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Hattori A, Fukami M. Nuclear Receptor Gene Variants Underlying Disorders/Differences of Sex Development through Abnormal Testicular Development. Biomolecules 2023; 13:691. [PMID: 37189438 PMCID: PMC10135730 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadal development is the first step in human reproduction. Aberrant gonadal development during the fetal period is a major cause of disorders/differences of sex development (DSD). To date, pathogenic variants of three nuclear receptor genes (NR5A1, NR0B1, and NR2F2) have been reported to cause DSD via atypical testicular development. In this review article, we describe the clinical significance of the NR5A1 variants as the cause of DSD and introduce novel findings from recent studies. NR5A1 variants are associated with 46,XY DSD and 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. Notably, both 46,XX DSD and 46,XY DSD caused by the NR5A1 variants show remarkable phenotypic variability, to which digenic/oligogenic inheritances potentially contribute. Additionally, we discuss the roles of NR0B1 and NR2F2 in the etiology of DSD. NR0B1 acts as an anti-testicular gene. Duplications containing NR0B1 result in 46,XY DSD, whereas deletions encompassing NR0B1 can underlie 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. NR2F2 has recently been reported as a causative gene for 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD and possibly for 46,XY DSD, although the role of NR2F2 in gonadal development is unclear. The knowledge about these three nuclear receptors provides novel insights into the molecular networks involved in the gonadal development in human fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Hattori
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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2
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Zheng GY, Chu GM, Li PP, He R. Phenotype and genetic characteristics in 20 Chinese patients with 46,XY disorders of sex development. J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-023-02020-8. [PMID: 36745277 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02020-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) is the most complicated and common type of DSD. To date, more than 30 genes have been identified associated with 46,XY DSD. However, the mutation spectrum of 46,XY DSD is incomplete owing to the high genetic and clinical heterogeneity. This study aims to provide clinical and mutational characteristics of 18 Chinese patients with 46,XY DSD. METHODS A total of 20 unrelated individuals with 46,XY DSD were recruited. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) or custom-panel sequencing combined Sanger sequencing were performed to detect the pathogenic mutations. The pathogenicity of the variant was assessed according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidance and technical standards recommended by the ACMG and the Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen). RESULTS Six patients harbored NR5A1 mutations; two patients harbored NR0B1 mutations; six patients harbored SRD5A2 mutations; six patients harbored AR mutations. Six novel genetic variants were identified involved in three genes (NR5A1, NR0B1, and AR). CONCLUSION We determined the genetic etiology for all enrolled patients. Our study expanded the mutation spectrum of 46,XY DSD and provided diagnostic evidence for patients with the same mutation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Y Zheng
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 San Hao Street, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - G M Chu
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 San Hao Street, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - P P Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 San Hao Street, Shenyang, 11000, People's Republic of China
| | - R He
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 San Hao Street, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China.
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3
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Wang M, Yang Y, Xu Y. Brain nuclear receptors and cardiovascular function. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:14. [PMID: 36670468 PMCID: PMC9854230 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00962-3] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-heart interaction has raised up increasing attentions. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are abundantly expressed in the brain, and emerging evidence indicates that a number of these brain NRs regulate multiple aspects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, heart failure, atherosclerosis, etc. In this review, we will elaborate recent findings that have established the physiological relevance of brain NRs in the context of cardiovascular function. In addition, we will discuss the currently available evidence regarding the distinct neuronal populations that respond to brain NRs in the cardiovascular control. These findings suggest connections between cardiac control and brain dynamics through NR signaling, which may lead to novel tools for the treatment of pathological changes in the CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Wang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yongjie Yang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yong Xu
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA ,grid.39382.330000 0001 2160 926XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
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Caranica C, Lu M. A data-driven optimization method for coarse-graining gene regulatory networks. iScience 2023; 26:105927. [PMID: 36698721 PMCID: PMC9868542 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.105927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
One major challenge in systems biology is to understand how various genes in a gene regulatory network (GRN) collectively perform their functions and control network dynamics. This task becomes extremely hard to tackle in the case of large networks with hundreds of genes and edges, many of which have redundant regulatory roles and functions. The existing methods for model reduction usually require the detailed mathematical description of dynamical systems and their corresponding kinetic parameters, which are often not available. Here, we present a data-driven method for coarse-graining large GRNs, named SacoGraci, using ensemble-based mathematical modeling, dimensionality reduction, and gene circuit optimization by Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods. SacoGraci requires network topology as the only input and is robust against errors in GRNs. We benchmark and demonstrate its usage with synthetic, literature-based, and bioinformatics-derived GRNs. We hope SacoGraci will enhance our ability to model the gene regulation of complex biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Caranica
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mingyang Lu
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA,The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA,Corresponding author
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Yun HJ, Suh YJ, Kim YB, Kang EJ, Choi JH, Choi YK, Lee IB, Choi DH, Seo YJ, Noh JR, Choi HS, Kim YH, Lee CH. Hepatocyte DAX1 Deletion Exacerbates Inflammatory Liver Injury by Inducing the Recruitment of CD4 + and CD8 + T Cells through NF-κB p65 Signaling Pathway in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214009. [PMID: 36430486 PMCID: PMC9698938 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fulminant hepatitis is characterized by rapid and massive immune-mediated liver injury. Dosage-sensitive sex reversal-adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on the X chromosome, gene 1 (DAX1; NR0B1) represses the transcription of various genes. Here, we determine whether DAX1 serves as a regulator of inflammatory liver injury induced by concanavalin A (ConA). C57BL/6J (WT), myeloid cell-specific Dax1 knockout (MKO), and hepatocyte-specific Dax1 knockout (LKO) mice received single intravenous administration of ConA. Histopathological changes in liver and plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels in Dax1 MKO mice were comparable with those in WT mice following ConA administration. Unlike Dax1 MKO mice, Dax1 LKO mice were greatly susceptible to ConA-induced liver injury, which was accompanied by enhanced infiltration of immune cells, particularly CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, in the liver. Factors related to T-cell recruitment, including chemokines and adhesion molecules, significantly increased following enhanced and prolonged phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 in the liver of ConA-administered Dax1 LKO mice. This is the first study to demonstrate that hepatocyte-specific DAX1 deficiency exacerbates inflammatory liver injury via NF-κB p65 activation, thereby causing T-cell infiltration by modulating inflammatory chemokines and adhesion molecules. Our results suggest DAX1 as a therapeutic target for fulminant hepatitis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo-Jeong Yun
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Young-Joo Suh
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Yu-Bin Kim
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Kang
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jung Hyeon Choi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Young-Keun Choi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - In-Bok Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Dong-Hee Choi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Yun Jeong Seo
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jung-Ran Noh
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Hueng-Sik Choi
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Yong-Hoon Kim
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-H.K.); (C.-H.L.)
| | - Chul-Ho Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-H.K.); (C.-H.L.)
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Sakellakis M. Orphan receptors in prostate cancer. Prostate 2022; 82:1016-1024. [PMID: 35538397 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of new cellular receptors has been increasing rapidly. A receptor is called "orphan" if an endogenous ligand has not been identified yet. METHODS Here we review receptors that contribute to prostate cancer and are considered orphan or partially orphan. This means that the full spectrum of their endogenous ligands remains unknown. RESULTS The orphan receptors are divided into two major families. The first group includes G protein-coupled receptors. Most are orphan olfactory receptors. OR51E1 inhibits cell proliferation and induces senescence in prostate cancer. OR51E2 inhibits prostate cancer growth, but promotes invasiveness and metastasis. GPR158, GPR110, and GPCR-X play significant roles in prostate cancer development and progression. However, GPR160 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The other major subset of orphan receptors are nuclear receptors. Receptor-related orphan receptor α (RORα) inhibits tumor growth, but RORγ stimulates androgen receptor signaling. PXR contributes to metabolic deactivation of androgens and inhibits cell proliferation. TLX has protumorigenic effects in prostate cancer, while its knockdown triggers cellular senescence and growth arrest. Estrogen-related receptor ERRγ can inhibit tumor growth but ERRα is protumorigenic. Dax1 and short heterodimeric partner are also inhibitory in prostate cancer. CONCLUSION There is a "zoo" of relatively underappreciated orphan receptors that play key roles in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minas Sakellakis
- Fourth Oncology Department and Comprehensive Clinical Trials Center, Metropolitan Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Abe I, Tanaka T, Ohe K, Fujii H, Nagata M, Ochi K, Senda Y, Takeshita K, Koga M, Kudo T, Enjoji M, Yanase T, Kobayashi K. Inhibition of NR5A1 phosphorylation alleviates a transcriptional suppression defect caused by a novel NR0B1 mutation. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvac068. [PMID: 35592512 PMCID: PMC9113462 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Mutations in the NR0B1 gene, also well-known as the DAX1 gene, are known to cause congenital adrenal hypoplasia associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The abnormal NR0B1 protein fails to suppress the transcription of promoters of steroidogenic enzymes, which are also targets of NR5A1 protein, also well-known as Ad4BP/SF-1 protein. Since NR5A1 and NR0B1 have antagonistic effects on steroidogenesis, the loss of function due to NR0B1 mutations may be compensated by inducing loss of function of NR5A1 protein. Patient A middle-aged man was diagnosed with congenital adrenal hypoplasia associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and genetic analysis revealed him to have a novel NR0B1 mutation, c.1222C>T(p.Gln408Ter). Methods NR0B1 activity was evaluated in CLK1/4 inhibitor-treated 293T cells via immunoblotting and luciferase assays of the STAR promoter. Results TG003 treatment suppressed NR5A1 protein function to compensate for the mutant NR0B1 showing inhibited suppression of transcription. Immunoblotting analyses showed that the phosphorylation status of NR5A1 at Ser203 was attenuated by the CLK1/4 inhibitor. Conclusion The specific reduction of NR5A1 phosphorylation by a CLK1/4 inhibitor may alleviate developmental defects in patients with NR0B1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichiro Abe
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tanaka
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Transplantation, Fukuoka University, Nanakuma Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kenji Ohe
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Fujii
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mai Nagata
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kentaro Ochi
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuki Senda
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kaori Takeshita
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Midori Koga
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tadachika Kudo
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Munechika Enjoji
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Kunihisa Kobayashi
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Zokumyoin, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
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Fujisawa Y, Ono H, Konno A, Yao I, Itoh H, Baba T, Morohashi K, Katoh-Fukui Y, Miyado M, Fukami M, Ogata T. Intrauterine hyponutrition reduces fetal testosterone production and postnatal sperm count in the mouse. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvac022. [PMID: 35265782 PMCID: PMC8901363 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Although intrauterine hyponutrition is regarded as a risk factor for the development of "testicular dysgenesis syndrome" (TDS) in the human, underlying mechanism(s) remain largely unknown. To clarify the underlying mechanism(s), we fed vaginal plug-positive C57BL/6N female mice with regular food ad libitum throughout the pregnant course (control females) (C-females) or with 50% of the mean daily intake of the C-females from 6.5 dpc (calorie-restricted females) (R-females), and compared male reproductive findings between 17.5-dpc-old male mice delivered from C-females (C-fetuses) and those delivered from R-females (R-fetuses) and between 6-week-old male mice born to C-females (C-offspring) and those born to R-females (R-offspring). Compared with the C-fetuses, the R-fetuses had (1) morphologically normal external genitalia with significantly reduced anogenital distance index, (2) normal numbers of testicular component cells, and (3) significantly low intratesticular testosterone, in association with significantly reduced expressions of steroidogenic genes. Furthermore, compared with the C-offspring, the R-offspring had (1) significantly increased TUNEL-positive cells and normal numbers of other testicular component cells, (2) normal intratesticular testosterone, in association with normal expressions of steroidogenic genes, (3) significantly reduced sperm count, and normal testis weight and sperm motility, and (4) significantly altered expressions of oxidation stress-related, apoptosis-related, and spermatogenesis-related genes. The results, together with the previous data including the association between testosterone deprivation and oxidative stress-evoked apoptotic activation, imply that reduced fetal testosterone production is the primary underlying factor for the development of TDS in intrauterine hyponutrition, and that TDS is included in the clinical spectrum of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuko Fujisawa
- Departments of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ono
- Departments of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Aru Konno
- Departments of Medical Spectroscopy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Ikuko Yao
- Departments of Optical Imaging, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Itoh
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takashi Baba
- Department of Molecular Biology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Yuko Katoh-Fukui
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mami Miyado
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Ogata
- Departments of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
- Departments of Biochemistry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu Medical Center, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Zhu F, Zhou M, Deng X, Li Y, Xiong J. Case Report: A Novel Truncating Variant of NR0B1 Presented With X-Linked Late-Onset Adrenal Hypoplasia Congenita With Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897069. [PMID: 35784540 PMCID: PMC9243302 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptor subfamily 0 group B member 1 gene (NR0B1) encodes an orphan nuclear receptor that plays a critical role in the development and regulation of the adrenal gland and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. In this study, we report a novel mutation in NR0B1 that led to adult-onset adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) and pubertal development failure in a male adult. Clinical examinations revealed hyponatremia, elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone levels, reduced testosterone and gonadotropin levels, and hyper-responses to gonadotropin-releasing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation tests. Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed to identify the potential causes of AHC. Candidate variants were shortlisted based on the X-linked recessive models. Sequence analyses identified a novel hemizygous variant of c.1034delC in exon 1 of NR0B1 at Xp21.2, resulting in a frameshift mutation and premature stop codon formation. The c.1034delC/p.Pro345Argfs*27 in the NR0B1 gene was detected in the hemizygous state in affected males and in the heterozygous state in healthy female family carriers. These results expand the clinical features of AHC as well as the mutation profile of the causative gene NR0B1. Further studies are needed to elucidate the biological effects of the mutation on the development and function of the adrenal gland and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People’s Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiuling Deng
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Internal Medicine, Distinct HealthCare, Wuhan, China
| | - Yujuan Li
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Xiong
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Xiong,
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10
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Chang Z, Lu W, Zhao Z, Xi L, Li X, Ye R, Ni J, Pei Z, Zhang M, Cheng R, Zheng Z, Sun C, Wu J, Luo F. Genetic aetiology of primary adrenal insufficiency in Chinese children. BMC Med Genomics 2021; 14:172. [PMID: 34193132 PMCID: PMC8243448 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-021-01021-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is life-threatening, and a definitive aetiological diagnosis is essential for management and prognostication. We conducted this study to investigate the genetic aetiologies of PAI in South China and explore their clinical features. METHODS Seventy children were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Clinical information was collected, and combined genetic tests were performed according to the children's manifestations. Statistical analysis was performed among the different groups. In silico or in vitro experiments were applied to determine the pathogenicity of novel variants. RESULTS Among the 70 children, 84.3% (59/70) were diagnosed with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) was genetically confirmed in 91.5% of these cases. Salt wasting (SW), simple virilization (SV), and non-classic (NC) CAH accounted for 66.1% (39/59), 30.5% (18/59), and 3.4% (2/59) of the cases, respectively. The 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) and testosterone (TES) levels were significantly higher in children with SW than with SV. The 17-OHP and cortisol levels in female SW patients were significantly higher than those in males. The 17-OHP, cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) and TES levels in female SW patients were significantly higher than those in female SV patients. Additionally, 72.7% (8/11) of uncharacterized PAI patients had positive genetic findings. Among all the patients, two novel variants in the CYP21A2 gene (c.833dupT and c.651 + 2T > G) were found. A microdeletion (Xp21.2-21.3) and five novel variants, including 2 in the NR0B1 gene (c.323-324CG > GA and c.1231_1234delCTCA), 2 in the AAAS gene (c.399 + 1G > A and c.250delT) and 1 in the NNT gene (c.2274delT), were detected. The novel variant c.399 + 1G > A in the AAAS gene was further confirmed to lead to exon 4 skipping during mRNA transcription and produce a truncated ALADIN protein. CONCLUSIONS We found ethnicity-based differences in the CYP21A2 gene variant spectrum among different study populations. Female 21-OHD patients tended to have higher 17-OHP and TES levels, which warrants caution in relation to the effects of virilization. Novel gene variants detected in the CYP21A2, NR0B1, AAAS and NNT genes expanded the genetic spectrum of PAI, however, further improvement of genetic testing tools beyond our protocol are still needed to uncover the complete aetiology of PAI in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Chang
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuhui Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Xi
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Ye
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinwen Ni
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhou Pei
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Miaoying Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruoqian Cheng
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangqian Zheng
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjun Sun
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Feihong Luo
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wan Yuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Pignatti E, Flück CE. Adrenal cortex development and related disorders leading to adrenal insufficiency. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 527:111206. [PMID: 33607267 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The adult human adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones that are crucial for life, supporting immune response, glucose homeostasis, salt balance and sexual maturation. It consists of three histologically distinct and functionally specialized zones. The fetal adrenal forms from mesodermal material and produces predominantly adrenal C19 steroids from its fetal zone, which involutes after birth. Transition to the adult cortex occurs immediately after birth for the formation of the zona glomerulosa and fasciculata for aldosterone and cortisol production and continues through infancy until the zona reticularis for adrenal androgen production is formed with adrenarche. The development of this indispensable organ is complex and not fully understood. This article gives an overview of recent knowledge gained of adrenal biology from two perspectives: one, from basic science studying adrenal development, zonation and homeostasis; and two, from adrenal disorders identified in persons manifesting with various isolated or syndromic forms of primary adrenal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Pignatti
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern and Department of BioMedical Research, University Hospital Inselspital, University of Bern, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Christa E Flück
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern and Department of BioMedical Research, University Hospital Inselspital, University of Bern, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
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12
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Kumar S, Kim HJ, Lee CH, Choi HS, Lee K. Leydig Cell-Specific DAX1-Deleted Mice Has Higher Testosterone Level in the Testis During Pubertal Development. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:955-962. [PMID: 33891289 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00554-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone, the male sex hormone, is necessary for the development and function of the male reproductive system. Biosynthesis of testosterone in mammals mainly occurs in testicular Leydig cells. Many proteins such as P450c17, 3β-HSD, and StAR are involved in testicular steroidogenesis. DAX1 is essential for sex development and interacts with nuclear receptors such as steroidogenic factor 1 to inhibit steroidogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of DAX1 in testicular steroidogenesis in vivo by generating Leydig cell-specific DAX1-knockout mice. Radioimmunoassay revealed that the levels of testosterone and progesterone were higher in Leydig cell-specific DAX1-knockout testes than in the testes from wild-type mice during the first 3-4 weeks of aging. In addition, the expression levels of steroidogenic genes, such as StAR, P450c17, P450scc, and 3β-HSD, were considerably higher in the testes from DAX1-knockout mice. DAX1-deficient mouse testes seemed to attain early puberty with the acceleration of germ cell development. These data suggest that DAX1 regulates the expression of steroidogenic genes, and thereby controls and fine-tunes steroidogenesis during testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudeep Kumar
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jeong Kim
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Ho Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hueng-Sik Choi
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Keesook Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Seo BK, Jeong SA, Cho JY, Park JS, Seo JH, Park ES, Lim JY, Woo HO, Youn HS. Report: central diabetes insipidus and schwannoma in a male with X-linked congenital adrenal hypoplasia. BMC Endocr Disord 2020; 20:73. [PMID: 32460754 PMCID: PMC7254651 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-020-00553-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DAX1 mutations are related to the X-linked form of adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) in infancy and to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) in puberty. We report a male patient affected by X-linked AHC who presented with central diabetes insipidus and schwannoma in adulthood, which has not been described in association with AHC. CASE PRESENTATION A 36-day-old male infant who presented with severe dehydration was admitted to the intensive care unit. His laboratory findings showed hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis. After hormonal evaluation, he was diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency, and he recovered after treatment with hydrocortisone and a mineralocorticoid. He continued to take hydrocortisone and the mineralocorticoid after discharge. At the age of 17, he did not show any signs of puberty. On the basis of a GnRH test, a diagnosis of HH was made. At the age of 24, he was hospitalized with thirst, polydipsia and polyuria. He underwent a water deprivation test for polydipsia and was diagnosed with central diabetes insipidus. By quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, we identified a hemizygous frameshift mutation in DAX1 (c.543delA). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that DAX1 mutations affect a wider variety of endocrine organs than previously known, including the posterior pituitary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boo Kyeong Seo
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Seul Ah Jeong
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Jae Young Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Ji Sook Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Ji-Hyun Seo
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Eun Sil Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Jae-Young Lim
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea.
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea.
| | - Hyang-Ok Woo
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hee-Shang Youn
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, 92 Chilam-dong, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 660-751, South Korea
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea
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14
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Levasseur A, Dumontet T, Martinez A. “Sexual dimorphism in adrenal gland development and tumorigenesis”. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2019.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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15
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Bertalan R, Bencsik Z, Mezei P, Vajda Z, Butz H, Patócs A. Novel frameshift mutation of the NR0B1(DAX1) in two tall adult brothers. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4599-4604. [PMID: 31280422 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04688-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
NR0B1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 0, group B, member 1) is a transcription factor encoded by DAX1 (dosage-sensitive sex reversal, adrenal hypoplasia critical region, on chromosome X, gene 1) responsible for the development and maintenance of the steroidogenic tissues. In humans the DAX1 mutations cause congenital adrenal hypoplasia (AHC) and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG) in boys. Here we report two brothers who were assessed by endocrinologist at the age of 51 and 43 because of their serious osteoporosis. They had been substituted with prednisolone since the age of 4 and 9 years because of their primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI). Due to their late puberty caused by HHG at the age of 16 and 17 years their heights were - 3.1 and - 3.3 SD, but then they had a significant growth during their adulthood and reached the + 1.85 SD and + 3.78 SD respectively. During this period, they received glucocorticoid supplementation, but the treatment of their HHG was inadequate. At the age of 51 and 43 years insulin tolerance test (ITT) and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) test confirmed their PAI and HHG. Genetic test performed at this time revealed a novel, four nucleotides deletion (del.586-571c.GGGC or 572-575c.GGGC) of DAX1 gene. The two brothers with AHC and HHG caused by a novel DAX1 mutation, reached tall final heights, despite of the disadvantageous prednisolone treatment during their childhood. We assume that the long-term lack of the sexual hormone substitution was a significant reason of their above average height as well as their serious osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Bertalan
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Bókay J Street 53-54, Budapest, 1083, Hungary.
- Csolnoky Ferenc Hospital, Kórház Street 1, Veszprém, 8200, Hungary.
| | - Zsuzsa Bencsik
- Szent Donát Hospital, Honvéd Street 2-3, Várpalota, 8100, Hungary
| | - Piroska Mezei
- Fejér County Szent György University Teaching Hospital, Seregélyesi Street 3, Szekesfehervar, 8000, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Vajda
- Pál Heim Children's Hospital, Üllői Street 86, Budapest, 1089, Hungary
| | - Henriett Butz
- Momentum Hereditary Endocrine Tumours Research Group Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi Street 46, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi Street 46, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
| | - Attila Patócs
- Momentum Hereditary Endocrine Tumours Research Group Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi Street 46, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi Street 46, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
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16
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Campbell DEK, Langlois VS. Thyroid hormones and androgens differentially regulate gene expression in testes and ovaries of sexually mature Silurana tropicalis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 267:172-182. [PMID: 29990494 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A series of ex vivo exposures using testicular and ovarian tissues of sexually mature Western clawed frogs (Silurana tropicalis) were designed to examine molecular mechanisms of thyroid hormone (TH) and androgen crosstalk sans hypophyseal feedback as well as investigate potential sex-specific differences. Tissues were exposed ex vivo to either triiodothyronine (T3), iopanoic acid (IOP), one co-treatment of IOP + 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), 5α-DHT, 5β-dihydrotestosterone (5β-DHT), or testosterone (T). Direct exposure to different androgens led to androgen specific increases in thyroid receptor and deiodinase transcripts in testes (trβ and dio1) but a decrease in expression in ovaries (trβ and dio3), suggesting that male and female frogs can be differently affected by androgenic compounds. Moreover, exposure to select androgens differentially increased estrogen-related transcription (estrogen receptor alpha (erα) and aromatase (cyp19)) and production (estradiol) in ovaries and testes indicating the activation of alternate metabolic pathways yielding estrogenic metabolites. Sex-steroid-related transcription (i.e., steroid 5α-reductase type 2 (srd5α2) and erα) and production (i.e., 5α-DHT) were also differentially regulated by THs. The presence and frequency of transcription factor binding sites in the putative promoter regions of TH- and sex steroid-related genes were also examined in S. tropicalis, rodent, and fish models using in silico analysis. In summary, this study provides an improved mechanistic understanding of TH- and androgen-mediated actions and reveals differential transcriptional effects as a function of sex in frogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E K Campbell
- Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - V S Langlois
- Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) - Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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17
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Xia X, Huo W, Wan R, Wang P, Chang Z. Cloning, characterization and function analysis of DAX1 in Chinese loach (Paramisgurnus dabryanus). Genetica 2018; 146:487-496. [PMID: 30206752 DOI: 10.1007/s10709-018-0039-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms of sex determination and differentiation have not been elucidated in most fish species. In this study, the full-length cDNAs of DAX1 was cloned and characterized in aquaculture fish Chinese loach (Paramisgurnus dabryanus), designated as Pd-DAX1. The cDNA sequence of Pd-DAX1 was 1261 bp, including 795 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding 264 amino acids. Pd-DAX1 shares highly identical sequence with DAX1 homologues from different species. The expression profiles of Pd-DAX1 in different developmental stages and diverse adult tissues were analyzed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH). Pd-DAX1 was continuously expressed during embryogenesis, with the extensive distribution in the development of the central nervous system. Tissue distribution analysis revealed that Pd-DAX1 expressed widely in adult tissues, with the highest expression level found in testis, moderate level in ovary, showing a sex-dimorphic expression pattern. Pd-DAX1 mainly located in spermatogonia cells, spermatocytes, primary oocytes and previtellogenic oocyte cells, implying that Pd-DAX1 may involve in gametogenesis. These preliminary findings suggest that Pd-DAX1 gene is highly conserved during vertebrate evolution and involved in a wide range of developmental processes including embryogenesis, central nervous system development and gonad development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Xia
- Molecular and Genetic Laboratory, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weiran Huo
- Molecular and Genetic Laboratory, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruyan Wan
- Molecular and Genetic Laboratory, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Peijin Wang
- Molecular and Genetic Laboratory, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongjie Chang
- Molecular and Genetic Laboratory, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, People's Republic of China
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18
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Lotfi CFP, Kremer JL, dos Santos Passaia B, Cavalcante IP. The human adrenal cortex: growth control and disorders. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2018; 73:e473s. [PMID: 30208164 PMCID: PMC6113920 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2018/e473s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes key knowledge regarding the development, growth, and growth disorders of the adrenal cortex from a molecular perspective. The adrenal gland consists of two distinct regions: the cortex and the medulla. During embryological development and transition to the adult adrenal gland, the adrenal cortex acquires three different structural and functional zones. Significant progress has been made in understanding the signaling and molecules involved during adrenal cortex zonation. Equally significant is the knowledge obtained regarding the action of peptide factors involved in the maintenance of zonation of the adrenal cortex, such as peptides derived from proopiomelanocortin processing, adrenocorticotropin and N-terminal proopiomelanocortin. Findings regarding the development, maintenance and growth of the adrenal cortex and the molecular factors involved has improved the scientific understanding of disorders that affect adrenal cortex growth. Hypoplasia, hyperplasia and adrenocortical tumors, including adult and pediatric adrenocortical adenomas and carcinomas, are described together with findings regarding molecular and pathway alterations. Comprehensive genomic analyses of adrenocortical tumors have shown gene expression profiles associated with malignancy as well as methylation alterations and the involvement of miRNAs. These findings provide a new perspective on the diagnosis, therapeutic possibilities and prognosis of adrenocortical disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudimara Ferini Pacicco Lotfi
- Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- *Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Jean Lucas Kremer
- Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Barbara dos Santos Passaia
- Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Isadora Pontes Cavalcante
- Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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19
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De Silva MSI, Dayton AW, Rhoten LR, Mallett JW, Reese JC, Squires MD, Dalley AP, Porter JP, Judd AM. Involvement of adenosine monophosphate activated kinase in interleukin-6 regulation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme in the bovine zona fasciculata and zona reticularis. Steroids 2018; 134:53-66. [PMID: 29501754 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
In bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (ZF) and NCI-H295R cells, interleukin-6 (IL-6) increases cortisol release, increases expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), and steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) (increases steroidogenic proteins), and decreases the expression of adrenal hypoplasia congenita-like protein (DAX-1) (inhibits steroidogenic proteins). In contrast, IL-6 decreases bovine adrenal zona reticularis (ZR) androgen release, StAR, P450scc, and SF-1 expression, and increases DAX-1 expression. Adenosine monophosphate (AMP) activated kinase (AMPK) regulates steroidogenesis, but its role in IL-6 regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis is unknown. In the present study, an AMPK activator (AICAR) increased (P < 0.01) NCI-H295R StAR promoter activity, StAR and P450scc expression, and the phosphorylation of AMPK (PAMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (PACC) (indexes of AMPK activity). In ZR (decreased StAR, P450scc, SF-1, increased DAX-1) (P < 0.01) and ZF tissues (increased StAR, P450scc, SF-1, decreased DAX-1) (P < 0.01), AICAR modified StAR, P450scc, SF-1 and DAX-1 mRNAs/proteins similar to the effects of IL-6. The activity (increased PAMPK and PACC) (P < 0.01) of AMPK in the ZF and ZR was increased by AICAR and IL-6. In support of an AMPK role in IL-6 ZF and ZR effects, the AMPK inhibitor compound C blocked (P < 0.01) the effects of IL-6 on the expression of StAR, P450scc, SF-1, and DAX-1. Therefore, IL-6 modification of the expression of StAR and P450scc in the ZF and ZR may involve activation of AMPK and these changes may be related to changes in the expression of SF-1 and DAX-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matharage S I De Silva
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Adam W Dayton
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Lance R Rhoten
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - John W Mallett
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Jared C Reese
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Mathieu D Squires
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Andrew P Dalley
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - James P Porter
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States
| | - Allan M Judd
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, 4005 LSB, Provo, Utah 84602, United States.
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20
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Gilioli L, Potì F, Simoni M, Casarini L. Molecular basis of androgen action on human sexual desire. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:31-41. [PMID: 28893567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental process for the species maintenance and the propagation of genetic information. The energy expenditure for mating is overtaken by motivational stimuli, such as orgasm, finely regulated by steroid hormones, gonadotropins, neurotransmitters and molecules acting in the brain and peripheral organs. These functions are often investigated using animal models and translated to humans, where the androgens action is mediated by nuclear and membrane receptors converging in the regulation of both long-term genomic and rapid non-genomic signals. In both sexes, testosterone is a central player of this game and is involved in the regulation of sexual desire and arousal, and, finally, in reproduction through cognitive and peripheral physiological mechanisms which may decline with aging and circadian disruption. Finally, genetic variations impact on reproductive behaviours, resulting in sex-specific effect and different reproductive strategies. In this review, androgen actions on sexual desire are evaluated, focusing on the molecular levels of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lisa Gilioli
- Unit of Endocrinology, 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
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, 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
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21
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Kudryavtseva AV, Nyushko KM, Zaretsky AR, Shagin DA, Sadritdinova AF, Fedorova MS, Savvateeva MV, Guvatova ZG, Pudova EA, Alekseev BY, Dmitriev AA, Snezhkina AV. Suppression of NR0B2 gene in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Is Associated with Hypermethylation of Its Promoter. Mol Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893318030081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Sanders K, Mol JA, Slob A, Kooistra HS, Galac S. Steroidogenic factor-1 inverse agonists as a treatment option for canine hypercortisolism: in vitro study. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 63:23-30. [PMID: 29223003 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hypercortisolism is one of the most commonly diagnosed endocrinopathies in dogs, and new targeted medical treatment options are desirable. Steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1), an orphan nuclear hormone receptor, is a key regulator of adrenal steroidogenesis, development, and growth. In pituitary-dependent hypercortisolism (PDH), high plasma ACTH concentrations increase the transcriptional activity of SF-1. In adrenal-dependent hypercortisolism, SF-1 expression is significantly greater in dogs with recurrence after adrenalectomy than in those without recurrence. Inhibition of SF-1 could therefore be an interesting treatment option in canine spontaneous hypercortisolism. We determined the effects of 3 SF-1 inverse agonists, compounds IsoQ A, #31, and #32, on cortisol production, on the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of steroidogenic enzymes and SFs, and on cell viability, in primary adrenocortical cell cultures of 8 normal adrenal glands and of 3 cortisol-secreting adrenocortical tumors (ATs). To mimic PDH, the normal adrenocortical cell cultures were stimulated with ACTH. The results show that only compound #31 inhibited cortisol production and SF-1 target gene expression in non-ACTH-stimulated and ACTH-stimulated normal adrenocortical cells but did not affect cell viability. In the AT cell cultures, the effects of #31 on cortisol production and target gene expression were variable, possibly caused by a difference in the SF-1 mRNA expressions of the primary tumors. In conclusion, inhibition of SF-1 activity shows much promise as a future treatment for canine hypercortisolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sanders
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J A Mol
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A Slob
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H S Kooistra
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S Galac
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Campbell DEK, Langlois VS. Expression of sf1 and dax-1 are regulated by thyroid hormones and androgens during Silurana tropicalis early development. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 259:34-44. [PMID: 29107601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) and androgens have been shown to be extensively involved in sexual development; however, relatively little is known with regard to TH-related and androgenic actions in sex determination. We first established expression profiles of three sex-determining genes (sf1, dax-1, and sox9) during the embryonic development of Western clawed frogs (Silurana tropicalis). Transcripts of sf1 and sox9 were detected in embryos before the period in which embryonic transcription commences indicating maternal transfer, whereas dax-1 transcripts were not detected until later in development. To examine whether TH status affects sex-determining gene expression in embryonic S. tropicalis, embryos were exposed to co-treatments of iopanoic acid (IOP), thyroxine (T4), or triiodothyronine (T3) for 96 h. Expression profiles of TH receptors and deiodinases reflect inhibition of peripheral deiodinase activity by IOP and recovery by T3. Relevantly, elevated TH levels significantly increased the expression of sf1 and dax-1 in embryonic S. tropicalis. Further supporting TH-mediated regulation, examination of the presence and frequency of transcription factor binding sites in the putative promoter regions of sex-determining genes in S. tropicalis and rodent and fish models using in silico analysis also identified TH motifs in the putative promoter regions of sf1 and dax-1. Together these findings advocate that TH actions as early as the period of embryogenesis may affect gonadal fate in frogs. Mechanisms of TH and androgenic crosstalk in relation to the regulation of steroid-related gene expression were also investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON Canada; Institut National de la recherche scientifique (INRS) - Centre Eau Terre Environnement (ETE), Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, ON Canada.
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24
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Fallahsharoudi A, de Kock N, Johnsson M, Bektic L, Ubhayasekera SJKA, Bergquist J, Wright D, Jensen P. QTL mapping of stress related gene expression in a cross between domesticated chickens and ancestral red junglefowl. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 446:52-58. [PMID: 28189567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Domestication of animals is associated with numerous alterations in physiology, morphology, and behavior. Lower reactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and reduced fearfulness is seen in most studied domesticates, including chickens. Previously we have shown that the physiological stress response as well as expression levels of hundreds of genes in the hypothalamus and adrenal glands are different between domesticated White Leghorn and the progenitor of modern chickens, the Red Junglefowl. To map genetic loci associated with the transcription levels of genes involved in the physiological stress response, we conducted an eQTL analysis in the F12 generation of an inter-cross between White Leghorn and Red Junglefowl. We selected genes for further studies based on their known function in the regulation of the HPA axis or sympathoadrenal (SA) system, and measured their expression levels in the hypothalamus and the adrenal glands after a brief stress exposure (physical restraint). The expression values were treated as quantitative traits for the eQTL mapping. The plasma levels of corticosterone were also assessed. We analyzed the correlation between gene expression and corticosterone levels and mapped eQTL and their potential effects on corticosterone levels. The effects on gene transcription of a previously found QTL for corticosterone response were also investigated. The expression levels of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the hypothalamus and several genes in the adrenal glands were correlated with the post-stress levels of corticosterone in plasma. We found several cis- and trans-acting eQTL for stress-related genes in both hypothalamus and adrenal. In the hypothalamus, one eQTL for c-FOS and one QTL for expression of GR were found. In the adrenal tissue, we identified eQTL for the genes NR0B1, RGS4, DBH, MAOA, GRIN1, GABRB2, GABRB3, and HSF1. None of the found eQTL were significant predictors of corticosterone levels. The previously found QTL for corticosterone was associated with GR expression in hypothalamus. Our data suggests that domestication related modification in the stress response is driven by changes in the transcription levels of several modulators of the HPA and SA systems in hypothalamus and adrenal glands and not by changes in the expression of the steroidogenic genes. The presence of eQTL for GR in hypothalamus combined with the negative correlation between GR expression and corticosterone response suggests GR as a candidate for further functional studies regarding modification of stress response during chicken domestication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Fallahsharoudi
- AVIAN Behavioural Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Neil de Kock
- Department of Chemistry - Biomedical Center, Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry - BMC, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martin Johnsson
- AVIAN Behavioural Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lejla Bektic
- AVIAN Behavioural Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - S J Kumari A Ubhayasekera
- Department of Chemistry - Biomedical Center, Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry - BMC, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Bergquist
- Department of Chemistry - Biomedical Center, Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry - BMC, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dominic Wright
- AVIAN Behavioural Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per Jensen
- AVIAN Behavioural Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden.
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25
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Zhang Z, Yu Y, Xu H, Wang C, Ji M, Gu J, Yang L, Zhu J, Dong H, Wang SL. High-fat diet aggravates 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether-inhibited testosterone production via DAX-1 in Leydig cells in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 323:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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26
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Buonocore F, Kühnen P, Suntharalingham JP, Del Valle I, Digweed M, Stachelscheid H, Khajavi N, Didi M, Brady AF, Blankenstein O, Procter AM, Dimitri P, Wales JK, Ghirri P, Knöbl D, Strahm B, Erlacher M, Wlodarski MW, Chen W, Kokai GK, Anderson G, Morrogh D, Moulding DA, McKee SA, Niemeyer CM, Grüters A, Achermann JC. Somatic mutations and progressive monosomy modify SAMD9-related phenotypes in humans. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:1700-1713. [PMID: 28346228 PMCID: PMC5409795 DOI: 10.1172/jci91913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that somatic genomic changes can influence phenotypes in cancer, but the role of adaptive changes in developmental disorders is less well understood. Here we have used next-generation sequencing approaches to identify de novo heterozygous mutations in sterile α motif domain-containing protein 9 (SAMD9, located on chromosome 7q21.2) in 8 children with a multisystem disorder termed MIRAGE syndrome that is characterized by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with gonadal, adrenal, and bone marrow failure, predisposition to infections, and high mortality. These mutations result in gain of function of the growth repressor product SAMD9. Progressive loss of mutated SAMD9 through the development of monosomy 7 (-7), deletions of 7q (7q-), and secondary somatic loss-of-function (nonsense and frameshift) mutations in SAMD9 rescued the growth-restricting effects of mutant SAMD9 proteins in bone marrow and was associated with increased length of survival. However, 2 patients with -7 and 7q- developed myelodysplastic syndrome, most likely due to haploinsufficiency of related 7q21.2 genes. Taken together, these findings provide strong evidence that progressive somatic changes can occur in specific tissues and can subsequently modify disease phenotype and influence survival. Such tissue-specific adaptability may be a more common mechanism modifying the expression of human genetic conditions than is currently recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Buonocore
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London (UCL) Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Kühnen
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jenifer P. Suntharalingham
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London (UCL) Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ignacio Del Valle
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London (UCL) Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Digweed
- Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Harald Stachelscheid
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany, and Berlin-Brandenburg Centrum for Regenerative Therapies, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Noushafarin Khajavi
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mohammed Didi
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Angela F. Brady
- North West Thames Regional Genetics Service, Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Blankenstein
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annie M. Procter
- Institute of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Dimitri
- Academic Unit of Child Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Jerry K.H. Wales
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Health Queensland Clinical Unit, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Paolo Ghirri
- Department of Neonatology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Brigitte Strahm
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Erlacher
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marcin W. Wlodarski
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wei Chen
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - George K. Kokai
- Department of Paediatric Histopathology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn Anderson
- Histopathology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Morrogh
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Laboratory Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dale A. Moulding
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shane A. McKee
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte M. Niemeyer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Annette Grüters
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - John C. Achermann
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London (UCL) Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Strickland J, McIlmoil S, Williams BJ, Seager DC, Porter JP, Judd AM. Interleukin-6 increases the expression of key proteins associated with steroidogenesis in human NCI-H295R adrenocortical cells. Steroids 2017; 119:1-17. [PMID: 28063793 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms of interleukin-6 (IL-6)-induced cortisol release (CR) were investigated by exposing H295R cells to IL-6 and determining mRNA/protein expression (PCR/western blots) for steroidogenic enzymes (SE), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) (enhances SE/StAR expression), activator protein 1 (AP-1) (regulates SE/StAR expression) and adrenal hypoplasia congenita-like protein (DAX-1) (inhibits SE/StAR expression). Promoter activity of StAR (SPA) was measured by a luciferase-coupled promoter. Cortisol release was increased by 10ng/mL IL-6 (24h P<0.01). Proteins/mRNAs (StAR, cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme, SF-1, AP-1) and SPA were increased by IL-6 (60min 1-50ng/mL IL-6; 5ng/mL IL-6 30-120min P<0.05). Four other SE proteins/mRNAs were also increased by 10ng/mL IL-6 (60min P<0.01). Protein/mRNA for DAX-1 was decreased by IL-6 (60min 1-50ng/mL IL-6; 5ng/mL IL-6 30-120min P<0.01). Phosphorylation of Janus kinase (JAK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) was increased by IL-6 (JAK2 60min 1-50ng/mL IL-6; 10ng/mL IL-6 5-60min P<0.05; STAT1 and STAT3 60min 10ng/mL IL-6 P<0.01). Inhibition of JAK/STAT with AG490 (10μM) or piceatannol (50μM) blocked (P<0.01 10ng/mL IL-6vs. IL-6 plus AG490 or piceatannol) IL-6-induced increases in SPA and StAR mRNA. In summary, IL-6-induced CR may be facilitated by increased StAR and SE mediated by increased SF-1 and AP-1, decreased DAX-1, and increased phosphorylation of JAK/STAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janae Strickland
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States
| | - Stephen McIlmoil
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States
| | - Brice J Williams
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States
| | - Dennis C Seager
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States
| | - James P Porter
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States
| | - Allan M Judd
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, 2025 LSB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States.
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28
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Gan EH, Pearce SH. MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Regenerative therapies in autoimmune Addison's disease. Eur J Endocrinol 2017; 176:R123-R135. [PMID: 27810905 DOI: 10.1530/eje-16-0581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The treatment for autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) has remained virtually unchanged in the last 60 years. Most patients have symptoms that are relatively well controlled with exogenous steroid replacement, but there may be persistent symptoms, recurrent adrenal crisis and poor quality of life, despite good compliance with optimal current treatments. Treatment with conventional exogenous steroid therapy is also associated with premature mortality, increased cardiovascular risk and complications related to excessive steroid replacement. Hence, novel therapeutic approaches have emerged in the last decade attempting to improve the long-term outcome and quality of life of patients with AAD. This review discusses the recent developments in treatment innovations for AAD, including the novel exogenous steroid formulations with the intention of mimicking the physiological biorhythm of cortisol secretion. Our group has also carried out a few studies attempting to restore endogenous glucocorticoid production via immunomodulatory and regenerative medicine approaches. The recent advances in the understanding of adrenocortical stem cell biology, and adrenal plasticity will also be discussed to help comprehend the science behind the therapeutic approaches adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Earn H Gan
- Institute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life, Centre Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Simon H Pearce
- Institute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life, Centre Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Abstract
The process of sexual differentiation is central for reproduction of almost all metazoan and therefore for maintenance of practically all multicellular organisms. In sex development we can distinguish two different processes: First, sex determination is the developmental decision that directs the undifferentiated embryo into a sexually dimorphic individual. In mammals, sex determination equals gonadal development. The second process known as sex differentiation takes place once the sex determination decision has been made through factors produced by the gonads that determine the development of the phenotypic sex. Most of the knowledge on the factors involved in sexual development came from animal models and from studies of cases in whom the genetic or the gonadal sex does not match the phenotypical sex, i.e., patients affected by disorders of sex development (DSD). Generally speaking, factors influencing sex determination are transcriptional regulators, whereas factors important for sex differentiation are secreted hormones and their receptors. This review focuses on the factors involved in gonadal determination, and whenever possible, references on the "prismatic" clinical cases are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Biason-Lauber
- Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 5, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland.
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30
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McIlmoil S, Strickland J, Judd AM. Interleukin 6 increases the in vitro expression of key proteins associated with steroidogenesis in the bovine adrenal zona fasciculata. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2016; 55:11-24. [PMID: 26700094 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the in vitro effects of interleukin 6 (IL-6) on the messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and proteins for key steroidogenic factors in the bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (ZF) were determined. Bovine adrenal glands were obtained from an abattoir, and the ZF was isolated. Strips of ZF were then exposed to different concentration of murine IL-6 and/or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) for various intervals, the protein and mRNA extracted, and the mRNA and protein expression determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blots. Exposure (1 h) to IL-6 increased in a concentration-dependent manner (10-pg IL-6/mL, P < 0.05 vs control; 100-pg IL-6/mL, P < 0.01 vs control) the relative expression of the mRNAs and proteins for steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), 3β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (3β HSD), 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase/17,20-desmolase (P450 17OH), steroid 21-hydroxylase (P450 21OH), steroid 11-β-hydroxylase type 1 (P450 11βOH), and steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), a nuclear factor that increases StAR and steroidogenic enzymes (SEs) expression. Similarly, IL-6 (10 pg/mL) increased the relative expression of proteins and mRNAs for StAR, P450scc, 3β HSD, P450 17OH, P450 21 OH, P450 11βOH, and SF-1 in a time-dependent manner (30 min, P < 0.05 vs control; 60, 120, and 240 min, P < 0.01 vs control). In contrast, IL-6 decreased in a concentration-dependent (P < 0.01 vs control for 1, 10, and 100 pg IL-6/mL) and time-dependent (P < 0.05 vs control for 30, 60,120, and 240 min of 10 pg IL-6/mL) manner the relative expression of the mRNA and protein for adrenal hypoplasia congenita-like protein (DAX-1), a nuclear factor that decreases expression of StAR and SEs. Incubation (1 h) of ZF with 100-nM ACTH increased (P < 0.05 vs control) the relative expression of StAR, P450scc, 3β HSD, P450 17OH, P450 21OH, P450 11βOH, and SF-1 and decreased (P < 0.01 vs control) the relative expression of DAX-1. Murine IL-6 (10 pg/mL) augmented (P < 0.05 vs ACTH) both the stimulatory and inhibitory effects of ACTH. Bovine IL-6 (100 pg/mL, 1-h incubation) also increased (P < 0.01 vs control) the relative expression of the proteins for StAR, P450scc, and SF-1 and decreased (P < 0.01 vs control) the relative expression of DAX-1. In summary, IL-6 increased ZF expression of StAR and 5 SEs, which may be mediated in part by decreasing DAX-1 expression and increasing SF-1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- S McIlmoil
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - J Strickland
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - A M Judd
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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31
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Safe S, Jin UH, Morpurgo B, Abudayyeh A, Singh M, Tjalkens RB. Nuclear receptor 4A (NR4A) family - orphans no more. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 157:48-60. [PMID: 25917081 PMCID: PMC4618773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Revised: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The orphan nuclear receptors NR4A1, NR4A2 and NR4A3 are immediate early genes induced by multiple stressors, and the NR4A receptors play an important role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and disease. There is increasing evidence for the role of these receptors in metabolic, cardiovascular and neurological functions and also in inflammation and inflammatory diseases and in immune functions and cancer. Despite the similarities of NR4A1, NR4A2 and NR4A3 and their interactions with common cis-genomic elements, they exhibit unique activities and cell-/tissue-specific functions. Although endogenous ligands for NR4A receptors have not been identified, there is increasing evidence that structurally-diverse synthetic molecules can directly interact with the ligand binding domain of NR4A1 and act as agonists or antagonists, and ligands for NR4A2 and NR4A3 have also been identified. Since NR4A receptors are key factors in multiple diseases, there are opportunities for the future development of NR4A ligands for clinical applications in treating multiple health problems including metabolic, neurologic and cardiovascular diseases, other inflammatory conditions, and cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Arthritis/metabolism
- Cardiovascular Diseases/metabolism
- DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
- Homeostasis
- Humans
- Immunity, Cellular
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Ligands
- Metabolic Diseases/genetics
- Metabolic Diseases/metabolism
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 1/genetics
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 1/metabolism
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 2/genetics
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 2/metabolism
- Receptors, Steroid/metabolism
- Receptors, Thyroid Hormone/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
| | - Un-Ho Jin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Benjamin Morpurgo
- Texas A&M Institute for Genomic Medicine, Texas A&M University, 670 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Ala Abudayyeh
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Ronald B Tjalkens
- Department of Toxicology and Neuroscience, Colorado State University, 1680Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1680, USA
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Zhi X, Zhou XE, Melcher K, Xu HE. Structures and regulation of non-X orphan nuclear receptors: A retinoid hypothesis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 157:27-40. [PMID: 26159912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors are defined as a family of ligand regulated transcription factors [1-6]. While this definition reflects that ligand binding is a key property of nuclear receptors, it is still a heated subject of debate if all the nuclear receptors (48 human members) can bind ligands (ligands referred here to both physiological and synthetic ligands). Recent studies in nuclear receptor structure biology and pharmacology have undoubtedly increased our knowledge of nuclear receptor functions and their regulation. As a result, they point to new avenues for the discovery and development of nuclear receptor regulators, including nuclear receptor ligands. Here we review the recent literature on orphan nuclear receptor structural analysis and ligand identification, particularly on the orphan nuclear receptors that do not heterodimerize with retinoid X receptors, which we term as non-X orphan receptors. We also propose a speculative "retinoid hypothesis" for a subset of non-X orphan nuclear receptors, which we hope to help shed light on orphan nuclear receptor biology and drug discovery. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Orphan Nuclear Receptors'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Zhi
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; Autophagy Research Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| | - X Edward Zhou
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Karsten Melcher
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - H Eric Xu
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; VARI-SIMM Center, Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of MateriaMedica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.
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McIlmoil S, Call GB, Barney M, Strickland J, Judd AM. Interleukin-6 inhibits adrenal androgen release from bovine adrenal zona reticularis cells by inhibiting the expression of steroidogenic proteins. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2015. [PMID: 26218834 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is secreted by adrenocortical cells and modifies cortisol secretion. In this study, the effects of IL-6 on adrenal androgen release were investigated. The zona reticularis (ZR) was generally isolated from bovine adrenal glands by dissection. In select experiments, the intact adrenal cortex (ie, all 3 adrenocortical zones) was dissected from the adrenal glands. For androgen release experiments, ZR and intact adrenocortical cubes were dispersed into isolated cells, the cells cultured and exposed to IL-6 and/or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and androgen release determined by radioimmunoassay. Basal and ACTH-stimulated androgen release from the ZR was inhibited by IL-6 in a concentration-dependent (10-1000 pg/mL) and time-dependent (4-24 h) manner (P < 0.01 by 1-way analysis of variance and the Bonferroni test). In contrast, IL-6 increased basal and ACTH-stimulated androgen release from mixed adrenocortical cells (P < 0.01). The mechanism of IL-6 inhibition of androgen release was investigated by exposing ZR strips to IL-6 and measuring the expression of the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein of steroidogenic factors. Basal and ACTH-stimulated expression of the mRNA and protein for steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme, 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, steroid 17-α-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase/17,20 desmolase, and the nuclear factor steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), that stimulates steroidogenesis, were decreased by IL-6 (P < 0.01). In contrast IL-6 increased the mRNA and protein for dosage-sensitive sex reversal, adrenal hypoplasia critical region, on chromosome X, gene 1 (DAX-1), a nuclear factor that inhibits steroidogenesis (P < 0.01). In summary, IL-6 decreased androgen release and the expression of steroidogenic factors in the ZR, and this decrease may be mediated in part through increasing DAX-1 and decreasing SF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- S McIlmoil
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA; Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - G B Call
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA; Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - M Barney
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA; Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - J Strickland
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA; Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - A M Judd
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA; Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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Suntharalingham JP, Buonocore F, Duncan AJ, Achermann JC. DAX-1 (NR0B1) and steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1, NR5A1) in human disease. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2015; 29:607-19. [PMID: 26303087 PMCID: PMC5159745 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
DAX-1 (NR0B1) and SF-1 (NR5A1) are two nuclear receptor transcription factors that play a key role in human adrenal and reproductive development. Loss of DAX-1 function is classically associated with X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita. This condition typically affects boys and presents as primary adrenal insufficiency in early infancy or childhood, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism at puberty and impaired spermatogenesis. Late onset forms of this condition and variant phenotypes are increasingly recognized. In contrast, disruption of SF-1 only rarely causes adrenal insufficiency, usually in combination with testicular dysgenesis. Variants in SF-1/NR5A1 more commonly cause a spectrum of reproductive phenotypes ranging from 46,XY DSD (partial testicular dysgenesis or reduced androgen production) and hypospadias to male factor infertility or primary ovarian insufficiency. Making a specific diagnosis of DAX-1 or SF-1 associated conditions is important for long-term monitoring of endocrine and reproductive function, appropriate genetic counselling for family members, and for providing appropriate informed support for young people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Federica Buonocore
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Andrew J Duncan
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - John C Achermann
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
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Cidre-Aranaz F, Alonso J. EWS/FLI1 Target Genes and Therapeutic Opportunities in Ewing Sarcoma. Front Oncol 2015; 5:162. [PMID: 26258070 PMCID: PMC4507460 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive bone malignancy that affect children and young adults. Ewing sarcoma is the second most common primary bone malignancy in pediatric patients. Although significant progress has been made in the treatment of Ewing sarcoma since it was first described in the 1920s, in the last decade survival rates have remained unacceptably invariable, thus pointing to the need for new approaches centered in the molecular basis of the disease. Ewing sarcoma driving mutation, EWS–FLI1, which results from a chromosomal translocation, encodes an aberrant transcription factor. Since its first characterization in 1990s, many molecular targets have been described to be regulated by this chimeric transcription factor. Their contribution to orchestrate Ewing sarcoma phenotype has been reported over the last decades. In this work, we will focus on the description of a selection of EWS/FLI1 targets, their functional role, and their potential clinical relevance. We will also discuss their role in other types of cancer as well as the need for further studies to be performed in order to achieve a broader understanding of their particular contribution to Ewing sarcoma development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Cidre-Aranaz
- Unidad de Tumores Sólidos Infantiles, Área de Genética Humana, Instituto de Investigación de Enfermedades Raras, Instituto de Salud Carlos III , Madrid , Spain
| | - Javier Alonso
- Unidad de Tumores Sólidos Infantiles, Área de Genética Humana, Instituto de Investigación de Enfermedades Raras, Instituto de Salud Carlos III , Madrid , Spain
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George RM, Hahn KL, Rawls A, Viger RS, Wilson-Rawls J. Notch signaling represses GATA4-induced expression of genes involved in steroid biosynthesis. Reproduction 2015; 150:383-94. [PMID: 26183893 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Notch2 and Notch3 and genes of the Notch signaling network are dynamically expressed in developing follicles, where they are essential for granulosa cell proliferation and meiotic maturation. Notch receptors, ligands, and downstream effector genes are also expressed in testicular Leydig cells, predicting a potential role in regulating steroidogenesis. In this study, we sought to determine if Notch signaling in small follicles regulates the proliferation response of granulosa cells to FSH and represses the up-regulation steroidogenic gene expression that occurs in response to FSH as the follicle grows. Inhibition of Notch signaling in small preantral follicles led to the up-regulation of the expression of genes in the steroid biosynthetic pathway. Similarly, progesterone secretion by MA-10 Leydig cells was significantly inhibited by constitutively active Notch. Together, these data indicated that Notch signaling inhibits steroidogenesis. GATA4 has been shown to be a positive regulator of steroidogenic genes, including STAR protein, P450 aromatase, and 3B-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. We observed that Notch downstream effectors HEY1, HEY2, and HEYL are able to differentially regulate these GATA4-dependent promoters. These data are supported by the presence of HEY/HES binding sites in these promoters. These studies indicate that Notch signaling has a role in the complex regulation of the steroidogenic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajani M George
- School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
| | - Katherine L Hahn
- School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
| | - Alan Rawls
- School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
| | - Robert S Viger
- School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4 School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
| | - Jeanne Wilson-Rawls
- School of Life SciencesArizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, Arizona 85827-45012, USAReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec and Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Quebec City, Quebec, CanadaDepartment of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
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Camats N, Audí L, Fernández-Cancio M, Andaluz P, Mullis PE, Carrascosa A, Flück CE. LRH-1 May Rescue SF-1 Deficiency for Steroidogenesis: An in vitro and in vivo Study. Sex Dev 2015; 9:144-54. [DOI: 10.1159/000381575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Haselman JT, Olmstead AW, Degitz SJ. Global gene expression during early differentiation of Xenopus (Silurana) tropicalis gonad tissues. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 214:103-13. [PMID: 24960269 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
African clawed frog Xenopus sp. is used extensively for developmental biology and toxicology research. Amid concerns of environmental pollutants disrupting endocrine systems and causing altered reproductive development in wildlife, eco-toxicology research has led to a focus on linking molecular initiating events to population-level effects. As such, efforts to better understand reproductive development at the molecular level in these model species are warranted. To that end, transcriptomes were characterized in differentiating Xenopus tropicalis gonad tissues at Nieuwkoop and Faber (NF) stage 58 (pro-metamorphosis), NF66 (completion of metamorphosis), 1week post-metamorphosis (1WPM), and 2weeks post-metamorphosis (2WPM). Differential expression analysis between tissue types at each developmental stage revealed a substantial divergence of ovary and testis transcriptomes starting between NF58 and NF66; transcriptomes continued to diverge through 2WPM. Generally, testis-enriched transcripts were expressed at relatively constant levels, while ovary-enriched transcripts were up-regulated within this developmental period. Functional analyses of differentially expressed transcripts allowed linkages to be made between their putative human orthologues and specific cellular processes associated with differentiating gonad tissues. In ovary tissue, genetic programs direct germ cells through meiosis to the diplotene stage when maternal mRNAs are transcribed and trafficked to oocytes for translation following fertilization. In the testis, gene expression is consistent with connective tissue development, tubule formation, and germ cell support (Leydig and Sertoli cells). This dataset exhibited remarkable consistency with transcript profiles previously described in gonad tissues across species, and emphasizes the universal importance of certain transcripts for germ cell development and preparation of these tissues for reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan T Haselman
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Mid-Continent Ecology Division, 6201 Congdon Blvd., Duluth, MN 55804, USA.
| | - Allen W Olmstead
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Mid-Continent Ecology Division, 6201 Congdon Blvd., Duluth, MN 55804, USA.
| | - Sigmund J Degitz
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Mid-Continent Ecology Division, 6201 Congdon Blvd., Duluth, MN 55804, USA.
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39
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Orekhova AS, Rubtsov PM. DAX1, an unusual member of the nuclear receptor superfamily with diverse functions. Mol Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893315010124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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40
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Abstract
The purpose of this article is to review fundamentals in adrenal gland histophysiology. Key findings regarding the important signaling pathways involved in the regulation of steroidogenesis and adrenal growth are summarized. We illustrate how adrenal gland morphology and function are deeply interconnected in which novel signaling pathways (Wnt, Sonic hedgehog, Notch, β-catenin) or ionic channels are required for their integrity. Emphasis is given to exploring the mechanisms and challenges underlying the regulation of proliferation, growth, and functionality. Also addressed is the fact that while it is now well-accepted that steroidogenesis results from an enzymatic shuttle between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, key questions still remain on the various aspects related to cellular uptake and delivery of free cholesterol. The significant progress achieved over the past decade regarding the precise molecular mechanisms by which the two main regulators of adrenal cortex, adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and angiotensin II act on their receptors is reviewed, including structure-activity relationships and their potential applications. Particular attention has been given to crucial second messengers and how various kinases, phosphatases, and cytoskeleton-associated proteins interact to ensure homeostasis and/or meet physiological demands. References to animal studies are also made in an attempt to unravel associated clinical conditions. Many of the aspects addressed in this article still represent a challenge for future studies, their outcome aimed at providing evidence that the adrenal gland, through its steroid hormones, occupies a central position in many situations where homeostasis is disrupted, thus highlighting the relevance of exploring and understanding how this key organ is regulated. © 2014 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 4:889-964, 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gallo-Payet
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, and Centre de Recherche Clinique Étienne-Le Bel of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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41
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Abstract
The adrenal gland consists of two distinct parts, the cortex and the medulla. Molecular mechanisms controlling differentiation and growth of the adrenal gland have been studied in detail using mouse models. Knowledge also came from investigations of genetic disorders altering adrenal development and/or function. During embryonic development, the adrenal cortex acquires a structural and functional zonation in which the adrenal cortex is divided into three different steroidogenic zones. Significant progress has been made in understanding adrenal zonation. Recent lineage tracing experiments have accumulated evidence for a centripetal differentiation of adrenocortical cells from the subcapsular area to the inner part of the adrenal cortex. Understanding of the mechanism of adrenocortical cancer (ACC) development was stimulated by knowledge of adrenal gland development. ACC is a rare cancer with a very poor overall prognosis. Abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-catenin as well as the IGF2 signaling plays an important role in ACC development. Studies examining rare genetic syndromes responsible for familial ACT have played an important role in identifying genetic alterations in these tumors (like TP53 or CTNNB1 mutations as well as IGF2 overexpression). Recently, genomic analyses of ACT have shown gene expression profiles associated with malignancy as well as chromosomal and methylation alterations in ACT and exome sequencing allowed to describe the mutational landscape of these tumors. This progress leads to a new classification of these tumors, opening new perspectives for the diagnosis and prognostication of ACT. This review summarizes current knowledge of adrenocortical development, growth, and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Lefèvre
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France Department of Endocrinology, Referral Center for Rare Adrenal Diseases, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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Role of Orphan Nuclear Receptor DAX-1/NR0B1 in Development, Physiology, and Disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1155/2014/582749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
DAX-1/NR0B1 is an unusual orphan receptor that has a pivotal role in the development and function of steroidogenic tissues and of the reproductive axis. Recent studies have also indicated that this transcription factor has an important function in stem cell biology and in several types of cancer. Here I critically review the most important findings on the role of DAX-1 in development, physiology, and disease of endocrine tissues since the cloning of its gene twenty years ago.
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Lee KC, Wong WK, Feng B. Decoding the Pluripotency Network: The Emergence of New Transcription Factors. Biomedicines 2013; 1:49-78. [PMID: 28548056 PMCID: PMC5423462 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines1010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the successful isolation of mouse and human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in the past decades, massive investigations have been conducted to dissect the pluripotency network that governs the ability of these cells to differentiate into all cell types. Beside the core Oct4-Sox2-Nanog circuitry, accumulating regulators, including transcription factors, epigenetic modifiers, microRNA and signaling molecules have also been found to play important roles in preserving pluripotency. Among the various regulations that orchestrate the cellular pluripotency program, transcriptional regulation is situated in the central position and appears to be dominant over other regulatory controls. In this review, we would like to summarize the recent advancements in the accumulating findings of new transcription factors that play a critical role in controlling both pluripotency network and ESC identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chuen Lee
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 105A, 1/F, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China.
| | - Wing Ki Wong
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 105A, 1/F, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China.
| | - Bo Feng
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 105A, 1/F, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China.
- SBS Core Laboratory, Shenzhen Research Institute, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, 4/F CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute Building, No.10, 2nd Yuexing Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518057, China.
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44
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Safe S, Jin UH, Hedrick E, Reeder A, Lee SO. Minireview: role of orphan nuclear receptors in cancer and potential as drug targets. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 28:157-72. [PMID: 24295738 DOI: 10.1210/me.2013-1291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear orphan receptors for which endogenous ligands have not been identified include nuclear receptor (NR)0B1 (adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on chromosome X gene), NR0B2 (small heterodimer partner), NR1D1/2 (Rev-Erbα/β), NR2C1 (testicular receptor 2), NR2C2 (testicular receptor 4), NR2E1 (tailless), NR2E3 (photoreceptor-specific NR [PNR]), NR2F1 chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factor 1 (COUP-TFI), NR2F2 (COUP-TFII), NR2F6 (v-erbA-related protein), NR4A1 (Nur77), NR4A2 (Nurr1), NR4A3 (Nor1), and NR6A1 (GCNF). These receptors play essential roles in development, cellular homeostasis, and disease including cancer where over- or underexpression of some receptors has prognostic significance for patient survival. Results of receptor knockdown or overexpression in vivo and in cancer cell lines demonstrate that orphan receptors exhibit tumor-specific pro-oncogenic or tumor suppressor-like activity. For example, COUP-TFII expression is both a positive (ovarian) and negative (prostate and breast) prognostic factor for cancer patients; in contrast, the prognostic activity of adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on chromosome X gene for the same tumors is the inverse of COUP-TFII. Functional studies show that Nur77 is tumor suppressor like in acute leukemia, whereas silencing Nur77 in pancreatic, colon, lung, lymphoma, melanoma, cervical, ovarian, gastric, and some breast cancer cell lines induces one or more of several responses including growth inhibition and decreased survival, migration, and invasion. Although endogenous ligands for the orphan receptors have not been identified, there is increasing evidence that different structural classes of compounds activate, inactivate, and directly bind several orphan receptors. Thus, the screening and development of selective orphan receptor modulators will have important clinical applications as novel mechanism-based agents for treating cancer patients overexpressing one or more orphan receptors and also for combined drug therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology (S.S., E.H., A.R.), Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77808; and Institute of Biosciences and Technology (S.S., U.-H.J., S.-O.L.), Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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45
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Abstract
The nuclear receptor superfamily includes many receptors, identified based on their similarity to steroid hormone receptors but without a known ligand. The study of how these receptors are diversely regulated to interact with genomic regions to control a plethora of biological processes has provided critical insight into development, physiology, and the molecular pathology of disease. Here we provide a compendium of these so-called orphan receptors and focus on what has been learned about their modes of action, physiological functions, and therapeutic promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Mullican
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, and The Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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46
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Li J, Daly E, Campioli E, Wabitsch M, Papadopoulos V. De novo synthesis of steroids and oxysterols in adipocytes. J Biol Chem 2013; 289:747-64. [PMID: 24280213 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.534172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Local production and action of cholesterol metabolites such as steroids or oxysterols within endocrine tissues are currently recognized as an important principle in the cell type- and tissue-specific regulation of hormone effects. In adipocytes, one of the most abundant endocrine cells in the human body, the de novo production of steroids or oxysterols from cholesterol has not been examined. Here, we demonstrate that essential components of cholesterol transport and metabolism machinery in the initial steps of steroid and/or oxysterol biosynthesis pathways are present and active in adipocytes. The ability of adipocyte CYP11A1 in producing pregnenolone is demonstrated for the first time, rendering adipocyte a steroidogenic cell. The oxysterol 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), synthesized by the mitochondrial enzyme CYP27A1, was identified as one of the major de novo adipocyte products from cholesterol and its precursor mevalonate. Inhibition of CYP27A1 activity or knockdown and deletion of the Cyp27a1 gene induced adipocyte differentiation, suggesting a paracrine or autocrine biological significance for the adipocyte-derived 27HC. These findings suggest that the presence of the 27HC biosynthesis pathway in adipocytes may represent a defense mechanism to prevent the formation of new fat cells upon overfeeding with dietary cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehan Li
- From the Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, and
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47
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Flood DEK, Fernandino JI, Langlois VS. Thyroid hormones in male reproductive development: evidence for direct crosstalk between the androgen and thyroid hormone axes. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 192:2-14. [PMID: 23524004 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Revised: 02/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) exert a broad range of effects on development in vertebrate species, demonstrating connections in nearly every biological endocrine system. In particular, studies have shown that THs play a role in sexual differentiation and gonadal development in mammalian and non-mammalian species. There is considerable evidence that the effects of THs on reproductive development are mediated through the female hormonal axis; however, recent findings suggest a more direct crosstalk between THs and the androgen axis. These findings demonstrate that THs have considerable influence in the sexual ontogeny of male vertebrates, through direct interactions with select sex-determining-genes and regulation of gonadotropin production in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis. THs also regulate androgen biosynthesis and signaling through direct and indirect regulation of steroidogenic enzyme expression and activity. Novel promoter analysis presented in this work demonstrates the potential for direct and vertebrate wide crosstalk at the transcriptional level in mice (Mus musculus), Western clawed frogs (Silurana tropicalis) and medaka (Oryzias latipes). Cumulative evidence from previous studies; coupled with novel promoter analysis suggests mechanisms for a more direct crosstalk between the TH and male reproductive axes across vertebrate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana E K Flood
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, ON, Canada; Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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Llera-Herrera R, García-Gasca A, Abreu-Goodger C, Huvet A, Ibarra AM. Identification of male gametogenesis expressed genes from the scallop Nodipecten subnodosus by suppressive subtraction hybridization and pyrosequencing. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73176. [PMID: 24066034 PMCID: PMC3774672 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great advances in sequencing technologies, genomic and transcriptomic information for marine non-model species with ecological, evolutionary, and economical interest is still scarce. In this work we aimed to identify genes expressed during spermatogenesis in the functional hermaphrodite scallop Nodipecten subnodosus (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Pectinidae), with the purpose of obtaining a panel of genes that would allow for the study of differentially transcribed genes between diploid and triploid scallops in the context of meiotic arrest and reproductive sterility. Because our aim was to isolate genes involved in meiosis and other testis maturation-related processes, we generated suppressive subtractive hybridization libraries of testis vs. inactive gonad. We obtained 352 and 177 ESTs by clone sequencing, and using pyrosequencing (454-Roche) we maximized the identified ESTs to 34,276 reads. A total of 1,153 genes from the testis library had a blastx hit and GO annotation, including genes specific for meiosis, spermatogenesis, sex-differentiation, and transposable elements. Some of the identified meiosis genes function in chromosome pairing (scp2, scp3), recombination and DNA repair (dmc1, rad51, ccnb1ip1/hei10), and meiotic checkpoints (rad1, hormad1, dtl/cdt2). Gene expression analyses in different gametogenic stages in both sexual regions of the gonad of meiosis genes confirmed that the expression was specific or increased towards the maturing testis. Spermatogenesis genes included known testis-specific ones (kelch-10, shippo1, adad1), with some of these known to be associated to sterility. Sex differentiation genes included one of the most conserved genes at the bottom of the sex-determination cascade (dmrt1). Transcript from transposable elements, reverse transcriptase, and transposases in this library evidenced that transposition is an active process during spermatogenesis in N. subnodosus. In relation to the inactive library, we identified 833 transcripts with functional annotation related to activation of the transcription and translation machinery, as well as to germline control and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Llera-Herrera
- Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | | | - Cei Abreu-Goodger
- Laboratorio Nacional de Genómica para la Biodiversidad (Langebio), Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Arnaud Huvet
- Laboratoire des Sciences de l'Environnement Marin, Institut Français de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer, (IFREMER), Centre de Bretagne, Plouzané, France
| | - Ana M. Ibarra
- Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
- * E-mail:
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DAX1 regulatory networks unveil conserved and potentially new functions. Gene 2013; 530:66-74. [PMID: 23954228 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
DAX1 is an orphan nuclear receptor with actions in mammalian sex determination, regulation of steroidogenesis, embryonic development and neural differentiation. Conserved patterns of DAX1 gene expression from mammals to fish have been taken to suggest conserved function. In the present study, the European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax, DAX1 promoter was isolated and its conserved features compared to other fish and mammalian DAX1 promoters in order to derive common regulators and functional gene networks. Fish and mammalian DAX1 promoters share common sets of transcription factor frameworks which were also present in the promoter region of another 127 genes. Pathway analysis clustered these into candidate gene networks associated with the fish and mammalian DAX1. The networks identified are concordant with described functions for DAX1 in embryogenesis, regulation of transcription, endocrine development and steroid production. Novel candidate gene network partners were also identified, which implicate DAX1 in ion homeostasis and transport, lipid transport and skeletal development. Experimental evidence is provided supporting roles for DAX1 in steroid signalling and osmoregulation in fish. These results highlight the usefulness of the in silico comparative approach to analyse gene regulation for hypothesis generation. Conserved promoter architecture can be used also to predict potentially new gene functions. The approach reported can be applied to genes from model and non-model species.
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DAX-1, as an androgen-target gene, inhibits aromatase expression: a novel mechanism blocking estrogen-dependent breast cancer cell proliferation. Cell Death Dis 2013; 4:e724. [PMID: 23846226 PMCID: PMC3730409 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2013.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Revised: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sexual hormones, estrogens and androgens, determine biological response in a tissue- and gender-specific manner and have a pivotal role in endocrine-mediated tumorigenesis. In situ estrogen production by aromatase is a critical determinant for breast cancer growth and progression. On the contrary, clinical and in vitro studies indicate that androgens have a protective role in mammary carcinogenesis. Here, we demonstrated, in hormone-dependent breast cancer cells, the existence of a functional interplay between the androgen receptor (AR), the orphan nuclear receptor DAX-1 and the aromatase enzyme involved in the inhibition of the estrogen-dependent breast cancer cell proliferation exerted by androgen signaling. Indeed, our results revealed, in MCF-7 cells, that ligand-activated AR induces the expression of the orphan nuclear receptor DAX-1 by direct binding to a newly identified androgen-response-element within the DAX-1 proximal promoter. In turn, androgen-induced DAX-1 is recruited, in association with the corepressor N-CoR, within the SF-1/LRH-1 containing region of the aromatase promoter, thereby repressing aromatase expression and activity. In elucidating a novel mechanism by which androgens, through DAX-1, inhibit aromatase expression in breast cancer cell lines, these findings reinforce the theory of androgen- opposing estrogen-action, opening new avenues for therapeutic intervention in estrogen-dependent breast tumors.
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