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Jiang J, Zou Y, Xie C, Yang M, Tong Q, Yuan M, Pei X, Deng S, Tian M, Xiao L, Gong Y. Oxytocin alleviates cognitive and memory impairments by decreasing hippocampal microglial activation and synaptic defects via OXTR/ERK/STAT3 pathway in a mouse model of sepsis-associated encephalopathy. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 114:195-213. [PMID: 37648002 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a diffuse brain dysfunction, characterized by cognitive and memory impairments closely linked to hippocampal dysfunction. Though it is well-known that SAE is a diffuse brain dysfunction with microglial activation, the pathological mechanisms of SAE are not well established and effective clinical interventions are lacking. Oxytocin (OXT) is reported to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective roles. However, the effects of OXT on SAE and the underlying mechanisms are not clear. METHODS SAE was induced in adult C57BL/6J male mice by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) surgery. Exogenous OXT was intranasally applied after surgery. Clinical score, survivor rate, cognitive and memory behaviors, and hippocampal neuronal and non-neuronal functions were evaluated. Cultured microglia challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to investigate the effects of OXT on microglial functions, including inflammatory cytokines release and phagocytosis. The possible intracellular signal pathways involved in the OXT-induced neuroprotection were explored with RNA sequencing. RESULTS Hippocampal OXT level decreases, while the expression of OXT receptor (OXTR) increases around 24 h after CLP surgery. Intranasal OXT application at a proper dose increases mouse survival rate, alleviates cognitive and memory dysfunction, and restores hippocampal synaptic function and neuronal activity via OXTR in the SAE model. Intraperitoneal or local administration of the OXTR antagonist L-368,899 in hippocampal CA1 region inhibited the protective effects of OXT. Moreover, during the early stages of sepsis, hippocampal microglia are activated, while OXT application reduces microglial phagocytosis and the release of inflammatory cytokines, thereby exerting a neuroprotective effect. OXT may improve the SAE outcomes via the OXTR-ERK-STAT3 signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers the dysfunction of the OXT signal in SAE and shows that intranasal OXT application at a proper dose can alleviate SAE outcomes by reducing microglial overactivation, suggests that OXT may be a promising therapeutic approach in managing SAE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junliang Jiang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Yue Zou
- Yunnan Eye Institute & Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province, Yunnan Eye Disease Clinical Medical Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Chuantong Xie
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Miaoxian Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiuping Tong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mimi Yuan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Pei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuixiang Deng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ye Gong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Balestrino R, Losa M, Albano L, Barzaghi LR, Mortini P. Intranasal oxytocin as a treatment for obesity: safety and efficacy. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:295-306. [PMID: 37232186 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2216794] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Known for its effect on labor and lactation and on emotional and social functions, oxytocin has recently emerged as a key modulator of feeding behavior and indeed suggested as a potential treatment for obesity. The potential positive effect of oxytocin on both metabolic and psychological-behavioral complications of hypothalamic lesions makes it a promising tool in the management of these conditions. AREAS COVERED The aim of the present review article is to provide an overview of the mechanism of action and clinical experience of the use of oxytocin in different forms of obesity. EXPERT OPINION Current evidence suggests a potential role of oxytocin in the treatment of obesity with different causes. Several challenges remain: an improved understanding of the physiological regulation, mechanisms of action of oxytocin, and interplay with other endocrine axes is fundamental to clarify its role. Further clinical trials are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of oxytocin for the treatment of different forms of obesity. Understanding the mechanism(s) of action of oxytocin on body weight regulation might also improve our understanding of obesity and reveal possible new therapeutic targets - as well as promoting advances in other fields in which oxytocin might be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Balestrino
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Losa
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Luigi Albano
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Lina R Barzaghi
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Pietro Mortini
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
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Xu JP, Ding XY, Guo SQ, Wang HY, Liu WJ, Jiang HM, Li YD, Fu P, Chen P, Mei YS, Zhang G, Zhou HB, Jing J. Characterization of an Aplysia vasotocin signaling system and actions of posttranslational modifications and individual residues of the ligand on receptor activity. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1132066. [PMID: 37021048 PMCID: PMC10067623 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1132066] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The vasopressin/oxytocin signaling system is present in both protostomes and deuterostomes and plays various physiological roles. Although there were reports for both vasopressin-like peptides and receptors in mollusc Lymnaea and Octopus, no precursor or receptors have been described in mollusc Aplysia. Here, through bioinformatics, molecular and cellular biology, we identified both the precursor and two receptors for Aplysia vasopressin-like peptide, which we named Aplysia vasotocin (apVT). The precursor provides evidence for the exact sequence of apVT, which is identical to conopressin G from cone snail venom, and contains 9 amino acids, with two cysteines at position 1 and 6, similar to nearly all vasopressin-like peptides. Through inositol monophosphate (IP1) accumulation assay, we demonstrated that two of the three putative receptors we cloned from Aplysia cDNA are true receptors for apVT. We named the two receptors as apVTR1 and apVTR2. We then determined the roles of post-translational modifications (PTMs) of apVT, i.e., the disulfide bond between two cysteines and the C-terminal amidation on receptor activity. Both the disulfide bond and amidation were critical for the activation of the two receptors. Cross-activity with conopressin S, annetocin from an annelid, and vertebrate oxytocin showed that although all three ligands can activate both receptors, the potency of these peptides differed depending on their residue variations from apVT. We, therefore, tested the roles of each residue through alanine substitution and found that each substitution could reduce the potency of the peptide analog, and substitution of the residues within the disulfide bond tended to have a larger impact on receptor activity than the substitution of those outside the bond. Moreover, the two receptors had different sensitivities to the PTMs and single residue substitutions. Thus, we have characterized the Aplysia vasotocin signaling system and showed how the PTMs and individual residues in the ligand contributed to receptor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue-Ying Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shi-Qi Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui-Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei-Jia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui-Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ya-Dong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Shuo Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hai-Bo Zhou
- School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Institute for Brain Sciences, Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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Changes in Serum Oxytocin Levels under Physiological and Supraphysiological Gonadal Steroid Hormone Conditions in Women of Reproductive Age: A Preliminary Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245350. [PMID: 36558508 PMCID: PMC9787714 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) affects many behavioral, psychological, and physiological functions, including appetite and body weight regulation. Central and peripheral OT levels are markedly affected by gonadal steroids, especially estrogen, and the anorectic effects of estrogen are partially mediated by OT in rodents. In this study, the relationship between the estrogen milieu and serum OT levels was evaluated in women of reproductive age under physiological (n = 9) and supraphysiological estrogenic conditions (n = 7). Consequently, it was found that serum OT levels were increased in physiological (the ovulatory phase) and supraphysiological (on the day of the human chorionic gonadotropin trigger in an ovarian stimulation cycle) estrogenic conditions, and that serum OT levels were positively correlated with serum estradiol levels. On the other hand, serum OT levels were negatively correlated with serum progesterone levels, and there was no correlation between serum and follicular OT levels. These results suggest that OT levels may be positively and negatively regulated by estrogen and progesterone, respectively, in humans. However, the physiological roles of these actions of gonadal steroids on OT remain unclear.
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Tsingotjidou AS. Oxytocin: A Multi-Functional Biomolecule with Potential Actions in Dysfunctional Conditions; From Animal Studies and Beyond. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1603. [PMID: 36358953 PMCID: PMC9687803 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a hormone secreted from definite neuroendocrine neurons located in specific nuclei in the hypothalamus (mainly from paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei), and its main known function is the contraction of uterine and/or mammary gland cells responsible for parturition and breastfeeding. Among the actions of the peripherally secreted oxytocin is the prevention of different degenerative disorders. These actions have been proven in cell culture and in animal models or have been tested in humans based on hypotheses from previous studies. This review presents the knowledge gained from the previous studies, displays the results from oxytocin intervention and/or treatment and proposes that the well described actions of oxytocin might be connected to other numerous, diverse actions of the biomolecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia S Tsingotjidou
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54 124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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The oxytocin signalling gene pathway contributes to the association between loneliness and cardiometabolic health. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 144:105875. [PMID: 35939863 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence has shown adverse effects of loneliness on cardiometabolic health. The neuromodulator and hormone oxytocin has traditionally been linked with social cognition and behaviour. However, recent implications of the oxytocin system in energy metabolism and the overrepresentation of metabolic issues in psychiatric illness suggests that oxytocin may represent a mechanism bridging mental and somatic traits. To clarify the role of the oxytocin signalling system in the link between cardiometabolic risk factors and loneliness, we calculated the contribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the oxytocin signalling pathway gene-set (154 genes) to the polygenic architecture of loneliness and body mass index (BMI). We investigated the associations of these oxytocin signalling pathway polygenic scores with body composition measured using body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone mineral density (BMD), haematological markers, and blood pressure in a sample of just under half a million adults from the UK Biobank (BMD subsample n = 274,457; body MRI subsample n = 9796). Our analysis revealed significant associations of the oxytocin signalling pathway polygenic score for BMI with abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue, HDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), triglycerides, and BMD. We also found an association between the oxytocin signalling pathway polygenic score for loneliness and apolipoprotein A1, the major protein component of HDL. Altogether, these results provide additional evidence for the oxytocin signalling pathway's role in energy metabolism, lipid homoeostasis, and bone density, and support oxytocin's complex pleiotropic effects.
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Anhê GF, Bordin S. The adaptation of maternal energy metabolism to lactation and its underlying mechanisms. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 553:111697. [PMID: 35690287 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111697] [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: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Maternal energy metabolism undergoes a singular adaptation during lactation that allows for the caloric enrichment of milk. Changes in the mammary gland, changes in the white adipose tissue, brown adipose tissue, liver, skeletal muscles and endocrine pancreas are pivotal for this adaptation. The present review details the landmark studies describing the enzymatic modulation and the endocrine signals behind these metabolic changes. We will also update this perspective with data from recent studies showing transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms that mediate the adaptation of the maternal metabolism to lactation. The present text will also bring experimental and observational data that describe the long-term consequences that short periods of lactation impose to maternal metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Forato Anhê
- Department of Translational Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.
| | - Silvana Bordin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Changes in Endogenous Oxytocin Levels and the Effects of Exogenous Oxytocin Administration on Body Weight Changes and Food Intake in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Model Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158207. [PMID: 35897783 PMCID: PMC9330807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently seen in females of reproductive age and is associated with metabolic disorders that are exacerbated by obesity. Although body weight reduction programs via diet and lifestyle changes are recommended for modifying reproductive and metabolic phenotypes, the drop-out rate is high. Thus, an efficacious, safe, and continuable treatment method is needed. Recent studies have shown that oxytocin (OT) reduces body weight gain and food intake, and promotes lipolysis in some mammals, including humans (especially obese individuals), without any adverse effects. In the present study, we evaluated the changes in endogenous OT levels, and the effects of acute and chronic OT administration on body weight changes, food intake, and fat mass using novel dihydrotestosterone-induced PCOS model rats. We found that the serum OT level was lower in PCOS model rats than in control rats, whereas the hypothalamic OT mRNA expression level did not differ between them. Acute intraperitoneal administration of OT during the dark phase reduced the body weight gain and food intake in PCOS model rats, but these effects were not observed in control rats. In contrast, chronic administration of OT decreased the food intake in both the PCOS model rats and control rats. These findings indicate that OT may be a candidate medicine that is efficacious, safe, and continuable for treating obese PCOS patients.
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Colleluori G, Galli C, Severi I, Perugini J, Giordano A. Early Life Stress, Brain Development, and Obesity Risk: Is Oxytocin the Missing Link? Cells 2022; 11:cells11040623. [PMID: 35203274 PMCID: PMC8870435 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity disease results from a dysfunctional modulation of the energy balance whose master regulator is the central nervous system. The neural circuitries involved in such function complete their maturation during early postnatal periods, when the brain is highly plastic and profoundly influenced by the environment. This phenomenon is considered as an evolutionary strategy, whereby metabolic functions are adjusted to environmental cues, such as food availability and maternal care. In this timeframe, adverse stimuli may program the body metabolism to maximize energy storage abilities to cope with hostile conditions. Consistently, the prevalence of obesity is higher among individuals who experienced early life stress (ELS). Oxytocin, a hypothalamic neurohormone, regulates the energy balance and modulates social, emotional, and eating behaviors, exerting both central and peripheral actions. Oxytocin closely cooperates with leptin in regulating energy homeostasis. Both oxytocin and leptin impact the neurodevelopment during critical periods and are affected by ELS and obesity. In this review article, we report evidence from the literature describing the effect of postnatal ELS (specifically, disorganized/inconstant maternal care) on the vulnerability to obesity with a focus on the role of oxytocin. We emphasize the existing research gaps and highlight promising directions worthy of exploration. Based on the available data, alterations in the oxytocin system may in part mediate the ELS-induced susceptibility to obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy; (G.C.); (C.G.); (I.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Chiara Galli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy; (G.C.); (C.G.); (I.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Ilenia Severi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy; (G.C.); (C.G.); (I.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Jessica Perugini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy; (G.C.); (C.G.); (I.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy; (G.C.); (C.G.); (I.S.); (J.P.)
- Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University-United Hospitals, 60020 Ancona, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-071-220-6086; Fax: +39-071-220-6087
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Andersen DB, Holst JJ. Peptides in the regulation of glucagon secretion. Peptides 2022; 148:170683. [PMID: 34748791 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucose homeostasis is maintained by the glucoregulatory hormones, glucagon, insulin and somatostatin, secreted from the islets of Langerhans. Glucagon is the body's most important anti-hypoglycemic hormone, mobilizing glucose from glycogen stores in the liver in response to fasting, thus maintaining plasma glucose levels within healthy limits. Glucagon secretion is regulated by both circulating nutrients, hormones and neuronal inputs. Hormones that may regulate glucagon secretion include locally produced insulin and somatostatin, but also urocortin-3, amylin and pancreatic polypeptide, and from outside the pancreas glucagon-like peptide-1 and 2, peptide tyrosine tyrosine and oxyntomodulin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, neurotensin and ghrelin, as well as the hypothalamic hormones arginine-vasopressin and oxytocin, and calcitonin from the thyroid. Each of these hormones have distinct effects, ranging from regulating blood glucose, to regulating appetite, stomach emptying rate and intestinal motility, which makes them interesting targets for treating metabolic diseases. Awareness regarding the potential effects of the hormones on glucagon secretion is important since secretory abnormalities could manifest as hyperglycemia or even lethal hypoglycemia. Here, we review the effects of each individual hormone on glucagon secretion, their interplay, and how treatments aimed at modulating the plasma levels of these hormones may also influence glucagon secretion and glycemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Andersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Abstract
Oxytocin and oxytocin receptors are synthesized in the periphery where paracrine/autocrine actions have been described alongside endocrine actions effected by central release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary. In the female reproductive system, classical actions of uterine contraction and milk ejection from mammary glands are accompanied by actions in the ovaries where roles in steroidogenesis, follicle recruitment and ovulation have been described. Steroidogenesis, contractile activity, and gamete health are similarly affected by oxytocin in the male reproductive tract. In the cardiovascular system, a local oxytocinergic system appears to play an important cardio-protective role. This role is likely associated with emerging evidence that peripheral oxytocin is an important hormone in the endocrinology of glucose homeostasis due to its actions in adipose, the pancreas, and the largely ignored oxytocinergic systems of the adrenal glands and liver. Gene polymorphisms are shown to be associated with a number of reported traits, not least factors associated with metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Assinder
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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Niu J, Tong J, Blevins JE. Oxytocin as an Anti-obesity Treatment. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:743546. [PMID: 34720864 PMCID: PMC8549820 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.743546] [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: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a growing health concern, as it increases risk for heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cancer, COVID-19 related hospitalizations and mortality. However, current weight loss therapies are often associated with psychiatric or cardiovascular side effects or poor tolerability that limit their long-term use. The hypothalamic neuropeptide, oxytocin (OT), mediates a wide range of physiologic actions, which include reproductive behavior, formation of prosocial behaviors and control of body weight. We and others have shown that OT circumvents leptin resistance and elicits weight loss in diet-induced obese rodents and non-human primates by reducing both food intake and increasing energy expenditure (EE). Chronic intranasal OT also elicits promising effects on weight loss in obese humans. This review evaluates the potential use of OT as a therapeutic strategy to treat obesity in rodents, non-human primates, and humans, and identifies potential mechanisms that mediate this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- JingJing Niu
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development, Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jenny Tong
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development, Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - James E Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development, Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
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13
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Worth AA, Luckman SM. Do oxytocin neurones affect feeding? J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e13035. [PMID: 34495565 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There has been a long history of research on the effects of oxytocin on feeding behaviour. The classic-held view is that the neurohormone is anorexigenic at least in rodents, although the data for humans are not so clear cut. Likewise, a physiological role for oxytocin is disputed. Thus, although pharmacological, anatomical and physiological data suggest oxytocin may have a function in satiety signalling, this view is not supported by the latest research using the genetic recording and manipulation of oxytocin neurones. Here, we avoid a discussion of the pharmacological effects of oxytocin and examine evidence, from both sides of the argument, concerning whether the endogenous oxytocin system has a role in the regulation of normal feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy A Worth
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Simon M Luckman
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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14
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Ferrero S, Amri EZ, Roux CH. Relationship between Oxytocin and Osteoarthritis: Hope or Despair? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111784. [PMID: 34769215 PMCID: PMC8584067 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is involved in breastfeeding and childbirth and appears to play a role in regulating the bone matrix. OT is synthesized in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus and is released in response to numerous stimuli. It also appears to be produced by osteoblasts in the bone marrow, acting as a paracrine–autocrine regulator of bone formation. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of the whole joint. Different tissues involved in OA express OT receptors (OTRs), such as chondrocytes and osteoblasts. This hormone, which levels are reduced in patients with OA, appears to have a stimulatory effect on chondrogenesis. OT involvement in bone biology could occur at both the osteoblast and chondrocyte levels. The relationships between metabolic syndrome, body weight, and OA are well documented, and the possible effects of OT on different parameters of metabolic syndrome, such as diabetes and body weight, are important. In addition, the effects of OT on adipokines and inflammation are also discussed, especially since recent data have shown that low-grade inflammation is also associated with OA. Furthermore, OT also appears to mediate endogenous analgesia in animal and human studies. These observations provide support for the possible interest of OT in OA and its potential therapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Ferrero
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Pasteur 2 CHU, 06000 Nice, France;
| | - Ez-Zoubir Amri
- Inserm, CNRS, iBV, Université Côte d’Azur, 06000 Nice, France;
| | - Christian Hubert Roux
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Pasteur 2 CHU, 06000 Nice, France;
- Inserm, CNRS, iBV, Université Côte d’Azur, 06000 Nice, France;
- Correspondence:
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15
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Anekonda VT, Thompson BW, Ho JM, Roberts ZS, Edwards MM, Nguyen HK, Dodson AD, Wolden-Hanson T, Chukri DW, Herbertson AJ, Graham JL, Havel PJ, Wietecha TA, O’Brien KD, Blevins JE. Hindbrain Administration of Oxytocin Reduces Food Intake, Weight Gain and Activates Catecholamine Neurons in the Hindbrain Nucleus of the Solitary Tract in Rats. J Clin Med 2021; 10:5078. [PMID: 34768597 PMCID: PMC8584350 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10215078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing studies show that CNS oxytocin (OT) signaling is important in the control of energy balance, but it is unclear which neurons may contribute to these effects. Our goals were to examine (1) the dose-response effects of acute OT administration into the third (3V; forebrain) and fourth (4V; hindbrain) ventricles to assess sensitivity to OT in forebrain and hindbrain sites, (2) the extent to which chronic 4V administration of OT reduces weight gain associated with the progression of diet-induced obesity, and (3) whether nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) catecholamine neurons are downstream targets of 4V OT. Initially, we examined the dose-response effects of 3V and 4V OT (0.04, 0.2, 1, or 5 μg). 3V and 4V OT (5 μg) suppressed 0.5-h food intake by 71.7 ± 6.0% and 60 ± 12.9%, respectively. 4V OT (0.04, 0.2, 1 μg) reduced food intake by 30.9 ± 12.9, 42.1 ± 9.4, and 56.4 ± 9.0%, respectively, whereas 3V administration of OT (1 μg) was only effective at reducing 0.5-h food intake by 38.3 ± 10.9%. We subsequently found that chronic 4V OT infusion, as with chronic 3V infusion, reduced body weight gain (specific to fat mass) and tended to reduce plasma leptin in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats, in part, through a reduction in energy intake. Lastly, we determined that 4V OT increased the number of hindbrain caudal NTS Fos (+) neurons (156 ± 25) relative to vehicle (12 ± 3). The 4V OT also induced Fos in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH; marker of catecholamine neurons) (+) neurons (25 ± 7%) relative to vehicle (0.8 ± 0.3%). Collectively, these findings support the hypothesis that OT within the hindbrain is effective at reducing food intake, weight gain, and adiposity and that NTS catecholamine neurons in addition to non-catecholaminergic neurons are downstream targets of CNS OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwanath T. Anekonda
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Benjamin W. Thompson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Jacqueline M. Ho
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
| | - Zachary S. Roberts
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Melise M. Edwards
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Ha K. Nguyen
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Andrew D. Dodson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Tami Wolden-Hanson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Daniel W. Chukri
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Adam J. Herbertson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
| | - James L. Graham
- Department of Nutrition and Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (J.L.G.); (P.J.H.)
| | - Peter J. Havel
- Department of Nutrition and Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (J.L.G.); (P.J.H.)
| | - Tomasz A. Wietecha
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
| | - Kevin D. O’Brien
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - James E. Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; (V.T.A.); (B.W.T.); (J.M.H.); (Z.S.R.); (M.M.E.); (H.K.N.); (A.D.D.); (T.W.-H.); (D.W.C.); (A.J.H.)
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
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16
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Elfers CT, Blevins JE, Lawson EA, Pittner R, Silva D, Kiselyov A, Roth CL. Robust Reductions of Body Weight and Food Intake by an Oxytocin Analog in Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:726411. [PMID: 34646154 PMCID: PMC8502973 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.726411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Oxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that participates in the network of appetite regulation. Recently the oxytocin signaling pathway has emerged as an attractive target for treating obesity. However, the short half-life limits its development as a clinical therapeutic. Here we provide results from testing a long-lasting, potent and selective oxytocin analog ASK1476 on its efficacy to reduce food intake and body weight in comparison to the native oxytocin peptide. Methods: ASK1476 features two specific amino acid substitutions in positions 7 and 8 combined with a short polyethylene glycol spacer. Short time dose escalation experiments testing increasing doses of 3 days each were performed in diet-induced overweight (DIO) male rats assessing effects on body weight as well as changes in food intake. Furthermore, DIO rats were tested for changes in body weight, food intake, temperature, and locomotor activity over 28 days of treatment (oxytocin, ASK1476, or vehicle). Results: In dose escalation experiments, significant reductions in food intake relative to baseline were detected beginning with doses of 15 nmol/kg ASK1476 (−15.2 ± 2.3 kcal/d, p = 0.0017) and 20 nmol/kg oxytocin (−11.2.9 ± 2.4 kcal/d, p = 0.0106) with corresponding significant changes in body weight (ASK1476: −5.2 ± 0.8 g, p = 0.0016; oxytocin: −2.6 ± 0.7 g, p = 0.0326). In long-term experiments, there was no difference on body weight change between 120 nmol/kg/d ASK1476 (−71.4 ± 34.2 g, p = 0.039) and 600 nmol/kg/d oxytocin (−91.8 ± 32.2 g, p = 0.035) relative to vehicle (706.9 ± 28.3 g), indicating a stronger dose response for ASK1476. Likewise, both ASK1476 and oxytocin at these doses resulted in similar reductions in 28-day cumulative food intake (ASK1476: −562.7 ± 115.0 kcal, p = 0.0001; oxytocin: −557.1 ± 101.3 kcal, p = 0.0001) relative to vehicle treatment (2716 ± 75.4 kcal), while no effects were detected on locomotor activity or body temperature. Conclusion: This study provides proof-of-concept data demonstrating an oxytocin analog with extended in vivo stability and improved potency to reduce food intake and body weight in DIO animals which could mark a new avenue in anti-obesity drug interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clinton T Elfers
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - James E Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - David Silva
- OXT Therapeutics, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | | | - Christian L Roth
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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17
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Friuli M, Eramo B, Valenza M, Scuderi C, Provensi G, Romano A. Targeting the Oxytocinergic System: A Possible Pharmacological Strategy for the Treatment of Inflammation Occurring in Different Chronic Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10250. [PMID: 34638587 PMCID: PMC8508899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Unresolved inflammation represents a central feature of different human pathologies including neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. The epidemiologic relevance of such disorders justifies the increasing interest in further understanding the mechanisms underpinning the inflammatory process occurring in such chronic diseases to provide potential novel pharmacological approaches. The most common and effective therapies for controlling inflammation are glucocorticoids; however, a variety of other molecules have been demonstrated to have an anti-inflammatory potential, including neuropeptides. In recent years, the oxytocinergic system has seen an explosion of scientific studies, demonstrating its potential to contribute to a variety of physiological processes including inflammation. Therefore, the aim of the present review was to understand the role of oxytocin in the modulation of inflammation occurring in different chronic diseases. The criterion we used to select the diseases was based on the emerging literature showing a putative involvement of the oxytocinergic system in inflammatory processes in a variety of pathologies including neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and obesity. The evidence reviewed here supports a beneficial role of oxytocin in the control of both peripheral and central inflammatory response happening in the aforementioned pathologies. Although future studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanistic details underlying such regulation, this review supports the idea that the modulation of the endogenous oxytocinergic system might represent a new potential pharmacological approach for the treatment of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Friuli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (B.E.); (M.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Barbara Eramo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (B.E.); (M.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Marta Valenza
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (B.E.); (M.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Caterina Scuderi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (B.E.); (M.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Gustavo Provensi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology of Toxicology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Adele Romano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (B.E.); (M.V.); (C.S.)
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18
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Edwards MM, Nguyen HK, Dodson AD, Herbertson AJ, Wietecha TA, Wolden-Hanson T, Graham JL, Honeycutt MK, Slattery JD, O’Brien KD, Havel PJ, Blevins JE. Effects of Combined Oxytocin and Beta-3 Receptor Agonist (CL 316243) Treatment on Body Weight and Adiposity in Male Diet-Induced Obese Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:725912. [PMID: 34566687 PMCID: PMC8457402 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.725912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated that oxytocin (OT) reduces body weight in diet-induced obese (DIO) rodents through reductions in energy intake and increases in energy expenditure. We recently demonstrated that hindbrain [fourth ventricular (4V)] administration of OT evokes weight loss and elevates interscapular brown adipose tissue temperature (T IBAT ) in DIO rats. What remains unclear is whether OT can be used as an adjunct with other drugs that directly target beta-3 receptors in IBAT to promote BAT thermogenesis and reduce body weight in DIO rats. We hypothesized that the combined treatment of OT and the beta-3 agonist, CL 316243, would produce an additive effect to decrease body weight and adiposity in DIO rats by reducing energy intake and increasing BAT thermogenesis. We assessed the effects of 4V infusions of OT (16 nmol/day) or vehicle (VEH) in combination with daily intraperitoneal injections of CL 316243 (0.5 mg/kg) or VEH on food intake, T IBAT , body weight and body composition. OT and CL 316243 alone reduced body weight by 7.8 ± 1.3% (P < 0.05) and 9.1 ± 2.1% (P < 0.05), respectively, but the combined treatment produced more pronounced weight loss (15.5 ± 1.2%; P < 0.05) than either treatment alone. These effects were associated with decreased adiposity, adipocyte size, energy intake and increased uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) content in epididymal white adipose tissue (EWAT) (P < 0.05). In addition, CL 316243 alone (P < 0.05) and in combination with OT (P < 0.05) elevated T IBAT and IBAT UCP-1 content and IBAT thermogenic gene expression. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the combined treatment of OT and the beta-3 agonist, CL 316243, produces an additive effect to decrease body weight. The findings from the current study suggest that the effects of the combined treatment on energy intake, fat mass, adipocyte size and browning of EWAT were not additive and appear to be driven, in part, by transient changes in energy intake in response to OT or CL 316243 alone as well as CL 316243-elicited reduction of fat mass and adipocyte size and induction of browning of EWAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melise M. Edwards
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ha K. Nguyen
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Andrew D. Dodson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Adam J. Herbertson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tomasz A. Wietecha
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tami Wolden-Hanson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - James L. Graham
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mackenzie K. Honeycutt
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jared D. Slattery
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Kevin D. O’Brien
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Peter J. Havel
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - James E. Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
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19
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Jeong JK, Dow SA, Young CN. Sensory Circumventricular Organs, Neuroendocrine Control, and Metabolic Regulation. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11080494. [PMID: 34436435 PMCID: PMC8402088 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system is critical in metabolic regulation, and accumulating evidence points to a distributed network of brain regions involved in energy homeostasis. This is accomplished, in part, by integrating peripheral and central metabolic information and subsequently modulating neuroendocrine outputs through the paraventricular and supraoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus. However, these hypothalamic nuclei are generally protected by a blood-brain-barrier limiting their ability to directly sense circulating metabolic signals—pointing to possible involvement of upstream brain nuclei. In this regard, sensory circumventricular organs (CVOs), brain sites traditionally recognized in thirst/fluid and cardiovascular regulation, are emerging as potential sites through which circulating metabolic substances influence neuroendocrine control. The sensory CVOs, including the subfornical organ, organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, and area postrema, are located outside the blood-brain-barrier, possess cellular machinery to sense the metabolic interior milieu, and establish complex neural networks to hypothalamic neuroendocrine nuclei. Here, evidence for a potential role of sensory CVO-hypothalamic neuroendocrine networks in energy homeostasis is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Colin N. Young
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-202-994-9575; Fax: +1-202-994-287
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20
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Kerem L, Lawson EA. The Effects of Oxytocin on Appetite Regulation, Food Intake and Metabolism in Humans. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7737. [PMID: 34299356 PMCID: PMC8306733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic peptide oxytocin and its receptor are involved in a range of physiological processes, including parturition, lactation, cell growth, wound healing, and social behavior. More recently, increasing evidence has established the effects of oxytocin on food intake, energy expenditure, and peripheral metabolism. In this review, we provide a comprehensive description of the central oxytocinergic system in which oxytocin acts to shape eating behavior and metabolism. Next, we discuss the peripheral beneficial effects oxytocin exerts on key metabolic organs, including suppression of visceral adipose tissue inflammation, skeletal muscle regeneration, and bone tissue mineralization. A brief summary of oxytocin actions learned from animal models is presented, showing that weight loss induced by chronic oxytocin treatment is related not only to its anorexigenic effects, but also to the resulting increase in energy expenditure and lipolysis. Following an in-depth discussion on the technical challenges related to endogenous oxytocin measurements in humans, we synthesize data related to the association between endogenous oxytocin levels, weight status, metabolic syndrome, and bone health. We then review clinical trials showing that in humans, acute oxytocin administration reduces food intake, attenuates fMRI activation of food motivation brain areas, and increases activation of self-control brain regions. Further strengthening the role of oxytocin in appetite regulation, we review conditions of hypothalamic insult and certain genetic pathologies associated with oxytocin depletion that present with hyperphagia, extreme weight gain, and poor metabolic profile. Intranasal oxytocin is currently being evaluated in human clinical trials to learn whether oxytocin-based therapeutics can be used to treat obesity and its associated sequela. At the end of this review, we address the fundamental challenges that remain in translating this line of research to clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Kerem
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
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21
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Tokui T, Kawakita T, Yanagihara R, Kamada S, Minato S, Takeda A, Imaizumi J, Yamamoto Y, Yoshida K, Kato T, Irahara M, Iwasa T. Effects of gonadal status and the estrogen milieu on hypothalamic oxytocin gene expression and serum oxytocin levels in female rats. Horm Behav 2021; 133:105005. [PMID: 34116458 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) and its receptor (OTR) play various roles in the central and peripheral regulation of appetite and body weight. Previously, we have shown that the administration of OT markedly decreased appetite and body weight gain in ovariectomized (OVX) obese rats. In addition, recent studies have shown that the endogenous OT system is also affected by endogenous or exogenous estrogen. In this study, we showed that ovariectomy decreased rats' hypothalamic OT/OTR mRNA and serum OT levels, but did not affect their visceral fat OTR mRNA levels. The chronic administration of estradiol (E2) abrogated these ovariectomy-induced changes; i.e., it increased the rats' hypothalamic OT/OTR mRNA and serum OT levels, and may be associated with reductions in food intake and body weight gain. In addition, acute E2 administration increased the rats' hypothalamic OTR mRNA and serum OT levels, but did not affect their hypothalamic OT mRNA levels. Taken together, these results suggest that endogenous OT and/or OTR expression might be positively regulated by E2 and that the suppressive effects of E2 on appetite and body weight gain might be mediated, at least in part, by the OT system. Thus, we consider that OT might be a target hormone to pursue subsequent interventions of menopause for menopause-induced metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takako Tokui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Takako Kawakita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Rie Yanagihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Saki Minato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Asuka Takeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Junki Imaizumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yuri Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kanako Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
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22
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Camerino C. Oxytocin Involvement in Body Composition Unveils the True Identity of Oxytocin. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126383. [PMID: 34203705 PMCID: PMC8232088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The origin of the Oxytocin/Vasopressin system dates back about 600 million years. Oxytocin (Oxt) together with Vasopressin (VP) regulate a diversity of physiological functions that are important for osmoregulation, reproduction, metabolism, and social behavior. Oxt/VP-like peptides have been identified in several invertebrate species and they are functionally related across the entire animal kingdom. Functional conservation enables future exploitation of invertebrate models to study Oxt’s functions not related to pregnancy and the basic mechanisms of central Oxt/VP signaling. Specifically, Oxt is well known for its effects on uteri contractility and milk ejection as well as on metabolism and energy homeostasis. Moreover, the striking evidence that Oxt is linked to energy regulation is that Oxt- and Oxytocin receptor (Oxtr)-deficient mice show late onset obesity. Interestingly Oxt−/− or Oxtr−/− mice develop weight gain without increasing food intake, suggesting that a lack of Oxt reduce metabolic rate. Oxt is expressed in a diversity of skeletal muscle phenotypes and regulates thermogenesis and bone mass. Oxt may increases skeletal muscle tonicity and/or increases body temperature. In this review, the author compared the three most recent theories on the effects of Oxt on body composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Camerino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (Section of Pharmacology), School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, P.za G. Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy;
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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23
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Hong SM, Ko JK, Moon JJ, Kim YR. Oxytocin: A Potential Therapeutic for Obesity. J Obes Metab Syndr 2021; 30:115-123. [PMID: 33820878 PMCID: PMC8277591 DOI: 10.7570/jomes20098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide involved in the homeostasis of food consumption and energy; it affects hedonic eating. Studies in obese or binge-eating patients reported the hypophagic effect of oxytocin, which reduced caloric intake after administration. Several studies have demonstrated the effect of oxytocin’s increasing energy intake, decreasing food consumption, and contributing to weight loss. Oxytocin’s effects on food intake and metabolism suggest its therapeutic potential for treating obesity and binge eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Min Hong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Seoul Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong-Kyung Ko
- Institute of Eating Disorders and Mental Health, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung-Joon Moon
- Department of Psychiatry, Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University, Busan, Korea
| | - Youl-Ri Kim
- Institute of Eating Disorders and Mental Health, Inje University, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
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24
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Edwards MM, Nguyen HK, Herbertson AJ, Dodson AD, Wietecha T, Wolden-Hanson T, Graham JL, O'Brien KD, Havel PJ, Blevins JE. Chronic hindbrain administration of oxytocin elicits weight loss in male diet-induced obese mice. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 320:R471-R487. [PMID: 33470901 PMCID: PMC8238148 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00294.2020] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies indicate that oxytocin (OT) administration reduces body weight in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese (DIO) rodents through both reductions in food intake and increases in energy expenditure. We recently demonstrated that chronic hindbrain [fourth ventricular (4V)] infusions of OT evoke weight loss in DIO rats. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that chronic 4V OT would elicit weight loss in DIO mice. We assessed the effects of 4V infusions of OT (16 nmol/day) or vehicle over 28 days on body weight, food intake, and body composition. OT reduced body weight by approximately 4.5% ± 1.4% in DIO mice relative to OT pretreatment body weight (P < 0.05). These effects were associated with reduced adiposity and adipocyte size [inguinal white adipose tissue (IWAT)] (P < 0.05) and attributed, in part, to reduced energy intake (P < 0.05) at a dose that did not increase kaolin intake (P = NS). OT tended to increase uncoupling protein-1 expression in IWAT (0.05 < P < 0.1) suggesting that OT stimulates browning of WAT. To assess OT-elicited changes in brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis, we examined the effects of 4V OT on interscapular BAT temperature (TIBAT). 4V OT (1 µg) elevated TIBAT at 0.75 (P = 0.08), 1, and 1.25 h (P < 0.05) postinjection; a higher dose (5 µg) elevated TIBAT at 0.75-, 1-, 1.25-, 1.5-, 1.75- (P < 0.05), and 2-h (0.05 < P < 0.1) postinjection. Together, these findings support the hypothesis that chronic hindbrain OT treatment evokes sustained weight loss in DIO mice by reducing energy intake and increasing BAT thermogenesis at a dose that is not associated with evidence of visceral illness.
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MESH Headings
- Adipocytes, Brown/drug effects
- Adipocytes, Brown/metabolism
- Adipocytes, Brown/pathology
- Adipocytes, White/drug effects
- Adipocytes, White/metabolism
- Adipocytes, White/pathology
- Adiposity/drug effects
- Animals
- Anti-Obesity Agents/administration & dosage
- Diet, High-Fat
- Disease Models, Animal
- Eating/drug effects
- Energy Intake/drug effects
- Infusions, Intraventricular
- Leptin/blood
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Obesity/drug therapy
- Obesity/metabolism
- Obesity/pathology
- Obesity/physiopathology
- Oxytocin/administration & dosage
- Rhombencephalon/drug effects
- Rhombencephalon/physiopathology
- Thermogenesis/drug effects
- Uncoupling Protein 1/metabolism
- Weight Loss/drug effects
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Melise M Edwards
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ha K Nguyen
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Adam J Herbertson
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Andrew D Dodson
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tomasz Wietecha
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tami Wolden-Hanson
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - James L Graham
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Kevin D O'Brien
- UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Peter J Havel
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - James E Blevins
- Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
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25
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Erdenebayar O, Kato T, Kawakita T, Kasai K, Kadota Y, Yoshida K, Iwasa T, Irahara M. Effects of peripheral oxytocin administration on body weight, food intake, adipocytes, and biochemical parameters in peri- and postmenopausal female rats. Endocr J 2021; 68:7-16. [PMID: 32879161 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej19-0586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that the administration of oxytocin has beneficial effects on the regulation of body weight, food intake, and metabolic functions, especially in obese individuals. Obesity is common in women after the menopause and drives many components of metabolic syndrome. Weight gain in menopausal women has been frequently reported. Although obesity and associated metabolic disorders are frequently observed in peri- and postmenopausal women, there are few medical interventions for these conditions. In this study, we evaluated the effects of chronic oxytocin administration on appetite, body weight, and fat mass in peri- and postmenopausal female rats. Sixteen naturally premenopausal or menopausal rats were intraperitoneally injected with oxytocin (1,000 μg/day) for 12 days. The daily changes in their body weight and food intake were measured at the same time as the oxytocin and vehicle injections. Intraperitoneally administering oxytocin for 12 days significantly reduced food intake, body weight, and visceral adipocyte size. In addition, oxytocin administration caused reductions in serum triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, while it did not disturb hepatic or renal functions or locomotor activity. This is the first study to show the effects of oxytocin on the metabolic and feeding functions of peri- and postmenopausal female rats. Oxytocin might be a useful treatment for metabolic disorders caused by the menopause or aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otgontsetseg Erdenebayar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takako Kawakita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kana Kasai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuri Kadota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kanako Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
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26
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Abstract
The hypothalamic peptide oxytocin has been increasingly recognized as a hormone and neurotransmitter with important effects on energy intake, metabolism, and body weight and is under investigation as a potential novel therapeutic agent for obesity. The main neurons producing oxytocin and expressing the oxytocin receptor are strategically located in brain areas known to be critically involved in homeostatic energy balance as well as hedonic and motivational aspects of eating behavior. In this chapter, we will review the central and peripheral physiology of oxytocin and the interaction of oxytocin with key hormones and neural circuitries that affect food intake and metabolism. Next, we will synthesize the available data on endogenous oxytocin levels related to caloric intake, body weight, and metabolic status. We will then review the effects of exogenous oxytocin administration on eating behavior, body weight, and metabolism in humans, including in healthy individuals as well as specific populations with suspected perturbations involving oxytocin pathways. Finally, we will address the promise and fundamental challenges of translating this line of research to clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Kerem
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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27
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Mohan S, McCloskey AG, McKillop AM, Flatt PR, Irwin N, Moffett RC. Development and characterisation of novel, enzymatically stable oxytocin analogues with beneficial antidiabetic effects in high fat fed mice. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2020; 1865:129811. [PMID: 33309687 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2020.129811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence to support beneficial effects of the hypothalamic synthesised hormone, oxytocin, on metabolism. However, the biological half-life of oxytocin is short and receptor activation profile unspecific. METHODS We have characterised peptide-based oxytocin analogues with structural modifications aimed at improving half-life and receptor specificity. Following extensive in vitro and in vivo characterisation, antidiabetic efficacy of lead peptides was examined in high fat fed (HFF) mice. RESULTS Following assessment of stability against enzymatic degradation, insulin secretory activity, receptor activation profile and in vivo bioactivity, analogues 2 N (Ac-C ˂YIQNC >PLG-NH2) and D7R ((d-C)YIQNCYLG-NH2) were selected as lead peptides. Twice daily injection of either peptide for 22 days reduced body weight, energy intake, plasma glucose and insulin and pancreatic glucagon content in HFF mice. In addition, both peptides reduced total- and LDL-cholesterol, with concomitant elevations of HDL-cholesterol, and D7R also decreased triglyceride levels. The two oxytocin analogues improved glucose tolerance and insulin responses to intraperitoneal, and particularly oral, glucose challenge on day 22. Both oxytocin analogues enhanced insulin sensitivity, reduced HOMA-IR and increased bone mineral density. In terms of pancreatic islet histology, D7R reversed high fat feeding induced elevations of islet and beta cell areas, which was associated with reductions in beta cell apoptosis. Islet insulin secretory responsiveness was improved by 2 N, and especially D7R, treatment. CONCLUSION Novel, enzymatically stable oxytocin analogues exert beneficial antidiabetic effects in HFF mice. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE These observations emphasise the, yet untapped, therapeutic potential of long-acting oxytocin-based agents for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Mohan
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Andrew G McCloskey
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Aine M McKillop
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Peter R Flatt
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Nigel Irwin
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK.
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28
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Kimura T, Pydi SP, Pham J, Tanaka N. Metabolic Functions of G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Hepatocytes-Potential Applications for Diabetes and NAFLD. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10101445. [PMID: 33076386 PMCID: PMC7602561 DOI: 10.3390/biom10101445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are cell surface receptors that mediate the function of extracellular ligands. Understanding how GPCRs work at the molecular level has important therapeutic implications, as 30–40% of the drugs currently in clinical use mediate therapeutic effects by acting on GPCRs. Like many other cell types, liver function is regulated by GPCRs. More than 50 different GPCRs are predicted to be expressed in the mouse liver. However, knowledge of how GPCRs regulate liver metabolism is limited. A better understanding of the metabolic role of GPCRs in hepatocytes, the dominant constituent cells of the liver, could lead to the development of novel drugs that are clinically useful for the treatment of various metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this review, we describe the functions of multiple GPCRs expressed in hepatocytes and their role in metabolic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takefumi Kimura
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA; (S.P.P.); (J.P.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +1-301-594-6980
| | - Sai P. Pydi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA; (S.P.P.); (J.P.)
| | - Jonathan Pham
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA; (S.P.P.); (J.P.)
| | - Naoki Tanaka
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan;
- Research Center for Social Systems, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
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29
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Yuan J, Zhang R, Wu R, Gu Y, Lu Y. The effects of oxytocin to rectify metabolic dysfunction in obese mice are associated with increased thermogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 514:110903. [PMID: 32531419 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin, a protein hormone mainly produced by hypothalamus, has been shown to repress body weight gain in obese animals, in part, by reducing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. Till now, activation of brown fat tissue (BAT) thermogenesis and white adipose tissue (WAT) browning are considered as two main factors for oxytocin-induced energy expenditure. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not understood well. Here, we observed that oxytocin expression in the hypothalamus and its receptor in adipose tissues were induced by cold exposure in mice. In differentiated adipocytes, oxytocin stimulated brown adipocyte specific gene expression by inducing PRDM16. In high fat diet induced obese mice, oxytocin delivery by osmotic minipumps increased body core temperature and decreased body weight gain. Glucose and insulin tolerance were improved by oxytocin. Hyperinsulinemia and fatty liver were ameliorated in oxytocin-treated animals. Moreover, oxytocin treatment induced thermogenic gene expressions in BAT, inguinal WAT (iWAT), and skeletal muscle. Taken together, our findings revealed a new aspect of oxytocin, i.e. oxytocin induces iWAT browning and stimulates thermogenesis in BAT, iWAT and skeletal muscle, through which oxytocin promotes thermogenesis and thus combats obesity and metabolic dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiangjiayuan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210011, China; Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Rongping Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Runze Wu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Yunjuan Gu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China.
| | - Yibing Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiangjiayuan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210011, China.
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30
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Szeto A, Cecati M, Ahmed R, McCabe PM, Mendez AJ. Oxytocin reduces adipose tissue inflammation in obese mice. Lipids Health Dis 2020; 19:188. [PMID: 32819381 PMCID: PMC7441653 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-020-01364-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity and adipose tissue expansion is characterized by a chronic state of systemic inflammation that contributes to disease. The neuropeptide, oxytocin, working through its receptor has been shown to attenuate inflammation in sepsis, wound healing, and cardiovascular disease. The current study examined the effects of chronic oxytocin infusions on adipose tissue inflammation in a murine model of obesity, the leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mouse. METHODS The effect of obesity on oxytocin receptor protein and mRNA expression in adipose tissue was evaluated by Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction. Mice were implanted with osmotic minipumps filled with oxytocin or vehicle for 8 weeks. At study endpoint adipose tissue inflammation was assessed by measurement of cytokine and adipokine mRNA tissue levels, adipocyte size and macrophage infiltration via histopathology, and plasma levels of adiponectin and serum amyloid A as markers of systemic inflammation. RESULTS The expression of adipose tissue oxytocin receptor was increased in obese db/db mice compared to lean controls. In adipose tissue oxytocin infusion reduced adipocyte size, macrophage infiltration, IL-6 and TNFα mRNA expression, and increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory adipokine, adiponectin. In plasma, oxytocin infusion reduced the level of serum amyloid A, a marker of systemic inflammation, and increased circulating adiponectin. CONCLUSIONS In an animal model of obesity and diabetes chronic oxytocin treatment led to a reduction in visceral adipose tissue inflammation and plasma markers of systemic inflammation, which may play a role in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Szeto
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, PO Box 248185, Coral Gables, FL, 33124, USA
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Medicine and Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1450 N.W. 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Raisa Ahmed
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, PO Box 248185, Coral Gables, FL, 33124, USA
| | - Philip M McCabe
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, PO Box 248185, Coral Gables, FL, 33124, USA
| | - Armando J Mendez
- Department of Medicine and Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1450 N.W. 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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31
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Tan SY, Lei X, Little HC, Rodriguez S, Sarver DC, Cao X, Wong GW. CTRP12 ablation differentially affects energy expenditure, body weight, and insulin sensitivity in male and female mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2020; 319:E146-E162. [PMID: 32421370 PMCID: PMC7468785 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00533.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Secreted hormones facilitate tissue cross talk to maintain energy balance. We previously described C1q/TNF-related protein 12 (CTRP12) as a novel metabolic hormone. Gain-of-function and partial-deficiency mouse models have highlighted important roles for this fat-derived adipokine in modulating systemic metabolism. Whether CTRP12 is essential and required for metabolic homeostasis is unknown. We show here that homozygous deletion of Ctrp12 gene results in sexually dimorphic phenotypes. Under basal conditions, complete loss of CTRP12 had little impact on male mice, whereas it decreased body weight (driven by reduced lean mass and liver weight) and improved insulin sensitivity in female mice. When challenged with a high-fat diet, Ctrp12 knockout (KO) male mice had decreased energy expenditure, increased weight gain and adiposity, elevated serum TNFα level, and reduced insulin sensitivity. In contrast, female KO mice had reduced weight gain and liver weight. The expression of lipid synthesis and catabolism genes, as well as profibrotic, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and oxidative stress genes were largely unaffected in the adipose tissue of Ctrp12 KO male mice. Despite greater adiposity and insulin resistance, Ctrp12 KO male mice fed an obesogenic diet had lower circulating triglyceride and free fatty acid levels. In contrast, lipid profiles of the leaner female KO mice were not different from those of WT controls. These data suggest that CTRP12 contributes to whole body energy metabolism in genotype-, diet-, and sex-dependent manners, underscoring complex gene-environment interactions influencing metabolic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Y Tan
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Xia Lei
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hannah C Little
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Susana Rodriguez
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Dylan C Sarver
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Xi Cao
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - G William Wong
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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32
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Maejima Y, Horita S, Otsuka A, Hidema S, Nishimori K, Shimomura K. Oral oxytocin delivery with proton pump inhibitor pretreatment decreases food intake. Peptides 2020; 128:170312. [PMID: 32298773 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (Oxt) is considered as a potential agent to treat multiple neuropsychiatric disorders, obesity and metabolic syndrome. Although the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear, nasal administration is considered to be a potential way to deliver Oxt into blood vessels. The development of an easier, more stable and efficient way is expected. A recent study demonstrated that orally administered Oxt can be transmitted into blood if it is prevented from degradation in stomach and reaches the intestinal tract. In this study, we pretreated mice with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), omeprazole (20 mg/kg), and administered capsulized Oxt (0.25 mg), so that the Oxt can be prevented from degradation by pepsin due to the low pH in stomach and reach the intestinal tract. Functionally, these mice showed a similar decrease in food intake to those who underwent intraperitoneal administration. We also confirmed that this method dramatically increased plasma Oxt levels and the expression of neural activation marker c-Fos protein in the paraventricular and suprachiasmatic nucleus. Our study showed that by pretreating mice with PPI, Oxt in a gelatin-coated capsule can prevent Oxt from degradation by pepsin in stomach, and reach the bloodstream in an effective concentration. These results indicate that our method is a promising oral delivery of Oxt and should be investigated further for other peptide agents based on peripheral injection or nasal administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Maejima
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 960-1295, Fukushima, Japan.
| | - Shoichiro Horita
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 960-1295, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Ayano Otsuka
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University Sendai-shi, 981-8555, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shizu Hidema
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University Sendai-shi, 981-8555, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University Sendai-shi, 981-8555, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kenju Shimomura
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 960-1295, Fukushima, Japan
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33
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Romano A, Friuli M, Cifani C, Gaetani S. Oxytocin in the neural control of eating: At the crossroad between homeostatic and non-homeostatic signals. Neuropharmacology 2020; 171:108082. [PMID: 32259527 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The understanding of the biological substrates regulating feeding behavior is relevant to address the health problems related to food overconsumption. Several studies have expanded the conventional view of the homeostatic regulation of body weight mainly orchestrated by the hypothalamus, to include also the non-homeostatic control of appetite. Such processes include food reward and are mainly coordinated by the activation of the central mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway. The identification of endogenous systems acting as a bridge between homoeostatic and non-homeostatic pathways might represent a significant step toward the development of drugs for the treatment of aberrant eating patterns. Oxytocin is a hypothalamic hormone that is directly secreted into the brain and reaches the blood circulation through the neurohypophysis. Oxytocin regulates a variety of physiologic functions, including eating and metabolism. In the last years both preclinical and clinical studies well characterized oxytocin for its effects in reducing food intake and body weight. In the present review we summarize the role played by oxytocin in the control of both homeostatic and non-homeostatic eating, within cognitive, metabolic and reward mechanisms, to mostly highlight its potential therapeutic effects as a new pharmacological approach for the development of drugs for eating disorders. We conclude that the central oxytocinergic system is possibly one of the mechanisms that coordinate energy balance at the crossroads between homeostatic and non-homeostatic mechanisms. This concept should foster studies aimed at exploring the possible exploitation of oxytocin in the treatment of aberrant eating patterns. This article is part of the special issue on Neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Romano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marzia Friuli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy
| | - Silvana Gaetani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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34
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McCormack SE, Blevins JE, Lawson EA. Metabolic Effects of Oxytocin. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5658523. [PMID: 31803919 PMCID: PMC7012298 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnz012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that oxytocin (OXT), a hypothalamic hormone well recognized for its effects in inducing parturition and lactation, has important metabolic effects in both sexes. The purpose of this review is to summarize the physiologic effects of OXT on metabolism and to explore its therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders. In model systems, OXT promotes weight loss by decreasing energy intake. Pair-feeding studies suggest that OXT-induced weight loss may also be partly due to increased energy expenditure and/or lipolysis. In humans, OXT appears to modulate both homeostatic and reward-driven food intake, although the observed response depends on nutrient milieu (eg, obese vs. nonobese), clinical characteristics (eg, sex), and experimental paradigm. In animal models, OXT is anabolic to muscle and bone, which is consistent with OXT-induced weight loss occurring primarily via fat loss. In some human observational studies, circulating OXT concentrations are also positively associated with lean mass and bone mineral density. The impact of exogenous OXT on human obesity is the focus of ongoing investigation. Future randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in humans should include rigorous, standardized, and detailed assessments of adherence, adverse effects, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and efficacy in the diverse populations that may benefit from OXT, in particular those in whom hypothalamic OXT signaling may be abnormal or impaired (eg, individuals with Sim1 deficiency, Prader-Willi syndrome, or craniopharyngioma). Future studies will also have the opportunity to investigate the characteristics of new OXT mimetic peptides and the obligation to consider long-term effects, especially when OXT is given to children and adolescents. (Endocrine Reviews XX: XX - XX, 2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana E McCormack
- Neuroendocrine Center, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James E Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, Washington.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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35
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Lawson EA, Olszewski PK, Weller A, Blevins JE. The role of oxytocin in regulation of appetitive behaviour, body weight and glucose homeostasis. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12805. [PMID: 31657509 PMCID: PMC7186135 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Obesity and its associated complications have reached epidemic proportions in the USA and also worldwide, highlighting the need for new and more effective treatments. Although the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is well recognised for its peripheral effects on reproductive behaviour, the release of OXT from somatodendrites and axonal terminals within the central nervous system (CNS) is also implicated in the control of energy balance. In this review, we summarise historical data highlighting the effects of exogenous OXT as a short-term regulator of food intake in a context-specific manner and the receptor populations that may mediate these effects. We also describe what is known about the physiological role of endogenous OXT in the control of energy balance and whether serum and brain levels of OXT relate to obesity on a consistent basis across animal models and humans with obesity. We describe recent data on the effectiveness of chronic CNS administration of OXT to decrease food intake and weight gain or to elicit weight loss in diet-induced obese (DIO) and genetically obese mice and rats. Of clinical importance is the finding that chronic central and peripheral OXT treatments both evoke weight loss in obese animal models with impaired leptin signalling at doses that are not associated with visceral illness, tachyphylaxis or adverse cardiovascular effects. Moreover, these results have been largely recapitulated following chronic s.c. or intranasal treatment in DIO non-human primates (rhesus monkeys) and obese humans, respectively. We also identify plausible mechanisms that contribute to the effects of OXT on body weight and glucose homeostasis in rodents, non-human primates and humans. We conclude by describing the ongoing challenges that remain before OXT-based therapeutics can be used as a long-term strategy to treat obesity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pawel K Olszewski
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - James E Blevins
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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36
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Iwasa T, Matsuzaki T, Mayila Y, Kawakita T, Yanagihara R, Irahara M. The effects of chronic oxytocin administration on body weight and food intake in DHT-induced PCOS model rats. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:55-60. [PMID: 31220962 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1631276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is commonly associated with metabolic disorders, which are exacerbated by obesity. Recent studies have revealed that oxytocin contributes to metabolic, appetite, and body weight regulation. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of chronic administration of oxytocin on body weight, food intake, and fat mass in a dihydrotestosterone-induced rat model of PCOS. Body weight, body weight change, and relative cumulative food intake were significantly lower in the oxytocin-treated PCOS rats than in the vehicle-treated control PCOS rats. Similarly, visceral adipocyte size was significantly smaller in the oxytocin-treated PCOS rats than in the vehicle-treated control PCOS rats. On the other hand, the numbers of cystic follicles in the ovary did not differ between the two groups. The chronic administration of oxytocin did not affect the rats' serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, or lactate dehydrogenase levels, indicating that it does not have adverse effects on hepatic function. These findings suggest that oxytocin could be a candidate drug for preventing the onset of obesity-related metabolic disorders in PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshiya Matsuzaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yiliyasi Mayila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takako Kawakita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Rie Yanagihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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37
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Pflimlin E, Zhou Z, Amso Z, Fu Q, Lee C, Muppiddi A, Joseph SB, Nguyen-Tran V, Shen W. Engineering a Potent, Long-Acting, and Periphery-Restricted Oxytocin Receptor Agonist with Anorexigenic and Body Weight Reducing Effects. J Med Chem 2019; 63:382-390. [PMID: 31850759 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The effects of oxytocin on food intake and body weight reduction have been demonstrated in both animal models and human clinical studies. Despite being efficacious, oxytocin is enzymatically unstable and thus considered to be unsuitable for long-term use in patients with obesity. Herein, a series of oxytocin derivatives were engineered through conjugation with fatty acid moieties that are known to exhibit high binding affinities to serum albumin. One analog (OT-12) in particular was shown to be a potent full agonist at the oxytocin receptor (OTR) in vitro with good selectivity and long half-life (24 h) in mice. Furthermore, OT-12 is peripherally restricted, with very limited brain exposure (1/190 of the plasma level). In a diet-induced obesity mouse model, daily subcutaneous administration of OT-12 exhibited more potent anorexigenic and body weight reducing effects than carbetocin. Thus, our results suggest that the long-acting, peripherally restricted OTR agonist may offer potential therapeutic benefits for obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Pflimlin
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Zhihong Zhou
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Zaid Amso
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Qiangwei Fu
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Candy Lee
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Avinash Muppiddi
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Sean B Joseph
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Vân Nguyen-Tran
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
| | - Weijun Shen
- Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , United States
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38
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Kerem L, Hadjikhani N, Holsen L, Lawson EA, Plessow F. Oxytocin reduces the functional connectivity between brain regions involved in eating behavior in men with overweight and obesity. Int J Obes (Lond) 2019; 44:980-989. [PMID: 31740723 PMCID: PMC7192759 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-019-0489-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Oxytocin (OXT), shown to decrease food intake in animal models and men, is a promising novel treatment for obesity. We have shown that in men with overweight and obesity, intranasal (IN) OXT reduced the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) blood oxygenation level-dependent signal in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), the origin of the mesolimbic dopaminergic reward system, in response to high-calorie food vs. non-food images. Here, we employed functional connectivity fMRI analysis, which measures the synchrony in activation between neural systems in a context-dependent manner. We hypothesized that OXT would attenuate the functional connectivity of the VTA with key food motivation brain areas only when participants viewed high-calorie food stimuli. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of 24 IU IN OXT included 10 men with overweight or obesity (mean±SEM BMI: 28.9±0.8 kg/m2). Following drug administration, subjects completed an fMRI food motivation paradigm including images of high and low-calorie foods, non-food objects, and fixation stimuli. A psychophysiological interaction analysis was performed with the VTA as seed region. Results: Following OXT administration, compared with placebo, participants exhibited significantly attenuated functional connectivity between the VTA and the insula, oral somatosensory cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, operculum, and middle temporal gyrus in response to viewing high-calorie foods (Z≥3.1, cluster-corrected, p<0.05). There was no difference in functional connectivity between VTA and these brain areas when comparing OXT and placebo for low-calorie food, non-food, and fixation images. Conclusion: In men with overweight and obesity, OXT attenuates the functional connectivity between the VTA and food motivation brain regions in response to high-calorie visual food images. These findings could partially explain the observed anorexigenic effect of OXT, providing insight into the mechanism through which OXT ameliorates food cue-induced reward anticipation in patients with obesity. Additional studies are ongoing to further delineate the anorexigenic effect of OXT in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Kerem
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nouchine Hadjikhani
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Center, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Laura Holsen
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Franziska Plessow
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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39
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Liu CM, Davis EA, Suarez AN, Wood RI, Noble EE, Kanoski SE. Sex Differences and Estrous Influences on Oxytocin Control of Food Intake. Neuroscience 2019; 447:63-73. [PMID: 31738883 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Central oxytocin potently reduces food intake and is being pursued as a clinical treatment for obesity. While sexually dimorphic effects have been described for the effects of oxytocin on several behavioral outcomes, the role of sex in central oxytocin modulation of feeding behavior is poorly understood. Here we investigated the effects of sex, estrous cycle stage, and female sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone) on central oxytocin-mediated reduction of food intake in rats. Results show that while intracerebroventricular (ICV) oxytocin potently reduces chow intake in both male and female rats, these effects were more pronounced in males than in females. We next examined whether estrous cycle stage affects oxytocin's food intake-reducing effects in females. Results show that ICV oxytocin administration significantly reduces food intake during all estrous cycle stages except proestrous, suggesting that female sex hormones may modulate the feeding effects of oxytocin. Indeed, additional results reveal that estrogen, but not progesterone replacement, in ovariectomized rats abolishes oxytocin-mediated reductions in chow intake. Lastly, oxytocin receptor mRNA (Oxtr) quantification (via quantitative PCR) and anatomical localization (via fluorescent in situ hybridization) in previously established sites of action for oxytocin control of food intake revealed comparable Oxtr expression between male and female rats, suggesting that observed sex and estrous differences may be based on variations in ligand availability and/or binding. Overall, these data show that estrogen reduces the effectiveness of central oxytocin to inhibit food intake, suggesting that sex hormones and estrous cycle should be considered in clinical investigations of oxytocin for obesity treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa M Liu
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Andrea N Suarez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ruth I Wood
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Emily E Noble
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Foods and Nutrition, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States.
| | - Scott E Kanoski
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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40
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Weingarten MFJ, Scholz M, Wohland T, Horn K, Stumvoll M, Kovacs P, Tönjes A. Circulating Oxytocin Is Genetically Determined and Associated With Obesity and Impaired Glucose Tolerance. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:5621-5632. [PMID: 31361301 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-00643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Despite the emerging evidence on the role of oxytocin (OXT) in metabolic diseases, there is a lack of well-powered studies addressing the relationship of circulating OXT with obesity and diabetes. OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN Here, we measured OXT in a study cohort (n = 721; 396 women, 325 men; mean age ± SD, 47.7 ± 15.2 years) with subphenotypes related to obesity, including anthropometric traits such as body mass index [BMI (mean ± SD), 26.8 ± 4.6 kg/m2], waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; 0.88 ± 0.09), blood parameters (glucose, 5.32 ± 0.50 mmol/L; insulin, 5.3 ± 3.3 µU/mL), and oral glucose tolerance test to clarify the association with OXT. We also tested in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) whether the interindividual variation in OXT serum levels might be explained by genetic variation. RESULTS The OXT concentration was increased in subjects with elevated BMI and positively correlated with WHR, waist circumference, and triglyceride levels. The OXT concentration in subjects with BMI <25 kg/m2 was significantly lower (n = 256; 78.6 pg/mL) than in subjects with a BMI between 25 and 30 kg/m2 (n = 314; 98.5 pg/mL, P = 6 × 10-6) and with BMI >30 kg/m2 (n = 137; 106.4 pg/mL, P = 8 × 10-6). OXT levels were also positively correlated with plasma glucose and insulin and were elevated in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (P = 4.6 × 10-3). Heritability of OXT was estimated at 12.8%. In a GWAS, two hits in linkage disequilibrium close (19 kb) to the OXT reached genome-wide significant association (top-hit rs12625893, P = 3.1 × 10-8, explained variance 3%). CONCLUSIONS Our data show that OXT is genetically affected by a variant near OXT and is associated with obesity and impaired glucose tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markus Scholz
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics, and Epidemiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- LIFE Research Center, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tobias Wohland
- IFB Adiposity Diseases, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katrin Horn
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics, and Epidemiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- LIFE Research Center, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michael Stumvoll
- Medical Department III-Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Kovacs
- Medical Department III-Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
- IFB Adiposity Diseases, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anke Tönjes
- Medical Department III-Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
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41
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Skinner JA, Garg ML, Dayas CV, Burrows TL. Is weight status associated with peripheral levels of oxytocin? A pilot study in healthy women. Physiol Behav 2019; 212:112684. [PMID: 31629767 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin is best known for its role during parturition and the milk-let down reflex. Recent evidence identifies a role for oxytocin in eating behaviour. After oxytocin administration, caloric intake is reduced with stronger inhibitory effects in individuals with obesity. Whether the experience of visual food cues affects secretion or circulating levels of oxytocin is unknown. This pilot study had three aims: 1) to measure fasting appetite hormones with a focus on plasma oxytocin concentrations; 2) determine whether healthy vs. hyperpalatable visual food cues differentially altered plasma oxytocin; and 3) assess whether appetite hormone responses to healthy vs. hyperpalatable food images depended on weight or food addiction status. Eighteen healthy women of varying weight status, with/without self-reported food addiction were recruited. Study participants completed a set of standardised questionnaires, including Yale Food Addiction Scale, and attended a one-off experimental session. Blood was collected before and after viewing two sets of food images (healthy and hyperpalatable foods). Participants were randomly allocated in a crossover design to view either healthy images or hyperpalatable foods first. A positive correlation between BMI and plasma oxytocin was found (r2 = 0.32, p = 0.021) at baseline. Oxytocin levels were higher, and cholecystokinin levels lower, in food addicted (n = 6) vs. non-food addicted females (p = 0.015 and p<0.001, respectively). There were no significant changes (p>0.05) in plasma oxytocin levels in response to either healthy or hyperpalatable food images. Given that endogenous oxytocin administration tends to suppress eating behaviour; these data indicate that oxytocin receptor desensitization or oxytocin resistance may be important factors in the pathogenesis of obesity and food addiction. However, further studies in larger samples are needed to determine if peripheral oxytocin is responsive to visual food cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle A Skinner
- Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Manohar L Garg
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Christopher V Dayas
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Tracy L Burrows
- Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The neurohypophysial endocrine system is identified here as a potential target for therapeutic interventions toward improving obesity-related metabolic dysfunction, given its coinciding pleiotropic effects on psychological, neurological and metabolic systems that are disrupted in obesity. RECENT FINDINGS Copeptin, the C-terminal portion of the precursor of arginine-vasopressin, is positively associated with body mass index and risk of type 2 diabetes. Plasma oxytocin is decreased in obesity and several other conditions of abnormal glucose homeostasis. Recent data also show non-classical tissues, such as myocytes, hepatocytes and β-cells, exhibit responses to oxytocin and vasopressin receptor binding that may contribute to alterations in metabolic function. The modulation of anorexigenic and orexigenic pathways appears to be the dominant mechanism underlying the effects of oxytocin and vasopressin on body weight regulation; however, there are apparent limitations associated with their use in direct pharmacological applications. A clearer picture of their wider physiological effects is needed before either system can be considered for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports-Section of Obesity Research, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 26, 1958 Frederiksberg C; Building 2-85, Room H134, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Snider B, Geiser A, Yu XP, Beebe EC, Willency JA, Qing K, Guo L, Lu J, Wang X, Yang Q, Efanov A, Adams AC, Coskun T, Emmerson PJ, Alsina-Fernandez J, Ai M. Long-Acting and Selective Oxytocin Peptide Analogs Show Antidiabetic and Antiobesity Effects in Male Mice. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1423-1444. [PMID: 31286109 PMCID: PMC6608564 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) has been shown to suppress appetite, induce weight loss, and improve glycemic control and lipid metabolism in several species, including humans, monkeys, and rodents. However, OXT's short half-life in circulation and lack of receptor selectivity limit its application and efficacy. In this study, we report an OXT peptide analog (OXTGly) that is potent and selective for the OXT receptor (OXTR). OXT, but not OXTGly, activated vasopressin receptors in vitro and acutely increased blood pressure in vivo when administered IP. OXT suppressed food intake in mice, whereas OXTGly had a moderate effect on food intake when administered IP or intracerebroventricularly. Both OXT (IP) and OXTGly (IP) improved glycemic control in glucose tolerance tests. Additionally, both OXT (IP) and OXTGly (IP) stimulated insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1, and glucagon secretion in mice. We generated lipid-conjugated OXT (acylated-OXT) and OXTGly (acylated-OXTGly) and demonstrated that these molecules have significantly extended half-lives in vivo. Compared with OXT, 2-week treatment of diet-induced obese mice with acylated-OXT [subcutaneous(ly) (SC)] resulted in enhanced body weight reduction, an improved lipid profile, and gene expression changes consistent with increased lipolysis and decreased gluconeogenesis. Treatment with acylated-OXTGly (SC) also resulted in a statistically significant weight loss, albeit to a lesser degree compared with acylated-OXT treatment. In conclusion, we demonstrate that selective activation of the OXTR pathway results in both acute and chronic metabolic benefits, whereas potential activation of vasopressin receptors by nonselective OXT analogs causes physiological stress that contributes to additional weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandy Snider
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Andrea Geiser
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Xiao-peng Yu
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Emily Cathleen Beebe
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jill Amanda Willency
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Keyun Qing
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Lili Guo
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jianliang Lu
- Medicinal Chemistry, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Qian Yang
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Alexander Efanov
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Andrew Charles Adams
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Tamer Coskun
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Paul Joseph Emmerson
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jorge Alsina-Fernandez
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Minrong Ai
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Reiss AB, Glass DS, Lam E, Glass AD, De Leon J, Kasselman LJ. Oxytocin: Potential to mitigate cardiovascular risk. Peptides 2019; 117:170089. [PMID: 31112739 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, despite multiple treatment options. In addition to elevated lipid levels, oxidative stress and inflammation are key factors driving atherogenesis and CVD. New strategies are required to mitigate risk and most urgently for statin-intolerant patients. The neuropeptide hormone oxytocin, synthesized in the brain hypothalamus, is worthy of consideration as a CVD ancillary treatment because it moderates factors directly linked to atherosclerotic CVD such as inflammation, weight gain, food intake and insulin resistance. Though initially studied for its contribution to parturition and lactation, oxytocin participates in social attachment and bonding, associative learning, memory and stress responses. Oxytocin has shown promise in animal models of atherosclerosis and in some human studies as well. A number of properties of oxytocin make it a candidate CVD treatment. Oxytocin not only lowers fat mass and cytokine levels, but also improves glucose tolerance, lowers blood pressure and relieves anxiety. Further, it has an important role in communication in the gut-brain axis that makes it a promising treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Oxytocin acts through its receptor which is a class I G-protein-coupled receptor present in cells of the vascular system including the heart and arteries. While oxytocin is not used for heart disease at present, residual CVD risk remains in a substantial portion of patients despite multidrug regimens, leaving open the possibility of using the endogenous nonapeptide as an adjunct therapy. This review discusses the possible role for oxytocin in human CVD prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison B Reiss
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA.
| | - Daniel S Glass
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA
| | - Eric Lam
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA
| | - Amy D Glass
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA
| | - Joshua De Leon
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA
| | - Lora J Kasselman
- Department of Medicine and Research Institute, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola NY 11501, USA
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Iwasa T, Matsuzaki T, Mayila Y, Yanagihara R, Yamamoto Y, Kawakita T, Kuwahara A, Irahara M. Oxytocin treatment reduced food intake and body fat and ameliorated obesity in ovariectomized female rats. Neuropeptides 2019; 75:49-57. [PMID: 30885500 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that oxytocin reduces food intake and body weight gain and promotes lipolysis in some species, including humans. Interestingly, these effects of oxytocin are more marked in obese individuals. Although the menopausal loss of ovarian function induces increased visceral adiposity and some metabolic disorders, no safe medical interventions for these conditions have been established. In this study, we evaluated the effects of oxytocin on appetite, body weight, and fat mass in ovariectomized rats. Six-day oxytocin treatment attenuated cumulative food intake and body weight gain, and reduced visceral and subcutaneous fat weight and adipocyte cell area in ovariectomized rats. Blood examinations indicated that 6-day oxytocin treatment did not alter renal or hepatic functions. Instead, it might prevent ovariectomy-induced liver damage. In addition, acute oxytocin treatment did not affect body temperature or locomotor activity. These results indicate that oxytocin might be useful for treating or preventing menopause-induced metabolic disorders, without causing any adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
| | - Toshiya Matsuzaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yiliyasi Mayila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Rie Yanagihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yuri Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Takako Kawakita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Akira Kuwahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
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Aulinas A, Pulumo RL, Asanza E, Mancuso CJ, Slattery M, Tolley C, Plessow F, Thomas JJ, Eddy KT, Miller KK, Klibanski A, Misra M, Lawson EA. Endogenous Oxytocin Levels in Relation to Food Intake, Menstrual Phase, and Age in Females. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:1348-1356. [PMID: 30445502 PMCID: PMC6408871 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-02036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Oxytocin regulates a range of physiological processes including eating behavior and oxytocin administration reduces caloric intake in males. There are few data on oxytocin and eating behavior in healthy females or on the response of endogenous oxytocin to food intake and its relationship to appetite in humans. OBJECTIVES To determine the postprandial pattern of oxytocin levels, the relationship between oxytocin and appetite, and the impact of menstrual cycle phase and age on oxytocin levels in females. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Clinical research center. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-five healthy females (age 10 to 45 years). INTERVENTIONS A standardized mixed meal was administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Blood sampling for oxytocin occurred at fasting and at 30, 60, and 120 minutes postmeal. Appetite was assessed using Visual Analogue Scales pre- and postmeal. RESULTS Mean fasting oxytocin levels were 1011.2 ± 52.3 pg/mL (SEM) and decreased at 30 and 60 minutes postmeal (P = 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Mean oxytocin levels decreased19.6% ± 3.0% from baseline to nadir. Oxytocin area under the curve was lower in the early to midfollicular menstrual cycle phase (P = 0.0003) and higher in younger females (P = 0.002). The percent change in oxytocin (baseline to nadir) was associated with postprandial hunger (rs = -0.291, P = 0.03) and fullness (rs = 0.345, P = 0.009). These relations remained significant after controlling for calories consumed, menstrual cycle status, and age (P = 0.023 and P = 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Peripheral oxytocin levels in females decrease after a mixed meal and are associated with appetite independent of menstrual phase, age, and caloric intake, suggesting that endogenous oxytocin levels may play a role in perceived hunger and satiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Aulinas
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
| | | | - Elisa Asanza
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Meghan Slattery
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christiane Tolley
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Franziska Plessow
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer J Thomas
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
- Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Kamryn T Eddy
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
- Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Karen K Miller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Anne Klibanski
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Madhusmita Misra
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
- Pediatric Endocrine Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Elizabeth A. Lawson, MD, MMSc, Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114. E-mail:
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47
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Bhargava R, Daughters KL, Rees A. Oxytocin therapy in hypopituitarism: Challenges and opportunities. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2019; 90:257-264. [PMID: 30506703 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Patients with hypopituitarism display impaired quality of life and excess morbidity and mortality, despite apparently optimal pituitary hormone replacement. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide synthesized in the anterior hypothalamus which plays an important role in controlling social and emotional behaviour, body weight and metabolism. Recent studies have suggested that a deficiency of oxytocin may be evident in patients with hypopituitarism and craniopharyngioma, and that this may be associated with deficits in cognitive empathy. Preliminary data hint at potential benefits of oxytocin therapy in improving these deficits and the accompanying metabolic disturbances that are common in these conditions. However, several challenges remain, including an incomplete understanding of the regulation and mechanisms of action of oxytocin, difficulties in accurately measuring oxytocin levels and in establishing a diagnosis of oxytocin deficiency, and a need to determine both the optimal mode of administration for oxytocin therapy and an acceptable safety profile with long-term use. This review considers the data linking oxytocin to the neuropsychological and metabolic disturbances evident in patients with craniopharyngioma and hypopituitarism, and describes the challenges that need to be overcome before replacement therapy can be considered as a therapeutic option in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghav Bhargava
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Katie L Daughters
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Aled Rees
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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48
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Ding C, Leow MKS, Magkos F. Oxytocin in metabolic homeostasis: implications for obesity and diabetes management. Obes Rev 2019; 20:22-40. [PMID: 30253045 PMCID: PMC7888317 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin was once understood solely as a neuropeptide with a central role in social bonding, reproduction, parturition, lactation and appetite regulation. Recent evidence indicates that oxytocin enhances glucose uptake and lipid utilization in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, suggesting that dysfunction of the oxytocin system could underlie the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia. Murine studies revealed that deficiencies in oxytocin signalling and oxytocin receptor expression lead to obesity despite normal food intake, motor activity and increased leptin levels. In addition, plasma oxytocin concentration is notably lower in obese individuals with diabetes, which may suggest an involvement of the oxytocin system in the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic disease. More recently, small scale studies demonstrated that intranasal administration of oxytocin was associated with significant weight loss as well as improvements in insulin sensitivity and pancreatic β-cell responsivity in human subjects. The multi-pronged effects of oxytocin signalling on improving peripheral insulin sensitivity, pancreatic function and lipid homeostasis strongly suggest a role for this system as a therapeutic target in obesity and diabetes management. The complexity of obesity aetiology and the pathogenesis of obesity-related metabolic complications underscore the need for a systems approach to better understand the role of oxytocin in metabolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ding
- Clinical Nutrition Research Centre (CNRC), Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - M K-S Leow
- Clinical Nutrition Research Centre (CNRC), Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and National University Health System, Singapore.,Department of Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - F Magkos
- Clinical Nutrition Research Centre (CNRC), Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and National University Health System, Singapore.,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore
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49
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Skinner JA, Campbell EJ, Dayas CV, Garg ML, Burrows TL. The relationship between oxytocin, dietary intake and feeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies in mice and rats. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 52:65-78. [PMID: 30315826 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin has been associated with food intake and feeding behaviour. This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of oxytocin on dietary intake and feeding behaviour in rodent studies. Six electronic databases were searched to identify published studies to April 2018. Preclinical studies in mice and rats were included if they reported: (1) a dietary measure (i.e. food or nutrient and/or behaviour (2) an oxytocin measure, and (3) relationship between the two measures. A total of 75 articles (n = 246 experiments) were included, and study quality appraised. The majority of studies were carried out in males (87%). The top three oxytocin outcomes assessed were: exogenous oxytocin administration (n = 126), oxytocin-receptor antagonist administration (n = 46) and oxytocin gene deletion (n = 29). Meta-analysis of exogenous studies in mice (3 studies, n = 43 comparisons) and rats (n = 8 studies, n = 82 comparisons) showed an overall decrease in food intake with maximum effect shown at 2 h post-administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle A Skinner
- Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Erin J Campbell
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Christopher V Dayas
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Manohar L Garg
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Tracy L Burrows
- Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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50
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Labyb M, Chrétien C, Caillon A, Rohner-Jeanrenaud F, Altirriba J. Oxytocin Administration Alleviates Acute but Not Chronic Leptin Resistance of Diet-Induced Obese Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010088. [PMID: 30587816 PMCID: PMC6337181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas leptin administration only has a negligible effect on the treatment of obesity, it has been demonstrated that its action can be improved by co-administration of leptin and one of its sensitizers. Considering that oxytocin treatment decreases body weight in obese animals and humans, we investigated the effects of oxytocin and leptin cotreatment. First, lean and diet-induced obese (DIO) mice were treated with oxytocin for 2 weeks and we measured the acute leptin response. Second, DIO mice were treated for 2 weeks with saline, oxytocin (50 μg/day), leptin (20 or 40 µg/day) or oxytocin plus leptin. Oxytocin pre-treatment restored a normal acute leptin response, decreasing food intake and body weight gain. Chronic continuous administration of oxytocin or leptin at 40 µg/day decreased body weight in the presence (leptin) or in the absence (oxytocin) of cumulative differences in food intake. Saline or leptin treatment at 20 µg/day had no impact on body weight. Oxytocin and leptin cotreatments had no additional effects compared with single treatments. These results point to the fact that chronic oxytocin treatment improves the acute, but not the chronic leptin response, suggesting that this treatment could be used to improve the short-term satiety effect of leptin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Labyb
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Department of Medicine Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Geneva Medical Centre, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Chloé Chrétien
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Geneva Medical Centre, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Aurélie Caillon
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Department of Medicine Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Geneva Medical Centre, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Françoise Rohner-Jeanrenaud
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Department of Medicine Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Geneva Medical Centre, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Jordi Altirriba
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Department of Medicine Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Geneva Medical Centre, CH1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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