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Zhang W, Peng J, Yang S, Huang Y, Tong D. Expressions of ghrelin and GHSR-1a in the corpus luteum and the stimulatory effect of ghrelin on luteal function of pregnant sows. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106763. [PMID: 36166950 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106763] [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: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that ghrelin played direct actions in ovarian function, but the direct role of ghrelin in corpus luteum (CL) of pregnant sows has remained obscure. The study aimed to examine the expressions of ghrelin and its functional receptor (GHSR-1a) in the CL of sows during pregnancy, and evaluate the role of ghrelin in CL function of pregnant sows. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that ghrelin and GHSR-1a are both predominantly localized in the luteal cells of pregnant sows CL. Strong immunoreactivity for ghrelin and GHSR-1a is detected at days 20 (early) and 50 (middle), but weak immunoreactivity is observed at days 90 (late) post mating. Similarly, there is a significant effect of pregnant phase on the expression (mRNA and protein) of ghrelin and GHSR-1a in the CL, with higher levels at days 20 (early) and 50 (middle), and lower values at 90 (late) post mating. In vitro, treatments of luteal cells with ghrelin (from 0.01 to 10 ng/mL) are promoted cell viability and P4 secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Ghrelin is also accelerated the LH-induced P4 secretion in luteal cells. Moreover, ghrelin is induced the release and mRNA expression of LH, and increased the release of prostaglandin (PG)E2, but reduced the secretion of PGF2α in luteal cells. In conclusion, the presences of ghrelin and GHSR-1a in the porcine CL during pregnancy, and the stimulatory effect of ghrelin on luteal cells suggest positive regulation by ghrelin in CL function of pregnant sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P.R. China
| | - Jiang Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P.R. China
| | - Sitian Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P.R. China
| | - Yupei Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P.R. China
| | - Dewen Tong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P.R. China.
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The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059
expr 982648605 + 846360072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
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3
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The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11059. [PMID: 34681721 PMCID: PMC8539660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059&set/a 934136356+984013925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
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4
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Schalla MA, Stengel A. The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011059. [PMID: 34681721 PMCID: PMC8539660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha A. Schalla
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Gifford RM, O'Leary TJ, Wardle SL, Double RL, Homer NZM, Howie AF, Greeves JP, Anderson RA, Woods DR, Reynolds RM. Reproductive and metabolic adaptation to multistressor training in women. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2021; 321:E281-E291. [PMID: 34191631 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00019.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis suppression in exercising women can be caused by low energy availability (EA), but the impact of a real-world, multistressor training environment on reproductive and metabolic function is unknown. This study aimed to characterize reproductive and metabolic adaptation in women undertaking basic military training. A prospective cohort study in women undertaking 11-month initial military training (n = 47) was carried out. Dynamic low-dose 1-h gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) tests were completed after 0 and 7 mo of training. Urine progesterone was sampled weekly throughout. Body composition (dual X-ray absorptiometry), fasting insulin resistance (homeostatic modeling assessment 2, HOMA2), leptin, sex steroids, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and inhibin B were measured after 0, 7, and 11 mo with an additional assessment of body composition at 3 mo. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) responses were suppressed after 7 mo (both P < 0.001). Among noncontraceptive users (n = 20), 65% had regular (23-35 days) cycles preenrollment, falling to 24% by 7 mo of training. Of women in whom urine progesterone was measured (n = 24), 87% of cycles showed no evidence of ovulation. There was little change in AMH, LH, and estradiol, although inhibin B and FSH increased (P < 0.05). Fat mass fluctuated during training but at month 11 was unchanged from baseline. Fat-free mass did not change. Visceral adiposity, HOMA2, and leptin increased (all P < 0.001). HPG axis suppression with anovulation occurred in response to training without evidence of low EA. Increased insulin resistance may have contributed to the observed pituitary and ovarian dysfunction. Our findings are likely to represent an adaptive response of reproductive function to the multistressor nature of military training.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We characterized reproductive endocrine adaptation to prolonged arduous multistressor training in women. We identified marked suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis function during training but found no evidence of low energy availability despite high energy requirements. Our findings suggest a complex interplay of psychological and environmental stressors with suppression of the HPG axis via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis. The neuroendocrine impact of nonexercise stressors on the HPG axis during arduous training should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Gifford
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Research & Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas J O'Leary
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie L Wardle
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Double
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Z M Homer
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Edinburgh Clinical Research Facility, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - A Forbes Howie
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Julie P Greeves
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, United Kingdom
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - David R Woods
- Research & Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Northumbria and Newcastle NHS Trusts, Wansbeck General and Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca M Reynolds
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Sun J, Shen X, Liu H, Lu S, Peng J, Kuang H. Caloric restriction in female reproduction: is it beneficial or detrimental? Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:1. [PMID: 33397418 PMCID: PMC7780671 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00681-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Caloric restriction (CR), an energy-restricted intervention with undernutrition instead of malnutrition, is widely known to prolong lifespan and protect against the age-related deteriorations. Recently it is found that CR significantly affects female reproduction via hypothalamic (corticotropin releasing hormone, neuropeptide Y, agouti-related peptide) and peripheral (leptin, ghrelin, insulin, insulin-like growth factor) mediators, which can regulate the energy homeostasis. Although CR reduces the fertility in female mammals, it exerts positive effects like preserving reproductive capacity. In this review, we aim to discuss the comprehensive effects of CR on the central hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis and peripheral ovary and uterus. In addition, we emphasize the influence of CR during pregnancy and highlight the relationship between CR and reproductive-associated diseases. Fully understanding and analyzing the effects of CR on the female reproduction could provide better strategies for the management and prevention of female reproductive dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Sun
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
- Department of Clinical medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xin Shen
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Siying Lu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Gynecology, Nanchang HongDu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 264 MinDe Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006 People’s Republic of China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Medical Experimental Teaching Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Abstract
Patients and clinicians alike want to know if stress causes infertility. Stress could impair with reproductive function by a variety of mechanisms, including compromise of ovarian function, spermatogenesis, fertilization, endometrial development, implantation, and placentation. Herein we focus on the pathogenesis and treatment of stress-induced anovulation, which is often termed functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), with the objective of summarizing the actual knowledge as a clinical guide. FHA is a reversible form of anovulation due to slowing of gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse frequency that results in insufficient pituitary secretion of gonadotropins to support full folliculogenesis. Importantly, FHA heralds a constellation of neuroendocrine alterations with health concomitants. The activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is increased in women with FHA and this observation supports the notion that stress is the cause. The extent of reproductive suppression relates to individual endocrinological and physiological sensitivity to stressors, both metabolic and psychogenic, and chronicity.
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Chouzouris TM, Dovolou E, Rekkas CA, Georgoulias P, Athanasiou LV, Amiridis GS. A study on ghrelin and LH secretion after short fasting and on ghrelin levels at perioestrual period in dairy cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:91-99. [PMID: 30171634 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In two experiments, we studied (a) the changes of LH secretion in heifers under different feeding schedules and (b) total ghrelin concentration at oestrus in cows and heifers. In experiment one, synchronized heifers were allocated in three groups (R, regularly fed controls; F, fasted; and F-F fasted-fed). One day after the completion of the oestrous induction protocol, group F and F-F animals stayed without feed for 24 hr; thereafter, feed was provided to R and F-F cattle; 2 hr later, GnRH was administered to all animals. Blood samples were collected for ghrelin, progesterone, LH and cortisol concentrations. Fasting caused increased ghrelin concentrations in groups F and F-F, while in response to GnRH, LH surge was significantly attenuated in groups F and F-F compared to R. In experiment 2, lactating cows and heifers were used. On day 9 of a synchronized cycle, PGF2α was administered, and blood samples were collected twice daily until the third day after oestrus and analysed for progesterone, estradiol, ghrelin, glucose and BHBA concentrations. No difference was recorded between groups in steroids and BHBA concentrations. In comparison to mid-luteal values, ghrelin concentrations significantly increased at perioestrual period in cows, but not in heifers. This study provides evidence that starving-induced elevated ghrelin concentrations can have suppressing effect on LH secretion, even after ghrelin's restoration to basal values and that during oestrus, ghrelin secretion is differently regulated in cows and heifers, likely being independent from oestradiol concentrations. Further research is required to identify the determining factors that drive the different regulation of ghrelin secretion in cows and heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Markos Chouzouris
- Department of Obstetrics and Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Eleni Dovolou
- Department of Obstetrics and Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Lambrini V Athanasiou
- Department of Medicine, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Georgios S Amiridis
- Department of Obstetrics and Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
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9
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Avendaño MS, Vazquez MJ, Tena-Sempere M. Disentangling puberty: novel neuroendocrine pathways and mechanisms for the control of mammalian puberty. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 23:737-763. [PMID: 28961976 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Puberty is a complex developmental event, controlled by sophisticated regulatory networks that integrate peripheral and internal cues and impinge at the brain centers driving the reproductive axis. The tempo of puberty is genetically determined but is also sensitive to numerous modifiers, from metabolic and sex steroid signals to environmental factors. Recent epidemiological evidence suggests that the onset of puberty is advancing in humans, through as yet unknown mechanisms. In fact, while much knowledge has been gleaned recently on the mechanisms responsible for the control of mammalian puberty, fundamental questions regarding the intimate molecular and neuroendocrine pathways responsible for the precise timing of puberty and its deviations remain unsolved. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE By combining data from suitable model species and humans, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the neuroendocrine mechanisms governing puberty, with particular focus on its central regulatory pathways, underlying molecular basis and mechanisms for metabolic control. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive MEDLINE search of articles published mostly from 2003 to 2017 has been carried out. Data from cellular and animal models (including our own results) as well as clinical studies focusing on the pathophysiology of puberty in mammals were considered and cross-referenced with terms related with central neuroendocrine mechanisms, metabolic control and epigenetic/miRNA regulation. OUTCOMES Studies conducted during the last decade have revealed the essential role of novel central neuroendocrine pathways in the control of puberty, with a prominent role of kisspeptins in the precise regulation of the pubertal activation of GnRH neurosecretory activity. In addition, different transmitters, including neurokinin-B (NKB) and, possibly, melanocortins, have been shown to interplay with kisspeptins in tuning puberty onset. Alike, recent studies have documented the role of epigenetic mechanisms, involving mainly modulation of repressors that target kisspeptins and NKB pathways, as well as microRNAs and the related binding protein, Lin28B, in the central control of puberty. These novel pathways provide the molecular and neuroendocrine basis for the modulation of puberty by different endogenous and environmental cues, including nutritional and metabolic factors, such as leptin, ghrelin and insulin, which are known to play an important role in pubertal timing. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite recent advancements, our understanding of the basis of mammalian puberty remains incomplete. Complete elucidation of the novel neuropeptidergic and molecular mechanisms summarized in this review will not only expand our knowledge of the intimate mechanisms responsible for puberty onset in humans, but might also provide new tools and targets for better prevention and management of pubertal deviations in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Avendaño
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - M J Vazquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - M Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,FiDiPro Program, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
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10
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Abbott DH, Vepraskas SH, Horton TH, Terasawa E, Levine JE. Accelerated Episodic Luteinizing Hormone Release Accompanies Blunted Progesterone Regulation in PCOS-like Female Rhesus Monkeys (Macaca Mulatta) Exposed to Testosterone during Early-to-Mid Gestation. Neuroendocrinology 2018; 107:133-146. [PMID: 29949806 PMCID: PMC7363207 DOI: 10.1159/000490570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Ovarian theca cell hyperandrogenism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is compounded by androgen receptor-mediated impairment of estradiol and progesterone negative feedback regulation of episodic luteinizing hormone (LH) release. The resultant LH hypersecretion, likely the product of accelerated episodic release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the median eminence of the hypothalamus, hyperstimulates ovarian theca cell steroidogenesis, enabling testosterone (T) and androstenedione excess. Prenatally androgenized (PA) female monkeys exposed to fetal male levels of T during early-to-mid gestation, when adult, demonstrate PCOS-like traits, including high T and LH levels. This study tests the hypothesis that progesterone resistance-associated acceleration in episodic LH release contributes to PA monkey LH excess. METHODS A total of 4 PA and 3 regularly cycling, healthy control adult female rhesus monkeys of comparable age and body mass index underwent (1) a 10 h, frequent intravenous sampling assessment for LH episodic release, immediately followed by (2) IV infusion of exogenous GnRH to quantify continuing pituitary LH responsiveness, and subsequently (3) an SC injection of a progesterone receptor antagonist, mifepristone, to examine LH responses to blockade of progesterone-mediated action. RESULTS Compared to controls, the relatively hyperandrogenic PA females exhibited ~100% increase (p = 0.037) in LH pulse frequency, positive correlation of LH pulse amplitude (p = 0.017) with androstenedione, ~100% greater increase (p = 0.034) in acute (0-10 min) LH responses to exogenous GnRH, and an absence (p = 0.008) of modest LH elevation following acute progesterone receptor blockade suggestive of diminished progesterone negative feedback. CONCLUSION Such dysregulation of LH release in PCOS-like monkeys implicates impaired feedback control of episodic release of hypothalamic GnRH reminiscent of PCOS neuroendocrinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sarah H Vepraskas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Teresa H Horton
- Department of Neurobiology and Physiology, Institute for Neuroscience, Center for Reproductive Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Ei Terasawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jon E Levine
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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11
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Sominsky L, Hodgson DM, McLaughlin EA, Smith R, Wall HM, Spencer SJ. Linking Stress and Infertility: A Novel Role for Ghrelin. Endocr Rev 2017; 38:432-467. [PMID: 28938425 DOI: 10.1210/er.2016-1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Infertility affects a remarkable one in four couples in developing countries. Psychological stress is a ubiquitous facet of life, and although stress affects us all at some point, prolonged or unmanageable stress may become harmful for some individuals, negatively impacting on their health, including fertility. For instance, women who struggle to conceive are twice as likely to suffer from emotional distress than fertile women. Assisted reproductive technology treatments place an additional physical, emotional, and financial burden of stress, particularly on women, who are often exposed to invasive techniques associated with treatment. Stress-reduction interventions can reduce negative affect and in some cases to improve in vitro fertilization outcomes. Although it has been well-established that stress negatively affects fertility in animal models, human research remains inconsistent due to individual differences and methodological flaws. Attempts to isolate single causal links between stress and infertility have not yet been successful due to their multifaceted etiologies. In this review, we will discuss the current literature in the field of stress-induced reproductive dysfunction based on animal and human models, and introduce a recently unexplored link between stress and infertility, the gut-derived hormone, ghrelin. We also present evidence from recent seminal studies demonstrating that ghrelin has a principal role in the stress response and reward processing, as well as in regulating reproductive function, and that these roles are tightly interlinked. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that stress may negatively impact upon fertility at least in part by stimulating a dysregulation in ghrelin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luba Sominsky
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Deborah M Hodgson
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science and IT, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.,School of Environmental & Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and IT, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Hannah M Wall
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
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12
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Gifford RM, Reynolds RM, Greeves J, Anderson RA, Woods DR. Reproductive dysfunction and associated pathology in women undergoing military training. J ROY ARMY MED CORPS 2017; 163:301-310. [DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2016-000727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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13
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Hatef A, Unniappan S. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, kisspeptin, and gonadal steroids directly modulate nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 in murine hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons and gonadotropes†. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:635-651. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.146621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
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Yeh C, Ting CH, Doong ML, Chi CW, Lee SD, Chen CY. Intracerebroventricular urocortin 3 counteracts central acyl ghrelin-induced hyperphagic and gastroprokinetic effects via CRF receptor 2 in rats. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2016; 10:3281-3290. [PMID: 27757017 PMCID: PMC5055120 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s113195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Urocortin 3 is a key neuromodulator in the regulation of stress, anxiety, food intake, gut motility, and energy homeostasis, while ghrelin elicits feeding behavior and enhances gastric emptying, adiposity, and positive energy balance. However, the interplays between urocortin 3 and ghrelin on food intake and gastric emptying remain uninvestigated. Methods We examined the differential effects of central O-n-octanoylated ghrelin, des-Gln14-ghrelin, and urocortin 3 on food intake, as well as on charcoal nonnutrient semiliquid gastric emptying in conscious rats that were chronically implanted with intracerebroventricular (ICV) catheters. The functional importance of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor 2 in urocortin 3-induced responses was examined by ICV injection of the selective CRF receptor 2 antagonist, astressin2-B. Results ICV infusion of urocortin 3 opposed central acyl ghrelin-elicited hyperphagia via CRF receptor 2 in satiated rats. ICV injection of O-n-octanoylated ghrelin and des-Gln14-ghrelin were equally potent in accelerating gastric emptying in fasted rats, whereas ICV administration of urocortin 3 delayed gastric emptying. In addition, ICV infusion of urocortin 3 counteracted central acyl ghrelin-induced gastroprokinetic effects via CRF receptor 2 pathway. Conclusion ICV-infused urocortin 3 counteracts central acyl ghrelin-induced hyperphagic and gastroprokinetic effects via CRF receptor 2 in rats. Our results clearly showed that enhancing ghrelin and blocking CRF receptor 2 signaling in the brain accelerated gastric emptying, which provided important clues for a new therapeutic avenue in ameliorating anorexia and gastric ileus found in various chronic wasting disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Yeh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital
| | | | | | - Chin-Wen Chi
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine; Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Shou-Dong Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital
| | - Chih-Yen Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei; Taiwan Association for the Study of Small Intestinal Diseases, Guishan, Taiwan
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Ghrelin suppresses the GnRH-induced preovulatory gonadotropin surge in dairy heifers. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1615-1621. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Castellano JM, Tena-Sempere M. Metabolic control of female puberty: potential therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2016; 20:1181-93. [PMID: 27409160 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2016.1212015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The onset of puberty in females is highly sensitive to the nutritional status and the amount of energy reserves of the organism. This metabolic information is sensed and transmitted to hypothalamic GnRH neurons, considered to be ultimately responsible for triggering puberty through the coordinated action of different peripheral hormones, central neurotransmitters, and molecular mediators. AREAS COVERED This article will review and discuss (i) the relevant actions of the adipose hormone leptin, as a stimulatory/permissive signal, and the gut hormone ghrelin, as an inhibitory factor, in the metabolic control of female puberty; (ii) the crucial role of the hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons, recently emerged as essential gatekeepers of puberty, in transmitting this metabolic information to GnRH neurons; and (iii) the potential involvement of key cellular energy sensors, such as mTOR, as molecular mediators in this setting. EXPERT OPINION The thorough characterization of the physiological roles of the above elements in the metabolic control of female puberty, along with the discovery of novel factors, pathways, and mechanisms involved, will promote our understanding of the complex networks connecting metabolism and puberty and, ultimately, will aid in the design of target-specific treatments for female pubertal disorders linked to conditions of metabolic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Castellano
- a Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain.,b CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición , Instituto de Salud Carlos III , Córdoba , Spain.,c Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- a Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain.,b CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición , Instituto de Salud Carlos III , Córdoba , Spain.,c Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia , Córdoba , Spain.,d FiDiPro Program, Department of Physiology , University of Turku , Turku , Finland
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Erchegyi J, Wang L, Gulyas J, Samant M, Perrin MH, Lewis K, Miller C, Vaughan J, Donaldson C, Fischer W, Low W, Yakabi S, Karasawa H, Taché Y, Rivier C, Rivier J. Characterization of Multisubstituted Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) Peptide Antagonists (Astressins). J Med Chem 2016; 59:854-66. [PMID: 26789203 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b00926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
CRF mediates numerous stress-related endocrine, autonomic, metabolic, and behavioral responses. We present the synthesis and chemical and biological properties of astressin B analogues {cyclo(30-33)[D-Phe(12),Nle(21,38),C(α)MeLeu(27,40),Glu(30),Lys(33)]-acetyl-h/r-CRF(9-41)}. Out of 37 novel peptides, 17 (2, 4, 6-8, 10, 11, 16, 17, 27, 29, 30, 32-36) and 16 (3, 5, 9, 12-15, 18, 19, 22-26, 28, 31) had k(i) to CRF receptors in the high picomolar and low nanomole ranges, respectively. Peptides 1, 2, and 11 inhibited h/rCRF and urocortin 1-induced cAMP release from AtT20 and A7r5 cells. When Astressin C 2 was administered to adrenalectomized rats at 1.0 mg subcutaneously, it inhibited ACTH release for >7 d. Additional rat data based on the inhibitory effect of (2) on h/rCRF-induced stimulation of colonic secretory motor activity and urocortin 2-induced delayed gastric emptying also indicate a safe and long-lasting antagonistic effect. The overall properties of selected analogues may fulfill the criteria expected from clinical candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Erchegyi
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Lixin Wang
- Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Center, Digestive Diseases Division, University of California at Los Angeles, and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California 90073, United States
| | - Jozsef Gulyas
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Manoj Samant
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Marilyn H Perrin
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Kathy Lewis
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Charleen Miller
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Joan Vaughan
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Cynthia Donaldson
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Wolfgang Fischer
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - William Low
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Seiichi Yakabi
- Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Center, Digestive Diseases Division, University of California at Los Angeles, and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California 90073, United States
| | - Hiroshi Karasawa
- Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Center, Digestive Diseases Division, University of California at Los Angeles, and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California 90073, United States
| | - Yvette Taché
- Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Center, Digestive Diseases Division, University of California at Los Angeles, and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California 90073, United States
| | - Catherine Rivier
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Jean Rivier
- The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies , 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
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Wang P, Liu C, Liu L, Zhang X, Ren B, Li B. The Antidepressant-like Effects of Estrogen-mediated Ghrelin. Curr Neuropharmacol 2015; 13:524-35. [PMID: 26412072 PMCID: PMC4790402 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x1304150831120650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin, one of the brain-gut peptides, stimulates food-intake. Recently, ghrelin has also shown to play an important role in depression treatment. However, the mechanism of ghrelin's antidepressant-like actions is unknown. On the other hand, sex differences in depression, and the fluctuation of estrogens secretion have been proved to play a key role in depression. It has been reported that women have higher level of ghrelin expression, and ghrelin can stimulate estrogen secretion while estrogen acts as a positive feedback mechanism to up-regulate ghrelin level. Ghrelin may be a potential regulator of reproductive function, and estrogen may have additional effect in ghrelin's antidepressantlike actions. In this review, we summarize antidepressant-like effects of ghrelin and estrogen in basic and clinical studies, and provide new insight on ghrelin's effect in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Wang
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Changhong Liu
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Lei Liu
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Xingyi Zhang
- Jilin provincial key
laboratory on molecular and chemical genetic, Second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun
130024, China
| | - Bingzhong Ren
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Bingjin Li
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
- Jilin provincial key
laboratory on molecular and chemical genetic, Second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun
130024, China
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Roa J, Tena-Sempere M. Connecting metabolism and reproduction: roles of central energy sensors and key molecular mediators. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 397:4-14. [PMID: 25289807 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
It is well established that pubertal activation of the reproductive axis and maintenance of fertility are critically dependent on the magnitude of body energy reserves and the metabolic state of the organism. Hence, conditions of impaired energy homeostasis often result in deregulation of puberty and reproduction, whereas gonadal dysfunction can be associated with the worsening of the metabolic profile and, eventually, changes in body weight. While much progress has taken place in our knowledge about the neuroendocrine mechanisms linking metabolism and reproduction, our understanding of how such dynamic interplay happens is still incomplete. As paradigmatic example, much has been learned in the last two decades on the reproductive roles of key metabolic hormones (such as leptin, insulin and ghrelin), their brain targets and the major transmitters and neuropeptides involved. Yet, the molecular mechanisms whereby metabolic information is translated and engages into the reproductive circuits remain largely unsolved. In this work, we will summarize recent developments in the characterization of the putative central roles of key cellular energy sensors, such as mTOR, in this phenomenon, and will relate these with other molecular mechanisms likely contributing to the brain coupling of energy balance and fertility. In doing so, we aim to provide an updated view of an area that, despite still underdeveloped, may be critically important to fully understand how reproduction and metabolism are tightly connected in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Roa
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Córdoba, Spain; Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Córdoba, Spain; Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.
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20
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Alhashem F, Alkhateeb M, Sakr H, Alshahrani M, Alsunaidi M, Elrefaey H, Alessa R, Sarhan M, Eleawa SM, Khalil MA. Exercise protects against obesity induced semen abnormalities via downregulating stem cell factor, upregulating Ghrelin and normalizing oxidative stress. EXCLI JOURNAL 2014; 13:551-72. [PMID: 26417283 PMCID: PMC4464503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Increased oxidative stress and hormonal imbalance have been hypothesized to underlie infertility in obese animals. However, recent evidence suggests that Ghrelin and Stem Cell Factor (SCF) play an important role in fertility, in lean individuals. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating whether changes in the levels of Ghrelin and SCF in rat testes underlie semen abnormal parameters observed in obese rats, and secondly, whether endurance exercise or Orlistat can protect against changes in Ghrelin, SCF, and/or semen parameters in diet induced obese rats. Obesity was modelled in male Wistar rats using High Fat Diet (HFD) 12-week protocol. Eight week-old rats (n=40) were divided into four groups, namely, Group I: fed with a standard diet (12 % of calories as fat); Group II: fed HFD (40 % of calories as fat); Group III: fed the HFD with a concomitant dose of Orlistat (200 mg/kg); and Group IV: fed the HFD and underwent 30 min daily swimming exercise. The model was validated by measuring the levels of testosterone, FSH, LH, estradiol, leptin, triglycerides, total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol, and final change in body weight. Levels were consistent with published obesity models (see Results). As predicted, the HFD group had a 76.8 % decrease in sperm count, 44.72 % decrease in sperm motility, as well as 47.09 % increase in abnormal sperm morphology. Unlike the control group, in the HFD group (i.e. obese rats) Ghrelin mRNA and protein were elevated, while SCF mRNA and protein were diminished in the testes. Furthermore, in the HFD group, SOD and GPx activities were significantly reduced, 48.5±5.8 % (P=0.0012) and 45.6±4.6 % (P=0.0019), respectively, while TBARS levels were significantly increased (112.7±8.9 %, P=0.0001). Finally, endurance exercise training and Orlistat administration individually and differentially protected semen parameters in obese rats. The mechanism includes, but is not limited to, normalizing the levels of Ghrelin, SCF, SOD, GPx and TBARS. In rat testes, diet induced obesity down regulates SCF expression, upregulates Ghrelin expression, and deteriorate oxidative stress levels, which are collectively detrimental to semen parameters. Exercise, and to a lesser extent Orlistat administration, protected effectively against this detrimental effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahaid Alhashem
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Alkhateeb
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussein Sakr
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mesfer Alshahrani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Alsunaidi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham Elrefaey
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Riyad Alessa
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Sarhan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Samy M Eleawa
- Department of Applied Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, PAAET, Kuwait
| | - Mohammad A. Khalil
- Division of Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Rivier JE, Rivier CL. Corticotropin-releasing factor peptide antagonists: design, characterization and potential clinical relevance. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:161-70. [PMID: 24269930 PMCID: PMC3965584 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Elusive for more than half a century, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) was finally isolated and characterized in 1981 from ovine hypothalami and shortly thereafter, from rat brains. Thirty years later, much has been learned about the function and localization of CRF and related family members (Urocortins 1, 2 and 3) and their 2 receptors, CRF receptor type 1 (CRFR1) and CRF receptor type 2 (CRFR2). Here, we report the stepwise development of peptide CRF agonists and antagonists, which led to the CRFR1 agonist Stressin1; the long-acting antagonists Astressin2-B which is specific for CRFR2; and Astressin B, which binds to both CRFR1 and CRFR2.This analog has potential for the treatment of CRF-dependent diseases in the periphery, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean E Rivier
- The Salk Institute, The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Catherine L Rivier
- The Salk Institute, The Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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22
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Huang HJ, Chen CYC. A possible solution for hair loss by inhibiting corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor from traditional Chinese medicine. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2013; 32:1613-23. [PMID: 23998289 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2013.831377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor (CRFR) play important roles in stress response, including anxiety and depression syndrome. The CRF expression also relates to chronic stress-related hair loss. This study utilizes the world's largest traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate novel CRFR inhibitors for treatment of alopecia. The docking and screening from TCM database results indicate the vitamin B2, 3 beta-isodihydrocadambine, and caribine display higher binding affinity than maltose in maltose binding protein (MBP). However, the results of MD simulation shows the caribine-facilitated CRFR approach closer to MBP, the 3D structure conformation of MBP and CRFR complex forms compact structure. Interestingly, the distance between the two proteins is reducing significantly after caribine dock into MBP binding site. Beside, from Ligand channel analysis, the paths of caribine demonstrate that residence time is increased in binding pocket. Hence, our finding suggests that caribine might be a potential lead compound to stimulate MBP and CRFR interaction, and help for baldless therapy in further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Jin Huang
- a Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources , College of Pharmacy, China Medical University , Taichung , 40402 , Taiwan
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23
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Michopoulos V, Embree M, Reding K, Sanchez MM, Toufexis D, Votaw JR, Voll RJ, Goodman MM, Rivier J, Wilson ME, Berga SL. CRH receptor antagonism reverses the effect of social subordination upon central GABAA receptor binding in estradiol-treated ovariectomized female rhesus monkeys. Neuroscience 2013; 250:300-8. [PMID: 23856065 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Persistent exposure to environmental stressors causes dysregulation of the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (LHPA) axis and alters GABAA receptor (GABAAR) levels throughout the brain. Social subordination in socially housed female rhesus results in distinctive stress-related physiological and behavioral phenotypes that are dependent on the ovarian hormone estradiol (E2). In the present study, we utilized ovariectomized adult female rhesus monkeys undergoing hormone replacement with E2 to test the hypothesis that the chronic psychosocial stress of subordination alters GABAAR binding potential (GABAAR BPND) in limbic regions implicated in emotional processing including the prefrontal cortex, temporal lobe (amygdala and hippocampus), and hypothalamus. Furthermore, we tested the hypothesis that peripheral administration of a corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptor antagonist (astressin B) would reverse the alterations in GABAAR binding within these regions in subordinate females. After subjects received astressin B or saline for three consecutive days, GABAAR BPND was determined by positron emission tomography (PET) using (18)F-flumazenil as a radioligand. T1-weighted structural magnetic resonance imaging scans were also acquired for PET scan co-registration, in order to perform a region of interest analysis using the pons as a reference region. Compared to socially dominant females, subordinate females exhibited increased GABAAR BPND in the prefrontal cortex but not in the temporal lobe or the hypothalamus. Administration of astressin B eliminated the status difference in GABAAR BPND in the prefrontal cortex, suggesting that the chronic stressor of social subordination modulates GABAergic tone via effects on CRH and the LHPA axis, at least in prefrontal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Michopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Division of Developmental & Cognitive Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Human ghrelin decreases pituitary response to GnRH in superovulated ewes. Theriogenology 2013; 80:262-8. [PMID: 23664792 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Revised: 04/07/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In addition to its metabolic role, ghrelin has been found to suppress luteinizing hormone secretion in many species acting mainly at the hypothalamic level. The objectives of the present study were to test the hypothesis that besides its effects on the hypothalamic level, ghrelin exerts a direct action on the pituitary. Twelve cycling ewes were synchronized, using progestagen intravaginal sponges and superovulated using eCG. At the time of sponge withdrawal, animals were allocated into two groups, ghrelin-treated (Gh) and control. Two days after the sponge removal, GnRH was given to synchronize ovulations. Simultaneously with GnRH treatment, animals of the Gh group received the first of four treatments of acylated human ghrelin at a dose of 6 μg/kg body weight iv; three additional treatments of ghrelin iv were given every 15 minutes thereafter. Control animals received saline iv. Blood samples were collected before challenge (-30 and 0 minutes) and at 30, 60, 75, 90, 105, 120, 135, 150, and 180 minutes after GnRH treatment, and were analyzed for LH, FSH, estradiol, progesterone, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations. Ghrelin treatment attenuated GnRH-induced a preovulatory surge of both gonadotrophins, with the effect being greater for LH. No difference was detected for insulin, estradiol, and progesterone concentrations, and insulin-like growth factor-I levels were increased in the Gh group. Our results imply that in sheep, ghrelin conducts specific regulatory effects on the GnRH/LH axis, and provide for the first time strong evidence that besides its central action, ghrelin might regulate gonadotrophin release acting at the pituitary level.
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Scheid JL, De Souza MJ, Hill BR, Leidy HJ, Williams NI. Decreased luteinizing hormone pulse frequency is associated with elevated 24-hour ghrelin after calorie restriction and exercise in premenopausal women. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2013; 304:E109-16. [PMID: 23115078 PMCID: PMC3543535 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00360.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Elevated ghrelin has been shown to be associated with reduced luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatility in Rhesus monkeys, rats, men, and recently women. We previously reported that 24-h ghrelin concentrations are elevated in women following a 3-mo exercise and diet program leading to weight loss. We investigated whether the elevations in ghrelin following an ~3-mo exercise and diet program leading to weight loss are associated with a decrease in LH pulsatility. The nonexercising control group (Control, n = 5) consumed a controlled diet that matched energy needs, whereas energy intake in the exercise group (Energy Deficit, n = 16) was reduced from baseline energy requirements and supervised exercise training occurred five times per a week. Significant decreases in body weight (-3.0 ± 0.6 kg), body fat (-2.9 ± 0.4 kg) and 24-h LH pulse frequency (-0.18 ± 0.08 pulses/h), and a significant increase in 24-h mean ghrelin were observed in only the Energy Deficit group. The pre-post change in LH pulse frequency was negatively correlated with the change in mean 24-h ghrelin (R = -0.485, P = 0.030) and the change in peak ghrelin at lunch (R = -0.518, P = 0.019). Interestingly, pre-post change in night LH pulse frequency was negatively correlated with the change in mean day ghrelin (R = -0.704, P = 0.001). Elevated total ghrelin concentrations are associated with the suppression of LH pulsatility in premenopausal women and may play a role in the suppression of reproductive function following weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Scheid
- Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, Noll Laboratory, Dept. of Kinesiology, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Intracerebroventricular O-n-octanoylated ghrelin and its splice variant-induced feeding is blocked by insulin, independent of obestatin or CRF receptor, in satiated rats. Nutrition 2012; 28:812-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2011.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2011] [Revised: 11/17/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Evans JJ, Anderson GM. Balancing ovulation and anovulation: integration of the reproductive and energy balance axes by neuropeptides. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:313-32. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Muccioli G, Lorenzi T, Lorenzi M, Ghè C, Arnoletti E, Raso GM, Castellucci M, Gualillo O, Meli R. Beyond the metabolic role of ghrelin: a new player in the regulation of reproductive function. Peptides 2011; 32:2514-21. [PMID: 22074955 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2011] [Revised: 10/23/2011] [Accepted: 10/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin is a gastric peptide, discovered by Kojima et al. (1999) [55] as a result of the search for an endogenous ligand interacting with the "orphan receptor" GHS-R1a (growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a). Ghrelin is composed of 28 aminoacids and is produced mostly by specific cells of the stomach, by the hypothalamus and hypophysis, even if its presence, as well as that of its receptors, has been demonstrated in many other tissues, not least in gonads. Ghrelin potently stimulates GH release and participates in the regulation of energy homeostasis, increasing food intake, decreasing energy output and exerting a lipogenetic effect. Furthermore, ghrelin influences the secretion and motility of the gastrointestinal tract, especially of the stomach, and, above all, profoundly affects pancreatic functions. Despite of these previously envisaged activities, it has recently been hypothesized that ghrelin regulates several aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology. In conclusion, ghrelin not only cooperates with other neuroendocrine factors, such as leptin, in the modulation of energy homeostasis, but also has a crucial role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal axis. In the current review we summarize the main targets of this gastric peptide, especially focusing on the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giampiero Muccioli
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, Division of Medical Pharmacology, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 13, 10125 Torino, Italy
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Repaci A, Gambineri A, Pagotto U, Pasquali R. Ghrelin and reproductive disorders. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 340:70-9. [PMID: 21453749 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 02/26/2011] [Accepted: 02/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin is an important factor involved in most of the metabolic and hormonal signals which adapt the reproductive functions in conditions of altered energy balance. Moreover, the coordinated role of leptin and ghrelin appears in fact to have a specific role in the regulation of puberty. Systemic action of ghrelin on the reproductive axis involves the control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gondal axis. In addition, it has been shown that ghrelin may directly act at a gonadal level in both females and males. Available data also demonstrate that sex steroid hormones and gonadotropins may in turn regulate the gonadal effect of ghrelin, as documented by studies performed in females with the polycystic ovary syndrome and in hypogonadal men. Notably, recent studies also confirm a potentially important role for ghrelin in fetal and neonatal energy balance, and specifically in allowing fetal adaptation to an adverse intrauterine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Repaci
- St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna, Italy
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Michopoulos V, Loucks T, Berga SL, Rivier J, Wilson ME. Increased ghrelin sensitivity and calorie consumption in subordinate monkeys is affected by short-term astressin B administration. Endocrine 2010; 38:227-34. [PMID: 20981508 PMCID: PMC3057674 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-010-9378-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Animals chronically exposed to stressors with access to diets high in fat and sugar consume and prefer these diets, a result consistent with the association between stress and comfort food ingestion in humans. As social subordination in rhesus monkeys provides an ethologically relevant translational model of psychosocial stress, we tested the hypothesis that differences in food intake between dominant and subordinate female monkeys are due to corticotropin-releasing hormone-(CRH) induced alteration in sensitivity to ghrelin, a potent orexigenic signal. We assessed food intake of animals given a choice between a low (LCD) and high calorie diet (HCD) in response to 4-day treatment with the CRH receptor antagonist, astressin B, and to an acute treatment of ghrelin. Ghrelin stimulated intake of LCD in subordinates but did not further increase consumption of HCD, whereas ghrelin decreased LCD consumption without affecting HCD intake in dominant females. Astressin B decreased cortisol levels and increased preference for and intake of the HCD in subordinates and decreased calorie intake and HCD preference in dominant animals. These results suggest that increased caloric intake by subordinates may, in part, be explained by a greater sensitivity to postprandial increases in ghrelin and that CRH receptor antagonism leading to a decrease in cortisol has mixed effects on food choice depending on an individual's stress background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Michopoulos
- Division of Psychobiology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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Abstract
Athletic women are at risk for developing ovulatory dysfunction, which presents variably as menstrual irregularity or absence. Initially characterized as an isolated disruption of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release, athletic amenorrhea, a form of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, is invariably accompanied by additional neuroendocrine aberrations, including activation of adrenal and suppression of thyroidal axes. Exercise may elicit intermittent or chronic metabolic stress owing to increased energy expenditure and/or insufficient or imbalanced nutrient intake. In addition, athletic activities are motivated by or serve as psychogenic stressors. Prior studies dichotomized stressors as metabolic or psychogenic. Not only is this a false dichotomy because all stressors have both a metabolic and a psychogenic component, but also stressors act synergistically rather than in isolation to compromise GnRH drive and endocrine homeostasis. To ameliorate reproductive and endocrine consequences of stress, then, requires identification and amelioration of all relevant stressors. Formal psychosocial support helps individuals to develop better coping strategies and make appropriate lifestyle changes. Our research has shown that cognitive behavior therapy restores reproductive and endocrine balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Pauli
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Roa J, García-Galiano D, Castellano JM, Gaytan F, Pinilla L, Tena-Sempere M. Metabolic control of puberty onset: new players, new mechanisms. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 324:87-94. [PMID: 20026241 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2009] [Revised: 12/11/2009] [Accepted: 12/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Puberty, as the end-point of a complex series of maturational events affecting the components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, is gated by the state of body energy reserves and sensitive to different metabolic cues; conditions of severe metabolic stress and energy unbalance (from anorexia to morbid obesity) being commonly linked to perturbation of the onset of puberty. In the last two decades, the neuroendocrine mechanisms responsible for the tight coupling between energy homeostasis and puberty onset have begun to be deciphered. These seemingly involve a plethora of metabolic hormones and neuropeptides, which impinge and integrate (mostly) at the hypothalamic centers governing reproduction. Yet, characterization of the mechanisms of action of such regulators (and even their nature and physiological relevance) still remains incomplete. In this review, we will summarize some recent developments in our knowledge of the effects and mechanisms of action of two key metabolic hormones, leptin and ghrelin, in the control of puberty onset. In addition, the roles of the hypothalamic Kiss1 system in the metabolic gating of puberty will be reviewed, with special attention to its regulation by leptin and the recent identification of the putative roles of Crtc1 and mTOR signaling as molecular conduits for the metabolic control of Kiss1 expression. Elucidation of these novel players and regulatory mechanisms will help for a better understanding of the determinants of the timing of puberty, and its eventual alterations in adverse metabolic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Roa
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
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Veldhuis JD, Bowers CY. Integrating GHS into the Ghrelin System. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEPTIDES 2010; 2010:879503. [PMID: 20798846 PMCID: PMC2925380 DOI: 10.1155/2010/879503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2009] [Accepted: 12/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Oligopeptide derivatives of metenkephalin were found to stimulate growth-hormone (GH) release directly by pituitary somatotrope cells in vitro in 1977. Members of this class of peptides and nonpeptidyl mimetics are referred to as GH secretagogues (GHSs). A specific guanosine triphosphatate-binding protein-associated heptahelical transmembrane receptor for GHS was cloned in 1996. An endogenous ligand for the GHS receptor, acylghrelin, was identified in 1999. Expression of ghrelin and homonymous receptor occurs in the brain, pituitary gland, stomach, endothelium/vascular smooth muscle, pancreas, placenta, intestine, heart, bone, and other tissues. Principal actions of this peptidergic system include stimulation of GH release via combined hypothalamopituitary mechanisms, orexigenesis (appetitive enhancement), insulinostasis (inhibition of insulin secretion), cardiovascular effects (decreased mean arterial pressure and vasodilation), stimulation of gastric motility and acid secretion, adipogenesis with repression of fat oxidation, and antiapoptosis (antagonism of endothelial, neuronal, and cardiomyocyte death). The array of known and proposed interactions of ghrelin with key metabolic signals makes ghrelin and its receptor prime targets for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes D. Veldhuis
- Department of Medicine, Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Clinical Translational Science Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Cyril Y. Bowers
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Ghrelin in female and male reproduction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEPTIDES 2010; 2010. [PMID: 20700403 PMCID: PMC2911616 DOI: 10.1155/2010/158102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Revised: 12/23/2009] [Accepted: 01/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin and one of its functional receptors, GHS-R1a (Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor 1a), were firstly studied about 15 years. Ghrelin is a multifunctional peptide hormone that affects several biological functions including food intake, glucose release, cell proliferation… Ghrelin and GHS-R1a are expressed in key cells of both male and female reproductive organs in several species including fishes, birds, and mammals suggesting a well-conserved signal through the evolution and a role in the control of fertility. Ghrelin could be a component of the complex series of nutrient sensors such as adipokines, and nuclear receptors, which regulate reproduction in function of the energy stores. The objective of this paper was to report the available information about the ghrelin system and its role at the level of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in both sexes.
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Forbes S, Li XF, Kinsey-Jones J, O’Byrne K. Effects of ghrelin on Kisspeptin mRNA expression in the hypothalamic medial preoptic area and pulsatile luteinising hormone secretion in the female rat. Neurosci Lett 2009; 460:143-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2009.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Kirby ED, Geraghty AC, Ubuka T, Bentley GE, Kaufer D. Stress increases putative gonadotropin inhibitory hormone and decreases luteinizing hormone in male rats. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:11324-9. [PMID: 19541621 PMCID: PMC2698887 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0901176106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The subjective experience of stress leads to reproductive dysfunction in many species, including rodents and humans. Stress effects on reproduction result from multilevel interactions between the hormonal stress response system, i.e., the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and the hormonal reproductive system, i.e., the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. A novel negative regulator of the HPG axis known as gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) was recently discovered in quail, and orthologous neuropeptides known as RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) have also been identified in rodents and primates. It is currently unknown, however, whether GnIH/RFRPs influence HPG axis activity in response to stress. We show here that both acute and chronic immobilization stress lead to an up-regulation of RFRP expression in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) of adult male rats and that this increase in RFRP is associated with inhibition of downstream HPG activity. We also show that adrenalectomy blocks the stress-induced increase in RFRP expression. Immunohistochemistry revealed that 53% of RFRP cells express receptors for glucocorticoids (GCs), indicating that adrenal GCs can mediate the stress effect through direct action on RFRP cells. It is thought that stress effects on central control of reproduction are largely mediated by direct or indirect effects on GnRH-secreting neurons. Our data show that stress-induced increases in adrenal GCs cause an increase in RFRP that contributes to hypothalamic suppression of reproductive function. This novel insight into HPA-HPG interaction provides a paradigm shift for work on stress-related reproductive dysfunction and infertility, and indicates that future work on stress and reproductive system interactions must include investigation of the role of GnIH/RFRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D. Kirby
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California– Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720; and
| | - Anna C. Geraghty
- Integrative Biology, University of California–Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Takayoshi Ubuka
- Integrative Biology, University of California–Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - George E. Bentley
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California– Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720; and
- Integrative Biology, University of California–Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Daniela Kaufer
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California– Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720; and
- Integrative Biology, University of California–Berkeley, 3060 VLSB #3140, Berkeley, CA 94720
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Ghrelin decreases the secretion of LH probably by suppressing the release of hypothalamic GnRH. So far however, there is no evidence that ghrelin affects also the secretion of FSH in humans, the other gonadotrophin regulated by GnRH. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to study the effect of ghrelin on secretion of FSH in humans. DESIGN/STUDY SUBJECTS: Nocturnal (20:00-07:00 h) secretion profiles of FSH were measured in 10 healthy males (25.3 +/- 3.2 years) twice, receiving 50 microg ghrelin or placebo at 22:00, 23:00, 24:00, and 01:00 h, in this single-blind, randomized, cross-over study. RESULTS Mean FSH plasma levels were significantly (P < 0.05) lower with ghrelin than placebo between 01:00 and 02:20. Consistently, a significant decrease from baseline was only observed in the ghrelin but not in the placebo condition. CONCLUSION This study provides first evidence that ghrelin suppresses the secretion of FSH in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kluge
- Max-Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany.
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Lorenzi T, Meli R, Marzioni D, Morroni M, Baragli A, Castellucci M, Gualillo O, Muccioli G. Ghrelin: a metabolic signal affecting the reproductive system. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2009; 20:137-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2009.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Tena-Sempere M. Ghrelin as a pleotrophic modulator of gonadal function and reproduction. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 4:666-74. [DOI: 10.1038/ncpendmet1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Lanfranco F, Bonelli L, Baldi M, Me E, Broglio F, Ghigo E. Acylated ghrelin inhibits spontaneous luteinizing hormone pulsatility and responsiveness to naloxone but not that to gonadotropin-releasing hormone in young men: evidence for a central inhibitory action of ghrelin on the gonadal axis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:3633-9. [PMID: 18559917 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Recent evidence suggests that ghrelin exerts a negative modulation on the gonadal axis. Ghrelin was reported to suppress LH secretion in both animal and human models. Moreover, acylated ghrelin (AG) also decreases the LH responsiveness to GnRH in vitro. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of AG infusion on spontaneous and stimulated gonadotropin secretion. DESIGN, PARTICIPANTS, AND INTERVENTION In seven young healthy male volunteers (age mean +/- sem 26.4 +/- 2.6 yr), we evaluated LH and FSH levels every 15 min during: 1) iv isotonic saline infusion; 2) iv saline followed by AG; LH and FSH response to GnRH (100 microg iv as a bolus), 3) alone and 4) during AG infusion; LH and FSH response to naloxone (0.1 mg/kg iv as a slow bolus), 5) alone and 6) during AG infusion. RESULTS Significant LH but not FSH pulses were recorded in all subjects under saline infusion. AG infusion inhibited LH levels [area under the curve((240-480)): 415.8 +/- 69.7 mIU/ml.min during AG vs. 744.6 +/- 120.0 mIU/ml.min during saline, P < 0.02] and abolished LH pulsatility. No change in FSH secretion was recorded. The LH and FSH responses to GnRH during saline were not affected by AG administration. However, AG inhibited the LH response to naloxone [area under the curve ((120-210)): 229.9 +/- 39.3 mIU/ml.min during AG vs. 401.1 +/- 44.6 mIU/ml.min during saline, P < 0.01]. FSH levels were not modified by naloxone alone or in combination with AG. CONCLUSIONS AG inhibits both spontaneous LH pulsatility and the LH response to naloxone. Because AG does not affect the LH response to GnRH, these findings indicate that the ghrelin system mediates central inhibition of the gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Lanfranco
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, I-10126 Torino, Italy
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Berga
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 1639 Pierce Drive, Room 4208-WMB, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
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