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Liu X, Guo X, Zhang T, Duan J, Zhang L, Wang M, Li Y, Shen Z, Mao J. Testosterone maintains male longevity and female reproduction in Chrysopa pallens. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32478. [PMID: 38933978 PMCID: PMC11201114 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate testosterone, an androgen present in the testes, is essential for male fertility. Vertebrate-type steroid hormones have been identified in insects, but their function remains unknown. Insect vitellogenin (Vg) is usually a female-specific protein involved in reproductive processes. However, males of some species, such as the green lacewing Chrysopa pallens, have Vg. Here, we demonstrated that the knockdown of C. pallens male Vg by RNAi significantly shortened the lifespan of males, suppressed the reproduction of post-mating females, and strikingly reduced the abundance of several immune-related compounds, including testosterone. LC-MS/MS revealed that C. pallens male testosterone had the same structure and molecular mass as vertebrate testosterone. Topical testosterone application partially restored the lifespan of Vg-deficient males and the reproduction of post-mating females. These results suggest that vertebrate-type testosterone maintains male longevity and female reproduction under the control of the male Vg in C. pallens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xingkai Guo
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Jinjiang, 362251, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Duan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Lisheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Mengqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhongjian Shen
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jianjun Mao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Enemy Insects, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
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Bakhtyukov AA, Derkach KV, Dar'in DV, Shpakov AO. Conservation of Steroidogenic Effect of the Low-Molecular-Weight Agonist of Luteinizing Hormone Receptor in the Course of Its Long-Term Administration to Male Rats. DOKL BIOCHEM BIOPHYS 2019; 484:78-81. [PMID: 31012020 DOI: 10.1134/s1607672919010216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract-It was shown that the thienopyrimidine derivative TP03, a low-molecular-weight agonist of the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), during the treatment of male rats for 7 days steadily increased the production of testosterone (T), whose elevated level was retained for 7 days, and increased the expression of the gene for LHR, which indicates the maintenance of the sensitivity of Leydig cells to gonadotropins. At the same time, the steroidogenic effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which significantly increased the T level on the first day of administration, was further weakened, which was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of the gene for LHR in the testes, indicating the development of resistance of Leydig cells to hCG. Along with this, in the case of hCG administration, a compensatory increase in the expression of genes of the steroidogenic enzymes, such as cytochrome P450scc and dehydrogenase 3β-HSD, was shown in the testes, while in the case of TP03 administration this effect was absent.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Bakhtyukov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - K V Derkach
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - D V Dar'in
- St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - A O Shpakov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223, St. Petersburg, Russia.
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Aydin Y, Erkan M. The toxic effects of polychlorinated biphenyl (Aroclor 1242) on Tm3 Leydig cells. Toxicol Ind Health 2017; 33:636-645. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233717699783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants that disrupt endocrine function in biological systems, especially in the male reproductive system. Previous studies on the reproductive toxicity of PCBs have focused on the impairment of spermatogenesis, disruption of steroidogenesis, decreased sperm number, and infertility. Aroclor 1242 is a commercial mixture with an average of 42% chlorine by weight. The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the hazardous effects of Aroclor 1242 on Leydig cells through an evaluation of cell viability, lipid peroxidation, hydroxyl radicals, H2O2 production, antioxidant enzymes, and steroidogenic enzymes. Leydig cells were exposed to Aroclor 1242 for 24 h under basal and luteinizing hormone-stimulated conditions at different concentrations (ranging from 10−16 M to 10−6 M). After incubation, Leydig cells were measured for cell viability, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species (hydroxyl radical and H2O2), antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase), and steroidogenic enzymes (3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase [HSD] and 17β-HSD). The results showed that cell viability was reduced only at Aroclor 1242 concentrations of 10−6 M and 10−8 M, whereas lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species increased relative to the concentration. Furthermore, antioxidant systems and steroidogenesis were interrupted to varying degrees, relative to the concentration. These findings suggest that exposure to Aroclor 1242 at high concentrations may result in detrimental effects to Leydig cell homeostasis. In addition, Aroclor 1242 may impair steroidogenesis, especially testosterone biosynthesis, by inhibiting two important steroidogenic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Aydin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Melike Erkan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Corlan AS, Cîmpean AM, Jitariu AA, Melnic E, Raica M. Endocrine Gland-Derived Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor/Prokineticin-1 in Cancer Development and Tumor Angiogenesis. Int J Endocrinol 2017; 2017:3232905. [PMID: 28386275 PMCID: PMC5366234 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3232905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A lot of data suggests endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) to be restricted to endocrine glands and to some endocrine-dependent organs. Many evidences show that EG-VEGF stimulates angiogenesis and cell proliferation, although it is not a member of the VEGF family. At the time, a lot of data regarding the role of this growth factor in normal development are available. However, controversial results have been published in the case of pathological conditions and particularly in malignant tumors. Thus, our present paper has been focused on the role of EG-VEGF in normal tissues and various malignant tumors and their angiogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silvia Corlan
- Department of Endocrinology, “Vasile Goldis” University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Anca Maria Cîmpean
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Angiogenesis Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Timișoara, Romania
- *Anca Maria Cîmpean:
| | - Adriana-Andreea Jitariu
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Angiogenesis Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Eugen Melnic
- Department of Pathology, “Nicolae Testemitanu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Moldova
| | - Marius Raica
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Angiogenesis Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Timișoara, Romania
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Chen M, Hao J, Yang Q, Li G. Effects of icariin on reproductive functions in male rats. Molecules 2014; 19:9502-14. [PMID: 24995929 PMCID: PMC6271987 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19079502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects and potential mechanism(s) of action of icariin on the reproductive functions of male rats. Adult rats were treated orally with icariin at doses of 0 (control), 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg body weight for 35 consecutive days. The results show that icariin had virtually no effect on the body weight or organ coefficients of the testes or epididymides. However, 100 mg/kg icariin significantly increased epididymal sperm counts. In addition, 50 and 100 mg/kg icariin significantly increased testosterone levels. Real-time PCR suggests icariin may be involved in testosterone production via mRNA expression regulation of genes such as peripheral type benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Furthermore, 100 mg/kg icariin treatment also affected follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and claudin-11 mRNA expression in Sertoli cells. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in the testes; 50 and 100 mg/kg icariin treatment improved antioxidative capacity, while 200 mg/kg icariin treatment upregulated oxidative stress. These results collectively suggest that icariin within a certain dose range is beneficial to male reproductive functions; meanwhile, higher doses of icariin may damage reproductive functions by increasing oxidative stress in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoxin Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Jie Hao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Qiaozhen Yang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Gang Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Rasmussen MK, Ekstrand B, Zamaratskaia G. Regulation of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ⁵-Δ⁴ isomerase: a review. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:17926-42. [PMID: 24002028 PMCID: PMC3794760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140917926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Revised: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the expression and regulation of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-Δ4 isomerase (3β-HSD), with emphasis on the porcine version. 3β-HSD is often associated with steroidogenesis, but its function in the metabolism of both steroids and xenobiotics is more obscure. Based on currently available literature covering humans, rodents and pigs, this review provides an overview of the present knowledge concerning the regulatory mechanisms for 3β-HSD at all omic levels. The HSD isoenzymes are essential in steroid hormone metabolism, both in the synthesis and degradation of steroids. They display tissue-specific expression and factors influencing their activity, which therefore indicates their tissue-specific responses. 3β-HSD is involved in the synthesis of a number of natural steroid hormones, including progesterone and testosterone, and the hepatic degradation of the pheromone androstenone. In general, a number of signaling and regulatory pathways have been demonstrated to influence 3β-HSD transcription and activity, e.g., JAK-STAT, LH/hCG, ERα, AR, SF-1 and PPARα. The expression and enzymic activity of 3β-HSD are also influenced by external factors, such as dietary composition. Much of the research conducted on porcine 3β-HSD is motivated by its importance for the occurrence of the boar taint phenomenon that results from high concentrations of steroids such as androstenone. This topic is also examined in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bo Ekstrand
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark; E-Mail:
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +45-8715-7981; Fax: +45-8715-4891
| | - Galia Zamaratskaia
- Department of Food Science, BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail:
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Veldhuis JD, Liu PY, Takahashi PY, Keenan DM. Dynamic testosterone responses to near-physiological LH pulses are determined by the time pattern of prior intravenous LH infusion. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 303:E720-8. [PMID: 22811471 PMCID: PMC3468430 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00200.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The long-lived glycoprotein hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), downregulates testosterone (T) biosynthesis in vitro and in vivo in animals and humans. The degree to which short-lived pulses of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) do so, particularly at physiological concentrations, is not known. We test the hypothesis that continuous LH infusion compared with bolus injections of LH every 1 h or every 2 h overnight downregulates T secretory responses to a subsequent fixed template of three consecutive intravenous pulses of a physiological amount of recombinant human (rh) LH (triple stimulus). Nineteen healthy men ages 18-49 yr each underwent four separate randomly ordered overnight gonadotropin-releasing hormone-receptor antagonist treatments with superimposed intravenous infusions of saline or rhLH (1-h pulses, 2-h pulses, or continuously). Each 12-h infusion protocol was followed by the triple rhLH-pulse stimulus the next morning. During the triple stimulus, basal (nonpulsatile) as well as total (basal plus pulsatile) T secretion was higher after overnight 2- and 1-h rhLH pulses than after continuous rhLH or saline delivery. Approximate entropy, a probabilistic measure of feedforward-induced irregularity of T concentration time series, was higher after 1-h rhLH pulses than after continuous rhLH. Analytical estimation of pulsatile rhLH-T dose-response measures revealed higher T secretory sensitivity and greater rhLH potency (lower EC₅₀) after exposure to 1-h than 2-h rhLH pulses. Collectively, these data indicate that in vivo dynamics of LH-stimulated T secretion under standardized conditions in men depend on the prior time mode of LH delivery in the bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes D Veldhuis
- Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Center for Translational Science Activities, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Veldhuis JD, Liu PY, Keenan DM, Takahashi PY. Older men exhibit reduced efficacy of and heightened potency downregulation by intravenous pulses of recombinant human LH: a study in 92 healthy men. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 302:E117-22. [PMID: 21971523 PMCID: PMC3328086 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00450.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Direct sampling of the human spermatic veins has disclosed concomitant LH and testosterone (T) pulses, suggesting pulsatile LH concentration-dependent stimulation of T secretion. However, studies to date have examined this hypothesis using only pharmacological stimulation with hCG. The present study tests the hypothesis that age is marked by decreased T secretory responses to repeated near-physiological iv pulses of recombinant human LH administered in a Clinical Translational Science Center. Participants included 92 healthy men aged 18-75 yr with BMI 18-34 kg/m(2). The contribution of endogenous LH pulses was minimized by combined injection of a selective GnRH receptor antagonist sc and successive pulses of biosynthetic LH iv. A new analytical dose response model was applied to estimate the properties of exogenous LH's drive of T secretion. Regression of LH-T dose response potency estimates on age showed that the efficacy of pulses of biosynthetic LH progressively decreased with age (P = 0.014, r = 0.26). Testis sensitivity to exogenous LH pulses also declined with age (P = 0.011, r = 0.27). Moreover, estimated Leydig cell downregulation by LH pulses rose significantly with age (P = 0.039, r = 0.22). These outcomes were selective, since the recovery potency of infused LH was not affected by age but was reduced by increasing BMI (P = 0.011, r = 0.27). Assuming stable bioactivity of infused recombinant human LH, these novel data indicate that factors associated with age and BMI attenuate LH efficacy and testis sensitivity and augment Leydig cell downregulation in healthy men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes D Veldhuis
- Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Inhibitors of testosterone biosynthetic and metabolic activation enzymes. Molecules 2011; 16:9983-10001. [PMID: 22138857 PMCID: PMC6264586 DOI: 10.3390/molecules16129983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Revised: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The Leydig cells of the testis have the capacity to biosynthesize testosterone from cholesterol. Testosterone and its metabolically activated product dihydrotestosterone are critical for the development of male reproductive system and spermatogenesis. At least four steroidogenic enzymes are involved in testosterone biosynthesis: Cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1) for the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone within the mitochondria, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD3B), for the conversion of pregnenolone into progesterone, 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1) for the conversion of progesterone into androstenedione and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD17B3) for the formation of testosterone from androstenedione. Testosterone is also metabolically activated into more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone by two isoforms 5α-reductase 1 (SRD5A1) and 2 (SRD5A2) in Leydig cells and peripheral tissues. Many endocrine disruptors act as antiandrogens via directly inhibiting one or more enzymes for testosterone biosynthesis and metabolic activation. These chemicals include industrial materials (perfluoroalkyl compounds, phthalates, bisphenol A and benzophenone) and pesticides/biocides (methoxychlor, organotins, 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane and prochloraz) and plant constituents (genistein and gossypol). This paper reviews these endocrine disruptors targeting steroidogenic enzymes.
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Fukushima M, Villar J, Tsai-Morris CH, Dufau ML. Gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH/DDX25), a negative regulator of luteinizing/chorionic gonadotropin hormone-induced steroidogenesis in Leydig cells: central role of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). J Biol Chem 2011; 286:29932-40. [PMID: 21719703 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.236083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH/DDX25) is a testis-specific gonadotropin-regulated RNA helicase that is present in Leydig cells (LCs) and germ cells and is essential for spermatid development and completion of spermatogenesis. Normal basal levels of testosterone in serum and LCs were observed in GRTH null (GRTH(-/-)) mice. However, testosterone production was enhanced in LCs of GRTH(-/-) mice compared with WT mice by both in vivo and in vitro human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation. LCs of GRTH(-/-) mice had swollen mitochondria with a significantly increased cholesterol content in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Basal protein levels of SREBP2, HMG-CoA reductase, and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR; a protein that transports cholesterol to the inner mitochondrial membrane) were markedly increased in LCs of GRTH(-/-) mice compared with WT mice. Gonadotropin stimulation caused an increase in StAR mRNA levels and protein expression in GRTH(-/-) mice versus WT mice, with no further increase in SREBP2 and down-regulation of HMG-CoA reductase protein. The half-life of StAR mRNA was significantly increased in GRTH(-/-) mice. Moreover, association of StAR mRNA with GRTH protein was observed in WT mice. Human chorionic gonadotropin increased GRTH gene expression and its associated StAR protein at cytoplasmic sites. Taken together, these findings indicate that, through its negative role in StAR message stability, GRTH regulates cholesterol availability at the mitochondrial level. The finding of an inhibitory action of GRTH associated with gonadotropin-mediated steroidogenesis has provided insights into a novel negative autocrine molecular control mechanism of this helicase in the regulation of steroid production in the male.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masato Fukushima
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Program in Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4510, USA
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Rengarajan S, Balasubramanian K. Corticosterone induces steroidogenic lesion in cultured adult rat Leydig cells by reducing the expression of star protein and steroidogenic enzymes. J Cell Biochem 2008; 103:1472-87. [PMID: 17849416 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the dose-dependent direct effect of corticosterone on adult rat Leydig cell steroidogenesis in vitro. Leydig cells were isolated from the testis of normal adult male albino rats, purified on discontinuous Percoll gradient and plated in culture plates/flasks overnight at 34 degrees C in a CO(2) incubator under 95% air and 5% CO(2) using DME/F12 medium containing 1% fetal bovine serum. After the attachment of cells, serum-containing medium was removed and cells were exposed to different doses (0, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 nM) of corticosterone using serum-free fresh medium for 24 h at 34 degrees C. At the end of exposure period, cells were utilized for assessment of the activities and mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes (cytochrome P(450) side chain cleavage enzyme, 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and cytochrome P(450) aromatase) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein gene expression. Testosterone and estradiol production were also quantified. Activities of cytochrome P(450) side chain cleavage enzyme, 3beta- and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases were declined significantly in a dose-dependent manner after corticosterone exposure, while their mRNA expression were significantly reduced at higher doses of corticosterone exposure. The activity and mRNA expression of cytochrome P(450) aromatase registered a significant increase at 100 nM dose of corticosterone whereas at 200-800 nM doses both the activity as well as the mRNA levels was significantly reduced below the basal level. StAR protein gene expression was significantly inhibited by higher doses of corticosterone employed. At all doses employed, corticosterone significantly reduced the production of testosterone by Leydig cells, while estradiol level registered a significant increase at 50 and 100 nM doses but at higher doses, it registered a significant decrease when compared to basal level. It is concluded from the present in vitro study that the molecular mechanism by which corticosterone reduces the production of Leydig cell testosterone is by reducing the activities and mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasan Rengarajan
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM Post-Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600 113, India
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Yamamoto M, Narita A, Kagohata M, Shirai M, Akahori F, Arishima K. Effects of maternal exposure to 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126) or 3,3',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB169) on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in male offspring rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 26:205-14. [PMID: 15713826 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2005.tb01087.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
On days 7-21 of gestation, Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered 3 or 30 mug/kg/d of 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126) or 3,3',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB169) daily. Their male offspring were autopsied at 3, 6, and 15 weeks after birth to investigate the effects of the 2 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in their testes. PCB treatment caused a decrease in the area ratio of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD)-expressing cells (Leydig cells)/testis at 3 weeks after birth. When PCB126 was administered to pregnant rats, the plasma testosterone levels in their offspring were decreased at 3 weeks. The expression levels of P450scc, 3beta-HSD, and P450(17alpha) mitochondrial RNAs (mRNAs) were unchanged, although the StAR (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein) mRNA expression level was increased at 6 weeks. On the other hand, when PCB169 was administered, plasma testosterone levels were decreased at 3 and 6 weeks and were increased at 15 weeks. Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were decreased at 6 weeks, and plasma follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were increased at 15 weeks. The expression levels of 3beta-HSD and P450(17alpha) were increased, and the mRNA level of 5alpha-reductase 1 was decreased at 15 weeks. PCB169 treatment suppressed the conversion of round spermatids between stages VII and VIII. These results indicate that in utero and lactational exposure to PCB126 or PCB169 decreases plasma testosterone levels in 3-week-old rats, with no change in the expression levels of the mRNAs of enzymes, and that PCB169 inhibits testicular steroid synthesis more strongly than PCB126. PCB169 greatly altered the concentration of testosterone, indicating a stronger inhibitory effect on spermatogenesis. Low testosterone and LH levels in prenatally PCB169-exposed rats until 6 weeks after birth presumably retard the functional differentiation of testicular Leydig cells; however, the increased testosterone levels at 15 weeks suggest that Leydig cells in PCB-exposed rats are virtually mature by the 15th week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Yamamoto
- Department of Anatomy II, Azabu University School of Veterinary Medicine, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 229-8501, Japan.
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Simard J, Ricketts ML, Gingras S, Soucy P, Feltus FA, Melner MH. Molecular biology of the 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/delta5-delta4 isomerase gene family. Endocr Rev 2005; 26:525-82. [PMID: 15632317 DOI: 10.1210/er.2002-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 394] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Delta(5)-Delta(4) isomerase (3beta-HSD) isoenzymes are responsible for the oxidation and isomerization of Delta(5)-3beta-hydroxysteroid precursors into Delta(4)-ketosteroids, thus catalyzing an essential step in the formation of all classes of active steroid hormones. In humans, expression of the type I isoenzyme accounts for the 3beta-HSD activity found in placenta and peripheral tissues, whereas the type II 3beta-HSD isoenzyme is predominantly expressed in the adrenal gland, ovary, and testis, and its deficiency is responsible for a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Phylogeny analyses of the 3beta-HSD gene family strongly suggest that the need for different 3beta-HSD genes occurred very late in mammals, with subsequent evolution in a similar manner in other lineages. Therefore, to a large extent, the 3beta-HSD gene family should have evolved to facilitate differential patterns of tissue- and cell-specific expression and regulation involving multiple signal transduction pathways, which are activated by several growth factors, steroids, and cytokines. Recent studies indicate that HSD3B2 gene regulation involves the orphan nuclear receptors steroidogenic factor-1 and dosage-sensitive sex reversal adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on the X chromosome gene 1 (DAX-1). Other findings suggest a potential regulatory role for STAT5 and STAT6 in transcriptional activation of HSD3B2 promoter. It was shown that epidermal growth factor (EGF) requires intact STAT5; on the other hand IL-4 induces HSD3B1 gene expression, along with IL-13, through STAT 6 activation. However, evidence suggests that multiple signal transduction pathways are involved in IL-4 mediated HSD3B1 gene expression. Indeed, a better understanding of the transcriptional factors responsible for the fine control of 3beta-HSD gene expression may provide insight into mechanisms involved in the functional cooperation between STATs and nuclear receptors as well as their potential interaction with other signaling transduction pathways such as GATA proteins. Finally, the elucidation of the molecular basis of 3beta-HSD deficiency has highlighted the fact that mutations in the HSD3B2 gene can result in a wide spectrum of molecular repercussions, which are associated with the different phenotypic manifestations of classical 3beta-HSD deficiency and also provide valuable information concerning the structure-function relationships of the 3beta-HSD superfamily. Furthermore, several recent studies using type I and type II purified enzymes have elegantly further characterized structure-function relationships responsible for kinetic differences and coenzyme specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Simard
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, T3-57, Laval University Medical Center (CHUL) Research Center, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, Canada.
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Piaditis G, Angellou A, Kontogeorgos G, Mazarakis N, Kounadi T, Kaltsas G, Vamvakidis K, Lloyd RV, Horvath E, Kovacs K. Ectopic bioactive luteinizing hormone secretion by a pancreatic endocrine tumor, manifested as luteinized granulosa-thecal cell tumor of the ovaries. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005; 90:2097-103. [PMID: 15687346 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2003-032029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine pancreatic tumors are rare neoplasms consisting of multipotent cells capable of secreting various bioactive substances causing characteristic clinical syndromes. Ovarian stromal hyperthecosis is characterized by varying degrees of luteinized stromal cell proliferation after sustained LH and/or human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation, clinically manifested by symptoms/signs of virilization resembling the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We report a case of ectopic bioactive LH production from a pancreatic endocrine tumor in a 33-yr-old woman with rapidly developing symptoms/signs of hyperandrogenism and markedly elevated serum androgen and LH levels leading to hyperthecosis and bilateral luteinized granulosa-thecal cell tumors of the ovaries. Although the patient was initially thought to have either severe PCOS or an LH-secreting pituitary tumor, an LH-producing pancreatic endocrine tumor bearing somatostatin receptors was demonstrated on scintigraphy with [111In]octreotide and abdominal imaging. Symptoms and signs of hyperandrogenism resolved after the resection of the tumor. Immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and electron microscopy studies confirmed LH synthesis by the tumor cell. Although extremely rare, ectopic LH production from nonpituitary endocrine tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hyperandrogenism, particularly when associated with highly elevated serum LH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Piaditis
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, KOFKA Building, 1st Floor, G. Gennimatas General Hospital of Athens, 154 Messogion Avenue, 115 27 Athens, Greece.
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15
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Samson M, Peale FV, Frantz G, Rioux-Leclercq N, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Ferrara N. Human endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor: expression early in development and in Leydig cell tumors suggests roles in normal and pathological testis angiogenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2004; 89:4078-88. [PMID: 15292351 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2003-032024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth and metastasis. A new human angiogenic mitogen, endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF), has been recently identified; its expression pattern is restricted to endocrine glands, with the highest expression in testis. We used in situ hybridization and newly generated monoclonal antibodies to investigate the expression of EG-VEGF in normal human prenatal and adult testis and in 48 human testicular tumors of different subtypes. We found that EG-VEGF was expressed from 14 wk until birth in human fetal testis. In the adult testis, EG-VEGF was strongly expressed only in Leydig cells. In testicular tumors, EG-VEGF was expressed specifically in Leydig cell tumors, whereas germ cell-derived neoplasms, including carcinoma in situ, seminoma, and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors, were negative for this antigen. In contrast, VEGF, another powerful angiogenic factor, was expressed in seminoma, but very weakly in Leydig cell tumors. Interestingly, we found that Leydig cell tumors presented vessel surface density 3.2-fold higher than seminoma. These findings argue that human EG-VEGF may play a role in angiogenesis both during the early endocrine development of testis and in the adult testis as well as in Leydig cell tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Samson
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
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Kazeto Y, Ijiri S, Matsubara H, Adachi S, Yamauchi K. Molecular cloning and characterization of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Delta5-Delta4 isomerase cDNAs from Japanese eel ovary. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2003; 85:49-56. [PMID: 12798356 DOI: 10.1016/s0960-0760(03)00138-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Delta(5)-Delta(4) isomerase (3beta-HSD) is a crucial steroidogenic enzyme which catalyzes an essential step in the biosynthesis of all classes of steroid hormones. Two closely related cDNAs, encoding Japanese eel ovarian types I and II 3beta-HSD, were cloned and characterized. Both cDNAs putatively encoded 375 amino acid residues sharing high sequence homology with those of rainbow trout (71%) and mammalian (approximately 45-50%) 3beta-HSD. Transient expression of types I and II 3beta-HSD in COS-7 cells revealed that both proteins possess 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase as well as Delta(5)-Delta(4) isomerase activity for both pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone, with the preference of pregnenolone over dehydroepiandrosterone as substrate, although the type I protein is more active than the type II. By northern blot analysis, a single band of the 3beta-HSD transcript of approximately 1.5kb in length was observed in ovarian tissue and the total transcript abundance of both 3beta-HSDs remained constant throughout ovarian development artificially induced by gonadotropin-rich salmon pituitary homogenate. This lack of change in 3beta-HSD transcript abundance during ovarian development did not correlate with the fluctuation of its enzymatic activity reported previously, which may suggest that changes in 3beta-HSD activity during ovarian development may be, in part, post-transcriptionally regulated in the Japanese eel ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukinori Kazeto
- Division of Marine Biosciences, Graduate School of Fisheries Science, Hokkaido University, 3-1-1 Minato-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 041-8611, Japan.
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Tang PZ, Tsai-Morris CH, Dufau ML. Cloning and characterization of a hormonally regulated rat long chain acyl-CoA synthetase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2001; 98:6581-6. [PMID: 11381125 PMCID: PMC34396 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.121046998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A previously unidentified gonadotropin-regulated long chain acyl-CoA synthetase (GR-LACS) was cloned and characterized as a 79-kDa cytoplasmic protein expressed in Leydig cells of the rat testis. GR-LACS shares sequence identity with two conserved regions of the LACS and luciferase families, including the ATP/AMP binding domain and the 25-aa fatty acyl-CoA synthetase signature motif, but displays low overall amino acid similarities (23-28%). GR-LACS mRNA is expressed abundantly in Leydig cells of the adult testis and to a lesser degree in the seminiferous tubules in spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. It is also observed in ovary and brain. Immunoreactive protein expression was observed mainly in Leydig cells and minimally in the tubules but was not detected in other tissues. In vivo, treatment with a desensitizing dose of human chorionic gonadotropin caused transcriptional down-regulation of GR-LACS expression in Leydig cells. The expressed protein present in the cytoplasm of transfected cells displayed acyl-CoA synthetase activity for long chain fatty acid substrates. GR-LACS may contribute to the provision of energy requirements and to the biosynthesis of steroid precursors and could participate through acyl-CoA's multiple functions in the regulation of the male gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Z Tang
- Section of Molecular Endocrinology, Endocrinology and Reproduction Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Tang PZ, Tsai-Morris CH, Dufau ML. A novel gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase. A new member of the dead-box family. J Biol Chem 1999; 274:37932-40. [PMID: 10608860 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.53.37932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH) was identified and characterized. GRTH cloned from rat Leydig cell, mouse testis, and human testis cDNA libraries is a novel member of the DEAD-box protein family. GRTH is transcriptionally up-regulated by chorionic gonadotropin via cyclic AMP-induced androgen formation in the Leydig cell. It has ATPase and RNA helicase activities and increases translation in vitro. This helicase is highly expressed in rat, mouse, and human testes and weakly expressed in the pituitary and hypothalamus. GRTH is produced in both somatic (Leydig cells) and germinal (meiotic spermatocytes and round haploid spermatids) cells and is developmentally regulated. GRTH predominantly localized in the cytoplasm may function as a translational activator. This novel helicase could be relevant to the control of steroidogenesis and the paracrine regulation of androgen-dependent spermatogenesis in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Z Tang
- Section of Molecular Endocrinology, NICHHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Tsai-Morris CH, Khanum A, Tang PZ, Dufau ML. The rat 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type III: molecular cloning and gonadotropin regulation. Endocrinology 1999; 140:3534-42. [PMID: 10433209 DOI: 10.1210/endo.140.8.6944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
17Beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17betaHSD), the enzyme that catalyzes the final step of testosterone biosynthesis in the testis, was cloned from a rat Leydig cell complementary DNA library to gain insights into the functional requirements, activation mechanisms, and molecular regulation. The 17betaHSD complementary DNA encoded 306 amino acids (molecular mass of 33.7 kDa) and displayed 75% and 85% amino acid sequence homology to the human and mouse 17betaHSD type III enzymes, respectively. Northern analysis revealed a single 1.4-kb messenger RNA (mRNA) species in rat Leydig cells, whereas ovarian mRNA was detected only by RT-PCR amplification. The cloned 17betaHSD expressed in mammalian cell lines specifically catalyzed the reductive reaction in androgen formation with androstenedione as the preferred substrate. This reaction was significantly reduced in the absence of glucose. Expression of the endogenous 17betaHSD gene in rat Leydig cells was inhibited by a single dose of hCG in vivo, with maximum reduction of steady state mRNA levels at 24 h and recovery at 9 days. Such agonist-induced down-regulation of 17betaHSD expression, which preceded the marked reduction of LH receptors, resulted from changes at the transcriptional level and was accompanied by loss of enzymatic activity. These studies have demonstrated a glucose requirement for optimal activity of the enzyme in vitro and for a role of gonadotropin in regulating the expression of 17betaHSD gene in vivo. Cloning of the 17betaHSD type III enzyme from rat Leydig cells will facilitate further investigation of the molecular regulation of its activity in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Tsai-Morris
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Endocrinology and Reproduction Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4510, USA
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