years our understanding of estrogen signaling in the brain has expanded rapidly. Estrogens are synthesized in the periphery and in the brain, acting on multiple receptors to regulate gene transcription, neural function, and behavior. Various estrogen-sensitive signaling pathways often operate in concert within the same cell, increasing the complexity of the system. In females, estrogen concentrations fluctuate over the estrous/menstrual cycle, dynamically modulating estrogen receptor (ER) expression, activity, and trafficking. These dynamic changes influence multiple behaviors but are particularly important for reproduction. Using the female rodent model, we review our current understanding of estradiol signaling in the regulation of sexual receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Micevych
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the UCLA Brain Research Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kevin Sinchak
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA
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24
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Estrogen Receptor β Mediated Neuroprotective Efficacy of Cicer microphyllum Seed Extract in Global Hypoxia. Neurochem Res 2017; 42:3474-3489. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2395-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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25
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Jean A, Trouillet AC, Andrianarivelo NA, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Hardin-Pouzet H. Phospho-ERK and sex steroids in the mPOA: involvement in male mouse sexual behaviour. J Endocrinol 2017; 233:257-267. [PMID: 28356400 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This paper aimed to investigate the mechanisms triggering ERK phosphorylation and its functional role in male sexual behaviour. ERK1/2-phosphorylated form was detected in the medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus (mPOA) during the sexual stimulation of naive and sexually experienced males who were killed 5 min after the first intromission. This mating-induced ERK phosphorylation was increased in sexually experienced males compared to that in naive mice. The functional role of the ERK1/2 pathway activation during sexual behaviour was explored with the administration of a MEK inhibitor, SL-327 (30 mg/kg, i.p.), 45 min before the contact with a receptive female. Inhibition of ERK phosphorylation was found to decrease sexual motivation in both naive and experienced males without altering their copulatory ability. The mechanisms potentially involved in this rapid ERK1/2 pathway activation were specified ex vivo on hypothalamic slices. A thirty-minute incubation with 100 nM of testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or oestradiol (E2) led to ERK phosphorylation. No changes were observed after incubation with testosterone 3-(O-carboxymethyl)oxime-BSA (T-BSA), an impermeable to the plasma membrane form of testosterone. All these results indicate that ERK phosphorylation within the mPOA could be a key player in the motivational signalling pathway and considered as an index of sexual motivation. They also demonstrate the involvement of oestrogen receptor (ER) and androgen receptor (AR) transduction pathways in steroid-dependent ERK activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Jean
- Sorbonne UniversitésUPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris - Seine; Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Charlotte Trouillet
- Sorbonne UniversitésUPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris - Seine; Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Njiva Andry Andrianarivelo
- Sorbonne UniversitésUPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris - Seine; Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne UniversitésUPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris - Seine; Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Hélène Hardin-Pouzet
- Sorbonne UniversitésUPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris - Seine; Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
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26
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Pereira M. Structural and Functional Plasticity in the Maternal Brain Circuitry. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2017; 2016:23-46. [PMID: 27589496 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Parenting recruits a distributed network of brain structures (and neuromodulators) that coordinates caregiving responses attuned to the young's affect, needs, and developmental stage. Many of these structures and connections undergo significant structural and functional plasticity, mediated by the interplay between maternal hormones and social experience while the reciprocal relationship between the mother and her infant forms and develops. These alterations account for the remarkable behavioral plasticity of mothers. This review will examine the molecular and neurobiological modulation and plasticity through which parenting develops and adjusts in new mothers, primarily discussing recent findings in nonhuman animals. A better understanding of how parenting impacts the brain at the molecular, cellular, systems/network, and behavioral levels is likely to significantly contribute to novel strategies for treating postpartum neuropsychiatric disorders in new mothers, and critical for both the mother's physiological and mental health and the development and well-being of her young.
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27
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Mittelman-Smith MA, Rudolph LM, Mohr MA, Micevych PE. Rodent Models of Non-classical Progesterone Action Regulating Ovulation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:165. [PMID: 28790975 PMCID: PMC5522857 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is becoming clear that steroid hormones act not only by binding to nuclear receptors that associate with specific response elements in the nucleus but also by binding to receptors on the cell membrane. In this newly discovered manner, steroid hormones can initiate intracellular signaling cascades which elicit rapid effects such as release of internal calcium stores and activation of kinases. We have learned much about the translocation and signaling of steroid hormone receptors from investigations into estrogen receptor α, which can be trafficked to, and signal from, the cell membrane. It is now clear that progesterone (P4) can also elicit effects that cannot be exclusively explained by transcriptional changes. Similar to E2 and its receptors, P4 can initiate signaling at the cell membrane, both through progesterone receptor and via a host of newly discovered membrane receptors (e.g., membrane progesterone receptors, progesterone receptor membrane components). This review discusses the parallels between neurotransmitter-like E2 action and the more recently investigated non-classical P4 signaling, in the context of reproductive behaviors in the rodent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda A. Mittelman-Smith
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Melinda A. Mittelman-Smith,
| | - Lauren M. Rudolph
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Margaret A. Mohr
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul E. Micevych
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Vargas KG, Milic J, Zaciragic A, Wen KX, Jaspers L, Nano J, Dhana K, Bramer WM, Kraja B, van Beeck E, Ikram MA, Muka T, Franco OH. The functions of estrogen receptor beta in the female brain: A systematic review. Maturitas 2016; 93:41-57. [PMID: 27338976 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Females have unique and additional risk factors for neurological disorders. Among classical estrogen receptors, estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) has been suggested as a therapeutic target. However, little is known about the role of ERβ in the female brain. Six electronic databases were searched for articles evaluating the role of ERβ in the female brain and the influence of age and menopause on ERβ function. After screening 3186 titles and abstracts, 49 articles were included in the review, all of which were animal studies. Of these, 19 focused on cellular signaling, 7 on neuroendocrine pathways, 8 on neurological disorders, 4 on neuroprotection and 19 on psychological and psychiatric outcomes (6 studies evaluated two or more outcomes). Our findings showed that ERβ phosphorylated and activated intracellular second messenger proteins and regulated protein expression of genes involved in neurological functions. It also promoted neurogenesis, modulated the neuroendocrine regulation of stress response, conferred neuroprotection against ischemia and inflammation, and reduced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Targeting ERβ may constitute a novel treatment for menopausal symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and neurological diseases. However, to establish potential therapeutic and preventive strategies targeting ERβ, future studies should be conducted in humans to further our understanding of the importance of ERβ in women's mental and cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris G Vargas
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jelena Milic
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Asija Zaciragic
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ke-Xin Wen
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Loes Jaspers
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jana Nano
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Klodian Dhana
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bledar Kraja
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania; University Clinic of Gastrohepatology, University Hospital Center Mother Teresa, Tirana, Albania
| | - Ed van Beeck
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, The Netherlands; Department of Radiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Taulant Muka
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Oscar H Franco
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Micevych PE, Wong AM, Mittelman-Smith MA. Estradiol Membrane-Initiated Signaling and Female Reproduction. Compr Physiol 2016; 5:1211-22. [PMID: 26140715 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c140056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The discoveries of rapid, membrane-initiated steroid actions and central nervous system steroidogenesis have changed our understanding of the neuroendocrinology of reproduction. Classical nuclear actions of estradiol and progesterone steroids affecting transcription are essential. However, with the discoveries of membrane-associated steroid receptors, it is becoming clear that estradiol and progesterone have neurotransmitter-like actions activating intracellular events. Ultimately, membrane-initiated actions can influence transcription. Estradiol membrane-initiated signaling (EMS) modulates female sexual receptivity and estrogen feedback regulating the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. In the arcuate nucleus, EMS activates a lordosis-regulating circuit that extends to the medial preoptic nucleus and subsequently to the ventromedial nucleus (VMH)--the output from the limbic and hypothalamic regions. Here, we discuss how EMS leads to an active inhibition of lordosis behavior. To stimulate ovulation, EMS facilitates astrocyte synthesis of progesterone (neuroP) in the hypothalamus. Regulation of GnRH release driving the LH surge is dependent on estradiol-sensitive kisspeptin (Kiss1) expression in the rostral periventricular nucleus of the third ventricle (RP3V). NeuroP activation of the LH surge depends on Kiss1, but the specifics of signaling have not been well elucidated. RP3V Kiss1 neurons appear to integrate estradiol and progesterone information which feeds back onto GnRH neurons to stimulate the LH surge. In a second population of Kiss1 neurons, estradiol suppresses the surge but maintains tonic LH release, another critical component of the estrous cycle. Together, evidence suggests that regulation of reproduction involves membrane action of steroids, some of which are synthesized in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Micevych
- UCLA - David Geffen School of Medicine Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Angela May Wong
- UCLA - David Geffen School of Medicine Los Angeles, California, USA
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Estrogen Receptor β Activation Rapidly Modulates Male Sexual Motivation through the Transactivation of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 1a. J Neurosci 2015; 35:13110-23. [PMID: 26400941 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2056-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to the transcriptional activity of their liganded nuclear receptors, estrogens, such as estradiol (E2), modulate cell functions, and consequently physiology and behavior, within minutes through membrane-initiated events. The membrane-associated receptors (mERs) underlying the acute effects of estrogens on behavior have mostly been documented in females where active estrogens are thought to be of ovarian origin. We determined here, by acute intracerebroventricular injections of specific agonists and antagonists, the type(s) of mERs that modulate rapid effects of brain-derived estrogens on sexual motivation in male Japanese quail. Brain aromatase blockade acutely inhibited sexual motivation. Diarylpropionitrile (DPN), an estrogen receptor β (ERβ)-specific agonist, and to a lesser extent 17α-estradiol, possibly acting through ER-X, prevented this effect. In contrast, drugs targeting ERα (PPT and MPP), GPR30 (G1 and G15), and the Gq-mER (STX) did not affect sexual motivation. The mGluR1a antagonist LY367385 significantly inhibited sexual motivation but mGluR2/3 and mGluR5 antagonists were ineffective. LY367385 also blocked the behavioral restoration induced by E2 or DPN, providing functional evidence that ERβ interacts with metabotropic glutamate receptor 1a (mGluR1a) signaling to acutely regulate male sexual motivation. Together these results show that ERβ plays a key role in sexual behavior regulation and the recently uncovered cooperation between mERs and mGluRs is functional in males where it mediates the acute effects of estrogens produced centrally in response to social stimuli. The presence of an ER-mGluR interaction in birds suggests that this mechanism emerged relatively early in vertebrate history and is well conserved. Significance statement: The membrane-associated receptors underlying the acute effects of estrogens on behavior have mostly been documented in females, where active estrogens are thought to be of ovarian origin. Using acute intracerebroventricular injections of specific agonists and antagonists following blockade of brain aromatase, we show here that brain-derived estrogens acutely facilitate male sexual motivation through the activation of estrogen receptor β interacting with the metabotropic glutamate receptor 1a. This behavioral effect occurring within minutes provides a mechanistic explanation of how an estrogen receptor not intrinsically coupled to intracellular effectors can signal from the membrane to govern behavior in a very rapid fashion. It suggests that different subtypes of estrogen receptors could regulate the motivation versus performance aspects of behavior.
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31
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Reproductive experiential regulation of cognitive and emotional resilience. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 58:92-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Krentzel AA, Remage-Healey L. Sex differences and rapid estrogen signaling: A look at songbird audition. Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 38:37-49. [PMID: 25637753 PMCID: PMC4484764 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The actions of estrogens have been associated with brain differentiation and sexual dimorphism in a wide range of vertebrates. Here we consider the actions of brain-derived 'neuroestrogens' in the forebrain and the accompanying differences and similarities observed between males and females in a variety of species. We summarize recent evidence showing that baseline and fluctuating levels of neuroestrogens within the auditory forebrain of male and female zebra finches are largely similar, and that neuroestrogens enhance auditory representations in both sexes. With a comparative perspective we review evidence that non-genomic mechanisms of neuroestrogen actions are sexually differentiated, and we propose a working model for nonclassical estrogen signaling via the MAPK intracellular signaling cascade in the songbird auditory forebrain that is informed by the way sex differences may be compensated. This view may lead to a more comprehensive understanding of how sex influences estradiol-dependent modulation of sensorimotor representations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda A Krentzel
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Luke Remage-Healey
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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Heimovics SA, Trainor BC, Soma KK. Rapid Effects of Estradiol on Aggression in Birds and Mice: The Fast and the Furious. Integr Comp Biol 2015; 55:281-93. [PMID: 25980562 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icv048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Across invertebrates and vertebrates, steroids are potent signaling molecules that affect nearly every cell in the organism, including cells of the nervous system. Historically, researchers have focused on the genomic (or "nuclear-initiated") effects of steroids. However, all classes of steroids also have rapid non-genomic (or "membrane-initiated") effects, although there is far less basic knowledge of these non-genomic effects. In particular, steroids synthesized in the brain ("neurosteroids") have genomic and non-genomic effects on behavior. Here, we review evidence that estradiol has rapid effects on aggression, an important social behavior, and on intracellular signaling cascades in relevant regions of the brain. In particular, we focus on studies of song sparrows (Melospiza melodia) and Peromyscus mice, in which estradiol has rapid behavioral effects under short photoperiods only. Furthermore, in captive Peromyscus, estrogenic compounds (THF-diols) in corncob bedding profoundly alter the rapid effects of estradiol. Environmental factors in the laboratory, such as photoperiod, diet, and bedding, are critical variables to consider in experimental design. These studies are consistent with the hypothesis that locally-produced steroids are more likely than systemic steroids to act via non-genomic mechanisms. Furthermore, these studies illustrate the dynamic balance between genomic and non-genomic signaling for estradiol, which is likely to be relevant for other steroids, behaviors, and species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Heimovics
- *Department of Biology, University of St Thomas, St Paul, MN 55105, USA;
| | - Brian C Trainor
- Department of Psychology, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kiran K Soma
- Departments of Psychology and Zoology, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z7, Canada
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Wong AM, Abrams MC, Micevych PE. β-arrestin regulates estradiol membrane-initiated signaling in hypothalamic neurons. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120530. [PMID: 25803606 PMCID: PMC4372564 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Estradiol (E2) action in the nervous system is the result of both direct nuclear and membrane-initiated signaling (EMS). E2 regulates membrane estrogen receptor-α (ERα) levels through opposing mechanisms of EMS-mediated trafficking and internalization. While ß-arrestin-mediated mERα internalization has been described in the cortex, a role of ß-arrestin in EMS, which underlies multiple physiological processes, remains undefined. In the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARH), membrane-initiated E2 signaling modulates lordosis behavior, a measure of female sexually receptivity. To better understand EMS and regulation of ERα membrane levels, we examined the role of ß-arrestin, a molecule associated with internalization following agonist stimulation. In the present study, we used an immortalized neuronal cell line derived from embryonic hypothalamic neurons, the N-38 line, to examine whether ß-arrestins mediate internalization of mERα. β-arrestin-1 (Arrb1) was found in the ARH and in N-38 neurons. In vitro, E2 increased trafficking and internalization of full-length ERα and ERαΔ4, an alternatively spliced isoform of ERα, which predominates in the membrane. Treatment with E2 also increased phosphorylation of extracellular-signal regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) in N-38 neurons. Arrb1 siRNA knockdown prevented E2-induced ERαΔ4 internalization and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In vivo, microinfusions of Arrb1 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) into female rat ARH knocked down Arrb1 and prevented estradiol benzoate-induced lordosis behavior compared with nonsense scrambled ODN (lordosis quotient: 3 ± 2.1 vs. 85.0 ± 6.0; p < 0.0001). These results indicate a role for Arrb1 in both EMS and internalization of mERα, which are required for the E2-induction of female sexual receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Wong
- Department of Neurobiology David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Matthew C. Abrams
- Department of Neurobiology David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Paul E. Micevych
- Department of Neurobiology David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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35
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Charlier TD, Cornil CA, Patte-Mensah C, Meyer L, Mensah-Nyagan AG, Balthazart J. Local modulation of steroid action: rapid control of enzymatic activity. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:83. [PMID: 25852459 PMCID: PMC4365721 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens can induce rapid, short-lived physiological and behavioral responses, in addition to their slow, but long-term, effects at the transcriptional level. To be functionally relevant, these effects should be associated with rapid modulations of estrogens concentrations. 17β-estradiol is synthesized by the enzyme aromatase, using testosterone as a substrate, but can also be degraded into catechol-estrogens via hydroxylation by the same enzyme, leading to an increase or decrease in estrogens concentration, respectively. The first evidence that aromatase activity (AA) can be rapidly modulated came from experiments performed in Japanese quail hypothalamus homogenates. This rapid modulation is triggered by calcium-dependent phosphorylations and was confirmed in other tissues and species. The mechanisms controlling the phosphorylation status, the targeted amino acid residues and the reversibility seem to vary depending of the tissues and is discussed in this review. We currently do not know whether the phosphorylation of the same amino acid affects both aromatase and/or hydroxylase activities or whether these residues are different. These processes provide a new general mechanism by which local estrogen concentration can be rapidly altered in the brain and other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry D Charlier
- Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail, University of Rennes 1 Rennes, France ; Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University Athens, OH, USA
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Rainville J, Pollard K, Vasudevan N. Membrane-initiated non-genomic signaling by estrogens in the hypothalamus: cross-talk with glucocorticoids with implications for behavior. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:18. [PMID: 25762980 PMCID: PMC4329805 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The estrogen receptor and glucocorticoid receptor are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily that can signal using both non-genomic and genomic transcriptional modes. Though genomic modes of signaling have been well characterized and several behaviors attributed to this signaling mechanism, the physiological significance of non-genomic modes of signaling has not been well understood. This has partly been due to the controversy regarding the identity of the membrane ER (mER) or membrane GR (mGR) that may mediate rapid, non-genomic signaling and the downstream signaling cascades that may result as a consequence of steroid ligands binding the mER or the mGR. Both estrogens and glucocorticoids exert a number of actions on the hypothalamus, including feedback. This review focuses on the various candidates for the mER or mGR in the hypothalamus and the contribution of non-genomic signaling to classical hypothalamically driven behaviors and changes in neuronal morphology. It also attempts to categorize some of the possible functions of non-genomic signaling at both the cellular level and at the organismal level that are relevant for behavior, including some behaviors that are regulated by both estrogens and glucocorticoids in a potentially synergistic manner. Lastly, it attempts to show that steroid signaling via non-genomic modes may provide the organism with rapid behavioral responses to stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Rainville
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Kevin Pollard
- Neuroscience Program, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Nandini Vasudevan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- *Correspondence: Nandini Vasudevan, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, 2000 Percival Stern Hall, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA e-mail:
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37
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Gene expression profiles of estrogen receptors α and β in the fetal bovine hypothalamus and immunohistochemical characterization during development. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 359:619-626. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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38
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Laredo SA, Villalon Landeros R, Trainor BC. Rapid effects of estrogens on behavior: environmental modulation and molecular mechanisms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:447-58. [PMID: 24685383 PMCID: PMC4175137 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol can modulate neural activity and behavior via both genomic and nongenomic mechanisms. Environmental cues have a major impact on the relative importance of these signaling pathways with significant consequences for behavior. First we consider how photoperiod modulates nongenomic estrogen signaling on behavior. Intriguingly, short days permit rapid effects of estrogens on aggression in both rodents and song sparrows. This highlights the importance of considering photoperiod as a variable in laboratory research. Next we review evidence for rapid effects of estradiol on ecologically-relevant behaviors including aggression, copulation, communication, and learning. We also address the impact of endocrine disruptors on estrogen signaling, such as those found in corncob bedding used in rodent research. Finally, we examine the biochemical mechanisms that may mediate rapid estrogen action on behavior in males and females. A common theme across these topics is that the effects of estrogens on social behaviors vary across different environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Laredo
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States; Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Rosalina Villalon Landeros
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, United States
| | - Brian C Trainor
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States; Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
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39
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Grassi D, Lagunas N, Calmarza-Font I, Diz-Chaves Y, Garcia-Segura LM, Panzica GC. Chronic unpredictable stress and long-term ovariectomy affect arginine-vasopressin expression in the paraventricular nucleus of adult female mice. Brain Res 2014; 1588:55-62. [PMID: 25218558 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Arginine-Vasopressin (AVP) may regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and its effects on depressive responses. In a recent study, we demonstrated that Chronic Unpredictable Stress (CUS) depressive effects are enhanced by long-term ovariectomy (a model of post-menopause). In the present study, we investigated the effects of long-term ovariectomy and CUS on AVP expression in different subdivision of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of female mice. Both long-term ovariectomy and CUS affect AVP immunoreactivity in some of the PVN subnuclei of adult female mice. In particular, significant changes on AVP immunoreactivity were observed in magnocellular subdivisions, the paraventricular lateral magnocellular (PaLM) and the paraventricular medial magnocellular (PaMM), the 2 subnuclei projecting to the neurohypophysis for the hormonal regulation of body homeostasis. AVP immunoreactivity was decreased in the PaLM by both the long-term deprivation of ovarian hormones and the CUS. In contrast, AVP immunoreactivity was increased in the PaMM by CUS, whereas it was decreased by ovariectomy. Therefore, present results suggest morphological and functional differences among the PVN's subnuclei and complex interactions among CUS, gonadal hormones and AVP immunoreactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Grassi
- Cajal Institute, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; University of Torino, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", Torino, Italy; Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Department of Molecular Embryology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - N Lagunas
- Cajal Institute, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - G C Panzica
- University of Torino, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, Torino, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Torino, Italy.
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40
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Pereira LM, Bastos CP, de Souza JM, Ribeiro FM, Pereira GS. Estradiol enhances object recognition memory in Swiss female mice by activating hippocampal estrogen receptor α. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2014; 114:1-9. [PMID: 24726465 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In rodents, 17β-estradiol (E2) enhances hippocampal function and improves performance in several memory tasks. Regarding the object recognition paradigm, E2 commonly act as a cognitive enhancer. However, the types of estrogen receptor (ER) involved, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms are still under investigation. In the present study, we asked whether E2 enhances object recognition memory by activating ERα and/or ERβ in the hippocampus of Swiss female mice. First, we showed that immediately post-training intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of E2 (0.2 mg/kg) allowed object recognition memory to persist 48 h in ovariectomized (OVX) Swiss female mice. This result indicates that Swiss female mice are sensitive to the promnesic effects of E2 and is in accordance with other studies, which used C57/BL6 female mice. To verify if the activation of hippocampal ERα or ERβ would be sufficient to improve object memory, we used PPT and DPN, which are selective ERα and ERβ agonists, respectively. We found that PPT, but not DPN, improved object memory in Swiss female mice. However, DPN was able to improve memory in C57/BL6 female mice, which is in accordance with other studies. Next, we tested if the E2 effect on improving object memory depends on ER activation in the hippocampus. Thus, we tested if the infusion of intra-hippocampal TPBM and PHTPP, selective antagonists of ERα and ERβ, respectively, would block the memory enhancement effect of E2. Our results showed that TPBM, but not PHTPP, blunted the promnesic effect of E2, strongly suggesting that in Swiss female mice, the ERα and not the ERβ is the receptor involved in the promnesic effect of E2. It was already demonstrated that E2, as well as PPT and DPN, increase the phospho-ERK2 level in the dorsal hippocampus of C57/BL6 mice. Here we observed that PPT increased phospho-ERK1, while DPN decreased phospho-ERK2 in the dorsal hippocampus of Swiss female mice subjected to the object recognition sample phase. Taken together, our results suggest that the type of receptor as well as the molecular mechanism used by E2 to improve object memory may differ in Swiss female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana M Pereira
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cristiane P Bastos
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jéssica M de Souza
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fabíola M Ribeiro
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Grace S Pereira
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Handa RJ, Weiser MJ. Gonadal steroid hormones and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:197-220. [PMID: 24246855 PMCID: PMC5802971 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis represents a complex neuroendocrine feedback loop controlling the secretion of adrenal glucocorticoid hormones. Central to its function is the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) where neurons expressing corticotropin releasing factor reside. These HPA motor neurons are a primary site of integration leading to graded endocrine responses to physical and psychological stressors. An important regulatory factor that must be considered, prior to generating an appropriate response is the animal's reproductive status. Thus, PVN neurons express androgen and estrogen receptors and receive input from sites that also express these receptors. Consequently, changes in reproduction and gonadal steroid levels modulate the stress response and this underlies sex differences in HPA axis function. This review examines the make up of the HPA axis and hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the interactions between the two that should be considered when exploring normal and pathological responses to environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Handa
- Department of Basic Medical Science, The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States.
| | - Michael J Weiser
- DSM Nutritional Products Ltd., R&D Human Nutrition and Health, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
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Abstract
Two populations of cells within the hypothalamus exert opposite actions on food intake: proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons decrease it, while neuropeptide Y (NPY)/agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons increase it. 17β-Estradiol (E2) is a potent anorexigenic hormone that exerts both genomic and non-genomic, rapid actions on these metabolic neurons. This review focuses on the rapid membrane effects of E2 in both POMC and NPY/AgRP neurons and how these combined effects mediate the anorexigenic effects of this steroid.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Smith
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - O K Rønnekleiv
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - M J Kelly
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
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Clark S, Rainville J, Zhao X, Katzenellenbogen BS, Pfaff D, Vasudevan N. Estrogen receptor-mediated transcription involves the activation of multiple kinase pathways in neuroblastoma cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 139:45-53. [PMID: 24121066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Revised: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
While many physiological effects of estrogens (E) are due to regulation of gene transcription by liganded estrogen receptors (ERs), several effects are also mediated, at least in part, by rapid non-genomic actions of E. Though the relative importance of rapid versus genomic effects in the central nervous system is controversial, we showed previously that membrane-limited effects of E, initiated by an estradiol bovine serum albumin conjugate (E2-BSA), could potentiate transcriptional effects of 17β-estradiol from an estrogen response element (ERE)-reporter in neuroblastoma cells. Here, using specific inhibitors and activators in a pharmacological approach, we show that activation of phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate kinase (PI3K) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, dependent on a Gαq coupled receptor signaling are important in this transcriptional potentiation. We further demonstrate, using ERα phospho-deficient mutants, that E2-BSA mediated phosphorylation of ERα is one mechanism to potentiate transcription from an ERE reporter construct. This study provides a possible mechanism by which signaling from the membrane is coupled to transcription in the nucleus, providing an integrated view of hormone signaling in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Clark
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States
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Non-classical effects of estradiol on cAMP responsive element binding protein phosphorylation in gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons: mechanisms and role. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:31-41. [PMID: 23978477 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is produced by a heterogenous neuronal population in the hypothalamus to control pituitary gonadotropin production and reproductive function in all mammalian species. Estradiol is a critical component for the communication between the gonads and the central nervous system. Resolving the mechanisms by which estradiol modulates GnRH neurons is critical for the understanding of how fertility is regulated. Extensive studies during the past decades have provided compelling evidence that estradiol has the potential to alter the intracellular signal transduction mechanisms. The common target of many signaling pathways is the phosphorylation of a key transcription factor, the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB). This review first addresses the aspects of estradiol action on CREB phosphorylation (pCREB) in GnRH neurons. Secondly, this review considers the receptors and signaling network that regulates estradiol's action on pCREB within GnRH neurons and finally it summarizes the physiological significance of CREB to estrogen feedback.
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45
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Anchan D, Gafur A, Sano K, Ogawa S, Vasudevan N. Activation of the GPR30 receptor promotes lordosis in female mice. Neuroendocrinology 2014; 100:71-80. [PMID: 25012534 DOI: 10.1159/000365574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Estrogens are important effectors of reproduction and are critical for upregulating female reproductive behavior or lordosis in females. In addition to the importance of transcriptional regulation of genes by 17β-estradiol-bound estrogen receptors (ER), extranuclear signal transduction cascades such as protein kinase A (PKA) are also important in regulating female sexual receptivity. GPR30 (G-protein coupled receptor 30), also known as GPER1, a putative membrane ER (mER), is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds 17β-estradiol with an affinity that is similar to that possessed by the classical nuclear ER and activates both PKA and extracellular-regulated kinase signaling pathways. The high expression of GPR30 in the ventromedial hypothalamus, a region important for lordosis behavior as well as kinase cascades activated by this receptor, led us to hypothesize that GPR30 may regulate lordosis behavior in female rodents. METHOD In this study, we investigated the ability of G-1, a selective agonist of GPR30, to regulate lordosis in the female mouse by administering this agent prior to progesterone in an estradiol-progesterone priming paradigm prior to testing with stud males. RESULTS As expected, 17β-estradiol benzoate (EB), but not sesame oil, increased lordosis behavior in female mice. G-1 also increased lordosis behavior in female mice and decreased the number of rejective responses towards male mice, similar to the effect of EB. The selective GPR30 antagonist G-15 blocked these effects. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that activation of the mER GPR30 stimulates social behavior in a rodent model in a manner similar to EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Anchan
- Neuroscience Program, Tulane University, New Orleans, La., USA
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Meitzen J, Luoma JI, Boulware MI, Hedges VL, Peterson BM, Tuomela K, Britson KA, Mermelstein PG. Palmitoylation of estrogen receptors is essential for neuronal membrane signaling. Endocrinology 2013; 154:4293-304. [PMID: 24008343 PMCID: PMC3800757 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In addition to activating nuclear estrogen receptor signaling, 17β-estradiol can also regulate neuronal function via surface membrane receptors. In various brain regions, these actions are mediated by the direct association of estrogen receptors (ERs) activating metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). These ER/mGluR signaling partners are organized into discrete functional microdomains via caveolin proteins. A central question that remains concerns the underlying mechanism by which these subpopulations of ERs are targeted to the surface membrane. One candidate mechanism is S-palmitoylation, a posttranscriptional modification that affects the subcellular distribution and function of the modified protein, including promoting localization to membranes. Here we test for the role of palmitoylation and the necessity of specific palmitoylacyltransferase proteins in neuronal membrane ER action. In hippocampal neurons, pharmacological inhibition of palmitoylation eliminated 17β-estradiol-mediated phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein, a process dependent on surface membrane ERs. In addition, mutation of the palmitoylation site on estrogen receptor (ER) α blocks ERα-mediated cAMP response element-binding protein phosphorylation. Similar results were obtained after mutation of the palmitoylation site on ERβ. Importantly, mutation of either ERα or ERβ did not affect the ability of the reciprocal ER to signal at the membrane. In contrast, membrane ERα and ERβ signaling were both dependent on the expression of the palmitoylacyltransferase proteins DHHC-7 and DHHC-21. Neither mGluR activity nor caveolin or ER expression was affected by knockdown of DHHC-7 and DHHC-21. These data collectively suggest discrete mechanisms that regulate specific isoform or global membrane ER signaling in neurons separate from mGluR activity or nuclear ER function.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Meitzen
- PhD, Department of Biological Sciences and W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, 127 David Clark Laboratories, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695.
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Remage-Healey L, Jeon SD, Joshi NR. Recent evidence for rapid synthesis and action of oestrogens during auditory processing in a songbird. J Neuroendocrinol 2013; 25:1024-31. [PMID: 23746380 PMCID: PMC4153829 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
It is now clear that oestrogens are not only circulating reproductive hormones, but that they also have neurotransmitter-like properties in a wide range of brain circuits. The view of oestrogens as intrinsic neuromodulators that shape behaviour has been bolstered by a series of recent developments from multiple vertebrate model systems. Here, we review several recent findings from studies of songbirds showing how the identified neural circuits that govern auditory processing and sensorimotor integration are modulated by the local and acute production of oestrogens. First, studies using in vivo microdialysis demonstrate that oestrogens fluctuate in the auditory cortex (30-min time bin resolution) when songbirds are hearing song and interacting with conspecifics. Second, oestrogens rapidly boost the auditory-evoked activity of neurones in the same auditory cortical region, enhancing auditory processing. Third, local pharmacological blockade of oestrogen signalling in this region impairs auditory neuronal responsiveness, as well as behavioural song preferences. Fourth, the rapid actions of oestrogens that occur within the auditory cortex can propagate downstream (trans-synaptically) to sensorimotor circuits to enhance the neural representation of song. Lastly, we present new evidence showing that the receptor for the rapid actions of oestradiol is likely in neuronal membranes, and that traditional nuclear oestrogen receptor agonists do not mimic these rapid actions. Broadly speaking, many of these findings are observed in both males and females, emphasising the fundamental importance of oestrogens in neural circuit function. Together, these and other emergent studies provide support for rapid, brain-derived oestrogen signalling in regulating sensorimotor integration, learning and perception.
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Amandusson Å, Blomqvist A. Estrogenic influences in pain processing. Front Neuroendocrinol 2013; 34:329-49. [PMID: 23817054 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Gonadal hormones not only play a pivotal role in reproductive behavior and sexual differentiation, they also contribute to thermoregulation, feeding, memory, neuronal survival, and the perception of somatosensory stimuli. Numerous studies on both animals and human subjects have also demonstrated the potential effects of gonadal hormones, such as estrogens, on pain transmission. These effects most likely involve multiple neuroanatomical circuits as well as diverse neurochemical systems and they therefore need to be evaluated specifically to determine the localization and intrinsic characteristics of the neurons engaged. The aim of this review is to summarize the morphological as well as biochemical evidence in support for gonadal hormone modulation of nociceptive processing, with particular focus on estrogens and spinal cord mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åsa Amandusson
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Laredo SA, Villalon Landeros R, Dooley JC, Steinman MQ, Orr V, Silva AL, Crean KK, Robles CF, Trainor BC. Nongenomic effects of estradiol on aggression under short day photoperiods. Horm Behav 2013; 64:557-65. [PMID: 23763907 PMCID: PMC3851015 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In several vertebrate species, the effects of estrogens on male aggressive behavior can be modulated by environmental cues. In song sparrows and rodents, estrogens modulate aggression in the nonbreeding season or winter-like short days, respectively. The behavioral effects of estrogens are rapid, which generally is considered indicative of nongenomic processes. The current study further examined the hypothesis that estradiol acts nongenomically under short days by utilizing a protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide (CX). Mice were housed in either short or long day photoperiods, and treated with an aromatase inhibitor. One hour before resident-intruder testing mice were injected with either CX or saline vehicle, and 30 min later were treated orally with either cyclodextrin conjugated estradiol or vehicle. Under short days, mice treated with estradiol showed a rapid decrease in aggressive behavior, independent of CX administration. CX alone had no effect on aggression. These results show that protein synthesis is not required for the rapid effects of estradiol on aggression, strongly suggesting that these effects are mediated by nongenomic processes. We also showed that estradiol suppressed c-fos immunoreactivity in the caudal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis under short days. No effects of estradiol on behavior or c-fos expression were observed in mice housed under long days. Previously we had also demonstrated that cage bedding influenced the directional effects of estrogens on aggression. Here, we show that the phenomenon of rapid action of estradiol on aggression under short days is a robust result that generalizes to different bedding conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Laredo
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California Davis, 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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Charlier TD, Cornil CA, Balthazart J. Rapid modulation of aromatase activity in the vertebrate brain. J Exp Neurosci 2013; 7:31-7. [PMID: 25157205 PMCID: PMC4089760 DOI: 10.4137/jen.s11268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous steroid hormones, including 17β-estradiol (E2), activate rapid and transient cellular, physiological, and behavioral changes in addition to their well-described genomic effects. Aromatase is the key-limiting enzyme in the production of estrogens, and the rapid modulation of this enzymatic activity could produce rapid changes in local E2 concentrations. The mechanisms that might mediate such rapid enzymatic changes are not fully understood but are currently under intense scrutiny. Recent studies in our laboratory indicate that brain aromatase activity is rapidly inhibited by an increase in intracellular calcium concentration resulting from potassium-induced depolarization or from the activation of glutamatergic receptors. Phosphorylating conditions also reduce aromatase activity within minutes, and this inhibition is blocked by the addition of multiple protein kinase inhibitors. This rapid modulation of aromatase activity by phosphorylating conditions is a general mechanism observed in different cell types and tissues derived from a variety of species, including human aromatase expressed in various cell lines. Phosphorylation processes affect aromatase itself and do not involve changes in aromatase protein concentration. The control of aromatase activity by multiple kinases suggests that several amino acids must be concomitantly phosphorylated to modify enzymatic activity but site-directed mutagenesis of several amino acids alone or in combination has not to date revealed the identity of the targeted residue(s). Altogether, the phosphorylation processes affecting aromatase activity provide a new general mechanism by which the concentration of estrogens can be rapidly altered in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charlotte A Cornil
- University of Liège, GIGA-Neurosciences, Research Group in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jacques Balthazart
- University of Liège, GIGA-Neurosciences, Research Group in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, Liège, Belgium
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