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Ucar EH, Peker C, Hitit M, Kose M, Tatar M, Bozkaya F, Atli MO. Altered luteal expression patterns of genomic and non-genomic progesterone receptors in bitches at different reproductive states. Theriogenology 2024; 218:153-162. [PMID: 38325152 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The binding of steroid hormones to their specific receptors is necessary to exert their effects on target cells. Progesterone (P4), a steroid hormone, carries out its effects through both genomic and non-genomic (the cell membrane-associated) receptors. This study aimed to ascertain luteal expression patterns of genomic and non-genomic progesterone receptors in bitches in physiological (early dioestrus and early pregnant) and pathological (pyometra) reproductive states. Luteal tissue was collected from the bitches at early dioestrus (ED, n = 5), early pregnant (EP, n = 5), and pyometra (PY, n = 5). The expression profiles of Steroidogenic Acute Regulator Protein (STAR), Progesterone Receptor (PGR), Membrane Progestin Receptors (PAQR5, PAQR7 and PAQR8), and Progesterone Membrane Components (PGMRC1 and PGMRC2) were examined at the mRNA levels using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Protein levels of PGR, PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were detected by western blotting (WB). The STAR expression was found in all groups, with a statistical difference observed between EP and PY groups (P < 0.05). The protein level of PGR was determined to be highest in the EP group and lowest in the PY group. The expression of PAQR8 increased in the EP group (P < 0.05). The PAQR5 exhibited high expression in the EP group and low expression in the PY group (P < 0.05). PGRMC1 was more elevated in the EP group and lower in the PY group (P < 0.05). Protein levels of PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were also observed at the highest expression in EP group. According to the altered expression profiles for examined receptors, we suggest that those progesterone receptors have roles in early pregnancy or pyometra in bitches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyyup Hakan Ucar
- Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Cevdet Peker
- Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Hitit
- Kastamonu University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal Genetics, Kastamonu, Turkey; Prairie View University, College of Agriculture, Food and Human Sciences, Prairie View, TX, USA.
| | - Mehmet Kose
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Diyarbakir, Turkey.
| | - Musa Tatar
- Kastamonu University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Emrbyology, Kastamonu, Turkey.
| | - Faruk Bozkaya
- Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal Science and Animal Nutrition/Department of Veterinary Genetics, Sanliurfa, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Osman Atli
- Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Reproduction and Artificial Inseminatio, Sanliurfa, Turkey.
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2
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Kazemian A, Tavares Pereira M, Aslan S, Payan-Carreira R, Reichler IM, Agaoglu RA, Kowalewski MP. Membrane-bound progesterone receptors in the canine uterus and placenta; possible targets in the maintenance of pregnancy. Theriogenology 2023; 210:68-83. [PMID: 37480804 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
To date, the biological functions of P4 within the canine placenta have been attributed to maternal stroma-derived decidual cells as the only placental cells expressing the nuclear P4 receptor (PGR). However, P4 can also exert its effects via membrane-bound receptors. To test the hypothesis that membrane-bound P4 receptors are involved in regulating placental function in the dog, the expression of mPRα, -β, -γ, PGRMC1 and -2 was investigated in the uterine and placental compartments derived from different stages of pregnancy and from prepartum luteolysis. Further, to assess the PGR signaling-mediated effects upon membrane P4 receptors in canine decidual cells, in vitro decidualized dog uterine stromal (DUS) cells were treated with type II antigestagens (aglepristone or mifepristone). The expression of all membrane P4 receptors was detectable in reproductive tissues and in DUS cells. The main findings indicate their distinguishable placental spatio-temporal distribution; PGRMC2 was predominantly found in decidual cells, PGRMC1 was strong in maternal endothelial compartments, and syncytiotrophoblast showed abundant levels of mPRα and mPRβ. In vitro decidualization was associated with increased expression of PGRMC1 and -2, while their protein levels were diminished by antigestagen treatment. The involvement of membrane-bound P4 signaling in the regulation of canine placental function is implied, with P4 effects being directly exerted through maternal and fetal cellular compartments. The indirect effects of PGR might involve the modulation of membrane-bound receptors availability in decidual cells, implying a self-regulatory loop of P4 in regulating the availability of its own receptors in the canine placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kazemian
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Miguel Tavares Pereira
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Selim Aslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Rita Payan-Carreira
- School of Science and Technology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Évora, Évora, Portugal.
| | - Iris M Reichler
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Reha A Agaoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey.
| | - Mariusz P Kowalewski
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies (ZKS), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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3
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Yakin K, Hela F, Oktem O. Progesterone signaling in the regulation of luteal steroidogenesis. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad022. [PMID: 37289566 PMCID: PMC10631818 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The corpus luteum is the major source of progesterone, the essential hormone for female reproductive function. While progesterone activity has been the subject of extensive research for decades, characterization of non-canonical progesterone receptor/signaling pathways provided a new perspective for understanding the complex signal transduction mechanisms exploited by the progesterone hormone. Deciphering these mechanisms has significant implications in the management of luteal phase disorders and early pregnancy complications. The purpose of this review is to highlight the complex mechanisms through which progesterone-induced signaling mediates luteal granulosa cell activity in the corpus luteum. Here, we review the literature and discuss the up-to-date evidence on how paracrine and autocrine effects of progesterone regulate luteal steroidogenic activity. We also review the limitations of the published data and highlight future research priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayhan Yakin
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Francesko Hela
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Harvard Medical School, Islet Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
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4
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Wang M, Yang Y, Xu Y. Brain nuclear receptors and cardiovascular function. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:14. [PMID: 36670468 PMCID: PMC9854230 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00962-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-heart interaction has raised up increasing attentions. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are abundantly expressed in the brain, and emerging evidence indicates that a number of these brain NRs regulate multiple aspects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, heart failure, atherosclerosis, etc. In this review, we will elaborate recent findings that have established the physiological relevance of brain NRs in the context of cardiovascular function. In addition, we will discuss the currently available evidence regarding the distinct neuronal populations that respond to brain NRs in the cardiovascular control. These findings suggest connections between cardiac control and brain dynamics through NR signaling, which may lead to novel tools for the treatment of pathological changes in the CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Wang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yongjie Yang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yong Xu
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA ,grid.39382.330000 0001 2160 926XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
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5
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Atli MO, Akbalık ME, Kose M, Alak I, Atli Z, Hitit M. Expression pattern and cellular localization of two critical non-nuclear progesterone receptors in the ovine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 243:107026. [PMID: 35752032 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the expression and cellular localization of two critical non-nuclear progesterone receptors, including membrane-associated-progesterone-receptor-component-1 (PGRMC1) and progestin and adipoQ receptor family member 7 (PAQR7) throughout the estrous cycle and early pregnancy in ovine corpus luteum (CL). Ewes were randomly grouped into cyclic (C, n = 4 per group) or pregnant (P, n = 4 per group) groups. Following slaughtering, the CL was obtained from both cyclic and pregnant ewes on days 12 (C12 and P12), 16 (C16 and P16), and 22 (C22 and P22). Western blotting and RT-qPCR were utilized to assess the expression levels of PGRMC1 and PAQR7, whereas immunohistochemistry was performed to determine the localization of PGRMC1 and PAQR7 in CL. Data were evaluated by one-way ANOVA, and the P < 0.05 was considered a significant difference. PGRMC1 was shown to be expressed in both small and large luteal cells and endothelial cells in CL, while PAQR7 expression was only found in small and large luteal cells. Compared to cycle days, pregnancy increased the expression of PGRMC1. PAQR7 did not differ during early pregnancy but reduced during the functional luteolysis stage (C16). mRNA and protein expression patterns for PGRMC1 and PAQR7 were similar on the studied days. This is the first study that demonstrates the expression and cellular localization of PGRMC1 and PAQR7 in ovine CL. We suggest that these receptors could execute a significant role in the ovine CL life span in both cyclic changes and the establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet O Atli
- Department of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Erdem Akbalık
- Department of Histology and Embiyology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Kose
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey.
| | - Ilyas Alak
- Department of Biochemistry, Scholl Veterinary, Yidirim beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Zehra Atli
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Hitit
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey.
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6
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Effect of Steroid Hormones, Prostaglandins (E2 and F2α), Oxytocin, and Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha on Membrane Progesterone (P4) Receptors Gene Expression in Bovine Myometrial Cells. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040519. [PMID: 35203226 PMCID: PMC8868417 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Myometrium tissue shows the expression of non-genomic membrane progesterone (P4) receptors, such as progesterone receptor membrane components (PGRMC) 1 and 2 and membrane progestin receptors (mPR) alpha (mPRα), beta (mPRβ), and gamma (mPRγ). Their variable expression in the bovine uterus during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy suggests that ovarian steroids and luteotropic and/or luteolytic factors may regulate the expression of these receptors in the myometrium. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of P4, estradiol (E2), P4 with E2, prostaglandins (PG) E2 and F2α, oxytocin (OT), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) on the gene expression of PGRMC1, PGRMC2, serpine-1 mRNA-binding protein (SERBP1), and mPRα, mPRβ, and mPRγ in bovine myometrial cells from days 6 to 10 and 11 to 16 of the estrous cycle. The PGE2 concentration and mRNA expression were determined by EIA and real-time PCR, respectively. The data indicated that P4 and E2 can affect the mRNA expression of all studied receptors and SERPB1. However, PGE2, OT, and TNFα could only modulate the expression of PGRMC1, PGRMC2, and SERPB1, respectively. Steroids/factors changed the expression of PGRMC and mPR genes depending on the dose, the stage of the estrous cycle, and the types of receptors. This suggests that the local hormonal milieu may influence the activity of these receptors and P4 action in myometrial cells during the estrous cycle.
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7
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Wetendorf M, Li R, Wu SP, Liu J, Creighton CJ, Wang T, Janardhan KS, Willson CJ, Lanz RB, Murphy BD, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ. Constitutive expression of progesterone receptor isoforms promotes the development of hormone-dependent ovarian neoplasms. Sci Signal 2020; 13:eaaz9646. [PMID: 33023986 PMCID: PMC10251233 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aaz9646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Differences in the relative abundances of the progesterone receptor (PGR) isoforms PGRA and PGRB are often observed in women with reproductive tract cancers. To assess the importance of the PGR isoform ratio in the maintenance of the reproductive tract, we generated mice that overexpress PGRA or PGRB in all PGR-positive tissues. Whereas few PGRA-overexpressing mice developed reproductive tract tumors, all PGRB-overexpressing mice developed ovarian neoplasms that were derived from ovarian luteal cells. Transcriptomic analyses of the ovarian tumors from PGRB-overexpressing mice revealed enhanced AKT signaling and a gene expression signature similar to those of human ovarian and endometrial cancers. Treating PGRB-overexpressing mice with the PGR antagonist RU486 stalled tumor growth and decreased the expression of cell cycle-associated genes, indicating that tumor growth and cell proliferation were hormone dependent in addition to being isoform dependent. Analysis of the PGRB cistrome identified binding events at genes encoding proteins that are critical regulators of mitotic phase entry. This work suggests a mechanism whereby an increase in the abundance of PGRB relative to that of PGRA drives neoplasia in vivo by stimulating cell cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margeaux Wetendorf
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rong Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Jian Liu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Rainer B Lanz
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bruce D Murphy
- Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité, University of Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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8
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Kowalik MK, Dobrzyn K, Rekawiecki R, Kotwica J. Expression of membrane progestin receptors (mPRs) α, β and γ in the bovine uterus during the oestrous cycle and pregnancy. Theriogenology 2019; 140:171-179. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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9
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Thomson P, Langlois VS. Developmental profiles of progesterone receptor transcripts and molecular responses to gestagen exposure during Silurana tropicalis early development. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 265:4-14. [PMID: 29778442 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Environmental gestagens are an emerging class of contaminants that have been recently measured in surface water and can interfere with reproduction in aquatic vertebrates. Gestagens include endogenous progestogens, such as progesterone (P4), which bind P4-receptors and have critically important roles in vertebrate physiology and reproduction. Gestagens also include synthetic progestins, which are components of human and veterinary drugs, such as melengestrol acetate (MGA). Endogenous progestogens are essential in the regulation of reproduction in mammalian species, but the role of P4 in amphibian larval development remains unclear. This project aims to understand the roles and the regulatory mechanisms of P4 in amphibians and to assess the consequences of exposures to environmental gestagens on the P4-receptor signaling pathways in frogs. Here, we established the developmental profiles of the P4 receptors: the intracellular progesterone receptor (ipgr), the membrane progesterone receptor β (mpgrβ), and the progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (pgrmc1) in Western clawed frog (Silurana tropicalis) embryos using real-time qPCR. P4-receptor mRNAs were detected throughout embryogenesis. Transcripts for ipgr and pgrmc1 were detected in embryos at Nieuwkoop and Faber (NF) stage 2 and 7, indicative of maternal transfer of mRNA. We also assessed the effects of P4 and MGA exposure in embryonic and early larval development. Endocrine responses were evaluated through transcript analysis of a suite of gene targets of interest, including: ipgr, mpgrβ, pgrmc1, androgen receptor (ar), estrogen receptor α (erα), follicle stimulating hormone β (fshβ), prolactin (prl), and the steroid 5-alpha reductase family (srd5α1, 2, and 3). Acute exposure (NF 12-46) to P4 caused a 2- to 5-fold change increase of ipgr, mpgrβ, pgrmc1, and ar mRNA levels at the environmentally relevant concentration of 195 ng/L P4. Acute exposure to MGA induced a 56% decrease of srd5α3 at 1140 ng/L MGA. We conclude that environmental exposure to P4 induced multiple endocrine-related transcript responses in amphibians; however, the differential responses of MGA suggest that the effects of MGA are not mediated through the classical P4 signaling pathway in S. tropicalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paisley Thomson
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Institut national de la recherche scientifique - Centre Eau Terre Environnement (INRS-ETE), Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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10
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Duarte-Méndez M, Quintero-Silva J, Ramírez-Pinilla MP. Immunohistochemical localization of 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and progesterone receptors in the ovary and placenta during gestation of the placentotrophic lizard Mabuya sp (Squamata: Scincidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 261:136-147. [PMID: 29477457 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In squamates, progesterone (P) plays a key role in the inhibition of uterine mobility during egg retention in oviparous species, and during gestation in viviparous species. The corpus luteum (CL) is the main organ responsible for the production of P; however, in some species, the CL degenerates early and the P needed for gestation maintenance should be produced in other tissues. Mabuya sp (Scincidae) is a viviparous lizard with a prolonged gestation, it produces microlecithal eggs and, consequently, has an obligate placentotrophy related with a highly complex placenta. Its CL degenerates at early stages of gestation and therefore, other sources of P should exist. The aim of this study was to determine and localize by immunohistochemistry the production of P by detection of the enzyme 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and P receptors (PR) during gestation in the ovary and placenta of Mabuya sp. Positive and negative control sections were used. The ovary of this species localizes 3β-HSD and PR in the same tissues. The CL of the ovaries of females at early stages of gestation were positive for both molecules, whereas they did not localize from mid gestation to the end of pregnancy. Previtellogenic and vitellogenic follicles labelled for both molecules in the follicular epithelium and thecae. The placenta of Mabuya sp. demonstrated the potential for P production from mid gestation to the end of gestation in the uterine and chorionic tissues. PR were located in the uterine tissues throughout gestation, with a decrease towards its completion. Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of 3β-HSD mainly in the ovary of early pregnant females and in the placental tissues at mid gestation stages. Therefore, the chorioallantoic placenta of Mabuya sp. has an endocrine function producing the P needed for gestation and replacing the CL from mid gestation to the end of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Duarte-Méndez
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga Santander, Colombia
| | - Jennifer Quintero-Silva
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga Santander, Colombia
| | - Martha Patricia Ramírez-Pinilla
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga Santander, Colombia; Grupo de Estudios en Biodiversidad, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga Santander, Colombia.
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11
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Kowalik MK, Rekawiecki R, Kotwica J. Expression of membrane progestin receptors (mPRs) in the bovine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle and first trimester of pregnancy. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 63:69-76. [PMID: 29413904 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) affects luteal cell function through nuclear P4 receptors and via nongenomic mechanisms, presumably involving membrane P4 receptors. There are 2 types of these receptors: progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC) and membrane progestin receptor (mPR), including mPR alpha (mPRα), beta (mPRβ), and gamma (mPRγ), which belong to the progestin and adipoQ receptor family (PAQR 7, 8, and 5, respectively). The aim of this study was to evaluate mRNA expression, protein expression, and localization of mPRα, mPRβ, and mPRγ in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) on days 2-5, 6-10, 11-16, and 17-20 of the estrous cycle as well as on weeks 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 of pregnancy (n = 5/each period). The highest mPRα mRNA expression was found on days 11-16 (P < 0.05) and 17-20 (P < 0.001) of the estrous cycle compared with other stages of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. The mPRβ mRNA level was highest (P < 0.01) on days 11-20 of the estrous cycle and in all stages of pregnancy. mPRγ mRNA expression was highest (P < 0.001) on days 17-20 of the estrous cycle and also during weeks 9-12 of pregnancy compared with the other stages of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. Only the mPRα protein was changed during the estrous cycle; there were no significant differences in protein expression of mPRβ and mPRγ during the estrous cycle and pregnancy. Immunostaining for the mPRα, mPRβ, and mPRγ proteins was detectable in the CL sections at all stages of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. Strong positive staining was observed in small luteal cells; this reaction was less evident in large luteal cells. All proteins were also localized in endothelial cells of blood vessels. The obtained data indicate variable expression of mPRα, mPRβ, and mPRγ in bovine CL during the estrous cycle and first trimester of pregnancy and suggest that P4 may be involved in the regulation of CL function via these membrane receptors during both the estrous cycle and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Kowalik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - R Rekawiecki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - J Kotwica
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland
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12
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Polikarpova AV, Maslakova AA, Levina IS, Kulikova LE, Kuznetsov YV, Guseva AA, Shchelkunova TA, Zavarzin IV, Smirnova OV. Selection of Progesterone Derivatives Specific to Membrane Progesterone Receptors. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2017; 82:140-148. [PMID: 28320297 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297917020055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The search of selective agonists and antagonists of membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) is a starting point for the study of progesterone signal transduction mechanisms mediated by mPRs, distinct from nuclear receptors. According to preliminary data, the ligand affinity for mPRs differs significantly from that for classical nuclear progesterone receptors (nPRs), which might indicate structural differences in the ligand-binding pocket of these proteins. In the present work, we analyzed the affinity of several progesterone derivatives for mPRs of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC3 cell line that is characterized by a high level of mPR mRNA expression and by the absence of expression of nPR mRNA. The values were compared with the affinity of these compounds for nPRs. All tested compounds showed almost no affinity for nPRs, whereas their selectivity towards mPRs was different. Derivatives with an additional 19-hydroxyl group and removed 3-keto group had the highest selectivity for mPRs. These results suggest these compounds as the most selective progesterone analogs for studying the mechanisms of progestin action via mPRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Polikarpova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
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Ruan X, Zhang Y, Mueck AO, Willibald M, Seeger H, Fehm T, Brucker S, Neubauer H. Increased expression of progesterone receptor membrane component 1 is associated with aggressive phenotype and poor prognosis in ER-positive and negative breast cancer. Menopause 2017; 24:203-209. [DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Goncharov AI, Maslakova AA, Polikarpova AV, Bulanova EA, Guseva AA, Morozov IA, Rubtsov PM, Smirnova OV, Shchelkunova TA. Progesterone inhibits proliferation and modulates expression of proliferation-Related genes in classical progesterone receptor-negative human BxPC3 pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 165:293-304. [PMID: 27449817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that progesterone may possess anti-tumorigenic properties. However, a growth-modulatory role of progestins in human cancer cells remains obscure. With the discovery of a new class of membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) belonging to the progestin and adipoQ receptor gene family, it becomes important to study the effect of this hormone on proliferation of tumor cells that do not express classical nuclear progesterone receptors (nPRs). To identify a cell line expressing high levels of mPRs and lacking nPRs, we examined mRNA levels of nPRs and three forms of mPRs in sixteen human tumor cell lines of different origin. High expression of mPR mRNA has been found in pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC3 cells, while nPR mRNA has not been detected in these cells. Western blot analysis confirmed these findings at the protein level. We revealed specific binding of labeled progesterone in these cells with affinity constant similar to that of human mPR expressed in yeast cells. Progesterone at high concentration of 20 μM significantly reduced the mRNA levels of proliferation markers Ki67 and PCNA, as well as of cyclin D1, and increased the mRNA levels of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27. Progesterone (1 μM and 20 μM) significantly inhibited proliferative activity of BxPC3 cells. These results point to anti-proliferative effects of the progesterone high concentrations on BxPC3 cells and suggest that activation of mPRs may mediate this action. Our data are a starting point for further investigations regarding the application of progesterone in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey I Goncharov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Aitsana A Maslakova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Anna V Polikarpova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Elena A Bulanova
- ChemRar High-Tech Center, 2a-1 Rabochaya St., Khimki, Moscow Oblast 141400 Russia
| | - Alexandra A Guseva
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Ivan A Morozov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 32 Vavilov St., Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - Petr M Rubtsov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 32 Vavilov St., Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - Olga V Smirnova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Tatiana A Shchelkunova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Lenin Hills, 1/12, Moscow 119234, Russia.
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Progesterone, estrogen, and androgen receptors in the corpus luteum of the domestic cat, Iberian lynx ( Lynx pardinus ) and Eurasian lynx ( Lynx lynx ). Theriogenology 2016; 86:2107-2118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Valadez-Cosmes P, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Cerbón M, Camacho-Arroyo I. Membrane progesterone receptors in reproduction and cancer. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 434:166-75. [PMID: 27368976 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is a sexual steroid hormone that has a critical role in reproductive processes in males and females of several species, including humans. Furthermore, progesterone has been associated with pathological diseases such as breast, gynecological and brain cancer, regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. In the past, progesterone actions were thought to be only mediated by its intracellular receptor (PR). However, recent evidence has demonstrated that membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) mediate most of the non-classical progesterone actions. The role of the different mPRs subtypes in progesterone effects in reproduction and cancer is an emerging and exciting research area. Here we review studies to date regarding mPRs role in reproduction and cancer and discuss their functions and clinical relevance, suggesting mPRs as putative pharmacological targets and disease markers in cancer and diseases associated with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Valadez-Cosmes
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Shi B, Liu X, Thomas P, Pang Y, Xu Y, Li X, Li X. Identification and characterization of a progestin and adipoQ receptor (PAQR) structurally related to Paqr7 in the ovary of Cynoglossus semilaevis and its potential role in regulating oocyte maturation. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 237:109-120. [PMID: 27554928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Membrane progestin receptors (mPRs) play an important role in the regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation in fish. However, details of the molecular endocrine mechanism regulating oocyte maturation in multiple spawning fish with asynchronous ovarian development remain unclear. The cDNA encoding a novel progestin and adipoQ receptor with structural similarity to mPRα (Paqr7), herein called Paqr7b, was cloned and sequenced from the ovary of half-smooth tongue sole Cynoglossus semilaevis. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Paqr7b represents an evolutionary intermediate between mPRα and mPRβ and shares high homology with other similar Paqr proteins in other teleost species. However, the tongue sole Paqr7b protein showed much greater homology to teleost mPRαs (average 52%) than mPRβs (average 40%), suggesting it may have arisen from gene duplication of mPRα. paqr7b and paqr7 mRNA exhibited similar patterns of tissue expression. The mRNA and protein of Paqr7b were ubiquitously detected in all tissues analyzed, including the ovary. Moreover, in situ hybridization results revealed that paqr7b was expressed in stage V oocytes, as well as in scattered cells in the pituitary. The expression of paqr7b mRNA in brain and ovary significantly increased from ovarian development stage II to stage V (P<0.05), and was maximal at stage V, and then sharply decreased at stage VI. The transcript level of paqr7b mRNA in the pituitary also peaked at stage V (P<0.05). Treatment of tongue sole ovarian follicles with gonadotropin consistently increased the expression level of Paqr7b protein and mRNA in both a dose- and stage-dependent manner. Microinjection of tongue sole oocytes with a morpholino antisense oligonucleotide to Paqr7b blocked the progestin induction of oocyte maturation. Our findings demonstrate an important role of Paqr7b in the regulation of oocyte maturation in tongue sole and suggest the receptor may also influence other aspects of reproduction, such as pituitary function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Shi
- Key Laboratory for the Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xuezhou Liu
- Key Laboratory for the Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas At Austin, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| | - Yefei Pang
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas At Austin, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| | - Yongjiang Xu
- Key Laboratory for the Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xiaoni Li
- Key Laboratory for the Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Li
- Key Laboratory for the Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China
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Coleson MPT, Sanchez NS, Ashley AK, Ross TT, Ashley RL. Human chorionic gonadotropin increases serum progesterone, number of corpora lutea and angiogenic factors in pregnant sheep. Reproduction 2015; 150:43-52. [PMID: 25861798 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early gestation is a critical period when implantation and placental vascularization are established, processes influenced by progesterone (P4). Although human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is not endogenously synthesized by livestock, it binds the LH receptor, stimulating P4 synthesis. We hypothesized treating pregnant ewes with hCG would increase serum P4, number of corpora lutea (CLs) and concepti, augment steroidogenic enzymes, and increase membrane P4 receptors (PAQRs) and angiogenic factors in reproductive tissues. The objective was to determine molecular alterations induced by hCG in pregnant sheep that may promote pregnancy. Ewes received either 600 IU of hCG or saline i.m. on day 4 post mating. Blood samples were collected daily from day 0 until tissue collection for serum P4 analysis. Reproductive tissues were collected on either day 13 or 25 of gestation and analyzed for PAQRs, CXCR4, proangiogenic factors and steroidogenic enzymes. Ewes receiving hCG had more CL and greater serum P4, which remained elevated. On day 25, StAR protein production decreased in CL from hCG-treated ewes while HSD3B1 was unchanged; further, expression of CXCR4 significantly increased and KDR tended to increase. PAQR7 and CXCR4 protein was increased in caruncle tissue from hCG-treated ewes. Maternal hCG exposure influenced fetal extraembryonic tissues, as VEGFA, VEGFB, FLT1, and ANGPT1 expression increased. Our results indicate hCG increases serum P4 due to augmented CL number per ewe. hCG treatment resulted in greater PAQR7 and CXCR4 in maternal endometrium and promoted expression of proangiogenic factors in fetal extraembryonic membranes. Supplementing livestock with hCG may boost P4 levels and improve reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan P T Coleson
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Nicole S Sanchez
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Amanda K Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Timothy T Ross
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
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Kowalik MK, Rekawiecki R, Kotwica J. Expression and localization of progesterone receptor membrane component 1 and 2 and serpine mRNA binding protein 1 in the bovine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1086-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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21
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Dutta S, Mark-Kappeler CJ, Hoyer PB, Pepling ME. The Steroid Hormone Environment During Primordial Follicle Formation in
Perinatal Mouse Ovaries1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:68. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.119214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Dutta
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York
| | | | - Patricia B. Hoyer
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
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Painer J, Goeritz F, Dehnhard M, Hildebrandt TB, Naidenko SV, Sánchez I, Quevedo Muñoz MA, Jewgenow K. Hormone-induced luteolysis on physiologically persisting corpora lutea in Eurasian and Iberian lynx (Lynx lynx and Lynx pardinus). Theriogenology 2014; 82:557-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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23
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Lan R, Liu F, He Z, Chen C, Liu S, Shi Y, Liu Y, Yoshimura Y, Zhang M. Immunolocalization of GnRHRI, gonadotropin receptors, PGR, and PGRMCI during follicular development in the rabbit ovary. Theriogenology 2014; 81:1139-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Peluso JJ, Pru JK. Non-canonical progesterone signaling in granulosa cell function. Reproduction 2014; 147:R169-78. [PMID: 24516175 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
It has been known for over 3 decades that progesterone (P4) suppresses follicle growth. It has been assumed that P4 acts directly on granulosa cells of developing follicles to slow their development, as P4 inhibits both mitosis and apoptosis of cultured granulosa cells. However, granulosa cells of developing follicles of mice, rats, monkeys, and humans do not express the A or B isoform of the classic nuclear receptor for P4 (PGR). By contrast, these granulosa cells express other P4 binding proteins, one of which is referred to as PGR membrane component 1 (PGRMC1). PGRMC1 specifically binds P4 with high affinity and mediates P4's anti-mitotic and anti-apoptotic action as evidenced by the lack of these P4-dependent effects in PGRMC1-depleted cells. In addition, mice in which PGRMC1 is conditionally depleted in granulosa cells show diminished follicle development. While the mechanism through which P4 activation of PGRMC1 affects granulosa cell function is not well defined, it appears that PGRMC1 controls granulosa cell function in part by regulating gene expression in T-cell-specific transcription factor/lymphoid enhancer factor-dependent manner. Clinically, altered PGRMC1 expression has been correlated with premature ovarian failure/insufficiency, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and infertility. These collective studies provide strong evidence that PGRMC1 functions as a receptor for P4 in granulosa cells and that altered expression results in compromised reproductive capacity. Ongoing studies seek to define the components of the signal transduction cascade through which P4 activation of PGRMC1 results in the regulation of granulosa cell function.
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Frye CA, Walf AA, Kohtz AS, Zhu Y. Progesterone-facilitated lordosis of estradiol-primed mice is attenuated by knocking down expression of membrane progestin receptors in the midbrain. Steroids 2014; 81:17-25. [PMID: 24269738 PMCID: PMC4540077 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [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] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Evidence is emerging of the role of membrane progestin receptors (referred to as mPRs herein: members of Progestin and AdipoQ Receptor (Paqr) family) as a novel brain target in mammals, such as rats. In the present study, the role of mPRs in mice was assessed to further elucidate the conservation of this mechanism across species. The brain target investigated was the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) given its described role for rapid actions of progestins for reproduction. Studies tested the hypothesis that if mPRs are required for progestin-facilitated lordosis through actions in the VTA, then knockdown of mPRs in the VTA will attenuate lordosis. Ovariectomized (OVX) mice were subcutaneously injected with estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4), and infused with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODNs) to mPRα (Paqr7) and/or mPRβ (Paqr8) or vehicle to the lateral ventricle or VTA. Mice were assessed for reproductive behavior (lordosis and aggression/rejection quotients) in a standard mating task. Results supported our hypothesis. E2+P4-facilitated lordosis was significantly reduced, and aggression/rejection increased, with infusions of mPRα, mPRβ, or mPRαβ AS-ODNs to the lateral ventricle, compared to vehicle. E2+P4-facilitated lordosis was significantly decreased, and aggression/rejection increased, with mPRβ or mPRαβ AS-ODNs to the VTA of C57/BL6 mice. Both mPRɑ and mPRβ AS-ODNs reduced lordosis, and increased aggression/rejection, of wildtype (C57/BL6x129) mice, but not nuclear PR knockout mice. Thus, mPRs may be a novel target of progestins for reproductive behavior of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Dept. of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Dept. of Biological Sciences, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; The Center for Neuroscience, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; The Center for Life Science Research, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Dept. of Chemistry, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Alicia A Walf
- Dept. of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Dept. of Chemistry, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA; Cognitive Science Department, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180-3590, USA
| | - Amy S Kohtz
- Dept. of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Yong Zhu
- Dept. of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858-4353, USA
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Frye CA, Koonce CJ, Walf AA. Pregnane xenobiotic receptors and membrane progestin receptors: role in neurosteroid-mediated motivated behaviours. J Neuroendocrinol 2013; 25:1002-11. [PMID: 24028379 PMCID: PMC3943623 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2013] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Progestogens have actions in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) to mediate motivated behaviours, such as those involved in reproductive processes, among female rodents. In the VTA, the formation and actions of one progestogen, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP), are necessary and sufficient to facilitate sexual responding (measured by lordosis) of female rodents. Although 3α,5α-THP can be produced after metabolism of ovarian progesterone, 3α,5α-THP is also a neurosteroid produced de novo in brain regions, such as the VTA. There can be dynamic changes in 3α,5α-THP production associated with behavioural experience, such as mating. Questions of interest are the sources and targets of 3α,5α-THP. Regarding sources, the pregnane xenobiotic receptor (PXR) may be a novel factor involved in 3α,5α-THP metabolism in the VTA (as well as a direct target of 3α,5α-THP). We have identified PXR in the midbrain of female rats, and manipulating PXR in this region reduces 3α,5α-THP synthesis and alters lordosis, as well as affective and social behaviours. Regarding targets, recent studies have focused on the role of membrane progestin receptors (mPRs). We have analysed the expression of two of the common forms of these receptors (mPRα/paqr7 and mPRβ/paqr8) in female rats. The expression of mPRα was observed in peripheral tissues and brain areas, including the hypothalamus and midbrain. The expression of mPRβ was only observed in brain tissues and was abundant in the midbrain and hypothalamus. To our knowledge, studies of these receptors in mammalian models have been limited to expression and regulation, instead of function. One question that was addressed was the functional effects of progestogens via mPRα and mPRβ in the midbrain of hormone-primed rats for lordosis. Studies to date suggest that mPRβ may be an important target of progestogens in the VTA for lordosis. Taken together, the result of these studies demonstrate that PXR is involved in the production of 3α,5α-THP in the midbrain VTA. Moreover, mPRs may be a target for the actions of progestogens in the VTA for lordosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA; Institute of Artic Biology, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA; IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA
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Kowalik MK, Rekawiecki R, Kotwica J. The putative roles of nuclear and membrane-bound progesterone receptors in the female reproductive tract. Reprod Biol 2013; 13:279-89. [PMID: 24287036 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone produced by the corpus luteum (CL) is a key regulator of normal cyclical reproductive functions in the females of mammalian species. The physiological effects of progesterone are mediated by the canonical genomic pathway after binding of progesterone to its specific nuclear progesterone receptor (PGR), which acts as a ligand-activated transcription factor and has two main isoforms, PGRA and PGRB. These PGR isoforms play different roles in the cell; PGRB acts as an activator of progesterone-responsive genes, while PGRA can inhibit the activity of PGRB. The ratio of these isoforms changes during the estrous cycle and pregnancy, and it corresponds to the different levels of progesterone signaling occurring in the reproductive tract. Progesterone exerts its effects on cells also by a non-genomic mechanism by the interaction with the progesterone-binding membrane proteins including the progesterone membrane component (PGRMC) 1 and 2, and the membrane progestin receptors (mPRs). These receptors rapidly activate the appropriate intracellular signal transduction pathways, and subsequently they can initiate specific cell responses or modulate genomic cell responses. The diversity of progesterone receptors and their cellular actions enhances the role of progesterone as a factor regulating the function of the reproductive system and other organs. This paper deals with the possible involvement of nuclear and membrane-bound progesterone receptors in the function of target cells within the female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena K Kowalik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
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Frye CA, Walf AA, Kohtz AS, Zhu Y. Membrane progestin receptors in the midbrain ventral tegmental area are required for progesterone-facilitated lordosis of rats. Horm Behav 2013; 64:539-45. [PMID: 23770270 PMCID: PMC4541797 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2013] [Revised: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P₄) and its metabolites, rapidly facilitate lordosis of rats partly through actions in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The study of membrane progestin receptors (mPRs), of the Progestin and AdipoQ Receptor (PAQR) superfamily, has been limited to expression and regulation, instead of function. We hypothesized that if mPRs are required for progestin-facilitated lordosis in the VTA, then mPRs will be expressed in this region and knockdown will attenuate lordosis. First, expression of mPR was examined by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in brain and peripheral tissues of proestrous Long-Evans rats. Expression of mPRα (paqr7) was observed in peripheral tissues and brain areas, including hypothalamus and midbrain. Expression of mPRβ (paqr8) was observed in brain tissues and was abundant in the midbrain and hypothalamus. Second, ovariectomized rats were estrogen (E₂; 0.09 mg/kg, SC), and P₄ (4 mg/kg, SC) or vehicle-primed, and infused with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODNs) targeted against mPRα and/or mPRβ intracerebroventricularly or to the VTA. Rats were assessed for motor (open field), anxiety (elevated plus maze), social (social interaction), and sexual (lordosis) behavior. P₄-facilitated lordosis was significantly reduced with administration of AS-ODNs for mPRα, mPRβ, or co-administration of mPRα and mPRβ to the lateral ventricle, compared to vehicle. P₄-facilitated lordosis was reduced, compared to vehicle, by administration of mPRβ AS-ODNs, or co-administration of mPRα and mPRβ AS-ODNs, but not mPRα AS-ODNs alone, to the VTA. No differences were observed for motor, anxiety, or social behaviors. Thus, mPRs in the VTA are targets of progestin-facilitated lordosis of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Dept. of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Dept. of Biological Sciences, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; The Centers for Neuroscience, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Life Science Research, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA; Department of Chemistry, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), 202 West Ridge Research Bldg., Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
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Zhou J, Yu Q, Chen R, Seeger H, Fehm T, Cahill MA, Mueck AO, Neubauer H. Medroxyprogesterone acetate-driven increase in breast cancer risk might be mediated via cross-talk with growth factors in the presence of progesterone receptor membrane component-1. Maturitas 2013; 76:129-33. [PMID: 23856385 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The WHI trial suggests an increase of breast cancer in postmenopausal women probably according to the progestogenic compound, i.e. medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). However, the mechanism for a possible carcinogenic effect of MPA remains unclear so far. Progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1) may be important in tumorigenesis and thus may increase breast cancer risk. We investigated the influence of MPA alone and in combination with growth factors on breast cancer cells overexpressing PGRMC1. METHODS MCF-7 cells were stably transfected with PGRMC1 expression plasmid (WT-12 cells). Cells transfected only with the vector were used as control cells (EVC-cells). Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), norethisterone (NET) and progesterone (P) were tested alone and in combination with a mixture of growth factors. Cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay. RESULTS The growth factor mixture (GF) was able to induce cell proliferation in both cell types, however, the effect was much higher in the WT-12 cells. In WT-12 cells both MPA and NET alone significantly increased cell proliferation with values of 40% and 97%, respectively. Progesterone, however, had no effect. In combination with GF MPA significantly further enhanced cell proliferation as compared to the effect of MPA alone and GF alone in both cell lines. NET showed no further increase as compared to NET alone and P had no effect. CONCLUSIONS We could demonstrate a significant proliferative effect of MPA when combined with high concentrations of growth factors. This effect was more pronounced in breast cancer cells overexpressing PGRMC1. These results may be of clinical relevance since in the combined WHI trial an increased breast cancer risk was found during treatment with conjugated equine estrogens plus MPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Peluso JJ. Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 and its role in ovarian follicle growth. Front Neurosci 2013; 7:99. [PMID: 23781168 PMCID: PMC3680780 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2013.00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is synthesized in the ovary and acts directly on granulosa cells of developing ovarian follicles to suppress their rate of mitosis and apoptosis. Granulosa cells do not express nuclear progesterone receptor (PGR) but rather progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1). PGRMC1 binds P4 and mediates P4's actions, as evidenced by PGRMC1 siRNA studies. PGRMC1 acts by binding plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 RNA-binding protein and regulating gene expression. Specifically, PGRMC1 suppresses some genes that promote cell death (i.e., Bad, Caspase-3, Caspase-4). P4 regulates gene expression in part by inhibiting PGRMC1 binding to Tcf/Lef transcription sites, thereby reducing Tcf/Lef transcriptional activity. Since Tcf/Lef transcription sites are located within the promoters of genes that initiate mitosis and/or apoptosis (i.e., c-jun and c-myc), P4-PGRMC1 mediated suppression of these Tcf/Lef regulated genes could account for P4's actions. PGRMC1 expression is also altered in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, premature ovarian failure and infertility. Collectively, these observations support a role for PGRMC1 in regulating human ovarian follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Peluso
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center Farmington CT, USA ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center Farmington CT, USA
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Neubauer H, Ma Q, Zhou J, Yu Q, Ruan X, Seeger H, Fehm T, Mueck AO. Possible role of PGRMC1 in breast cancer development. Climacteric 2013; 16:509-13. [PMID: 23758160 DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2013.800038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Hormone therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer. Thus, especially the addition of synthetic progestins may play a decisive role according to the results of clinical studies. Overexpression of a special receptor, i.e. the progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1), may offer a potential new pathway to explain the observed increase in breast cancer risk in the combined arm of the Women's Health Initiative. PGRMC1 is expressed in breast cancer tissue and may be important in tumorigenesis. The expression of PGRMC1 in breast cancer tissue is significantly different from that in normal mammary glands. Certain synthetic progestins can increase the proliferation of PGRMC1-overexpressing breast cancer cells and may thus be involved in tumorigenesis, while progesterone and certain synthetic progestins such as nomegestrol or chlormadinone acetate react neutrally. Our investigations point towards an important role of estrogen receptor-α in the signaling cascade, resulting in the proliferative effect induced by progestins. Thus, activation of PGRMC1 may explain the increased breast cancer risk observed during treatment with certain progestins. Very recently, PGRMC1 was investigated in serum samples of lung cancer patients and matched healthy patients; significantly higher concentrations were shown in the cancer patients. Therefore, PGRMC1 might be a predictor for other cancers as well but, according to clinical trials, its importance for a possible screening tool, particularly for breast cancer risk during hormone therapy, seems of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Neubauer
- University Women's Hospital , Düsseldorf , Germany
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Chaffin CL, VandeVoort CA. Follicle growth, ovulation, and luteal formation in primates and rodents: A comparative perspective. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2013; 238:539-48. [DOI: 10.1177/1535370213489437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian function has a great deal of functional overlap between species; antral follicles grow in response to FSH, ovulation involves proteolysis, and the steroidogenic pathway is largely the same. However, embedded in these similarities are important differences that reflect the evolutionary and natural history of species and may focus future research into these critical areas. This review compares ovarian function of rats and mice with primates, focusing on estradiol and follicle growth, steroidogenesis and rupture during the periovulatory interval, and the formation of a functional corpus luteum, drawing the conclusion that careful comparison of species yields more functional information about both than studying them in isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles L Chaffin
- Department of OB/GYN & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Catherine A VandeVoort
- California National Primate Research Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Parillo F, Dall’Aglio C, Brecchia G, Maranesi M, Polisca A, Boiti C, Zerani M. Aglepristone (RU534) effects on luteal function of pseudopregnant rabbits: Steroid receptors, enzymatic activities, and hormone productions in corpus luteum and uterus. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 138:118-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kowalik MK, Slonina D, Rekawiecki R, Kotwica J. Expression of progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC) 1 and 2, serpine mRNA binding protein 1 (SERBP1) and nuclear progesterone receptor (PGR) in the bovine endometrium during the estrous cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. Reprod Biol 2013; 13:15-23. [PMID: 23522067 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2013.01.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is involved in the regulation of essential reproductive functions affecting the target cells through both nuclear progesterone receptors (PGRs) and membrane progesterone receptors. The aim of this study was to determine the mRNA and protein expression for PGRMC1, PGRMC2, SERBP1 and PGR within the bovine endometrium during the estrous cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. There were no changes in PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 mRNA and protein expression during the estrous cycle, however, mRNA levels of PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 were increased (P<0.001) in pregnant animals. SERBP1 mRNA expression was increased (P<0.05), while the level of this protein was decreased (P<0.05) on days 11-16 of the estrous cycle. The expression of PGR mRNA was higher (P<0.01) on days 17-20 compared to days 6-10 and 11-16 of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. PGR-A and PGR-B protein levels were elevated on days 1-5 and 17-20 of the estrous cycle as compared to other stages of the cycle and during pregnancy. In conclusion, our results indicate that P4 may influence endometrial cells through both genomic and nongenomic way. This mechanism may contribute to the regulation of the estrous cycle and provide protection during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena K Kowalik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
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Akama KT, Thompson LI, Milner TA, McEwen BS. Post-synaptic density-95 (PSD-95) binding capacity of G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), an estrogen receptor that can be identified in hippocampal dendritic spines. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:6438-50. [PMID: 23300088 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.412478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The estrogen 17β-estradiol (E2) modulates dendritic spine plasticity in the cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) region of the hippocampus, and GPR30 (G-protein coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1)) is an estrogen-sensitive G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is expressed in the mammalian brain and in specific subregions that are responsive to E2, including the hippocampus. The subcellular localization of hippocampal GPR30, however, remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that GPR30 immunoreactivity is detected in dendritic spines of rat CA1 hippocampal neurons in vivo and that GPR30 protein can be found in rat brain synaptosomes. GPR30 immunoreactivity is identified at the post-synaptic density (PSD) and in the adjacent peri-synaptic zone, and GPR30 can associate with the spine scaffolding protein PSD-95 both in vitro and in vivo. This PSD-95 binding capacity of GPR30 is specific and determined by the receptor C-terminal tail that is both necessary and sufficient for PSD-95 interaction. The interaction with PSD-95 functions to increase GPR30 protein levels residing at the plasma membrane surface. GPR30 associates with the N-terminal tandem pair of PDZ domains in PSD-95, suggesting that PSD-95 may be involved in clustering GPR30 with other receptors in the hippocampus. We demonstrate that GPR30 has the potential to associate with additional post-synaptic GPCRs, including the membrane progestin receptor, the corticotropin releasing hormone receptor, and the 5HT1a serotonin receptor. These data demonstrate that GPR30 is well positioned in the dendritic spine compartment to integrate E2 sensitivity directly onto multiple inputs on synaptic activity and might begin to provide a molecular explanation as to how E2 modulates dendritic spine plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith T Akama
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
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Ndiaye K, Poole DH, Walusimbi S, Cannon MJ, Toyokawa K, Maalouf SW, Dong J, Thomas P, Pate JL. Progesterone effects on lymphocytes may be mediated by membrane progesterone receptors. J Reprod Immunol 2012; 95:15-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2012.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Slonina D, Kowalik MK, Kotwica J. Expression of progesterone receptor membrane component 1, serpine mRNA binding protein 1 and nuclear progesterone receptor isoforms A and B in the bovine myometrium during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. J Reprod Dev 2012; 58:288-94. [PMID: 22277931 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.11-052t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the (1) expression of progesterone membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), serpine mRNA binding protein 1 (SERBP1) and progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA and (2) protein expression levels of PGRMC1, SERBP1 and PR isoforms A and B in the bovine myometrium during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. Uteri from cows on days 1-5, 6-10, 11-16 and 17-21 of the estrous cycle and weeks 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12 of pregnancy were used (n=5-6 per period). There were no changes (P>0.05) in PGRMC1 mRNA expression during the estrous cycle, while expression of SERBP1 and PR mRNA was the lowest (P<0.05) on days 11-16 relative to other days of the cycle. The highest mRNA expression of PGRMC1, SERBP1 and PR was found during pregnancy. There were no changes (P>0.05) in SERBP1 protein expression in cycling and pregnant cows, while the highest (P<0.05) PGRMC1 protein expression was found during weeks 3-5 of pregnancy. Similar protein expression profiles for PRA and PRB were found, and protein levels were highest on days 1-5 of the estrous cycle. From day 6 of the cycle, PRA and PRB protein expression decreased and were maintained at this lower level during pregnancy. In conclusion, our study assessed mRNA and protein expression levels of PGRMC1, SERBP1 and PR in the bovine myometrium during the estrous cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. It is possible that progesterone (P4) affects myometrial function in a genomic and nongenomic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Slonina
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland
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Elassar A, Liu X, Scranton V, Wu CA, Peluso JJ. The relationship between follicle development and progesterone receptor membrane component-1 expression in women undergoing in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:572-8. [PMID: 22245528 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2011] [Revised: 12/08/2011] [Accepted: 12/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the relationship between progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1) expression and the outcome of IVF treatment. DESIGN A prospective study in which PGRMC1 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, methylation status of the Pgrmc1 promoter, and the presence of point mutations within Pgrmc1 were obtained from granulosa (GC)/luteal cells of women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). SETTING Fertility center/basic science laboratory. PATIENT(S) Eighty-five patients undergoing IVF treatment and 10 women who were undergoing COH for the purpose of oocyte donation were included in this study. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The PGRMC1 measurements were correlated with clinical outcomes, such as number of follicles, number of retrieved oocytes, and ongoing pregnancy rates (PR). RESULT(S) The PGRMC1 mRNA levels within GC/luteal cells of 18% of IVF patients were >2.25-fold higher than those of oocyte donors. Individuals with elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels had 30% fewer large follicles and fewer oocytes retrieved. The elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels were associated with an increase in the methylation of Pgrmc1 promoter. CONCLUSION(S) In patients with elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels, gonadotropin-induced follicle development is attenuated, although sufficient numbers of follicles develop to allow for ET and subsequent pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyaa Elassar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
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Su C, Rybalchenko N, Schreihofer DA, Singh M, Abbassi B, Cunningham RL. Cell Models for the Study of Sex Steroid Hormone Neurobiology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; S2. [PMID: 22860237 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7536.s2-003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
To date many aspects of neurons and glia biology remain elusive, due in part to the cellular and molecular complexity of the brain. In recent decades, cell models from different brain areas have been established and proven invaluable toward understanding this complexity. In the field of steroid hormone neurobiology, an important question is: what is the profile of steroid hormone receptor expression in these specific cell lines? Currently, a clear summary of such receptor profiling is lacking. For this reason, we summarized in this review the expression of estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors in several widely used cell lines (glial and neuronal) derived from the forebrain and midbrain, based on our own data and that from the literature. Such information will aid in the selection of specific cell lines used to test hypotheses related to the biology of estrogens, progestins, and/or androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Su
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX 76107 USA
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Expression of membrane progesterone receptors (mPR/PAQR) in ovarian cancer cells: implications for progesterone-induced signaling events. Discov Oncol 2011; 1:167-76. [PMID: 21761364 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-010-0023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The high mortality rates associated with ovarian cancer are largely due to a lack of highly effective treatment options for advanced stage disease; a time when initial diagnosis most commonly occurs. Recent evidence suggests that the steroid hormone, progesterone, may possess anti-tumorigenic properties. With the discovery of a new class of membrane-bound progesterone receptors (mPRs) belonging to the progestin and adipoQ receptor (PAQR) gene family in the ovary, there are undefined mechanisms by which progesterone may inhibit tumor progression. Therefore, our goal was to define potential mPR-dependent signaling mechanisms operative in ovarian cancer cells. We detected abundant mPRα (PAQR7), mPRβ (PAQR8), and mPRγ (PAQR5), but not classical nuclear PR (A or B isoforms) mRNA expression and mPRα protein expression in a panel of commonly used ovarian cancer cell lines. In contrast to mPR action in breast cancer cells, progesterone alone failed to induce changes in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in ovarian cancer cells. However, progesterone enhanced cAMP production by β(1,2)-adrenergic receptors and increased isoproterenol-induced transcription from a cAMP response element (CRE)-driven reporter gene. Independently of β-adrenergic signaling, we additionally observed activation of both JNK1/2 and p38 MAPK in response to progesterone alone. This finding was supported by the results of a screen for potential mPR gene targets. Progesterone induced a significant increase in transcription of the pro-apoptotic marker BAX, whose activity and expression has been linked to JNK1/2 and p38 signaling. Inhibitors of JNK, but not p38, blocked progesterone-induced BAX expression. Taken together, these observations implicate at least two distinct signaling pathways that may be utilized by mPRs in ovarian cancer cells that exhibit regulatory genomic changes. These studies on mPR signaling in ovarian cancer lay the foundation for future work aimed at understanding how progesterone exerts its anti-tumorigenic effects in the ovary and suggest that pharmacologic activation of mPRs, abundantly expressed in ovarian cancers, may provide a new treatment option for patients with advanced stage disease.
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Abstract
The differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) into functional oocytes is important for the continuation of species. In mammals, PGCs begin to differentiate into oocytes during embryonic development. Oocytes develop in clusters called germ line cysts. During fetal or neonatal development, germ cell cysts break apart into single oocytes that become surrounded by pregranulosa cells to form primordial follicles. During the process of cyst breakdown, a subset of cells in each cyst undergoes cell death with only one-third of the initial number of oocytes surviving to form primordial follicles. The mechanisms that control cyst breakdown, oocyte survival, and follicle assembly are currently under investigation. This review describes the mechanisms that have been implicated in the control of primordial follicle formation, which include programmed cell death regulation, growth factor and other signaling pathways, regulation by transcription factors and hormones, meiotic progression, and changes in cell adhesion. Elucidation of mechanisms leading to formation of the primordial follicle pool will help research efforts in ovarian biology and improve treatments of female infertility, premature ovarian failure, and reproductive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa E Pepling
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244, USA.
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Jensik PJ, Arbogast LA. Differential and interactive effects of ligand-bound progesterone receptor A and B isoforms on tyrosine hydroxylase promoter activity. J Neuroendocrinol 2011; 23:915-25. [PMID: 21815951 PMCID: PMC3721978 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02197.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The classical progesterone receptors (PRs) are expressed in some hypothalamic dopaminergic and brainstem noradrenergic neurones. Progesterone influences prolactin and luteinising hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland, in part by regulating the activity of these catecholaminergic neurones. The present study aimed to determine the effects of PRs on tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) promoter activity. When CAD, SK-N-SH and CV-1 cells were transfected with TH promoter constructs and PR-A or PR-B expression vectors, progesterone treatment caused three- to six-fold increases in TH-9.0 kb promoter activity in PR-B expressing cells, although only a modest increase or no change in PR-A expressing cells. Using CAD cells, deletional analysis mapped the site of PR action to the -1403 to -1304 bp region of the TH promoter. Mutational analysis of putative regulatory sequences in this region indicated that multiple DNA elements are required for complete PR-B transactivation. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays were unable to demonstrate direct PR-B binding to TH promoter DNA sequences. However, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis indicated PR-B was recruited to the TH promoter. Two different PR-B DNA binding domain mutants had opposing effects on PR-B-mediated TH promoter activation. A GS to AA mutation located in the p-box of the first zinc finger of PR-B inhibited progesterone transactivation of the TH promoter, whereas a C to A mutation in the zinc finger increased transactivation. PR-A was able to inhibit PR-B transactivation in a dose-dependent manner, although the degree of PR-A inhibition was dependent on the TH promoter deletion construct. These data indicate that ligand-bound PR-B is recruited to DNA elements in the TH promoter and acts as a transcriptional activator of the TH gene, and also that changes in the ratio of PR-A to PR-B may affect the ability of progesterone to increase TH expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Jensik
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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Suresh PS, Jayachandra KC, Medhamurthy R. The effect of progesterone replacement on gene expression in the corpus luteum during induced regression and late luteal phase in the bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata). Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:20. [PMID: 21291521 PMCID: PMC3038151 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In higher primates, although LH/CG play a critical role in the control of corpus luteum (CL) function, the direct effects of progesterone (P4) in the maintenance of CL structure and function are unclear. Several experiments were conducted in the bonnet monkey to examine direct effects of P4 on gene expression changes in the CL, during induced luteolysis and the late luteal phase of natural cycles. METHODS To identify differentially expressed genes encoding PR, PR binding factors, cofactors and PR downstream signaling target genes, the genome-wide analysis data generated in CL of monkeys after LH/P4 depletion and LH replacement were mined and validated by real-time RT-PCR analysis. Initially, expression of these P4 related genes were determined in CL during different stages of luteal phase. The recently reported model system of induced luteolysis, yet capable of responsive to tropic support, afforded an ideal situation to examine direct effects of P4 on structure and function of CL. For this purpose, P4 was infused via ALZET pumps into monkeys 24 h after LH/P4 depletion to maintain mid luteal phase circulating P4 concentration (P4 replacement). In another experiment, exogenous P4 was supplemented during late luteal phase to mimic early pregnancy. RESULTS Based on the published microarray data, 45 genes were identified to be commonly regulated by LH and P4. From these 19 genes belonging to PR signaling were selected to determine their expression in LH/P4 depletion and P4 replacement experiments. These 19 genes when analyzed revealed 8 genes to be directly responsive to P4, whereas the other genes to be regulated by both LH and P4. Progesterone supplementation for 24 h during the late luteal phase also showed changes in expression of 17 out of 19 genes examined. CONCLUSION These results taken together suggest that P4 regulates, directly or indirectly, expression of a number of genes involved in the CL structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padmanaban S Suresh
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560012, India
| | - Kadthur C Jayachandra
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560012, India
| | - Rudraiah Medhamurthy
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560012, India
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44
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Intlekofer KA, Petersen SL. Distribution of mRNAs encoding classical progestin receptor, progesterone membrane components 1 and 2, serpine mRNA binding protein 1, and progestin and ADIPOQ receptor family members 7 and 8 in rat forebrain. Neuroscience 2011; 172:55-65. [PMID: 20977928 PMCID: PMC3024713 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.10.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2010] [Revised: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 10/18/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence suggest the existence of multiple progestin receptors that may account for rapid and delayed effects of progesterone in the CNS. The delayed effects have been long attributed to activation of the classical progestin receptor (Pgr). Recent studies have discovered novel progestin signaling molecules that may be responsible for rapid effects. These include progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (Pgrmc1), Pgrmc2, progestin and adipoQ receptor 7 (Paqr7) and Paqr8. The functions of these molecules have been investigated extensively in non-neural, but not in neural tissues, partly because it is unclear which are expressed in the brain and where they are expressed. To address these issues, we compared the distributions of mRNAs encoding Pgr, Pgrmc1, Pgrmc2, Paqr7 and Paqr8 using in situ hybridization with radiolabeled oligodeoxynucleotidyl probes in forebrain tissues of estradiol-treated female rats. We also examined the distribution of serpine mRNA binding protein 1 (Serbp1), a putative binding partner of Pgrmc1. Analyses of adjacent brain sections showed that the highest expression of mRNAs encoding Pgr, Pgrmc1, Pgrmc2 and Serbp1 was detected in several hypothalamic nuclei important for female reproduction. In contrast, expression patterns of Paqr7 and Paqr8 were low and homogeneous in the hypothalamus, and more abundant in thalamic nuclei. The neuroanatomical distributions of these putative progestin signaling molecules suggest that Pgrmc1 and Pgrmc2 may play roles in neuroendocrine functions while Paqr7 and Paqr8 are more likely to regulate sensory and cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlie A. Intlekofer
- Center for Neuroendocrinology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA 01003 USA
| | - Sandra L. Petersen
- Center for Neuroendocrinology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA 01003 USA
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45
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Dressing GE, Goldberg JE, Charles NJ, Schwertfeger KL, Lange CA. Membrane progesterone receptor expression in mammalian tissues: a review of regulation and physiological implications. Steroids 2011; 76:11-7. [PMID: 20869977 PMCID: PMC3005015 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2010.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2010] [Revised: 09/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The recent discovery of a novel, membrane localized progestin receptor (mPR) unrelated to the classical progesterone receptor (PR) in fishes and its subsequent identification in mammals suggests a potential mediator of non-traditional progestin actions, particularly in tissues where PR is absent. While early studies on mPR focused on final oocyte maturation in fishes, more current studies have examined mPRs in multiple mammalian systems in both reproductive and non-reproductive tissues as well as in diseased tissues. Here we review the current data on mPR in mammalian systems including male and female reproductive tracts, liver, neuroendocrine tissues, the immune system and breast and ovarian cancer. We also provide new data demonstrating mPR expression in the RAW 264.7 immune cell line and bone marrow-derived macrophages as well as mPR expression and downstream gene regulation in ovarian cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwen E Dressing
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis Minnesota
| | - Jodi E Goldberg
- Hamline University, St. Paul Minnesota
- Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis Minnesota
| | - Nathan J Charles
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis Minnesota
| | - Kathryn L Schwertfeger
- Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis Minnesota
| | - Carol A Lange
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis Minnesota
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46
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Intlekofer KA, Petersen SL. 17β-estradiol and progesterone regulate multiple progestin signaling molecules in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, ventromedial nucleus and sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area in female rats. Neuroscience 2010; 176:86-92. [PMID: 21185909 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 12/19/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent work identified novel progestin signaling molecules, including progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (Pgrmc1), Pgrmc2, serpine mRNA binding protein 1 (Serbp1), progestin and adiponectin receptors 7 (Paqr7) and Paqr8. These molecules mediate rapid progesterone (P(4)) effects in non-neural tissue and we recently mapped their expression in the brain. Many rapid effects of P(4) require 17β-estradiol (E(2)) and P(4) priming; therefore, we examined the effects of ovarian hormones on the expression of these non-classical progestin signaling molecules. We focused specifically on the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV), the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (SDN-POA) and the ventrolateral portion of the ventromedial nucleus (VMNvl). These brain nuclei are important for female reproduction. Ovariectomized adult female rats were implanted with capsules containing sesame oil or E(2), and injected 48 h later with sesame oil or P(4). Brains were collected 8 h later and RNA was isolated from the AVPV, SDN-POA and VMNvl. We assessed the effects of ovarian hormones on mRNA levels using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR). In the AVPV, Serbp1 mRNA levels were increased by P(4) in the presence of E(2), and Paqr8 was downregulated by P(4) alone. In the SDN-POA, combined E(2) and P(4) increased Pgrmc1 and Serbp1 mRNA levels, and E(2) alone increased Paqr8 mRNA levels. Finally, in the VMNvl, P(4) increased mRNA levels encoding Pgrmc1, Pgrmc2 and Serbp1, and the combination of E(2) and P(4) increased Pgrmc1 and Serbp1 mRNA levels. Paqr7 was not regulated by E(2) or P(4) in any brain region examined. In summary, we showed that ovarian hormones regulate novel progestin signaling molecules in brain regions important for the neuroendocrine control of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Intlekofer
- Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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Dressing GE, Pang Y, Dong J, Thomas P. Progestin signaling through mPRα in Atlantic croaker granulosa/theca cell cocultures and its involvement in progestin inhibition of apoptosis. Endocrinology 2010; 151:5916-26. [PMID: 20962051 PMCID: PMC2999484 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Although there is substantial evidence that membrane progestin receptors (mPRs) perform a critical physiological role in meiotic maturation of fish oocytes, it is unknown whether they are also intermediaries in progestin signaling in the surrounding follicular cells. Here, we show that mPRα protein is located on the plasma membranes of both granulosa and theca cells (G/T cells) isolated from Atlantic croaker ovaries and is associated with the presence of a single high affinity, limited capacity, pertussis toxin-sensitive, specific progestin [17,20β,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (20β-S)] membrane binding site with the characteristics of mPRα. Treatment of G/T cells with 20β-S caused rapid G protein activation and a transient, pertussis toxin-sensitive, decrease in cAMP levels, whereas the selective nuclear progesterone receptor agonist, R5020, did not cause G protein activation, consistent with previous reports on mPRα signaling. 20β-S treatment decreased serum starvation-induced cell death in both G/T cells and in seatrout mPRα-transfected MDA-MB-231 cells, whereas R5020 was ineffective. Moreover, a selective mPRα agonist, 10-ethenyl-19-norprogesterone, mimicked the protective action of 20β-S against cell death, which was lost upon knockdown of mPRα protein but not after progesterone receptor knockdown, further demonstrating an involvement of mPRα. Signaling molecules involved in inhibition of apoptosis, Erk and serine-threonine kinase, were activated in G/T cells by 20β-S, which suggests a potential mechanism for mPRα inhibition of apoptosis. This is the first study to demonstrate endogenous mPR signaling in the ovarian follicle and to suggest a novel physiological role for mPRα in mediating the antiapoptotic actions of progestins in ovarian follicle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwen E Dressing
- University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute, Port Aransas, Texas 78373, USA.
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Abstract
In dogs, the termination of the 3-10-month obligate anoestrus involves selection of a cohort of LH-sensitive follicles, presumably from a wave of dominant small antral follicles that would otherwise undergo atresia. The number and size of such follicles appears to increase, especially during the last 50 days of anoestrus when the already elevated concentrations of FSH become further elevated. The final selection and eventual terminal development of these follicles is caused by an increased frequency of high-amplitude LH pulses at the end of anoestrus. Concomitant increases in FSH are typically small or negligible. High concentrations of FSH in anoestrus are likely to be important in maintaining, if not stimulating, overlapping waves of dominant follicles throughout anoestrus, their expression of aromatase activity and basal oestradiol secretion sufficient to suppress LH by negative feedback. An attractive hypothesis is that late anoestrus increases in LH-stimulate synthesis of precursor androgen for already available FSH-dependent aromatase. After 7 or more days of elevated LH, and perhaps 2-5 days of semi-autonomous growth, with maximal oestradiol production reached, follicle capacity to further increase oestradiol becomes limited and excess progesterone becomes increasingly secreted. The pre-ovulatory LH surge and oestrus onset are then triggered - often synchronously and in concert with the terminal maturation of the follicles - by central effects of the large decrease in the oestrogen to progestin ratio. Follicular endocrine and paracrine events during and following the LH surge are likely similar to those reported for other species. The prolonged luteal phase lengths of 55-75 days in non-pregnant bitches bracket the 64 +/- 1 day in pregnancy and represent a genetically programmed luteal cell lifespan approximating gestation length as occurs in the luteal phase of hysterectomized animals of most polyoestrous artiodactyls and rodents. The 30-40-day slow regression after day 20 to 30 involves periodic cell death, diminution in cell size, low levels of apoptosis and minimal or modest involvement of endogenous prostaglandin F (PGF) production. The canine corpus luteum (CL) is dependent on both LH and prolactin as stimulating luteotrophins by day 15, and as required luteotrophins by days 20-25, if not earlier. Thereafter, both luteotrophins likely have cellular mechanisms of action similar to those reported for other species. Progesterone secretion during pregnancy is greatly enhanced by characteristic, and probably relaxin-stimulated, increases in prolactin concentration starting at or after day 25, and persisting to term. Near term, foetoplacental maturation results in the placental release of large, luteolytic amounts of PGF for 1-2 days pre-partum. Pre-partum luteolysis, like that induced by exogenous prostaglandin, likely involves a cascade enhanced by the removal of progesterone inhibition of PGF release and some degree of intra-luteal PGF synthesis. That a likely twofold or greater increase in progesterone production by the CL of pregnancy does not result in significantly higher serum progesterone than in non-pregnant metoestrus relates to several biological changes, including a large increase in plasma volume of distribution, increased metabolism of progesterone by increased uterine, placental and mammary masses and increased liver clearance and excretion of progesterone and progesterone metabolite. Anoestrus length and ovarian cycle intervals, variable within and among bitches, are likely affected by neuroendocrine components of an endogenous circannual cycle, albeit only photo-entrained in the Basenji breed. This may be modified by the prior luteal phase, exposure to oestrus female pheromones and as yet unknown mechanisms that likely operate via inhibitory opioidergic and/or stimulatory dopaminergic hypothalamic pathways affecting late anoestrus increases in LH.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Concannon
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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Comparison between steroid binding to membrane progesterone receptor alpha (mPRalpha) and to nuclear progesterone receptor: correlation with physicochemical properties assessed by comparative molecular field analysis and identification of mPRalpha-specific agonists. Steroids 2010; 75:314-22. [PMID: 20096719 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2010.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2009] [Revised: 01/05/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent results showing that the binding characteristics of 33 steroids for human membrane progesterone receptor alpha (hu-mPRalpha) differ from those for the nuclear progesterone receptor (nPR) suggest that hu-mPRalpha-specific agonists can be identified for investigating its physiological functions. The binding affinities of an additional 21 steroids for hu-mPRalpha were determined to explore the structure-activity relationships in more detail and to identify potent, specific mPRalpha agonists. Four synthetic progesterone derivatives with methyl or methylene groups on positions 18 or 19, 18a-methylprogesterone (18-CH(3)P4, Org OE 64-0), 13-ethenyl-18-norprogesterone (18-CH(2)P4, Org 33663-0), 19a-methylprogesterone (19-CH(3)P4, Org OD 13-0) and 10-ethenyl-19-norprogesterone (19-CH(2)P4, Org OD 02-0), showed similar or higher affinities than progesterone for hu-mPRalpha and displayed mPRalpha agonist activities in G-protein and MAP kinase activation assays. All four steroids also bound to the nPR in cytosolic fractions of MCF-7 cells. However, two compounds, 19-CH(2)P4 and 19-CH(3)P4, showed no nPR agonist activity in a nPR reporter assay and therefore are selective mPRalpha agonists suitable for physiological investigations. The structure-binding relationships of the combined series of 54 steroids for hu-mPRalpha deviated strikingly from those of a published set of 60 3-keto or 3-desoxy steroids for nPR. Close correlations were observed between the receptor binding affinities of the steroids and their physicochemical properties calculated by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) for both hu-mPRalpha and nPR. A comparison of the CoMFA field graphs for the two receptors revealed several differences in the structural features required for binding to hu-mPRalpha and nPR which could be exploited to develop additional mPR-specific ligands.
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50
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Labombarda F, Meffre D, Delespierre B, Krivokapic-Blondiaux S, Chastre A, Thomas P, Pang Y, Lydon JP, Gonzalez SL, De Nicola AF, Schumacher M, Guennoun R. Membrane progesterone receptors localization in the mouse spinal cord. Neuroscience 2009; 166:94-106. [PMID: 20025939 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2009] [Revised: 11/17/2009] [Accepted: 12/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The recent molecular cloning of membrane receptors for progesterone (mPRs) has tremendous implications for understanding the multiple actions of the hormone in the nervous system. The three isoforms which have been cloned from several species, mPRalpha, mPRbeta and mPRgamma, have seven-transmembrane domains, are G protein-coupled and may thus account for the rapid modulation of many intracellular signaling cascades by progesterone. However, in order to elucidate the precise functions of mPRs within the nervous system it is first necessary to determine their expression patterns and also to develop new pharmacological and molecular tools. The aim of the present study was to profile mPR expression in the mouse spinal cord, where progesterone has been shown to exert pleiotropic actions on neurons and glial cells, and where the hormone can also be locally synthesized. Our results show a wide distribution of mPRalpha, which is expressed in most neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and also in a large proportion of NG2(+) progenitor cells. This mPR isoform is thus likely to play a major role in the neuroprotective and promyelinating effects of progesterone. On the contrary, mPRbeta showed a more restricted distribution, and was mainly present in ventral horn motoneurons and in neurites, consistent with an important role in neuronal transmission and plasticity. Interestingly, mPRbeta was not present in glial cells. These observations suggest that the two mPR isoforms mediate distinct and specific functions of progesterone in the spinal cord. A significant observation was their very stable expression, which was similar in both sexes and not influenced by the presence or absence of the classical progesterone receptors. Although mPRgamma mRNA could be detected in spinal cord tissue by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), in situ hybridization analysis did not allow us to verify and to map its presence, probably due to its relatively low expression. The present study is the first precise map of the regional and cellular distribution of mPR expression in the nervous system, a prior requirement for in vivo molecular and pharmacological strategies aimed to elucidate their precise functions. It thus represents a first important step towards a new understanding of progesterone actions in the nervous system within a precise neuroanatomical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Labombarda
- UMR788 Inserm and University Paris-Sud 11, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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