1
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Shorthill SK, Jones TLM, Woulfe KC, Cherrington BD, Bruns DR. The influence of estrogen on myocardial post-translational modifications and cardiac function in women. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2024; 102:452-464. [PMID: 38266237 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2023-0412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The lifetime risk of heart failure (HF) is comparable in men and women; nevertheless, disparities exist in our understanding of how HF differs between sexes. Several differences in cardiac physiology exist between men and women including the propensity to develop specific HF phenotypes. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with HF failure with reduced ejection fraction, while women have a greater propensity to develop HF with preserved ejection fraction. The mechanisms responsible for these differences remain unclear. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of myofilament proteins likely contribute to these sex-specific propensities. The role of PTMs in heart disease is an expanding field with immense potential therapeutic targets. However, numerous PTMs remain underexplored, particularly in the context of the female heart. Estrogen, a key gonadal hormone, cardioprotective in pre-menopausal women and its loss with menopause likely contributes to disease in aging women. However, how estrogen regulates PTMs to contribute to HF development is not fully clear. This review outlines key sex differences in HF along with characterizing the contributions of novel myocardial PTMs in cardiac physiology and their regulation by estrogen. Collectively, we highlight the necessity for further investigation into women's heart health and the distinctive mechanisms distinguishing women from men.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy L M Jones
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathleen C Woulfe
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brian D Cherrington
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Danielle R Bruns
- Division of Kinesiology and Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
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2
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Barry C, Rouhana S, Braun JL, Geromella MS, Fajardo VA, Pyle WG. Perimenopause Decreases SERCA2a Activity in the Hearts of a Mouse Model of Ovarian Failure. Biomolecules 2024; 14:675. [PMID: 38927078 PMCID: PMC11201532 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Risk of cardiovascular disease mortality rises in women after menopause. While increased cardiovascular risk is largely attributed to postmenopausal declines in estrogens, the molecular changes in the heart that contribute to risk are poorly understood. Disruptions in intracellular calcium handling develop in ovariectomized mice and have been implicated in cardiac dysfunction. Using a mouse model of menopause in which ovarian failure occurs over 120 days, we sought to determine if perimenopause impacted calcium removal mechanisms in the heart and identify the molecular mechanisms. Mice were injected with 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) to induce ovarian failure over 120 days, mimicking perimenopause. Hearts were removed at 60 and 120 days after VCD injections, representing the middle and end of perimenopause. SERCA2a function was significantly diminished at the end of perimenopause. Neither SERCA2a nor phospholamban expression changed at either time point, but phospholamban phosphorylation at S16 and T17 was dynamically altered. Intrinsic SERCA inhibitors sarcolipin and myoregulin increased >4-fold at day 60, as did the native activator DWORF. At the end of perimenopause, sarcolipin and myoregulin returned to baseline levels while DWORF was significantly reduced below controls. Sodium-calcium exchanger expression was significantly increased at the end of perimenopause. These results show that the foundation for increased cardiovascular disease mortality develops in the heart during perimenopause and that regulators of calcium handling exhibit significant fluctuations over time. Understanding the temporal development of cardiovascular risk associated with menopause and the underlying mechanisms is critical to developing interventions that mitigate the rise in cardiovascular mortality that arises after menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara Barry
- IMPART Team Canada Investigator Network, Dalhousie Medicine, Saint John, NB E2K 5E2, Canada
| | - Sarah Rouhana
- IMPART Team Canada Investigator Network, Dalhousie Medicine, Saint John, NB E2K 5E2, Canada
| | - Jessica L. Braun
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada (V.A.F.)
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Mia S. Geromella
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada (V.A.F.)
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Val A. Fajardo
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada (V.A.F.)
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - W. Glen Pyle
- IMPART Team Canada Investigator Network, Dalhousie Medicine, Saint John, NB E2K 5E2, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute at BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
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3
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Luo Y, Safabakhsh S, Palumbo A, Fiset C, Shen C, Parker J, Foster LJ, Laksman Z. Sex-Based Mechanisms of Cardiac Development and Function: Applications for Induced-Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived-Cardiomyocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5964. [PMID: 38892161 PMCID: PMC11172775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Males and females exhibit intrinsic differences in the structure and function of the heart, while the prevalence and severity of cardiovascular disease vary in the two sexes. However, the mechanisms of this sex-based dimorphism are yet to be elucidated. Sex chromosomes and sex hormones are the main contributors to sex-based differences in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. In recent years, the advances in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac models and multi-omic approaches have enabled a more comprehensive understanding of the sex-specific differences in the human heart. Here, we provide an overview of the roles of these two factors throughout cardiac development and explore the sex hormone signaling pathways involved. We will also discuss how the employment of stem cell-based cardiac models and single-cell RNA sequencing help us further investigate sex differences in healthy and diseased hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhan Luo
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; (Y.L.); (J.P.)
| | - Sina Safabakhsh
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada;
| | - Alessia Palumbo
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (A.P.); (L.J.F.)
| | - Céline Fiset
- Research Centre, Montreal Heart Institute, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada;
| | - Carol Shen
- Department of Integrated Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada;
| | - Jeremy Parker
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; (Y.L.); (J.P.)
| | - Leonard J. Foster
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (A.P.); (L.J.F.)
| | - Zachary Laksman
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; (Y.L.); (J.P.)
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada;
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4
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Sullivan BP, Collins BC, McMillin SL, Toussaint E, Stein CZ, Spangenburg EE, Lowe DA. Ablation of skeletal muscle estrogen receptor alpha impairs contractility in male mice. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 136:764-773. [PMID: 38328824 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00714.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Estradiol and estrogen receptor α (ERα) have been shown to be important for the maintenance of skeletal muscle strength in females; however, little is known about the roles of estradiol and ERα in male muscle. The purpose of this study was to determine if skeletal muscle ERα is required for optimal contractility in male mice. We hypothesize that reduced ERα in skeletal muscle impairs contractility in male mice. Skeletal muscle-specific knockout (skmERαKO) male mice exhibited reduced strength across multiple muscles and several contractile parameters related to force generation and kinetics compared with wild-type littermates (skmERαWT). Isolated EDL muscle-specific isometric tetanic force, peak twitch force, peak concentric and peak eccentric forces, as well as the maximal rates of force development and relaxation were 11%-21% lower in skmERαKO compared with skmERαWT mice. In contrast, isolated soleus muscles from skmERαKO mice were not affected. In vivo peak torque of the anterior crural muscles was 20% lower in skmERαKO compared with skmERαWT mice. Muscle masses, contractile protein contents, fiber types, phosphorylation of the myosin regulatory light chain, and caffeine-elicited force did not differ between muscles of skmERαKO and skmERαWT mice, suggesting that strength deficits were not due to size, composition, or calcium release components of muscle contraction. These results indicate that in male mice, reduced skeletal muscle ERα blunts contractility to a magnitude similar to that previously reported in females; however, the mechanism may be sexually dimorphic.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We comprehensively measured in vitro and in vivo contractility of leg muscles with reduced estrogen receptor α (ERα) in male mice and reported that force generation and contraction kinetics are impaired. In contrast to findings in females, phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain cannot account for low force production in male skeletal muscle ERα knockout mice. These results indicate that ERα is required for optimal contractility in males and females but via sexually dimorphic means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Sullivan
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Brittany C Collins
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Shawna L McMillin
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Elise Toussaint
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Clara Z Stein
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Espen E Spangenburg
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Division of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
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5
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Mashouri P, Saboune J, Pyle WG, Power GA. Effects of chemically induced ovarian failure on single muscle fiber contractility in a mouse model of menopause. Maturitas 2024; 180:107885. [PMID: 38061310 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2023.107885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopause is associated with impaired skeletal muscle contractile function. The temporal and mechanistic bases of this dysfunction are unknown. Using a mouse model of menopause, we identified how gradual ovarian failure affects single muscle fiber contractility. STUDY DESIGN Ovarian failure was chemically induced over 120 days, representing the perimenopausal transition. Mice were sacrificed and soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles were dissected and chemically permeabilized for single fiber mechanical testing. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Muscle fiber contractility was assessed via force, rate of force redevelopment, instantaneous stiffness, and calcium sensitivity. RESULTS Peak force and cross-sectional area of the soleus were, respectively, ~33 % and ~24 % greater following ovarian failure compared with controls (p < 0.05) with no differences in force produced by the extensor digitorum longus across groups (p > 0.05). Upon normalizing force to cross-sectional area there were no differences across groups (p > 0.05). Following ovarian failure, rate of force redevelopment of single fibers from the soleus was ~33 % faster compared with controls. There was no shift in the midpoint of the force‑calcium curve between groups or muscles (p > 0.05). However, following ovarian failure, Type I fibers from the soleus had a higher calcium sensitivity between pCa values of 4.5 and 6.2 compared with controls (p < 0.05), with no differences for Type II fibers or the extensor digitorum longus (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In our model of menopause, alterations to muscle contractility were less evident than in ovariectomized models. This divergence across models highlights the importance of better approximating the natural trajectory of menopause during and after the transitional phase of ovarian failure on neuromuscular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parastoo Mashouri
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jinan Saboune
- IMPART Team Canada, Dalhousie Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - W Glen Pyle
- IMPART Team Canada, Dalhousie Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Geoffrey A Power
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
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Ramírez-Hernández D, López-Sánchez P, Lezama-Martínez D, Kuyoc-Arroyo NM, Rodríguez-Rodríguez JE, Fonseca-Coronado S, Valencia-Hernández I, Flores-Monroy J. Timing Matters: Effects of Early and Late Estrogen Replacement Therapy on Glucose Metabolism and Vascular Reactivity in Ovariectomized Aged Wistar Rats. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2023; 2023:6683989. [PMID: 38025203 PMCID: PMC10665112 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6683989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease incidence increases after menopause due to the loss of estrogen cardioprotective effects. However, there are conflicting data regarding the timing of estrogen therapy (ERT) and its effect on vascular dysfunction associated with impaired glucose metabolism. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of early and late ERT on blood glucose/insulin balance and vascular reactivity in aged ovariectomized Wistar rats. Eighteen-month-old female Wistar rats were randomized as follows: (1) sham, (2) 10-week postovariectomy (10 w), (3) 10 w postovariectomy+early estradiol therapy (10 w-early E2), (4) 20-week postovariectomy (20 w), and (5) 20-week postovariectomy+late estradiol therapy (20 w-late E2). Early E2 was administered 3 days after ovariectomy and late therapy after 10 weeks, in both groups. 17β-Estradiol (E2) was administered daily for 10 weeks (5 μg/kg/day). Concentration-response curves to angiotensin II, KCl, and acetylcholine (ACh) were performed. Heart rate (HR), diastolic and systolic blood pressure (DBP and SBP), glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, and nitric oxide (NO) levels were determined. Higher glucose levels were found in all groups compared to the sham group, except the 20 w-late E2 group. Insulin was increased in all ovariectomized groups compared to sham. The HOMA-IR index showed insulin resistance in all ovariectomized groups, except for the 10 w-early E2 group. The 10 w-early E2 group increased NO levels vs. the 10 w group. After 10 w postovariectomy, the vascular response to KCl and Ach increases, despite early E2 administration. Early and late E2 treatment decreased vascular reactivity to Ang II. At 20-week postovariectomy, DBP increased, even with E2 administration, while SBP and HR remained unchanged. The effects of E2 therapy on blood glucose/insulin balance and vascular reactivity depend on the timing of therapy. Early ERT may provide some protective effects on insulin resistance and vascular function, whereas late ERT may not have the same benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Ramírez-Hernández
- Myocardial Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 54740 State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Pedro López-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Farmacología Molecular, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Diego Lezama-Martínez
- Myocardial Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 54740 State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Neidy M. Kuyoc-Arroyo
- Myocardial Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 54740 State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Jessica E. Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Biological Pharmaceutical Chemist Career, Faculty of Higher Education Zaragoza, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Batalla 5 de Mayo S/N, Ejército de Oriente, Iztapalapa, 09230 Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratory 7, Biomedicine Unit, Faculty of Higher Education Iztacala, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Ixtacala, 54090 Tlalnepantla de Baz, Mexico
| | - Salvador Fonseca-Coronado
- Immunology Laboratory, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 54740 State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Valencia-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Farmacología Cardiovascular, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jazmin Flores-Monroy
- Myocardial Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 54740 State of Mexico, Mexico
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7
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Wawrzyniak N, Gramza-Michałowska A, Kurzawa P, Kołodziejski P, Suliburska J. Calcium carbonate-enriched pumpkin affects calcium status in ovariectomized rats. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 60:1402-1413. [PMID: 36936115 PMCID: PMC10020404 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-023-05686-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3)-enriched pumpkin may serve as a good source of calcium for patients diagnosed with osteoporosis. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of CaCO3-enriched pumpkin on Ca status in ovariectomized rats. The study included 40 female Wistar rats divided into five groups (n = 8). One group was fed with a standard diet (control group), while the other four groups were ovariectomized and received a standard diet (control ovariectomized group), or a diet containing CaCO3-enriched pumpkin, alendronate, or both. The nutritional intervention lasted 12 weeks, and then the rats were euthanized. Tissue and blood samples were collected and assessed for the levels of total Ca, estradiol, parathyroid hormone, and procollagen type I N propeptide. In addition, a histological analysis was performed on femurs. The results of the study suggest that CaCO3-enriched pumpkin can increase Ca content in femurs and improve bone recovery in ovariectomized rats. Furthermore, enriched pumpkin contributes to Ca accumulation in the kidneys, and this effect is more pronounced in combination with alendronate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Wawrzyniak
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 31 Wojska Polskiego St., 60-624 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Gramza-Michałowska
- Department of Gastronomy Science and Functional Foods, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60-624 Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł Kurzawa
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-355 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Oncological Pathology, Pozna University of Medical Sciences, Szamarzewskiego 84, 60-596 Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł Kołodziejski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 28, 60-637 Poznan, Poland
| | - Joanna Suliburska
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 31 Wojska Polskiego St., 60-624 Poznan, Poland
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8
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Peyton MP, Yang TY, Higgins L, Markowski TW, Vue C, Parker LL, Lowe DA. Global phosphoproteomic profiling of skeletal muscle in ovarian hormone-deficient mice. Physiol Genomics 2022; 54:417-432. [PMID: 36062884 PMCID: PMC9639773 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00104.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation is important in skeletal muscle development, growth, regeneration, and contractile function. Alterations in the skeletal muscle phosphoproteome due to aging have been reported in males; however, studies in females are lacking. We have demonstrated that estrogen deficiency decreases muscle force, which correlates with decreased myosin regulatory light chain phosphorylation. Thus, we questioned whether the decline of estrogen in females that occurs with aging might alter the skeletal muscle phosphoproteome. C57BL/6J female mice (6 mo) were randomly assigned to a sham-operated (Sham) or ovariectomy (Ovx) group to investigate the effects of estrogen deficiency on skeletal muscle protein phosphorylation in a resting, noncontracting condition. After 16 wk of estrogen deficiency, the tibialis anterior muscle was dissected and prepped for label-free nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry phosphoproteomic analysis. We identified 4,780 phosphopeptides in tibialis anterior muscles of ovariectomized (Ovx) and Sham-operated (Sham) control mice. Further analysis revealed 647 differentially regulated phosphopeptides (Benjamini-Hochberg adjusted P value < 0.05 and 1.5-fold change ratio) that corresponded to 130 proteins with 22 proteins differentially phosphorylated (3 unique to Ovx, 2 unique to Sham, 6 upregulated, and 11 downregulated). Differentially phosphorylated proteins associated with the sarcomere, cytoplasm, and metabolic and calcium signaling pathways were identified. Our work provides the first global phosphoproteomic analysis in females and how estrogen deficiency impacts the skeletal muscle phosphoproteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina P Peyton
- Division of Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Department of Computer Science, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Tzu-Yi Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - LeeAnn Higgins
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Todd W Markowski
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Cha Vue
- Division of Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Laurie L Parker
- Department of Computer Science, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Division of Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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9
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Yusifov A, Woulfe KC, Bruns DR. Mechanisms and implications of sex differences in cardiac aging. THE JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR AGING 2022; 2:20. [PMID: 35419571 PMCID: PMC9004711 DOI: 10.20517/jca.2022.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Aging promotes structural and functional remodeling of the heart, even in the absence of external factors. There is growing clinical and experimental evidence supporting the existence of sex-specific patterns of cardiac aging, and in some cases, these sex differences emerge early in life. Despite efforts to identify sex-specific differences in cardiac aging, understanding how these differences are established and regulated remains limited. In addition to contributing to sex differences in age-related heart disease, sex differences also appear to underlie differential responses to cardiac stress such as adrenergic activation. Identifying the underlying mechanisms of sex-specific differences may facilitate the characterization of underlying heart disease phenotypes, with the ultimate goal of utilizing sex-specific therapeutic approaches for cardiac disease. The purpose of this review is to discuss the mechanisms and implications of sex-specific cardiac aging, how these changes render the heart more susceptible to disease, and how we can target age- and sex-specific differences to advance therapies for both male and female patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aykhan Yusifov
- Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Kathleen C. Woulfe
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Danielle R. Bruns
- Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
- Wyoming WWAMI Medical Education, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
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10
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Adekunle AO, Adzika GK, Mprah R, Ndzie Noah ML, Adu-Amankwaah J, Rizvi R, Akhter N, Sun H. Predominance of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction in Postmenopausal Women: Intra- and Extra-Cardiomyocyte Maladaptive Alterations Scaffolded by Estrogen Deficiency. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:685996. [PMID: 34660569 PMCID: PMC8511782 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.685996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) remains a public health concern as it is associated with high morbidity and death rates. In particular, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) represents the dominant (>50%) form of HF and mostly occurring among postmenopausal women. Hence, the initiation and progression of the left ventricular diastolic dysfunctions (LVDD) (a typically clinical manifestation of HFpEF) in postmenopausal women have been attributed to estrogen deficiency and the loss of its residue cardioprotective effects. In this review, from a pathophysiological and immunological standpoint, we discuss the probable multiple pathomechanisms resulting in HFpEF, which are facilitated by estrogen deficiency. The initial discussions recap estrogen and estrogen receptors (ERs) and β-adrenergic receptors (βARs) signaling under physiological/pathological states to facilitate cardiac function/dysfunction, respectively. By reconciling these prior discussions, attempts were made to explain how the loss of estrogen facilitates the disruptions both ERs and βARs-mediated signaling responsible for; the modulation of intra-cardiomyocyte calcium homeostasis, maintenance of cardiomyocyte cytoskeletal and extracellular matrix, the adaptive regulation of coronary microvascular endothelial functions and myocardial inflammatory responses. By scaffolding the disruption of these crucial intra- and extra-cardiomyocyte physiological functions, estrogen deficiency has been demonstrated to cause LVDD and increase the incidence of HFpEF in postmenopausal women. Finally, updates on the advancements in treatment interventions for the prevention of HFpEF were highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Richard Mprah
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | | | | | | | - Nazma Akhter
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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11
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Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ. A role for estrogen in skin ageing and dermal biomechanics. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 197:111513. [PMID: 34044023 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the body's primary defence against the external environment, preventing infection and desiccation. Therefore, alterations to skin homeostasis, for example with skin ageing, increase susceptibility to skin disease and injury. Skin biological ageing is uniquely influenced by a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic (primarily photoageing) factors, with differential effects on skin structure and function. Interestingly, skin architecture rapidly changes following the menopause, as a direct result of reduced circulating 17β-estradiol. The traditional clinical benefit of estrogens are supported by recent experimental data, where 17β-estradiol supplementation prevents age-related decline in the skin's structural and mechanical properties. However, the off-target effects of 17β-estradiol continue to challenge therapeutic application. Here we discuss how ageing alters the physiological and structural properties of the dermal extracellular matrix, and explore how estrogen receptor-targeted therapies may restore the mechanical defects associated with skin ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly N Wilkinson
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J Hardman
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom.
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12
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Gurrala R, Kilanowski-Doroh IM, Hutson DD, Ogola BO, Zimmerman MA, Katakam PVG, Satou R, Mostany R, Lindsey SH. Alterations in the estrogen receptor profile of cardiovascular tissues during aging. GeroScience 2021; 43:433-442. [PMID: 33558965 PMCID: PMC8050209 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00331-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen exerts protective effects on the cardiovascular system via three known estrogen receptors: alpha (ERα), beta (ERß), and the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). Our laboratory has previously showed the importance of GPER in the beneficial cardiovascular effects of estrogen. Since clinical studies indicate that the protective effects of exogenous estrogen on cardiovascular function are attenuated or reversed 10 years post-menopause, the hypothesis was that GPER expression may be reduced during aging. Vascular reactivity and GPER protein expression were assessed in female mice of varying ages. Physiological parameters, blood pressure, and estrogen receptor transcripts via droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) were assessed in the heart, kidney, and aorta of adult, middle-aged, and aged male and female C57BL/6 mice. Vasodilation to estrogen (E2) and the GPER agonist G-1 were reduced in aging female mice and were accompanied by downregulation of GPER protein. However, ERα and GPER were the predominant receptors in all tissues, whereas ERß was detectable only in the kidney. Female sex was associated with higher mRNA for both ERα and GPER in both the aorta and the heart. Aging impacted receptor transcript in a tissue-dependent manner. ERα transcript decreased in the heart with aging, while GPER expression increased in the heart. These data indicate that aging impacts estrogen receptor expression in the cardiovascular system in a tissue- and sex-specific manner. Understanding the impact of aging on estrogen receptor expression is critical for developing selective hormone therapies that protect from cardiovascular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Gurrala
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | | | - Dillion D Hutson
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Benard O Ogola
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Margaret A Zimmerman
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Prasad V G Katakam
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Ryousuke Satou
- Department of Physiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
- Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 7011, USA
| | - Ricardo Mostany
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
- Department of Physiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
- Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 7011, USA.
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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13
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Differing effects of estrogen deficiency on the contractile function of atrial and ventricular myocardium. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 541:30-35. [PMID: 33461065 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.12.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen deficiency has a significant influence on the excitation-contraction coupling in the ventricular myocardium but its impact on the atrial contractile function has not been studied. We have compared the effects of estrogen deficiency on the contractility and cytosolic Ca2+ transient of single cardiomyocytes isolated from the left atrium (LA) and the left ventricle (LV) of rats subjected to ovariectomy (OVX) or sham surgery (Sham). The characteristics of actin-myosin interaction were studied in an in vitro motility assay. We found that OVX decreased the contractility of LV single cardiomyocytes but increased that of LA myocytes. The disturbance of ventricular mechanical function may be explained by the acceleration of Ca2+ transient and reduced Ca2+ sensitivity of the actin-myosin interaction. The augmentation of LA contractility may be explained by accelerated cross-bridge kinetics and increased end-diastolic sarcomere length, which may lead to elevated tension in atrial cells due to the Frank-Starling mechanism.
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14
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Firth JM, Yang HY, Francis AJ, Islam N, MacLeod KT. The Effect of Estrogen on Intracellular Ca 2+ and Na + Regulation in Heart Failure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 5:901-912. [PMID: 33015413 PMCID: PMC7524784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2020.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
During the progression toward heart failure, indicators of in vivo whole-heart function suggest greater impairment in the absence of estrogen. At the single cardiac myocyte level, the absence of estrogen results in further reduction of Ca2+ transient amplitudes, further slowing of transient decay kinetics, less SR Ca2+ content, and a further increase in Ca2+ spark frequencies and spark-mediated SR leak compared with animals with normal estrus cycles. Cardiac myocyte Na+ regulation is also more disrupted in the absence of estrogen.
Contradictory findings of estrogen supplementation in cardiac disease highlight the need to investigate the involvement of estrogen in the progression of heart failure in an animal model that lacks traditional comorbidities. Heart failure was induced by aortic constriction (AC) in female guinea pigs. Selected AC animals were ovariectomized (ACOV), and a group of these received 17β-estradiol supplementation (ACOV+E). One hundred-fifty days post-AC surgery, left-ventricular myocytes were isolated, and their electrophysiology and Ca2+ and Na+ regulation were examined. Long-term absence of ovarian hormones exacerbates the decline in cardiac function during the progression to heart failure. Estrogen supplementation reverses these aggravating effects.
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Key Words
- AC, aortic constriction
- ACOV+E, aortic constriction with ovariectomy, supplemented with 17β-estradiol
- ACOV, aortic constriction with ovariectomy
- FS, fractional shortening
- ICa, l-type Ca2+ channel current (cadmium-sensitive)
- INa,L, late Na+ current (ranolazine-sensitive)
- NCX, Na+/Ca2+ exchange
- OV, ovariectomy
- SERCA, Sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase
- SR, sarcoplasmic reticulum
- calcium regulation
- cardiomyocytes
- estrogen
- excitation-contraction coupling
- female
- heart failure
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahn M Firth
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hsiang-Yu Yang
- Cardiovascular Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Alice J Francis
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Najah Islam
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth T MacLeod
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Age, Sex and Overall Health, Measured As Frailty, Modify Myofilament Proteins in Hearts From Naturally Aging Mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10052. [PMID: 32572088 PMCID: PMC7308399 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66903-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated effects of age, sex and frailty on contractions, calcium transients and myofilament proteins to determine if maladaptive changes associated with aging were sex-specific and modified by frailty. Ventricular myocytes and myofilaments were isolated from middle-aged (~12 mos) and older (~24 mos) mice. Frailty was assessed with a non-invasive frailty index. Calcium transients declined and slowed with age in both sexes, but contractions were largely unaffected. Actomyosin Mg-ATPase activity increased with age in females but not males; this could maintain contractions with smaller calcium transients in females. Phosphorylation of myosin-binding protein C (MyBP-C), desmin, tropomyosin and myosin light chain-1 (MLC-1) increased with age in males, but only MyBP-C and troponin-T increased in females. Enhanced phosphorylation of MyBP-C and MLC-1 could preserve contractions in aging. Interestingly, the age-related decline in Hill coefficients (r = −0.816; p = 0.002) and increase in phosphorylation of desmin (r = 0.735; p = 0.010), tropomyosin (r = 0.779; p = 0.005) and MLC-1 (r = 0.817; p = 0.022) were graded by the level of frailty in males but not females. In these ways, cardiac remodeling at cellular and subcellular levels is graded by overall health in aging males. Such changes may contribute to heart diseases in frail older males, whereas females may be resistant to these effects of frailty.
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16
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Jiao L, Machuki JO, Wu Q, Shi M, Fu L, Adekunle AO, Tao X, Xu C, Hu X, Yin Z, Sun H. Estrogen and calcium handling proteins: new discoveries and mechanisms in cardiovascular diseases. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 318:H820-H829. [PMID: 32083972 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00734.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen deficiency is considered to be an important factor leading to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Indeed, the prevalence of CVDs in postmenopausal women exceeds that of premenopausal women and men of the same age. Recent research findings provide evidence that estrogen plays a pivotal role in the regulation of calcium homeostasis and therefore fine-tunes normal cardiomyocyte contraction and relaxation processes. Disruption of calcium homeostasis is closely associated with the pathological mechanism of CVDs. Thus, this paper maps out and summarizes the effects and mechanisms of estrogen on calcium handling proteins in cardiac myocytes, including L-type Ca2+ channel, the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release channel named ryanodine receptor, sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase, and sodium-calcium exchanger. In so doing, we provide theoretical and experimental evidence for the successful design of estrogen-based prevention and treatment therapies for CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Jiao
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Qi Wu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingjin Shi
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu Fu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Xi Tao
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenxi Xu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xide Hu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zeyuan Yin
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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17
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Fernandes RD, Hall A, Ferguson M, Lorenzen‐Schmidt I, Balasubramaniam V, Pyle WG. Cardiac changes during the peri-menopausal period in a VCD-induced murine model of ovarian failure. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 227:e13290. [PMID: 31050200 PMCID: PMC7379283 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is lower in pre-menopausal females vs age matched males. After menopause risk equals or exceeds that of males. CVD protection of pre-menopausal females is ascribed to high circulating oestrogen levels. Despite experimental evidence that oestrogen are cardioprotective, oestrogen replacement therapy trials have not shown clear benefits. One hypothesis to explain the discrepancy proposed hearts remodel during peri-menopause. Peri-menopasual myocardial changes have never been investigated, nor has the ability of oestrogen to regulate heart function during peri-menopause. METHODS We injected female mice with 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD, 160 mg/kg/d IP) to cause gradual ovarian failure over 120d and act as a peri-menopausal model RESULTS: Left ventricular function assessed by Langendorff perfusion found no changes in VCD-injected mice at 60 or 120 days compared to intact mice. Cardiac myofilament activity was altered at 60 and 120 days indicating a molecular remodelling in peri-menopause. Myocardial TGF-β1 increased at 60 days post-VCD treatment along with reduced Akt phosphorylation. Acute activation of oestrogen receptor-α (ERα) or -β (ERβ) depressed left ventricular contractility in hearts from intact mice. ER-regulation of myocardial and myofilament function, and myofilament phosphorylation, were disrupted in the peri-menopausal model. Disruption occurred without alterations in total ERα or ERβ expression. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to demonstrate remodelling of the heart in a model of peri-menopause, along with a disruption in ER-dependent regulation of the heart. These data indicate that oestrogen replacement therapy initiated after menopause affects a heart that is profoundly different from that found in reproductively intact animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandra Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | - Melissa Ferguson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | | | | | - W. Glen Pyle
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
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18
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Machuki JO, Zhang HY, Geng J, Fu L, Adzika GK, Wu L, Shang W, Wu J, Kexue L, Zhao Z, Sun H. Estrogen regulation of cardiac cAMP-L-type Ca 2+ channel pathway modulates sex differences in basal contraction and responses to β 2AR-mediated stress in left ventricular apical myocytes. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:34. [PMID: 30987657 PMCID: PMC6466778 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0346-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds/Aim Male and female hearts have many structural and functional differences. Here, we investigated the role of estrogen (E2) in the mechanisms of sex differences in contraction through the cAMP-L-type Ca2+channel pathway in adult mice left ventricular (LV) apical myocytes at basal and stress state. Methods Isolated LV apical myocytes from male, female (Sham) and ovariectomised mice (OVX) were used to investigate contractility, Ca2+ transients and L-type Ca2+ channel (LTCC) function. The levels of β2AR, intracellular cAMP, phosphodiesterase (PDE 3 and PDE 4), RyR2, PLB, SLN, and SERCA2a were compared among the experimental groups. Results We found that (1) intracellular cAMP, ICaL density, contraction and Ca2+ transient amplitudes were larger in Sham and OVX + E2 myocytes compared to male and OVX. (2) The mRNA expression of PDE 3 and 4 were lower in Sham and OVX + E2 groups compared with male and OVX groups. Treatment of myocytes with IBMX (100 μM) increased contraction and Ca2+ transient amplitude in both sexes and canceled differences between them. (3) β2AR-mediated stress decreased cAMP concentration and peak contraction and Ca2+ transient amplitude only in male and OVX groups but not in Sham or OVX + E2 groups suggesting a cardioprotective role of E2 in female mice. (4) Pretreatment of OVX myocytes with GPR30 antagonist G15 (100 nM) abolished the effects of E2, but ERα and ERβ antagonist ICI 182,780 (1 μM) did not. Moreover, activation of GPR30 with G1 (100 nM) replicated the effects of E2 on cAMP, contraction and Ca2+ transient amplitudes suggesting that the acute effects of E2 were mediated by GPR30 via non-genomic signaling. (5) mRNA expression of RyR2 was higher in myocytes from Sham than those of male while PLB and SLN were higher in male than Sham but no sex differences were observed in the mRNA of SERCA2a. Conclusion Collectively, these results demonstrate that E2 modulates the expression of genes related to the cAMP-LTCC pathway and contributes to sex differences in cardiac contraction and responses to stress. We also show that estrogen confers cardioprotection against cardiac stress by non-genomic acute signaling via GPR30.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hong-Yuan Zhang
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Juan Geng
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Lu Fu
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gabriel Komla Adzika
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lijuan Wu
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Wenkang Shang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Jinxia Wu
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Kexue
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
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19
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Zügel M, Wehrstein F, Qiu S, Diel P, Steinacker JM, Schumann U. Moderate intensity continuous training reverses the detrimental effects of ovariectomy on RyR1 phosphorylation in rat skeletal muscle. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 481:1-7. [PMID: 30465874 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.11.003] [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: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
High 17β-Estradiol (E2) concentrations in isolated ventricular myocytes as well as a lack of ovarian hormones in cardiac muscle of ovariectomized (OVX) rodents has been shown to lead to arrhythmogenic effects by inducing post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release channel ryanodine receptor-2 (RyR2). The effects of estrogens on the phosphorylation status of the RyR1 in skeletal muscle have not been investigated before. Furthermore, while high intensity exercise has been shown to increase RyR phosphorylation, there is no data on the effects of moderate intensity continuous training (MICT). The aims of the study were to investigate the effects of a 3-day treatment with low (1 nM, moderate (5 nM) and high (10 nM, 100 nM) E2 concentrations on RyR1 mRNA and protein expression and phosphorylation status (pRyRSer2844) in cultured C2C12 myotubes and to study the effects of OVX on RyR1 expression and phosphorylation in rat skeletal muscle in combination with 3 weeks of MICT. Treatment with low, physiological E2 concentrations reduced dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR) and RyR1 mRNA content in C2C12 myotubes compared to untreated control cells, whereas RyR1 protein phosphorylation (pRyRSer2844) was significantly increased after treatment with high, non-physiological E2 concentrations (p ≤ 0.05). RyR1 protein content (p ≤ 0.05) and pRyRSer2844 (p ≤ 0.05) were significantly elevated in skeletal muscle of OVX vs. sham-operated rats. Importantly, pRyRSer2844 levels were similar to sham-operated controls in OVX rats after MICT (OVX vs. OVX + MICT, p ≤ 0.05). Our results indicate, that one of the actions of estrogens is to alter skeletal muscle Ca2+ homeostasis by modulating the expression and phosphorylation of the RyR1 in skeletal muscle. Notably, regular MICT was able to counteract RyR1 phosphorylation in skeletal muscle of OVX rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Zügel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Sports Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
| | - F Wehrstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Sports Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - S Qiu
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital, Institute of Diabetes, Nanjing, China
| | - P Diel
- Department of Sports Medicine, Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, German Sports University Cologne, Germany
| | - J M Steinacker
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Sports Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - U Schumann
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Sports Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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20
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Mahmoodzadeh S, Dworatzek E. The Role of 17β-Estradiol and Estrogen Receptors in Regulation of Ca 2+ Channels and Mitochondrial Function in Cardiomyocytes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:310. [PMID: 31156557 PMCID: PMC6529529 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous epidemiological, clinical, and animal studies showed that cardiac function and manifestation of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are different between males and females. The underlying reasons for these sex differences are definitely multifactorial, but major evidence points to a causal role of the sex steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) and its receptors (ER) in the physiology and pathophysiology of the heart. Interestingly, it has been shown that cardiac calcium (Ca2+) ion channels and mitochondrial function are regulated in a sex-specific manner. Accurate mitochondrial function and Ca2+ signaling are of utmost importance for adequate heart function and crucial to maintaining the cardiovascular health. Due to the highly sensitive nature of these processes in the heart, this review article highlights the current knowledge regarding sex dimorphisms in the heart implicating the importance of E2 and ERs in the regulation of cardiac mitochondrial function and Ca2+ ion channels, thus the contractility. In particular, we provide an overview of in-vitro and in-vivo studies using either E2 deficiency; ER deficiency or selective ER activation, which suggest that E2 and ERs are strongly involved in these processes. In this context, this review also discusses the divergent E2-responses resulting from the activation of different ER subtypes in these processes. Detailed understanding of the E2 and ER-mediated molecular and cellular mechanisms in the heart under physiological and pathological conditions may help to design more specifically targeted drugs for the management of CVDs in men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokoufeh Mahmoodzadeh
- Department of Molecular Muscle Physiology, Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Shokoufeh Mahmoodzadeh
| | - Elke Dworatzek
- Department of Molecular Muscle Physiology, Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Gender in Medicine, Charité Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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21
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Groban L, Tran QK, Ferrario CM, Sun X, Cheng CP, Kitzman DW, Wang H, Lindsey SH. Female Heart Health: Is GPER the Missing Link? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:919. [PMID: 31993020 PMCID: PMC6970950 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) is a novel membrane-bound receptor that mediates non-genomic actions of the primary female sex hormone 17β-estradiol. Studies over the past two decades have elucidated the beneficial actions of this receptor in a number of cardiometabolic diseases. This review will focus specifically on the cardiac actions of GPER, since this receptor is expressed in cardiomyocytes as well as other cells within the heart and most likely contributes to estrogen-induced cardioprotection. Studies outlining the impact of GPER on diastolic function, mitochondrial function, left ventricular stiffness, calcium dynamics, cardiac inflammation, and aortic distensibility are discussed. In addition, recent data using genetic mouse models with global or cardiomyocyte-specific GPER gene deletion are highlighted. Since estrogen loss due to menopause in combination with chronological aging contributes to unique aspects of cardiac dysfunction in women, this receptor may provide novel therapeutic effects. While clinical studies are still required to fully understand the potential for pharmacological targeting of this receptor in postmenopausal women, this review will summarize the evidence gathered thus far on its likely beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Groban
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine-Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Leanne Groban
| | - Quang-Kim Tran
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines, IA, United States
| | - Carlos M. Ferrario
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- Department of Physiology-Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Xuming Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Che Ping Cheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine Section, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Dalane W. Kitzman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine Section, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine-Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Sarah H. Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
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22
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Machuki J, Zhang H, Harding S, Sun H. Molecular pathways of oestrogen receptors and β-adrenergic receptors in cardiac cells: Recognition of their similarities, interactions and therapeutic value. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2018; 222. [PMID: 28994249 PMCID: PMC5813217 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogen receptors (ERs) and β-adrenergic receptors (βARs) play important roles in the cardiovascular system. Moreover, these receptors are expressed in cardiac myocytes and vascular tissues. Numerous experimental observations support the hypothesis that similarities and interactions exist between the signalling pathways of ERs (ERα, ERβ and GPR30) and βARs (β1 AR, β2 AR and β3 AR). The recently discovered oestrogen receptor GPR30 shares structural features with the βARs, and this forms the basis for the interactions and functional overlap. GPR30 possesses protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylation sites and PDZ binding motifs and interacts with A-kinase anchoring protein 5 (AKAP5), all of which enable its interaction with the βAR pathways. The interactions between ERs and βARs occur downstream of the G-protein-coupled receptor, through the Gαs and Gαi proteins. This review presents an up-to-date description of ERs and βARs and demonstrates functional synergism and interactions among these receptors in cardiac cells. We explore their signalling cascades and the mechanisms that orchestrate their interactions and propose new perspectives on the signalling patterns for the GPR30 based on its structural resemblance to the βARs. In addition, we explore the relevance of these interactions to cell physiology, drugs (especially β-blockers and calcium channel blockers) and cardioprotection. Furthermore, a receptor-independent mechanism for oestrogen and its influence on the expression of βARs and calcium-handling proteins are discussed. Finally, we highlight promising therapeutic avenues that can be derived from the shared pathways, especially the phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K/Akt) pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.O. Machuki
- Department of Physiology; Xuzhou Medical University; Xuzhou China
| | - H.Y. Zhang
- Department of Physiology; Xuzhou Medical University; Xuzhou China
| | - S.E. Harding
- National Heart and Lung Institute; Imperial College; London UK
| | - H. Sun
- Department of Physiology; Xuzhou Medical University; Xuzhou China
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Yang HY, Firth JM, Francis AJ, Alvarez-Laviada A, MacLeod KT. Effect of ovariectomy on intracellular Ca 2+ regulation in guinea pig cardiomyocytes. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2017; 313:H1031-H1043. [PMID: 28778911 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00249.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
This study addressed the hypothesis that long-term deficiency of ovarian hormones after ovariectomy (OVx) alters cellular Ca2+-handling mechanisms in the heart, resulting in the formation of a proarrhythmic substrate. It also tested whether estrogen supplementation to OVx animals reverses any alterations to cardiac Ca2+ handling and rescues proarrhythmic behavior. OVx or sham operations were performed on female guinea pigs using appropriate anesthetic and analgesic regimes. Pellets containing 17β-estradiol (1 mg, 60-day release) were placed subcutaneously in selected OVx animals (OVx + E). Cardiac myocytes were enzymatically isolated, and electrophysiological measurements were conducted with a switch-clamp system. In fluo-4-loaded cells, Ca2+ transients were 20% larger, and fractional sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release was 7% greater in the OVx group compared with the sham group. Peak L-type Ca2+ current was 16% larger in OVx myocytes with channel inactivation shifting to more positive membrane potentials, creating a larger "window" current. SR Ca2+ stores were 22% greater in the OVx group, and these cells showed a higher frequency of Ca2+ sparks and waves and shorter wave-free intervals. OVx myocytes showed higher frequencies of early afterdepolarizations, and a greater percentage of these cells showed delayed afterdepolarizations after exposure to isoprenaline compared with sham myocytes. The altered Ca2+ regulation occurring in the OVx group was not observed in the OVx + E group. These findings suggest that long-term deprivation of ovarian hormones in guinea pigs lead to changes in myocyte Ca2+-handling mechanisms that are considered proarrhythmogenic. 17β-Estradiol replacement prevented these adverse effects.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Ovariectomized guinea pig cardiomyocytes have higher frequencies of Ca2+ waves, and isoprenaline-challenged cells display more early afterdepolarizations, delayed afterdepolarizations, and extra beats compared with sham myocytes. These alterations to Ca2+ regulation were not observed in myocytes from ovariectomized guinea pigs supplemented with 17β-estradiol, suggesting that ovarian hormone deficiency modifies cardiac Ca2+ regulation, potentially creating proarrhythmic substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiang-Yu Yang
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; and.,Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defence Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jahn M Firth
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Alice J Francis
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Anita Alvarez-Laviada
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Kenneth T MacLeod
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; and
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Depressed calcium cycling contributes to lower ischemia tolerance in hearts of estrogen-deficient rats. Menopause 2016; 22:773-82. [PMID: 25513985 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Estrogens enhance ischemia tolerance (IT) in the myocardium, the mechanism of which remains unclear. We investigated the effects of long-term estrogen deprivation on the intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)(i)) transient of the heart and its possible influence on IT. METHODS Hearts of ovariectomized (OVX) and sham-operated (control) adult female rats (some receiving estrogen therapy) were studied 10 weeks after surgical operation: control (n = 8), OVX (n = 10), sham-operated estrogen-substituted (n = 7), and ovariectomized estrogen-substituted (n = 9). In vivo heart function was assessed by echocardiography, whereas Ca(2+)(i) transients were recorded, concomitantly with left ventricular pressure and coronary flow, by Indo-1 surface fluorometry in isolated Langendorff-perfused hearts. Isolated hearts were subjected to a 30-minute global ischemia-30-minute reperfusion protocol. Left ventricular expression of myocardial sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA2a), phospholamban (PLB), and Ser16-phosphorylated PLB was measured. RESULTS Ovariectomy did not influence resting cardiac function in vivo or ex vivo. However, Ca(2+) removal was slower. During ischemia, Ca(2+)(i) elevation and ischemic contracture were more pronounced after ovariectomy. Postischemic restitution of inotropic function (developed pressure; +dP/dt(max)) and lusitropic function (-dP/dt(max)) and Ca(2+)(i) transient recovery (amplitude; ±dCa(2+)(i)/dt(max)) were decreased in OVX hearts. Sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase expression was unaltered, whereas PLB and Ser16-phosphorylated PLB levels were higher after ovariectomy. All effects of ovariectomy were restored by estrogen therapy. CONCLUSIONS Ovariectomy impairs myocardial Ca(2+) removal by increasing the expression of the SERCA2a inhibitor PLB. Defective Ca(2+) transport causes ischemic Ca(2+)(i) overload and insufficient postischemic recovery of Ca(2+)(i) transients, which entail depressed hemodynamic restitution. Protection of intact Ca(2+) cycling in the myocardium by estrogens plays a major role in enhancing IT.
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Fischer TH, Herting J, Eiringhaus J, Pabel S, Hartmann NH, Ellenberger D, Friedrich M, Renner A, Gummert J, Maier LS, Zabel M, Hasenfuss G, Sossalla S. Sex-dependent alterations of Ca2+ cycling in human cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Europace 2015; 18:1440-8. [PMID: 26493982 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euv313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Clinical studies have shown differences in the propensity for malignant ventricular arrhythmias between women and men suffering from cardiomyopathies and heart failure (HF). This is clinically relevant as it impacts therapies like prophylactic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation but the pathomechanisms are unknown. As an increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) leak is arrhythmogenic, it could represent a cellular basis for this paradox. METHODS/RESULTS We evaluated the SR Ca(2+) leak with respect to sex differences in (i) afterload-induced cardiac hypertrophy (Hy) with preserved left ventricular (LV) function and (ii) end-stage HF. Cardiac function did not differ between sexes in both cardiac pathologies. Human cardiomyocytes isolated from female patients with Hy showed a significantly lower Ca(2+) spark frequency (CaSpF, confocal microscopy, Fluo3-AM) compared with men (P < 0.05). As Ca(2+) spark width and duration were similar in women and men, this difference in CaSpF did not yet translate into a significant difference of the calculated SR Ca(2+) leak between both sexes at this stage of disease (P = 0.14). Epifluorescence measurements (Fura2-AM) revealed comparable Ca(2+) cycling properties (diastolic Ca(2+) levels, amplitude of systolic Ca(2+) transients, SR Ca(2+) load) in patients of both sexes suffering from Hy. Additionally, the increased diastolic CaSpF in male patients with Hy did not yet translate into an elevated ratio of cells showing arrhythmic events (Ca(2+) waves, spontaneous Ca(2+) transients) (P = 0.77). In the transition to HF, both sexes showed an increase of the CaSpF (P < 0.05) and the sex dependence was even more pronounced. Female patients had a 69 ± 10% lower SR Ca(2+) leak (P < 0.05), which now even translated into a lower ratio of arrhythmic cells in female HF patients compared with men (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION These data show that the SR Ca(2+) leak is lower in women than in men with comparable cardiac impairment. Since the SR Ca(2+) leak triggers delayed afterdepolarizations, our findings may explain why women are less prone to ventricular arrhythmias and confirm the rationale of therapeutic measures reducing the SR Ca(2+) leak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Fischer
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jonas Herting
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jörg Eiringhaus
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Pabel
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nico H Hartmann
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Ellenberger
- Institut für Medizinische Statistik, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Martin Friedrich
- Abt. Thorax-, Herz- und Gefäßchirurgie, Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - André Renner
- Abt. Thorax-, Herz-, Gefäßchirurgie, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrheinwestfalen, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Jan Gummert
- Abt. Thorax-, Herz-, Gefäßchirurgie, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrheinwestfalen, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Lars S Maier
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Markus Zabel
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK), Standort Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gerd Hasenfuss
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK), Standort Göttingen, Germany
| | - Samuel Sossalla
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie/Herzzentrum, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK), Standort Göttingen, Germany
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El Gebeily G, El Khoury N, Mathieu S, Brouillette J, Fiset C. Estrogen regulation of the transient outward K(+) current involves estrogen receptor α in mouse heart. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2015. [PMID: 26205295 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2015.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE We have previously shown that androgens upregulate cardiac K(+) channels and shorten repolarization. However, the effects that estrogens (E2) and estrogen receptors (ER) might have on the various repolarizing K(+) currents and underlying ion channels remain incompletely understood. Accordingly, our objective was to verify whether and how E2 and its ERs subtypes influence these K(+) currents. METHODS AND RESULTS In order to examine the influence of E2 and ERs on K(+) currents we drastically lowered the E2 level through ovariectomy (OVX; 74% reduction vs CTL) and in parallel, we used female mice lacking either ERα (ERαKO) or ERβ (ERβKO). In OVX mice, results showed a specific increase of 35% in the density of the Ca(2+)-independent transient outward K(+) current (Ito) compared to CTL. Western blots showed increase in Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 sarcolemmal protein expression while qPCR revealed higher mRNA expression of only Kv4.3 in OVX mice. This upregulation of Ito was correlated with a shorter ventricular action potential duration and QTc interval. In ERαKO but not ERβKO mice, the mRNA of Kv4.3 was selectively increased. Furthermore, when ventricular myocytes obtained from ERαKO and ERβKO were cultured in the presence of E2, results showed that E2 reduced Ito density only in ERβKO myocytes confirming the repressive role of E2-ERα in regulating Ito. CONCLUSION Altogether, these results suggest that E2 negatively regulates the density of Ito through ERα, this highlights a potential role for this female hormone and its α-subtype receptor in modulating cardiac electrical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracia El Gebeily
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Bélanger, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Nabil El Khoury
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Bélanger, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Sophie Mathieu
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Bélanger, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Judith Brouillette
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Bélanger, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Céline Fiset
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Bélanger, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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MacDonald JK, Pyle WG, Reitz CJ, Howlett SE. Cardiac contraction, calcium transients, and myofilament calcium sensitivity fluctuate with the estrous cycle in young adult female mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 306:H938-53. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00730.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This study established conditions to induce regular estrous cycles in female C57BL/6J mice and investigated the impact of the estrous cycle on contractions, Ca2+ transients, and underlying cardiac excitation-contraction (EC)-coupling mechanisms. Daily vaginal smears from group-housed virgin female mice were stained to distinguish estrous stage (proestrus, estrus, metestrus, diestrus). Ventricular myocytes were isolated from anesthetized mice. Contractions and Ca2+ transients were measured simultaneously (4 Hz, 37°C). Interestingly, mice did not exhibit regular cycles unless they were exposed to male pheromones in bedding added to their cages. Field-stimulated myocytes from mice in estrus had larger contractions (∼2-fold increase), larger Ca2+ transients (∼1.11-fold increase), and longer action potentials (>2-fold increase) compared with other stages. Larger contractions and Ca2+ transients were not observed in estrus myocytes voltage-clamped with shorter action potentials. Voltage-clamp experiments also demonstrated that estrous stage had no effect on Ca2+ current, EC-coupling gain, diastolic Ca2+, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ content, or fractional release. Although contractions were largest in estrus, myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity was lowest (EC50 values ∼1.15-fold higher) in conjunction with increased phosphorylation of myosin binding protein C in estrus. Contractions were enhanced in ventricular myocytes from mice in estrus because action potential prolongation increased SR Ca2+ release. These findings demonstrate that cyclical changes in reproductive hormones associated with the estrous cycle can influence myocardial electrical and contractile function and modify Ca2+ homeostasis. However, such changes are unlikely to occur in female mice housed in groups under conventional conditions, since these mice do not exhibit regular estrous cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - W. Glen Pyle
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada; and
| | - Cristine J. Reitz
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada; and
| | - Susan E. Howlett
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Geriatric Medicine), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Zanni PC, Negri M, Salci TP, Bonfim-Mendonça PDS, Kioshima ES, Svidzinski TI, Consolaro ME. Animal models for the effective development of atrophic vaginitis therapies: possibilities and limitations. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2014; 9:269-81. [PMID: 24397873 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2014.877883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vaginal atrophy (VA) is an inflammation of the vagina that develops when there is a significant decrease in levels of the estrogen. Prolonged periods of hypoestrogenism may induce severe VA and treatment is essential. This is a significant problem which requires more focused attention for the development of existing and future therapies. AREAS COVERED This review evaluates the suitable animal models of VA, including: mice, rodents and non-human primates. It focuses particularly on the possibilities and limitations of these in vivo models for the effective development of VA therapies. EXPERT OPINION Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been prescribed and successfully used for VA. However, some studies have shown that HRT may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, coronary heart diseases and others risks. Thus, there is a growing interest in effective and safe alternatives to VA symptoms. There are, however, a number of things that must be considered for future drug discovery efforts. One major consideration is what animal model should be used and whether the model is appropriate for the study aim. Similarly, research studies must also consider the influencing factors on these animal models, so that these models can effectively mimic the actual disease. The authors also highlight the need to standardize research parameters to produce more reliable and reproducible data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Cmd Zanni
- State University of Maringá, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine , Maringá , Brazil
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