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Tagami A, Ikeda Y, Ishizuka K, Maekawa M. Conditional disruption of Nr5a1 directed by Sox9-Cre impairs adrenal development. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12297. [PMID: 38811798 PMCID: PMC11137078 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63264-9] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the effect of Sox9-Cre-directed Nr5a1-conditional knockout (Sox9-Cre;Nr5a1flox/flox) on adrenal development. We showed that SOX9 is expressed by adrenocortical cells at E10.5-E11.5 but is extinguished no later than E12.5. The number of adrenocortical cells significantly reduced in Sox9-Cre;Nr5a1flox/flox mice while the number of cleaved caspase 3-positive cells increased compared to that in the controls at E11.5-E12.5, when the adrenal primordium (AP) is about to expand. This indicated that fetal adrenocortical cells are lost via apoptosis due to Nr5a1 ablation by E12.5. Both medulla formation and encapsulation were perturbed, accompanied by a smaller AP size, in Sox9-Cre;Nr5a1flox/flox mice during embryonic development. Adult Sox9-Cre;Nr5a1flox/flox adrenals were hypoplastic and exhibited irregular organization of the medulla with aberrant sex differentiation in the X zone. Additionally, there were histologically eosin-negative vacuolated cells, which were negative for both the X-zone marker 20αHSD and the steroidogenesis marker 3βHSD at the innermost cortex of Sox9-Cre;Nr5a1flox/flox adrenals. Although Nr5a1+/- adrenals were hypoplastic, a small number of chromaffin cells were properly located in the center, having normal sex differences in the X-zone. The results collectively provided in-vivo evidence that Nr5a1 plays a critical role in AP expansion and subsequent adrenal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Tagami
- Department of Anatomy, School of Dentistry, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8650, Japan
| | - Yayoi Ikeda
- Department of Anatomy, School of Dentistry, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8650, Japan.
| | - Kyoko Ishizuka
- Department of Anatomy, School of Dentistry, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8650, Japan
| | - Mamiko Maekawa
- Department of Anatomy, School of Dentistry, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8650, Japan
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2
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Niu H, Li C, Zhang H, Liu H, Shang C, Jia Y, Wuenjiya, Li Z, Wang A, Jin Y, Lin P. Androgen synthesis cell-specific CREBZF deficiency alters adrenal cortex steroid secretion and develops behavioral abnormalities in adult male mice. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23650. [PMID: 38696238 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400130r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The global challenge of male infertility is escalating, notably due to the decreased testosterone (T) synthesis in testicular Leydig cells under stress, underscoring the critical need for a more profound understanding of its regulatory mechanisms. CREBZF, a novel basic region-leucine zipper transcription factor, regulates testosterone synthesis in mouse Leydig cells in vitro; however, further validation through in vivo experiments is essential. Our study utilized Cyp17a1-Cre to knock out CREBZF in androgen-synthesis cells and explored the physiological roles of CREBZF in fertility, steroid hormone synthesis, and behaviors in adult male mice. Conditional knockout (cKO) CREBZF did not affect fertility and serum testosterone level in male mice. Primary Leydig cells isolated from CREBZF-cKO mice showed impaired testosterone secretion and decreased mRNA levels of Star, Cyp17a1, and Hsd3b1. Loss of CREBZF resulted in thickening of the adrenal cortex, especially X-zone, with elevated serum corticosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone levels and decreased serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels. Immunohistochemical staining revealed increased expression of StAR, Cyp11a1, and 17β-Hsd3 in the adrenal cortex of CREBZF-cKO mice, while the expression of AR was significantly reduced. Along with the histological changes and abnormal steroid levels in the adrenal gland, CREBZF-cKO mice showed higher anxiety-like behavior and impaired memory in the elevated plus maze and Barnes maze, respectively. In summary, CREBZF is dispensable for fertility, and CREBZF deficiency in Leydig cells promotes adrenal function in adult male mice. These results shed light on the requirement of CREBZF for fertility, adrenal steroid synthesis, and stress response in adult male mice, and contribute to understanding the crosstalk between testes and adrenal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Niu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chao Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hexin Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haokun Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunmei Shang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanni Jia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wuenjiya
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zuhui Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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3
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Vega-Vásquez T, Langgartner D, Wang JY, Reber SO, Picard M, Basualto-Alarcón C. Mitochondrial morphology in the mouse adrenal cortex: Influence of chronic psychosocial stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 160:106683. [PMID: 38086320 PMCID: PMC10872515 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondria within the adrenal cortex play a key role in synthesizing steroid hormones. The adrenal cortex is organized in three functionally specialized zones (glomerulosa, fasciculata, and reticularis) that produce different classes of steroid hormones in response to various stimuli, including psychosocial stress. Given that the functions and morphology of mitochondria are dynamically related and respond to stress, we applied transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to examine potential differences in mitochondrial morphology under basal and chronic psychosocial stress conditions. We used the chronic subordinate colony housing (CSC) paradigm, a murine model of chronic psychosocial stress. Our findings quantitatively define how mitochondrial morphology differs among each of the three adrenal cortex zones under basal conditions, and show that chronic psychosocial stress mainly affected mitochondria in the zona glomerulosa, shifting their morphology towards the more typical glucocorticoid-producing zona fasciculata mitochondrial phenotype. Analysis of adrenocortical lipid droplets that provide cholesterol for steroidogenesis showed that chronic psychosocial stress altered lipid droplet diameter, without affecting droplet number or inter-organellar mitochondria-lipid droplet interactions. Together, our findings support the hypothesis that each adrenal cortex layer is characterized by morphologically distinct mitochondria and that this adrenal zone-specific mitochondrial morphology is sensitive to environmental stimuli, including chronic psychosocial stressors. Further research is needed to define the role of these stress-induced changes in mitochondrial morphology, particularly in the zona glomerulosa, on stress resilience and related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Vega-Vásquez
- Laboratory of Cellular Physiology and Metabolism, Health Sciences Department, University of Aysén, Coyhaique, Chile
| | - Dominik Langgartner
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jennifer Y Wang
- School of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Stefan O Reber
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Picard
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Behavioral Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA; Department of Neurology, H. Houston Merritt Center, Columbia University Translational Neuroscience Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Carla Basualto-Alarcón
- Laboratory of Cellular Physiology and Metabolism, Health Sciences Department, University of Aysén, Coyhaique, Chile; Anatomy and Legal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Sumińska M, Podgórski R, Fichna P, Mazur A, Fichna M. Assessment of steroid enzymes action in children and adolescents with obesity. Steroids 2023; 200:109325. [PMID: 37806604 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Rising prevalence of obesity has become an important impulse to investigate basic mechanisms involved in regulating the energy balance. It is widely accepted that steroids are potent factors affecting glucose, fat, and protein metabolism. Our study was aimed to analyze differences in the total amount of selected enzymes implicated in steroid metabolism in a group of children suffering from obesity and those with normal weight, further subdivided according to sex and pubertal stage. Data were obtained from 187 Caucasian children and adolescents, including 113 patients (63 girls, 50 boys) with obesity and 74 (34 girls, 40 boys) normal weight volunteers. Standard clinical examinations were performed in both groups. To evaluate the impact of puberty, preadolescent children and those with advanced puberty were assessed separately. Urine steroid excretion profiles were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method. Children with obesity revealed several changes in in the total amount of steroid enzymes as assessed by the relevant metabolite proportions, compared to their norm weight peers. Girls showed a significant increase in the activity of 11βHSD1, while boys demonstrated a relevant elevation in 20αHSD action. Regardless of sex, children with obesity showed an increase in the activity of 5β-reductase + 3αHSD complex and a decrease in the involvement of 11βOH-lase. The effect is attenuated when consider pre- and pubertal subgroups. We hypothesize that changes in the activity levels of selected enzymes may be a compensatory mechanism to limit the glucocorticoid exposure of key target tissues as well as to improve metabolic control and reduce long-term complications of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Sumińska
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes, Auxology and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Rafał Podgórski
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Collegium of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Piotr Fichna
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes, Auxology and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Artur Mazur
- Department of Pediatrics, Childhood Endocrinology and Diabetes, Collegium of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Marta Fichna
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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5
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Kang Y, Laprocina K, Zheng HS, Huang CCJ. Current insight into the transient X-zone in the adrenal gland cortex. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 124:297-339. [PMID: 38408801 PMCID: PMC11023618 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Mouse models have been widely used in the study of adrenal gland development and diseases. The X-zone is a unique structure of the mouse adrenal gland and lineage-tracing studies show that the X-zone is a remnant of the fetal adrenal cortex. Although the X-zone is considered analogous to the fetal zone in the human adrenal cortex, the functional significance of the X-zone has remained comparatively more obscure. The X-zone forms during the early postnatal stages of adrenal development and regresses later in a remarkable sexually dimorphic fashion. The formation and regression of the X-zone can be different in mice with different genetic backgrounds. Mouse models with gene mutations, hormone/chemical treatments, and/or gonadectomy can also display an aberrant development of the X-zone or alternatively a dysregulated X-zone regression. These models have shed light on the molecular mechanisms regulating the development and regression of these unique adrenocortical cells. This review paper briefly describes the development of the adrenal gland including the formation and regression processes of the X-zone. It also summarizes and lists mouse models that demonstrate different X-zone phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Karly Laprocina
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Huifei Sophia Zheng
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Chen-Che Jeff Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.
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Liere P, Liu GJ, Pianos A, Middleton RJ, Banati RB, Akwa Y. The Comprehensive Steroidome in Complete TSPO/PBR Knockout Mice under Basal Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032474. [PMID: 36768796 PMCID: PMC9916858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO/PBR) is a multifunctional evolutionary highly conserved outer mitochondrial membrane protein. Decades of research has reported an obligatory role of TSPO/PBR in both mitochondrial cholesterol transport and, thus, steroid production. However, the strict dependency of steroidogenesis on TSPO/PBR has remained controversial. The aim of this study was to provide insight into the steroid profile in complete C57BL/6-Tspotm1GuWu(GuwiyangWurra)-knockout male mice (TSPO-KO) under basal conditions. The steroidome in the brain, adrenal glands, testes and plasma was measured by gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). We found that steroids present in wild-type (WT) mice were also detected in TSPO-KO mice, including pregnenolone (PREG), progestogens, mineralo-glucocorticosteroids and androgens. The concentrations of PREG and most metabolites were similar between genotypes, except a significant decrease in the levels of the 5α-reduced metabolites of progesterone (PROG) in adrenal glands and plasma and of the 5α-reduced metabolites of corticosterone (B) in plasma in TSPO-KO compared to WT animals, suggesting other regulatory functions for the TSPO/PBR. The expression levels of the voltage-dependent anion-selective channel (VDAC-1), CYP11A1 and 5α-reductase were not significantly different between both groups. Thus, the complete deletion of the tspo gene in male mice does not impair de novo steroidogenesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Liere
- Disease and Hormones of the Nervous System, U1195 Inserm-Université Paris Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Guo-Jun Liu
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Kirrawee, NSW 2232, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Medical Imaging Sciences, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Antoine Pianos
- Disease and Hormones of the Nervous System, U1195 Inserm-Université Paris Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Ryan J. Middleton
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Kirrawee, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Richard B. Banati
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Kirrawee, NSW 2232, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Medical Imaging Sciences, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Yvette Akwa
- Disease and Hormones of the Nervous System, U1195 Inserm-Université Paris Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-(0)1-49591878
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DHCR24, a Key Enzyme of Cholesterol Synthesis, Serves as a Marker Gene of the Mouse Adrenal Gland Inner Cortex. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020933. [PMID: 36674444 PMCID: PMC9867314 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones are synthesized through enzymatic reactions using cholesterol as the substrate. In steroidogenic cells, the required cholesterol for steroidogenesis can be obtained from blood circulation or synthesized de novo from acetate. One of the key enzymes that control cholesterol synthesis is 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (encoded by DHCR24). In humans and rats, DHCR24 is highly expressed in the adrenal gland, especially in the zona fasciculata. We recently reported that DHCR24 was expressed in the mouse adrenal gland's inner cortex and also found that thyroid hormone treatment significantly upregulated the expression of Dhcr24 in the mouse adrenal gland. In the present study, we showed the cellular expression of DHCR24 in mouse adrenal glands in early postnatal stages. We found that the expression pattern of DHCR24 was similar to the X-zone marker gene 20αHSD in most developmental stages. This finding indicates that most steroidogenic adrenocortical cells in the mouse adrenal gland do not synthesize cholesterol locally. Unlike the 20αHSD-positive X-zone regresses during pregnancy, some DHCR24-positive cells remain present in parous females. Conditional knockout mice showed that the removal of Dhcr24 in steroidogenic cells did not affect the overall development of the adrenal gland or the secretion of corticosterone under acute stress. Whether DHCR24 plays a role in conditions where a continuous high amount of corticosterone production is needed requires further investigation.
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Abstract
Adrenarche is the maturational increase in adrenal androgen production that normally begins in early childhood. It results from changes in the secretory response to adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) that are best indexed by dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) rise. These changes are related to the development of the zona reticularis (ZR) and its unique gene/enzyme expression pattern of low 3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 with high cytochrome b5A, sulfotransferase 2A1, and 17ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 5. Recently 11-ketotestosterone was identified as an important bioactive adrenarchal androgen. Birth weight, body growth, obesity, and prolactin are related to ZR development. Adrenarchal androgens normally contribute to the onset of sexual pubic hair (pubarche) and sebaceous and apocrine gland development. Premature adrenarche causes ≥90% of premature pubarche (PP). Its cause is unknown. Affected children have a significantly increased growth rate with proportionate bone age advancement that typically does not compromise growth potential. Serum DHEAS and testosterone levels increase to levels normal for early female puberty. It is associated with mildly increased risks for obesity, insulin resistance, and possibly mood disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome. Between 5% and 10% of PP is due to virilizing disorders, which are usually characterized by more rapid advancement of pubarche and compromise of adult height potential than premature adrenarche. Most cases are due to nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Algorithms are presented for the differential diagnosis of PP. This review highlights recent advances in molecular genetic and developmental biologic understanding of ZR development and insights into adrenarche emanating from mass spectrometric steroid assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Rosenfield
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Abstract
Resident progenitor and/or stem cell populations in the adult adrenal cortex enable cortical cells to undergo homeostatic renewal and regeneration after injury. Renewal occurs predominantly in the outer layers of the adrenal gland but newly formed cells undergo centripetal migration, differentiation and lineage conversion in the process of forming the different functional steroidogenic zones. Over the past 10 years, advances in the genetic characterization of adrenal diseases and studies of mouse models with altered adrenal phenotypes have helped to elucidate the molecular pathways that regulate adrenal tissue renewal, several of which are fine-tuned via complex paracrine and endocrine influences. Moreover, the adrenal gland is a sexually dimorphic organ, and testicular androgens have inhibitory effects on cell proliferation and progenitor cell recruitment in the adrenal cortex. This Review integrates these advances, including the emerging role of sex hormones, into existing knowledge on adrenocortical cell renewal. An in-depth understanding of these mechanisms is expected to contribute to the development of novel therapies for severe endocrine diseases, for which current treatments are unsatisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodanthi Lyraki
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, France
| | - Andreas Schedl
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, France.
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Dumontet T, Martinez A. Adrenal androgens, adrenarche, and zona reticularis: A human affair? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 528:111239. [PMID: 33676986 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In humans, reticularis cells of the adrenal cortex fuel the production of androgen steroids, constituting the driver of numerous morphological changes during childhood. These steps are considered a precocious stage of sexual maturation and are grouped under the term "adrenarche". This review describes the molecular and enzymatic characteristics of the zona reticularis, along with the possible signals and mechanisms that control its emergence and the associated clinical features. We investigate the differences between species and discuss new studies such as genetic lineage tracing and transcriptomic analysis, highlighting the rodent inner cortex's cellular and molecular heterogeneity. The recent development and characterization of mouse models deficient for Prkar1a presenting with adrenocortical reticularis-like features prompt us to review our vision of the mouse adrenal gland maturation. We expect these new insights will help increase our understanding of the adrenarche process and the pathologies associated with its deregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Typhanie Dumontet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Training Program in Organogenesis, Center for Cell Plasticity and Organ Design, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Antoine Martinez
- Génétique, Reproduction et Développement (GReD), Centre National de La Recherche Scientifique CNRS, Institut National de La Santé & de La Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Université Clermont-Auvergne (UCA), France.
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11
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Gannon AL, O’Hara L, Mason IJ, Jørgensen A, Frederiksen H, Curley M, Milne L, Smith S, Mitchell RT, Smith LB. Androgen Receptor Is Dispensable for X-Zone Regression in the Female Adrenal but Regulates Post-Partum Corticosterone Levels and Protects Cortex Integrity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 11:599869. [PMID: 33584538 PMCID: PMC7873917 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.599869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adrenal androgens are fundamental mediators of ovarian folliculogenesis, embryonic implantation, and breast development. Although adrenal androgen function in target tissues are well characterized, there is little research covering the role of androgen-signaling within the adrenal itself. Adrenal glands express AR which is essential for the regression of the X-zone in male mice. Female mice also undergo X-zone regression during their first pregnancy, however whether this is also controlled by AR signaling is unknown. To understand the role of the androgen receptor (AR) in the female adrenal, we utilized a Cyp11a1-Cre to specifically ablate AR from the mouse adrenal cortex. Results show that AR-signaling is dispensable for adrenal gland development in females, and for X-zone regression during pregnancy, but is required to suppress elevation of corticosterone levels post-partum. Additionally, following disruption to adrenal AR, aberrant spindle cell development is observed in young adult females. These results demonstrate sexually dimorphic regulation of the adrenal X-zone by AR and point to dysfunctional adrenal androgen signaling as a possible mechanism in the early development of adrenal spindle cell hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Louise Gannon
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Laura O’Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ian J. Mason
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Curley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Milne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rod T. Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lee B. Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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12
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Hammer GD, Basham KJ. Stem cell function and plasticity in the normal physiology of the adrenal cortex. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 519:111043. [PMID: 33058950 PMCID: PMC7736543 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The adrenal cortex functions to produce steroid hormones necessary for life. To maintain its functional capacity throughout life, the adrenal cortex must be continually replenished and rapidly repaired following injury. Moreover, the adrenal responds to endocrine-mediated organismal needs, which are highly dynamic and necessitate a precise steroidogenic response. To meet these diverse needs, the adrenal employs multiple cell populations with stem cell function. Here, we discuss the literature on adrenocortical stem cells using hematopoietic stem cells as a benchmark to examine the functional capacity of particular cell populations, including those located in the capsule and peripheral cortex. These populations are coordinately regulated by paracrine and endocrine signaling mechanisms, and display remarkable plasticity to adapt to different physiological and pathological conditions. Some populations also exhibit sex-specific activity, which contributes to highly divergent proliferation rates between sexes. Understanding mechanisms that govern adrenocortical renewal has broad implications for both regenerative medicine and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary D Hammer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Endocrine Oncology Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kaitlin J Basham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Sumińska M, Podgórski R, Fichna P, Fichna M. Steroid Metabolism in Children and Adolescents With Obesity and Insulin Resistance: Altered SRD5A and 20α/20βHSD Activity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:759971. [PMID: 34764940 PMCID: PMC8577858 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.759971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in glucocorticoid metabolism may contribute to the development of obesity and insulin resistance (IR). Obesity in turn affects the androgen balance. The peripheral metabolism of steroids is equally an important determinant of their bioavailability and activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate steroid metabolism in obese children and to define which enzyme alterations are associated with IR. Clinical characteristics and anthropometric measurements were determined in 122 obese children and adolescents (72 girls, 50 boys) aged 8 - 18 years. 26 of them (21.3%) were diagnosed with IR (13 boys, 13 girls). Routine laboratory tests were performed and 24h urinary steroid excretion profiles were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Positive relationship between 5α-reductase (SRD5A) activity and IR was found. According to the androsterone to etiocholanolone (An/Et) ratio the activity of SRD5A was significantly increased in obese children with IR, but the difference remained insignificant once the 5α-dihydrotestosterone to testosterone (5αDHT/T) ratio was considered. Furthermore, this relationship persisted in boys but was not observed in girls. The activity of 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20αHSD) and 20β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20βHSD) was reduced only in obese girls with IR. Conclude, in the context of obese children and adolescents with IR, we surmise that increased SRD5A represents a compensatory mechanism to reduce local glucocorticoid availability. This phenomenon is probably different in the liver (restriction) and in the adipose tissue (expected increase in activity). We show significant changes in 20αHSD and 20βHSD activity in obese girls with IR, but it is difficult to clearly determine whether the activity of these enzymes is an indicator of the function in their ovaries or adrenal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Sumińska
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- *Correspondence: Marta Sumińska,
| | - Rafał Podgórski
- Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Collegium of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Piotr Fichna
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Fichna
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Berthon A, Settas N, Delaney A, Giannakou A, Demidowich A, Faucz FR, Seminara SB, Chen ME, Stratakis CA. Kisspeptin deficiency leads to abnormal adrenal glands and excess steroid hormone secretion. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 29:3443-3450. [PMID: 33089319 PMCID: PMC7906779 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Knockout mice for the kisspeptin receptor, Kiss1r (Kiss1r-/-) and its ligand kisspeptin, Kiss1 (Kiss1-/-) replicate the phenotype of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) associated with variants of these genes in humans. A recent report suggests that kisspeptin may be involved in human fetal adrenocortical development and function. Herein, we characterized the adrenal function and morphology in Kiss1-/- mice that do not go through normal puberty. Two fetal markers were expressed in eosinophilic cells potentially derived from the X-zone that should disappear at puberty in male mice and during the first pregnancy in female animals. Although the hypercorticosteronism observed in Kiss1-/- females corrected overtime, hyperaldosteronism persisted at 14 months and correlated with the overexpression of Star. To determine if KISS1 and KISS1R genes are involved in the development of primary aldosteronism (PA) and hypercortisolism [Cushing's syndrome (CS)] in humans, we sequenced these 2 genes in 65 patients with PA and/or CS. Interestingly, a patient with CS presented with a germline KISS1 variant (p.H90D, rs201073751). We also found three rare variants in the KISS1R gene in three patients with PA: p.C95W (rs141767649), p.A189T (rs73507527) and p.R229R (rs115335009). The two missense variants have been previously associated with IHH. Our findings suggest that KISS1 may play a role in adrenal function in mice and possibly adrenocortical steroid hormone secretion in humans, beyond its recently described role in human fetal adrenocortical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel Berthon
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Institut Cochin, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), INSERM, Université Paris Descartes, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Nikolaos Settas
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Angela Delaney
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Endocrinology Inter-Institute Training Programs, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Andreas Giannakou
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Andrew Demidowich
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Fabio R Faucz
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA02114, USA
| | - Margaret E Chen
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA02114, USA
| | - Constantine A Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics (SEGEN), Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Endocrinology Inter-Institute Training Programs, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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15
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Kim JH, Choi MH. Embryonic Development and Adult Regeneration of the Adrenal Gland. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2020; 35:765-773. [PMID: 33397037 PMCID: PMC7803617 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2020.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal gland plays a pivotal role in an organism's health span by controlling the endocrine system. Decades of research on the adrenal gland have provided multiscale insights into the development and maintenance of this essential organ. A particularly interesting finding is that founder stem/progenitor cells participate in adrenocortical development and enable the adult adrenal cortex to regenerate itself in response to hormonal stress and injury. Since major advances have been made in understanding the dynamics of the developmental process and the remarkable regenerative capacity of the adrenal gland, understanding the mechanisms underlying adrenal development, maintenance, and regeneration will be of interest to basic and clinical researchers. Here, we introduce the developmental processes of the adrenal gland and discuss current knowledge regarding stem/progenitor cells that regulate adrenal cortex remodeling and regeneration. This review will provide insights into the fascinating ongoing research on the development and regeneration of the adrenal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hoon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Man Ho Choi
- Molecular Recognition Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul,
Korea
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16
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Kastriti ME, Kameneva P, Adameyko I. Stem cells, evolutionary aspects and pathology of the adrenal medulla: A new developmental paradigm. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110998. [PMID: 32818585 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian adrenal gland is composed of two main components; the catecholaminergic neural crest-derived medulla, found in the center of the gland, and the mesoderm-derived cortex producing steroidogenic hormones. The medulla is composed of neuroendocrine chromaffin cells with oxygen-sensing properties and is dependent on tissue interactions with the overlying cortex, both during development and in adulthood. Other relevant organs include the Zuckerkandl organ containing extra-adrenal chromaffin cells, and carotid oxygen-sensing bodies containing glomus cells. Chromaffin and glomus cells reveal a number of important similarities and are derived from the multipotent nerve-associated descendants of the neural crest, or Schwann cell precursors. Abnormalities in complex developmental processes during differentiation of nerve-associated and other progenitors into chromaffin and oxygen-sensing populations may result in different subtypes of paraganglioma, neuroblastoma and pheochromocytoma. Here, we summarize recent findings explaining the development of chromaffin and oxygen-sensing cells, as well as the potential mechanisms driving neuroendocrine tumor initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eleni Kastriti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Polina Kameneva
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Igor Adameyko
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Neuroimmunology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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17
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Lyu Q, Wang H, Kang Y, Wu X, Zheng HS, Laprocina K, Junghans K, Ding X, Huang CCJ. RNA-Seq Reveals Sub-Zones in Mouse Adrenal Zona Fasciculata and the Sexually Dimorphic Responses to Thyroid Hormone. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5875105. [PMID: 32697836 PMCID: PMC7446775 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The sex-specific prevalence of adrenal diseases has been known for a long time. However, the reason for the high prevalence of these diseases in females is not completely understood. Mouse studies have shown that the adult adrenal gland is sexually dimorphic at different levels such as transcriptome, histology, and cell renewal. Here we used RNA-seq to show that in prepubertal mice, male and female adrenal glands were not only sexually dimorphic but also responded differently to the same external stimulus. We previously reported that thyroid hormone receptor β1 (TRβ1) in the adrenal gland is mainly expressed in the inner cortex and the fate of this TRβ1-expressing cell population can be changed by thyroid hormone (triiodothyronine; T3) treatment. In the present study, we found that adrenal glands in prepubertal mice were sexually dimorphic at the level of the transcriptome. Under T3 treatment, prepubertal females had 1162 genes differentially expressed between the saline and T3 groups, whereas in males of the same age, only 512 genes were T3-responsive. Immunostaining demonstrated that several top sexually dimorphic T3-responsive genes, including Cyp2f2 and Dhcr24, were specifically expressed in the adrenal inner cortex, precisely in an area partially overlapping with the X-zone. Under T3 treatment, a unique cortical layer that surrounds the adrenal X-zone expanded significantly, forming a distinct layer peculiar to females. Our findings identified novel marker genes for the inner adrenal cortex, indicating there are different sub-zones in the zona fasciculata. The results also highlight the sex-specific response to thyroid hormone in the mouse adrenal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongxia Lyu
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Henan University of Science and
Technology, LuoYang, Henan, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
- College of Informatics, HuaZhong Agricultural University, Wuhan,
Hubei, China
| | - Yuan Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Xiangmeng Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University
of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Huifei Sophia Zheng
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Karly Laprocina
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Kristina Junghans
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Xinxin Ding
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University
of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Chen-Che Jeff Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
- Center for Neurosciences Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn,
Alabama
- Correspondence: Chen-Che Jeff Huang, DVM, PhD, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology,
College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, 221 Greene Hall, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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18
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Ménard A, Abou Nader N, Levasseur A, St-Jean G, Le Gad-Le Roy M, Boerboom D, Benoit-Biancamano MO, Boyer A. Targeted Disruption of Lats1 and Lats2 in Mice Impairs Adrenal Cortex Development and Alters Adrenocortical Cell Fate. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5815549. [PMID: 32243503 PMCID: PMC7211035 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
It has recently been shown that the loss of the Hippo signaling effectors Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) in adrenocortical steroidogenic cells impairs the postnatal maintenance of the adrenal gland. To further explore the role of Hippo signaling in mouse adrenocortical cells, we conditionally deleted the key Hippo kinases large tumor suppressor homolog kinases 1 and -2 (Lats1 and Lats2, two kinases that antagonize YAP and TAZ transcriptional co-regulatory activity) in steroidogenic cells using an Nr5a1-cre strain (Lats1flox/flox;Lats2flox/flox;Nr5a1-cre). We report here that developing adrenocortical cells adopt characteristics of myofibroblasts in both male and female Lats1flox/flox;Lats2flox/flox;Nr5a1-cre mice, resulting in a loss of steroidogenic gene expression, adrenal failure and death by 2 to 3 weeks of age. A marked accumulation of YAP and TAZ in the nuclei of the myofibroblast-like cell population with an accompanying increase in the expression of their transcriptional target genes in the adrenal glands of Lats1flox/flox;Lats2flox/flox;Nr5a1-cre animals suggested that the myofibroblastic differentiation could be attributed in part to YAP and TAZ. Taken together, our results suggest that Hippo signaling is required to maintain proper adrenocortical cell differentiation and suppresses their differentiation into myofibroblast-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Ménard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Nour Abou Nader
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Guillaume St-Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Marie Le Gad-Le Roy
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Marie-Odile Benoit-Biancamano
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie Vétérinaire, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
- Correspondence: Alexandre Boyer, Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada. E-mail:
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19
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Retinoic acid receptor α as a novel contributor to adrenal cortex structure and function through interactions with Wnt and Vegfa signalling. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14677. [PMID: 31605007 PMCID: PMC6789122 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most frequent form of secondary arterial hypertension. Mutations in different genes increase aldosterone production in PA, but additional mechanisms may contribute to increased cell proliferation and aldosterone producing adenoma (APA) development. We performed transcriptome analysis in APA and identified retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) signaling as a central molecular network involved in nodule formation. To understand how RARα modulates adrenal structure and function, we explored the adrenal phenotype of male and female Rarα knockout mice. Inactivation of Rarα in mice led to significant structural disorganization of the adrenal cortex in both sexes, with increased adrenal cortex size in female mice and increased cell proliferation in males. Abnormalities of vessel architecture and extracellular matrix were due to decreased Vegfa expression and modifications in extracellular matrix components. On the molecular level, Rarα inactivation leads to inhibition of non-canonical Wnt signaling, without affecting the canonical Wnt pathway nor PKA signaling. Our study suggests that Rarα contributes to the maintenance of normal adrenal cortex structure and cell proliferation, by modulating Wnt signaling. Dysregulation of this interaction may contribute to abnormal cell proliferation, creating a propitious environment for the emergence of specific driver mutations in PA.
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20
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Levasseur A, Dumontet T, Martinez A. “Sexual dimorphism in adrenal gland development and tumorigenesis”. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2019.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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21
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Gannon AL, O'Hara L, Mason JI, Jørgensen A, Frederiksen H, Milne L, Smith S, Mitchell RT, Smith LB. Androgen receptor signalling in the male adrenal facilitates X-zone regression, cell turnover and protects against adrenal degeneration during ageing. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10457. [PMID: 31320667 PMCID: PMC6639311 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46049-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are known to be an essential regulator of male health. Androgen receptor (AR) is widely expressed throughout the adrenal cortex, yet the wider role for androgen signalling in the adrenal remains underexplored. To investigate AR-dependent and AR-independent androgen signalling in the adrenal, we used a novel mouse model with a specific ablation of androgen receptor in the adrenal cortex with or without reduction of circulating androgen levels by castration. Our results describe AR expression in the human and mouse adrenal and highlight that the mouse is a viable model to investigate androgen signalling in the adrenal cortex. We show androgen signalling via AR is required for X-zone regression during puberty. Furthermore, cortex measurements define differences in X-zone morphology depending on whether circulating androgens or AR have been removed. We show androgens promote both cortical cell differentiation and apoptosis but are dispensable for the formation of the definitive cortex. Additionally, investigation of aged mice with AR ablation reveals severe cortex disruption, spindle cell hyperplasia and X-zone expansion. The data described herein demonstrates AR-signalling is required to facilitate X-zone regression, cell clearance and to protect against adrenal degeneration during ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Louise Gannon
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, NSW, Australia
| | - Laura O'Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - J Ian Mason
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura Milne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
- Edinburgh Genome Foundry, Michael Swann Building, Max Bonn Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Sarah Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, NSW, Australia.
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22
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Grabek A, Dolfi B, Klein B, Jian-Motamedi F, Chaboissier MC, Schedl A. The Adult Adrenal Cortex Undergoes Rapid Tissue Renewal in a Sex-Specific Manner. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 25:290-296.e2. [PMID: 31104943 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Evolution has resulted in profound differences between males and females that extend to non-reproductive organs and are reflected in the susceptibility and progression of diseases. However, the cellular and molecular basis for these differences remains largely unknown. Here we report that adrenal gland tissue renewal is highly active and sexually dimorphic, with female mice showing a 3-fold higher turnover than males. Moreover, in males, homeostasis relies on proliferation of cells within the steroidogenic zone, but females employ an additional stem and/or progenitor compartment situated in the adrenal capsule. Using lineage tracing, sex reversal models, gonadectomy, and dihydrotestosterone treatments, we further show that sex-specific stem cell activity is driven by male hormones that repress recruitment of Gli1+ stem cells from the capsule and cell proliferation. Taken together, our findings provide a molecular and cellular basis for adrenal sex dimorphism that may contribute to the increased incidence of adrenal diseases in females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bastien Dolfi
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, iBV, Nice, France
| | - Bryan Klein
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, iBV, Nice, France
| | | | | | - Andreas Schedl
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, iBV, Nice, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer.
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23
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Huang CCJ, Kang Y. The transient cortical zone in the adrenal gland: the mystery of the adrenal X-zone. J Endocrinol 2019; 241:R51-R63. [PMID: 30817316 PMCID: PMC6675673 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The X-zone is a transient cortical region enriched in eosinophilic cells located in the cortical-medullary boundary of the mouse adrenal gland. Similar to the X-zone, the fetal zone in human adrenals is also a transient cortical compartment, comprising the majority of the human fetal adrenal gland. During adrenal development, fetal cortical cells are gradually replaced by newly formed adult cortical cells that develop into outer definitive zones. In mice, the regression of this fetal cell population is sexually dimorphic. Many mouse models with mutations associated with endocrine factors have been reported with X-zone phenotypes. Increasing findings indicate that the cell fate of this aged cell population of the adrenal cortex can be manipulated by many hormonal and nonhormonal factors. This review summarizes the current knowledge of this transient adrenocortical zone with an emphasis on genes and signaling pathways that affect X-zone cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Che Jeff Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Yuan Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Ablation of glucocorticoid receptor in the hindbrain of the mouse provides a novel model to investigate stress disorders. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3250. [PMID: 30824750 PMCID: PMC6397323 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39867-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulates responses to internal and external stressors. Many patients diagnosed with conditions such as depression or anxiety also have hyperactivity of the HPA axis. Hyper-stimulation of the HPA axis results in sustained elevated levels of glucocorticoids which impair neuronal function and can ultimately result in a psychiatric disorder. Studies investigating Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR/NR3C1) in the brain have primarily focused on the forebrain, however in recent years, the hindbrain has become a region of interest for research into the development of anxiety and depression, though the role of GR signalling in the hindbrain remains poorly characterised. To determine the role of glucocorticoid signalling in the hindbrain we have developed a novel mouse model that specifically ablates hindbrain GR to ascertain its role in behaviour, HPA-axis regulation and adrenal structure. Our study highlights that ablation of GR in the hindbrain results in excessive barbering, obsessive compulsive digging and lack of cage exploration. These mice also develop kyphosis, elevated circulating corticosterone and severe adrenal cortex disruption. Together, this data demonstrates a role for hindbrain GR signalling in regulating stress-related behaviour and identifies a novel mouse model to allow further investigation into the pathways impacting stress and anxiety.
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Seccia TM, Caroccia B, Gomez-Sanchez EP, Gomez-Sanchez CE, Rossi GP. The Biology of Normal Zona Glomerulosa and Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma: Pathological Implications. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:1029-1056. [PMID: 30007283 PMCID: PMC6236434 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The identification of several germline and somatic ion channel mutations in aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) and detection of cell clusters that can be responsible for excess aldosterone production, as well as the isolation of autoantibodies activating the angiotensin II type 1 receptor, have rapidly advanced the understanding of the biology of primary aldosteronism (PA), particularly that of APA. Hence, the main purpose of this review is to discuss how discoveries of the last decade could affect histopathology analysis and clinical practice. The structural remodeling through development and aging of the human adrenal cortex, particularly of the zona glomerulosa, and the complex regulation of aldosterone, with emphasis on the concepts of zonation and channelopathies, will be addressed. Finally, the diagnostic workup for PA and its subtyping to optimize treatment are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa M Seccia
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua PD, Italy
| | | | - Elise P Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Division of Endocrinology, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.,University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Gian Paolo Rossi
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua PD, Italy
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Brändli-Baiocco A, Balme E, Bruder M, Chandra S, Hellmann J, Hoenerhoff MJ, Kambara T, Landes C, Lenz B, Mense M, Rittinghausen S, Satoh H, Schorsch F, Seeliger F, Tanaka T, Tsuchitani M, Wojcinski Z, Rosol TJ. Nonproliferative and Proliferative Lesions of the Rat and Mouse Endocrine System. J Toxicol Pathol 2018; 31:1S-95S. [PMID: 30158740 PMCID: PMC6108091 DOI: 10.1293/tox.31.1s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The INHAND (International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria for
Lesions in Rats and Mice) Project (www.toxpath.org/inhand.asp) is a joint initiative among
the Societies of Toxicological Pathology from Europe (ESTP), Great Britain (BSTP), Japan
(JSTP) and North America (STP) to develop an internationally accepted nomenclature for
proliferative and nonproliferative lesions in laboratory animals. The purpose of this
publication is to provide a standardized nomenclature for classifying microscopic lesions
observed in the endocrine organs (pituitary gland, pineal gland, thyroid gland,
parathyroid glands, adrenal glands and pancreatic islets) of laboratory rats and mice,
with color photomicrographs illustrating examples of the lesions. The standardized
nomenclature presented in this document is also available electronically on the internet
(http://www.goreni.org/). Sources of material included histopathology databases from
government, academia, and industrial laboratories throughout the world. Content includes
spontaneous and aging lesions as well as lesions induced by exposure to test materials. A
widely accepted and utilized international harmonization of nomenclature for endocrine
lesions in laboratory animals will decrease confusion among regulatory and scientific
research organizations in different countries and provide a common language to increase
and enrich international exchanges of information among toxicologists and
pathologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Brändli-Baiocco
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Marc Bruder
- Compugen, Inc., Nonclinical Safety, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | - Mark J Hoenerhoff
- In Vivo Animal Core, Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA
| | | | - Christian Landes
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Lenz
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Hiroshi Satoh
- Iwate University, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate, Japan
| | | | - Frank Seeliger
- AstraZeneca Pathology, Drug Safety and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Takuji Tanaka
- Tohkai Cytopathology Institute, Cancer Research and Prevention, Gifu, Japan
| | - Minoru Tsuchitani
- LSI Medience Corporation, Nonclinical Research Center, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Thomas J Rosol
- Ohio University, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Athens, Ohio, USA
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Sun CJ, Jin Y, Zhang WY, Li L, Liu XW. Role of AKR1C3 in renal injury and glibenclamide is anti-inflammatory in preeclamptic rats. Gene 2018; 662:1-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Novoselova TV, Hussain M, King PJ, Guasti L, Metherell LA, Charalambous M, Clark AJL, Chan LF. MRAP deficiency impairs adrenal progenitor cell differentiation and gland zonation. FASEB J 2018; 32:fj201701274RR. [PMID: 29879378 PMCID: PMC6181639 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201701274rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin 2 receptor accessory protein (MRAP) is a single transmembrane domain accessory protein and a critical component of the hypothamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. MRAP is highly expressed in the adrenal gland and is essential for adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) receptor expression and function. Human loss-of-function mutations in MRAP cause familial glucocorticoid (GC) deficiency (FGD) type 2 (FGD2), whereby the adrenal gland fails to respond to ACTH and to produce cortisol. In this study, we generated Mrap-null mice to study the function of MRAP in vivo. We found that the vast majority of Mrap-/- mice died at birth but could be rescued by administration of corticosterone to pregnant dams. Surviving Mrap-/- mice developed isolated GC deficiency with normal mineralocorticoid and catecholamine production, recapitulating FGD2. The adrenal glands of adult Mrap-/- mice were small, with grossly impaired adrenal capsular morphology and cortex zonation. Progenitor cell differentiation was significantly impaired, with dysregulation of WNT4/β-catenin and sonic hedgehog pathways. These data demonstrate the roles of MRAP in both steroidogenesis and the regulation of adrenal cortex zonation. This is the first mouse model of isolated GC deficiency and reveals the role of MRAP in adrenal progenitor cell regulation and cortex zonation.-Novoselova, T. V., Hussain, M., King, P. J., Guasti, L., Metherell, L. A., Charalambous, M., Clark, A. J. L., Chan, L. F. MRAP deficiency impairs adrenal progenitor cell differentiation and gland zonation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana V Novoselova
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mashal Hussain
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J King
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marika Charalambous
- Medical and Molecular Genetics, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian J L Clark
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Li F Chan
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Dumontet T, Sahut-Barnola I, Septier A, Montanier N, Plotton I, Roucher-Boulez F, Ducros V, Lefrançois-Martinez AM, Pointud JC, Zubair M, Morohashi KI, Breault DT, Val P, Martinez A. Adrenocortical development: Lessons from mouse models. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2018; 79:95-97. [PMID: 29673697 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2018.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The adrenocortical gland undergoes structural and functional remodelling in the fetal and postnatal periods. After birth, the fetal zone of the gland undergoes rapid involution in favor of the definitive cortex, which reaches maturity with the emergence of the zona reticularis(zR) at the adrenarche. The mechanisms underlying the adrenarche, the process leading to pre-puberty elevation of plasma androgens in higher primates, remain unknown, largely due to lack of any experimental model. By following up fetal and definitive cortex cell lines in mice, we showed that activation of protein kinase A (PKA) signaling mainly impacts the adult cortex by stimulating centripetal regeneration, with differentiation and then conversion of the zona fasciculata into a functional zR. Animals developed Cushing syndrome associated with primary hyperaldosteronism, suggesting possible coexistence of these hypersecretions in certain patients. Remarkably, all of these traits were sex-dependent: testicular androgens promoted WNT signaling antagonism on PKA, slowing cortical renewal and delaying onset of Cushing syndrome and the establishment of the zR in male mice, this being corrected by orchidectomy. In conclusion, zR derives from centripetal conversion of the zona fasciculata under cellular renewal induced by PKA signaling, determining the size of the adult cortex. Finally, we demonstrated that this PKA-dependent mobilization of cortical progenitors is sexually dimorphic and could, if confirmed in humans, account for female preponderance in adrenocortical pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Typhanie Dumontet
- GReD, CNRS, Inserm, université Clermont-Auvergne, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Amandine Septier
- GReD, CNRS, Inserm, université Clermont-Auvergne, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Ingrid Plotton
- Molecular endocrinology and rare diseases, university hospital, Claude-Bernard Lyon 1 University, 69500 Bron, France
| | - Florence Roucher-Boulez
- Molecular endocrinology and rare diseases, university hospital, Claude-Bernard Lyon 1 University, 69500 Bron, France
| | - Véronique Ducros
- Unit of hormone and nutrition, department of biochemistry, university hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Mohamad Zubair
- Department of molecular biology, graduate school of medical sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of molecular biology, graduate school of medical sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - David T Breault
- Division of endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, department of pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Pierre Val
- GReD, CNRS, Inserm, université Clermont-Auvergne, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antoine Martinez
- GReD, CNRS, Inserm, université Clermont-Auvergne, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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Markmann S, De BP, Reid J, Jose CL, Rosenberg JB, Leopold PL, Kaminsky SM, Sondhi D, Pagovich O, Crystal RG. Biology of the Adrenal Gland Cortex Obviates Effective Use of Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors to Treat Hereditary Adrenal Disorders. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:403-412. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Markmann
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Bishnu P. De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Jasmine Reid
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Clarisse L. Jose
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | | | - Philip L. Leopold
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Stephen M. Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Odelya Pagovich
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Ronald G. Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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31
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Dumontet T, Sahut-Barnola I, Septier A, Montanier N, Plotton I, Roucher-Boulez F, Ducros V, Lefrançois-Martinez AM, Pointud JC, Zubair M, Morohashi KI, Breault DT, Val P, Martinez A. PKA signaling drives reticularis differentiation and sexually dimorphic adrenal cortex renewal. JCI Insight 2018; 3:98394. [PMID: 29367455 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.98394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The adrenal cortex undergoes remodeling during fetal and postnatal life. How zona reticularis emerges in the postnatal gland to support adrenarche, a process whereby higher primates increase prepubertal androgen secretion, is unknown. Using cell-fate mapping and gene deletion studies in mice, we show that activation of PKA has no effect on the fetal cortex, while it accelerates regeneration of the adult cortex, triggers zona fasciculata differentiation that is subsequently converted into a functional reticularis-like zone, and drives hypersecretion syndromes. Remarkably, PKA effects are influenced by sex. Indeed, testicular androgens increase WNT signaling that antagonizes PKA, leading to slower adrenocortical cell turnover and delayed phenotype whereas gonadectomy sensitizes males to hypercorticism and reticularis-like formation. Thus, reticularis results from ultimate centripetal conversion of adult cortex under the combined effects of PKA and cell turnover that dictate organ size. We show that PKA-induced progenitor recruitment is sexually dimorphic and may provide a paradigm for overrepresentation of women in adrenal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Typhanie Dumontet
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Amandine Septier
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Ingrid Plotton
- Molecular Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University Hospital, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
| | - Florence Roucher-Boulez
- Molecular Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University Hospital, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
| | - Véronique Ducros
- Unit of Hormone and Nutrition, Department of Biochemistry, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Mohamad Zubair
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - David T Breault
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pierre Val
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antoine Martinez
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Pedroso JAB, de Mendonca POR, Fortes MAS, Tomaz I, Pecorali VL, Auricino TB, Costa IC, Lima LB, Furigo IC, Bueno DN, Ramos-Lobo AM, Lotfi CFP, Donato J. SOCS3 expression in SF1 cells regulates adrenal differentiation and exercise performance. J Endocrinol 2017; 235:207-222. [PMID: 28899903 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Many hormones/cytokines are secreted in response to exercise and cytokine signaling may play a pivotal role in the training adaptations. To investigate the importance of cytokine signaling during vertical ladder climbing, a resistance exercise model, we produced mice lacking SOCS3 protein exclusively in steroidogenic factor-1 (SF1) cells (SF1 Socs3 KO mice). SF1 expression is found in steroidogenic cells of the adrenal cortex and gonads, as well as in neurons of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. Histological markers of the fetal adrenal zone (or X-zone in rodents) were still present in adult males and postpartum SF1 Socs3 KO females, suggesting a previously unrecognized effect of SOCS3 on the terminal differentiation of the adrenal gland. This change led to a distinct distribution of lipid droplets along the adrenal cortex. Under basal conditions, adult SF1 Socs3 KO mice exhibited similar adrenal weight, and plasma ACTH and corticosterone concentrations. Nonetheless, SF1 Socs3 KO mice exhibited a blunted ACTH-induced corticosterone secretion. The overall metabolic responses induced by resistance training remained unaffected in SF1 Socs3 KO mice, including changes in body adiposity, glucose tolerance and energy expenditure. However, training performance and glucose control during intense resistance exercise were impaired in SF1 Socs3 KO mice. Furthermore, a reduced counter-regulatory response to 2-deoxy-d-glucose was observed in mutant mice. These findings revealed a novel participation of SOCS3 regulating several endocrine and metabolic aspects. Therefore, cytokine signaling in SF1 cells exerts an important role to sustain training performance possibly by promoting the necessary metabolic adjustments during exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- João A B Pedroso
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro O R de Mendonca
- Department of AnatomyInstitute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco A S Fortes
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor Tomaz
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitor L Pecorali
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais B Auricino
- Department of AnatomyInstitute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ismael C Costa
- Department of AnatomyInstitute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leandro B Lima
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isadora C Furigo
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Debora N Bueno
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angela M Ramos-Lobo
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudimara F P Lotfi
- Department of AnatomyInstitute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jose Donato
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsInstitute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Levasseur A, St-Jean G, Paquet M, Boerboom D, Boyer A. Targeted Disruption of YAP and TAZ Impairs the Maintenance of the Adrenal Cortex. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3738-3753. [PMID: 28938438 PMCID: PMC5695830 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are functionally redundant transcriptional regulators that are downstream effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway. They act as major regulators of stem cell maintenance, cell growth, and differentiation. To characterize their roles in the adrenal cortex, we generated a mouse model in which Yap and Taz were conditionally deleted in steroidogenic cells (Yapflox/flox;Tazflox/flox;Nr5a1cre/+). Male Yapflox/flox;Tazflox/flox;Nr5a1cre/+ mice were characterized by an age-dependent degeneration of the adrenal cortex associated with an increase in apoptosis and a progressive reduction in the expression levels of steroidogenic genes. Evaluation of the expression levels of stem and progenitor cell population markers in the adrenal glands of Yapflox/flox;Tazflox/flox;Nr5a1cre/+ mice also showed the downregulation of sonic hedgehog (Shh), a marker of the subcapsular progenitor cell population. Gross degenerative changes were not observed in the adrenal glands of Yapflox/flox;Tazflox/flox;Nr5a1cre/+ females, although steroidogenic capacity and Shh expression were reduced, suggesting that mechanisms of adrenocortical maintenance are sex specific. These results define a crucial role for YAP and TAZ in the maintenance of the postnatal adrenal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Guillaume St-Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C6, Canada
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34
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Menzies RI, Zhao X, Mullins LJ, Mullins JJ, Cairns C, Wrobel N, Dunbar DR, Bailey MA, Kenyon CJ. Transcription controls growth, cell kinetics and cholesterol supply to sustain ACTH responses. Endocr Connect 2017; 6:446-457. [PMID: 28720595 PMCID: PMC5574282 DOI: 10.1530/ec-17-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Chronic ACTH exposure is associated with adrenal hypertrophy and steroidogenesis. The underlying molecular processes in mice have been analysed by microarray, histological and immunohistochemical techniques. Synacthen infused for 2 weeks markedly increased adrenal mass and plasma corticosterone levels. Microarray analysis found greater than 2-fold changes in expression of 928 genes (P < 0.001; 397 up, 531 down). These clustered in pathways involved in signalling, sterol/lipid metabolism, cell proliferation/hypertrophy and apoptosis. Signalling genes included some implicated in adrenal adenomas but also upregulated genes associated with cyclic AMP and downregulated genes associated with aldosterone synthesis. Sterol metabolism genes were those promoting cholesterol supply (Scarb1, Sqle, Apoa1) and disposal (Cyp27a1, Cyp7b1). Oil red O staining showed lipid depletion consistent with reduced expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis. Genes involved in steroidogenesis (Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp11b1) were modestly affected (P < 0.05; <1.3-fold). Increased Ki67, Ccna2, Ccnb2 and Tk1 expression complemented immunohistochemical evidence of a 3-fold change in cell proliferation. Growth arrest genes, Cdkn1a and Cdkn1c, which are known to be active in hypertrophied cells, were increased >4-fold and cross-sectional area of fasciculata cells was 2-fold greater. In contrast, genes associated with apoptosis (eg Casp12, Clu,) were downregulated and apoptotic cells (Tunel staining) were fewer (P < 0.001) and more widely distributed throughout the cortex. In summary, long-term steroidogenesis with ACTH excess is sustained by genes controlling cholesterol supply and adrenal mass. ACTH effects on adrenal morphology and genes controlling cell hypertrophy, proliferation and apoptosis suggest the involvement of different cell types and separate molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert I Menzies
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xin Zhao
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Linda J Mullins
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - John J Mullins
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Carolynn Cairns
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nicola Wrobel
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Donald R Dunbar
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Matthew A Bailey
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher J Kenyon
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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Xing Y, Morohashi KI, Ingraham HA, Hammer GD. Timing of adrenal regression controlled by synergistic interaction between Sf1 SUMOylation and Dax1. Development 2017; 144:3798-3807. [PMID: 28893949 DOI: 10.1242/dev.150516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear receptor steroidogenic factor 1 (Sf1, Nr5a1, Ad4bp) is crucial for formation, development and function of steroidogenic tissues. A fetal adrenal enhancer (FAdE) in the Sf1 gene was previously identified to direct Sf1 expression exclusively in the fetal adrenal cortex and is bound by both Sf1 and Dax1. Here, we have examined the function of Sf1 SUMOylation and its interaction with Dax1 on FAdE function. A diffused prolonged pattern of FAdE expression and delayed regression of the postnatal fetal cortex (X-zone) were detected in both the SUMOylation-deficient-Sf12KR/2KR and Dax1 knockout mouse lines, with FAdE expression/activity retained in the postnatal 20αHSD-positive postnatal X-zone cells. In vitro studies indicated that Sf1 SUMOylation, although not directly influencing DNA binding, actually increased binding of Dax1 to Sf1 to further enhance transcriptional repression of FAdE. Taken together, these studies define a crucial repressor function of Sf1 SUMOylation and Dax1 in the physiological cessation of FAdE-mediated Sf1 expression and the resultant regression of the postnatal fetal cortex (X-zone).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yewei Xing
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, USA
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Holly A Ingraham
- Department of Cellular Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Gary D Hammer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, USA
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Gupta R, Ma Y, Wang M, Whim MD. AgRP-Expressing Adrenal Chromaffin Cells Are Involved in the Sympathetic Response to Fasting. Endocrinology 2017; 158:2572-2584. [PMID: 28531318 PMCID: PMC5551550 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Fasting evokes a homeostatic response that maintains circulating levels of energy-rich metabolites and increases the drive to eat. Centrally, this reflex activates a small population of hypothalamic neurons that are characterized by the expression of AgRP, a neuropeptide with an extremely restricted distribution. Apart from the hypothalamus, the only other site with substantial expression is the adrenal gland, but there is disagreement about which cells synthesize AgRP. Using immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, we show AgRP is present in the mouse adrenal medulla and is expressed by neuroendocrine chromaffin cells that also synthesize the catecholamines and neuropeptide Y. Short-term fasting led to an increase in adrenal AgRP expression. Because AgRP can act as an antagonist at MC3/4 receptors, we tested whether melanotan II, an MC3/4 receptor agonist, could regulate pre- and postsynaptic signaling within the adrenal medulla. Melanotan II decreased the paired-pulse ratio of evoked synaptic currents recorded in chromaffin cells; this effect was blocked by exogenous AgRP. In contrast, neither melanotan II nor AgRP altered the optogenetically evoked release of catecholamines from isolated chromaffin cells. These results are consistent with the idea that AgRP regulates the strength of the sympathetic input by modulation of presynaptic MC3/4 receptors located on preganglionic neurons. We conclude that a small population of neuroendocrine cells in the adrenal medulla, and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, express AgRP and neuropeptide Y and are functionally involved in the systemic response to fasting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Gupta
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
| | - Yunbing Ma
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
| | - Manqi Wang
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
| | - Matthew D. Whim
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
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P53/Rb inhibition induces metastatic adrenocortical carcinomas in a preclinical transgenic model. Oncogene 2017; 36:4445-4456. [PMID: 28368424 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer with poor prognosis. Pan-genomic analyses identified p53/Rb and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathways as main contributors to the disease. However, isolated β-catenin constitutive activation failed to induce malignant progression in mouse adrenocortical tumors. Therefore, there still was a need for a relevant animal model to study ACC pathogenesis and to test new therapeutic approaches. Here, we have developed a transgenic mice model with adrenocortical specific expression of SV40 large T-antigen (AdTAg mice), to test the oncogenic potential of p53/Rb inhibition in the adrenal gland. All AdTAg mice develop large adrenal carcinomas that eventually metastasize to the liver and lungs, resulting in decreased overall survival. Consistent with ACC in patients, adrenal tumors in AdTAg mice autonomously produce large amounts of glucocorticoids and spontaneously activate WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway during malignant progression. We show that this activation is associated with downregulation of secreted frizzled related proteins (Sfrp) and Znrf3 that act as inhibitors of the WNT signaling. We also show that mTORC1 pathway activation is an early event during neoplasia expansion and further demonstrate that mTORC1 pathway is activated in ACC patients. Preclinical inhibition of mTORC1 activity induces a marked reduction in tumor size, associated with induction of apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation that results in normalization of corticosterone plasma levels in AdTAg mice. Altogether, these data establish AdTAg mice as the first preclinical model for metastatic ACC.
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Pignatti E, Leng S, Carlone DL, Breault DT. Regulation of zonation and homeostasis in the adrenal cortex. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 441:146-155. [PMID: 27619404 PMCID: PMC5235909 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The adult adrenal cortex is organized into concentric zones, each specialized to produce distinct steroid hormones. Cellular composition of the cortex is highly dynamic and subject to diverse signaling controls. Cortical homeostasis and regeneration rely on centripetal migration of steroidogenic cells from the outer to the inner cortex, which is accompanied by direct conversion of zona glomerulosa (zG) into zona fasciculata (zF) cells. Given the important impact of tissue structure and growth on steroidogenic function, it is essential to understand the mechanisms governing adrenal zonation and homeostasis. Towards this end, we review the distinctions between each zone by highlighting their morphological and ultra-structural features, discuss key signaling pathways influencing zonal identity, and evaluate current evidence for long-term self-renewing stem cells in the adult cortex. Finally, we review data supporting zG-to-zF transdifferentiation/direct conversion as a major mechanism of adult cortical renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Pignatti
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sining Leng
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Diana L Carlone
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - David T Breault
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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Vinson GP. Functional Zonation of the Adult Mammalian Adrenal Cortex. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:238. [PMID: 27378832 PMCID: PMC4908136 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard model of adrenocortical zonation holds that the three main zones, glomerulosa, fasciculata, and reticularis each have a distinct function, producing mineralocorticoids (in fact just aldosterone), glucocorticoids, and androgens respectively. Moreover, each zone has its specific mechanism of regulation, though ACTH has actions throughout. Finally, the cells of the cortex originate from a stem cell population in the outer cortex or capsule, and migrate centripetally, changing their phenotype as they progress through the zones. Recent progress in understanding the development of the gland and the distribution of steroidogenic enzymes, trophic hormone receptors, and other factors suggests that this model needs refinement. Firstly, proliferation can take place throughout the gland, and although the stem cells are certainly located in the periphery, zonal replenishment can take place within zones. Perhaps more importantly, neither the distribution of enzymes nor receptors suggest that the individual zones are necessarily autonomous in their production of steroid. This is particularly true of the glomerulosa, which does not seem to have the full suite of enzymes required for aldosterone biosynthesis. Nor, in the rat anyway, does it express MC2R to account for the response of aldosterone to ACTH. It is known that in development, recruitment of stem cells is stimulated by signals from within the glomerulosa. Furthermore, throughout the cortex local regulatory factors, including cytokines, catecholamines and the tissue renin-angiotensin system, modify and refine the effects of the systemic trophic factors. In these and other ways it more and more appears that the functions of the gland should be viewed as an integrated whole, greater than the sum of its component parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin P Vinson
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London London, UK
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Blumenfeld Z, Kaidar G, Zuckerman-Levin N, Dumin E, Knopf C, Hochberg Z. Cortisol-Metabolizing Enzymes in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2016; 10:9-13. [PMID: 27168731 PMCID: PMC4859446 DOI: 10.4137/cmrh.s35567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the activity of cortisol-metabolizing enzymes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), using a fully quantitative gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS) method. DESIGN We investigated the glucocorticoid degradation pathways that include 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) type 1, 5α-reductase (5α-R) and 5β-reductase (5β-R), 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and 20α- and 20β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20α-HSD and 20β-HSD, respectively) in young nonobese women with PCOS, using a fully quantitative GCMS method. SETTING This study was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital in Israel. PATIENTS This study group consisted of 13 young women, aged 20.1 ± 2.8 years (mean ± SD), with the body mass index (BMI) of 22.6 ± 3.7 kg/m2, diagnosed with PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria. The control group consisted of 14 healthy young women matched for weight, height, and BMI. INTERVENTIONS Urine samples were analyzed using GCMS. We measured urinary steroid metabolites that represent the products and substrates of the study enzymes and calculated the product/substrate ratios to represent enzyme activity. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The calculation of enzymatic activity, based on glucocorticoid degradation metabolites, was done by GCMS in PCOS vs. controls. RESULTS All glucocorticoid degradation metabolites were higher in the PCOS group than in controls. Of the adrenal enzymes, the activities of 21-hydroxylase and 17α-hydroxylase were reduced, whereas the activity of 17,20-lyase was enhanced in PCOS. Of the degradation enzymes, the activity of 11β-HSD type 1 was reduced in women with PCOS only when calculated from cortoles and cortolones ratios. The activities of 5α-R/5β-R were increased only when calculating the 11-hydroxy metabolites of androgens. The activity of 20α-HSD was elevated in the patients with PCOS and its relation with the substrate levels was lost. CONCLUSIONS We confirm PCOS association with low 21-hydroxylase activity. PCOS is associated with dysregulation in glucocorticoid degradation. The activity of 5α-R is enhanced only through the backdoor pathway. Marked increase in the activity of 20α-HSD suggests a hitherto unknown derangement in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Blumenfeld
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.; Rappaport Family Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gabi Kaidar
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Meyer Children's Hospital, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nehama Zuckerman-Levin
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Meyer Children's Hospital, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Elena Dumin
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Carlos Knopf
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ze'ev Hochberg
- Rappaport Family Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Kloehn I, Pillai SB, Officer L, Klement C, Gasser PJ, Evans JA. Sexual Differentiation of Circadian Clock Function in the Adrenal Gland. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1895-904. [PMID: 27007073 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in glucocorticoid production are associated with increased responsiveness of the adrenal gland in females. However, the adrenal-intrinsic mechanisms that establish sexual dimorphic function remain ill defined. Glucocorticoid production is gated at the molecular level by the circadian clock, which may contribute to sexual dimorphic adrenal function. Here we examine sex differences in the adrenal gland using an optical reporter of circadian clock function. Adrenal glands were cultured from male and female Period2::Luciferase (PER2::LUC) mice to assess clock function in vitro in real time. We confirm that there is a pronounced sex difference in the intrinsic capacity to sustain PER2::LUC rhythms in vitro, with higher amplitude rhythms in adrenal glands collected from males than from females. Changes in adrenal PER2::LUC rhythms over the reproductive life span implicate T as an important factor in driving sex differences in adrenal clock function. By directly manipulating hormone levels in adult mice in vivo, we demonstrate that T increases the amplitude of PER2::LUC rhythms in adrenal glands of both male and female mice. In contrast, we find little evidence that ovarian hormones modify adrenal clock function. Lastly, we find that T in vitro can increase the amplitude of PER2::LUC rhythms in male adrenals but not female adrenals, which suggests the existence of sex differences in the mechanisms of T action in vivo. Collectively these results reveal that activational effects of T alter circadian timekeeping in the adrenal gland, which may have implications for sex differences in stress reactivity and stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Kloehn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
| | - Savin B Pillai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
| | - Laurel Officer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
| | - Claire Klement
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
| | - Paul J Gasser
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
| | - Jennifer A Evans
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
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Huang CCJ, Kraft C, Moy N, Ng L, Forrest D. A Novel Population of Inner Cortical Cells in the Adrenal Gland That Displays Sexually Dimorphic Expression of Thyroid Hormone Receptor-β1. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2338-48. [PMID: 25774556 PMCID: PMC4430604 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The development of the adrenal cortex involves the formation and then subsequent regression of immature or fetal inner cell layers as the mature steroidogenic outer layers expand. However, controls over this remodeling, especially in the immature inner layer, are incompletely understood. Here we identify an inner cortical cell population that expresses thyroid hormone receptor-β1 (TRβ1), one of two receptor isoforms encoded by the Thrb gene. Using mice with a Thrb(b1) reporter allele that expresses lacZ instead of TRβ1, β-galactosidase was detected in the inner cortex from early stages. Expression peaked at juvenile ages in an inner zone that included cells expressing 20-α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, a marker of the transient, so-called X-zone in mice. The β-galactosidase-positive zone displayed sexually dimorphic regression in males after approximately 4 weeks of age but persisted in females into adulthood in either nulliparous or parous states. T3 treatment promoted hypertrophy of inner cortical cells, induced some markers of mature cortical cells, and, in males, delayed the regression of the TRβ1-positive zone, suggesting that TRβ1 could partly divert the differentiation fate and counteract male-specific regression of inner zone cells. TRβ1-deficient mice were resistant to these actions of T3, supporting a functional role for TRβ1 in the inner cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Che Jeff Huang
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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Abstract
The purpose of this article is to review fundamentals in adrenal gland histophysiology. Key findings regarding the important signaling pathways involved in the regulation of steroidogenesis and adrenal growth are summarized. We illustrate how adrenal gland morphology and function are deeply interconnected in which novel signaling pathways (Wnt, Sonic hedgehog, Notch, β-catenin) or ionic channels are required for their integrity. Emphasis is given to exploring the mechanisms and challenges underlying the regulation of proliferation, growth, and functionality. Also addressed is the fact that while it is now well-accepted that steroidogenesis results from an enzymatic shuttle between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, key questions still remain on the various aspects related to cellular uptake and delivery of free cholesterol. The significant progress achieved over the past decade regarding the precise molecular mechanisms by which the two main regulators of adrenal cortex, adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and angiotensin II act on their receptors is reviewed, including structure-activity relationships and their potential applications. Particular attention has been given to crucial second messengers and how various kinases, phosphatases, and cytoskeleton-associated proteins interact to ensure homeostasis and/or meet physiological demands. References to animal studies are also made in an attempt to unravel associated clinical conditions. Many of the aspects addressed in this article still represent a challenge for future studies, their outcome aimed at providing evidence that the adrenal gland, through its steroid hormones, occupies a central position in many situations where homeostasis is disrupted, thus highlighting the relevance of exploring and understanding how this key organ is regulated. © 2014 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 4:889-964, 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gallo-Payet
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, and Centre de Recherche Clinique Étienne-Le Bel of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
The adrenal gland consists of two distinct parts, the cortex and the medulla. Molecular mechanisms controlling differentiation and growth of the adrenal gland have been studied in detail using mouse models. Knowledge also came from investigations of genetic disorders altering adrenal development and/or function. During embryonic development, the adrenal cortex acquires a structural and functional zonation in which the adrenal cortex is divided into three different steroidogenic zones. Significant progress has been made in understanding adrenal zonation. Recent lineage tracing experiments have accumulated evidence for a centripetal differentiation of adrenocortical cells from the subcapsular area to the inner part of the adrenal cortex. Understanding of the mechanism of adrenocortical cancer (ACC) development was stimulated by knowledge of adrenal gland development. ACC is a rare cancer with a very poor overall prognosis. Abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-catenin as well as the IGF2 signaling plays an important role in ACC development. Studies examining rare genetic syndromes responsible for familial ACT have played an important role in identifying genetic alterations in these tumors (like TP53 or CTNNB1 mutations as well as IGF2 overexpression). Recently, genomic analyses of ACT have shown gene expression profiles associated with malignancy as well as chromosomal and methylation alterations in ACT and exome sequencing allowed to describe the mutational landscape of these tumors. This progress leads to a new classification of these tumors, opening new perspectives for the diagnosis and prognostication of ACT. This review summarizes current knowledge of adrenocortical development, growth, and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Lefèvre
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France Department of Endocrinology, Referral Center for Rare Adrenal Diseases, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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Pihlajoki M, Dörner J, Cochran RS, Heikinheimo M, Wilson DB. Adrenocortical zonation, renewal, and remodeling. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:27. [PMID: 25798129 PMCID: PMC4350438 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal cortex is divided into concentric zones. In humans the major cortical zones are the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis. The adrenal cortex is a dynamic organ in which senescent cells are replaced by newly differentiated ones. This constant renewal facilitates organ remodeling in response to physiological demand for steroids. Cortical zones can reversibly expand, contract, or alter their biochemical profiles to accommodate needs. Pools of stem/progenitor cells in the adrenal capsule, subcapsular region, and juxtamedullary region can differentiate to repopulate or expand zones. Some of these pools appear to be activated only during specific developmental windows or in response to extreme physiological demand. Senescent cells can also be replenished through direct lineage conversion; for example, cells in the zona glomerulosa can transform into cells of the zona fasciculata. Adrenocortical cell differentiation, renewal, and function are regulated by a variety of endocrine/paracrine factors including adrenocorticotropin, angiotensin II, insulin-related growth hormones, luteinizing hormone, activin, and inhibin. Additionally, zonation and regeneration of the adrenal cortex are controlled by developmental signaling pathways, such as the sonic hedgehog, delta-like homolog 1, fibroblast growth factor, and WNT/β-catenin pathways. The mechanisms involved in adrenocortical remodeling are complex and redundant so as to fulfill the offsetting goals of organ homeostasis and stress adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjut Pihlajoki
- Helsinki University Central Hospital, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Julia Dörner
- Hochschule Mannheim – University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rebecca S. Cochran
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Markku Heikinheimo
- Helsinki University Central Hospital, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David B. Wilson
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- *Correspondence: David B. Wilson, Washington University School of Medicine, Box 8208, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA e-mail:
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Boucher E, Provost PR, Tremblay Y. Ontogeny of adrenal-like glucocorticoid synthesis pathway and of 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the mouse lung. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:119. [PMID: 24580729 PMCID: PMC3944916 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucocorticoids exert recognized positive effects on lung development. The genes involved in the classical pathway of glucocorticoid synthesis normally occurring in adrenals were found to be expressed on gestation day (GD) 15.5 in the developing mouse lung. Recently, expression of two of these genes was also detected on GD 17.5 suggesting a more complex temporal regulation than previously expected. Here, we deepen the knowledge on expression of "adrenal" glucocorticoid synthesis genes in the mouse lung during the perinatal period and we also study expression of the gene encoding for the steroid inactivating enzyme 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20α-HSD). RESULTS We performed an ontogenic study of P450scc, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-Δ4 isomerase 1 (3β-HSD1), 21-hydroxylase, 11β-hydroxylase, 11β-HSD1, and 11β-HSD2 expression up to post natal day (PN) 15. The substrate (progesterone) and the product (deoxycorticosterone) of 21-hydroxylase are substrates of 20α-HSD, thus 20α-HSD (Akr1c18) gene expression was investigated. In lung samples collected between GD 15.5 and PN 15, 11β-hydroxylase was only detected on GD 15.5. In contrast, all the other tested genes were expressed throughout the analyzed period with different temporal expression patterns. P450scc, 21-hydroxylase, 20α-HSD and 11β-HSD2 mRNA levels increased after birth with different patterns including an increase from PN 3 with a possible sex difference for 21-hydroxylase mRNA. Also, the 21-hydroxylase protein was observed by Western blot in perinatal lungs with higher levels after birth. CONCLUSION Progesterone is present at high levels during gestation and the product of 21-hydroxylase, deoxycorticosterone, can bind the glucocorticoid receptor with an affinity close to that of corticosterone. Detection of 21-hydroxylase at the protein level during antenatal lung development is the first evidence that the adrenal-like glucocorticoid synthesis pathway detected during lung development has the machinery to produce glucocorticoids in the fetal lung. Glucocorticoids from lung 21-hydroxylase appear to modulate lung ontogenesis through paracrine/intracrine actions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yves Tremblay
- Reproduction, mother and youth health, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada.
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Mérian J, Boisgard R, Decleves X, Thezé B, Texier I, Tavitian B. Synthetic lipid nanoparticles targeting steroid organs. J Nucl Med 2013; 54:1996-2003. [PMID: 24071507 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.113.121657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Lipidots are original nanoparticulate lipid delivery vectors for drugs and contrast agents made from materials generally regarded as safe. Here, we characterized the in vivo stability, biodistribution, and pharmacokinetics of lipidots. METHODS Lipidots 55 nm in diameter and coated with a phospholipid/poly(ethyleneglycol) surfactant shell were triply labeled with (3)H-cholesteryl-hexadecyl-ether, cholesteryl-(14)C-oleate, and the 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine infrared fluorescent dye and injected intravenously into immunocompetent Friend virus B-type mice. The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of lipidots were analyzed quantitatively in serial samples of blood and tissue and with in vivo optical imaging and were refined by microscopic examination of selected target tissues. RESULTS The plasmatic half-life of lipidots was approximately 30 min. Radioactive and fluorescent tracers displayed a similar nanoparticle-driven biodistribution, indicative of the lipidots' integrity during the first hours after injection. Lipidots distributed in the liver and, surprisingly, in the steroid-rich organs adrenals and ovaries, but not in the spleen. This tropism was confirmed at the microscopic level by histologic detection of 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine. Nanoparticle loading with cholesterol derivatives increased accumulation in ovaries in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION This previously unreported distribution pattern is specific to lipidots and attributed to their nanometric size and composition, conferring on them a lipoproteinlike behavior. The affinity of lipidots for steroid hormone-rich areas is of interest to address drugs and contrast agents to lipoprotein-receptor-overexpressing cancer cells found in hormone-dependent tumors.
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Freedman BD, Kempna PB, Carlone DL, Shah M, Guagliardo NA, Barrett PQ, Gomez-Sanchez CE, Majzoub JA, Breault DT. Adrenocortical zonation results from lineage conversion of differentiated zona glomerulosa cells. Dev Cell 2013; 26:666-673. [PMID: 24035414 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2013.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Lineage conversion of differentiated cells in response to hormonal feedback has yet to be described. To investigate this, we studied the adrenal cortex, which is composed of functionally distinct concentric layers that develop postnatally, the outer zona glomerulosa (zG) and the inner zona fasciculata (zF). These layers have separate functions, are continuously renewed in response to physiological demands, and are regulated by discrete hormonal feedback loops. Their cellular origin, lineage relationship, and renewal mechanism, however, remain poorly understood. Cell-fate mapping and gene-deletion studies using zG-specific Cre expression demonstrate that differentiated zG cells undergo lineage conversion into zF cells. In addition, zG maintenance is dependent on the master transcriptional regulator Steroidogenic Factor 1 (SF-1), and zG-specific Sf-1 deletion prevents lineage conversion. These findings demonstrate that adrenocortical zonation and regeneration result from lineage conversion and may provide a paradigm for homeostatic cellular renewal in other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany D Freedman
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Petra Bukovac Kempna
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Diana L Carlone
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Manasvi Shah
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Nick A Guagliardo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908 USA
| | - Paula Q Barrett
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908 USA
| | - Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216 USA
| | - Joseph A Majzoub
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - David T Breault
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA
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Pihlajoki M, Gretzinger E, Cochran R, Kyrönlahti A, Schrade A, Hiller T, Sullivan L, Shoykhet M, Schoeller EL, Brooks MD, Heikinheimo M, Wilson DB. Conditional mutagenesis of Gata6 in SF1-positive cells causes gonadal-like differentiation in the adrenal cortex of mice. Endocrinology 2013; 154:1754-67. [PMID: 23471215 PMCID: PMC3628026 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor GATA6 is expressed in the fetal and adult adrenal cortex and has been implicated in steroidogenesis. To characterize the role of transcription factor GATA6 in adrenocortical development and function, we generated mice in which Gata6 was conditionally deleted using Cre-LoxP recombination with Sf1-cre. The adrenal glands of adult Gata6 conditional knockout (cKO) mice were small and had a thin cortex. Cytomegalic changes were evident in fetal and adult cKO adrenal glands, and chromaffin cells were ectopically located at the periphery of the glands. Corticosterone secretion in response to exogenous ACTH was blunted in cKO mice. Spindle-shaped cells expressing Gata4, a marker of gonadal stroma, accumulated in the adrenal subcapsule of Gata6 cKO mice. RNA analysis demonstrated the concomitant upregulation of other gonadal-like markers, including Amhr2, in the cKO adrenal glands, suggesting that GATA6 inhibits the spontaneous differentiation of adrenocortical stem/progenitor cells into gonadal-like cells. Lhcgr and Cyp17 were overexpressed in the adrenal glands of gonadectomized cKO vs control mice, implying that GATA6 also limits sex steroidogenic cell differentiation in response to the hormonal changes that accompany gonadectomy. Nulliparous female and orchiectomized male Gata6 cKO mice lacked an adrenal X-zone. Microarray hybridization identified Pik3c2g as a novel X-zone marker that is downregulated in the adrenal glands of these mice. Our findings offer genetic proof that GATA6 regulates the differentiation of steroidogenic progenitors into adrenocortical cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjut Pihlajoki
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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Everds NE, Snyder PW, Bailey KL, Bolon B, Creasy DM, Foley GL, Rosol TJ, Sellers T. Interpreting Stress Responses during Routine Toxicity Studies. Toxicol Pathol 2013; 41:560-614. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623312466452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Stress often occurs during toxicity studies. The perception of sensory stimuli as stressful primarily results in catecholamine release and activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis to increase serum glucocorticoid concentrations. Downstream effects of these neuroendocrine signals may include decreased total body weights or body weight gain; food consumption and activity; altered organ weights (e.g., thymus, spleen, adrenal); lymphocyte depletion in thymus and spleen; altered circulating leukocyte counts (e.g., increased neutrophils with decreased lymphocytes and eosinophils); and altered reproductive functions. Typically, only some of these findings occur in a given study. Stress responses should be interpreted as secondary (indirect) rather than primary (direct) test article–related findings. Determining whether effects are the result of stress requires a weight-of-evidence approach. The evaluation and interpretation of routinely collected data (standard in-life, clinical pathology, and anatomic pathology endpoints) are appropriate and generally sufficient to assess whether or not changes are secondary to stress. The impact of possible stress-induced effects on data interpretation can partially be mitigated by toxicity study designs that use appropriate control groups (e.g., cohorts treated with vehicle and subjected to the same procedures as those dosed with test article), housing that minimizes isolation and offers environmental enrichment, and experimental procedures that minimize stress and sampling and analytical bias. This article is a comprehensive overview of the biological aspects of the stress response, beginning with a Summary (Section 1) and an Introduction (Section 2) that describes the historical and conventional methods used to characterize acute and chronic stress responses. These sections are followed by reviews of the primary systems and parameters that regulate and/or are influenced by stress, with an emphasis on parameters evaluated in toxicity studies: In-life Procedures (Section 3), Nervous System (Section 4), Endocrine System (Section 5), Reproductive System (Section 6), Clinical Pathology (Section 7), and Immune System (Section 8). The paper concludes (Section 9) with a brief discussion on Minimizing Stress-Related Effects (9.1.), and a final section explaining why Parameters routinely measured are appropriate for assessing the role of stress in toxicology studies (9.2.).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Keith L. Bailey
- Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Brad Bolon
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and the Comparative Pathology and Mouse Phenotyping Shared Resource, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | | | - Thomas J. Rosol
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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