1
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Casarini L, Santi D, Brigante G, Simoni M. Two Hormones for One Receptor: Evolution, Biochemistry, Actions, and Pathophysiology of LH and hCG. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:549-592. [PMID: 29905829 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
LH and chorionic gonadotropin (CG) are glycoproteins fundamental to sexual development and reproduction. Because they act on the same receptor (LHCGR), the general consensus has been that LH and human CG (hCG) are equivalent. However, separate evolution of LHβ and hCGβ subunits occurred in primates, resulting in two molecules sharing ~85% identity and regulating different physiological events. Pituitary, pulsatile LH production results in an ~90-minute half-life molecule targeting the gonads to regulate gametogenesis and androgen synthesis. Trophoblast hCG, the "pregnancy hormone," exists in several isoforms and glycosylation variants with long half-lives (hours) and angiogenic potential and acts on luteinized ovarian cells as progestational. The different molecular features of LH and hCG lead to hormone-specific LHCGR binding and intracellular signaling cascades. In ovarian cells, LH action is preferentially exerted through kinases, phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) and phosphorylated AKT (also known as protein kinase B), resulting in irreplaceable proliferative/antiapoptotic signals and partial agonism on progesterone production in vitro. In contrast, hCG displays notable cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated steroidogenic and proapoptotic potential, which is masked by estrogen action in vivo. In vitro data have been confirmed by a large data set from assisted reproduction, because the steroidogenic potential of hCG positively affects the number of retrieved oocytes, and LH affects the pregnancy rate (per oocyte number). Leydig cell in vitro exposure to hCG results in qualitatively similar cAMP/PKA and pERK1/2 activation compared with LH and testosterone. The supposed equivalence of LH and hCG has been disproved by such data, highlighting their sex-specific functions and thus deeming it an oversight caused by incomplete understanding of clinical data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu S, Lian S, Yang Y, Fu C, Ma H, Xiong Z, Ling Y, Zhao C. The relationship between the variants in the 5'-untranslated regions of equine chorionic gonadotropin genes and serum equine chorionic gonadotropin levels. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2017; 30:1679-1683. [PMID: 28423874 PMCID: PMC5666169 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective An experiment was conducted to study the association between the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 5′-untranslated regions (5′-UTR) of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) genes and the serum eCG levels. Methods SNPs in 5′-UTR of eCG genes were screened across 10 horse breeds, including 7 Chinese indigenous breeds and 3 imported breeds using iPLEX chemistry, and the association between the serum eCG levels of 174 pregnant Da’an mares and their serum eCG levels (determined with ELISA) was analyzed. Results Four SNPs were identified in the 5′-UTR of the eCGα gene, and one of them was unique in the indigenous breeds. There were 2 SNPs detected at the 5′ end of the eCGβ subunit gene, and one of them was only found in the Chinese breeds. The SNP g.39948246T>C at the 5′-UTR of eCGα was associated significantly with eCG levels of 75-day pregnant mare serum (p<0.05) in Da’an mares. Prediction analysis on binding sites of transcription factors showed that the g.39948246T>C mutation causes appearance of the specific binding site of hepatocyte nuclear factor 3 forkhead homolog 2 (HFH-2), which is a transcriptional repressor belonging to the forkhead protein family of transcription factors. Conclusion The SNP g.39948246T>C at the 5′-UTR of eCGα is associated with eCG levels of 75-day pregnant mare serum (p<0.05).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ShuQin Liu
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Song Lian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - YunZhou Yang
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - ChunZheng Fu
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - HongYing Ma
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - ZhiYao Xiong
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yao Ling
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - ChunJiang Zhao
- Equine Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, 100193, China.,National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing 100193, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Genetics of gonadotropins and their receptors as markers of ovarian reserve and response in controlled ovarian stimulation. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 44:15-25. [PMID: 28506471 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2017] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Several controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocols have been developed to increase the yield of mature oocytes retrieved in assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). The ovarian reserve (OR) influences the COS response, and it represents the main parameter that helps clinicians in refining clinical treatments in the perspective of a "personalized" ART. This approach is even more needed in particular conditions such as poor OR or polycystic ovary syndrome. Follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and human chorionic gonadotropin are currently used in COS at different combinations and with different efficacies, even if the best approach definition is controversial. Differences in individual-specific ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation can be due to alterations of genes encoding for hormones or their receptors. In particular, FSHB c.-211G>T, FSHR p.Asn680Ser, and c.-29G>A SNP allelic combinations may be used as OR and COS response markers. The purpose of this review is to highlight the evidence-based relevance of mutations and polymorphisms in gonadotropins and their receptor genes as predictive markers of OR and COS response to achieve fine-tuned therapeutic regimens.
Collapse
|
5
|
Fluorescence resonance energy transfer usage to track the sequence promoter changes in CGB5 gene in ovarian cancer patients. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 90:139-146. [PMID: 28355589 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.02.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The survival rates for ovarian cancer patients remain very low, often as a result of late diagnosis due to the asymptomatic course of the early stage disease. Based on the important biological contribution of human chorionic gonadotropin to various key processes including; cell cycle control, DNA repair, cellular differentiation and developmental processes, we hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms in the genes promoter could be associated with ovarian cancer risk. Thus, the purpose of the study was to determine whether particular polymorphisms occur in the promoter region of the human chorionic gonadotropin polypeptide 5 encoding gene, and if so, are they associated with ovarian cancer outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS We analyzed Central European females diagnosed with ovarian cancer (n=95) and controls (n=76) for the occurrence of at least one of three polymorphisms (rs7260002, rs7246045, rs540432391) and their impact on cancer risk. The fluorescence resonance energy transfer technique was used in order to conduct single nucleotide polymorphisms genotyping. RESULTS The occurrence of two studied polymorphisms, rs7260002 and rs540432391 present in the 5' upstream region of the chorionic gonadotropin (CG) gene were associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. The former polymorphism had a minor impact on cancer risk (P=0.049; OR=1.95; 95% CI=0.97-3.92), while the latter had a much larger impact and may be of great importance in the evaluation of cancer development in the analyzed population (p<0.001; OR 8.5; 95% CI 3.59-20.23). CONCLUSIONS The fluorescence resonance energy transfer application used in tracking the sequence promoter variations of genes expressed during tumorigenesis may be an important factor in early prediction of ovarian cancer. Taking under consideration the elevated CG expression associated with several different cancer types it seems reasonable to estimate if the analyzed polymorphisms could affect cancer outcome.
Collapse
|
6
|
|
7
|
Fox C, Azores-Gococo D, Swart L, Holoch K, Savaris RF, Likes CE, Miller PB, Forstein DA, Lessey BA. Luteal phase HCG support for unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss – a low hanging fruit? Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 34:319-324. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2016.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
|
8
|
Altmäe S, Segura MT, Esteban FJ, Bartel S, Brandi P, Irmler M, Beckers J, Demmelmair H, López-Sabater C, Koletzko B, Krauss-Etschmann S, Campoy C. Maternal Pre-Pregnancy Obesity Is Associated with Altered Placental Transcriptome. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169223. [PMID: 28125591 PMCID: PMC5268451 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal obesity has a major impact on pregnancy outcomes. There is growing evidence that maternal obesity has a negative influence on placental development and function, thereby adversely influencing offspring programming and health outcomes. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are poorly understood. We analysed ten term placenta’s whole transcriptomes in obese (n = 5) and normal weight women (n = 5), using the Affymetrix microarray platform. Analyses of expression data were carried out using non-parametric methods. Hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis showed a clear distinction in placental transcriptome between obese and normal weight women. We identified 72 differentially regulated genes, with most being down-regulated in obesity (n = 61). Functional analyses of the targets using DAVID and IPA confirm the dysregulation of previously identified processes and pathways in the placenta from obese women, including inflammation and immune responses, lipid metabolism, cancer pathways, and angiogenesis. In addition, we detected new molecular aspects of obesity-derived effects on the placenta, involving the glucocorticoid receptor signalling pathway and dysregulation of several genes including CCL2, FSTL3, IGFBP1, MMP12, PRG2, PRL, QSOX1, SERPINE2 and TAC3. Our global gene expression profiling approach demonstrates that maternal obesity creates a unique in utero environment that impairs the placental transcriptome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Signe Altmäe
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Research EURISTIKOS and Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- * E-mail: (SA); (CC)
| | - Maria Teresa Segura
- Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Research EURISTIKOS and Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Sabine Bartel
- Division of Experimental Asthma Research, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz-Center for Medicine and Biosciences, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
| | - Pilar Brandi
- Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Research EURISTIKOS and Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Martin Irmler
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Beckers
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen, Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Chair of Experimental Genetics, Freising, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Hans Demmelmair
- Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Dr. Hauner Children’s Hospital, University of Munich Medical Centre, Munich, Germany
| | - Carmen López-Sabater
- Department of Nutrition and Bromatology, School of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Berthold Koletzko
- Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Dr. Hauner Children’s Hospital, University of Munich Medical Centre, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Krauss-Etschmann
- Division of Experimental Asthma Research, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz-Center for Medicine and Biosciences, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universitaet zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Ludwig Maximilians University Hospital and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Großhadern, Germany
| | - Cristina Campoy
- Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Research EURISTIKOS and Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Biohealth Institute of Granada, Granada, Spain
- * E-mail: (SA); (CC)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Casarini L, Santi D, Marino M. Impact of gene polymorphisms of gonadotropins and their receptors on human reproductive success. Reproduction 2015; 150:R175-84. [PMID: 26370242 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins and their receptors' genes carry several single-nucleotide polymorphisms resulting in endocrine genotypes modulating reproductive parameters, diseases, and lifespan leading to important implications for reproductive success and potential relevance during human evolution. Here we illustrate common genotypes of the gonadotropins and gonadotropin receptors' genes and their clinical implications in phenotypes relevant for reproduction such as ovarian cycle length, age of menopause, testosterone levels, polycystic ovary syndrome, and cancer. We then discuss their possible role in human reproduction and adaptation to the environment. Gonadotropins and their receptors' variants are differently distributed among human populations. Some hints suggest that they may be the result of natural selection that occurred in ancient times, increasing the individual chance of successful mating, pregnancy, and effective post-natal parental cares. The gender-related differences in the regulation of the reproductive endocrine systems imply that many of these genotypes may lead to sex-dependent effects, increasing the chance of mating and reproductive success in one sex at the expenses of the other sex. Also, we suggest that sexual conflicts within the FSH and LH-choriogonadotropin receptor genes contributed to maintain genotypes linked to subfertility among humans. Because the distribution of polymorphic markers results in a defined geographical pattern due to human migrations rather than natural selection, these polymorphisms may have had only a weak impact on reproductive success. On the contrary, such genotypes could acquire relevant consequences in the modern, developed societies in which parenthood attempts often occur at a later age, during a short, suboptimal reproductive window, making clinical fertility treatments necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural SciencesCenter for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi, 287, 41125 Modena, ItalyAzienda USL of ModenaNOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Annexin A5 Promoter Haplotype M2 Is Not a Risk Factor for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Northern Europe. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131606. [PMID: 26135579 PMCID: PMC4489905 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Annexin A5 is an essential component of placental integrity that may potentially mediate susceptibility to phenotypes of compromised pregnancy. A promoter haplotype termed M2 of the coding gene ANXA5 has been implicated in various pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), however with inconclusive results. Study subjects and methods A retrospective case-control study combining resequencing and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was undertaken in 313 women with unexplained RPL and 214 fertile women from Estonia and Denmark to estimate the RPL disease risk of the M2 haplotype in Northern Europe. Comparative prevalence of the studied ANXA5 genetic variants in human populations was estimated based on the 1000 Genomes Project (n = 675, whole-genome sequencing data) and the KORA S3 500K dataset of South German samples (n = 1644, genome-wide genotyping data). Results Minor allele frequency of common polymorphisms in ANXA5 promoter was up to two-fold lower among Estonian RPL subjects than fertile controls. The M2 haplotype was not associated with RPL and a trend for decreased prevalence was observed among RPL patients compared to controls both in Estonia (8.1% vs 15.2%, respectively) and Denmark (9.7% vs 12.6%). The high M2 prevalence in fertile controls was consistent with estimations for European and East Asian populations (9.6%-16.0%). Conclusions This study cautions to consider the M2 haplotype as a deterministic factor in early pregnancy success because: i) no RPL disease risk was associated with the haplotype in two clinically well-characterized RPL case-control study samples, ii) high prevalence of the haplotype among fertile controls and world-wide populations is inconsistent with the previously proposed severe impact on early pregnancy success, iii) weak impact of M2 haplotype on the production of ANXA5 protein has been established by others.
Collapse
|
11
|
Aldaz-Carroll L, Richon S, Dangles-Marie V, Cocquebert M, Fournier T, Troalen F, Stevens D, Guery B, Hersant AM, Guibourdenche J, Nordor A, Pecking A, Bellet D. Specific detection of type II human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit produced by trophoblastic and neoplastic cells. Clin Chim Acta 2015; 444:92-100. [PMID: 25681647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Revised: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sequence of the beta-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCGβ) varies depending on whether hCGβ is encoded by type I or type II genes. Type II genes are upregulated in trophoblast and cancer but hCGβ can be detected in the serum of nonpregnant women and healthy individuals. We aimed to determine whether monoclonal antibody (mAb) FBT11-II specifically detects hCGβ encoded by type II genes (type II hCGβ). METHODS Competitive inhibition assays with synthetic peptides, immunocytochemical and immunohistochemical studies, type II hCGβ dosing immunoassays and sequencing of CGB genes were performed. RESULTS Competitive inhibition assays determined that mAb FBT11-II recognizes the type II hCGβ derived peptide. CGB mRNA sequencing of JEG-3 (trophoblastic) and T24 (bladder) cell lines confirmed that JEG-3 expresses type II genes while T24 expresses exclusively type I. FBT11-II only recognizes JEG-expressed hCGβ. Placenta immunohistochemical studies confirmed that type II hCGβ expression is restricted to the syncytiotrophoblast. Immunoassays detected type II hCGβ in serum of patients with either nontrophoblastic cancers or fetal Down syndrome. CONCLUSION Type II gene expression can be detected using FBT11-II. This specific recognition could improve the clinical usefulness of assays aimed at either managing aggressive tumors or screening for Down syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Aldaz-Carroll
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris, Chimie Paristech, 11, rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris France; CNRS, UMR8258, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; INSERM U1022, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France.
| | - S Richon
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Institut Médicament Toxicologie Chimie Environnement (IMTCE), 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France.
| | - V Dangles-Marie
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; Centre de recherche Institut Curie, Recherche Translationnelle, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris France.
| | - M Cocquebert
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMR-S 1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; INSERM U1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; PremUP fundation, Maternité de Port Royal, 53 avenue de l'Observatoire, 75014 Paris France.
| | - T Fournier
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMR-S 1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; INSERM U1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; PremUP fundation, Maternité de Port Royal, 53 avenue de l'Observatoire, 75014 Paris France.
| | - F Troalen
- Institut de Cancérologie Gustave-Roussy, Département de Biologie et Pathologie Médicales, 114 rue Édouard-Vaillant, 94805 Villejuif Cedex, France.
| | - D Stevens
- Institut Curie, Hôpital René Huguenin, Département de santé publique, 35, rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France.
| | - B Guery
- Institut Curie, Hôpital René Huguenin, Laboratoire d'Oncobiologie, Département de Biopathologie, 35, rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France.
| | - A-M Hersant
- Institut Curie, Hôpital René Huguenin, Laboratoire d'Oncobiologie, Département de Biopathologie, 35, rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France.
| | - J Guibourdenche
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMR-S 1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; INSERM U1139, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; PremUP fundation, Maternité de Port Royal, 53 avenue de l'Observatoire, 75014 Paris France.
| | - A Nordor
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; Centre de recherche Institut Curie, Recherche Translationnelle, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris France.
| | - A Pecking
- Institut Curie, Hôpital René Huguenin, Laboratoire d'Oncobiologie, Département de Biopathologie, 35, rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France.
| | - D Bellet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris, Chimie Paristech, 11, rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris France; CNRS, UMR8258, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; INSERM U1022, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris France; Institut Curie, Hôpital René Huguenin, Laboratoire d'Oncobiologie, Département de Biopathologie, 35, rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Haroun S, Altmäe S, Karypidis H, Kuningas M, Landgren BM, Akerud H, Skjöldebrand-Sparre L, Hosseini F, Bremme K, Sundström-Poromaa I, Stavreus-Evers A. Association between trefoil factor 3 gene variants and idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 29:737-44. [PMID: 25444508 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) gene is an inflammatory mediator expressed in human endometrium during the window of implantation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible genetic association of TFF3 variants in recurrent spontaneous abortion. Women with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (n = 164) and healthy pregnant women (n = 143) were genotyped for five TFF3 polymorphisms (rs225439 G/A, rs533093 C/T, rs225361 A/G, rs11701143 T/C and rs77436142 G/C). In addition, haplotypes formed within the gene were analysed. Within the recurrent spontaneous abortion group, women who at some point had given birth and childless women had 4.19 ± 1.75 and 5.34 ± 3.42 consecutive spontaneous abortions, respectively. Women who had experience recurrent spontaneous abortions had a lower allele frequency of the rs11701143 promoter region minor C allele compared with fertile women (0.02 versus 0.05, P = 0.015). Patients with rs225361 AG genotype had significantly more successful pregnancies before spontaneous abortion than those with homozygous AA and GG genotypes (P = 0.014). No significant differences in haplotype frequencies between patients and controls were detected. Possible genetic risk factors identified that might contribute to the pathogenesis of idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion were TFF3 gene variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Haroun
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - Signe Altmäe
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Helena Karypidis
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - Maris Kuningas
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Britt-Marie Landgren
- CLINTEC, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm 141 86, Sweden
| | - Helena Akerud
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | | | - Frida Hosseini
- Obstetrik och Gynekologi, Danderyds Sjukhus, Stockholm 182 88, Sweden
| | - Katarina Bremme
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Inger Sundström-Poromaa
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden
| | - Anneli Stavreus-Evers
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala 751 85, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sun Y, Ji X. Association of rs7260002 of chorionic gonadotrophin β5 with idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion in Chinese population. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1497-500. [PMID: 25193288 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Low levels of serum hCG during the first trimester is regarded as a predictor of miscarriage. This study was designed to examine whether variance in chorionic gonadotrophin β5 (Cgb5) gene confers risk to recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) in Chinese women. METHODS We recruited a total of 454 RSA subjects and 460 controls from our medical center between the years 2010 to 2013. rs7260002, which resides in the promoter region of Cgb5, was genotyped through direct sequencing. RESULTS The carriers with the minor allele of rs7260002 had reduced risk of RSA (P = 0.018; P adjusted = 0.032; OR: 0.76; 95 % CI: 0.61-0.96). Genotype frequency was further analyzed under additive, recessive, and dominant models. Significant differences between the RSA subjects and controls were detected under additive and recessive models (P additive = 0.040; P recessive = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS The current study identified a protective allele of the Cgb5 gene against RSA. Functional studies are required to elucidate the effect of the identified SNP on CGB expression and HCG hormone activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, 276003, China,
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Głodek A, Kubiczak MJ, Walkowiak GP, Nowak-Markwitz E, Jankowska A. Methylation status of human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit promoter and TFAP2A expression as factors regulating CGB gene expression in placenta. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1175-1182.e8. [PMID: 25063728 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate mechanisms regulating the expression of CGB genes in placental tissues from uncomplicated pregnancies and chorionic samples from spontaneous miscarriages. DESIGN Molecular analyses in human samples. SETTING Laboratory of molecular biology. PATIENT(S) Nine placental samples from term deliveries and 21 chorionic samples from miscarriages at 7-13 weeks of gestation. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The expression level of CGBs and genes encoding SP1, SP3, and AP2 transcription factors was analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The methylation status of the CGBs' promoter regions was determined using methylation-specific PCR. RESULT(S) The experiments showed significant differences in CGBs' expression and their regulation between placental and chorionic tissues. In placental tissues and chorionic tissues from 7 to 9 weeks of gestation, the expression level of CGBs was shown to be associated with the amount of TFAP2A transcripts. It was also demonstrated that variation in the expression level of CGB genes relies on changes in methylation of CGB3-9 and CGB1-2 promoter sequences. CONCLUSION(S) During pregnancy, regulation of hCG beta subunit genes expression correlates with both methylation of their promoters and TFAP2A expression level. The results suggest that these factors may be very influential in the early stages of pregnancy and may be associated with pregnancy outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Głodek
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta J Kubiczak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Grzegorz P Walkowiak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Nowak-Markwitz
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nagirnaja L, Palta P, Kasak L, Rull K, Christiansen OB, Nielsen HS, Steffensen R, Esko T, Remm M, Laan M. Structural genomic variation as risk factor for idiopathic recurrent miscarriage. Hum Mutat 2014; 35:972-82. [PMID: 24827138 PMCID: PMC4285182 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a multifactorial disorder with acknowledged genetic heritability that affects ∼3% of couples aiming at childbirth. As copy number variants (CNVs) have been shown to contribute to reproductive disease susceptibility, we aimed to describe genome-wide profile of CNVs and identify common rearrangements modulating risk to RM. Genome-wide screening of Estonian RM patients and fertile controls identified excessive cumulative burden of CNVs (5.4 and 6.1 Mb per genome) in two RM cases possibly increasing their individual disease risk. Functional profiling of all rearranged genes within RM study group revealed significant enrichment of loci related to innate immunity and immunoregulatory pathways essential for immune tolerance at fetomaternal interface. As a major finding, we report a multicopy duplication (61.6 kb) at 5p13.3 conferring increased maternal risk to RM in Estonia and Denmark (meta-analysis, n = 309/205, odds ratio = 4.82, P = 0.012). Comparison to Estonian population-based cohort (total, n = 1000) confirmed the risk for Estonian female cases (P = 7.9 × 10(-4) ). Datasets of four cohorts from the Database of Genomic Variants (total, n = 5,846 subjects) exhibited similar low duplication prevalence worldwide (0.7%-1.2%) compared to RM cases of this study (6.6%-7.5%). The CNV disrupts PDZD2 and GOLPH3 genes predominantly expressed in placenta and it may represent a novel risk factor for pregnancy complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- Human Molecular Genetics Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Choi J, Smitz J. Luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin: origins of difference. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 383:203-13. [PMID: 24365330 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Revised: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are widely recognized for their roles in ovulation and the support of early pregnancy. Aside from the timing of expression, however, the differences between LH and hCG have largely been overlooked in the clinical realm because of their similar molecular structures and shared receptor. With technologic advancements, including the development of highly purified and recombinant gonadotropins, researchers now appreciate that these hormones are not as interchangeable as once believed. Although they bind to a common receptor, emerging evidence suggests that LH and hCG have disparate effects on downstream signaling cascades. Increased understanding of the inherent differences between LH and hCG will foster more effective diagnostic and prognostic assays for use in a variety of clinical contexts and support the individualization of treatment strategies for conditions such as infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Choi
- The Center for Women's Reproductive Care at Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Johan Smitz
- UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are integral components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which controls sexual maturation and functionality. In the absence of signaling through their shared receptor, fetal sexual differentiation and post-natal development cannot proceed normally. Although they share a high degree of homology, the physiologic roles of these hormones are unique, governed by differences in expression pattern, biopotency and regulation. Whereas LH is a key regulator of gonadal steroidogenesis and ovulation, hCG is predominantly active in pregnancy and fetal development. Emerging evidence has revealed endogenous functions not previously ascribed to hCG, including participation in ovulation and fertilization, implantation, placentation and other activities in support of successful pregnancy. Spontaneous and induced mutations in LH, hCG and their mutual receptor have contributed substantially to our understanding of reproductive development and function. The lack of naturally occurring, functionally significant mutations in the β-subunit of hCG reinforce its putative role in establishment of pregnancy. Rescue of reproductive abnormalities resulting from aberrant gonadotropin signaling is possible in certain clinical contexts, depending on the nature of the underlying defect. By understanding the physiologic roles of LH and hCG in normal and pathologic states, we may better harness their diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center for Women’s Reproductive Care at Columbia UniversityNew York, NYUSA
| | - Johan Smitz
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Radioimmunology, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rull K, Christiansen OB, Nagirnaja L, Steffensen R, Margus T, Laan M. A modest but significant effect of CGB5 gene promoter polymorphisms in modulating the risk of recurrent miscarriage. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1930-6.e6. [PMID: 23499152 PMCID: PMC3698440 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Revised: 02/08/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective To confirm the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in chorionic gonadotropin beta (CGB) genes in modulating the susceptibility to recurrent miscarriage (RM) in Danes and in a meta-analysis across Danes and the discovery samples from Estonia and Finland. Design Case-control association study, restriction fragment length polymorphism genotyping, resequencing. Setting Fertility clinics at the Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, and Aalborg Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark. Patient(s) Four hundred fifty Danish women and men from couples with RM and 119 women with children and no miscarriages in new study. A total of 634 women and men from RM couples and 314 female controls in a combined study of Estonians, Finns, and Danes. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Distribution of CGB5 and CGB8 allele and haplotype frequencies in patients and controls. Result(s) For the majority of studied SNPs, the allelic and haplotypic distribution differed statistically between the Danish and the previous Estonian-Finnish sample. In Danes, two CGB5 promoter SNPs (c5-155; c5-142) exhibited a nonsignificant trend for higher allele frequency in fertile women compared with RM patients. The meta-analysis of results from three populations confirmed a modest but significant effect on carriage of c5-155C (odds ratio = 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44–0.94) and c5-142A (odds ratio = 0.66; 95% CI, 0.45–0.94) variants in reducing the risk of RM. None of the investigated genetic variants in the CGB8 gene was associated with RM. Conclusion(s) Carriage of particular variants in the promoter of the CGB5 gene seems to protect against RM. No common genetic variants in CGB5 and CGB8 were associated with increased RM susceptibility in the studied North European populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina Rull
- Human Molecular Genetics Research Group, Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Nagirnaja L, Venclovas Č, Rull K, Jonas KC, Peltoketo H, Christiansen OB, Kairys V, Kivi G, Steffensen R, Huhtaniemi IT, Laan M. Structural and functional analysis of rare missense mutations in human chorionic gonadotrophin β-subunit. Mol Hum Reprod 2012; 18:379-90. [PMID: 22554618 PMCID: PMC3389497 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gas018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterodimeric hCG is one of the key hormones determining early pregnancy success. We have previously identified rare missense mutations in hCGβ genes with potential pathophysiological importance. The present study assessed the impact of these mutations on the structure and function of hCG by applying a combination of in silico (sequence and structure analysis, molecular dynamics) and in vitro (co-immunoprecipitation, immuno- and bioassays) approaches. The carrier status of each mutation was determined for 1086 North-Europeans [655 patients with recurrent miscarriage (RM)/431 healthy controls from Estonia, Finland and Denmark] using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The mutation CGB5 p.Val56Leu (rs72556325) was identified in a single heterozygous RM patient and caused a structural hindrance in the formation of the hCGα/β dimer. Although the amount of the mutant hCGβ assembled into secreted intact hCG was only 10% compared with the wild-type, a stronger signaling response was triggered upon binding to its receptor, thus compensating the effect of poor dimerization. The mutation CGB8 p.Pro73Arg (rs72556345) was found in five heterozygotes (three RM cases and two control individuals) and was inherited by two of seven studied live born children. The mutation caused ∼50% of secreted β-subunits to acquire an alternative conformation, but did not affect its biological activity. For the CGB8 p.Arg8Trp (rs72556341) substitution, the applied in vitro methods revealed no alterations in the assembly of intact hCG as also supported by an in silico analysis. In summary, the accumulated data indicate that only mutations with neutral or mild functional consequences might be tolerated in the major hCGβ genes CGB5 and CGB8.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- Human Molecular Genetics Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rull K, Nagirnaja L, Laan M. Genetics of recurrent miscarriage: challenges, current knowledge, future directions. Front Genet 2012; 3:34. [PMID: 22457663 PMCID: PMC3306920 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2012.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent miscarriage (RM) occurs in 1-3% of couples aiming at childbirth. Due to multifactorial etiology the clinical diagnosis of RM varies. The design of genetic/"omics" studies to identify genes and biological mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of RM has challenges as there are several options in defining the study subjects (female patient and/or couple with miscarriages, fetus/placenta) and controls. An ideal study would attempt a trio-design focusing on both partners as well as pregnancies of the couple. Application of genetic association studies focusing on pre-selected candidate genes with potential pathological effect in RM show limitations. Polymorphisms in ∼100 genes have been investigated and association with RM is often inconclusive or negative. Also, implication of prognostic molecular diagnostic tests in clinical practice exhibits uncertainties. Future directions in investigating biomolecular risk factors for RM rely on integrating alternative approaches (SNPs, copy number variations, gene/protein expression, epigenetic regulation) in studies of single genes as well as whole-genome analysis. This would be enhanced by collaborative network between research centers and RM clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina Rull
- Human Molecular Genetics Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Casarini L, Pignatti E, Simoni M. Effects of polymorphisms in gonadotropin and gonadotropin receptor genes on reproductive function. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2011; 12:303-21. [PMID: 21912887 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-011-9192-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins, the action of which is mediated at the level of their gonadal receptors, play a key role in sexual development, reproductive functions and in metabolism. The involvement of the gonadotropins and their receptor genotypes on reproductive function are widely studied. A large number of gonadotropins and their receptors gene polymorphisms are known, but the only one considerable as a clear, absolute genetic marker of reproductive features or disfunctions is the FSHR Asn680Ser polymorphism, since it modulates ovarian response to FSH. The aim of these studies would to be the prediction of the genetic causes of sex-related diseases to enable a customized clinical setting based on individual response of patients undergoing gonadotropin stimulation. In this review we discuss the latest information about the effects of polymorphisms of the gonadotropins and their receptor genes on reproductive functions of both male and female, and discuss their patho-physiological implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Adams C, Henke A, Gromoll J. A novel two-promoter-one-gene system of the chorionic gonadotropin β gene enables tissue-specific expression. J Mol Endocrinol 2011; 47:285-98. [PMID: 21821715 DOI: 10.1530/jme-11-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The New World monkey (NWM), Callithrix jacchus, a preferred model in medical research, displays an interesting endocrine regulation of reproduction: LH, the heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone, is functionally replaced by the chorionic gonadotropin (CG), a hormone indispensable for establishment of pregnancy in humans and normally expressed in the placenta. In the marmoset pituitary, the expression of the β-subunit (CGB) gene is regulated similar to human LH β-subunit, but its placental regulation is unknown. This study intended to decipher the underlying mechanism of tissue-specific expression of CGB in the marmoset placenta. We identified a new placental transcriptional start site, described a new, previously undiscovered exon, and define a novel placental core promoter in the marmoset CGB gene. This promoter contains a TATA box and binding sites for activating protein 2 and selective promoter factor 1, the latter acting synergistically by forming a regulation cassette. Differential first exon usage directed the tissue-specific expression. Methylation analyses revealed a tissue-specific pattern in the placental promoter indicating additional epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Our findings point toward a hitherto unknown evolutionary plasticity in the LH/CG hormonal system in NWM, which could be used as a model to study human CGB regulation in clinical pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Adams
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproduction and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48129 Münster, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rull K, Nagirnaja L, Ulander VM, Kaare M, Aittomäki K, Steffensen R, Christiansen O, Laan M. Human chorionic gonadotropin beta gene variants are associated with recurrent miscarriage. J Reprod Immunol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2011.06.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
24
|
Abstract
In this review, I describe how evolutionary genomics is uniquely suited to spearhead advances in understanding human disease risk, owing to the privileged position of genes as fundamental causes of phenotypic variation, and the ability of population genetic and phylogenetic methods to robustly infer processes of natural selection, drift, and mutation from genetic variation at the levels of family, population, species, and clade. I first provide an overview of models for the origins and maintenance of genetically based disease risk in humans. I then discuss how analyses of genetic disease risk can be dovetailed with studies of positive and balancing selection, to evaluate the degree to which the 'genes that make us human' also represent the genes that mediate risk of polygenic disease. Finally, I present four basic principles for the nascent field of human evolutionary medical genomics, each of which represents a process that is nonintuitive from a proximate perspective. Joint consideration of these principles compels novel forms of interdisciplinary analyses, most notably studies that (i) analyze tradeoffs at the level of molecular genetics, and (ii) identify genetic variants that are derived in the human lineage or in specific populations, and then compare individuals with derived versus ancestral alleles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biosciences, Simon Fraser University Burnaby, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mohammad Seyedhassani S, Houshmand M, Mehdi Kalantar S, Aflatoonian A, Modabber G, Hashemi-Gorji F, Hadipour Z. BAX pro-apoptotic gene alterations in repeated pregnancy loss. Arch Med Sci 2011; 7:117-22. [PMID: 22291743 PMCID: PMC3258677 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2011.20614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a critical medical problem in about 0.5-2% of women. The molecular genetic background for spontaneous abortion is being increasingly understood, and some polymorphisms associated with it have been reported. This study investigates alterations of the Bax gene as a pro-apoptotic gene in women with idiopathic RPL. MATERIAL AND METHODS The frequency of mutations in the Bax gene of 67 idiopathic RPL women was studied in comparison to a sample of 70 healthy women. The promoter and the entire coding regions (exons 1-7) were amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The purity of the PCR product was first verified by electrophoresis on a 2% agarose gel. The amplified fragment was then sequenced by automated DNA sequencing. RESULTS A statistically significant difference was observed between patients and the control group regarding the frequency of alleles A(-179)G in the Bax promoter region (p= 0.013). Also among patients, G90C and G95A transitions were found in the coding region of exon 1 that change amino acid glutamine (Q) to histidine (H) and arginine (R) to lysine (K), respectively. A statistically significant association was observed between H allele (p = 0.0001) and K allele (p< 0.0001) and the occurrence of RPL. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate an association between A(-179)G mutation in the Bax promoter and RPL. Moreover, two polymorphisms, G90C and G95A in exon 1, found among our patients, could be considered as genetic factors making people susceptible to miscarriages. According to our findings, the Bax gene has an important role in pregnancy loss and the variations of this gene could help in the assessment of RPL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Seyedhassani
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institut of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud Houshmand
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institut of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mehdi Kalantar
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbas Aflatoonian
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Glayol Modabber
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institut of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Feyzollah Hashemi-Gorji
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institut of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nagirnaja L, Rull K, Uusküla L, Hallast P, Grigorova M, Laan M. Genomics and genetics of gonadotropin beta-subunit genes: Unique FSHB and duplicated LHB/CGB loci. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 329:4-16. [PMID: 20488225 PMCID: PMC2954307 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2010] [Revised: 04/13/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) play a critical role in human reproduction. Despite the common evolutionary ancestry and functional relatedness of the gonadotropin hormone beta (GtHB) genes, the single-copy FSHB (at 11p13) and the multi-copy LHB/CGB genes (at 19q13.32) exhibit locus-specific differences regarding their genomic context, evolution, genetic variation and expressional profile. FSHB represents a conservative vertebrate gene with a unique function and it is located in a structurally stable gene-poor region. In contrast, the primate-specific LHB/CGB gene cluster is located in a gene-rich genomic context and demonstrates an example of evolutionary young and unstable genomic region. The gene cluster is shaped by a constant balance between selection that acts on specific functions of the loci and frequent gene conversion events among duplicons. As the transcription of the GtHB genes is rate-limiting in the assembly of respective hormones, the genomic and genetic context of the FSHB and the LHB/CGB genes largely affects the profile of the hormone production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristiina Rull
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tartu, Puusepa 8 G2, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
- Estonian Biocentre, Riia St. 23b, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liis Uusküla
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pille Hallast
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marina Grigorova
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
- Estonian Biocentre, Riia St. 23b, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maris Laan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia St. 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Patterns and risks of human disease have evolved. In this article, I review evidence regarding the importance of recent adaptive evolution, positive selection, and genomic conflicts in shaping the genetic and phenotypic architectures of polygenic human diseases. Strong recent selection in human populations can create and maintain genetically based disease risk primarily through three processes: increased scope for dysregulation from recent human adaptations, divergent optima generated by intraspecific genomic conflicts, and transient or stable deleterious by-products of positive selection caused by antagonistic pleiotropy, ultimately due to trade-offs at the levels of molecular genetics, development, and physiology. Human disease due to these processes appears to be concentrated in three sets of phenotypes: cognition and emotion, reproductive traits, and life-history traits related to long life-span. Diverse, convergent lines of evidence suggest that a small set of tissues whose pleiotropic patterns of gene function and expression are under especially strong selection-brain, placenta, testis, prostate, breast, and ovary-has mediated a considerable proportion of disease risk in modern humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biosciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, B. C., Canada V5A 1S6.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Baby on board: do responses to stress in the maternal brain mediate adverse pregnancy outcome? Front Neuroendocrinol 2010; 31:359-76. [PMID: 20546772 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2010.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2010] [Revised: 05/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/18/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Stress and adverse environmental surroundings result in suboptimal conditions in a pregnant mother such that she may experience poor pregnancy outcome including complete pregnancy failure and preterm labor. Furthermore her developing baby is at risk of adverse programming, which confers susceptibility to long term ill health. While some mechanisms at the feto-maternal interface underlying these conditions are understood, the underlying cause for their adverse adaptation is often not clear. Progesterone plays a key role at many levels, including control of neuroendocrine responses to stress, procuring the required immune balance and controlling placental and decidual function, and lack of progesterone can explain many of the unwanted consequences of stress. How stress that is perceived by the mother inhibits progesterone secretion and action is beginning to be investigated. This overview of maternal neuroendocrine responses to stress throughout pregnancy analyses how they interact to compromise progesterone secretion and precipitate undesirable effects in mother and offspring.
Collapse
|