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Coutinho EA, Esparza LA, Rodriguez J, Yang J, Schafer D, Kauffman AS. Targeted inhibition of kisspeptin neurons reverses hyperandrogenemia and abnormal hyperactive LH secretion in a preclinical mouse model of polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2024:deae153. [PMID: 38978296 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do hyperactive kisspeptin neurons contribute to abnormally high LH secretion and downstream hyperandrogenemia in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-like conditions and can inhibition of kisspeptin neurons rescue such endocrine impairments? SUMMARY ANSWER Targeted inhibition of endogenous kisspeptin neuron activity in a mouse model of PCOS reduced the abnormally hyperactive LH pulse secretion and hyperandrogenemia to healthy control levels. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PCOS is a reproductive disorder characterized by hyperandrogenemia, anovulation, and/or polycystic ovaries, along with a hallmark feature of abnormal LH hyper-pulsatility, but the mechanisms underlying the endocrine impairments remain unclear. A chronic letrozole (LET; aromatase inhibitor) mouse model recapitulates PCOS phenotypes, including polycystic ovaries, anovulation, high testosterone, and hyperactive LH pulses. LET PCOS-like females also have increased hypothalamic kisspeptin neuronal activation which may drive their hyperactive LH secretion and hyperandrogenemia, but this has not been tested. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Transgenic KissCRE+/hM4Di female mice or littermates Cre- controls were treated with placebo, or chronic LET (50 µg/day) to induce a PCOS-like phenotype, followed by acute (once) or chronic (2 weeks) clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) exposure to chemogenetically inhibit kisspeptin cells (n = 6 to 10 mice/group). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Key endocrine measures, including in vivo LH pulse secretion patterns and circulating testosterone levels, were assessed before and after selective kisspeptin neuron inhibition and compared between PCOS groups and healthy controls. Alterations in body weights were measured and pituitary and ovarian gene expression was determined by qRT-PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Acute targeted inhibition of kisspeptin neurons in PCOS mice successfully lowered the abnormally hyperactive LH pulse secretion (P < 0.05). Likewise, chronic selective suppression of kisspeptin neuron activity reversed the previously high LH and testosterone levels (P < 0.05) down to healthy control levels and rescued reproductive gene expression (P < 0. 05). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Ovarian morphology was not assessed in this study. Additionally, mouse models can offer mechanistic insights into neuroendocrine processes in PCOS-like conditions but may not perfectly mirror PCOS in women. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data support the hypothesis that overactive kisspeptin neurons can drive neuroendocrine PCOS-like impairments, and this may occur in PCOS women. Our findings complement recent clinical investigations using NKB receptor antagonists to lower LH in PCOS women and suggest that pharmacological dose-dependent modulation of kisspeptin neuron activity may be a valuable future therapeutic target to clinically treat hyperandrogenism and lower elevated LH in PCOS women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by NIH grants R01 HD111650, R01 HD090161, R01 HD100580, P50 HD012303, R01 AG078185, and NIH R24 HD102061, and a pilot project award from the British Society for Neuroendocrinology. There are no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia A Coutinho
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lourdes A Esparza
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Julian Rodriguez
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jason Yang
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Danielle Schafer
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Talbi R, Stincic TL, Ferrari K, Hae CJ, Walec K, Medve E, Gerutshang A, León S, McCarthy EA, Rønnekleiv OK, Kelly MJ, Navarro VM. POMC neurons control fertility through differential signaling of MC4R in Kisspeptin neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.18.580873. [PMID: 38915534 PMCID: PMC11195098 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.18.580873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Inactivating mutations in the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) gene cause monogenic obesity. Interestingly, female patients also display various degrees of reproductive disorders, in line with the subfertile phenotype of MC4RKO female mice. However, the cellular mechanisms by which MC4R regulates reproduction are unknown. Kiss1 neurons directly stimulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release through two distinct populations; the Kiss1ARH neurons, controlling GnRH pulses, and the sexually dimorphic Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons controlling the preovulatory LH surge. Here, we show that Mc4r expressed in Kiss1 neurons is required for fertility in females. In vivo, deletion of Mc4r from Kiss1 neurons in female mice replicates the reproductive impairments of MC4RKO mice without inducing obesity. Conversely, reinsertion of Mc4r in Kiss1 neurons of MC4R null mice restores estrous cyclicity and LH pulsatility without reducing their obese phenotype. In vitro, we dissect the specific action of MC4R on Kiss1ARH vs Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons and show that MC4R activation excites Kiss1ARH neurons through direct synaptic actions. In contrast, Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons are normally inhibited by MC4R activation except under elevated estradiol levels, thus facilitating the activation of Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons to induce the LH surge driving ovulation in females. Our findings demonstrate that POMCARH neurons acting through MC4R, directly regulate reproductive function in females by stimulating the "pulse generator" activity of Kiss1ARH neurons and restricting the activation of Kiss1AVPV/PeN neurons to the time of the estradiol-dependent LH surge, and thus unveil a novel pathway of the metabolic regulation of fertility by the melanocortin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajae Talbi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Todd L. Stincic
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Kaitlin Ferrari
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Choi Ji Hae
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karol Walec
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Medve
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Achi Gerutshang
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Silvia León
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. McCarthy
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oline K. Rønnekleiv
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Martin J. Kelly
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Víctor M. Navarro
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Program in Neuroscience, Boston, MA, USA
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Sucquart IE, Coyle C, Rodriguez Paris V, Prescott M, Glendining KA, Potapov K, Begg DP, Gilchrist RB, Walters KA, Campbell RE. Investigating GABA Neuron-Specific Androgen Receptor Knockout in two Hyperandrogenic Models of PCOS. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae060. [PMID: 38788194 PMCID: PMC11151696 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae060] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Androgen excess is a hallmark feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common form of anovulatory infertility. Clinical and preclinical evidence links developmental or chronic exposure to hyperandrogenism with programming and evoking the reproductive and metabolic traits of PCOS. While critical androgen targets remain to be determined, central GABAergic neurons are postulated to be involved. Here, we tested the hypothesis that androgen signaling in GABAergic neurons is critical in PCOS pathogenesis in 2 well-characterized hyperandrogenic mouse models of PCOS. Using cre-lox transgenics, GABA-specific androgen receptor knockout (GABARKO) mice were generated and exposed to either acute prenatal androgen excess (PNA) or chronic peripubertal androgen excess (PPA). Females were phenotyped for reproductive and metabolic features associated with each model and brains of PNA mice were assessed for elevated GABAergic input to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Reproductive and metabolic dysfunction induced by PPA, including acyclicity, absence of corpora lutea, obesity, adipocyte hypertrophy, and impaired glucose homeostasis, was not different between GABARKO and wild-type (WT) mice. In PNA mice, acyclicity remained in GABARKO mice while ovarian morphology and luteinizing hormone secretion was not significantly impacted by PNA or genotype. However, PNA predictably increased the density of putative GABAergic synapses to GnRH neurons in adult WT mice, and this PNA-induced plasticity was absent in GABARKO mice. Together, these findings suggest that while direct androgen signaling in GABA neurons is largely not required for the development of PCOS-like traits in androgenized models of PCOS, developmental programming of GnRH neuron innervation is dependent upon androgen signaling in GABA neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene E Sucquart
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Chris Coyle
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Valentina Rodriguez Paris
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Kelly A Glendining
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Kyoko Potapov
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Denovan P Begg
- Department of Behavioural Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Kirsty A Walters
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
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Kusamoto A, Harada M, Minemura A, Matsumoto A, Oka K, Takahashi M, Sakaguchi N, Azhary JMK, Koike H, Xu Z, Tanaka T, Urata Y, Kunitomi C, Takahashi N, Wada-Hiraike O, Hirota Y, Osuga Y. Effects of the prenatal and postnatal nurturing environment on the phenotype and gut microbiota of mice with polycystic ovary syndrome induced by prenatal androgen exposure: a cross-fostering study. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1365624. [PMID: 38590777 PMCID: PMC10999616 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1365624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is implicated in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and prenatal androgen exposure is involved in the development of PCOS in later life. Our previous study of a mouse model of PCOS induced by prenatal dihydrotestosterone (DHT) exposure showed that the reproductive phenotype of PCOS appears from puberty, followed by the appearance of the metabolic phenotype after young adulthood, while changes in the gut microbiota was already apparent before puberty. To determine whether the prenatal or postnatal nurturing environment primarily contributes to these changes that characterize prenatally androgenized (PNA) offspring, we used a cross-fostering model to evaluate the effects of changes in the postnatal early-life environment of PNA offspring on the development of PCOS-like phenotypes and alterations in the gut microbiota in later life. Female PNA offspring fostered by normal dams (exposed to an abnormal prenatal environment only, fostered PNA) exhibited less marked PCOS-like phenotypes than PNA offspring, especially with respect to the metabolic phenotype. The gut microbiota of the fostered PNA offspring was similar to that of controls before adolescence, but differences between the fostered PNA and control groups became apparent after young adulthood. In conclusion, both prenatal androgen exposure and the postnatal early-life environment created by the DHT injection of mothers contribute to the development of PCOS-like phenotypes and the alterations in the gut microbiota that characterize PNA offspring. Thus, both the pre- and postnatal environments represent targets for the prevention of PCOS and the associated alteration in the gut microbiota in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akari Kusamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayaka Minemura
- R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama, Japan
| | - Asami Matsumoto
- R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama, Japan
| | - Kentaro Oka
- R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Nanoka Sakaguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jerilee M. K. Azhary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hiroshi Koike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zixin Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsurugi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Urata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chisato Kunitomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nozomi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Wada-Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Kerbus RI, Decourt C, Inglis MA, Campbell RE, Anderson GM. Androgen receptor actions on AgRP neurons are not a major cause of reproductive and metabolic impairments in peripubertally androgenized mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2024; 36:e13370. [PMID: 38344844 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13370] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Excess levels of circulating androgens during prenatal or peripubertal development are an important cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with the brain being a key target. Approximately half of the women diagnosed with PCOS also experience metabolic syndrome; common features including obesity, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. Although a large amount of clinical and preclinical evidence has confirmed this relationship between androgens and the reproductive and metabolic features of PCOS, the mechanisms by which androgens cause this dysregulation are unknown. Neuron-specific androgen receptor knockout alleviates some PCOS-like features in a peripubertal dihydrotestosterone (DHT) mouse model, but the specific neuronal populations mediating these effects are undefined. A candidate population is the agouti-related peptide (AgRP)-expressing neurons, which are important for both reproductive and metabolic function. We used a well-characterised peripubertal androgenized mouse model and Cre-loxP transgenics to investigate whether deleting androgen receptors specifically from AgRP neurons can alleviate the induced reproductive and metabolic dysregulation. Androgen receptors were co-expressed in 66% of AgRP neurons in control mice, but only in <2% of AgRP neurons in knockout mice. The number of AgRP neurons was not altered by the treatments. Only 20% of androgen receptor knockout mice showed rescue of DHT-induced androgen-induced anovulation and acyclicity. Furthermore, androgen receptor knockout did not rescue metabolic dysfunction (body weight, adiposity or glucose and insulin tolerance). While we cannot rule out developmental compensation in our model, these results suggest peripubertal androgen excess does not markedly influence Agrp expression and does not dysregulate reproductive and metabolic function through direct actions of androgens onto AgRP neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy I Kerbus
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Caroline Decourt
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Megan A Inglis
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Greg M Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Liu C, Dou Y, Zhang M, Han S, Hu S, Li Y, Yu Z, Liu Y, Liang X, Chen ZJ, Zhao H, Zhang Y. High-fat and high-sucrose diet impairs female reproduction by altering ovarian transcriptomic and metabolic signatures. J Transl Med 2024; 22:145. [PMID: 38347623 PMCID: PMC10860219 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04952-y] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excessive energy intake in modern society has led to an epidemic surge in metabolic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, posing profound threats to women's reproductive health. However, the precise impact and underlying pathogenesis of energy excess on female reproduction remain unclear. METHODS We established an obese and hyperglycemic female mouse model induced by a high-fat and high-sucrose (HFHS) diet, then reproductive phenotypes of these mice were evaluated by examing sexual hormones, estrous cycles, and ovarian morphologies. Transcriptomic and precise metabolomic analyses of the ovaries were performed to compare the molecular and metabolic changes in HFHS mice. Finally, orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis was performed to compare the similarities of traits between HFHS mice and women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). RESULTS The HFHS mice displayed marked reproductive dysfunctions, including elevated serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels, irregular estrous cycles, and impaired folliculogenesis, mimicking the clinical manifestations of women with PCOS. Precise metabolomic overview suggested that HFHS diet disrupted amino acid metabolism in the ovaries of female mice. Additionally, transcriptional profiling revealed pronounced disturbances in ovarian steroid hormone biosynthesis and glucolipid metabolism in HFHS mice. Further multi-omics analyses unveiled prominent aberration in ovarian arginine biosynthesis pathway. Notably, comparisons between HFHS mice and a cohort of PCOS patients identified analogous reproductive and metabolic signatures. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide direct in vivo evidence for the detrimental effects of overnutrition on female reproduction and offer insights into the metabolic underpinnings of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Liu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yunde Dou
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Mengge Zhang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shan Han
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shourui Hu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yuxuan Li
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiheng Yu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaofan Liang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200135, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China
| | - Han Zhao
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Yuqing Zhang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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Nisa KU, Tarfeen N, Mir SA, Waza AA, Ahmad MB, Ganai BA. Molecular Mechanisms in the Etiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Multifaceted Hypothesis Towards the Disease with Potential Therapeutics. Indian J Clin Biochem 2024; 39:18-36. [PMID: 38223007 PMCID: PMC10784448 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-023-01130-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Among the premenopausal women, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy affecting the reproductive system and metabolic rhythms leading to disrupted menstrual cycle. Being heterogeneous in nature it is characterized by complex symptomology of oligomennorhoea, excess of androgens triggering masculine phenotypic appearance and/or multiple follicular ovaries. The etiology of this complex disorder remains somewhat doubtful and the researchers hypothesize multisystem links in the pathogenesis of this disease. In this review, we attempt to present several hypotheses that tend to contribute to the etiology of PCOS. Metabolic inflexibility, aberrant pattern of gonadotropin signaling along with the evolutionary, genetic and environmental factors have been discussed. Considered a lifelong endocrinological implication, no universal treatment is available for PCOS so far however; multiple drug therapy is often advised along with simple life style intervention is mainly advised to manage its cardinal symptoms. Here we aimed to present a summarized view of pathophysiological links of PCOS with potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khair Ul Nisa
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006 India
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006 India
| | - Najeebul Tarfeen
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006 India
| | - Shahnaz Ahmad Mir
- Department of Endocrinology, Government Medical College, Shireen Bagh, Srinagar, 190010 India
| | - Ajaz Ahmad Waza
- Multidisciplinary Research Unit (MRU), Government Medical Collage (GMC), Srinagar, 190010 India
| | - Mir Bilal Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006 India
| | - Bashir Ahmad Ganai
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006 India
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Yoshita S, Osuka S, Shimizu T, Fujitsuka N, Matsumoto C, Bayasula, Miyake N, Muraoka A, Nakanishi N, Nakamura T, Goto M, Kajiyama H. Unkeito promotes follicle development by restoring reduced follicle-stimulating hormone responsiveness in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1228088. [PMID: 37790609 PMCID: PMC10545092 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1228088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder resulting in irregular menstruation and infertility due to improper follicular development and ovulation. PCOS pathogenesis is mediated by downregulated follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) expression in granulosa cells (GCs); however, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Unkeito (UKT) is a traditional Japanese medicine used to treat irregular menstruation in patients with PCOS. In this study, we aimed to confirm the effectiveness of UKT in PCOS by focusing on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) responsiveness. Methods A rat model of PCOS was generated by prenatal treatment with 5α-dihydrotestosterone. Female offspring (3-week-old) rats were fed a UKT mixed diet or a normal diet daily. To compare the PCOS phenotype in rats, the estrous cycle, hormone profiles, and ovarian morphology were evaluated. To further examine the role of FSH, molecular, genetic, and immunohistological analyses were performed using ovarian tissues and primary cultured GCs from normal and PCOS model rats. Results UKT increased the number of antral and preovulatory follicles and restored the irregular estrous cycle in PCOS rats. The gene expression levels of FSHR and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 and BMP-6 were significantly decreased in the ovarian GCs of PCOS rats compared to those in normal rats. UKT treatment increased FSHR staining in the small antral follicles and upregulated Fshr and Bmps expression in the ovary and GCs of PCOS rats. There was no change in serum gonadotropin levels. In primary cultured GCs stimulated by FSH, UKT enhanced estradiol production, accompanied by increased intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels, and upregulated the expression of genes encoding the enzymes involved in local estradiol synthesis, namely Cyp19a1 and Hsd17b. Furthermore, UKT elevated the expression of Star and Cyp11a1, involved in progesterone production in cultured GCs in the presence of FSH. Conclusions UKT stimulates ovarian follicle development by potentiating FSH responsiveness by upregulating BMP-2 and BMP-6 expression, resulting in the recovery of estrous cycle abnormalities in PCOS rats. Restoring the FSHR dysfunction in the small antral follicles may alleviate the PCOS phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayako Yoshita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Shimizu
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Naoki Fujitsuka
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Chinami Matsumoto
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Bayasula
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Japan
| | - Natsuki Miyake
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ayako Muraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Natsuki Nakanishi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tomoko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Maki Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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Cara AL, Burger LL, Beekly BG, Allen SJ, Henson EL, Auchus RJ, Myers MG, Moenter SM, Elias CF. Deletion of Androgen Receptor in LepRb Cells Improves Estrous Cycles in Prenatally Androgenized Mice. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad015. [PMID: 36683455 PMCID: PMC10091504 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are steroid hormones crucial for sexual differentiation of the brain and reproductive function. In excess, however, androgens may decrease fertility as observed in polycystic ovary syndrome, a common endocrine disorder characterized by oligo/anovulation and/or polycystic ovaries. Hyperandrogenism may also disrupt energy homeostasis, inducing higher central adiposity, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance, which may exacerbate reproductive dysfunction. Androgens bind to androgen receptors (ARs), which are expressed in many reproductive and metabolic tissues, including brain sites that regulate the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis and energy homeostasis. The neuronal populations affected by androgen excess, however, have not been defined. We and others have shown that, in mice, AR is highly expressed in leptin receptor (LepRb) neurons, particularly in the arcuate (ARH) and the ventral premammillary nuclei (PMv). Here, we assessed if LepRb neurons, which are critical in the central regulation of energy homeostasis and exert permissive actions on puberty and fertility, have a role in the pathogenesis of female hyperandrogenism. Prenatally androgenized (PNA) mice lacking AR in LepRb cells (LepRbΔAR) show no changes in body mass, body composition, glucose homeostasis, or sexual maturation. They do show, however, a remarkable improvement of estrous cycles combined with normalization of ovary morphology compared to PNA controls. Our findings indicate that the prenatal androgenization effects on adult reproductive physiology (ie, anestrus and anovulation) are mediated by a subpopulation of LepRb neurons directly sensitive to androgens. They also suggest that the effects of hyperandrogenism on sexual maturation and reproductive function in adult females are controlled by distinct neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Cara
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Laura L Burger
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Bethany G Beekly
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Susan J Allen
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Emily L Henson
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Martin G Myers
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Carol F Elias
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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Donaldson NM, Prescott M, Ruddenklau A, Campbell RE, Desroziers E. Maternal androgen excess significantly impairs sexual behavior in male and female mouse offspring: Perspective for a biological origin of sexual dysfunction in PCOS. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1116482. [PMID: 36875467 PMCID: PMC9975579 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1116482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common infertility disorder worldwide, typically characterised by high circulating androgen levels, oligo- or anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Sexual dysfunction, including decreased sexual desire and increased sexual dissatisfaction, is also reported by women with PCOS. The origins of these sexual difficulties remain largely unidentified. To investigate potential biological origins of sexual dysfunction in PCOS patients, we asked whether the well-characterized, prenatally androgenized (PNA) mouse model of PCOS exhibits modified sex behaviours and whether central brain circuits associated with female sex behaviour are differentially regulated. As a male equivalent of PCOS is reported in the brothers of women with PCOS, we also investigated the impact of maternal androgen excess on the sex behaviour of male siblings. METHODS Adult male and female offspring of dams exposed to dihydrotestosterone (PNAM/PNAF) or an oil vehicle (VEH) from gestational days 16 to 18 were tested for a suite of sex-specific behaviours. RESULTS PNAM showed a reduction in their mounting capabilities, however, most of PNAM where able to reach ejaculation by the end of the test similar to the VEH control males. In contrast, PNAF exhibited a significant impairment in the female-typical sexual behaviour, lordosis. Interestingly, while neuronal activation was largely similar between PNAF and VEH females, impaired lordosis behaviour in PNAF was unexpectedly associated with decreased neuronal activation in the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH). CONCLUSION Taken together, these data link prenatal androgen exposure that drives a PCOS-like phenotype with altered sexual behaviours in both sexes.
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11
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Khant Aung Z, Masih RR, Desroziers E, Campbell RE, Brown RSE. Enhanced pup retrieval behaviour in a mouse model of polycystic ovary syndrome. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13206. [PMID: 36416198 PMCID: PMC10077988 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13206] [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: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy to affect women of reproductive-age world-wide. Hyperandrogenism is both a hallmark feature of PCOS, and is hypothesised to be an underlying mechanism driving the development of the condition in utero. With circulating hormones known to profoundly influence maternal responses in females, we aimed to determine whether maternal behaviour is altered in a well-described prenatally androgenised (PNA) mouse model of PCOS. Mouse dams were administered with dihydrotestosterone or vehicle on days 16, 17 and 18 of pregnancy. Maternal responses were assessed in both the dihydrotestosterone-injected dams following parturition and in their adult female PNA offspring. Exposure of dams to excess androgens during late pregnancy had no detrimental effects on pregnancy outcomes, including gestation length, pup survival and gestational weight gain, or on subsequent maternal behaviour following parturition. By contrast, PNA virgin females, modelling PCOS, exhibited enhanced maternal behaviour when tested in an anxiogenic novel cage environment, with females rapidly retrieving pups and nesting with them. In comparison, most control virgin females failed to complete this retrieval task in the anxiogenic environment. Assessment of progesterone receptor and oestrogen receptor α immunoreactivity in the brains of virgin PNA and control females revealed increased numbers of oestrogen receptor α positive cells in the brains of PNA females in regions well known to be important for maternal behaviour. This suggests that increased oestrogenic signalling in the neural circuit that underlies maternal behaviour may be a possible mechanism by which maternal behaviour is enhanced in PNA female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zin Khant Aung
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Renee R Masih
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Sorbonne Université - Faculté de Sciences et Ingénierie, Neuroplasticité des Comportements de la Reproduction, Neurosciences Paris Seine, UM119 - CNRS UMR 8246 - INSERM UMRS 1130, Paris, France
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rosemary S E Brown
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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12
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Stener-Victorin E. Update on Animal Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6750034. [PMID: 36201611 PMCID: PMC9631972 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac164] [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: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disease affecting up to 15% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS suffer from reproductive dysfunctions with excessive androgen secretion and irregular ovulation, leading to reduced fertility and pregnancy complications. The syndrome is associated with a wide range of comorbidities including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and psychiatric disorders. Despite the high prevalence of PCOS, its etiology remains unclear. To understand the pathophysiology of PCOS, how it is inherited, and how to predict PCOS, and prevent and treat women with the syndrome, animal models provide an important approach to answering these fundamental questions. This minireview summarizes recent investigative efforts on PCOS-like rodent models aiming to define underlying mechanisms of the disease and provide guidance in model selection. The focus is on new genetic rodent models, on a naturally occurring rodent model, and provides an update on prenatal and peripubertal exposure models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Stener-Victorin
- Correspondence: Elisabet Stener-Victorin, PhD, Professor, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, B5, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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13
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Valsamakis G, Violetis O, Chatzakis C, Triantafyllidou O, Eleftheriades M, Lambrinoudaki I, Mastorakos G, Vlahos NF. Daughters of polycystic ovary syndrome pregnancies and androgen levels in puberty: a Meta-analysis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:822-830. [PMID: 36104976 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2121386] [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] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To provide an overview and critical analysis of the literature related to the circulating androgen levels of daughters of PCOS mothers during prepubertal and pubertal stage who have not yet been diagnosed with PCOS or precocious puberty. Methods: We critically considered and meta-analyzed observational studies comparing androgens concentration in daughters of PCOS mothers compared to daughters of mothers without PCOS. A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus and other sources from 01/09/2021 until 01/12/2021. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The primary outcome included total testosterone levels whereas the secondary outcomes included 17a-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), androstenedione (Δ4Α) and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels respectively. Results: Our search yielded 1073 studies, 9 of which were included in our analysis. The results are presented differently according to pubertal stage. Pubertal daughters of PCOS mothers exhibited significantly higher total testosterone (pooled mean difference 14.95 (95%CI: 6.98 to 22.93), higher 17-OHP (pooled mean difference 0.11 (95%CI: 0.02 to 0.20) and lower SHBG levels (pooled mean difference -10.48 (95%CI: -16.46 to -4.61). Instead, prepubertal daughters of PCOS mothers presented greater SHBG levels (pooled mean difference 7.79 (95%CI: 0.03 to 15.54) compared to controls. No difference was found in Δ4Α levels in both groups. Conclusion: The onset of puberty is a critical point in the development of the disease and an early intervention may be imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Valsamakis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Odyssefs Violetis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Chatzakis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Olga Triantafyllidou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Makarios Eleftheriades
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Mastorakos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikos F Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Younesi S, Soch A, Sominsky L, Spencer SJ. Long-term role of neonatal microglia and monocytes in ovarian health. J Endocrinol 2022; 254:103-119. [PMID: 35670374 DOI: 10.1530/joe-21-0404] [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: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Early life microglia are essential for brain development, and developmental disruption in microglial activity may have long-term implications for the neuroendocrine control of reproduction. We and others have previously shown that early life immune activation compromises the long-term potential for reproductive function in females. However, the supportive role of microglia in female reproductive development is still unknown. Here, we examined the long-term programming effects of transient neonatal microglial and monocyte ablation on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis function in female rats. We employed a Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic Wistar rat model to acutely ablate microglia and monocytes, commencing on either postnatal day (P) 7 or 14, since the development of the HPG axis in female rodents primarily occurs during the first two to three postnatal weeks. After an acutely diminished expression of microglia and monocyte genes in the brain and ovaries, respectively, microglia had repopulated the brain by P21, albeit that cellular complexity was still reduced in both groups at this time. Removal of microglia and monocytes on P7, but not P14 reduced circulating luteinising hormone levels in adulthood and ovarian gonadotropin receptors mRNA. These changes were notably associated with fewer primary and antral follicles in these rats. These data suggest that transient ablation of microglia and monocytes at the start of the second but not the third postnatal week has long-term effects on ovarian health. The findings highlight the important developmental role of a healthy immune system for female potential reproductive capacity and the importance of critical developmental periods to adult ovarian health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Younesi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alita Soch
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Microscopy Facility, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luba Sominsky
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Barwon Health Laboratory, Barwon Health, University Hospital, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Institute for Physical and Mental Health and Clinical Transformation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Female sexual behavior is disrupted in a preclinical mouse model of PCOS via an attenuated hypothalamic nitric oxide pathway. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203503119. [PMID: 35867816 PMCID: PMC9335209 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203503119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder leading to female infertility worldwide. Patients with PCOS also often experience sexual dysfunction; however, the developmental and central mechanisms mediating this behavioral derangement are unclear. Here, we show that prenatal excess of anti-Müllerian hormone triggers PCOS-like impairment in female sexual behavior in mice. Sexual dysfunction in PCOS-like mice is associated with decreased expression of progesterone-sensitive neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) neurons in the hypothalamus. Chemogenetic inhibition of nNOS neuronal activity in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus recapitulates PCOS-like sexual dysfunction. Of clinical relevance, administration of nitric oxide donor rescues normal sexual behavior in PCOS-like mice. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) frequently experience decreased sexual arousal, desire, and sexual satisfaction. While the hypothalamus is known to regulate sexual behavior, the specific neuronal pathways affected in patients with PCOS are not known. To dissect the underlying neural circuitry, we capitalized on a robust preclinical animal model that reliably recapitulates all cardinal PCOS features. We discovered that female mice prenatally treated with anti-Müllerian hormone (PAMH) display impaired sexual behavior and sexual partner preference over the reproductive age. Blunted female sexual behavior was associated with increased sexual rejection and independent of sex steroid hormone status. Structurally, sexual dysfunction was associated with a substantial loss of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-expressing neurons in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) and other areas of hypothalamic nuclei involved in social behaviors. Using in vivo chemogenetic manipulation, we show that nNOSVMH neurons are required for the display of normal sexual behavior in female mice and that pharmacological replenishment of nitric oxide restores normal sexual performance in PAMH mice. Our data provide a framework to investigate facets of hypothalamic nNOS neuron biology with implications for sexual disturbances in PCOS.
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Campbell RE, Coolen LM, Hoffman GE, Hrabovszky E. Highlights of neuroanatomical discoveries of the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone system. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13115. [PMID: 35502534 PMCID: PMC9232911 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The anatomy and morphology of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons makes them both a joy and a challenge to investigate. They are a highly unique population of neurons given their developmental migration into the brain from the olfactory placode, their relatively small number, their largely scattered distribution within the rostral forebrain, and, in some species, their highly varied individual anatomical characteristics. These unique features have posed technological hurdles to overcome and promoted fertile ground for the establishment and use of creative approaches. Historical and more contemporary discoveries defining GnRH neuron anatomy remain critical in shaping and challenging our views of GnRH neuron function in the regulation of reproductive function. We begin this review with a historical overview of anatomical discoveries and developing methodologies that have shaped our understanding of the reproductive axis. We then highlight significant discoveries across specific groups of mammalian species to address some of the important comparative aspects of GnRH neuroanatomy. Lastly, we touch on unresolved questions and opportunities for future neuroanatomical research on this fascinating and important population of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Lique M. Coolen
- Department of Biological SciencesKent State UniversityKentOhioUSA
| | | | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive NeurobiologyInstitute of Experimental MedicineBudapestHungary
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McCartney CR, Campbell RE, Marshall JC, Moenter SM. The role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in polycystic ovary syndrome. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13093. [PMID: 35083794 PMCID: PMC9232905 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Given the critical central role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in fertility, it is not surprising that the GnRH neural network is implicated in the pathology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. Although many symptoms of PCOS relate most proximately to ovarian dysfunction, the central reproductive neuroendocrine system ultimately drives ovarian function through its regulation of anterior pituitary gonadotropin release. The typical cyclical changes in frequency of GnRH release are often absent in women with PCOS, resulting in a persistent high-frequency drive promoting gonadotropin changes (i.e., relatively high luteinizing hormone and relatively low follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations) that contribute to ovarian hyperandrogenemia and ovulatory dysfunction. However, the specific mechanisms underpinning GnRH neuron dysfunction in PCOS remain unclear. Here, we summarize several preclinical and clinical studies that explore the causes of aberrant GnRH secretion in PCOS and the role of disordered GnRH secretion in PCOS pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. McCartney
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Department of MedicineUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVAUSA
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - John C. Marshall
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Department of MedicineUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVAUSA
| | - Suzanne M. Moenter
- Departments of Molecular & Integrative PhysiologyInternal MedicineObstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
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18
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Coyle CS, Prescott M, Handelsman DJ, Walters KA, Campbell RE. Chronic androgen excess in female mice does not impact luteinizing hormone pulse frequency or putative GABAergic inputs to GnRH neurons. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13110. [PMID: 35267218 PMCID: PMC9286661 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with androgen excess and, frequently, hyperactive pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Although the origins of PCOS are unclear, evidence from pre-clinical models implicates androgen signalling in the brain in the development of PCOS pathophysiology. Chronic exposure of female mice to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from 3 weeks of age drives both reproductive and metabolic impairments that are ameliorated by selective androgen receptor (AR) loss from the brain. This suggests centrally driven mechanisms in hyperandrogen-mediated PCOS-like pathophysiology that remain to be defined. Acute prenatal DHT exposure can also model the hyperandrogenism of PCOS, and this is accompanied by increased LH pulse frequency and increased GABAergic innervation of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. We aimed to determine the impact of chronic exposure of female mice to DHT, which models the hyperandrogenism of PCOS, on pulsatile LH secretion and putative GABAergic input to GnRH neurons. To do this, GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GFP) female mice received either DHT or blank capsules for 90 days from postnatal day 21 (n = 6 or 7 per group). Serial tail-tip blood sampling was used to measure LH dynamics and perfusion-fixed brains were collected and immunolabelled for vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) to assess putative GABAergic terminals associated with GFP-labelled GnRH neurons. As expected, chronic DHT resulted in acyclicity and significantly increased body weight. However, no differences in LH pulse frequency or the density of VGAT appositions to GnRH neurons were identified between ovary-intact DHT-treated females and controls. Chronic DHT exposure significantly increased the number of AR expressing cells in the hypothalamus, whereas oestrogen receptor α-expressing neuron number was unchanged. Therefore, although chronic DHT exposure from 3 weeks of age increases AR expressing neurons in the brain, the GnRH neuronal network changes and hyperactive LH secretion associated with prenatal androgen excess are not evident. These findings suggest that unique central mechanisms are involved in the reproductive impairments driven by exposure to androgen excess at different developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S. Coyle
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - David J Handelsman
- Andrology LaboratoryANZAC Research InstituteConcord HospitalUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Kirsty A. Walters
- Fertility and Research CentreSchool of Women’s and Children’s HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
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19
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Kim SH, Lundgren JA, Patrie JT, Burt Solorzano CM, McCartney CR. Acute progesterone feedback on gonadotropin secretion is not demonstrably altered in estradiol-pretreated women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15233. [PMID: 35384387 PMCID: PMC8981178 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) demonstrate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator resistance to suppression with 7 days of progesterone and estradiol administration. It remains unknown whether such women demonstrate impairments in acute progesterone negative feedback on LH pulse frequency or progesterone positive feedback on gonadotropin release. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study designed to test the hypothesis that acute, progesterone-related suppression of LH pulse frequency and progesterone-related augmentation of gonadotropin release are impaired in PCOS. Twelve normally cycling women and 12 women with PCOS completed study. Volunteers were pretreated with transdermal estradiol (0.2 mg/day) for 3 days and then underwent a frequent blood sampling study (20:00-20:00 h), during which they received micronized progesterone (100 mg) or placebo at 06:00 h. In a second study admission, volunteers received the intervention they did not receive during the first admission, but the protocol was otherwise identical. The primary outcome measures were LH secretory characteristics and circulating gonadotropin concentrations. Exogenous progesterone did not reduce LH pulse frequency in either group. Mean LH, pulsatile LH secretion, LH pulse mass, and mean FSH increased more with progesterone compared to placebo in both groups. Although trends toward less pronounced changes in LH pulse mass and pulsatile LH secretion were observed in the PCOS group, these differences were not statistically significant. In summary, exogenous progesterone did not suppress LH pulse frequency within 12 hours in estradiol-pretreated women, and the positive feedback effect of progesterone on gonadotropin release was not demonstrably impaired in PCOS. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: This study indicated that exogenous progesterone does not reduce LH pulse frequency within 12 h in women with PCOS, but progesterone acutely increased gonadotropin in these women. This study suggested that progesterone-related augmentation of gonadotropin release may be impaired in PCOS compared to normally cycling women, but this finding was not statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Hee Kim
- Center for Research in ReproductionUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Jessica A. Lundgren
- Center for Research in ReproductionUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - James T. Patrie
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Christine M. Burt Solorzano
- Center for Research in ReproductionUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of PediatricsUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Christopher R. McCartney
- Center for Research in ReproductionUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
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20
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Chappell NR, Gibbons WE, Blesson CS. Pathology of hyperandrogenemia in the oocyte of polycystic ovary syndrome. Steroids 2022; 180:108989. [PMID: 35189133 PMCID: PMC8920773 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.108989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovulatory disorder in the world and is associated with multiple adverse outcomes. The phenotype is widely varied, with several pathologies contributing to the spectrum of the disease including insulin resistance, obesity and hyperandrogenemia. Of these, the role of hyperandrogenemia and the mechanism by which it causes dysfunction remains poorly understood. Early studies have shown that androgens may affect the metabolic pathways of a cell, and this may pose hazards at the level of the mitochondria. As mitochondria are strictly maternally inherited, this would provide an exciting explanation not only to the pathophysiology of PCOS as a disease, but also to the inheritance pattern. This review seeks to summarize what is known about PCOS and associated adverse outcomes with focus on the role of hyperandrogenemia and specific emphasis on the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil R Chappell
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA
| | - William E Gibbons
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA
| | - Chellakkan S Blesson
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA.
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21
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Silva MSB, Campbell RE. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Neuroendocrine Consequences of Androgen Excess. Compr Physiol 2022; 12:3347-3369. [PMID: 35578968 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c210025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder strongly associated with androgen excess and frequently leading to female infertility. Although classically considered an ovarian disease, altered neuroendocrine control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the brain and abnormal gonadotropin secretion may underpin PCOS presentation. Defective regulation of GnRH pulse generation in PCOS promotes high luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatile secretion, which in turn overstimulates ovarian androgen production. Early and emerging evidence from preclinical models suggests that maternal androgen excess programs abnormalities in developing neuroendocrine circuits that are associated with PCOS pathology, and that these abnormalities are sustained by postpubertal elevation of endogenous androgen levels. This article will discuss experimental evidence, from the clinic and in preclinical animal models, that has significantly contributed to our understanding of how androgen excess influences the assembly and maintenance of neuroendocrine impairments in the female brain. Abnormal central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling has been identified in both patients and preclinical models as a possible link between androgen excess and elevated GnRH/LH secretion. Enhanced GABAergic innervation and drive to GnRH neurons is suspected to contribute to the pathogenesis and early manifestation of neuroendocrine derangement in PCOS. Accordingly, this article also provides an overview of GABA regulation of GnRH neuron function from prenatal development to adulthood to discuss possible avenues for future discovery research and therapeutic interventions. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3347-3369, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro S B Silva
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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22
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Bhattarai P, Rijal S, Bhattarai JP, Cho DH, Han SK. Suppression of neurotransmission on gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome: A mouse model. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059255. [PMID: 36699037 PMCID: PMC9868609 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women, characterized by the accretion of small cystic follicles in the ovary associated with chronic anovulation and overproduction of androgens. Ovarian function in all mammals is controlled by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which are the central regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. However, the impact on the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal function in the letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model remains unclear. METHODS In this study, we compared the response of various neurotransmitters and neurosteroids regulating GnRH neuronal activities between letrozole-induced PCOS and normal mice via electrophysiological techniques. RESULTS Response to neurotransmitter systems like GABAergic, glutamatergic and kisspeptinergic were suppressed in letrozole-fed compared to normal mice. In addition, neurosteroids tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC) and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c] pyridine-3-ol (THIP) mediated response on GnRH neurons were significantly smaller on letrozole-fed mice compared to normal mice. Furthermore, we also found that letrozole-fed mice showed irregularity in the estrous cycle, increased body weight, and anovulation in female mice. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that PCOS is an endocrine disorder that may directly affect the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal activity at the hypothalamic level and impact reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin Bhattarai
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Santosh Rijal
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Janardhan P. Bhattarai
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Dong Hyu Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
| | - Seong Kyu Han
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
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23
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Emanuel RHK, Roberts J, Docherty PD, Lunt H, Campbell RE, Möller K. A review of the hormones involved in the endocrine dysfunctions of polycystic ovary syndrome and their interactions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1017468. [PMID: 36457554 PMCID: PMC9705998 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1017468] [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: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 20% of women but remains poorly understood. It is a heterogeneous condition with many potential comorbidities. This review offers an overview of the dysregulation of the reproductive and metabolic systems associated with PCOS. Review of the literature informed the development of a comprehensive summarizing 'wiring' diagram of PCOS-related features. This review provides a justification for each diagram aspect from the relevant academic literature, and explores the interactions between the hypothalamus, ovarian follicles, adipose tissue, reproductive hormones and other organ systems. The diagram will provide an efficient and useful tool for those researching and treating PCOS to understand the current state of knowledge on the complexity and variability of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H. K. Emanuel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Josh Roberts
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Paul D. Docherty
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Institute of Technical Medicine, Furtwangen University, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Paul D. Docherty,
| | - Helen Lunt
- Diabetes Services, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury, Canterbury, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Physiology, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Knut Möller
- Institute of Technical Medicine, Furtwangen University, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
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24
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Jamieson BB, Moore AM, Lohr DB, Thomas SX, Coolen LM, Lehman MN, Campbell RE, Piet R. Prenatal androgen treatment impairs the suprachiasmatic nucleus arginine-vasopressin to kisspeptin neuron circuit in female mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:951344. [PMID: 35992143 PMCID: PMC9388912 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.951344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with elevated androgen and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and with oligo/anovulation. Evidence indicates that elevated androgens impair sex steroid hormone feedback regulation of pulsatile LH secretion. Hyperandrogenemia in PCOS may also disrupt the preovulatory LH surge. The mechanisms through which this might occur, however, are not fully understood. Kisspeptin (KISS1) neurons of the rostral periventricular area of the third ventricle (RP3V) convey hormonal cues to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. In rodents, the preovulatory surge is triggered by these hormonal cues and coincident timing signals from the central circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Timing signals are relayed to GnRH neurons, in part, via projections from SCN arginine-vasopressin (AVP) neurons to RP3VKISS1 neurons. Because rodent SCN cells express androgen receptors (AR), we hypothesized that these circuits are impaired by elevated androgens in a mouse model of PCOS. In prenatally androgen-treated (PNA) female mice, SCN Ar expression was significantly increased compared to that found in prenatally vehicle-treated mice. A similar trend was seen in the number of Avp-positive SCN cells expressing Ar. In the RP3V, the number of kisspeptin neurons was preserved. Anterograde tract-tracing, however, revealed reduced SCNAVP neuron projections to the RP3V and a significantly lower proportion of RP3VKISS1 neurons with close appositions from SCNAVP fibers. Functional assessments showed, on the other hand, that RP3VKISS1 neuron responses to AVP were maintained in PNA mice. These findings indicate that PNA changes some of the neural circuits that regulate the preovulatory surge. These impairments might contribute to ovulatory dysfunction in PNA mice modeling PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley B. Jamieson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Aleisha M. Moore
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Dayanara B. Lohr
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Simone X. Thomas
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lique M. Coolen
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Michael N. Lehman
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Richard Piet
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard Piet,
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25
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McCarthy EA, Dischino D, Maguire C, Leon S, Talbi R, Cheung E, Schteingart CD, Rivière PJM, Reed SD, Steiner RA, Navarro VM. Inhibiting Kiss1 Neurons With Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonists to Treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Vasomotor Symptoms. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e328-e347. [PMID: 34387319 PMCID: PMC8684497 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Recent evidence suggests that vasomotor symptoms (VMS) or hot flashes in the postmenopausal reproductive state and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in the premenopausal reproductive state emanate from the hyperactivity of Kiss1 neurons in the hypothalamic infundibular/arcuate nucleus (KNDy neurons). OBJECTIVE We demonstrate in 2 murine models simulating menopause and PCOS that a peripherally restricted kappa receptor agonist (PRKA) inhibits hyperactive KNDy neurons (accessible from outside the blood-brain barrier) and impedes their downstream effects. DESIGN Case/control. SETTING Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Mice. INTERVENTIONS Administration of peripherally restricted kappa receptor agonists and frequent blood sampling to determine hormone release and body temperature. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES LH pulse parameters and body temperature. RESULTS First, chronic administration of a PRKA to bilaterally ovariectomized mice with experimentally induced hyperactivity of KNDy neurons reduces the animals' elevated body temperature, mean plasma LH level, and mean peak LH per pulse. Second, chronic administration of a PRKA to a murine model of PCOS, having elevated plasma testosterone levels and irregular ovarian cycles, suppresses circulating levels of LH and testosterone and restores normal ovarian cyclicity. CONCLUSION The inhibition of kisspeptin neuronal activity by activation of kappa receptors shows promise as a novel therapeutic approach to treat both VMS and PCOS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Daniel Dischino
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Caroline Maguire
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Silvia Leon
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rajae Talbi
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Eugene Cheung
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | | | - Susan D Reed
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Robert A Steiner
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Victor M Navarro
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Program in Neuroscience, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Correspondence: Victor M. Navarro PhD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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26
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Watanabe Y, Prescott M, Campbell RE, Jasoni CL. Prenatal androgenization causes expression changes of progesterone and androgen receptor mRNAs in the arcuate nucleus of female mice across development. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e13058. [PMID: 34748236 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to excess androgens is associated with the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In prenatally androgenised (PNA) mice, a model of PCOS, progesterone receptor (PR) protein expression is reduced in arcuate nucleus (ARC) GABA neurons. This suggests a mechanism for PCOS-related impaired steroid hormone feedback and implicates androgen excess with respect to inducing transcriptional repression of the PR-encoding gene Pgr in the ARC. However, the androgen sensitivity of ARC neurons and the relative gene expression of PRs over development and following prenatal androgen exposure remain unknown. Here, we used a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) of microdissected ARC to determine the relative androgen receptor (Ar) and progesterone receptor (Pgr) gene expression in PNA and control mice at five developmental timepoints. In a two-way analysis of variance, none of the genes examined showed expression changes with a statistically significant interaction between treatment and age, although PgrA showed a borderline interaction. For all genes, there was a statistically significant main effect of age on expression levels, reflecting a general increase in expression with increasing age, regardless of treatment. For PgrB and Ar, there was a statistically significant main effect of treatment, indicating a change in expression following PNA (increased for PgrB and decreased for Ar), regardless of age. For PgrA, there was a borderline main effect of treatment, suggesting a possible change in expression following PNA, regardless of age. PgrAB gene expression changes showed no significant main effect of treatment. We additionally examined androgen and progesterone responsiveness specifically in P60 ARC GABA neurons using RNAScope® (Advanced Cell Diagnostics, Inc.) in situ hybridization. This analysis revealed that Pgr and Ar were expressed in the majority of ARC GABA neurons in normal adult females. However, our RNAScope® analysis did not show significant changes in Pgr or Ar expression within ARC GABA neurons following PNA. Lastly, because GABA drive to gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons is increased in PNA, we hypothesised that PNA mice would show increased expression of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), the rate-limiting enzyme in GABA production. However, the RT-qPCR showed that the expression of GAD encoding genes (Gad1 and Gad2) was unchanged in adult PNA mice compared to controls. Our findings indicate that PNA treatment can impact Pgr and Ar mRNA expression in adulthood. This may reflect altered circulating steroid hormones in PNA mice or PNA-induced epigenetic changes in the regulation of Pgr and Ar gene expression in ARC neurons.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Arcuate Nucleus of Hypothalamus/growth & development
- Arcuate Nucleus of Hypothalamus/metabolism
- Embryo, Mammalian
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Growth and Development/genetics
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Pregnancy
- Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/genetics
- Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Androgen/genetics
- Receptors, Androgen/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Virilism/embryology
- Virilism/genetics
- Virilism/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Yugo Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christine L Jasoni
- Department of Anatomy, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Ho EV, Shi C, Cassin J, He MY, Nguyen RD, Ryan GE, Tonsfeldt KJ, Mellon PL. Reproductive Deficits Induced by Prenatal Antimüllerian Hormone Exposure Require Androgen Receptor in Kisspeptin Cells. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6371276. [PMID: 34529765 PMCID: PMC8507963 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive disorder characterized by elevated androgens and antimüllerian hormone (AMH). These hormones remain elevated throughout pregnancy, and potential effects of hormone exposure on offspring from women with PCOS remain largely unexplored. Expanding on recent reports of prenatal AMH exposure in mice, we have fully characterized the reproductive consequences of prenatal AMH (pAMH) exposure throughout the lifespan of first- and second-generation offspring of both sexes. We also sought to elucidate mechanisms underlying pAMH-induced reproductive effects. There is a known reciprocal relationship between AMH and androgens, and in PCOS and PCOS-like animal models, androgen feedback is dysregulated at the level of the hypothalamus. Kisspeptin neurons express androgen receptors and play a critical role in sexual development and function. We therefore hypothesized that pAMH-induced reproductive phenotypes would be mediated by androgen signaling at the level of kisspeptin cells. We tested the pAMH model in kisspeptin-specific androgen receptor knockout (KARKO) mice and found that virtually all pAMH-induced phenotypes assayed are eliminated in KARKO offspring compared to littermate controls. By demonstrating the necessity of androgen receptor in kisspeptin cells to induce pAMH phenotypes, we have advanced understanding of the interactions between AMH and androgens in the context of prenatal exposure, which could have significant implications for children of women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily V Ho
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Chengxian Shi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Cassin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Michelle Y He
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Ryan D Nguyen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Genevieve E Ryan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Karen J Tonsfeldt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, PhD, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, USA.
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28
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Moore AM, Lohr DB, Coolen LM, Lehman MN. Prenatal Androgen Exposure Alters KNDy Neurons and Their Afferent Network in a Model of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqab158. [PMID: 34346492 PMCID: PMC8402932 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrinopathy affecting women worldwide, is characterized by elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse frequency due to the impaired suppression of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release by steroid hormone negative feedback. Although neurons that co-express kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin (KNDy cells) were recently defined as the GnRH/LH pulse generator, little is understood about their role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. We used a prenatal androgen-treated (PNA) mouse model of PCOS to determine whether changes in KNDy neurons or their afferent network underlie altered negative feedback. First, we identified elevated androgen receptor gene expression in KNDy cells of PNA mice, whereas progesterone receptor and dynorphin gene expression was significantly reduced, suggesting elevated androgens in PCOS disrupt progesterone negative feedback via direct actions upon KNDy cells. Second, we discovered GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic input to KNDy neurons was reduced in PNA mice. Retrograde monosynaptic tract-tracing revealed a dramatic reduction in input originates from sexually dimorphic afferents in the preoptic area, anteroventral periventricular nucleus, anterior hypothalamic area and lateral hypothalamus. These results reveal 2 sites of neuronal alterations potentially responsible for defects in negative feedback in PCOS: changes in gene expression within KNDy neurons, and changes in synaptic inputs from steroid hormone-responsive hypothalamic regions. How each of these changes contribute to the neuroendocrine phenotype seen in in PCOS, and the role of specific sets of upstream KNDy afferents in the process, remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleisha M Moore
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
| | - Dayanara B Lohr
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
| | - Lique M Coolen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
| | - Michael N Lehman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
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29
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Kusamoto A, Harada M, Azhary JMK, Kunitomi C, Nose E, Koike H, Xu Z, Urata Y, Kaku T, Takahashi N, Wada-Hiraike O, Hirota Y, Koga K, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Temporal relationship between alterations in the gut microbiome and the development of polycystic ovary syndrome-like phenotypes in prenatally androgenized female mice. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21971. [PMID: 34653284 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101051r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
It has been recently recognized that prenatal androgen exposure is involved in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in adulthood. In addition, the gut microbiome in adult patients and rodents with PCOS differs from that of healthy individuals. Moreover, recent studies have suggested that the gut microbiome may play a causative role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. We wondered whether prenatal androgen exposure induces gut microbial dysbiosis early in life and is associated with the development of PCOS in later life. To test this hypothesis, we studied the development of PCOS-like phenotypes in prenatally androgenized (PNA) female mice and compared the gut microbiome of PNA and control offspring from 4 to 16 weeks of age. PNA offspring showed a reproductive phenotype from 6 weeks and a metabolic phenotype from 12 weeks of age. The α-diversity of the gut microbiome of the PNA group was higher at 8 weeks and lower at 12 and 16 weeks of age, and the β-diversity differed from control at 8 weeks. However, a significant difference in the composition of gut microbiome between the PNA and control groups was already apparent at 4 weeks. Allobaculum and Roseburia were less abundant in PNA offspring, and may therefore be targets for future interventional studies. In conclusion, abnormalities in the gut microbiome appear as early as or even before PCOS-like phenotypes develop in PNA mice. Thus, the gut microbiome in early life is a potential target for the prevention of PCOS in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akari Kusamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jerilee M K Azhary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chisato Kunitomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Nose
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Koike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zixin Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Urata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nozomi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Wada-Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Younesi S, Spencer SJ, Sominsky L. Monocyte perturbation modulates the ovarian response to an immune challenge. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 536:111418. [PMID: 34339824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111418] [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: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Our recent findings indicate that an acute depletion of monocytes has no sustained effects on ovarian follicle health. Here, we utilised a Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic Wistar rat model to transiently deplete monocytes and investigated the impact of an acute immune challenge by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on ovarian follicle health and ovulatory capacity relative to wt once the monocytes had repopulated. Monocyte depletion and repopulation exacerbated the effects of LPS in several domains. As such, monocyte perturbation decreased the numbers of secondary follicles in those challenged with LPS. Monocyte perturbation was also associated with reduced antral follicle numbers and circulating luteinising hormone (LH) levels, as well as potential changes in ovarian sensitivity to LH, exacerbated by LPS. These data suggest that monocyte depletion and repopulation induce a transient suppression of ovulatory capacity in response to a subsequent immune challenge, but this is likely to be restored once the pro-inflammatory environment is resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Younesi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Luba Sominsky
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Barwon Health Laboratory, Barwon Health University Hospital, Geelong, VIC, Australia; Institute for Physical and Mental Health and Clinical Transformation, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Australia.
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31
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Mimouni NEH, Giacobini P. Polycystic ovary syndrome mouse model by prenatal exposure to high anti-Müllerian hormone. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100684. [PMID: 34401772 PMCID: PMC8348292 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.100684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe a protocol that provides the steps required for the generation of a mouse model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by exposing dams to elevated levels of anti-Müllerian hormone during late gestation. This protocol also describes the steps required to assess the PCOS-like equivalents of the Rotterdam PCOS diagnostic criteria in mice. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Tata et al. (2018) and Mimouni et al. (2021). Protocol to induce PCOS traits in offspring using prenatal exposure to high AMH Procedure describing key steps for reliable assessment of PCOS-like reproductive traits Applicable to other established animal models of PCOS
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour El Houda Mimouni
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Postnatal Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Postnatal Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, 59000 Lille, France
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Sati A, Prescott M, Holland S, Jasoni CL, Desroziers E, Campbell RE. Morphological evidence indicates a role for microglia in shaping the PCOS-like brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12999. [PMID: 34216402 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility worldwide, the aetiology of the disorder remains poorly defined. Animal-based evidence highlights the brain as a prime suspect in both the development and maintenance of PCOS. Prenatally androgenised (PNA) models of PCOS exhibit excessive GABAergic wiring associated with PCOS-like reproductive deficits in adulthood, with aberrant brain wiring detected as early as postnatal day (P) 25, prior to disease onset, in the PNA mouse. The mechanisms underlying this aberrant brain wiring remain unknown. Microglia, the immune cells of the brain, are regulators of neuronal wiring across development, mediating both the formation and removal of neuronal inputs. Here, we tested the hypothesis that microglia play a role in the excessive GABAergic wiring that leads to PCOS-like features in the PNA brain. Using specific immunolabelling, microglia number and morphology associated with activation states were analysed in PNA and vehicle-treated controls across developmental timepoints, including embryonic day 17.5, P0, P25 and P60 (n = 7-14 per group), and in two regions of the hypothalamus implicated in fertility regulation. At P0, fewer amoeboid microglia were observed in the rostral preoptic area (rPOA) of PNA mice. However, the greatest changes were observed at P25, with PNA mice exhibiting fewer total microglia, and specifically fewer "sculpting" microglia, in the rPOA. Based on these findings, we assessed microglia-mediated refinement of GABAergic synaptic terminals at two developmental stages of peak synaptic refinement: P7 and P15 (n = 7 per group). PNA mice showed a reduction in the uptake of GABAergic synaptic material at P15. These findings reveal time-specific changes in the microglia population and refinement of GABAergic inputs in a mouse model of PCOS driven by prenatal androgen excess and suggest a role for microglia in shaping the atypical brain wiring associated with the development of PCOS features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Sati
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christine L Jasoni
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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33
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Wu Y, Chanclón B, Micallef P, Stener-Victorin E, Wernstedt Asterholm I, Benrick A. Maternal adiponectin prevents visceral adiposity and adipocyte hypertrophy in prenatal androgenized female mice. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21299. [PMID: 33715227 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002212r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Hyperandrogenism is the main characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome, which affects placental function and fetal growth, and leads to reproductive and metabolic dysfunction in female offspring. Adiponectin acts on the placenta and may exert endocrine effects on the developing fetus. This study aims to investigate if maternal and/or fetal adiponectin can prevent metabolic and reproductive dysfunction in prenatal androgenized (PNA) female offspring. Adiponectin transgenic (APNtg) and wild-type dams received dihydrotestosterone/vehicle injections between gestational days 16.5-18.5 to induce PNA offspring, which were followed for 4 months. Offspring from APNtg dams were smaller than offspring from wild-type dams, independent of genotype. Insulin sensitivity was higher in wild-type mice from APNtg dams compared to wild-types from wild-type dams, and insulin sensitivity correlated with fat mass and adipocyte size. PNA increased visceral fat% and adipocyte size in wild-type offspring from wild-type dams, while wild-type and APNtg offspring from APNtg dams were protected against this effect. APNtg mice had smaller adipocytes than wild-types and this morphology was associated with an increased expression of genes regulating adipogenesis (Ppard, Pparg, Cebpa, and Cebpb) and metabolism (Chrebp and Lpl). Anogenital distance was increased in all PNA-exposed wild-type offspring, but there was no increase in PNA APNtg offspring, suggesting that adiponectin overexpression protects against this effect. In conclusion, elevated adiponectin levels in utero improve insulin sensitivity, reduce body weight and fat mass gain in the adult offspring and protect against PNA-induced visceral adiposity. In conclusion, these data suggest that PNA offspring benefit from prenatal adiponectin supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Wu
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Belén Chanclón
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peter Micallef
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Ingrid Wernstedt Asterholm
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,School of Health Sciences, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
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Elenis E, Desroziers E, Persson S, Sundström Poromaa I, Campbell RE. Early initiation of anti-androgen treatment is associated with increased probability of spontaneous conception leading to childbirth in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a population-based multiregistry cohort study in Sweden. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1427-1435. [PMID: 33454768 PMCID: PMC8058592 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is anti-androgen treatment during adolescence associated with an improved probability of spontaneous conception leading to childbirth in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER Early initiation of anti-androgen treatment is associated with an increased probability of childbirth after spontaneous conception among women with PCOS. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PCOS is the most common endocrinopathy affecting women of reproductive age. Hyperandrogenism and menstrual irregularities associated with PCOS typically emerge in early adolescence. Previous work indicates that diagnosis at an earlier age (<25 years) is associated with higher fecundity compared to a later diagnosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This population-based study utilized five linked Swedish national registries. A total of 15 106 women with PCOS and 73 786 control women were included. Women were followed from when they turned 18 years of age until the end of 2015, leading to a maximum follow-up of 10 years. First childbirth after spontaneous conception was the main outcome, as identified from the Medical Birth Registry. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants included all women born between 1987 and 1996 with a diagnosis of PCOS in the Swedish Patient Registry and randomly selected non-PCOS controls (ratio 1:5). Information on anti-androgenic treatment was retrieved from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Registry with the use of Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) codes. Women with PCOS who were not treated with any anti-androgenic medication were regarded as normo-androgenic, while those treated were regarded as hyperandrogenic. Women were further classified as being mildly hyperandrogenic if they received anti-androgenic combined oral contraceptive (aaCOC) monotherapy, or severely hyperandrogenic if they received other anti-androgens with or without aaCOCs. Early and late users comprised women with PCOS who started anti-androgenic treatment initiated either during adolescence (≤ 18 years of age) or after adolescence (>18 years), respectively. The probability of first childbirth after spontaneous conception was analyzed with the use of Kaplan–Meier hazard curve. The fecundity rate (FR) and 95% confidence interval for the time to first childbirth that were conceived spontaneously were calculated using Cox proportional hazards regression models, with adjustment for obesity, birth year, country of birth and education level. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The probability of childbirth after spontaneous conception in the PCOS group compared to non-PCOS controls was 11% lower among normo-androgenic (adjusted FR 0.68 (95% CI 0.64–0.72)), and 40% lower among hyperandrogenic women with PCOS (adjusted FR 0.53 (95% CI 0.50–0.57)). FR was lowest among severely hyperandrogenic women with PCOS compared to normo-androgenic women with PCOS (adjusted FR 0.60 (95% CI 0.52–0.69)), followed by mildly hyperandrogenic women with PCOS (adjusted FR 0.84 (95% CI 0.77–0.93)). Compared to early anti-androgenic treatment users, late users exhibited a lower probability of childbirth after spontaneous conception (adjusted FR 0.79 (95% CI 0.68–0.92)). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We lacked direct information on the intention to conceive and the androgenic biochemical status of the PCOS participants, applying instead the use of anti-androgenic medications as a proxy of hyperandrogenism. The duration of anti-androgenic treatment utilized is not known, only the age at prescription. Results are not adjusted for BMI, but for obesity diagnosis. The period of follow-up (10 years) was restricted by the need to include only those women for whom data were available on the dispensing of medications during adolescence (born between 1987 and 1996). Women with PCOS who did not seek medical assistance might have been incorrectly classified as not having the disease. Such misclassification would lead to an underestimation of the true association between PCOS and outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Early initiation of anti-androgen treatment is associated with better spontaneous fertility rate. These findings support the need for future interventional randomized prospective studies investigating critical windows of anti-androgen treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand (18-671), the Swedish Society of Medicine and the Uppsala University Hospital. Evangelia Elenis has, over the past year, received lecture fee from Gedeon Richter outside the submitted work. Inger Sundström Poromaa has, over the past 3 years, received compensation as a consultant and lecturer for Bayer Schering Pharma, MSD, Gedeon Richter, Peptonics and Lundbeck A/S. The other authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A
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Affiliation(s)
- E Elenis
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - E Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology & Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Otago University, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - S Persson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - I Sundström Poromaa
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - R E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology & Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Otago University, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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Annie L, Gurusubramanian G, Roy VK. Inhibition of visfatin by FK866 mitigates pathogenesis of cystic ovary in letrozole-induced hyperandrogenised mice. Life Sci 2021; 276:119409. [PMID: 33781825 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common reproductive disorder in the female of reproductive age, which is characterized by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, cystic ovary and infertility. The level of pro-inflammatory adipokine, visfatin is elevated in PCOS conditions in human and animal. In this study, letrozole induced hyperandrogenised PCOS mice model have been used to unravel the effects of visfatin inhibition. The results showed that letrozole induced hyperandrogenisation significantly (p < 0.05) elevates ovarian visfatin concentration from 66.03 ± 1.77 to 112.08 ± 3.7 ng/ml, and visfatin expression to 2.5 fold (p < 0.05) compared to control. Visfatin inhibition in PCOS by FK866 has significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed the secretion of androgens, androstenedione (from 0.329 ± 0.07 to 0.097 ± 0.01 ng/ml) and testosterone levels (from 0.045 ± 0.003 to 0.014 ± 0.0009 ng/ml). Ovarian histology showed that visfatin inhibition suppressed cyst formation and promotes corpus luteum formation. Visfatin inhibition has suppressed apoptosis and increases the expression of BCL2 along with increase in the proliferation (GCNA expression elevated). Visfatin inhibition has increased ovarian glucose content (from 167.05 ± 8.5 to 210 ± 7 mg/dl), along with increase in ovarian GLUT8 expression. In vitro study has also supported the in vivo findings where FK866 treatment significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed testosterone (control-3.84 ± 0.44 ng/ml, 1 nM FK866-2.02 ± 0.048 ng/ml, 10 nM FK866-1.74 ± 0.20 ng/ml) and androstenedione (control-4.68 ± 0.91 ng/ml, 1 nM FK866-3.38 ± 0.27 ng/ml, 10 nM FK866-4.55 ± 0.83 ng/ml) production from PCOS ovary. In conclusion, this is first report, which showed that visfatin inhibition by FK866 in hyperandrogenised mice ameliorates pathogenesis of PCOS. Thus, it may be suggested that visfatin inhibition could have a therapeutic potential in PCOS management along with other intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vikas Kumar Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram 796 004, India.
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36
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Sominsky L, Younesi S, De Luca SN, Loone SM, Quinn KM, Spencer SJ. Ovarian follicles are resistant to monocyte perturbations-implications for ovarian health with immune disruption†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:100-112. [PMID: 33709094 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Monocytes and macrophages are the most abundant immune cell populations in the adult ovary, with well-known roles in ovulation and corpus luteum formation and regression. They are activated and proliferate in response to immune challenge and are suppressed by anti-inflammatory treatments. It is also likely they have a functional role in the healthy ovary in supporting the maturing follicle from the primordial through to the later stages; however, this role has been unexplored until now. Here, we utilized a Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic Wistar rat model that allows a conditional depletion of circulating monocytes, to investigate their role in ovarian follicle health. Our findings show that circulating monocyte depletion leads to a significant depletion of ovarian monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages. Depletion of monocytes was associated with a transient reduction in circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) at 5 days postdepletion. However, the 50-60% ovarian monocyte/macrophage depletion had no effect on ovarian follicle numbers, follicle atresia, or apoptosis, within 5-21 days postdepletion. These data reveal that the healthy adult ovary is remarkably resistant to perturbations of circulating and ovarian monocytes despite acute changes in AMH. These data suggest that short-term anti-inflammatory therapies that transiently impact on circulating monocytes are unlikely to disrupt ovarian follicle health, findings that have significant implications for fertility planning relative to the experience of an immune challenge or immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luba Sominsky
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simin Younesi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simone N De Luca
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sophie M Loone
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kylie M Quinn
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Li H, Guo Y, Zhang G, Deng J, Fischer H, Craig LB, Yu X, Kem DC. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone receptor autoantibodies induce polycystic ovary syndrome-like features in a rat model. Exp Physiol 2021; 106:902-912. [PMID: 33576068 DOI: 10.1113/ep089109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Is there a causal relationship between gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor-activating autoantibodies and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? What is the main finding and its importance? Induction of GnRH receptor-activating autoantibodies in rats resulted in increased luteinizing hormone pulsatility and testosterone concentrations, disrupted oestrous cycles, increased atretic follicles, and activation of insulin signalling in the pituitary and ovary. These changes replicate those seen in humans with PCOS, suggesting that GnRH receptor-activating autoantibodies might be involved in the pathogenesis of PCOS. ABSTRACT Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone receptor-activating autoantibodies (GnRHR-AAb) are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the present study, we examined the impact of GnRHR-AAb on reproductive function in GnRHR-immunized female rats. All immunized rats produced high titres of GnRHR-AAb targeting a dominant epitope located in the central region of the second extracellular loop of the GnRHR. Increased pulsatile luteinizing hormone secretion and testosterone concentrations were found in immunized rats. These rats exhibited disrupted oestrous cycles, increased ovarian follicular atresia, and activation of insulin signalling in the pituitary and ovary, as indicated by increased mRNA expressions of insulin receptor substrate, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and glucose transporter 1. No significant changes in inflammatory cytokines were detected in the ovarian tissue. These features mimic those observed in humans with PCOS. Our findings support the concept that chronic stimulation of the GnRHR by GnRHR-AAb, with an associated increase in pituitary luteinizing hormone secretion and ovarian androgen overproduction, might represent a new aetiological mechanism for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Li
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Yankai Guo
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.,Cardiac Pacing and Electrophysiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Gege Zhang
- Cardiac Pacing and Electrophysiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Jielin Deng
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hayley Fischer
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Xichun Yu
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - David C Kem
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Section and the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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Barsky M, Merkison J, Hosseinzadeh P, Yang L, Bruno-Gaston J, Dunn J, Gibbons W, Blesson CS. Fetal programming of polycystic ovary syndrome: Effects of androgen exposure on prenatal ovarian development. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 207:105830. [PMID: 33515680 PMCID: PMC8056856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common form of anovulatory infertility with a strong hereditary component but no candidate genes have been found. The inheritance pattern may be due to in utero androgen programming on gene expression and mitochondria. Mitochondria are maternally inherited and alterations to mitochondria after fetal androgen exposure may explain one of the mechanisms of fetal programming in PCOS. Our aim was to investigate the role of excessive prenatal androgens in ovarian development by identifying how hyperandrogenemia affects gene expression and mitochondria in neonatal ovary. Pregnant dams were injected with dihydrotestosterone on days 16-18 of pregnancy. Day 0 ovaries were collected for gene expression and mitochondrial studies. RNAseq showed differential gene expressions which were related to mitochondrial dysfunction, fetal gonadal development, oocyte maturation, metabolism, angiogenesis, and PCOS. Top 20 up and downregulated genes were validated with qPCR and Western Blot. Transcriptional pathways involved in folliculogenesis and genes involved in ovarian and mitochondrial function were dysregulated. Further, DHT exposure altered mitochondrial ultrastructure and function by increasing mitochondrial oxygen consumption and decreasing mitochondrial efficiency with increased proton leak within the first day of life. Our data indicates that one path that leads to PCOS begins at birth and is programmed in utero by androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Barsky
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Jamie Merkison
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Pardis Hosseinzadeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Liubin Yang
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Janet Bruno-Gaston
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | | | - William Gibbons
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Chellakkan Selvanesan Blesson
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, 77030, TX, USA.
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Marshall CJ, Prescott M, Campbell RE. Investigating the NPY/AgRP/GABA to GnRH Neuron Circuit in Prenatally Androgenized PCOS-Like Mice. J Endocr Soc 2020; 4:bvaa129. [PMID: 33094210 PMCID: PMC7566551 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common form of anovulatory infertility, is associated with altered signaling within the hormone-sensitive neuronal network that regulates gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, leading to a pathological increase in GnRH secretion. Circuit remodeling is evident between GABAergic neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARN) and GnRH neurons in a murine model of PCOS. One-third of ARN GABA neurons co-express neuropeptide Y (NPY), which has a known yet complex role in regulating GnRH neurons and reproductive function. Here, we investigated whether the NPY-expressing subpopulation (NPYARN) of ARN GABA neurons (GABAARN) is also affected in prenatally androgenized (PNA) PCOS-like NPYARN reporter mice [Agouti-related protein (AgRP)-Cre;τGFP]. PCOS-like mice and controls were generated by exposure to di-hydrotestosterone or vehicle (VEH) in late gestation. τGFP-expressing NPYARN neuron fiber appositions with GnRH neurons and gonadal steroid hormone receptor expression in τGFP-expressing NPYARN neurons were assessed using confocal microscopy. Although GnRH neurons received abundant close contacts from τGFP-expressing NPYARN neuron fibers, the number and density of putative inputs was not affected by prenatal androgen excess. NPYARN neurons did not co-express progesterone receptor or estrogen receptor α in either PNA or VEH mice. However, the proportion of NPYARN neurons co-expressing the androgen receptor was significantly elevated in PNA mice. Therefore, NPYARN neurons are not remodeled by prenatal androgen excess like the wider GABAARN population, indicating GABA-to-GnRH neuron circuit remodeling occurs in a presently unidentified non-NPY/AgRP population of GABAARN neurons. NPYARN neurons do, however, show independent changes in the form of elevated androgen sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Marshall
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Stener-Victorin E, Padmanabhan V, Walters KA, Campbell RE, Benrick A, Giacobini P, Dumesic DA, Abbott DH. Animal Models to Understand the Etiology and Pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa010. [PMID: 32310267 PMCID: PMC7279705 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
More than 1 out of 10 women worldwide are diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the leading cause of female reproductive and metabolic dysfunction. Despite its high prevalence, PCOS and its accompanying morbidities are likely underdiagnosed, averaging > 2 years and 3 physicians before women are diagnosed. Although it has been intensively researched, the underlying cause(s) of PCOS have yet to be defined. In order to understand PCOS pathophysiology, its developmental origins, and how to predict and prevent PCOS onset, there is an urgent need for safe and effective markers and treatments. In this review, we detail which animal models are more suitable for contributing to our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of PCOS. We summarize and highlight advantages and limitations of hormonal or genetic manipulation of animal models, as well as of naturally occurring PCOS-like females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kirsty A Walters
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- School of Health Sciences and Education, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 - LilNCog - Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Daniel A Dumesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, California
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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New insights into anti-Müllerian hormone role in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and neuroendocrine development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 78:1-16. [PMID: 32564094 PMCID: PMC7867527 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Research into the physiological actions of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) has rapidly expanded from its classical role in male sexual differentiation to the regulation of ovarian function, routine clinical use in reproductive health and potential use as a biomarker in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). During the past 10 years, the notion that AMH could act exclusively at gonadal levels has undergone another paradigm shift as several exciting studies reported unforeseen AMH actions throughout the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal (HPG) axis. In this review, we will focus on these findings reporting novel AMH actions across the HPG axis and we will discuss their potential impact and significance to better understand human reproductive disorders characterized by either developmental alterations of neuroendocrine circuits regulating fertility and/or alterations of their function in adult life. Finally, we will summarize recent preclinical studies suggesting that elevated levels of AMH may potentially be a contributing factor to the central pathophysiology of PCOS and other reproductive diseases.
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Daghestani MH, Daghestani MH, Daghistani M, Ambreen K, Almuammar MN, Al Neghery LM, Warsy AS. Relevance of KISS1 gene polymorphisms in susceptibility to polycystic ovary syndrome and its associated endocrine and metabolic disturbances. Br J Biomed Sci 2020; 77:185-190. [DOI: 10.1080/09674845.2020.1726662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- MH Daghestani
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, Female Center for Scientific and Medical Colleges, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Scientific and Medical Colleges, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - MH Daghestani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Umm-Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Daghistani
- Department of Surgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City, National Guard Heath Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - K Ambreen
- Department of Biotechnology, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - MN Almuammar
- Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Female Center for Scientific and Medical Colleges, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - LM Al Neghery
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - AS Warsy
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Scientific and Medical Colleges, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Although the fundamental symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) relate most directly to ovarian dysfunction, central neuroendocrine systems play a prominent role in its pathophysiology. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator resistance to negative feedback contributes to rapid GnRH pulse secretion, which promotes gonadotropin abnormalities that foster ovarian hyperandrogenemia and ovulatory dysfunction. The causes of GnRH neuron dysfunction, however, have remained enigmatic. In this review, we highlight a number of recent preclinical and clinical studies pertinent to the neuroendocrine abnormalities of PCOS, including those that have provided important insights into the relevance of animal models with PCOS-like features, the potential roles of kisspeptin and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic neurons, and the potential role of anti-Müllerian hormone.
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Esparza LA, Schafer D, Ho BS, Thackray VG, Kauffman AS. Hyperactive LH Pulses and Elevated Kisspeptin and NKB Gene Expression in the Arcuate Nucleus of a PCOS Mouse Model. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5730164. [PMID: 32031594 PMCID: PMC7341557 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common reproductive disorder in women, is characterized by hyperandrogenemia, chronic anovulation, cystic ovarian follicles, and luteinizing hormone (LH) hyper-pulsatility, but the pathophysiology isn't completely understood. We recently reported a novel mouse model of PCOS using chronic letrozole (LET; aromatase inhibitor). Letrozole-treated females demonstrate multiple PCOS-like phenotypes, including polycystic ovaries, anovulation, and elevated circulating testosterone and LH, assayed in "one-off" measures. However, due to technical limitations, in vivo LH pulsatile secretion, which is elevated in PCOS women, was not previously studied, nor were the possible changes in reproductive neurons. Here, we used recent technical advances to examine in vivo LH pulse dynamics of freely moving LET female mice versus control and ovariectomized (OVX) mice. We also determined whether neural gene expression of important reproductive regulators such as kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin, is altered in LET females. Compared to controls, LET females exhibited very rapid, elevated in vivo LH pulsatility, with increased pulse frequency, amplitude, and basal levels, similar to PCOS women. Letrozole-treated mice also had markedly elevated Kiss1, Tac2, and Pdyn expression and increased Kiss1 neuronal activation in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus. Notably, the hyperactive LH pulses and increased kisspeptin neuron measures of LET mice were not as elevated as OVX females. Our findings indicate that LET mice, like PCOS women, have markedly elevated LH pulsatility, which likely drives increased androgen secretion. Increased hypothalamic kisspeptin and NKB levels may be fundamental contributors to the hyperactive LH pulse secretion in the LET PCOS-like condition and, perhaps, in PCOS women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes A Esparza
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Danielle Schafer
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Brian S Ho
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Correspondence: Dr. Alexander S. Kauffman, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Leichtag Building, Room 3A-15, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0674, La Jolla, California 92093. E-mail:
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Chappell NR, Zhou B, Schutt AK, Gibbons WE, Blesson CS. Prenatal androgen induced lean PCOS impairs mitochondria and mRNA profiles in oocytes. Endocr Connect 2020; 9:EC-19-0553.R1. [PMID: 32101528 PMCID: PMC7159265 DOI: 10.1530/ec-19-0553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovulatory defect in women. Although most PCOS patients are obese, a subset of PCOS women are lean but show similar risks for adverse fertility outcomes. A lean PCOS mouse model was created using prenatal androgen administration. This developmentally programmed mouse model was used for this study. Our objective was to investigate if mitochondrial structure and functions were compromised in oocytes obtained from lean PCOS mouse. The lean PCOS mouse model was validated by performing glucose tolerance test, HbA1c levels, body weight and estrous cycle analyses. Oocytes were isolated and were used to investigate inner mitochondrial membrane potential, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, ATP production, mtDNA copy number, transcript abundance, histology and electron microscopy. Our results demonstrate that lean PCOS mice has similar weight to that of the controls but exhibited glucose intolerance and hyperinsulinemia along with dysregulated estrus cycle. Analysis of their oocytes show impaired inner mitochondrial membrane function, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased RNA transcript abundance and aberrant ovarian histology. Electron microscopy of the oocytes showed impaired mitochondrial ultrastructure. In conclusion, the lean PCOS mouse model shows a decreased oocyte quality related to impaired mitochondrial ultrastructure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil R Chappell
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Beth Zhou
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Amy K Schutt
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William E Gibbons
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chellakkan S Blesson
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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Dulka EA, Burger LL, Moenter SM. Ovarian Androgens Maintain High GnRH Neuron Firing Rate in Adult Prenatally-Androgenized Female Mice. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5686883. [PMID: 31875912 PMCID: PMC7397485 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Changes in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release frequency from the brain help drive reproductive cycles. In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), persistent high GnRH/luteinizing hormone (LH) frequency disrupts cycles and exacerbates hyperandrogenemia. Adult prenatally-androgenized (PNA) mice exhibit increased GnRH neuron firing rate, elevated ovarian androgens, and disrupted cycles, but before puberty, GnRH neuron activity is reduced in PNA mice compared with controls. We hypothesized that ovarian feedback mediates the age-dependent change in GnRH neuron firing rate in PNA vs control mice. Extracellular recordings of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-identified GnRH neurons were made 5 to 7 days after sham-surgery, ovariectomy (OVX), or, in adults, after OVX plus replacement of sub-male androgen levels with dihydrotestosterone implants (OVX + DHT). In 3-week-old mice, OVX did not affect GnRH neuron firing rate in either group. In adult controls, OVX increased GnRH neuron firing rate, which was further enhanced by DHT. In adult PNA mice, however, OVX decreased GnRH neuron firing rate, and DHT restored firing rate to sham-operated levels. In contrast to the differential effects of ovarian feedback on GnRH neuron firing rate, serum LH increased after OVX in both control and PNA mice and was not altered by DHT. Pituitary gene expression largely reflected changes expected with OVX, although in PNA but not control mice, DHT treatment increased Lhb expression. These results suggest prenatal androgen exposure programs marked changes in GnRH neuron regulation by homeostatic steroid feedback. PNA lowers GnRH neuron activity in low-steroid states (before puberty, OVX), and renders activity in adulthood dependent upon ongoing exposure to elevated ovarian androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden A Dulka
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Laura L Burger
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence: Suzanne M. Moenter, PhD; 7725 Med Sci II; 1137 E Catherine St; Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5622; phone: 734-647-1755;
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Coutinho EA, Prescott M, Hessler S, Marshall CJ, Herbison AE, Campbell RE. Activation of a Classic Hunger Circuit Slows Luteinizing Hormone Pulsatility. Neuroendocrinology 2020; 110:671-687. [PMID: 31630145 DOI: 10.1159/000504225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The central regulation of fertility is carefully coordinated with energy homeostasis, and infertility is frequently the outcome of energy imbalance. Neurons in the hypothalamus expressing neuropeptide Y and agouti-related peptide (NPY/AgRP neurons) are strongly implicated in linking metabolic cues with fertility regulation. OBJECTIVE We aimed here to determine the impact of selectively activating NPY/AgRP neurons, critical regulators of metabolism, on the activity of luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse generation. METHODS We employed a suite of in vivo optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches with serial measurements of LH to determine the impact of selectively activating NPY/AgRP neurons on dynamic LH secretion. In addition, electrophysiological studies in ex vivo brain slices were employed to ascertain the functional impact of activating NPY/AgRP neurons on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. RESULTS Selective activation of NPY/AgRP neurons significantly decreased post-castration LH secretion. This was observed in males and females, as well as in prenatally androgenized females that recapitulate the persistently elevated LH pulse frequency characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Reduced LH pulse frequency was also observed when optogenetic stimulation was restricted to NPY/AgRP fiber projections surrounding GnRH neuron cell bodies in the rostral preoptic area. However, electrophysiological studies in ex vivo brain slices indicated these effects were likely to be indirect. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate the ability of NPY/AgRP neuronal signaling to modulate and, specifically, reduce GnRH/LH pulse generation. The findings suggest a mechanism by which increased activity of this hunger circuit, in response to negative energy balance, mediates impaired fertility in otherwise reproductively fit states, and highlight a potential mechanism to slow LH pulsatility in female infertility disorders, such as PCOS, that are associated with hyperactive LH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia A Coutinho
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hessler
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christopher J Marshall
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand,
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48
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Holland S, Prescott M, Pankhurst M, Campbell RE. The influence of maternal androgen excess on the male reproductive axis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18908. [PMID: 31827225 PMCID: PMC6906411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal androgen excess is suspected to contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. Evidence from preclinical female animal models links maternal androgen excess with the development of PCOS-like features and associated alterations in the neuronal network regulating the reproductive axis. There is some evidence suggesting that maternal androgen excess leads to similar reproductive axis disruptions in men, despite the critical role that androgens play in normal sexual differentiation. Here, the specific impact of maternal androgen excess on the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was investigated using a prenatal androgenization protocol in mice shown to model PCOS-like features in females. Reproductive phenotyping of prenatally androgenised male (PNAM) mice revealed no discernible impact of maternal androgen excess at any level of the reproductive axis. Luteinising hormone pulse characteristics, daily sperm production, plasma testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were not different in the male offspring of dams administered dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during late gestation compared to controls. Androgen receptor expression was quantified through the hypothalamus and identified as unchanged. Confocal imaging of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons revealed that in contrast with prenatally androgenised female mice, PNAM mice exhibited no differences in the density of putative GABAergic innervation compared to controls. These data indicate that a maternal androgen environment capable of inducing reproductive dysfunction in female offspring has no evident impact on the reproductive axis of male littermates in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Pankhurst
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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49
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Coyle C, Campbell RE. Pathological pulses in PCOS. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 498:110561. [PMID: 31461666 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent endocrine disorder associated with hyperandrogenism and anovulation. Although a spectrum disorder, many women with PCOS exhibit elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse frequency and an elevated LH to follicle stimulating hormone ratio. This aberrant pattern of gonadotrophin signalling drives many of the downstream ovarian features of PCOS, including increased androgen synthesis, and indicates neuroendocrine impairments upstream. Decreased responsiveness to gonadal steroid hormone negative feedback in PCOS patients points toward dysfunction within the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuronal network in the brain. Excessive androgen exposure during development or over pubertal onset can recapitulate the neuroendocrine pathology of PCOS in pre-clinical models, and these models have been fundamental in beginning to pick apart the specific central mechanisms involved. This mini-review will briefly describe the pathology of PCOS associated with high frequency GnRH/LH pulses and then highlight what is currently known, and yet to be discovered, about the central mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Coyle
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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50
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Porter DT, Moore AM, Cobern JA, Padmanabhan V, Goodman RL, Coolen LM, Lehman MN. Prenatal Testosterone Exposure Alters GABAergic Synaptic Inputs to GnRH and KNDy Neurons in a Sheep Model of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2529-2542. [PMID: 31415088 PMCID: PMC6779074 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal testosterone (T)-treated female sheep display reproductive deficits similar to women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), including an increase in LH pulse frequency due to actions of the central GnRH pulse generator. In this study, we used multiple-label immunocytochemistry to investigate the possibility of changes in the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system at two key components of the GnRH pulse generator in prenatal T-treated sheep: kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons of the arcuate nucleus, and GnRH neurons in the preoptic area (POA) and mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH). We observed a significant decrease and increase, respectively, in the number of GABAergic synapses onto POA and MBH GnRH neurons in prenatal T-treated ewes; additionally, there was a significant increase in the number of GABAergic inputs onto KNDy neurons. To determine the actions of GABA on GnRH and KNDy neurons, we examined colocalization with the chloride transporters NKCC1 and KCC2, which indicate stimulatory or inhibitory activation of neurons by GABA, respectively. Most GnRH neurons in both POA and MBH colocalized NKCC1 cotransporter whereas none contained the KCC2 cotransporter. Most KNDy neurons colocalized either NKCC1 or KCC2, and 28% of the KNDy population contained NKCC1 alone. Therefore, we suggest that, as in the mouse, GABA in the sheep is stimulatory to GnRH neurons, as well as to a subset of KNDy neurons. Increased numbers of stimulatory GABAergic inputs to both MBH GnRH and KNDy neurons in prenatal T-treated animals may contribute to alterations in steroid feedback control and increased GnRH/LH pulse frequency seen in this animal model of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle T Porter
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Aleisha M Moore
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
| | - Jade A Cobern
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | | | - Robert L Goodman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Lique M Coolen
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
| | - Michael N Lehman
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
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