1
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Liu Y, Lin D, Najam SS, Huang S, Song M, Sirakawin C, Zhao C, Jiang H, Konopka W, Herzig S, Vinnikov IA. Functional redundancy between glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors in mature corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons protects from obesity. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2024; 32:1885-1896. [PMID: 39315404 DOI: 10.1002/oby.24116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Here, we aimed to investigate the role of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors (GRs and MRs, respectively) in the regulation of energy homeostasis. METHODS We used three mouse models with simultaneous deletion of GRs and MRs in either forebrain neurons, the paraventricular nucleus, or corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons and compared them with wild-type controls or isolated knockout groups. In addition to body weight, food intake, energy expenditure, insulin sensitivity, fat/lean mass distribution, and plasma corticosterone levels, we also performed transcriptomic analysis of CRH neurons and assessed their response to melanocortinergic stimulation. RESULTS Similar to global double-knockout models, deletion of GRs and MRs specifically in mature CRH neurons resulted in obesity. Importantly, the latter was accompanied by insulin resistance, but not increased plasma corticosterone levels. Transcriptomic analysis of these neurons revealed upregulation of several genes involved in postsynaptic signal transduction, including the Ptk2b gene, which encodes proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2. Knockout of both nuclear receptors leads to upregulation of Ptk2b in CRH neurons, which results in their diminished responsiveness to melanocortinergic stimulation. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate the functional redundancy of GRs and MRs in CRH neurons to maintain energy homeostasis and prevent obesity. Simultaneous targeting of both receptors might represent an unprecedented approach to counteract obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongfa Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Syeda Sadia Najam
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shangyuan Huang
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Muyi Song
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaweewan Sirakawin
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Catherine Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haixia Jiang
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Witold Konopka
- Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Metabolism, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Łukasiewicz PORT Polish Center for Technology Development, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Stephan Herzig
- Institute for Diabetes and Cancer (IDC), Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich Germany; Joint Heidelberg-IDC Translational Diabetes Unit, Inner Medicine I, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Molecular Metabolic Control, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research, Munich, Germany
| | - Ilya A Vinnikov
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Rodrigues B, Leitão RA, Santos M, Trofimov A, Silva M, Inácio ÂS, Abreu M, Nobre RJ, Costa J, Cardoso AL, Milosevic I, Peça J, Oliveiros B, Pereira de Almeida L, Pinheiro PS, Carvalho AL. MiR-186-5p inhibition restores synaptic transmission and neuronal network activity in a model of chronic stress. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02715-1. [PMID: 39237722 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Chronic stress exerts profound negative effects on cognitive and emotional behaviours and is a major risk factor for the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the molecular links between chronic stress and its deleterious effects on neuronal and synaptic function remain elusive. Here, using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches, we demonstrate that the upregulation of miR-186-5p triggered by chronic stress may be a key mediator of such changes, leading to synaptic dysfunction. Our results show that the expression levels of miR-186-5p are increased both in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice exposed to chronic stress and in cortical neurons chronically exposed to dexamethasone. Additionally, viral overexpression of miR-186-5p in the PFC of naïve mice induces anxiety- and depressive-like behaviours. The upregulation of miR-186-5p through prolonged glucocorticoid receptor activation in vitro, or in a mouse model of chronic stress, differentially affects glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic transmission, causing an imbalance in excitation/inhibition that leads to altered neuronal network activity. At glutamatergic synapses, we observed both a reduction in synaptic AMPARs and synaptic transmission, whereas GABAergic synaptic transmission was strengthened. These changes could be rescued in vitro by a miR-186-5p inhibitor. Overall, our results establish a novel molecular link between chronic glucocorticoid receptor activation, the upregulation of miR-186-5p and the synaptic changes induced by chronic stress, that may be amenable to therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Rodrigues
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
- Experimental Biology and Biomedicine Doctoral Programme, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo A Leitão
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Santos
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alexander Trofimov
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Integrative Brain Function Neurobiology Lab, I.P. Pavlov Department of Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 197022, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 010000, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Mariline Silva
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Applied Physics and Science for Life Laboratory (SciLifeLab), KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ângela S Inácio
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Abreu
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Aging, MIA Portugal, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui J Nobre
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Costa
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
- Experimental Biology and Biomedicine Doctoral Programme, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Cardoso
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ira Milosevic
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Aging, MIA Portugal, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - João Peça
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Oliveiros
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- iCRB-Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo S Pinheiro
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Ana Luísa Carvalho
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- CiBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Czarzasta K, Bogacki-Rychlik W, Kowara M. The Interaction of Vasopressin with Hormones of the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis: The Significance for Therapeutic Strategies in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7394. [PMID: 39000501 PMCID: PMC11242374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
A large body of evidence indicates that vasopressin (AVP) and steroid hormones are frequently secreted together and closely cooperate in the regulation of blood pressure, metabolism, water-electrolyte balance, and behavior, thereby securing survival and the comfort of life. Vasopressin cooperates with hormones of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) at several levels through regulation of the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and multiple steroid hormones, as well as through interactions with steroids in the target organs. These interactions are facilitated by positive and negative feedback between specific components of the HPA. Altogether, AVP and the HPA cooperate closely as a coordinated functional AVP-HPA system. It has been shown that cooperation between AVP and steroid hormones may be affected by cellular stress combined with hypoxia, and by metabolic, cardiovascular, and respiratory disorders; neurogenic stress; and inflammation. Growing evidence indicates that central and peripheral interactions between AVP and steroid hormones are reprogrammed in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and that these rearrangements exert either beneficial or harmful effects. The present review highlights specific mechanisms of the interactions between AVP and steroids at cellular and systemic levels and analyses the consequences of the inappropriate cooperation of various components of the AVP-HPA system for the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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4
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Zheng B, Zheng Y, Hu W, Chen Z. Dissecting the networks underlying diverse brain disorders after prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1975-1990. [PMID: 38581585 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03733-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
New human life begins in the uterus in a period of both extreme plasticity and sensitivity to environmental disturbances. The fetal stage is also a vital period for central nervous system development, with experiences at this point profoundly and permanently shaping brain structure and function. As such, some brain disorders may originate in utero. Glucocorticoids, a class of essential stress hormones, play indispensable roles in fetal development, but overexposure may have lasting impacts on the brain. In this review, we summarize data from recent clinical and non-clinical studies regarding alterations in fetal brains due to prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure that are associated with nervous system disorders. We discuss relevant changes to brain structure and cellular functions and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. In addition, we summarize factors that may cause differential outcomes between varying brain regions, and outline clinically feasible intervention strategies that are expected to minimize negative consequences arising from fetal glucocorticoid overexposure. Finally, we highlight the need for experimental evidence aided by new technologies to clearly determine the effects of excessive prenatal glucocorticoid exposure. This review consolidates diverse findings to help researchers better understand the relationship between the prenatal glucocorticoid overexposure and the effects it has on various fetal brain regions, promoting further development of critical intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baixiu Zheng
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanrong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Zhong Chen
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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5
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Amaya JM, Sips HCM, Viho EMG, Kroon J, Meijer OC. Restricted effects of androgens on glucocorticoid signaling in the mouse prefrontal cortex and midbrain. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1292024. [PMID: 38303978 PMCID: PMC10830692 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1292024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are key executors of the physiological response to stress. Previous studies in mice showed that the androgen receptor (AR) influenced the transcriptional outcome of glucocorticoid treatment in white and brown adipocytes and in the liver. In the brain, we observed that chronic hypercorticism induced changes in gene expression that tended to be more pronounced in male mice. In the present study, we investigated if glucocorticoid signaling in the brain could be modulated by androgen. After chronic treatment with corticosterone, dihydrotestosterone, a combination of both, and corticosterone in combination with the AR antagonist enzalutamide, we compared the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1, also abbreviated GR) target genes in brain regions where AR and GR are co-expressed, namely: prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, hippocampus, ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra. We observed that androgen affected glucocorticoid signaling only in the prefrontal cortex and the substantia nigra. Dihydrotestosterone and corticosterone independently and inversely regulated expression of Sgk1 and Tsc22d3 in prefrontal cortex. AR antagonism with enzalutamide attenuated corticosterone-induced expression of Fkbp5 in the prefrontal cortex and of Fkbp5 and Sgk1 in the substantia nigra. Additionally, in the substantia nigra, AR antagonism increased expression of Th and Slc18a1, two genes coding for key components of the dopaminergic system. Our data indicate that androgen influence over glucocorticoid stimulation in the brain is not a dominant phenomenon in the context of high corticosterone levels, but can occur in the prefrontal cortex and substantia nigra.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Miguel Amaya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Hetty C. M. Sips
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eva M. G. Viho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Kroon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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6
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Mancini GF, Meijer OC, Campolongo P. Stress in adolescence as a first hit in stress-related disease development: Timing and context are crucial. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 69:101065. [PMID: 37001566 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
The two-hit stress model predicts that exposure to stress at two different time-points in life may increase or decrease the risk of developing stress-related disorders later in life. Most studies based on the two-hit stress model have investigated early postnatal stress as the first hit with adult stress as the second hit. Adolescence, however, represents another highly sensitive developmental window during which exposure to stressful events may affect programming outcomes following exposure to stress in adulthood. Here, we discuss the programming effects of different types of stressors (social and nonsocial) occurring during adolescence (first hit) and how such stressors affect the responsiveness toward an additional stressor occurring during adulthood (second hit) in rodents. We then provide a comprehensive overview of the potential mechanisms underlying interindividual and sex differences in the resilience/susceptibility to developing stress-related disorders later in life when stress is experienced in two different life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia F Mancini
- Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy.
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Fuller PJ, Young MJ, Yang J, Cole TJ. Structure-function relationships of the aldosterone receptor. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 123:285-312. [PMID: 37717989 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The cellular response to the adrenal steroid aldosterone is mediated by the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-dependent transcription factors. The MR binds more than one physiological ligand with binding at the MR determined by pre-receptor metabolism of glucocorticoid ligands by 11β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. The MR has a wide tissue distribution with multiple roles beyond the classical role in electrolyte homeostasis including cardiovascular function, immune cell signaling, neuronal fate and adipocyte differentiation. The MR has three principal functional domains, an N-terminal ligand domain, a central DNA binding domain and a C-terminal, ligand binding domain, with structures having been determined for the latter two domains but not for the whole receptor. MR signal-transduction can be best viewed as a series of interactions which are determined by the conformation conferred on the receptor by ligand binding. This conformation then determines subsequent intra- and inter-molecular interactions. These interactions include chromatin, coregulators and other transcription factors, and additional less well characterized cytoplasmic non-genomic effects via crosstalk with other signaling pathways. This chapter will provide a review of MR structure and function, and an analysis of the critical interactions involved in MR-mediated signal transduction, which contribute to ligand- and tissue-specificity. Understanding the relevant mechanisms for selective MR signaling in terms of these interactions opens the possibility of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of MR-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Fuller
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia; Department of Molecular Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Morag J Young
- Cardiovascular Endocrinology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; University of Melbourne and Baker HDI Department of Cardiometabolic Health and Disease, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jun Yang
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia; Department of Molecular Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Timothy J Cole
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Calis D, Hess M, Marchetta P, Singer W, Modro J, Nelissen E, Prickaerts J, Sandner P, Lukowski R, Ruth P, Knipper M, Rüttiger L. Acute deletion of the central MR/GR steroid receptor correlates with changes in LTP, auditory neural gain, and GC-A cGMP signaling. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1017761. [PMID: 36873102 PMCID: PMC9983609 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1017761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex mechanism by which stress can affect sensory processes such as hearing is still poorly understood. In a previous study, the mineralocorticoid (MR) and/or glucocorticoid receptor (GR) were deleted in frontal brain regions but not cochlear regions using a CaMKIIα-based tamoxifen-inducible Cre ERT2/loxP approach. These mice exhibit either a diminished (MRTMXcKO) or disinhibited (GRTMXcKO) auditory nerve activity. In the present study, we observed that mice differentially were (MRTMXcKO) or were not (GRTMXcKO) able to compensate for altered auditory nerve activity in the central auditory pathway. As previous findings demonstrated a link between central auditory compensation and memory-dependent adaptation processes, we analyzed hippocampal paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) and long-term potentiation (LTP). To determine which molecular mechanisms may impact differences in synaptic plasticity, we analyzed Arc/Arg3.1, known to control AMPA receptor trafficking, as well as regulators of tissue perfusion and energy consumption (NO-GC and GC-A). We observed that the changes in PPF of MRTMXcKOs mirrored the changes in their auditory nerve activity, whereas changes in the LTP of MRTMXcKOs and GRTMXcKOs mirrored instead the changes in their central compensation capacity. Enhanced GR expression levels in MRTMXcKOs suggest that MRs typically suppress GR expression. We observed that hippocampal LTP, GC-A mRNA expression levels, and ABR wave IV/I ratio were all enhanced in animals with elevated GR (MRTMXcKOs) but were all lower or not mobilized in animals with impaired GR expression levels (GRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs). This suggests that GC-A may link LTP and auditory neural gain through GR-dependent processes. In addition, enhanced NO-GC expression levels in MR, GR, and MRGRTMXcKOs suggest that both receptors suppress NO-GC; on the other hand, elevated Arc/Arg3.1 levels in MRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs but not GRTMXcKOs suggest that MR suppresses Arc/Arg3.1 expression levels. Conclusively, MR through GR inhibition may define the threshold for hemodynamic responses for LTP and auditory neural gain associated with GC-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dila Calis
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Morgan Hess
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julian Modro
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer Health Care Pharmaceuticals, Global Drug Discovery Pharma Research Centre Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Robert Lukowski
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Ruth
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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9
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Koorneef LL, Viho EMG, Wahl LF, Meijer OC. Do Corticosteroid Receptor mRNA Levels Predict the Expression of Their Target Genes? J Endocr Soc 2022; 7:bvac188. [PMID: 36578881 PMCID: PMC9791178 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The glucocorticoid stress hormones affect brain function via high-affinity mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and lower-affinity glucocorticoid receptors (GRs). MR and GR not only differ in affinity for ligands, but also have distinct, sometimes opposite, actions on neuronal excitability and other cellular and higher-order parameters related to cerebral function. GR and MR messenger RNA (mRNA) levels are often used as a proxy for the responsiveness to glucocorticoids, assuming proportionality between mRNA and protein levels. This may be especially relevant for the MR, which because of its high affinity is already largely occupied at low basal (trough) hormone levels. Here we explore how GR and MR mRNA levels are associated with the expression of a shared target gene, glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ, coded by Tsc22d3) with basal and elevated levels of corticosterone in male mice, using in situ hybridization. Depending on the hippocampal subfield and the corticosterone levels, mRNA levels of MR rather than GR mostly correlated with GILZ mRNA in the hippocampus and hypothalamus at the bulk tissue level. At the individual cell level, these correlations were much weaker. Using publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data, we again observed that MR and GR mRNA levels were only weakly correlated with target gene expression in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons. We conclude that MR mRNA levels can be limiting for receptor action, but many other cell-specific and region-specific factors ultimately determine corticosteroid receptor action. Altogether, our results argue for caution while interpreting the consequences of changed receptor expression for the response to glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa L Koorneef
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Eva M G Viho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Lucas F Wahl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
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10
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Daskalakis NP, Meijer OC, de Kloet ER. Mineralocorticoid receptor and glucocorticoid receptor work alone and together in cell-type-specific manner: Implications for resilience prediction and targeted therapy. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 18:100455. [PMID: 35601687 PMCID: PMC9118500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
'You can't roll the clock back and reverse the effects of experiences' Bruce McEwen used to say when explaining how allostasis labels the adaptive process. Here we will for once roll the clock back to the times that the science of the glucocorticoid hormone was honored with a Nobel prize and highlight the discovery of their receptors in the hippocampus as inroad to its current status as master regulator in control of stress coping and adaptation. Glucocorticoids operate in concert with numerous neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and other hormones with the aim to facilitate processing of information in the neurocircuitry of stress, from anticipation and perception of a novel experience to behavioral adaptation and memory storage. This action, exerted by the glucocorticoids, is guided by two complementary receptor systems, mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR), that need to be balanced for a healthy stress response pattern. Here we discuss the cellular, neuroendocrine, and behavioral studies underlying the MR:GR balance concept, highlight the relevance of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) -axis patterns and note the limited understanding yet of sexual dimorphism in glucocorticoid actions. We conclude with the prospect that (i) genetically and epigenetically regulated receptor variants dictate cell-type-specific transcriptome signatures of stress-related neuropsychiatric symptoms and (ii) selective receptor modulators are becoming available for more targeted treatment. These two new developments may help to 'restart the clock' with the prospect to support resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E. Ron de Kloet
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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11
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Paul SN, Wingenfeld K, Otte C, Meijer OC. Brain Mineralocorticoid receptor in health and disease: from molecular signaling to cognitive and emotional function. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:3205-3219. [PMID: 35297038 PMCID: PMC9323486 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) mediate effects of glucocorticoid hormones in stress adaptation, as well as the effects of aldosterone itself in relation to salt homeostasis. Brain stem MRs respond to aldosterone, whereas forebrain MRs mediate rapid and delayed glucocorticoid effects in conjunction with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). MR‐mediated effects depend on age, gender, genetic variations, and environmental influences. Disturbed MR activity through chronic stress, certain (endocrine) diseases or during glucocorticoid therapy can cause deleterious effects on affective state, cognitive and behavioural function in susceptible individuals. Considering the important role MR plays in cognition and emotional function in health and disease, MR modulation by pharmacological intervention could relieve stress‐ and endocrine‐related symptoms. Here, we discuss recent pharmacological interventions in the clinic and genetic developments in the molecular underpinnings of MR signalling. Further understanding of MR‐dependent pathways may help to improve psychiatric symptoms in a diversity of settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana N Paul
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Wingenfeld
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.,NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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12
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Koning ASCAM, Habets PC, Bogaards M, Kroon J, van Santen HM, de Bont JM, Meijer OC. Mineralocorticoid receptor status in the human brain after dexamethasone treatment: a single case study. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:EC-21-0425.R1. [PMID: 35148274 PMCID: PMC8942311 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic glucocorticoids like dexamethasone can cause severe neuropsychiatric effects. They preferentially bind to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) over the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). High dosages result in strong GR activation but likely also result in lower MR activation based on GR-mediated negative feedback on cortisol levels. Therefore, reduced MR activity may contribute to dexamethasone-induced neuropsychiatric symptoms. OBJECTIVE In this single case study, we evaluate whether dexamethasone leads to reduced MR activation in the human brain. Brain tissue of an 8-year-old brain tumor patient was used, who suffered chronically from dexamethasone-induced neuropsychiatric symptoms and deceased only hours after a high dose of dexamethasone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The efficacy of dexamethasone to induce MR activity was determined in HEK293T cells using a reporter construct. Subcellular localization of GR and MR was assessed in paraffin-embedded hippocampal tissue from the patient and two controls. In hippocampal tissue from the patient and eight controls, mRNA of MR/GR target genes was measured. RESULTS In vitro, dexamethasone stimulated MR with low efficacy and low potency. Immunofluorescence showed the presence of both GR and MR in the hippocampal cell nuclei after dexamethasone exposure. The putative MR target gene JDP2 was consistently expressed at relatively low levels in the dexamethasone-treated brain samples. Gene expression showed substantial variation in MR/GR target gene expression in two different hippocampus tissue blocks from the same patient. CONCLUSIONS Dexamethasone may induce MR nuclear translocation in the human brain. Conclusions on in vivo effects on gene expression in the brain await the availability of more tissue of dexamethasone-treated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie C A M Koning
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to A-S C A M Koning or O C Meijer: or
| | - Philippe C Habets
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marit Bogaards
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Kroon
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Prinses Máxima Centrum, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith M de Bont
- Department of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Prinses Máxima Centrum, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to A-S C A M Koning or O C Meijer: or
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13
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Viho EMG, Buurstede JC, Berkhout JB, Mahfouz A, Meijer OC. Cell type specificity of glucocorticoid signaling in the adult mouse hippocampus. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13072. [PMID: 34939259 PMCID: PMC9286676 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid stress hormones are powerful modulators of brain function and can affect mood and cognitive processes. The hippocampus is a prominent glucocorticoid target and expresses both the glucocorticoid receptor (GR: Nr3c1) and the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR: Nr3c2). These nuclear steroid receptors act as ligand-dependent transcription factors. Transcriptional effects of glucocorticoids have often been deduced from bulk mRNA measurements or spatially informed individual gene expression. However, only sparse data exists allowing insights on glucocorticoid-driven gene transcription at the cell type level. Here, we used publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data to assess the cell-type specificity of GR and MR signaling in the adult mouse hippocampus. The data confirmed that Nr3c1 and Nr3c2 expression differs across neuronal and non-neuronal cell populations. We analyzed co-expression with sex hormones receptors, transcriptional coregulators, and receptors for neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. Our results provide insights in the cellular basis of previous bulk mRNA results and allow the formulation of more defined hypotheses on the effects of glucocorticoids on hippocampal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M. G. Viho
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jacobus C. Buurstede
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jari B. Berkhout
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Human GeneticsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Mahfouz
- Department of Human GeneticsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Delft Bioinformatics LaboratoryDelft University of TechnologyDelftThe Netherlands
- Leiden Computational Biology CenterLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
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14
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Koorneef LL, van der Meulen M, Kooijman S, Sánchez-López E, Scheerstra JF, Voorhoeve MC, Ramesh ANN, Rensen PCN, Giera M, Kroon J, Meijer OC. Dexamethasone-associated metabolic effects in male mice are partially caused by depletion of endogenous corticosterone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:960279. [PMID: 36034417 PMCID: PMC9399852 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.960279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic glucocorticoids are clinically used to treat auto-immune and inflammatory disease. Despite the high efficacy, glucocorticoid treatments causes side effects such as obesity and insulin resistance in many patients. Via their pharmacological target, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), glucocorticoids suppress endogenous glucocorticoid secretion. Endogenous, but not synthetic, glucocorticoids activate the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and side effects of synthetic glucocorticoids may thus not only result from GR hyperactivation but also from MR hypoactivation. Here, we tested the hypothesis that reactivation of MR with corticosterone add-on treatment can attenuate the metabolic effects of the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone. Male 8-week-old C57Bl/6J mice received a high-fat diet supplemented with dexamethasone or vehicle, and were subcutaneously implanted with low-dose corticosterone- or vehicle-containing pellets. Dexamethasone strongly reduced body weight and fat mass gain, while corticosterone add-on partially normalized this. Dexamethasone-induced hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia were exacerbated by corticosterone add-on, which was prevented by MR antagonism. In subcutaneous white adipose tissue, corticosterone add-on prevented the dexamethasone-induced expression of intracellular lipolysis genes. In brown adipose tissue, dexamethasone also upregulated gene expression of brown adipose tissue identity markers, lipid transporters and lipolysis enzymes, which was prevented by corticosterone add-on. In conclusion, corticosterone add-on treatment prevents several, while exacerbating other metabolic effects of dexamethasone. While the exact role of MR remains elusive, this study suggests that corticosterone suppression by dexamethasone contributes to its effects in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa L. Koorneef
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Merel van der Meulen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Sander Kooijman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Elena Sánchez-López
- Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jari F. Scheerstra
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Maaike C. Voorhoeve
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ajith N. Nadamuni Ramesh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Patrick C. N. Rensen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Martin Giera
- Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Kroon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Onno C. Meijer,
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15
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Grossmann C, Almeida-Prieto B, Nolze A, Alvarez de la Rosa D. Structural and molecular determinants of mineralocorticoid receptor signalling. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3103-3118. [PMID: 34811739 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past decades, the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) has evolved from a much-overlooked member of the steroid hormone receptor family to an important player, not only in volume and electrolyte homeostasis but also in pathological changes occurring in an increasing number of tissues, especially the renal and cardiovascular systems. Simultaneously, a wealth of information about the structure, interaction partners and chromatin requirements for genomic signalling of steroid hormone receptors became available. However, much of the information for the MR has been deduced from studies of other family members and there is still a lack of knowledge about MR-specific features in ligand binding, chromatin remodelling, co-factor interactions and general MR specificity-conferring mechanisms that can completely explain the differences in pathophysiological function between MR and its closest relative, the glucocorticoid receptor. This review aims to give an overview of the current knowledge of MR structure, signalling and co-factors modulating its activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Grossmann
- Julius Bernstein Institute of Physiology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Saale, Germany
| | - Brian Almeida-Prieto
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas and Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Alexander Nolze
- Julius Bernstein Institute of Physiology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Saale, Germany
| | - Diego Alvarez de la Rosa
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas and Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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16
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Pérez P. The mineralocorticoid receptor in skin disease. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3178-3189. [PMID: 34788475 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mineralocorticoid Receptor (MR or NR3C2) is expressed in all cell types of the different skin compartments and can be bound and activated by glucocorticoids (GCs) with higher affinity than its closely related glucocorticoid (GC) receptor (GR or NR3C1). As both corticosteroid receptors co-express in skin, and considering the therapeutic relevance of GCs to combat skin inflammatory diseases, it was proposed that several of the major side-effects of topical GCs such as skin atrophy and delayed wound healing were due to unintended activation of the MR. Indeed, cutaneous MR blockade using genetic and pharmacological approaches in mice and human reduced the GC-associated skin atrophy in conditions of endogenous and pharmacological GC excess. While data support the safety of topical MR antagonists combined with GCs, it is crucial to address the efficacy of treatment in skin inflammatory conditions and its impact on the overall metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Pérez
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia (IBV)-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
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17
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Potential associations between immune signaling genes, deactivated microglia, and oligodendrocytes and cortical gray matter loss in patients with long-term remitted Cushing's disease. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 132:105334. [PMID: 34225183 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cushing's disease (CD) is a rare and severe endocrine disease characterized by hypercortisolemia. Previous studies have found structural brain alterations in remitted CD patients compared to healthy controls, specifically in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). However, potential mechanisms through which these persistent alterations may have occurred are currently unknown. METHODS Structural 3T MRI's from 25 remitted CD patients were linked with gene expression data from neurotypical donors, derived from the Allen Human Brain Atlas. Differences in gene expression between the ACC and an unaffected control cortical region were examined, followed by a Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. A cell type enrichment analysis was conducted on the differentially expressed genes, and a disease association enrichment analysis was conducted to determine possible associations between differentially expressed genes and specific diseases. Subsequently, cortisol sensitivity of these genes in existing datasets was examined. RESULTS The gene expression analysis identified 300 differentially expressed genes in the ACC compared to the cortical control region. GO analyses found underexpressed genes to represent immune function. The cell type specificity analysis indicated that underexpressed genes were enriched for deactivated microglia and oligodendrocytes. Neither significant associations with diseases, nor evidence of cortisol sensitivity with the differentially expressed genes were found. DISCUSSION Underexpressed genes in the ACC, the area vulnerable to permanent changes in remitted CD patients, were often associated with immune functioning. The specific lack of deactivated microglia and oligodendrocytes implicates protective effects of these cell types against the long-term effects of cortisol overexposure.
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18
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Mifsud KR, Kennedy CLM, Salatino S, Sharma E, Price EM, Haque SN, Gialeli A, Goss HM, Panchenko PE, Broxholme J, Engledow S, Lockstone H, Cordero Llana O, Reul JMHM. Distinct regulation of hippocampal neuroplasticity and ciliary genes by corticosteroid receptors. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4737. [PMID: 34362910 PMCID: PMC8346558 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24967-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones (GCs) - acting through hippocampal mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) - are critical to physiological regulation and behavioural adaptation. We conducted genome-wide MR and GR ChIP-seq and Ribo-Zero RNA-seq studies on rat hippocampus to elucidate MR- and GR-regulated genes under circadian variation or acute stress. In a subset of genes, these physiological conditions resulted in enhanced MR and/or GR binding to DNA sequences and associated transcriptional changes. Binding of MR at a substantial number of sites however remained unchanged. MR and GR binding occur at overlapping as well as distinct loci. Moreover, although the GC response element (GRE) was the predominant motif, the transcription factor recognition site composition within MR and GR binding peaks show marked differences. Pathway analysis uncovered that MR and GR regulate a substantial number of genes involved in synaptic/neuro-plasticity, cell morphology and development, behavior, and neuropsychiatric disorders. We find that MR, not GR, is the predominant receptor binding to >50 ciliary genes; and that MR function is linked to neuronal differentiation and ciliogenesis in human fetal neuronal progenitor cells. These results show that hippocampal MRs and GRs constitutively and dynamically regulate genomic activities underpinning neuronal plasticity and behavioral adaptation to changing environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen R Mifsud
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Clare L M Kennedy
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Silvia Salatino
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Eshita Sharma
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Emily M Price
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha N Haque
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Andriana Gialeli
- Stem Cell Biology Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah M Goss
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Polina E Panchenko
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - John Broxholme
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Engledow
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Lockstone
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Cordero Llana
- Stem Cell Biology Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Johannes M H M Reul
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
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19
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Vettorazzi S, Nalbantoglu D, Gebhardt JCM, Tuckermann J. A guide to changing paradigms of glucocorticoid receptor function-a model system for genome regulation and physiology. FEBS J 2021; 289:5718-5743. [PMID: 34213830 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a bona fide ligand-regulated transcription factor. Cloned in the 80s, the GR has become one of the best-studied and clinically most relevant members of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Cooperative activity of GR with other transcription factors and a plethora of coregulators contribute to the tissue- and context-specific response toward the endogenous and pharmacological glucocorticoids (GCs). Furthermore, nontranscriptional activities in the cytoplasm are emerging as an additional function of GR. Over the past 40 years, the concepts of GR mechanisms of action had been constantly changing. Different methodologies in the pregenomic and genomic era of molecular biological research and recent cutting-edge technology in single-cell and single-molecule analysis are steadily evolving the views, how the GR in particular and transcriptional regulation in general act in physiological and pathological processes. In addition to the development of technologies for GR analysis, the use of model organisms provides insights how the GR in vivo executes GC action in tissue homeostasis, inflammation, and energy metabolism. The model organisms, namely the mouse, but also rats, zebrafish, and recently fruit flies carrying mutations of the GR became a major driving force to analyze the molecular function of GR in disease models. This guide provides an overview of the exciting research and paradigm shifts in the GR field from past to present with a focus on GR transcription factor networks, GR DNA-binding and single-cell analysis, and model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Vettorazzi
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Germany
| | - Denis Nalbantoglu
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Germany
| | | | - Jan Tuckermann
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Germany
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20
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Buurstede JC, van Weert LTCM, Colucci P, Gentenaar M, Viho EMG, Koorneef LL, Schoonderwoerd RA, Lanooij SD, Moustakas I, Balog J, Mei H, Kielbasa SM, Campolongo P, Roozendaal B, Meijer OC. Hippocampal glucocorticoid target genes associated with enhancement of memory consolidation. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 55:2666-2683. [PMID: 33840130 PMCID: PMC9292385 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids enhance memory consolidation of emotionally arousing events via largely unknown molecular mechanisms. This glucocorticoid effect on the consolidation process also requires central noradrenergic neurotransmission. The intracellular pathways of these two stress mediators converge on two transcription factors: the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and phosphorylated cAMP response element‐binding protein (pCREB). We therefore investigated, in male rats, whether glucocorticoid effects on memory are associated with genomic interactions between the GR and pCREB in the hippocampus. In a two‐by‐two design, object exploration training or no training was combined with post‐training administration of a memory‐enhancing dose of corticosterone or vehicle. Genomic effects were studied by chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP‐seq) of GR and pCREB 45 min after training and transcriptome analysis after 3 hr. Corticosterone administration induced differential GR DNA‐binding and regulation of target genes within the hippocampus, largely independent of training. Training alone did not result in long‐term memory nor did it affect GR or pCREB DNA‐binding and gene expression. No strong evidence was found for an interaction between GR and pCREB. Combination of the GR DNA‐binding and transcriptome data identified a set of novel, likely direct, GR target genes that are candidate mediators of corticosterone effects on memory consolidation. Cell‐specific expression of the identified target genes using single‐cell expression data suggests that the effects of corticosterone reflect in part non‐neuronal cells. Together, our data identified new GR targets associated with memory consolidation that reflect effects in both neuronal and non‐neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacobus C Buurstede
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa T C M van Weert
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paola Colucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Max Gentenaar
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eva M G Viho
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa L Koorneef
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Robin A Schoonderwoerd
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne D Lanooij
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ioannis Moustakas
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Judit Balog
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Szymon M Kielbasa
- Department of Medical Statistics and Bioinformatics, Bioinformatics Center of Expertise, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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21
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Jaszczyk A, Juszczak GR. Glucocorticoids, metabolism and brain activity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:113-145. [PMID: 33727030 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The review integrates different experimental approaches including biochemistry, c-Fos expression, microdialysis (glutamate, GABA, noradrenaline and serotonin), electrophysiology and fMRI to better understand the effect of elevated level of glucocorticoids on the brain activity and metabolism. The available data indicate that glucocorticoids alter the dynamics of neuronal activity leading to context-specific changes including both excitation and inhibition and these effects are expected to support the task-related responses. Glucocorticoids also lead to diversification of available sources of energy due to elevated levels of glucose, lactate, pyruvate, mannose and hydroxybutyrate (ketone bodies), which can be used to fuel brain, and facilitate storage and utilization of brain carbohydrate reserves formed by glycogen. However, the mismatch between carbohydrate supply and utilization that is most likely to occur in situations not requiring energy-consuming activities lead to metabolic stress due to elevated brain levels of glucose. Excessive doses of glucocorticoids also impair the production of energy (ATP) and mitochondrial oxidation. Therefore, glucocorticoids have both adaptive and maladaptive effects consistently with the concept of allostatic load and overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Jaszczyk
- Department of Animal Behavior and Welfare, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552 Jastrzebiec, 36a Postepu str., Poland
| | - Grzegorz R Juszczak
- Department of Animal Behavior and Welfare, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552 Jastrzebiec, 36a Postepu str., Poland.
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22
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HUZARD D, RAPPENEAU V, MEIJER OC, TOUMA C, ARANGO-LIEVANO M, GARABEDIAN MJ, JEANNETEAU F. Experience and activity-dependent control of glucocorticoid receptors during the stress response in large-scale brain networks. Stress 2021; 24:130-153. [PMID: 32755268 PMCID: PMC7907260 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2020.1806226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of actions of the glucocorticoid stress hormones among individuals and within organs, tissues and cells is shaped by age, gender, genetics, metabolism, and the quantity of exposure. However, such factors cannot explain the heterogeneity of responses in the brain within cells of the same lineage, or similar tissue environment, or in the same individual. Here, we argue that the stress response is continuously updated by synchronized neural activity on large-scale brain networks. This occurs at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels by crosstalk communication between activity-dependent and glucocorticoid signaling pathways, which updates the diversity of responses based on prior experience. Such a Bayesian process determines adaptation to the demands of the body and external world. We propose a framework for understanding how the diversity of glucocorticoid actions throughout brain networks is essential for supporting optimal health, while its disruption may contribute to the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders, such as major depression, and resistance to therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien HUZARD
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
| | - Virginie RAPPENEAU
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Onno C. MEIJER
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Chadi TOUMA
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Margarita ARANGO-LIEVANO
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Freddy JEANNETEAU
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
- Corresponding author:
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23
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Molecular characterization of the stress network in individuals at risk for schizophrenia. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 14:100307. [PMID: 33644266 PMCID: PMC7893486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100307] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The biological mechanisms underlying inter-individual differences in human stress reactivity remain poorly understood. We aimed to identify the molecular underpinning of aberrant neural stress sensitivity in individuals at risk for schizophrenia. Linking mRNA expression data from the Allen Human Brain Atlas to task-based fMRI revealed 201 differentially expressed genes in cortex-specific brain regions differentially activated by stress in individuals with low (healthy siblings of schizophrenia patients) or high (healthy controls) stress sensitivity. These genes are associated with stress-related psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia and anxiety) and include markers for specific neuronal populations (e.g. ADCYAP1, GABRB1, SSTR1, and TNFRSF12A), neurotransmitter receptors (e.g. GRIN3A, SSTR1, GABRB1, and HTR1E), and signaling factors that interact with the corticosteroid receptor and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (e.g. ADCYAP1, IGSF11, and PKIA). Overall, the identified genes potentially underlie altered stress reactivity in individuals at risk for schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders and play a role in mounting an adaptive stress response in at-risk individuals, making them potentially druggable targets for stress-related diseases.
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24
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Disruption of NEUROD2 causes a neurodevelopmental syndrome with autistic features via cell-autonomous defects in forebrain glutamatergic neurons. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:6125-6148. [PMID: 34188164 PMCID: PMC8760061 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01179-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While the transcription factor NEUROD2 has recently been associated with epilepsy, its precise role during nervous system development remains unclear. Using a multi-scale approach, we set out to understand how Neurod2 deletion affects the development of the cerebral cortex in mice. In Neurod2 KO embryos, cortical projection neurons over-migrated, thereby altering the final size and position of layers. In juvenile and adults, spine density and turnover were dysregulated in apical but not basal compartments in layer 5 neurons. Patch-clamp recordings in layer 5 neurons of juvenile mice revealed increased intrinsic excitability. Bulk RNA sequencing showed dysregulated expression of many genes associated with neuronal excitability and synaptic function, whose human orthologs were strongly associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). At the behavior level, Neurod2 KO mice displayed social interaction deficits, stereotypies, hyperactivity, and occasionally spontaneous seizures. Mice heterozygous for Neurod2 had similar defects, indicating that Neurod2 is haploinsufficient. Finally, specific deletion of Neurod2 in forebrain excitatory neurons recapitulated cellular and behavioral phenotypes found in constitutive KO mice, revealing the region-specific contribution of dysfunctional Neurod2 in symptoms. Informed by these neurobehavioral features in mouse mutants, we identified eleven patients from eight families with a neurodevelopmental disorder including intellectual disability and ASD associated with NEUROD2 pathogenic mutations. Our findings demonstrate crucial roles for Neurod2 in neocortical development, whose alterations can cause neurodevelopmental disorders including intellectual disability and ASD.
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25
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Herman JP, Nawreen N, Smail MA, Cotella EM. Brain mechanisms of HPA axis regulation: neurocircuitry and feedback in context Richard Kvetnansky lecture. Stress 2020; 23:617-632. [PMID: 33345670 PMCID: PMC8034599 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2020.1859475] [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: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of stress reactivity is a fundamental priority of all organisms. Stress responses are critical for survival, yet can also cause physical and psychological damage. This review provides a synopsis of brain mechanisms designed to control physiological responses to stress, focusing primarily on glucocorticoid secretion via the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. The literature provides strong support for multi-faceted control of HPA axis responses, involving both direct and indirect actions at paraventricular nucleus (PVN) corticotropin releasing hormone neurons driving the secretory cascade. The PVN is directly excited by afferents from brainstem and hypothalamic circuits, likely relaying information on homeostatic challenge. Amygdala subnuclei drive HPA axis responses indirectly via disinhibition, mediated by GABAergic relays onto PVN-projecting neurons in the hypothalamus and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST). Inhibition of stressor-evoked HPA axis responses is mediated by an elaborate network of glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-containing circuits, providing a distributed negative feedback signal that inhibits PVN neurons. Prefrontal and hippocampal neurons play a major role in HPA axis inhibition, again mediated by hypothalamic and BST GABAergic relays to the PVN. The complexity of the regulatory process suggests that information on stressors is integrated across functional disparate brain circuits prior to accessing the PVN, with regions such as the BST in prime position to relay contextual information provided by these sources into appropriate HPA activation. Dysregulation of the HPA in disease is likely a product of inappropriate checks and balances between excitatory and inhibitory inputs ultimately impacting PVN output.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Herman
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nawshaba Nawreen
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Marissa A Smail
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Evelin M Cotella
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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26
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Mechanisms Underlying the Regulation of Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Complexes by Nuclear Steroid Receptors. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186683. [PMID: 32932692 PMCID: PMC7555717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes play important roles in energy production via oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to drive various biochemical processes in eukaryotic cells. These processes require coordination with other cell organelles, especially the nucleus. Factors encoded by both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA are involved in the formation of active respiratory chain complexes and 'supercomplexes', the higher-order structures comprising several respiratory chain complexes. Various nuclear hormone receptors are involved in the regulation of OXPHOS-related genes. In this article, we review the roles of nuclear steroid receptors (NR3 class nuclear receptors), including estrogen receptors (ERs), estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs), progesterone receptors (PRs), and androgen receptors (ARs), in the regulatory mechanisms of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex and supercomplex formation.
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27
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Runge K, Cardoso C, de Chevigny A. Dendritic Spine Plasticity: Function and Mechanisms. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00036
expr 823669561 + 872784217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
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28
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Runge K, Cardoso C, de Chevigny A. Dendritic Spine Plasticity: Function and Mechanisms. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:36. [PMID: 32982715 PMCID: PMC7484486 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small protrusions studding neuronal dendrites, first described in 1888 by Ramón y Cajal using his famous Golgi stainings. Around 50 years later the advance of electron microscopy (EM) confirmed Cajal's intuition that spines constitute the postsynaptic site of most excitatory synapses in the mammalian brain. The finding that spine density decreases between young and adult ages in fixed tissues suggested that spines are dynamic. It is only a decade ago that two-photon microscopy (TPM) has unambiguously proven the dynamic nature of spines, through the repeated imaging of single spines in live animals. Spine dynamics comprise formation, disappearance, and stabilization of spines and are modulated by neuronal activity and developmental age. Here, we review several emerging concepts in the field that start to answer the following key questions: What are the external signals triggering spine dynamics and the molecular mechanisms involved? What is, in return, the role of spine dynamics in circuit-rewiring, learning, and neuropsychiatric disorders?
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Runge
- Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED) INSERM U1249, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Carlos Cardoso
- Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED) INSERM U1249, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Antoine de Chevigny
- Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED) INSERM U1249, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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29
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Fuller PJ, Yao YZ, Yang J, Young MJ. Structural determinants of activation of the mineralocorticoid receptor: an evolutionary perspective. J Hum Hypertens 2020; 35:110-116. [PMID: 32467588 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-020-0360-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) plays a central role in sodium homoeostasis by transducing the response to aldosterone in the distal nephron and other sodium transporting epithelia. The MR is a member of the nuclear receptor family of ligand-dependent transcription factors; it is unusual in being the receptor for two steroid hormones aldosterone and cortisol (which also binds to the closely related glucocorticoid receptor). Less well recognised is that progesterone also binds to the MR with high affinity. The conformation of the ligand-bound receptor is determined by the ligand including whether the conformation is agonist or antagonist. An agonist MR conformation then enables interactions with DNA, other MR (homodimerization) and coregulatory molecules to regulate gene expression. Insights into the structural determinants of an agonist response to ligand come from studies of the evolution of the MR. Progesterone is an agonist in the fish MR, but antagonist in the MR of terrestrial vertebrates; this switch results from the loss of a critical leucine that mediates a leucine:leucine interaction between helix 1 and helix 8 which enables the agonist response to progesterone. The insights into the intramolecular dynamics of activation suggest novel ways in which MR antagonism may be achieved beyond the current, progesterone-based antagonists in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Fuller
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia. .,Department of Molecular Translational Science, The Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
| | - Yi-Zhou Yao
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular Translational Science, The Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Jun Yang
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular Translational Science, The Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Morag J Young
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular Translational Science, The Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
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30
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Kroon J, Pereira AM, Meijer OC. Glucocorticoid Sexual Dimorphism in Metabolism: Dissecting the Role of Sex Hormones. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:357-367. [PMID: 32037025 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that are of pivotal importance in human physiology. Glucocorticoid signaling is complex in nature and dependent on many interacting factors. As glucocorticoids exhibit sexually dimorphic effects on several key processes including in metabolism, crosstalk with the sex steroid hormones (androgens and estrogens) is relevant. In this review, we highlight the state-of-the-art knowledge on glucocorticoid sexual dimorphism and sex hormone crosstalk. We include current insight in the molecular mechanisms that underlie nuclear steroid receptor crosstalk, and sex hormone effects on glucocorticoid metabolism. Finally, we show how these findings translate to humans exposed to excess glucocorticoid signaling, and we propose future avenues in the emerging field of steroid hormone crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Kroon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Alberto M Pereira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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31
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Ferguson D, Hutson I, Tycksen E, Pietka TA, Bauerle K, Harris CA. Role of Mineralocorticoid Receptor in Adipogenesis and Obesity in Male Mice. Endocrinology 2020; 161:bqz010. [PMID: 32036385 PMCID: PMC7007880 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased visceral adiposity and hyperglycemia, 2 characteristics of metabolic syndrome, are also present in conditions of excess glucocorticoids (GCs). GCs are hormones thought to act primarily via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). GCs are commonly prescribed for inflammatory disorders, yet their use is limited due to many adverse metabolic side effects. In addition to GR, GCs also bind the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), but there are many conflicting studies about the exact role of MR in metabolic disease. Using MR knockout mice (MRKO), we find that both white and brown adipose depots form normally when compared with wild-type mice at P5. We created mice with adipocyte-specific deletion of MR (FMRKO) to better understand the role of MR in metabolic dysfunction. Treatment of mice with excess GCs for 4 weeks, via corticosterone in drinking water, induced increased fat mass and glucose intolerance to similar levels in FMRKO and floxed control mice. Separately, when fed a high-fat diet for 16 weeks, FMRKO mice had reduced body weight, fat mass, and hepatic steatosis, relative to floxed control mice. Decreased adiposity likely resulted from increased energy expenditure since food intake was not different. RNA sequencing analysis revealed decreased enrichment of genes associated with adipogenesis in inguinal white adipose of FMRKO mice. Differentiation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) showed modestly impaired adipogenesis in MRKO MEFs compared with wild type, but this was rescued upon the addition of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonist or PPARγ overexpression. Collectively, these studies provide further evidence supporting the potential value of MR as a therapeutic target for conditions associated with metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ferguson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Irina Hutson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Eric Tycksen
- Genome Technology Access Center, McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Terri A Pietka
- Nutrition and Geriatrics Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kevin Bauerle
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Charles A Harris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs St Louis Healthcare System, John Cochran Division, St. Louis, Missouri
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32
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Cruz-Topete D, Oakley RH, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoid Signaling and the Aging Heart. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:347. [PMID: 32528419 PMCID: PMC7266971 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A decline in normal physiological functions characterizes the aging process. While some of these changes are benign, the decrease in the function of the cardiovascular system that occurs during aging leads to the activation of pathological processes associated with an increased risk for heart disease and its complications. Imbalances in endocrine function are also common occurrences during the aging process. Glucocorticoids are primary stress hormones and are critical regulators of energy metabolism, inflammation, and cardiac function. Glucocorticoids exert their actions by binding the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and, in some instances, to the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). GR and MR are members of the nuclear receptor family of ligand-activated transcription factors. There is strong evidence that imbalances in GR and MR signaling in the heart have a causal role in cardiac disease. The extent to which glucocorticoids play a role in the aging heart, however, remains unclear. This review will summarize the positive and negative direct and indirect effects of glucocorticoids on the heart and the latest molecular and physiological evidence on how alterations in glucocorticoid signaling lead to changes in cardiac structure and function. We also briefly discuss the effects of other hormones systems such as estrogens and GH/IGF-1 on different cardiovascular cells during aging. We will also review the link between imbalances in glucocorticoid levels and the molecular processes responsible for promoting cardiomyocyte dysfunction in aging. Finally, we will discuss the potential for selectively manipulating glucocorticoid signaling in cardiomyocytes, which may represent an improved therapeutic approach for preventing and treating age-related heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Cruz-Topete
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, United States
- *Correspondence: Diana Cruz-Topete
| | - Robert H. Oakley
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, United States
| | - John A. Cidlowski
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, United States
- John A. Cidlowski
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33
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Koning ASCAM, Buurstede JC, van Weert LTCM, Meijer OC. Glucocorticoid and Mineralocorticoid Receptors in the Brain: A Transcriptional Perspective. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1917-1930. [PMID: 31598572 PMCID: PMC6777400 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Adrenal glucocorticoid hormones are crucial for maintenance of homeostasis and adaptation to stress. They act via the mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs)-members of the family of nuclear receptors. MRs and GRs can mediate distinct, sometimes opposite, effects of glucocorticoids. Both receptor types can mediate nongenomic steroid effects, but they are best understood as ligand-activated transcription factors. MR and GR protein structure is similar; the receptors can form heterodimers on the DNA at glucocorticoid response elements (GREs), and they share a number of target genes. The transcriptional basis for opposite effects on cellular physiology remains largely unknown, in particular with respect to MR-selective gene transcription. In this review, we discuss proven and potential mechanisms of transcriptional specificity for MRs and GRs. These include unique GR binding to "negative GREs," direct binding to other transcription factors, and binding to specific DNA sequences in conjunction with other transcription factors, as is the case for MRs and NeuroD proteins in the brain. MR- and GR-specific effects may also depend on specific interactions with transcriptional coregulators, downstream mediators of transcriptional receptor activity. Current data suggest that the relative importance of these mechanisms depends on the tissue and physiological context. Insight into these processes may not only allow a better understanding of homeostatic regulation but also the development of drugs that target specific aspects of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie C A M Koning
- Einthoven Laboratory and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jacobus C Buurstede
- Einthoven Laboratory and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lisa T C M van Weert
- Einthoven Laboratory and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Einthoven Laboratory and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, Netherlands
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Ding J, da Silva MS, Lingeman J, Chen X, Shi Y, Han F, Meijer OC. Late glucocorticoid receptor antagonism changes the outcome of adult life stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 107:169-178. [PMID: 31132569 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.05.014] [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: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stressors activate a wide spectrum of interacting hormonal and neuronal systems resulting in behavioral and physiological responses, with consequences for the development of psychopathology. Several recent studies demonstrated that treatment with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist RU486 during adulthood normalized effects of early life stress. We aimed to evaluate the potential of RU486 to reverse stress-induced changes in an animal model of adult stress. METHOD We employed the single-prolonged stress (SPS) model as a multimodal stress exposure protocol in male rats. SPS rats and unstressed controls were treated with RU486 on days 8, 9, 10 after stress exposure and the effects of treatment were evaluated after another 4 days. We determined body weight gain, corticosterone levels, behavioral reactivity in anxiety tests, and brain gene expression of c-fos, corticosteroid receptors, drivers of the stress response and genes (epi-)genitally linked to PTSD. RESULTS RU486 affected body weight gain, corticosterone levels and open field behavior only in SPS rats. RU486 had history-independent effects in reducing fear in the elevated plus maze and fear conditioning behavior. Gene expression analysis showed a diversity of in- and interdependent effects of stress and RU486. CONCLUSION The effects of RU486 applied 1 week after stress and measured 4 days after treatment demonstrate that in the state of post-SPS the GR-dependence of homeostatic processes has changed. This suggests that GR-mediated processes are part of allostatic regulation after adult stress. The normalization of a number of SPS-effects after RU486 treatment reinforces the potential of targeting GR for treatment of stress-related psychopathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlan Ding
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; PTSD Lab, Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Marcia Santos da Silva
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jolanthe Lingeman
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Xinzhao Chen
- PTSD Lab, Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yuxiu Shi
- PTSD Lab, Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Fang Han
- PTSD Lab, Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China.
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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van Weert LTCM, Buurstede JC, Sips HCM, Vettorazzi S, Mol IM, Hartmann J, Prekovic S, Zwart W, Schmidt MV, Roozendaal B, Tuckermann JP, Sarabdjitsingh RA, Meijer OC. Identification of mineralocorticoid receptor target genes in the mouse hippocampus. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12735. [PMID: 31121060 PMCID: PMC6771480 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Brain mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) respond to the same glucocorticoid hormones but can have differential effects on cellular function. Several lines of evidence suggest that MR-specific target genes must exist and might underlie the distinct effects of the receptors. The present study aimed to identify MR-specific target genes in the hippocampus, a brain region where MR and GR are co-localised and play a role in the stress response. Using genome-wide binding of both receptor types, we previously identified MR-specific, MR-GR overlapping and GR-specific putative target genes. We now report altered gene expression levels of such genes in the hippocampus of forebrain MR knockout (fbMRKO) mice, killed at the time of their endogenous corticosterone peak. Of those genes associated with MR-specific binding, the most robust effect was a 50% reduction in Jun dimerization protein 2 (Jdp2) mRNA levels in fbMRKO mice. Down-regulation was also observed for the MR-specific Nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (Nos1ap) and Suv3 like RNA helicase (Supv3 l1). Interestingly, the classical glucocorticoid target gene FK506 binding protein 5 (Fkbp5), which is associated with MR and GR chromatin binding, was expressed at substantially lower levels in fbMRKO mice. Subsequently, hippocampal Jdp2 was confirmed to be up-regulated in a restraint stress model, posing Jdp2 as a bona fide MR target that is also responsive in an acute stress condition. Thus, we show that MR-selective DNA binding can reveal functional regulation of genes and further identify distinct MR-specific effector pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa T. C. M. van Weert
- Einthoven LaboratoryDivision of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive NeuroscienceRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviourRadboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Jacobus C. Buurstede
- Einthoven LaboratoryDivision of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Hetty C. M. Sips
- Einthoven LaboratoryDivision of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Sabine Vettorazzi
- Institute of Comparative Molecular EndocrinologyUniversity of UlmUlmGermany
| | - Isabel M. Mol
- Einthoven LaboratoryDivision of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jakob Hartmann
- Department of PsychiatryHarvard Medical SchoolMcLean HospitalBelmontMassachusetts
| | - Stefan Prekovic
- Division of OncogenomicsOncode InstituteThe Netherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Zwart
- Division of OncogenomicsOncode InstituteThe Netherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Mathias V. Schmidt
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and NeurogeneticsMax Planck Institute of PsychiatryMunichGermany
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Department of Cognitive NeuroscienceRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviourRadboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Jan P. Tuckermann
- Institute of Comparative Molecular EndocrinologyUniversity of UlmUlmGermany
| | - R. Angela Sarabdjitsingh
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceUMC Utrecht Brain CenterUniversity Medical CenterUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Einthoven LaboratoryDivision of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
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Rivers CA, Rogers MF, Stubbs FE, Conway-Campbell BL, Lightman SL, Pooley JR. Glucocorticoid Receptor-Tethered Mineralocorticoid Receptors Increase Glucocorticoid-Induced Transcriptional Responses. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1044-1056. [PMID: 30980716 PMCID: PMC6462215 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors (MRs and GRs) constitute a functionally important dual receptor system detecting and transmitting circulating corticosteroid signals. High expression of MRs and GRs occurs in the same cells in the limbic system, the primary site of glucocorticoid action on cognition, behavior, and mood; however, modes of interaction between the receptors are poorly characterized. We used chromatin immunoprecipitation with nucleotide resolution using exonuclease digestion, unique barcode, and single ligation (ChIP-nexus) for high-resolution genome-wide characterization of MR and GR DNA binding profiles in neuroblastoma cells and demonstrate recruitment to highly similar DNA binding sites. Expressed MR or GR showed differential regulation of endogenous gene targets, including Syt2 and Ddc, whereas coexpression produced augmented transcriptional responses even when MRs were unable to bind DNA (MR-XDBD). ChIP confirmed that MR-XDBD could be tethered to chromatin by GR. Our data demonstrate that MR can interact at individual genomic DNA sites in multiple modes and suggest a role for MR in increasing the transcriptional response to glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Rivers
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Mark F Rogers
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity E Stubbs
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Becky L Conway-Campbell
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Stafford L Lightman
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - John R Pooley
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: John R. Pooley, PhD, University of Bristol, Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, United Kingdom. E-mail:
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van Weert LTCM, Buurstede JC, Sips HCM, Mol IM, Puri T, Damsteegt R, Roozendaal B, Sarabdjitsingh RA, Meijer OC. Mechanistic Insights in NeuroD Potentiation of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1575. [PMID: 30934833 PMCID: PMC6479562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)-mediated signaling in the brain has been suggested as a protective factor in the development of psychopathology, in particular mood disorders. We recently identified genomic loci at which either MR or the closely related glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binds selectively, and found members of the NeuroD transcription factor family to be specifically associated with MR-bound DNA in the rat hippocampus. We show here using forebrain-specific MR knockout mice that GR binding to MR/GR joint target loci is not affected in any major way in the absence of MR. Neurod2 binding was also independent of MR binding. Moreover, functional comparison with MyoD family members indicates that it is the chromatin remodeling aspect of NeuroD, rather than its direct stimulation of transcription, that is responsible for potentiation of MR-mediated transcription. These findings suggest that NeuroD acts in a permissive way to enhance MR-mediated transcription, and they argue against competition for DNA binding as a mechanism of MR- over GR-specific binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa T C M van Weert
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Jacobus C Buurstede
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Hetty C M Sips
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Isabel M Mol
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Tanvi Puri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Ruth Damsteegt
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - R Angela Sarabdjitsingh
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
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de Kloet ER, de Kloet SF, de Kloet CS, de Kloet AD. Top-down and bottom-up control of stress-coping. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12675. [PMID: 30578574 PMCID: PMC6519262 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this 30th anniversary issue review, we focus on the glucocorticoid modulation of limbic-prefrontocortical circuitry during stress-coping. This action of the stress hormone is mediated by mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) that are co-expressed abundantly in these higher brain regions. Via both receptor types, the glucocorticoids demonstrate, in various contexts, rapid nongenomic and slower genomic actions that coordinate consecutive stages of information processing. MR-mediated action optimises stress-coping, whereas, in a complementary fashion, the memory storage of the selected coping strategy is promoted via GR. We highlight the involvement of adipose tissue in the allocation of energy resources to central regulation of stress reactions, point to still poorly understood neuronal ensembles in the prefrontal cortex that underlie cognitive flexibility critical for effective coping, and evaluate the role of cortisol as a pleiotropic regulator in vulnerability to, and treatment of, trauma-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edo R. de Kloet
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Sybren F. de Kloet
- Department of Integrative NeurophysiologyCenter for Neurogenomics and Cognitive ResearchVU‐University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Annette D. de Kloet
- Department of Physiology and Functional GenomicsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFlorida
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Viho EMG, Buurstede JC, Mahfouz A, Koorneef LL, van Weert LTCM, Houtman R, Hunt HJ, Kroon J, Meijer OC. Corticosteroid Action in the Brain: The Potential of Selective Receptor Modulation. Neuroendocrinology 2019; 109:266-276. [PMID: 30884490 PMCID: PMC6878852 DOI: 10.1159/000499659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones have important effects on brain function in the context of acute and chronic stress. Many of these are mediated by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). GR has transcriptional activity which is highly context-specific and differs between tissues and even between cell types. The outcome of GR-mediated transcription depends on the interactome of associated coregulators. Selective GR modulators (SGRMs) are a class of GR ligands that can be used to activate only a subset of GR-coregulator interactions, thereby giving the possibility to induce a unique combination of agonistic and antagonistic GR properties. We describe SGRM action in animal models of brain function and pathology, and argue for their utility as molecular filters, to characterize context-specific GR interactome and transcriptional activity that are responsible for particular glucocorticoid-driven effects in cognitive processes such as memory consolidation. The ultimate objective of this approach is to identify molecular processes that are responsible for adaptive and maladaptive effects of glucocorticoids in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M G Viho
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacobus C Buurstede
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Mahfouz
- Delft Bioinformatics Laboratory, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
- Leiden Computational Biology Center, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa L Koorneef
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa T C M van Weert
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Hazel J Hunt
- Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Jan Kroon
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands,
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands,
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40
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Fuller PJ, Yang J, Young MJ. Mechanisms of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Signaling. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2019; 109:37-68. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Chen H, Amazit L, Lombès M, Le Menuet D. Crosstalk Between Glucocorticoid Receptor and Early-growth Response Protein 1 Accounts for Repression of Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Transcript 4 Expression. Neuroscience 2018; 399:12-27. [PMID: 30578973 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key player in brain functions such as synaptic plasticity, stress, and behavior. Its gene structure in rodents contains 8 untranslated exons (I to VIII) whose expression is finely regulated and which spliced onto a common and unique translated exon IX. Altered Bdnf expression is associated with many pathologies such as depression, Alzheimer's disease and addiction. Through binding to glucocorticoid receptor (GR), glucocorticoids play a pivotal role for stress responses, mood and neuronal plasticity. We recently showed in neuronal primary culture and in the immortalized neuronal-like BZ cells that GR repressed Bdnf expression, notably the bdnf exon IV containing mRNA isoform (Bdnf4) via GR binding to a short 275-bp sequence of Bdnf promoter. Herein, we demonstrate by transient transfection experiments and mutagenesis in BZ cells that GR interacts with an early growth response protein 1 (EGR1) response element (EGR-RE) located in the transcription start site of Bdnf exon IV promoter. Using Chromatin Immunoprecipitation, we find that both GR and EGR1 bind to this promoter sequence in a glucocorticoid-dependent manner and demonstrate by co-immunoprecipitation that GR and EGR1 are interacting physically. Interestingly, EGR1 has been widely characterized as a regulator of brain plasticity. In conclusion, we deciphered a mechanism by which GR downregulates Bdnf expression, identifying a novel functional crosstalk between glucocorticoid pathways, immediate early growth response proteins and Bdnf. As all these factors are well-recognized germane for brain pathophysiology, these findings may have significant implications in neurosciences as well as in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Inserm 1185, Fac Med Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Larbi Amazit
- UMS-32, Institut Biomédical de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Marc Lombès
- Inserm 1185, Fac Med Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94275, France
| | - Damien Le Menuet
- Inserm 1185, Fac Med Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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Abstract
The mineralocorticoid hormone aldosterone is released by the adrenal glands in a homeostatic mechanism to regulate blood volume. Several cues elicit aldosterone release, and the long-term action of the hormone is to restore blood pressure and/or increase the retrieval of sodium from filtered plasma in the kidney. While the signaling cascade that results in aldosterone release is well studied, the impact of this hormone on tissues and cells in various organ systems is pleotropic. Emerging evidence indicates aldosterone may alter non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) to integrate the hormonal response, and these ncRNAs may contribute to the heterogeneity of signaling outcomes in aldosterone target tissues. The best studied of the ncRNAs in aldosterone action are the small ncRNAs, microRNAs. MicroRNA expression is regulated by aldosterone stimulation, and microRNAs are able to modulate protein expression at all steps in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-signaling system. The discovery and synthesis of microRNAs will be briefly covered followed by a discussion of the reciprocal role of aldosterone/microRNA regulation, including misregulation of microRNA signaling in aldosterone-linked disease states.
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Meijer OC, Buurstede JC, Schaaf MJM. Corticosteroid Receptors in the Brain: Transcriptional Mechanisms for Specificity and Context-Dependent Effects. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 39:539-549. [PMID: 30291573 PMCID: PMC6469829 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0625-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Corticosteroid hormones act in the brain to support adaptation to stress via binding to mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors (MR and GR). These receptors act in large measure as transcription factors. Corticosteroid effects can be highly divergent, depending on the receptor type, but also on brain region, cell type, and physiological context. These differences ultimately depend on differential interactions of MR and GR with other proteins, which determine ligand binding, nuclear translocation, and transcriptional activities. In this review, we discuss established and potential mechanisms that confer receptor and cell type-specific effects of the MR and GR-mediated transcriptional effects in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onno C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - J C Buurstede
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel J M Schaaf
- Department of Animal Sciences and Health (M.J.M.S.), Institute of Biology, Leiden University, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Mifsud KR, Reul JMHM. Mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptor-mediated control of genomic responses to stress in the brain. Stress 2018; 21:389-402. [PMID: 29614900 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2018.1456526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful coping with stressful events involves adaptive and cognitive processes in the brain that make the individual more resilient to similar stressors in the future. Stressful events result in the secretion of glucocorticoids (GCs) from the adrenal glands into the blood stream. Early work proved instrumental for developing the concept that these hormones act in the brain to coordinate physiological and behavioral responses to stress through binding to two different GC-binding receptors. Once activated these receptors translocate to the nucleus where they act on target genes to facilitate (or sometimes inhibit) transcription. There are two types of receptors in the brain, the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR). This review summarizes recent work which provides new insights regarding the genomic action of these receptors, both under baseline conditions and following exposure to acute stress. This work is discussed alongside the extensive studies undertaken in this field previously and new, and exciting "big data" studies which have generated a wealth of relevant data. The consequence of these new insights will challenge existing assumptions about the role of MRs and GRs and pave the way for the implementation of novel and improved methodologies to identify the role these corticosteroid receptors have in stress-related behavioral adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen R Mifsud
- a Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School , University of Bristol , Bristol , UK
| | - Johannes M H M Reul
- a Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School , University of Bristol , Bristol , UK
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Dalm S, Karssen AM, Meijer OC, Belanoff JK, de Kloet ER. Resetting the Stress System with a Mifepristone Challenge. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 39:503-522. [PMID: 30173378 PMCID: PMC6469632 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0614-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Psychotic depression is characterized by elevated circulating cortisol, and high daily doses of the glucocorticoid/progesterone antagonist mifepristone for 1 week are required for significant improvement. Using a rodent model, we find that such high doses of mifepristone are needed because the antagonist is rapidly degraded and poorly penetrates the blood–brain barrier, but seems to facilitate the entry of cortisol. We also report that in male C57BL/6J mice, after a 7-day treatment with a high dose of mifepristone, basal blood corticosterone levels were similar to that of vehicle controls. This is surprising because after the first mifepristone challenge, corticosterone remained elevated for about 16 h, and then decreased towards vehicle control levels at 24 h. At that time, stress-induced corticosterone levels of the 1xMIF were sevenfold higher than the 7xMIF group, the latter response being twofold lower than controls. The 1xMIF mice showed behavioral hyperactivity during exploration of the circular hole board, while the 7xMIF mice rather engaged in serial search patterns. To explain this rapid reset of corticosterone secretion upon recurrent mifepristone administration, we suggest the following: (i) A rebound glucocorticoid feedback after cessation of mifepristone treatment. (ii) Glucocorticoid agonism in transrepression and recruitment of cell-specific coregulator cocktails. (iii) A more prominent role of brain MR function in control of stress circuit activity. An overview table of neuroendocrine MIF effects is provided. The data are of interest for understanding the mechanistic underpinning of stress system reset as treatment strategy for stress-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu Dalm
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan M Karssen
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Room C-7-44, Postal zone C7-Q, PO Box 9600, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - E Ronald de Kloet
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Room C-7-44, Postal zone C7-Q, PO Box 9600, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Sevilla LM, Pérez P. Roles of the Glucocorticoid and Mineralocorticoid Receptors in Skin Pathophysiology. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071906. [PMID: 29966221 PMCID: PMC6073661 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear hormone receptor (NR) superfamily comprises approximately 50 evolutionarily conserved proteins that play major roles in gene regulation by prototypically acting as ligand-dependent transcription factors. Besides their central role in physiology, NRs have been largely used as therapeutic drug targets in many chronic inflammatory conditions and derivatives of their specific ligands, alone or in combination, are frequently prescribed for the treatment of skin diseases. In particular, glucocorticoids (GCs) are the most commonly used compounds for treating prevalent skin diseases such as psoriasis due to their anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory actions. However, and despite their therapeutic efficacy, the long-term use of GCs is limited because of the cutaneous adverse effects including atrophy, delayed wound healing, and increased susceptibility to stress and infections. The GC receptor (GR/NR3C1) and the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR/NR3C2) are members of the NR subclass NR3C that are highly related, both structurally and functionally. While the GR is ubiquitously expressed and is almost exclusively activated by GCs; an MR has a more restricted tissue expression pattern and can bind GCs and the mineralocorticoid aldosterone with similar high affinity. As these receptors share 95% identity in their DNA binding domains; both can recognize the same hormone response elements; theoretically resulting in transcriptional regulation of the same target genes. However, a major mechanism for specific activation of GRs and/or MRs is at the pre-receptor level by modulating the local availability of active GCs. Furthermore, the selective interactions of each receptor with spatio-temporally regulated transcription factors and co-regulators are crucial for the final transcriptional outcome. While there are abundant genome wide studies identifying GR transcriptional targets in a variety of tissue and cell types; including keratinocytes; the data for MR is more limited thus far. Our group and others have studied the role of GRs and MRs in skin development and disease by generating and characterizing mouse and cellular models with gain- and loss-of-function for each receptor. Both NRs are required for skin barrier competence during mouse development and also play a role in adult skin homeostasis. Moreover, the combined loss of epidermal GRs and MRs caused a more severe skin phenotype relative to single knock-outs (KOs) in developing skin and in acute inflammation and psoriasis, indicating that these corticosteroid receptors play cooperative roles. Understanding GR- and MR-mediated signaling in skin should contribute to deciphering their tissue-specific relative roles and ultimately help to improve GC-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Sevilla
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia (IBV)-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Paloma Pérez
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia (IBV)-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
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Abstract
The glucocorticoid hormone cortisol acts throughout the body to support circadian processes and adaptation to stress. The glucocorticoid receptor is the target of cortisol and of synthetic glucocorticoids, which are used widely in the clinic. Both agonism and antagonism of the glucocorticoid receptor may be beneficial in disease, but given the wide expression of the receptor and involvement in various processes, beneficial effects are often accompanied by unwanted side effects. Selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators are ligands that induce a receptor conformation that allows activation of only a subset of downstream signaling pathways. Such molecules thereby combine agonistic and antagonistic properties. Here we discuss the mechanisms underlying selective receptor modulation and their promise in treating diseases in several organ systems where cortisol signaling plays a role.
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de Kloet ER, Meijer OC, de Nicola AF, de Rijk RH, Joëls M. Importance of the brain corticosteroid receptor balance in metaplasticity, cognitive performance and neuro-inflammation. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 49:124-145. [PMID: 29428549 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Bruce McEwen's discovery of receptors for corticosterone in the rat hippocampus introduced higher brain circuits in the neuroendocrinology of stress. Subsequently, these receptors were identified as mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) that are involved in appraisal processes, choice of coping style, encoding and retrieval. The MR-mediated actions on cognition are complemented by slower actions via glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) on contextualization, rationalization and memory storage of the experience. These sequential phases in cognitive performance depend on synaptic metaplasticity that is regulated by coordinate MR- and GR activation. The receptor activation includes recruitment of coregulators and transcription factors as determinants of context-dependent specificity in steroid action; they can be modulated by genetic variation and (early) experience. Interestingly, inflammatory responses to damage seem to be governed by a similarly balanced MR:GR-mediated action as the initiating, terminating and priming mechanisms involved in stress-adaptation. We conclude with five questions challenging the MR:GR balance hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R de Kloet
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - O C Meijer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - A F de Nicola
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - R H de Rijk
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands & Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, The Netherlands.
| | - M Joëls
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Trollope AF, Mifsud KR, Saunderson EA, Reul JMHM. Molecular and Epigenetic Mechanisms Underlying Cognitive and Adaptive Responses to Stress. EPIGENOMES 2017; 1:17. [PMID: 31921466 PMCID: PMC6952278 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes1030017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Consolidation of contextual memories after a stressful encounter is essential for the survival of an organism and in allowing a more appropriate response to be elicited should the perceived threat reoccur. Recent evidence has explored the complex role that epigenetic mechanisms play in the formation of such memories, and the underlying signaling pathways are becoming more apparent. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) has been shown to play a key role in these events having both genomic and non-genomic actions in the brain. GR has been shown to interact with the extracellular signal-regulated kinase mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK MAPK) signaling pathway which, in concert, drives epigenetic modifications and chromatin remodeling, resulting in gene induction and memory consolidation. Evidence indicates that stressful events can have an effect on the offspring in utero, and that epigenetic marks altered early in life may persist into adulthood. A new and controversial area of research, however, suggests that epigenetic modifications could be inherited through the germline, a concept known as transgenerational epigenetics. This review explores the role that epigenetic processes play in the central nervous system, specifically in the consolidation of stress-induced memories, the concept of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, and the potential role of epigenetics in revolutionizing the treatment of stress-related disorders through the emerging field of pharmacoepigenetics and personalized medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra F. Trollope
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville 4811, Australia
| | - Karen R. Mifsud
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Emily A. Saunderson
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Johannes M. H. M. Reul
- Neuro-Epigenetics Research Group, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
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Joëls M, de Kloet ER. 30 YEARS OF THE MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR: The brain mineralocorticoid receptor: a saga in three episodes. J Endocrinol 2017. [PMID: 28634266 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In 1968, Bruce McEwen discovered that 3H-corticosterone administered to adrenalectomised rats is retained in neurons of hippocampus rather than those of hypothalamus. This discovery signalled the expansion of endocrinology into the science of higher brain regions. With this in mind, our contribution highlights the saga of the brain mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in three episodes. First, the precloning era dominated by the conundrum of two types of corticosterone-binding receptors in the brain, which led to the identification of the high-affinity corticosterone receptor as the 'promiscuous' MR cloned in 1987 by Jeff Arriza and Ron Evans in addition to the classical glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Then, the post-cloning period aimed to disentangle the function of the brain MR from that of the closely related GR on different levels of biological complexity. Finally, the synthesis section that highlights the two faces of brain MR: Salt and Stress. 'Salt' refers to the regulation of salt appetite, and reciprocal arousal, motivation and reward, by a network of aldosterone-selective MR-expressing neurons projecting from nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) and circumventricular organs. 'Stress' is about the limbic-forebrain nuclear and membrane MRs, which act as a switch in the selection of the best response to cope with a stressor. For this purpose, activation of the limbic MR promotes selective attention, memory retrieval and the appraisal process, while driving emotional expressions of fear and aggression. Subsequently, rising glucocorticoid concentrations activate GRs in limbic-forebrain circuitry underlying executive functions and memory storage, which contribute in balance with MR-mediated actions to homeostasis, excitability and behavioural adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Joëls
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceBrain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of GroningenUniversity Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - E Ronald de Kloet
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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