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Radomsky T, Anderson RC, Millar RP, Newton CL. Restoring function to inactivating G protein-coupled receptor variants in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis 1. J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13418. [PMID: 38852954 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are central to the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) and include the rhodopsin-like GPCR family members, neurokinin 3 receptor, kappa-opioid receptor, kisspeptin 1 receptor, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the gonadotropin receptors, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor. Unsurprisingly, inactivating variants of these receptors have been implicated in a spectrum of reproductive phenotypes, including failure to undergo puberty, and infertility. Clinical induction of puberty in patients harbouring such variants is possible, but restoration of fertility is not always a realisable outcome, particularly for those patients suffering from primary hypogonadism. Thus, novel pharmaceuticals and/or a fundamental change in approach to treating these patients are required. The increasing wealth of data describing the effects of coding-region genetic variants on GPCR function has highlighted that the majority appear to be dysfunctional as a result of misfolding of the encoded receptor protein, which, in turn, results in impaired receptor trafficking through the secretory pathway to the cell surface. As such, these intracellularly retained receptors may be amenable to 'rescue' using a pharmacological chaperone (PC)-based approach. PCs are small, cell permeant molecules hypothesised to interact with misfolded intracellularly retained proteins, stabilising their folding and promoting their trafficking through the secretory pathway. In support of the use of this approach as a viable therapeutic option, it has been observed that many rescued variant GPCRs retain at least a degree of functionality when 'rescued' to the cell surface. In this review, we examine the GPCR PC research landscape, focussing on the rescue of inactivating variant GPCRs with important roles in the HPG axis, and describe what is known regarding the mechanisms by which PCs restore trafficking and function. We also discuss some of the merits and obstacles associated with taking this approach forward into a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarryn Radomsky
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Deng R, Wang J, He J, Lei X, Zi D, Nong W, Lei X. GnRH antagonist protocol versus progestin-primed ovarian stimulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:1151-1163. [PMID: 37957365 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07269-1] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this meta-analysis was comparing the efficacy of GnRH antagonist (GnRH-ant) protocol and progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) women. METHODS A search was conducted from PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases to collect clinical papers regarding GnRH-ant protocol and PPOS protocol from inception to September 2023. Subsequently, the retrieved documents were screened, and the content of the documents that conformed to the requirements was extracted. Moreover, statistical meta-analyses were conducted using the RevMan 5.4 software. Furthermore, with the use of a star-based system and the Cochrane handbook, the methodological quality of the covered papers was evaluated on the Ottawa-Newcastle scale. RESULTS A total of eight papers were covered in the meta-analysis, with 2156 PCOS women enrolled (i.e., 1085 patients in the GnRH-ant protocol group and 1071 patients in the PPOS group). As indicated by the meta-analysis results, the PPOS group was correlated with a lower risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (SMD = 9.24, [95% CI: (2.50, 34.21)], P = 0.0009), more gonadotropin (Gn) dose (SMD = - 0.34, [95% CI: (- 0.56, - 0.13)], P = 0.002) compared with GnRH-ant group. No statistical difference was identified on the oocytes condition and pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS As revealed by the data of this study, the progesterone protocol is comparable with the GnRH-ant protocol in oocytes condition and clinical outcomes. The progestin-primed ovarian stimulation could serve as an alternative for polycystic ovarian syndrome women who have failed in GnRH antagonist protocol. The above-described conclusions should be verified by more high-quality papers due to the limitation of the number and quality of included papers. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration: CRD42023411284.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renhe Deng
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533300, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinyuan Wang
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Junhui He
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Lei
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Zi
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Weihua Nong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533300, Guangxi, China.
| | - Xiaocan Lei
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China.
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Dignam JP, Sharma S, Stasinopoulos I, MacLean MR. Pulmonary arterial hypertension: Sex matters. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:938-966. [PMID: 37939796 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16277] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex disease of multifactorial origin. While registries have demonstrated that women are more susceptible to the disease, females with PAH have superior right ventricle (RV) function and a better prognosis than their male counterparts, a phenomenon referred to as the 'estrogen paradox'. Numerous pre-clinical studies have investigated the involvement of sex hormones in PAH pathobiology, often with conflicting results. However, recent advances suggest that abnormal estrogen synthesis, metabolism and signalling underpin the sexual dimorphism of this disease. Other sex hormones, such as progesterone, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone may also play a role. Several non-hormonal factor including sex chromosomes and epigenetics have also been implicated. Though the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are complex, several compounds that modulate sex hormones levels and signalling are under investigation in PAH patients. Further elucidation of the estrogen paradox will set the stage for the identification of additional therapeutic targets for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Dignam
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Smriti Sharma
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Ioannis Stasinopoulos
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Edinburgh Clinical Research Facility, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Margaret R MacLean
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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Tang D, Song X, Du Y, Wang J, Lei Y, Chen B. Development of a reporter gene-based assay for the bioactivity determination of rhLH pharmaceutical products. Anal Biochem 2024; 686:115413. [PMID: 38040174 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2023.115413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
To establish an in vitro biological activity detection method for luteinizing hormone (LH), the hLHCGR-CREB-HEK293 cell line was constructed to stably express human luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (hLHCGR). After optimization, the rhLH starting working concentration was 800 mIU/mL with 4-fold serial dilutions, 10 concentrations and an incubation time of 5 h. The method was confirmed to be highly specific, with good accuracy, precision and linearity, meeting the needs of process research and release testing, and can be used as a routine detection method for LH biological activity. With the increasing demand for research and development of rhLH biologically similar drugs, establishing a stable and simple activity assay method to evaluate the biological activity of rhLH can provide technical support for quality control of rhLH products and powerful tools for comparability research of similar products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defang Tang
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Xiufang Song
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yanjiao Du
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yuqing Lei
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Chengdu Jingze Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, No.1166 Shuangyan Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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Ducreux B, Patrat C, Trasler J, Fauque P. Transcriptomic integrity of human oocytes used in ARTs: technical and intrinsic factor effects. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:26-47. [PMID: 37697674 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of children have been born throughout the world thanks to ARTs, the harmlessness of which has not yet been fully demonstrated. For years, efforts to evaluate the specific effects of ART have focused on the embryo; however, it is the oocyte quality that mainly dictates first and foremost the developmental potential of the future embryo. Ovarian stimulation, cryopreservation, and IVM are sometimes necessary steps to obtain a mature oocyte, but they could alter the appropriate expression of the oocyte genome. Additionally, it is likely that female infertility, environmental factors, and lifestyle have a significant influence on oocyte transcriptomic quality, which may interfere with the outcome of an ART attempt. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to identify transcriptomic changes in the human oocyte caused by interventions specific to ART but also intrinsic factors such as age, reproductive health issues, and lifestyle. We also provide recommendations for future good practices to be conducted when attempting ART. SEARCH METHODS An in-depth literature search was performed on PubMed to identify studies assessing the human oocyte transcriptome following ART interventions, or in the context of maternal aging, suboptimal lifestyle, or reproductive health issues. OUTCOMES ART success is susceptible to external factors, maternal aging, lifestyle factors (smoking, BMI), and infertility due to endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome. Indeed, all of these are likely to increase oxidative stress and alter mitochondrial processes in the foreground. Concerning ART techniques themselves, there is evidence that different ovarian stimulation regimens shape the oocyte transcriptome. The perturbation of processes related to the mitochondrion, oxidative phosphorylation, and metabolism is observed with IVM. Cryopreservation might dysregulate genes belonging to transcriptional regulation, ubiquitination, cell cycle, and oocyte growth pathways. For other ART laboratory factors such as temperature, oxygen tension, air pollution, and light, the evidence remains scarce. Focusing on genes involved in chromatin-based processes such as DNA methylation, heterochromatin modulation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling complexes, but also genomic imprinting, we observed systematic dysregulation of such genes either after ART intervention or lifestyle exposure, as well as due to internal factors such as maternal aging and reproductive diseases. Alteration in the expression of such epigenetic regulators may be a common mechanism linked to adverse oocyte environments, explaining global transcriptomic modifications. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Many IVF factors and additional external factors have the potential to impair oocyte transcriptomic integrity, which might not be innocuous for the developing embryo. Fortunately, it is likely that such dysregulations can be minimized by adapting ART protocols or reducing adverse exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Ducreux
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comtés-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
| | - Catherine Patrat
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculty of Medicine, Inserm 1016, Paris, France
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, aphp.centre-Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comtés-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Dijon, France
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Lu C, Peng D, Erandani WCKU, Mitchell K, Martyniuk CJ, Trudeau VL. Simultaneous extraction and detection of peptides, steroids, and proteins in small tissue samples. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1266985. [PMID: 37876537 PMCID: PMC10593444 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1266985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The detection and quantification of hormones are important to assess the reproductive and stress status of experimental models and for the diagnosis of diseases in human and veterinary clinics. Traditionally, steroid, peptide, and protein hormones are analyzed in individual experiments using different extraction methodologies. With the new advancement on HPLC sorbents, the simultaneous measurement of hormones from different categories becomes possible. In this study, we present a novel sample processing strategy for the simultaneous extraction and detection of peptides, steroids, and proteins using high-resolution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We demonstrate the sensitivity of our method for small tissues by acquiring data from brain, pituitary gland, and gonads of single zebrafish samples. This approach promises to shed light on the hormonal pathways and their interrelationships, providing knowledge on the integration of hormone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Lu
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Di Peng
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Di Marco F, Blümel G, Blöchl C, Wuhrer M, Huber CG. A semi-automated hybrid HPLC-MS approach for in-depth characterization of intact non-covalent heterodimer glycoforms of gonadotropin biopharmaceuticals. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1274:341574. [PMID: 37455084 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotropins are a class of heavily glycosylated protein hormones, thus extremely challenging to characterize by mass spectrometry. As biopharmaceuticals, gonadotropins are prescribed for the treatment of infertility and are derived from different sources: either from pooled urine of pregnant women or upon production in genetically modified Chinese Hamster Ovary cells. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is sold as a biopharmaceutical under the name Pregnyl® (urinary hCG, u-hCG) and Ovitrelle® (recombinant hCG, r-hCG), and recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) is marketed as Gonal-f®. Recently, we reported the exhaustive characterization of r-hCG at different structural levels. RESULTS We implement size exclusion (SE) HPLC-MS to automatize the acquisition of native mass spectra of r-hCG dimer, but also u-hCG and r-hFSH, comparing the drug products up to intact heterodimer level. A hybrid HPLC-MS approach was employed for the characterization of r-hCG, u-hCG and r-hFSH drug products at different structural levels. Released glycans were analyzed by porous graphitized carbon (PGC)-HPLC-MS/MS, glycopeptides by reversed-phase (RP)-HPLC-MS/MS, subunits by RP-HPLC-MS and finally the intact native heterodimers by semi-automated online buffer exchange SE-HPLC-MS. The data were integrated using bioinformatic tools, to finally unravel the composition of 1481 co-existing dimeric glycoforms for r-hCG, 1167 glycoforms for u-hCG, and 1440 glycoforms for r-hFSH, and to compare critical quality attributes of the different drug products such as their degree of sialylation and O-glycosylation. SIGNIFICANCE AND NOVELTY The strong alliance of bioanalytics and bioinformatics data integration at the different structural levels allowed the identification of more than thousand different glycoforms of r-hCG, u-hCG, and r-hFSH. The results showed that these biopharmaceuticals differ considerably in their glycosylation patterns and highlight the importance of in-depth characterization of biopharmaceuticals for quality control. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Di Marco
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Gabriele Blümel
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Constantin Blöchl
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Manfred Wuhrer
- Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Christian G Huber
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
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Loncová B, Fabová Z, Mlynček M, Sirotkin AV. Assessment of Epiregulin Effect and its Combination with Gonadotropins on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Secretory Activity by Human Ovarian Cells. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z. [PMID: 36881337 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The release of epidermal growth factor ligand epiregulin (EREG) by human ovarian granulosa cells, its direct action on basic ovarian cell functions, and interrelationships with gonadotropins were investigated. We examined (1) the ovarian production of EREG (the time-dependent accumulation of EREG in the medium incubated with human ovarian granulosa cells, and (2) the effect of the addition of EREG (0, 1, 10, and 100 ng.ml-1) given alone or in combination with FSH or LH (100 ng.ml-1) on basic granulosa cells functions. Viability, proliferation (accumulation of PCNA and cyclin B1) and apoptosis (accumulation of bax and caspase 3), the release of steroid hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were analyzed by using the Trypan blue exclusion test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and ELISA. A significant time-dependent accumulation of EREG in a medium cultured with human granulosa cells with a peak at 3 and 4 days was observed. The addition of EREG alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol release, decreased apoptosis, bud did not affect PGE2 release. The addition of either FSH or LH alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and PGE2 release and decreased apoptosis. Furthermore, both FSH and LH mostly promoted the stimulatory action of EREG on granulosa cell functions. These results demonstrated, that EREG produced by ovarian cells can be an autocrine/paracrine stimulator of human ovarian cell functions. Furthermore, they demonstrate the functional interrelationship between EREG and gonadotropins in the control of ovarian functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Loncová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia.
| | - Zuzana Fabová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Mlynček
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
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Zhang L, Lang H, Ran L, Tian G, Shen H, Zhu J, Zhang Q, Yi L, Mi M. Long-term high loading intensity of aerobic exercise improves skeletal muscle performance via the gut microbiota-testosterone axis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1049469. [PMID: 36620003 PMCID: PMC9811821 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1049469] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise is reported to play a crucial role in skeletal muscle performance. However, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. Thus, we investigated the effect of high-intensity aerobic exercise on skeletal muscle performance. In this study, the male C57BL/6J mice were accepted by high-intensity aerobic exercise for 8 weeks to establish an exercise model. It was observed that high-intensity aerobic exercise markedly affected the expression of genes in skeletal muscle. Moreover, high-intensity aerobic exercise significantly improved skeletal muscle grip strength and serum testosterone levels. HE staining showed that the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the skeletal muscle was successfully increased after 8 weeks of high-intensity aerobic exercise. Additionally, we found that high-intensity aerobic exercise changed gut microbiota structure by altering the abundance of Akkermansia, Allobaculum, and Lactobacillus, which might be related to testosterone production. However, the beneficial effects disappeared after the elimination of the gut microbiota and recovered after fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments for 1 week. These results indicated that the beneficial effects of high-intensity aerobic exercise on skeletal muscle were partly dependent on the gut microbiota. Our results suggested that long-term high loading intensity of aerobic exercise could improve skeletal muscle performance, which was probably due to the gut microbiota-testosterone axis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Long Yi
- *Correspondence: Long Yi, ; Mantian Mi,
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Pallotti F, Barbonetti A, Rastrelli G, Santi D, Corona G, Lombardo F. The impact of male factors and their correct and early diagnosis in the infertile couple's pathway: 2021 perspectives. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1807-1822. [PMID: 35349114 PMCID: PMC8961097 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01778-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The current clinical practice in reproductive medicine should pose the couple at the centre of the diagnostic-therapeutic management of infertility and requires intense collaboration between the andrologist, the gynaecologist and the embryologist. The andrologist, in particular, to adequately support the infertile couple, must undertake important biological, psychological, economical and ethical task. Thus, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted role of the andrologist in the study of male factor infertility. METHODS A comprehensive Medline, Embase and Cochrane search was performed including publications between 1969 and 2021. RESULTS Available evidence indicates that a careful medical history and physical examination, followed by semen analysis, always represent the basic starting points of the diagnostic work up in male partner of an infertile couple. Regarding treatment, gonadotropins are an effective treatment in case of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and FSH may be used in men with idiopathic infertility, while evidence supporting other hormonal and nonhormonal treatments is either limited or conflicting. In the future, pharmacogenomics of FSHR and FSHB as well as innovative compounds may be considered to develop new therapeutic strategies in the management of infertility. CONCLUSION To provide a high-level of care, the andrologist must face several critical diagnostical and therapeutical steps. Even though ART may be the final and decisive stage of this decisional network, neglecting to treat the male partner may ultimately increase the risks of negative outcome, as well as costs and psychological burden for the couple itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - G Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi Hospital-Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - D Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl Bologna, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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11
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Lee HS, Shim YS, Hwang JS. Treatment of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in male patients. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 27:176-182. [PMID: 36203268 PMCID: PMC9537667 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2244208.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is characterized by complete or partial failure of pubertal development because of inadequate secretion of gonadotropic hormones. CHH consists of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with anosmia or hyposmia, Kallmann syndrome, and the normosmic variation normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. CHH is one of the few treatable diseases of male infertility, although men with primary testicular dysfunction have irreversibly diminished spermatogenic capacity. The approach to CHH treatment is determined by goals such as developing virilization or inducing fertility. This review focuses on the current knowledge of therapeutic modalities for inducing puberty and fertility in men with CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Sang Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea,Address for correspondence: Hae Sang Lee Ajou University School of Medicine, Depar tment of Pediatrics, 5-1 Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon 16499 Korea
| | - Young Suk Shim
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea
| | - Jin Soon Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea
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12
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Wang SM, Wang Q, Ye LY, Chen SX, Tao L, Yang ZS. Effects of hCG on DA neuronal death of Parkinson's disease. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 617:41-47. [PMID: 35689841 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.05.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide, with the incidence in men being about twice as compared to women. Gender differences may provide clues for finding key targets that mediate the death of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in PD. Luteinizing hormone (LH), analog of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and their receptor, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), are associated with the pathogenesis of PD. Movement-related symptoms are partially improved by hCG in PD patients. However, the relationship between hCG and PD, as well as its roles in mediating DA neuronal death, has not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the potential of hCG as a treatment during PD progression. After establishment of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mouse models, we found that hCG restored the decrease of LHCGR activity caused by down-regulation of LH in the substantia nigra. Furthermore, the reduction of LHCGR activity led to DA neuronal death through knocking down the LHCGR in DA neurons by AAV-mTH-shRNA. Treatment with hCG alleviated the DA neuronal death induced by MPTP. Finally, hCG exerted neuroprotective effects by inhibiting the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) in our MPTP-induced PD mouse and MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cell models. Together, these results demonstrate that hCG exerts neuroprotective effects for PD through LHCGR, and the inhibition of GSK3β activation is involved in this protective effect, suggesting that hCG can be taken as a potential therapeutic for the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Min Wang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China; The First Affiliated Hospital (School of Clinical Medicine), Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Li-Yan Ye
- The First Affiliated Hospital (School of Clinical Medicine), Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shao-Xia Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Liang Tao
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Zhao-Shou Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital (School of Clinical Medicine), Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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13
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Yang B, Gong J, Jing J, Hao Y, Li S, Liu G, Feng Z, Zhao G. Effects of Zinc Methionine Hydroxy Analog Chelate on Laying Performance, Serum Hormone Levels, and Expression of Reproductive Axis Related Genes in Aged Broiler Breeders. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:918283. [PMID: 35859808 PMCID: PMC9289673 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.918283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inorganic zinc (Zn) supplements are commonly used in poultry feeds, but their low utilization results in the increase of Zn excretion. Thus, to provide a new perspective for the substitution of inorganic Zn, a novel Zn methionine hydroxy analog chelate (Zn-MHA) was studied in the present study to evaluate its effects on laying performance, serum hormone indexes and reproductive axis-related genes in broilers breeders. A total of 480 Hubbard breeders (56-week-old) were fed a basal diet (containing 27.81 mg Zn/kg) without Zn addition for 2 weeks, and then allocated to 4 groups with 6 replicates (each replicate consisting of 10 cages and 2 breeders per cage) for 10 weeks. Four treatment diets given to broiler breeders included the basal diet added with 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg of Zn-MHA and 100 mg/kg of Zn sulfate (ZnSO4). The laying rate, egg weight and feed conversation ratio increased in the 75 mg/kg Zn-MHA group compared to the ZnSO4 group. The eggshell thickness was not decreased with the addition of 50 mg/kg and 75 mg/kg Zn-MHA in the diet compared to the 100 mg/kg ZnSO4 group. There was a significant improvement in the reproductive performance of breeders in the 75 mg/kg Zn-MHA group, including the fertility and 1-day-old offspring weight. Besides, serum sex hormone levels including FSH and P4 increased significantly in 75 mg/kg Zn-MHA group. No significant effect on the ovarian weight or the number of follicles in broiler breeders was observed by supplementing Zn-MHA. Compared to the 100 mg/kg ZnSO4 group, dietary supplementation with 75 mg/kg of Zn-MHA showed an up-regulation of the FSHR mRNA in the granular layer of follicles. However, dietary supplementation of Zn-MHA had no effects on mRNA expressions of the ovarian LHR and PRLR genes. These findings reinforce the suggestion that Zn-MHA (75 mg/kg) could replace ZnSO4 (100 mg/kg) as a Zn supplement in diet of broiler breeders, which resulted in better laying and reproduction performances by regulating the expression levels of reproductive axis related genes and serum hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Jiangang Gong
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Jialin Jing
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yanshuang Hao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Shupeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Guanzhong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
- *Correspondence: Zhihua Feng
| | - Guoxian Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
- Guoxian Zhao
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14
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Anderson RA, Millar RP. The roles of kisspeptin and neurokinin B in GnRH pulse generation in humans, and their potential clinical application. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13081. [PMID: 34962670 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The delivery of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in a pulsatile mode to the gonadotropes has long been known to be essential for normal reproductive function. There have been numerous studies aimed at dissecting out the mechanisms underlying GnRH pulse generation. The discovery of kisspeptin as an upstream regulator of GnRH attracted the possibility that pulsatile kisspeptin governed the pulsatile secretion of GnRH. Subsequent studies have shown the importance of the neurokinin B (NKB) system in modulating kisspeptin secretion and this GnRH. A number of studies in laboratory rodents have supported this notion. By contrast, we present data from clinical studies in men and women, in a range of contexts, showing that continuous infusion of kisspeptin 10 at receptor-saturating levels gives rise to an increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) (GnRH) pulse frequency. This has been demonstrated in normal healthy and hypogonadal men, in normal women during the mid-cycle LH surge, in men and women with mutations in the genes encoding NKB or its receptor, neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R), in women with polycystic ovary syndrome treated with NK3R antagonist, and in women treated with NK3R antagonist during the LH surge. These finds indicate that pulsatile secretion and action of kisspeptin on GnRH neurons is not required for the generation of LH (GnRH) pulses in humans. We also report that there is an absence of desensitization in humans exposed to continuous infusion of kisspeptin-10 at receptor-saturating concentrations over 22 h and briefly review GnRH, kisspeptin and NKB analogs and their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Robert P Millar
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Observatory, South Africa
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15
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Vigil P, Meléndez J, Petkovic G, Del Río JP. The importance of estradiol for body weight regulation in women. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:951186. [PMID: 36419765 PMCID: PMC9677105 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.951186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity in women of reproductive age has a number of adverse metabolic effects, including Type II Diabetes (T2D), dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. It is associated with increased menstrual irregularity, ovulatory dysfunction, development of insulin resistance and infertility. In women, estradiol is not only critical for reproductive function, but they also control food intake and energy expenditure. Food intake is known to change during the menstrual cycle in humans. This change in food intake is largely mediated by estradiol, which acts directly upon anorexigenic and orexigenic neurons, largely in the hypothalamus. Estradiol also acts indirectly with peripheral mediators such as glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Like estradiol, GLP-1 acts on receptors at the hypothalamus. This review describes the physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms governing the actions of estradiol during the menstrual cycle on food intake and energy expenditure and how estradiol acts with other weight-controlling molecules such as GLP-1. GLP-1 analogs have proven to be effective both to manage obesity and T2D in women. This review also highlights the relationship between steroid hormones and women's mental health. It explains how a decline or imbalance in estradiol levels affects insulin sensitivity in the brain. This can cause cerebral insulin resistance, which contributes to the development of conditions such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. The proper use of both estradiol and GLP-1 analogs can help to manage obesity and preserve an optimal mental health in women by reducing the mechanisms that trigger neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Vigil
- Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), Santiago, Chile
| | - Jaime Meléndez
- Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), Santiago, Chile
| | - Grace Petkovic
- Arrowe Park Hospital, Department of Paediatrics, Wirral CH49 5PE, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Pablo Del Río
- Unidad de Psiquiatría Infantil y del Adolescente, Clínica Psiquiátrica Universitaria, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus to Improve the Mental Health of Adolescents and Youths, Millennium Science Initiative, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Juan Pablo Del Río,
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16
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Rivero-Müller A, Huhtaniemi I. Genetic variants of gonadotrophins and their receptors: Impact on the diagnosis and management of the infertile patient. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 36:101596. [PMID: 34802912 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This narrative review is concerned with genetic variants of the genes encoding gonadotrophin subunits and their receptors, as well as their implications into the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. We first review briefly the basics of molecular biology and biochemistry of gonadotrophin and gonadotrophin receptor structure and function, then describe the phenotypic effects of polymorphisms and mutations of these genes, followed by diagnostic aspects. We will then summarise the information that inactivating gonadotrophin receptor mutations have provided about the controversial topic of extragonadal gonadotrophin action. Finally, we will close with the current and future therapeutic approaches on patients with gonadotrophin and their receptor mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, 20-093, Poland
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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17
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Yoo SK, Mehdi SF, Pusapati S, Mathur N, Anipindi M, Lunenfeld B, Lowell B, Yang H, Metz CN, Khan SA, Leroith D, Roth J. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Related Peptides: Candidate Anti-Inflammatory Therapy in Early Stages of Sepsis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:714177. [PMID: 34589085 PMCID: PMC8475184 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.714177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis continues to be a major cause of morbidity, mortality, and post-recovery disability in patients with a wide range of non-infectious and infectious inflammatory disorders, including COVID-19. The clinical onset of sepsis is often marked by the explosive release into the extracellular fluids of a multiplicity of host-derived cytokines and other pro-inflammatory hormone-like messengers from endogenous sources ("cytokine storm"). In patients with sepsis, therapies to counter the pro-inflammatory torrent, even when administered early, typically fall short. The major focus of our proposed essay is to promote pre-clinical studies with hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) as a potential anti-inflammatory therapy for sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Koo Yoo
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Syed Faizan Mehdi
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Suma Pusapati
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Nimisha Mathur
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Manasa Anipindi
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Barbara Lowell
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Huan Yang
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Christine Noel Metz
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Sawleha Arshi Khan
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Derek Leroith
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jesse Roth
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
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18
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Contrasting effects of the Toll-like receptor 4 in determining ovarian follicle endowment and fertility in female adult mice. ZYGOTE 2021; 30:227-233. [PMID: 34405787 DOI: 10.1017/s096719942100054x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is best known for its role in bacteria-produced lipopolysaccharide recognition. Regarding female reproduction, TLR4 is expressed by murine cumulus cells and participates in ovulation and in cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) expansion, maternal-fetal interaction and preterm labour. Despite these facts, the role of TLR4 in ovarian physiology is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of TLR4 genetic ablation on mice folliculogenesis and female fertility, through analysis of reproductive crosses, ovarian responsiveness and follicular quantification in TLR4-/- (n = 94) and C57BL/6 mice [wild type (WT), n = 102]. TLR4-deficient pairs showed a reduced number of pups per litter (P = 0.037) compared with WT. TLR4-/- mice presented more primordial, primary, secondary and antral follicles (P < 0.001), however there was no difference in estrous cyclicity (P > 0.05). A lower (P = 0.006) number of COC was recovered from TLR4-/- mice oviducts after superovulation, and in heterozygous pairs, TLR4-/- females also showed a reduction in the pregnancy rate and in the number of fetuses per uterus (P = 0.007) when compared with WT. Altogether, these data suggest that TLR4 plays a role in the regulation of murine folliculogenesis and in determining ovarian endowment. TLR4 deficiency may affect ovulation and pregnancy rates, potentially decreasing fertility, therefore the potential side effects of its blockade have to be carefully investigated.
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19
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Wang H, Bu S, Tang J, Li Y, Liu C, Dong J. PTPN5 promotes follicle-stimulating hormone secretion through regulating intracellular calcium homeostasis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21756. [PMID: 34270805 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002752rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 5 (PTPN5), also called striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP), is highly expressed in neurons of the basal ganglia, hippocampus, cortex, and related structures, also in the pituitary. Gonadotropins are the key regulator of the reproduction in mammals. In this study, PTPN5 is detected to express in murine pituitary in a developmental manner. Moreover, the expression of PTPN5 in the pituitary is heavily reduced after ovary removal. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion in gonadotropes is regulated by PTPN5 via binding GnRH to GnRH-R. Two parallel signaling pathways, Gs-protein kinase A (PKA)-PTPN5 and Gq-phospholipases C (PLC)-p38 MAPK-PTPN5, cooperatively regulate GnRH-induced FSH secretion. We also show that influx of Ca2+ activates the Ca2+ -dependent phosphatase calcineurin, leading to the phosphorylation and activation of PTPN5. The intracellular release of Ca2+ is reduced via TC2153. In conclusion, blocking or knocking out of PTPN5 reduces the release of FSH in whole pituitary. Mechanically, PTPN5 regulates gonadotropes' function through regulating intracellular calcium homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Siyuan Bu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiajian Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunhua Liu
- Department of Physiology, Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Junhong Dong
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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20
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Lebede M, Di Marco F, Esser-Skala W, Hennig R, Wohlschlager T, Huber CG. Exploring the Chemical Space of Protein Glycosylation in Noncovalent Protein Complexes: An Expedition along Different Structural Levels of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin by Employing Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2021; 93:10424-10434. [PMID: 34288669 PMCID: PMC8340079 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c02199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Modern analytical
approaches employing high-resolution mass spectrometry
(MS) facilitate the generation of a vast amount of structural data
of highly complex glycoproteins. Nevertheless, systematic interpretation
of this data at different structural levels remains an analytical
challenge. The glycoprotein utilized as a model system in this study,
human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), exists as a heterodimer composed
of two heavily glycosylated subunits. In order to unravel the multitude
of glycoforms of recombinant hCG (drug product Ovitrelle), we combine
established techniques, such as released glycan and glycopeptide analysis,
with novel approaches employing high-performance liquid chromatography-mass
spectrometry (HPLC-MS) to characterize protein subunits and native
MS to analyze the noncovalent hCG complex. Starting from the deconvoluted
mass spectrum of dimeric hCG comprising about 50 signals, it was possible
to explore the chemical space of hCG glycoforms and elucidate the
complexity that hides behind just 50 signals. Systematic, stepwise
integration of data obtained at the levels of released glycans, glycopeptides,
and subunits using a computational annotation tool allowed us to reveal
1031 underlying glycoforms. Additionally, critical quality attributes
such as sialylation and core fucosylation were compared for two batches
of Ovitrelle to assess the potential product variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Lebede
- Department of Biosciences, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Innovative Tools for Biosimilar Characterization, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fiammetta Di Marco
- Department of Biosciences, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Innovative Tools for Biosimilar Characterization, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Esser-Skala
- Department of Biosciences, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Innovative Tools for Biosimilar Characterization, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Biosciences, Computational Systems Biology Group, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - René Hennig
- glyXera GmbH, Brenneckestraße 20 - ZENIT, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, Sandtorstraße 1, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Therese Wohlschlager
- Department of Biosciences, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Innovative Tools for Biosimilar Characterization, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christian G Huber
- Department of Biosciences, Bioanalytical Research Labs, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Innovative Tools for Biosimilar Characterization, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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21
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Oyenihi OR, Afolabi BA, Oyenihi AB, Ojo GB. Toxicity assessment of watermelon seed supplemented diet in rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2021; 45:1891-1898. [PMID: 33682546 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2021.1894699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Health benefits have been attributed to the consumption of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) seeds in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia but the potential toxicity especially on chronic use remains to be investigated. Here, diets containing watermelon seeds (WMSs) at 2.5% or 5% were eaten ad libitum daily for 21 d by male and female Wistar rats. Changes in body and organ (liver, kidney, brain, testis, and ovary) weights following diet supplementation were monitored. Biomarkers of organ injury, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cholesterol (CHO), triglyceride (TRI), urea, and creatinine (CRE) were measured. WMS-formulated diet led to a decrease in body weight in male but not in female rats compared to the control group. Also, testes weight significantly increased, whereas a decrease in that of the ovaries was noted. Although the ingestion of WMS did not significantly alter the weights of the liver and brain, a trend toward reduction was noticed. No significant changes were observed for the serum levels of ALT, ALP, CHO, and TRI in all rats. However, the kidney may be targeted for toxicity as indicated by significant elevations in serum urea and CRE levels in male and female rats when compared to controls. Furthermore, the sperm morphology anomalies observed after WMS supplementation demonstrate the potentially detrimental effects of high consumption of the seeds on the male reproductive system. We conclude that WMSs at 2.5% or 5% dose in the diet may elicit negative effects in organs particularly on the kidney and testes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omolola R Oyenihi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | | | - Ayodeji B Oyenihi
- Functional Foods Research Unit, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Gideon B Ojo
- Department of Anatomy, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
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22
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Hussain T, Murtaza G, Kalhoro DH, Kalhoro MS, Metwally E, Chughtai MI, Mazhar MU, Khan SA. Relationship between gut microbiota and host-metabolism: Emphasis on hormones related to reproductive function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 7:1-10. [PMID: 33997325 PMCID: PMC8110851 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
It has been well recognized that interactions between the gut microbiota and host-metabolism have a proven effect on health. The gut lumen is known for harboring different bacterial communities. Microbial by-products and structural components, which are derived through the gut microbiota, generate a signaling response to maintain homeostasis. Gut microbiota is not only involved in metabolic disorders, but also participates in the regulation of reproductive hormonal function. Bacterial phyla, which are localized in the gut, allow for the metabolization of steroid hormones through the stimulation of different enzymes. Reproductive hormones such as progesterone, estrogen and testosterone play a pivotal role in the successful completion of reproductive events. Disruption in this mechanism may lead to reproductive disorders. Environmental bacteria can affect the metabolism, and degrade steroid hormones and their relevant compounds. This behavior of the bacteria can safely be implemented to eliminate steroidal compounds from a polluted environment. In this review, we summarize the metabolism of steroid hormones on the regulation of gut microbiota and vice-versa, and also examined the significant influence this process has on various events of reproductive function. Altogether, the evidence suggests that steroid hormones and gut microbiota exert a central role in the modification of host bacterial action and impact the reproductive efficiency of animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarique Hussain
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Murtaza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, 70050, Pakistan
| | - Dildar H Kalhoro
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, 70050, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad S Kalhoro
- Department of Animal Products Technology, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, 70050, Pakistan
| | - Elsayed Metwally
- Department of Cytology & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Muhammad I Chughtai
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad U Mazhar
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Shahzad A Khan
- Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, 12350, Pakistan
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Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) Action on Spermatogenesis: A Focus on Physiological and Therapeutic Roles. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041014. [PMID: 32260182 PMCID: PMC7230878 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human reproduction is regulated by the combined action of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH) on the gonads. Although FSH is largely used in female reproduction, in particular in women attending assisted reproductive techniques to stimulate multi-follicular growth, its efficacy in men with idiopathic infertility is not clearly demonstrated. Indeed, whether FSH administration improves fertility in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, the therapeutic benefit in men presenting alterations in sperm production despite normal FSH serum levels is still unclear. In the present review, we evaluate the potential pharmacological benefits of FSH administration in clinical practice. METHODS This is a narrative review, describing the FSH physiological role in spermatogenesis and its potential therapeutic action in men. RESULTS The FSH role on male fertility is reviewed starting from the physiological control of spermatogenesis, throughout its mechanism of action in Sertoli cells, the genetic regulation of its action on spermatogenesis, until the therapeutic options available to improve sperm production. CONCLUSION FSH administration in infertile men has potential benefits, although its action should be considered by evaluating its synergic action with testosterone, and well-controlled, powerful trials are required. Prospective studies and new compounds could be developed in the near future.
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Casarini L, Crépieux P, Reiter E, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Rochira V, Brigante G, Santi D, Simoni M. FSH for the Treatment of Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072270. [PMID: 32218314 PMCID: PMC7177393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) supports spermatogenesis acting via its receptor (FSHR), which activates trophic effects in gonadal Sertoli cells. These pathways are targeted by hormonal drugs used for clinical treatment of infertile men, mainly belonging to sub-groups defined as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or idiopathic infertility. While, in the first case, fertility may be efficiently restored by specific treatments, such as pulsatile gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) or choriogonadotropin (hCG) alone or in combination with FSH, less is known about the efficacy of FSH in supporting the treatment of male idiopathic infertility. This review focuses on the role of FSH in the clinical approach to male reproduction, addressing the state-of-the-art from the little data available and discussing the pharmacological evidence. New compounds, such as allosteric ligands, dually active, chimeric gonadotropins and immunoglobulins, may represent interesting avenues for future personalized, pharmacological approaches to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0593961705; Fax: +39-0593962018
| | - Pascale Crépieux
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Eric Reiter
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
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Lin E, Li Z, Huang Y, Ru G, He P. High Dosages of Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin Exert Adverse Effects on the Developmental Competence of IVF-Derived Mouse Embryos and Cause Oxidative Stress-Induced Aneuploidy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:609290. [PMID: 33634101 PMCID: PMC7900142 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.609290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins play vital roles in the regulation of female reproductive ability and fertility. Our study aimed to determine the effects of superovulation induced by increasing doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin [eCG; also referred to as pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG)] on the developmental competence of mouse embryos and on aneuploidy formation during in vitro fertilization (IVF). eCG dose-dependently enhanced the oocyte yield from each mouse. Administration of 15 IU eCG significantly reduced the fertilization rate and the formation of four-cell embryos and blastocysts and increased the risk of chromosome aneuploidy. The IVF-derived blastocysts in the 15 IU eCG treatment group had the fewest total cells, inner cell mass (ICM) cells and trophectoderm (TE) cells. Moreover, more blastocysts and fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the 0, 5, and 10 IU eCG treatment groups than in the 15 IU eCG treatment group. We also investigated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and variations in several variables: mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP); active mitochondria; mitochondrial superoxide production; adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content; spindle structures; chromosome karyotypes; microfilament distribution; and the expression of Aurora B [an important component of the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC)], the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) protein mitotic arrest deficient 2 like 1 (MAD2L1), and the DNA damage response (DDR) protein γH2AX. Injection of 15 IU eCG increased ROS levels, rapidly reduced MMP, increased active mitochondria numbers and mitochondrial superoxide production, reduced ATP content, increased abnormal spindle formation rates, and induced abnormalities in chromosome number and microfilament distribution, suggesting that a high dose of eCG might alter developmental competence and exert negative effects on IVF-obtained mouse embryos. Additionally, the appearance of γH2AX and the significantly increased expression of Aurora B and MAD2L1 suggested that administration of relatively high doses of eCG caused Aurora B-mediated SAC activation triggered by ROS-induced DNA damage in early mouse IVF-derived embryos for self-correction of aneuploidy formation. These findings improve our understanding of the application of gonadotropins and provide a theoretical basis for gonadotropin treatment.
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Derkach KV, Bakhtyukov AA, Dar’in DV, Golovanova NE, Shpakov AO. Novel Thienopyrimidine Derivatives with an Activity of Full and Inverse Agonists of the Luteinizing Hormone Receptor. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093019050090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Colldén H, Landin A, Wallenius V, Elebring E, Fändriks L, Nilsson ME, Ryberg H, Poutanen M, Sjögren K, Vandenput L, Ohlsson C. The gut microbiota is a major regulator of androgen metabolism in intestinal contents. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 317:E1182-E1192. [PMID: 31689143 PMCID: PMC6962501 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00338.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Androgens exert important effects both in androgen-responsive tissues and in the intestinal tract. To determine the impact of the gut microbiota (GM) on intestinal androgen metabolism, we measured unconjugated (free) and glucuronidated androgen levels in intestinal contents from the small intestine, with a low bacterial density, and from cecum and colon, with a high bacterial density. Using a specific, sensitive gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method, we detected high levels of glucuronidated testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in small intestinal content of mice of both sexes, whereas in the distal intestine we observed remarkably high levels of free DHT, exceeding serum levels by >20-fold. Similarly, in young adult men high levels of unconjugated DHT, >70-fold higher than in serum, were detected in feces. In contrast to mice with a normal GM composition, germ-free mice had high levels of glucuronidated T and DHT, but very low free DHT levels, in the distal intestine. These findings demonstrate that the GM is involved in intestinal metabolism and deglucuronidation of DHT and T, resulting in extremely high free levels of the most potent androgen, DHT, in the colonic content of young and healthy mice and men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Colldén
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Andreas Landin
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ville Wallenius
- Department of Gastrosurgical Research and Education, Institute of Clinical Sciences, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Elebring
- Department of Gastrosurgical Research and Education, Institute of Clinical Sciences, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lars Fändriks
- Department of Gastrosurgical Research and Education, Institute of Clinical Sciences, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria E Nilsson
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Ryberg
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Klara Sjögren
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Liesbeth Vandenput
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Claes Ohlsson
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Papadimitriou DT, Chrysis D, Nyktari G, Zoupanos G, Liakou E, Papadimitriou A, Mastorakos G. Replacement of Male Mini-Puberty. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1275-1282. [PMID: 31240270 PMCID: PMC6584110 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Clinical management of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) remains a challenge in pediatric endocrinology. Objective To investigate whether daily subcutaneous injections of the recombinant human LH/FSH preparation could mimic the physiological male mini-puberty. Design and Setting The REMAP (REplacement of MAle mini-Puberty) study with up to 10 years of follow-up. Patients and Intervention Ten neonates or infants, all with bilateral cryptorchidism in intra-abdominal/inguinal position and micropenis with the absence of neonatal male mini-puberty, received daily subcutaneous injections of Pergoveris® (LH/FSH 75/150 IU) for 3 months. Main Outcome Measures Restoration of bilateral cryptorchidism/micropenis and the Leydig/Sertoli cells function. Results At the end of treatment, median LH and FSH, both undetectable before treatment, reached high normal levels of 4.45 IU/L and supranormal levels 83 IU/L, respectively; median inhibin-b and anti-Mullerian hormone levels increased from subnormal (27.8 and 1.54 ng/mL, respectively) to normal levels (365 and 150 ng/mL, respectively); median testosterone increased from just detectable (0.02 ng/mL) to normal levels (3.3 ng/mL). Stretched penile length increased from a median of 2 to 3.8 cm. During therapy, all testes descended to the scrotal position (by the end of the first month in three patients, the second month in four patients, and the third month in three patients), measuring 1.5 mL and appearing normal in ultrasonography. Three infants received additional treatment with testosterone enanthate. In two infants, one of two testes regressed in the low inguinal area; both infants were successfully treated surgically. After 1 to 10 years of follow-up, all testes are still in scrotal position and have slightly regressed in size. Conclusions The proposed regimen mimics neonatal male mini-puberty and successfully treats infants with micropenis and cryptorchidism in CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dionysios Chrysis
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Medical School, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Georgia Nyktari
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaia Maternity, Athens Medical Center, Athens, Greece
| | - George Zoupanos
- Pediatric Urology Clinic, Athens Medical Center, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anastasios Papadimitriou
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, 3rd Department of Pediatrics, Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - George Mastorakos
- Endocrine Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Blumenfeld Z. Corifollitropin-α is useful for low and normal responders, but what about hyperresponders? Fertil Steril 2019; 111:675-676. [PMID: 30853088 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Blumenfeld
- Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Comparison of congenital malformations among babies born after administration of letrozole or clomiphene citrate for infertility treatment in a Korean cohort. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 82:88-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Anderson RC, Newton CL, Millar RP. Small Molecule Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor Agonists and Antagonists. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:757. [PMID: 30728807 PMCID: PMC6352558 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) has been targeted therapeutically for decades, due to its pivotal role in reproduction. To date, only purified and recombinant/biosimilar FSH have been used to target FSHR in assisted reproduction, with the exception of corifollitropin alfa; a modified gonadotropin in which the FSH beta subunit is joined to the C-terminal peptide of the human choriogonadotropin beta subunit, to extend serum half-life. Assisted reproduction protocols usually entail the trauma of multiple injections of FSH to initiate and promote folliculogenesis, which has prompted the development of a number of orally-available low molecular weight (LMW) chemical scaffolds targeting the FSHR. Furthermore, the recently documented roles of the FSHR in diverse extragonadal tissues, including cancer, fat metabolism, and bone density regulation, has highlighted the potential utility of LMW modulators of FSHR activity. Despite these chemical scaffolds encompassing a spectrum of in vitro and in vivo activities and pharmacological profiles, none have yet reached the clinic. In this review we discuss the major chemical classes of LMW molecules targeting the FSHR, and document their activity profiles and current status of development, in addition to discussing potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C. Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Ross C. Anderson
| | - Claire L. Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P. Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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