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Schiffer L, Arlt W, Storbeck KH. 5α-reduction of epitestosterone is catalysed by human SRD5A1 and SRD5A2 and increases androgen receptor transactivation. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 241:106516. [PMID: 38582131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Epitestosterone is a stereoisomer of the active androgen testosterone and its circulating concentrations are similar to those of testosterone in women and children. However, its biological function and pathways of metabolism remain unknown. The structural similarity to testosterone suggests a potential function in the modulation of androgen receptor signalling. It is well established that the conversion of testosterone to 5α-dihydrotestosterone enhances local androgen receptor signalling. In this study, we show that epitestosterone is metabolized to 5α-dihydroepitestosterone by both human steroid 5α-reductase isoforms, SRD5A1 and SRD5A2. Using two different variations of a reporter assay for transactivation of the human androgen receptor, we show that epitestosterone is a partial AR agonist and that the 5α-reduction of epitestosterone increases its androgenic activity. In line with this, we show that 5α-reduction of epitestosterone reduces its ability to antagonize 5α-dihydrotestosterone-induced androgen receptor transactivation. In conclusion, we provide evidence that steroid 5α-reductases regulate the modulatory effect of epitestosterone on androgen receptor signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Desai Sethi Urology Institute and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London W12 0HS, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London W12 0HS, UK; Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
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2
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Park CG, Adnan KM, Cho H, Ryu CS, Yoon J, Kim YJ. A combined in vitro-in silico method for assessing the androgenic activities of bisphenol A and its analogues. Toxicol In Vitro 2024; 98:105838. [PMID: 38710238 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2024.105838] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Interactions between endocrine-disruptor chemicals (EDCs) and androgen receptor (AR) have adverse effects on the endocrine system, leading to human reproductive dysfunction. Bisphenol A (BPA) is an EDC that can damage both the environment and human health. Although numerous BPA analogues have been produced as substitutes for BPA, few studies have evaluated their endocrine-disrupting abilities. We assessed the (anti)-androgenic activities of BPA and its analogues using a yeast-based reporter assay. The BPA analogues tested were bisphenol S (BPS), 4-phenylphenol (4PP), 4,4'-(9-fluorenyliden)-diphenol (BPFL), tetramethyl bisphenol F (TMBPF), and tetramethyl bisphenol A (TMBPA). We also conducted molecular docking and dynamics simulations to assess the interactions of BPA and its analogues with the ligand-binding domain of human AR (AR-LBD). Neither BPA nor its analogues had androgenic activity; however, all except BPFL exerted robust anti-androgenic effects. Consistent with the in vitro results, anti-androgenic analogues of BPA formed hydrogen bonding patterns with key residues that differed from the patterns of endogenous hormones, indicating that the analogues display in inappropriate orientations when interacting with the binding pocket of AR-LBD. Our findings indicate that BPA and its analogues disrupt androgen signaling by interacting with the AR-LBD. Overall, BPA and its analogues display endocrine-disrupting activity, which is mediated by AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Gyun Park
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany; Division of Experimental Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karim Md Adnan
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany; Universität des Saarlandes, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Hyunki Cho
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany; Universität des Saarlandes, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Chang Seon Ryu
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany
| | - Juyong Yoon
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany.
| | - Young Jun Kim
- Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrucken 66123, Germany.
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3
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Kango G, Malek R, Mannuel H, Hussain A. Targeting androgen biosynthesis in prostate cancer: implications on endocrine physiology. Curr Opin Oncol 2024; 36:195-201. [PMID: 38573209 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000001032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Targeting specific steroidogenic enzymes is effective in decreasing testosterone synthesis, resulting in significant antitumor effects in prostate cancer. Such treatments result in disruptions of complicated and intertwining pathways with systemic physiologic consequences via effects on the adrenal gland and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis. This review highlights some of these aspects that need to be taken into consideration when treating patients with androgen biosynthesis inhibitors. RECENT FINDINGS Targeting CYP17A1, a key enzyme involved in androgen biosynthesis, is a well established treatment in prostate cancer. More recently, efforts are underway to target a gatekeeper enzyme of steroidogenesis, CYP11A1. This enzyme mediates conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, the first step in steroid hormone biogenesis. Studies are beginning to demonstrate antitumor effects of ODM-208, a CYP11A1 inhibitor in prostate cancer. Although anticipated to have a therapeutic role in prostate cancer, there are potential downstream effects of CYP11A1 targeting arising from suppression of the entire adrenal cortex, including long-term adrenal insufficiency and possibly cardiovascular dysregulation. SUMMARY Agents targeting androgen biosynthesis can have systemic implications. Balancing management of prostate cancer with better understanding of the mechanisms associated with potential side effects will allow for patients to obtain improved antitumor benefit while mitigating against treatment-associated adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazal Kango
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Medicine University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Rana Malek
- Department of Medicine University of Maryland School of Medicine
- Division of Endocrinology
| | - Heather Mannuel
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Medicine University of Maryland School of Medicine
- Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Arif Hussain
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Medicine University of Maryland School of Medicine
- Department of Pathology
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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4
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Schiffer L, Oestlund I, Snoep JL, Gilligan LC, Taylor AE, Sinclair AJ, Singhal R, Freeman A, Ajjan R, Tiganescu A, Arlt W, Storbeck KH. Inhibition of the glucocorticoid-activating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 drives concurrent 11-oxygenated androgen excess. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23574. [PMID: 38551804 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302131r] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) is a key enzyme in the activation of both classic and 11-oxygenated androgens. In adipose tissue, AKR1C3 is co-expressed with 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1), which catalyzes not only the local activation of glucocorticoids but also the inactivation of 11-oxygenated androgens, and thus has the potential to counteract AKR1C3. Using a combination of in vitro assays and in silico modeling we show that HSD11B1 attenuates the biosynthesis of the potent 11-oxygenated androgen, 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), by AKR1C3. Employing ex vivo incubations of human female adipose tissue samples we show that inhibition of HSD11B1 results in the increased peripheral biosynthesis of 11KT. Moreover, circulating 11KT increased 2-3 fold in individuals with type 2 diabetes after receiving the selective oral HSD11B1 inhibitor AZD4017 for 35 days, thus confirming that HSD11B1 inhibition results in systemic increases in 11KT concentrations. Our findings show that HSD11B1 protects against excess 11KT production by adipose tissue, a finding of particular significance when considering the evidence for adverse metabolic effects of androgens in women. Therefore, when targeting glucocorticoid activation by HSD11B1 inhibitor treatment in women, the consequently increased generation of 11KT may offset beneficial effects of decreased glucocorticoid activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Imken Oestlund
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Jacky L Snoep
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lorna C Gilligan
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alexandra J Sinclair
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rishi Singhal
- Upper GI Unit and Minimally Invasive Unit, Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Adrian Freeman
- Emerging Innovations Unit, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ramzi Ajjan
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Center, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Ana Tiganescu
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Center, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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5
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Yazawa T, Imamichi Y, Sato T, Ida T, Umezawa A, Kitano T. Diversity of Androgens; Comparison of Their Significance and Characteristics in Vertebrate Species. Zoolog Sci 2024; 41:77-86. [PMID: 38587520 DOI: 10.2108/zs230064] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Androgen(s) is one of the sex steroids that are involved in many physiological phenomena of vertebrate species. Although androgens were originally identified as male sex hormones, it is well known now that they are also essential in females. As in the case of other steroid hormones, androgen is produced from cholesterol through serial enzymatic reactions. Although testis is a major tissue to produce androgens in all species, androgens are also produced in ovary and adrenal (interrenal tissue). Testosterone is the most common and famous androgen. It represents a major androgen both in males and females of almost vertebrate species. In addition, testosterone is a precursor for producing significant androgens such as11-ketotestosterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, 11-ketodihydrotestosterones and 15α-hydroxytestosterone in a species- or sex-dependent manner for their homeostasis. In this article, we will review the significance and characteristics of these androgens, following a description of the history of testosterone discovery and its synthetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yazawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Asahikawa Medical University, Hokkaido 078-8510, Japan,
| | - Yoshitaka Imamichi
- Faculty of Marine Science and Technology, Fukui Prefectural University, Fukui 917-0003, Japan,
| | - Takahiro Sato
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Sciences, Kurume University, Fukuoka 830-0011, Japan
| | - Takanori Ida
- Center for Animal Disease Control, Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Akihiro Umezawa
- National Center for Child Health and Development Research Institute, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kitano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
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6
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Buck SAJ, Meertens M, van Ooijen FMF, Oomen-de Hoop E, de Jonge E, Coenen MJH, Bergman AM, Koolen SLW, de Wit R, Huitema ADR, van Schaik RHN, Mathijssen RHJ. A common germline variant in CYP11B1 is associated with adverse clinical outcome of treatment with abiraterone or enzalutamide. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 169:115890. [PMID: 37988848 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115890] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Extragonadal androgens play a pivotal role in prostate cancer disease progression on androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSi), including abiraterone and enzalutamide. We aimed to investigate if germline variants in genes involved in extragonadal androgen synthesis contribute to resistance to ARSi and may predict clinical outcomes on ARSi. We included ARSi naive metastatic prostate cancer patients treated with abiraterone or enzalutamide and determined 18 germline variants in six genes involved in extragonadal androgen synthesis. Variants were tested in univariate and multivariable analysis for the relation with overall survival (OS) and time to progression (TTP) by Cox regression, and PSA response by logistic regression. A total of 275 patients were included. From the investigated genes CYP17A1, HSD3B1, CYP11B1, AKR1C3, SRD5A1 and SRD5A2, only rs4736349 in CYP11B1 in homozygous form (TT), present in 54 patients (20%), was related with a significantly worse OS (HR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.09 - 2.68, p = 0.019) and TTP (HR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.08 - 2.09, p = 0.016), and was related with a significantly less frequent PSA response (OR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.24 - 0.96, p = 0.038) on abiraterone or enzalutamide in a multivariable analysis. The frequent germline variant rs4736349 in CYP11B1 is, as homozygote, an independent negative prognostic factor for treatment with abiraterone or enzalutamide in ARSi naive metastatic prostate cancer patients. Our findings warrant prospective investigation of this potentially important predictive biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan A J Buck
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Marinda Meertens
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Esther Oomen-de Hoop
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Evert de Jonge
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke J H Coenen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andries M Bergman
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stijn L W Koolen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ronald de Wit
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alwin D R Huitema
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pharmacology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ron H N van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ron H J Mathijssen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Dong J, Rees DA. Polycystic ovary syndrome: pathophysiology and therapeutic opportunities. BMJ MEDICINE 2023; 2:e000548. [PMID: 37859784 PMCID: PMC10583117 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmed-2023-000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterised by excessive levels of androgens and ovulatory dysfunction, and is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Polycystic ovary syndrome arises as a result of polygenic susceptibility in combination with environmental influences that might include epigenetic alterations and in utero programming. In addition to the well recognised clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction, women with polycystic ovary syndrome have an increased risk of adverse mental health outcomes, pregnancy complications, and cardiometabolic disease. Unlicensed treatments have limited efficacy, mostly because drug development has been hampered by an incomplete understanding of the underlying pathophysiological processes. Advances in genetics, metabolomics, and adipocyte biology have improved our understanding of key changes in neuroendocrine, enteroendocrine, and steroidogenic pathways, including increased gonadotrophin releasing hormone pulsatility, androgen excess, insulin resistance, and changes in the gut microbiome. Many patients with polycystic ovary syndrome have high levels of 11-oxygenated androgens, with high androgenic potency, that might mediate metabolic risk. These advances have prompted the development of new treatments, including those that target the neurokinin-kisspeptin axis upstream of gonadotrophin releasing hormone, with the potential to lessen adverse clinical sequelae and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Dong
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - D Aled Rees
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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8
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Li L, Cao H, Yang J, Jin T, Ma Y, Wang Y, Li Z, Chen Y, Gao H, Zhu C, Yang T, Deng Y, Yang F, Dong W. Genetic and histological relationship between pheromone-secreting tissues of the musk gland and skin of juvenile Chinese forest musk deer ( Moschus berezovskii Flerov, 1929). J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2023; 24:807-822. [PMID: 37701957 PMCID: PMC10500096 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2200692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The musk glands of adult male Chinese forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii Flerov, 1929) (FMD), which are considered as special skin glands, secrete a mixture of sebum, lipids, and proteins into the musk pod. Together, these components form musk, which plays an important role in attracting females during the breeding season. However, the relationship between the musk glands and skin of Chinese FMD remains undiscovered. Here, the musk gland and skin of Chinese FMD were examined using histological analysis and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and the expression of key regulatory genes was evaluated to determine whether the musk gland is derived from the skin. METHODS: A comparative analysis of musk gland anatomy between juvenile and adult Chinese FMD was conducted. Then, based on the anatomical structure of the musk gland, skin tissues from the abdomen and back as well as musk gland tissues were obtained from three juvenile FMD. These tissues were used for RNA-seq, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), western blot (WB), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) experiments. RESULTS: Anatomical analysis showed that only adult male FMD had a complete glandular organ and musk pod, while juvenile FMD did not have any well-developed musk pods. Transcriptomic data revealed that 88.24% of genes were co-expressed in the skin and musk gland tissues. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway analysis found that the genes co-expressed in the abdomen skin, back skin, and musk gland were enriched in biological development, endocrine system, lipid metabolism, and other pathways. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that the genes expressed in these tissues were enriched in biological processes such as multicellular development and cell division. Moreover, the Metascape predictive analysis tool demonstrated that genes expressed in musk glands were skin tissue-specific. qRT-PCR and WB revealed that sex-determining region Y-box protein 9 (Sox9),Caveolin-1 (Cav-1), andandrogen receptor (AR) were expressed in all three tissues, although the expression levels differed among the tissues. According to the IHC results, Sox9 and AR were expressed in the nuclei of sebaceous gland, hair follicle, and musk gland cells, whereas Cav-1 was expressed in the cell membrane. CONCLUSIONS: The musk gland of Chinese FMD may be a derivative of skin tissue, and Sox9, Cav-1, and AR may play significant roles in musk gland development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Heran Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
- Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jinmeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Tianqi Jin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yuxuan Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Zhenpeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yining Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Huihui Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Chao Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Tianhao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yalong Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Fangxia Yang
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China. ,
- Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China. ,
| | - Wuzi Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
- Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
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9
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Poutanen M, Hagberg Thulin M, Härkönen P. Targeting sex steroid biosynthesis for breast and prostate cancer therapy. Nat Rev Cancer 2023:10.1038/s41568-023-00609-y. [PMID: 37684402 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00609-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matti Poutanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Turku Center for Disease Modelling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- FICAN West Cancer Center, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Malin Hagberg Thulin
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pirkko Härkönen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- FICAN West Cancer Center, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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10
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Dahmani C, Caron P, Simonyan D, Turcotte V, Grégoire J, Plante M, Guillemette C. Circulating adrenal 11-oxygenated androgens are associated with clinical outcome in endometrial cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1156680. [PMID: 37288302 PMCID: PMC10242140 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1156680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Recent evidence support that androgens play an important role in the etiology of endometrial cancer (EC). Adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens are highly potent agonists of the androgen receptor (AR), comparable to testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that have not been studied in the context of EC. Methodology We studied a cohort of 272 newly diagnosed postmenopausal EC cases undergoing surgical treatment. Circulating concentrations of seven 11-oxygenated androgens including precursors, potent androgens and their metabolites were established in serum samples collected before and 1 month after surgery using a validated liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method (LC-MS/MS). Free (unconjugated) and total (free + sulfate and glucuronide conjugates following enzymatic hydrolysis) were analyzed in relation to clinicopathological features, recurrence and disease-free survival (DFS). Results Levels of 11-oxygenated androgens were weakly correlated to those of canonical androgens such as testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), with no evidence of their association with clinicopathological features. Levels of 11-oxygenated androgens declined after surgery but remained higher in overweight and obese compared to normal weight cases. Higher levels of preoperative free 11-ketoandrosterone (11KAST) were associated with an increased risk of recurrence (Hazard ratio (HR) of 2.99 (95%CI=1.09-8.18); P=0.03). Postoperative free 11β-hydroxyandrosterone (11OHAST) levels were adversely associated with recurrence and DFS (HR = 3.23 (1.11-9.40); P=0.03 and 3.27 (1.34-8.00); P=0.009, respectively). Conclusion 11-oxygenated androgen metabolites emerge as potential prognostic markers of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cylia Dahmani
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec (CHU de Québec) Research Center, Cancer Research Center (CRC) of Université Laval and Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Caron
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec (CHU de Québec) Research Center, Cancer Research Center (CRC) of Université Laval and Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - David Simonyan
- Statistical and Clinical Research Platform, CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Turcotte
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec (CHU de Québec) Research Center, Cancer Research Center (CRC) of Université Laval and Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Jean Grégoire
- Gynecologic Oncology Service, CHU de Québec, and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Marie Plante
- Gynecologic Oncology Service, CHU de Québec, and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Guillemette
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec (CHU de Québec) Research Center, Cancer Research Center (CRC) of Université Laval and Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Canada Research Chair in Pharmacogenomics, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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11
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Bui NN, Li CY, Wang LY, Chen YA, Kao WH, Chou LF, Hsieh JT, Lin H, Lai CH. Clostridium scindens metabolites trigger prostate cancer progression through androgen receptor signaling. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2023; 56:246-256. [PMID: 36639348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2022.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies in men; recently, PCa-related mortality has increased worldwide. Although androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the standard treatment for PCa, patients often develop aggressive castration-resistant PCa (CRPC), indicating the presence of an alternative source of androgen. Clostridium scindens is a member of the gut microbiota and can convert cortisol to 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11β-OHA), which is a potent androgen precursor. However, the effect of C. scindens on PCa progression has not been determined. In this study, androgen-dependent PCa cells (LNCaP) were employed to investigate whether C. scindens-derived metabolites activate androgen receptor (AR), which is a pivotal step in the development of PCa. Results showed that cortisol metabolites derived from C. scindens-conditioned medium promoted proliferation and enhanced migration of PCa cells. Furthermore, cells treated with these metabolites presented activated AR and stimulated AR-regulated genes. These findings reveal that C. scindens has the potential to promote PCa progression via the activation of AR signaling. Further studies on the gut-prostate axis may help unravel an alternative source of androgen that triggers CRPC exacerbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Niem Bui
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho, Viet Nam
| | - Chen-Yi Li
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Yu Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-An Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Wei-Hsiang Kao
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Li-Fang Chou
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Kidney Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Jer-Tsong Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ho Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan; Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ho Lai
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, School of Medicine, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan; Molecular Infectious Disease Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan.
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12
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Bentley C, Hazeldine J, Bravo L, Taylor AE, Gilligan LC, Shaheen F, Acharjee A, Gkoutos G, Foster MA, Arlt W, Lord JM. The ultra-acute steroid response to traumatic injury: a cohort study. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:7049580. [PMID: 36809311 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad024] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Trauma-induced steroid changes have been studied post-hospital admission, resulting in a lack of understanding of the speed and extent of the immediate endocrine response to injury. The Golden Hour study was designed to capture the ultra-acute response to traumatic injury. DESIGN We conducted an observational cohort study including adult male trauma patients <60 years, with blood samples drawn ≤1 h of major trauma by pre-hospital emergency responders. METHODS We recruited 31 adult male trauma patients (mean age 28 [range 19-59] years) with a mean injury severity score (ISS) of 16 (IQR 10-21). The median time to first sample was 35 (range 14-56) min, with follow-up samples collected 4-12 and 48-72 h post-injury. Serum steroids in patients and age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) (n = 34) were analysed by tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Within 1 h of injury, we observed an increase in glucocorticoid and adrenal androgen biosynthesis. Cortisol and 11-hydroxyandrostendione increased rapidly, whilst cortisone and 11-ketoandrostenedione decreased, reflective of increased cortisol and 11-oxygenated androgen precursor biosynthesis by 11β-hydroxylase and increased cortisol activation by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1. Active classic gonadal androgens testosterone and 5α-dihydrotestosterone decreased, whilst the active 11-oxygenated androgen 11-ketotestosterone maintained pre-injury levels. CONCLUSIONS Changes in steroid biosynthesis and metabolism occur within minutes of traumatic injury. Studies that address whether ultra-early changes in steroid metabolism are associated with patient outcomes are now required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor Bentley
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Hazeldine
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Bravo
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Centre for Computational Biology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Lorna C Gilligan
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Fozia Shaheen
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Animesh Acharjee
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Centre for Computational Biology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - George Gkoutos
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Centre for Computational Biology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Health Data Research UK (HDR), United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Foster
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham Research Park, Birmingham B15 2SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2GW, United Kingdom
| | - Janet M Lord
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2GW, United Kingdom
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13
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Schiffer L, Kempegowda P, Sitch AJ, Adaway JE, Shaheen F, Ebbehoj A, Singh S, McTaggart MP, O'Reilly MW, Prete A, Hawley JM, Keevil BG, Bancos I, Taylor AE, Arlt W. Classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in serum and saliva across adulthood: a cross-sectional study analyzing the impact of age, body mass index, and diurnal and menstrual cycle variation. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:lvac017. [PMID: 36651154 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE 11-oxygenated androgens significantly contribute to the circulating androgen pool. Understanding the physiological variation of 11-oxygenated androgens and their determinants is essential for clinical interpretation, for example, in androgen excess conditions. We quantified classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in serum and saliva across the adult age and body mass index (BMI) range, also analyzing diurnal and menstrual cycle-dependent variation. DESIGN Cross-sectional. Morning serum samples were collected from 290 healthy volunteers (125 men, 22-95 years; 165 women, 21-91 years). Morning saliva samples were collected by a sub-group (51 women and 32 men). Diurnal saliva profiles were collected by 13 men. Twelve women collected diurnal saliva profiles and morning saliva samples on 7 consecutive days during both follicular and luteal menstrual cycle phases. METHODS Serum and salivary steroids were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry profiling assays. RESULTS Serum classic androgens decreased with age-adjusted BMI, for example, %change kg/m2 for 5α-dihydrotestosterone: men -5.54% (95% confidence interval (CI) -8.10 to -2.98) and women -1.62% (95%CI -3.16 to -0.08). By contrast, 11-oxygenated androgens increased with BMI, for example, %change kg/m2 for 11-ketotestosterone: men 3.05% (95%CI 0.08-6.03) and women 1.68% (95%CI -0.44 to 3.79). Conversely, classic androgens decreased with age in both men and women, while 11-oxygenated androgens did not. Salivary androgens showed a diurnal pattern in men and in the follicular phase in women; in the luteal phase, only 11-oxygenated androgens showed diurnal variation. CONCLUSIONS Classic androgens decrease while active 11-oxygenated androgens increase with increasing BMI, pointing toward the importance of adipose tissue mass for the activation of 11-oxygenated androgens. Classic but not 11-oxygenated androgens decline with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Punith Kempegowda
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alice J Sitch
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne E Adaway
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Fozia Shaheen
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Ebbehoj
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sumitabh Singh
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Malcom P McTaggart
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Michael W O'Reilly
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Endocrinology Research Group, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - James M Hawley
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Brian G Keevil
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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14
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Snaterse G, Hofland J, Lapauw B. The role of 11-oxygenated androgens in prostate cancer. ENDOCRINE ONCOLOGY (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2023; 3:e220072. [PMID: 37434644 PMCID: PMC10305623 DOI: 10.1530/eo-22-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
11-oxygenated androgens are a class of steroids capable of activating the androgen receptor (AR) at physiologically relevant concentrations. In view of the AR as a key driver of prostate cancer (PC), these steroids are potential drivers of disease and progression. The 11-oxygenated androgens are adrenal-derived, and persist after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), the mainstay treatment for advanced PC. Consequently, these steroids are of particular interest in the castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) setting. The principal androgen of the pathway, 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), is a potent AR agonist and the predominant circulating active androgen in CRPC patients. Additionally, several precursor steroids are present in the circulation which can be converted into active androgens by steroidogenic enzymes present in PC cells. In vitro evidence suggests that adaptations frequently observed in CRPC favour the intratumoral accumulation of 11-oxygenated androgens in particular. Still, apparent gaps in our understanding of the physiology and role of the 11-oxygenated androgens remain. In particular, in vivo and clinical evidence supporting these in vitro findings is limited. Despite recent advances, a comprehensive assessment of intratumoral concentrations has not yet been performed. The exact contribution of the 11-oxygenated androgens to CRPC progression therefore remains unclear. This review will focus on the current evidence linking the 11-oxygenated androgens to PC, will highlight current gaps in our knowledge, and will provide insight into the potential clinical importance of the 11-oxygenated androgens in the CRPC setting based on the current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gido Snaterse
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Johannes Hofland
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bruno Lapauw
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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15
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Storbeck KH. A commentary on the origins of 11-ketotestosterone. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:C5-C8. [PMID: 36173704 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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16
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Kudo Y, Endo S, Tanio M, Saka T, Himura R, Abe N, Takeda M, Yamaguchi E, Yoshino Y, Arai Y, Kashiwagi H, Oyama M, Itoh A, Shiota M, Fujimoto N, Ikari A. Antiandrogenic Effects of a Polyphenol in Carex kobomugi through Inhibition of Androgen Synthetic Pathway and Downregulation of Androgen Receptor in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214356. [PMID: 36430833 PMCID: PMC9696374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214356] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) represents the most common cancer disease in men. Since high levels of androgens increase the risk of PC, androgen deprivation therapy is the primary treatment; however this leads to castration-resistant PC (CRPC) with a poor prognosis. The progression to CRPC involves ectopic androgen production in the adrenal glands and abnormal activation of androgen signaling due to mutations and/or amplification of the androgen receptor (AR) as well as activation of androgen-independent proliferative pathways. Recent studies have shown that adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens (11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone) with potencies equivalent to those of traditional androgens (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) are biomarkers of CRPC. Additionally, dehydrogenase/reductase SDR family member 11 (DHRS11) has been reported to be a 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase that catalyzes the production of the 11-oxygenated and traditional androgens. This study was conducted to evaluate the pathophysiological roles of DHRS11 in PC using three LNCaP, C4-2 and 22Rv1 cell lines. DHRS11 silencing and inhibition resulted in suppression of the androgen-induced expression of AR downstream genes and decreases in the expression of nuclear AR and the proliferation marker Ki67, suggesting that DHRS11 is involved in androgen-dependent PC cell proliferation. We found that 5,7-dihydroxy-8-methyl-2-[2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethenyl]-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (Kobochromone A, KC-A), an ingredient in the flowers of Carex kobomugi, is a novel potent DHRS11 inhibitor (IC50 = 0.35 μM). Additionally, KC-A itself decreased the AR expression in PC cells. Therefore, KC-A suppresses the androgen signaling in PC cells through both DHRS11 inhibition and AR downregulation. Furthermore, KC-A enhanced the anticancer activity of abiraterone, a CRPC drug, suggesting that it may be a potential candidate for the development of drugs for the prevention and treatment of CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudai Kudo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Satoshi Endo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-58-230-8100; Fax: +81-58-230-8105
| | - Masatoshi Tanio
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Saka
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Rin Himura
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Naohito Abe
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Mitsumi Takeda
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Synthetic Chemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Eiji Yamaguchi
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Synthetic Chemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Yuta Yoshino
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Yuki Arai
- Universal Corporation Co., Ltd., Gifu 502-0931, Japan
| | - Hirohito Kashiwagi
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
- Universal Corporation Co., Ltd., Gifu 502-0931, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Oyama
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Akichika Itoh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Synthetic Chemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Masaki Shiota
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Naohiro Fujimoto
- Department of Urology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Akira Ikari
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
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17
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Shiota M, Endo S, Blas L, Fujimoto N, Eto M. Steroidogenesis in castration-resistant prostate cancer. Urol Oncol 2022; 41:240-251. [PMID: 36376200 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2022.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Castration resistance is in part attributable to aberrant activation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling by the intracrine activation of androgen precursors derived from adrenal glands. To overcome this, novel AR pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) that suppress androgen synthesis by CYP17 inhibition or AR activation by antiandrogen effects have been developed. However, primary or acquired resistance to these ARPIs occurs; in turn attributable, at least in part, to the maintained androgen milieu despite intensive suppression of AR signaling similar to castration resistance. In addition to the classical pathway to produce potent androgens such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, the alternative pathway and the backdoor pathway which bypasses testosterone to produce dihydrotestosterone have been shown to play a role in intratumor steroidogenesis. Furthermore, the 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione pathway to produce the potent oxygenated androgens 11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone has been suggested to be functional in prostate cancer. These steroidogenesis pathways produce potent androgens that promote tumor resistance to endocrine therapy including novel ARPIs. Here, we overview the current evidence on the pathological androgen milieu by altered metabolism and transport in prostate cancer, leading to resistance to endocrine therapy.
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18
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Perusquía M. Androgens and Non-Genomic vascular responses in hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115200. [PMID: 35926652 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Arterial hypertension is a global public health concern. In the last few years, the interest in androgen deficiency has been growing, and the association between androgens and high blood pressure (BP) is still controversial. One purpose of this review was to summarize the available findings in order to clarify whether male sex steroid hormones have beneficial or harmful effect on BP. The second purpose was to enhance the recognition of the acute non-genomic sex-independent vasorelaxing effect of androgens. Remarkably, BP variation is expected to be a consequence of the androgen-induced vasorelaxation which reduces systemic BP; hence the in vivo vasodepressor, hypotensive, and antihypertensive responses of androgens were also analyzed. This article reviews the current understanding of the physiological regulation of vascular smooth muscle contractility by androgens. Additionally, it summarizes older and more recent data on androgens, and some of the possible underlying mechanisms of relaxation, structural-functional differences in the androgen molecules, and their designing ability to induce vasorelaxation. The clinical relevance of these findings in terms of designing future therapeutics mainly the 5-reduced metabolite of testosterone, 5β-dihydrotestosterone, is also highlighted. Literature collected through a PubMed database search, as well as our experimental work, was used for the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Perusquía
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 Ciudad de México, México.
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19
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Gjorgoska M, Rizner TL. Integration of androgen hormones in endometrial cancer biology. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:639-651. [PMID: 35879182 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.06.001] [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: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a gynecological pathology that affects the uterine inner lining. In recent years, genomic studies revealed continually evolving mutational landscapes of endometrial tumors that hold great potential for tailoring therapeutic strategies. This review aims to broaden our knowledge of EC biology by focusing on the role of androgen hormones. First, we discuss epidemiological evidence implicating androgens with EC pathogenesis and cover their biosynthesis and metabolism to bioactive 11-oxyandrogens. Next, we explore the endometrial tumor tissue and the altered microbiota as alternative sources of androgens and their 11-oxymetabolites in EC patients. Finally, we discuss the biological significance of androgens' genomic and nongenomic signaling as part of a medley of pathways ultimately deciding the fate of cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Gjorgoska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tea Lanisnik Rizner
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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20
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Advances in the Current Understanding of the Mechanisms Governing the Acquisition of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153744. [PMID: 35954408 PMCID: PMC9367587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite aggressive treatment and androgen-deprivation therapy, most prostate cancer patients ultimately develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which is associated with high mortality rates. However, the mechanisms governing the development of CRPC are poorly understood, and androgen receptor (AR) signaling has been shown to be important in CRPC through AR gene mutations, gene overexpression, co-regulatory factors, AR shear variants, and androgen resynthesis. A growing number of non-AR pathways have also been shown to influence the CRPC progression, including the Wnt and Hh pathways. Moreover, non-coding RNAs have been identified as important regulators of the CRPC pathogenesis. The present review provides an overview of the relevant literature pertaining to the mechanisms governing the molecular acquisition of castration resistance in prostate cancer, providing a foundation for future, targeted therapeutic efforts.
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21
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Paulukinas RD, Mesaros CA, Penning TM. Conversion of Classical and 11-Oxygenated Androgens by Insulin-Induced AKR1C3 in a Model of Human PCOS Adipocytes. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6585535. [PMID: 35560164 PMCID: PMC9162389 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy in women. A common symptom of PCOS is hyperandrogenism (AE); however, the source of these androgens is uncertain. Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C3 (AKR1C3) catalyzes the formation of testosterone (T) and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in peripheral tissues, which activate the androgen receptor (AR). AKR1C3 is induced by insulin in adipocytes and may be central in driving the AE in PCOS. We elucidated the conversion of both classical and 11-oxygenated androgens to potent androgens in a model of PCOS adipocytes. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) discontinuous kinetic assays to measure product formation by recombinant AKR1C3, we found that the conversion of 11-keto-Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione (11K-4AD) to 11-ketotestosterone (11K-T) and 11-keto-5α-androstane-3,17-dione (11K-5AD) to 11-keto-5α-dihydrotestosterone (11K-DHT) were superior to the formation of T and DHT. We utilized a stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometric (SID-LC-HRMS) assay for the quantification of both classical and 11-oxygenated androgens in differentiated Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome adipocytes in which AKR1C3 was induced by insulin. Adipocytes were treated with adrenal derived 11β-hydroxy-Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione (11β-OH-4AD), 11K-4AD, or Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione (4AD). The conversion of 11β-OH-4AD and 11K-4AD to 11K-T required AKR1C3. We also found that once 11K-T is formed, it is inactivated to 11β-hydroxy-testosterone (11β-OH-T) by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1). Our data reveal a unique role for HSD11B1 in protecting the AR from AE. We conclude that the 11-oxygenated androgens formed in adipocytes may contribute to the hyperandrogenic profile of PCOS women and that AKR1C3 is a potential therapeutic target to mitigate the AE of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Paulukinas
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Clementina A Mesaros
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Trevor M Penning
- Correspondence: Dr. Trevor M. Penning, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, 1315 BRB II/III, 421 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104-6061, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was introduced in the 1950s following the discovery of the structure and function of adrenocortical hormones. Although major advances in molecular biology have delineated steroidogenic mechanisms and the genetics of CAH, management and treatment of this condition continue to present challenges. Management is complicated by a combination of comorbidities that arise from disease-related hormonal derangements and treatment-related adverse effects. The clinical outcomes of CAH can include life-threatening adrenal crises, altered growth and early puberty, and adverse effects on metabolic, cardiovascular, bone and reproductive health. Standard-of-care glucocorticoid formulations fall short of replicating the circadian rhythm of cortisol and controlling efficient adrenocorticotrophic hormone-driven adrenal androgen production. Adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens have emerged as potential new biomarkers for CAH, as traditional biomarkers are subject to variability and are not adrenal-specific, contributing to management challenges. Multiple alternative treatment approaches are being developed with the aim of tailoring therapy for improved patient outcomes. This Review focuses on challenges and advances in the management and treatment of CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, the most common type of CAH. Furthermore, we examine new therapeutic developments, including treatments designed to replace cortisol in a physiological manner and adjunct agents intended to control excess androgens and thereby enable reductions in glucocorticoid doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Mallappa
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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23
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De Maria M, Kroll KJ, Yu F, Nouri MZ, Silva-Sanchez C, Perez JG, Moraga Amador DA, Zhang Y, Walsh MT, Denslow ND. Endocrine, immune and renal toxicity in male largemouth bass after chronic exposure to glyphosate and Rodeo®. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 246:106142. [PMID: 35306440 PMCID: PMC9007883 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate is the most used herbicide worldwide, with no historical comparison. It is used for genetically modified crops, and particularly in Florida, it is used as a sugar cane ripener. An aquatic formulation (Rodeo®) is used to treat aquatic weeds in waterbodies and drainage canals. Because of its extended use, glyphosate can run off or be sprayed directly into waterbodies, and chronically expose aquatic wildlife. Exposure in animal models has been associated with kidney and liver damage and glyphosate has been suggested as an endocrine disruptor. We exposed adult male largemouth bass for 21 days to two doses of glyphosate and Rodeo® (chemically equivalent concentration of glyphosate) at 0.5 mg L-1 and 10 mg L-1 and to a clean water control (n=4 fish/tank in quadruplicate). Concentrations during the experiment were corroborated with UHPLC-MS/MS. Total RNA was isolated from the trunk kidney and head kidney. RNA-seq was performed for the high doses compared to controls. Transcripts were analyzed with fish and mammalian pathway analyses software. Transcripts mapped to Zebrafish metabolic pathways using PaintOmics showed steroid hormone biosynthesis in the trunk kidney as the most significantly enriched pathway. Steroid hormones were measured in plasma by UHPLC-MS/MS. Total androgens were significantly reduced at 0.5 mg L-1 of glyphosate and at equivalent concentrations in Rodeo® compared to controls. 11-ketotestosterone and estrone concentrations were significantly reduced in all doses. A gene involved in the conversion of testosterone to 11-ketotestosterone was down-regulated by glyphosate. Using the mammalian pathway analysis algorithm, cellular processes associated with T-cell activation/development and intracellular pH were significantly enriched in the trunk kidney by glyphosate and Rodeo® exposure. Endocrine disruption was corroborated at the hormone and gene expression levels. Rodeo® and glyphosate share gene expression pathways, however, Rodeo® had more pronounced effects in largemouth bass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maite De Maria
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
| | - Kevin J Kroll
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Fahong Yu
- Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research (ICBR), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Mohammad-Zaman Nouri
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Cecilia Silva-Sanchez
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Juan Guillermo Perez
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - David A Moraga Amador
- Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research (ICBR), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Yanping Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research (ICBR), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Mike T Walsh
- Aquatic Animal Health Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 100136, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Nancy D Denslow
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States.
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24
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Tosi F, Villani M, Garofalo S, Faccin G, Bonora E, Fiers T, Kaufman JM, Moghetti P. Clinical Value of Serum Levels of 11-Oxygenated Metabolites of Testosterone in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e2047-e2055. [PMID: 34951635 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Recent data suggested that 11-oxygenated androgens may be the preponderant circulating androgens in women with PCOS. However, the pathophysiological significance of these hormones remains unclear. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships between serum 11-OH testosterone (11-OHT) and 11-keto testosterone (11-KetoT) and clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism, as well as the metabolic parameters, in women with PCOS. METHODS The main classic and 11-oxygenated androgens were measured by LC-MS/MS and direct equilibrium dialysis in 123 women with PCOS, diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria, and 38 healthy controls. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. RESULTS Serum 11-oxygenated androgens were higher in women with PCOS than in controls. Elevated levels of 11-OHT and 11-KetoT were found in 28.5% and 30.1% of PCOS women, respectively, whereas free testosterone (FT) was increased in 61.0% of them. Serum 11-oxygenated androgens showed a limited performance in recognizing women with classically defined hyperandrogenism. Unlike FT, 11-oxygenated androgens did not show significant relationships with anthropometric and metabolic parameters, except for a direct association with insulin sensitivity. In multivariable analysis, 11-OHT and 11-KetoT, directly, and FT, inversely, remained significant independent predictors of insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS Serum levels of 11-oxygenated androgens are higher in women with PCOS than in controls. However, these hormones show a poor performance in recognizing women with hyperandrogenism, as currently defined. The relationships of these androgens with insulin sensitivity strongly differ from that of FT, suggesting a different role of classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in the pathophysiology of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Tosi
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Villani
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Sabrina Garofalo
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Faccin
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Enzo Bonora
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Tom Fiers
- Laboratory for Hormonology and Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean-Marc Kaufman
- Laboratory for Hormonology and Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paolo Moghetti
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
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25
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Handelsman DJ, Cooper ER, Heather AK. Bioactivity of 11 keto and hydroxy androgens in yeast and mammalian host cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 218:106049. [PMID: 34990809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.106049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of 11oxygenated (keto or hydroxy) androgens in human reproductive function with 11keto androgens circulating at concentrations comparable with testosterone in women and children. However, the intrinsic androgenic bioactivities of 11 keto and hydroxy androgens are not fully characterized. We therefore investigated the full androgen dose-response curves using complementary in vitro yeast and mammalian (HEK293) host cell bioassays of 11 keto and hydroxy derivatives of the potent androgens, testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), compared with their parent non-11 oxygenated steroids together with the pro-androgen precursor (androstenedione (A4)) and metabolites (androstanedione, androsterone). For potent androgens, the mammalian HEK293 host cell bioassay was 22-138 times more sensitive than the yeast host cell bioassay. In both androgen bioassays, 11keto derivatives displayed androgenic bioactivity but significantly lower molar potency than their parent non-keto steroids. By contrast, the 11hydroxy derivatives had minimal or no androgenic bioactivity. In both bioassays 5α-reduction increased androgenic potency. These findings confirm that that 11keto androgens may contribute directly to androgen status in women, children, and other conditions apart from healthy eugonadal men whereas 11hydroxy androgens have negligible androgenic potency although it cannot be excluded that they may be converted to more potent androgens in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elliot R Cooper
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; National Measurement Institute, Sydney, Australia; Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand
| | - Alison K Heather
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand
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26
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Snaterse G, Mies R, van Weerden WM, French PJ, Jonker JW, Houtsmuller AB, van Royen ME, Visser JA, Hofland J. Androgen receptor mutations modulate activation by 11-oxygenated androgens and glucocorticoids. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis 2022:10.1038/s41391-022-00491-z. [PMID: 35046557 DOI: 10.1038/s41391-022-00491-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgen receptor (AR) ligand-binding domain (LBD) mutations occur in ~20% of all castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients. These mutations confer ligand promiscuity, but the affinity for many steroid hormone pathway intermediates is unknown. In this study, we investigated the stimulation of clinically relevant AR-LBD mutants by endogenous and exogenous steroid hormones present in CRPC patients to unravel their potential contribution to AR pathway reactivation. METHODS A meta-analysis of studies reporting untargeted analysis of AR mutants was performed to identify clinically relevant AR-LBD mutations. Using luciferase reporter and quantitative fluorescent microscopy, these AR mutants were screened for sensitivity for various endogenous steroids and synthetic glucocorticoids used in the treatment of CRPC. RESULTS The meta-analysis revealed that ARL702H (3.4%), ARH875Y (4.9%), and ART878A (4.4%) were the most prevalent AR-LBD mutations across 1614 CRPC patients from 21 unique studies. Testosterone (EC50: 0.22 nmol/L) and 11-ketotestosterone (11KT, EC50: 0.74 nmol/L) displayed subnanomolar affinity for ARWT. The p.H875Y mutation selectively increased sensitivity of the AR for 11KT (EC50: 0.15 nmol/L, p < 0.05 vs ARWT), whereas p.L702H decreased sensitivity for 11KT by almost 50-fold. While cortisol and prednisolone both stimulate ARL702H, dexamethasone importantly does not. CONCLUSION Both testosterone and 11KT effectively contribute to ARWT activation, while selective sensitization positions 11KT as a more prominent activator of ARH875Y. Dexamethasone may be a suitable alternative to prednisolone and should be explored in patients bearing the ARL702H.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gido Snaterse
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rosinda Mies
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wytske M van Weerden
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim J French
- Cancer Treatment Screening Facility, Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johan W Jonker
- Section of Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan B Houtsmuller
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin E van Royen
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jenny A Visser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes Hofland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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27
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Mozar F, Sharma V, Gorityala S, Albert JM, Xu Y, Montano MM. Downregulation of Dihydrotestosterone and Estradiol Levels by HEXIM1. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqab236. [PMID: 34864989 PMCID: PMC8645165 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have previously reported that hexamethylene bis-acetamide inducible protein 1 (HEXIM1) inhibits the activity of ligand-bound estrogen receptor α (ERα) and the androgen receptor (AR) by disrupting the interaction between these receptors and positive transcriptional elongation factor b (P-TEFb) and attenuating RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) phosphorylation at serine 2. Functional consequences of the inhibition of transcriptional activity of ERα and AR by HEXIM1 include the inhibition of ERα- and AR-dependent gene expression, respectively, and the resulting attenuation of breast cancer (BCa) and prostate cancer (PCa) cell proliferation and growth. In our present study, we determined that HEXIM1 inhibited AKR1C3 expression in BCa and PCa cells. AKR1C3, also known as 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) type 5, is a key enzyme involved in the synthesis of 17β-estradiol (E2) and 5-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Downregulation of AKR1C3 by HEXIM1 influenced E2 and DHT production, estrogen- and androgen-dependent gene expression, and cell proliferation. Our studies indicate that HEXIM1 has the unique ability to inhibit both the transcriptional activity of the ER and AR and the synthesis of the endogenous ligands of these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitya Mozar
- Department of Pharmacology; Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Vikas Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology; Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Shashank Gorityala
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Albert
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
| | - Monica M Montano
- Department of Pharmacology; Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
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28
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Fukami M. 11-Oxyandrogens from the viewpoint of pediatric endocrinology. Clin Pediatr Endocrinol 2022; 31:110-115. [PMID: 35928376 PMCID: PMC9297174 DOI: 10.1297/cpe.2022-0029] [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: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
11-Oxyandrogens, such as 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), 11-ketodihydrotestosterone
(11-KDHT), 11β-hydroxytestosterone (11-OHT), 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11-OHA4), and
11-KA4, are newly specified human androgens. These 11-oxyandrogens are present in the cord
blood and placenta, as well as in the blood of men and women of various ages, and are
produced primarily in the adrenal gland. Accumulating evidence suggests that these
steroids contribute to androgen excess in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency or
polycystic ovary syndrome. More importantly, unlike classic androgens, 11-oxyandrogens
produced in maternal tumors can pass through the placenta without being converted into
estrogens, and cause severe virilization of female fetuses. Thus, overproduction of
11-oxyandrogens represents a new mechanism of 46,XX disorders of sex development. On the
other hand, the physiological roles of 11-oxyandrogens remain to be clarified. This
mini-review introduces the current understanding of 11-oxyandrogens, from the perspective
of pediatric endocrinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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29
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O’Donnell L, Whiley PAF, Loveland KL. Activin A and Sertoli Cells: Key to Fetal Testis Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:898876. [PMID: 35685219 PMCID: PMC9171382 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.898876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The long-standing knowledge that Sertoli cells determine fetal testosterone production levels is not widespread, despite being first reported over a decade ago in studies of mice. Hence any ongoing use of testosterone as a marker of Leydig cell function in fetal testes is inappropriate. By interrogating new scRNAseq data from human fetal testes, we demonstrate this situation is also likely to be true in humans. This has implications for understanding how disruptions to either or both Leydig and Sertoli cells during the in utero masculinization programming window may contribute to the increasing incidence of hypospadias, cryptorchidism, testicular germ cell tumours and adult infertility. We recently discovered that activin A levels directly govern androgen production in mouse Sertoli cells, because the enzymes that drive the conversion of the precursor androgen androstenedione to generate testosterone are produced exclusively in Sertoli cells in response to activin A. This minireview addresses the implications of this growing understanding of how in utero exposures affect fetal masculinization for future research on reproductive health, including during programming windows that may ultimately be relevant for organ development in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Penny A. F. Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kate L. Loveland,
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30
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Abstract
Adrenarche is the maturational increase in adrenal androgen production that normally begins in early childhood. It results from changes in the secretory response to adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) that are best indexed by dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) rise. These changes are related to the development of the zona reticularis (ZR) and its unique gene/enzyme expression pattern of low 3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 with high cytochrome b5A, sulfotransferase 2A1, and 17ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 5. Recently 11-ketotestosterone was identified as an important bioactive adrenarchal androgen. Birth weight, body growth, obesity, and prolactin are related to ZR development. Adrenarchal androgens normally contribute to the onset of sexual pubic hair (pubarche) and sebaceous and apocrine gland development. Premature adrenarche causes ≥90% of premature pubarche (PP). Its cause is unknown. Affected children have a significantly increased growth rate with proportionate bone age advancement that typically does not compromise growth potential. Serum DHEAS and testosterone levels increase to levels normal for early female puberty. It is associated with mildly increased risks for obesity, insulin resistance, and possibly mood disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome. Between 5% and 10% of PP is due to virilizing disorders, which are usually characterized by more rapid advancement of pubarche and compromise of adult height potential than premature adrenarche. Most cases are due to nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Algorithms are presented for the differential diagnosis of PP. This review highlights recent advances in molecular genetic and developmental biologic understanding of ZR development and insights into adrenarche emanating from mass spectrometric steroid assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Rosenfield
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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31
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Turcu AF, Mallappa A, Nella AA, Chen X, Zhao L, Nanba AT, Byrd JB, Auchus RJ, Merke DP. 24-Hour Profiles of 11-Oxygenated C 19 Steroids and Δ 5-Steroid Sulfates during Oral and Continuous Subcutaneous Glucocorticoids in 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:751191. [PMID: 34867794 PMCID: PMC8636728 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.751191] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Optimal management of androgen excess in 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) remains challenging. 11-oxygenated-C19 steroids (11-oxyandrogens) have emerged as promising biomarkers of disease control, but data regarding their response to treatment are lacking. Objective To compare the dynamic response of a broad set of steroids to both conventional oral glucocorticoids (OG) and circadian cortisol replacement via continuous subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusion (CSHI) in patients with 21OHD based on 24-hour serial sampling. Participants and Methods We studied 8 adults (5 women), ages 19-43 years, with poorly controlled classic 21OHD who participated in a single-center open-label phase I-II study comparing OG with CSHI. We used mass spectrometry to measure 15 steroids (including 11-oxyandrogens and Δ5 steroid sulfates) in serum samples obtained every 2 h for 24 h after 3 months of stable OG, and 6 months into ongoing CSHI. Results In response to OG therapy, androstenedione, testosterone (T), and their four 11-oxyandrogen metabolites:11β-hydroxyandrostenedione, 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone and 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) demonstrated a delayed decline in serum concentrations, and they achieved a nadir between 0100-0300. Unlike DHEAS, which had little diurnal variation, pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) and 17-hydoxypregnenolone sulfate peaked in early morning and declined progressively throughout the day. CSHI dampened the early ACTH and androgen rise, allowing the ACTH-driven adrenal steroids to return closer to baseline before mid-day. 11KT concentrations displayed the most consistent difference between OG and CSHI across all time segments. While T was lowered by CSHI as compared with OG in women, T increased in men, suggesting an improvement of the testicular function in parallel with 21OHD control in men. Conclusion 11-oxyandrogens and PregS could serve as biomarkers of disease control in 21OHD. The development of normative data for these promising novel biomarkers must consider their diurnal variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ashwini Mallappa
- Pediatric Service, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Aikaterini A Nella
- Division of Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Xuan Chen
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lili Zhao
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Aya T Nanba
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - James Brian Byrd
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Deborah P Merke
- Pediatric Service, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Islam RM, Bell RJ, Skiba MA, Davis SR. Testosterone and androstenedione are positively associated with anti-Müllerian hormone in premenopausal women. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 95:752-759. [PMID: 34524701 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14592] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To document associations between anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and circulating androgens in nonhealthcare-seeking premenopausal women. DESIGN Community-based, cross-sectional study. SETTING Eastern states of Australia. PARTICIPANTS Women aged 18-39 years not using systemic hormones, not pregnant or breastfeeding within 3 months, and not postmenopausal. MEASUREMENTS AMH, measured by the Beckman Access 2, 2 site immunometric assay from fresh samples, and testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and 11-oxygenated C19 steroids, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Data were available for 794 women, median age of 33 years (range: 18-39). 76.1% were of European ancestry and 48.2% were parous. Serum AMH was positively associated with testosterone (rho = .29, p < .001) androstenedione (rho = .39, p < .001) and DHEA (rho = .10, p = .005) but not 11-ketoandrostenedione or 11-ketotestosterone. When adjusted for age, body mass index and smoking, using quantile regression, independent positive associations remained between AMH and testosterone (β coefficient: 20.90, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.79-28.03; p < .001) and androstenedione (β coefficient: 5.90, 95% CI: 3.76-8.03; p < .001). The serum concentration of testosterone was greater at the top AMH quintile than other quintiles (0.56 nmol/L [range: 0.21-1.90] vs. 0.36 nmol/L [range: 0.13-0.87]; p = .001) in women with self-reported polycystic ovary syndrome. CONCLUSIONS The positive associations between serum testosterone and androstenedione and AMH in premenopausal women is consistent with androgens directly or indirectly influencing AMH production during follicular development. As the highest AMH concentrations are most likely to be seen in women with multifollicular ovaries, it would be expected that women with multifollicular ovaries would have higher serum testosterone. Therefore, whether hyperandrogenemia and multifollicular ovaries should be considered independent characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome warrants review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakibul M Islam
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robin J Bell
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marina A Skiba
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Yang J, Peng G, Shu F, Dong D, Zheng X, Zhu C, Li X, Ma J, Pan C, Yang F, Dong W. Characteristics of steroidogenesis-related factors in the musk gland of Chinese forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii). J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 212:105916. [PMID: 34010686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105916] [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: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Musk secreted by Chinese forest musk deer (FMD; Moschus berezovskii) is a highly valuable ingredient in the fields of perfumery and medicine, and the main factor affecting the production of musk is the androgen level of male FMD. To clarify whether the musk gland of FMD can synthesize androgen, we compared and analyzed the expression patterns of steroid hormone biosynthesis-related genes in the musk gland and testis of FMD by RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. We obtained 33,308 and 38,602 unigenes from the musk gland and testis, respectively, and 26,780 co-expressed unigenes. Analysis of co-expressed genes revealed that 12,647 genes were annotated to 11,484 Gene Ontology terms and 10,941 genes were annotated to 6120 pathways, including several pathways important in metabolic and synthetic activity. Next, 21 steroid hormone synthesis-related genes were screened from the transcriptome of the musk gland of 4-month-old FMD. The expression levels of three key genes of steroid hormone biosynthesis (CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and HSD3B) in the musk gland differed from their expression levels in the testis based on RT-qPCR. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry indicated that CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and HSD3B were localized in the glandular tubular columnar cells of the musk gland. These results suggested that the musk gland of male FMD has the potential to locally synthesize steroid hormone and thus plays a critically important role in musk secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Guofan Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Feng Shu
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Daqian Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xueli Zheng
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Chao Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Shaanxi Reed Musk Deer Industry Co., Ltd., Meixian, Shaanxi, 722307, China
| | - Chuanying Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Fangxia Yang
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Wuzi Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Biology Research Centre of Qin Mountains Wildlife, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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Turcu AF, Zhao L, Chen X, Yang R, Rege J, Rainey WE, Veldhuis JD, Auchus RJ. Circadian rhythms of 11-oxygenated C19 steroids and ∆5-steroid sulfates in healthy men. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 185:K1-K6. [PMID: 34324429 PMCID: PMC8826489 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many hormones display distinct circadian rhythms, driven by central regulators, hormonal bioavailability, and half-life. A set of 11-oxygenated C19 steroids (11-oxyandrogens) and pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) are elevated in congenital adrenal hyperplasia and other disorders, but their circadian patterns have not been characterized. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Peripheral blood was collected every 2 h over 24 h from healthy volunteer men (10 young, 18-30 years, and 10 older, 60-80 years). We used mass spectrometry to quantify 15 steroids, including androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), 11β-hydroxy- and 11-ketotestosterone (11OHT, 11KT),11β-hydroxy- and 11-ketoandrostenedione (11OHA4, 11KA4), and 4 ∆5-steroid sulfates. Diurnal models including mesor (rhythm adjusted median), peak, and nadir concentrations, acrophase, and amplitude were computed. RESULTS 11OHA4 followed a rhythm similar to cortisol: acrophase 8:00 h, nadir 21:00 h and were similar in young and old men. 11KT had similar diurnal patterns, but the peak was lower in older than in young men, as was the case for A4. All four steroid sulfates were higher in young vs older men. PregS and 17-hydroxypregnenolone sulfate (17OHPregS) showed sustained elevations between 8:00 and 18:00 h, and nadirs around midnight, while DHEAS and AdiolS displayed minimal diurnal variations. All 4 11-oxyandrogens correlated tightly with cortisol (r from 0.54 for 11OHT to 0.81 for 11OHA4, P < 0.0001 for all), but very weakly with T, supporting their adrenal origin and ACTH governance. CONCLUSIONS 11-Oxyandrogens, PregS, and 17OHPregS display distinct circadian and age variations, which should be accounted for when used as clinical biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lili Zhao
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Xuan Chen
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rebecca Yang
- Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Center for Translational Science Activities, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Juilee Rege
- Department of Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - William E Rainey
- Department of Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Johannes D Veldhuis
- Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Center for Translational Science Activities, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Snaterse G, van Dessel LF, van Riet J, Taylor AE, van der Vlugt-Daane M, Hamberg P, de Wit R, Visser JA, Arlt W, Lolkema MP, Hofland J. 11-Ketotestosterone is the predominant active androgen in prostate cancer patients after castration. JCI Insight 2021; 6:148507. [PMID: 33974560 PMCID: PMC8262344 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.148507] [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: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continued androgen receptor (AR) signaling constitutes a key target for treatment in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Studies have identified 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) as a potent AR agonist, but it is unknown if 11KT is present at physiologically relevant concentrations in patients with CRPC to drive AR activation. The goal of this study was to investigate the circulating steroid metabolome including all active androgens in patients with CRPC. METHODS Patients with metastatic CRPC (n = 29) starting a new line of systemic therapy were included. Sequential plasma samples were obtained for measurement of circulating steroid concentrations by multisteroid profiling employing liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Metastatic tumor biopsy samples were obtained at baseline and subjected to RNA sequencing. RESULTS 11KT was the most abundant circulating active androgen in 97% of patients with CRPC (median 0.39 nmol/L, range: 0.03–2.39 nmol/L), constituting 60% (IQR 43%–79%) of the total active androgen (TA) pool. Treatment with glucocorticoids reduced 11KT by 84% (49%–89%) and testosterone by 68% (38%–79%). Circulating TA concentrations at baseline were associated with a distinct intratumor gene expression signature comprising AR-regulated genes. CONCLUSION The potent AR agonist 11KT is the predominant circulating active androgen in patients with CRPC and, therefore, one of the potential drivers of AR activation in CRPC. Assessment of androgen status should be extended to include 11KT, as current clinical approaches likely underestimate androgen abundance in patients with CRPC. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register: NL5625 (NTR5732). FUNDING Daniel den Hoed Foundation and Wellcome Trust (Investigator Award WT209492/Z/17/Z).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gido Snaterse
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lisanne F van Dessel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Job van Riet
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paul Hamberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ronald de Wit
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jenny A Visser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martijn P Lolkema
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Johannes Hofland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Hou Z, Yang T, Mei Z, Zhang S, Gao Y, Chen X, Tan Q, Zhu X, Xu C, Lian J, Bian C, Liu Y, Le W, Hydyr N, Wu D, Chen L, Huang S, Li Z. Tracing steroidogenesis in prostate biopsy samples to unveil prostate tissue androgen metabolism characteristics and potential clinical application. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 210:105859. [PMID: 33677016 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are essential for prostate cancer development. However, steroidogenesis has mainly been investigated in a limited number of prostate cancer cell lines, leading to varied conclusions and elusive clinical significance. Here, we established an ex vivo research platform with fresh biopsy samples transiently cultured with tritium- labelled androgens to trace steroidogenesis in prostate tissues and investigate its potential clinical application. DHEA was confirmed as the major precursor for androgen synthesis in the prostate. Significant amounts of oxidized DHEA and 5α-androstanedione were generated from DHEA in prostate biopsy samples. Prostatic steroidogenesis was independent of other clinical factors. Furthermore, prostatic steroidogenesis was suppressed after androgen deprivation therapy but increased upon treatment resistance, indicating that prostatic steroidogenesis was affected by clinical treatments. Overall, we provide an accessible research platform to characterize steroidogenesis in prostate tissue and indicate the correlation between prostatic steroidogenesis and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zemin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Zejie Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Si Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Qilong Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xuyou Zhu
- Department of pathology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Chengdang Xu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Jianpo Lian
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Cuidong Bian
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Wei Le
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Nazarov Hydyr
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Denglong Wu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Luonan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Shengsong Huang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| | - Zhenfei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Caron P, Turcotte V, Guillemette C. A quantitative analysis of total and free 11-oxygenated androgens and its application to human serum and plasma specimens using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1650:462228. [PMID: 34090133 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.462228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive 11-oxygenated C19 adrenal-derived steroids (11-oxy C19) are potentially relevant in diverse endocrine and metabolic contexts. We report the development and validation of a liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric method (LC-ESI-MS/MS) for the simultaneous quantification of seven 11-oxy C19 using 200 µL of plasma or serum. Sample preparation involved chemical derivatization using hydroxylamine after liquid-liquid extraction to improve specificity and sensitivity. The method allowed the quantitation of total 11-oxy C19 (free + sulfate and glucuronide conjugates) following enzymatic hydrolysis. This included the abundant precursor 11-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4) and the most potent androgenic derivatives 11-keto-testosterone (11KT) and 11-keto-dihydrotestosterone (11KDHT), their abundant metabolites 11-hydroxyandrosterone (11OHAST) and 11-keto-androsterone (11KAST) potentially feeding back into the pool of potent androgens, in addition to 11-keto-androstenedione (11KA4) and 11-hydroxytestosterone (11OHT). Stable isotopes were used as internal standards, and calibrators and quality controls were prepared in the same matrix as the study samples. Performance was validated against the Food and Drug Administration Criteria. The method was sensitive with lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) values of 10 and 20 pg/mL for free and total 11-oxy C19, respectively. The applicability was demonstrated in men and women adult donors that showed sex-differences. All steroids were quantified well above LLOQ, except 11KDHT that remained undetectable suggesting interfering endogenous molecules present in non-derivatized samples in which a peak was observed. By providing accurate and reliable quantitative data, this method will permit to evaluate how profiling of 11-oxy C19 will be most informative as diagnostic, prognostic and/or theranostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Caron
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Turcotte
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Guillemette
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada; Canada Research Chair in Pharmacogenomics, Canada.
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Ostinelli G, Vijay J, Vohl MC, Grundberg E, Tchernof A. AKR1C2 and AKR1C3 expression in adipose tissue: Association with body fat distribution and regulatory variants. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 527:111220. [PMID: 33675863 PMCID: PMC8052191 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changes in androgen dynamics within adipose tissue have been proposed as modulators of body fat accumulation. In this context, AKR1C2 likely plays a significant role by inactivating 5α-dihydrotestosterone. AIM To characterize AKR1C2 expression patterns across adipose depots and cell populations and to provide insight into the link with body fat distribution and genetic regulation. METHODS We used RNA sequencing data from severely obese patients to assess patterns of AKR1C2 and AKR1C3 expression in abdominal adipose tissue depots and cell fractions. We additionally used data from 856 women to assess AKR1C2 heritability and to link its expression in adipose tissue with body fat distribution. Further, we used public resources to study AKR1C2 genetic regulation as well as reference epigenome data for regulatory element profiling and functional interpretation of genetic data. RESULTS We found that mature adipocytes and adipocyte-committed adipocyte progenitor cells (APCs) had enriched expression of AKR1C2. We found adipose tissue AKR1C2 and AKR1C3 expression to be significantly and positively associated with percentage trunk fat mass in women. We identified strong genetic regulation of AKR1C2 by rs28571848 and rs34477787 located on the binding sites of two nuclear transcription factors, namely retinoid acid-related orphan receptor alpha and the glucocorticoid receptor. CONCLUSION We confirm the link between AKR1C2, adipogenic differentiation and adipose tissue distribution. We provide insight into genetic regulation of AKR1C2 by identifying regulatory variants mapping to binding sites for the glucocorticoid receptor and retinoid acid-related orphan receptor alpha which may in part mediate the effect of AKR1C2 expression on body fat distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Ostinelli
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et Pneumologie de Québec-Université Laval, 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, G1V 4G5, Québec City, Québec, Canada; École de Nutrition, Université Laval, 2425 Rue de l'Agriculture, G1V 0A6, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Jinchu Vijay
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Vohl
- École de Nutrition, Université Laval, 2425 Rue de l'Agriculture, G1V 0A6, Québec City, Québec, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Societé (NUTRISS)-Insitut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnells (INAF), Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Elin Grundberg
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; Children's Mercy Research Institute, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
| | - Andre Tchernof
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et Pneumologie de Québec-Université Laval, 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, G1V 4G5, Québec City, Québec, Canada; École de Nutrition, Université Laval, 2425 Rue de l'Agriculture, G1V 0A6, Québec City, Québec, Canada.
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Ly LK, Doden HL, Ridlon JM. Gut feelings about bacterial steroid-17,20-desmolase. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111174. [PMID: 33503463 PMCID: PMC8886824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Advances in technology are only beginning to reveal the complex interactions between hosts and their resident microbiota that have co-evolved over centuries. In this review, we present compelling evidence that implicates the host-associated microbiome in the generation of 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione, leading to the formation of potent 11-oxy-androgens. Microbial steroid-17,20-desmolase cleaves the side-chain of glucocorticoids (GC), including cortisol (and its derivatives of cortisone, 5α-dihydrocortisol, and also (allo)- 3α, 5α-tetrahydrocortisol, but not 3α-5β-tetrahydrocortisol) and drugs (prednisone and dexamethasone). In addition to side-chain cleavage, we discuss the gut microbiome's robust potential to transform a myriad of steroids, mirroring much of the host's metabolism. We also explore the overlooked role of intestinal steroidogenesis and efflux pumps as a potential route for GC transport into the gut. Lastly, we propose several health implications from microbial steroid-17,20-desmolase function, including aberrant mineralocorticoid, GC, and androgen receptor signaling in colonocytes, immune cells, and prostate cells, which may exacerbate disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey K Ly
- Microbiome Metabolic Engineering Theme, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Heidi L Doden
- Microbiome Metabolic Engineering Theme, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jason M Ridlon
- Microbiome Metabolic Engineering Theme, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA.
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40
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Barnard L, du Toit T, Swart AC. Back where it belongs: 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione compels the re-assessment of C11-oxy androgens in steroidogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111189. [PMID: 33539964 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal steroidogenesis has, for decades, been depicted as three biosynthesis pathways -the mineralocorticoid, glucocorticoid and androgen pathways with aldosterone, cortisol and androstenedione as the respective end products. 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione was not included as an adrenal steroid despite the adrenal output of this steroid being twice that of androstenedione. While it is the end of the line for aldosterone and cortisol, as it is in these forms that they exhibit their most potent receptor activities prior to inactivation and conjugation, 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione is another matter entirely. The steroid, which is weakly androgenic, has its own designated pathway yielding 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone and the potent androgens, 11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone, primarily in the periphery. Over the last decade, these C11-oxy C19 steroids have once again come to the fore with the rising number of studies contradicting the generally accepted notion that testosterone and it's 5α-reduced product, dihydrotestosterone, are the principal potent androgens in humans. These C11-oxy androgens have been shown to contribute to the androgen milieu in adrenal disorders associated with androgen excess and in androgen dependant disease progression. In this review, we will highlight these overlooked C11-oxy C19 steroids as well as the C11-oxy C21 steroids and their contribution to congenital adrenal hyperplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome and prostate cancer. The focus is on new findings over the past decade which are slowly but surely reshaping our current outlook on human sex steroid biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barnard
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Amanda C Swart
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa; Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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Barnard L, Schiffer L, Louw du-Toit R, Tamblyn JA, Chen S, Africander D, Arlt W, Foster PA, Storbeck KH. 11-Oxygenated Estrogens Are a Novel Class of Human Estrogens but Do not Contribute to the Circulating Estrogen Pool. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6042237. [PMID: 33340399 PMCID: PMC7814299 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are the obligatory precursors of estrogens. In humans, classic androgen biosynthesis yields testosterone, thought to represent the predominant circulating active androgen both in men and women. However, recent work has shown that 11-ketotestosterone, derived from the newly described 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis pathway, makes a substantial contribution to the active androgen pool in women. Considering that classic androgens are the obligatory substrates for estrogen biosynthesis catalyzed by cytochrome P450 aromatase, we hypothesized that 11-oxygenated androgens are aromatizable. Here we use steroid analysis by tandem mass spectrometry to demonstrate that human aromatase generates 11-oxygenated estrogens from 11-oxygenated androgens in 3 different cell-based aromatase expression systems and in human ex vivo placenta explant cultures. We also show that 11-oxygenated estrogens are generated as a byproduct of the aromatization of classic androgens. We show that 11β-hydroxy-17β-estradiol binds and activates estrogen receptors α and β and that 11β-hydroxy-17β-estradiol and the classic androgen pathway-derived active estrogen, 17β-estradiol, are equipotent in stimulating breast cancer cell line proliferation and expression of estrogen-responsive genes. 11-oxygenated estrogens were, however, not detectable in serum from individuals with high aromatase levels (pregnant women) and elevated 11-oxygenated androgen levels (patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenocortical carcinoma). Our data show that while 11-oxygenated androgens are aromatizable in vitro and ex vivo, the resulting 11-oxygenated estrogens are not detectable in circulation, suggesting that 11-oxygenated androgens function primarily as androgens in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barnard
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Renate Louw du-Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Jennifer A Tamblyn
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Women’s & Newborn Health, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham Women’s & Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shiuan Chen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California USA
| | - Donita Africander
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul A Foster
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Correspondence: Karl-Heinz Storbeck, PhD, Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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Jha S, Turcu AF. Nonclassic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: What Do Endocrinologists Need to Know? Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2021; 50:151-165. [PMID: 33518183 PMCID: PMC7863575 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia encompasses a group of autosomal recessive defects in cortisol biosynthesis, and 21-hydroxylase deficiency accounts for 95% of such cases. Non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency is due to partial enzymatic defects, which present with normal cortisol synthesis, but excessive production of adrenal androgens, including 11-oxygenated androgens. Non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency is relatively common, and its phenotype resembles closely that of polycystic ovary syndrome. This review focuses primarily on non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency, its clinical features, diagnosis, and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Jha
- Section on Congenital Disorders, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 9000 Rockville Pike, Room 9C432A, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. https://twitter.com/docsmita_jha
| | - Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, 1150 West Medical Center Drive, MSRB II, 5570B, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Schiffer L, Bossey A, Kempegowda P, Taylor AE, Akerman I, Scheel-Toellner D, Storbeck KH, Arlt W. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells preferentially activate 11-oxygenated androgens. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 184:353-363. [PMID: 33444228 PMCID: PMC7923147 DOI: 10.1530/eje-20-1077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Androgens are important modulators of immune cell function. The local generation of active androgens from circulating precursors is an important mediator of androgen action in peripheral target cells or tissues. We aimed to characterize the activation of classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). METHODS PBMCs were isolated from healthy male donors and incubated ex vivo with precursors and active androgens of the classic and 11-oxygenated androgen pathways. Steroids were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The expression of genes encoding steroid-metabolizing enzymes was assessed by quantitative PCR. RESULTS PBMCs generated eight-fold higher amounts of the active 11-oxygenated androgen 11-ketotestosterone than the classic androgen testosterone from their respective precursors. We identified the enzyme AKR1C3 as the major reductive 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in PBMCs responsible for both conversions and found that within the PBMC compartment natural killer cells are the major site of AKRC13 expression and activity. Steroid 5α-reductase type 1 catalyzed the 5α-reduction of classic but not 11-oxygenated androgens in PBMCs. Lag time prior to the separation of cellular components from whole blood increased serum 11-ketotestosterone concentrations in a time-dependent fashion, with significant increases detected from two hours after blood collection. CONCLUSIONS 11-Oxygenated androgens are the preferred substrates for androgen activation by AKR1C3 in PBMCs, primarily conveyed by natural killer cell AKR1C3 activity, yielding 11-ketotestosterone the major active androgen in PBMCs. Androgen metabolism by PBMCs can affect the results of serum 11-ketotestosterone measurements, if samples are not separated in a timely fashion. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We show that human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) preferentially activate 11-ketotestosterone rather than testosterone when incubated with precursors of both the classic and the adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis pathways. We demonstrate that this activity is catalyzed by the enzyme AKR1C3, which we found to primarily reside in natural killer cells, major contributors to the anti-viral immune defense. This potentially links intracrine 11-oxygenated androgen generation to the previously observed decreased NK cell cytotoxicity and increased infection risk in primary adrenal insufficiency. In addition, we show that PBMCs continue to generate 11-ketotestosterone if the cellular component of whole blood samples is not removed in a timely fashion, which could affect measurements of this active androgen in routine clinical biochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alicia Bossey
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Punith Kempegowda
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ildem Akerman
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to W Arlt;
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Microbial Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases: From Alpha to Omega. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030469. [PMID: 33668351 PMCID: PMC7996314 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BAs) and glucocorticoids are steroid hormones derived from cholesterol that are important signaling molecules in humans and other vertebrates. Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSDHs) are encoded both by the host and by their resident gut microbiota, and they reversibly convert steroid hydroxyl groups to keto groups. Pairs of HSDHs can reversibly epimerize steroids from α-hydroxy conformations to β-hydroxy, or β-hydroxy to ω-hydroxy in the case of ω-muricholic acid. These reactions often result in products with drastically different physicochemical properties than their precursors, which can result in steroids being activators or inhibitors of host receptors, can affect solubility in fecal water, and can modulate toxicity. Microbial HSDHs modulate sterols associated with diseases such as colorectal cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Although the role of microbial HSDHs is not yet fully elucidated, they may have therapeutic potential as steroid pool modulators or druggable targets in the future. In this review, we explore metabolism of BAs and glucocorticoids with a focus on biotransformation by microbial HSDHs.
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Determination of Intraprostatic and Intratesticular Androgens. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010466. [PMID: 33466491 PMCID: PMC7796479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens represent the main hormones responsible for maintaining hormonal balance and function in the prostate and testis. As they are involved in prostate and testicular carcinogenesis, more detailed information of their active concentration at the site of action is required. Since the introduction of the term intracrinology as the local formation of active steroid hormones from inactive precursors of the adrenal gland, mainly dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-S, it is evident that blood circulating levels of sex steroid hormones need not reflect their actual concentrations in the tissue. Here, we review and critically evaluate available methods for the analysis of human intraprostatic and intratesticular steroid concentrations. Since analytical approaches have much in common in both tissues, we discuss them together. Preanalytical steps, including various techniques for separation of the analytes, are compared, followed by the end-point measurement. Advantages and disadvantages of chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS, GC-MS), immunoanalytical methods (IA), and hybrid (LC-IA) are discussed. Finally, the clinical information value of the determined steroid hormones is evaluated concerning differentiating between patients with cancer or benign hyperplasia and between patients with different degrees of infertility. Adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens are mentioned as perspective prognostic markers for these purposes.
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Rohayem J, Zitzmann M, Laurentino S, Kliesch S, Nieschlag E, Holterhus PM, Kulle A. The role of gonadotropins in testicular and adrenal androgen biosynthesis pathways-Insights from males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism on hCG/rFSH and on testosterone replacement. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 94:90-101. [PMID: 32871622 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To delineate the role of gonadotropins in male androgen biosynthesis pathways. DESIGN Case-control study. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS Twenty five males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) underwent hCG/rFSH and testosterone treatment sequentially. Serum steroid hormone profiles (testosterone precursors and metabolites) on both replacement regimens were analysed, using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and compared to those of healthy controls, matched by age, BMI and serum testosterone. RESULTS On testosterone replacement, serum concentrations of the classic Δ4 pathway hormones progesterone and 17-hydroxy-progesterone (17-OHP), and the marker steroid of an alternative pathway of testosterone synthesis (androstenediol) were decreased, compared to controls. Androstanediol, a marker of the backdoor pathway of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis, was increased. 17-OH-pregnenolone, androstenedione and DHEAS (Δ5 pathway), three 11-oxygenated C19 androgens (11-keto-A4, 11-keto-T and 11-keto-DHT) and the testosterone (T) metabolites DHT and 17ß-oestradiol (E2) were similar to controls. On gonadotropin replacement, 17-OHP, 17-OH-pregnenolone, DHEAS and androstenedione, as well as DHT, androstenediol, and all 11-oxygenated C19 androgens were normal. Progesterone (Δ4 pathway) was slightly decreased, and androstanediol (backdoor DHT pathway) and E2 (T metabolite) were increased. CONCLUSIONS In males with CHH, serum steroid hormone profiles resemble those of healthy men, if hCG/rFSH is used for substitution. Gonadotropins contribute to steroid hormone production along the classic Δ4 pathway and co-activate an alternative pathway of testosterone biosynthesis via androstenediol. Backdoor DHT biosynthesis, Δ5 17-OH-pregnenolone, DHEA(S) and androstenedione synthesis and 11-oxygenated C19 androgen production are activated independently of gonadotropins. The androgen replacement modality used for treatment of hypogonadal males with absent or reduced endogenous LH/FSH secretion may impact on long-term health and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rohayem
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Michael Zitzmann
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Eberhard Nieschlag
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Paul-Martin Holterhus
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital Kiel, University of Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Alexandra Kulle
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital Kiel, University of Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
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Jha S, Turcu AF, Sinaii N, Brookner B, Auchus RJ, Merke DP. 11-Oxygenated Androgens Useful in the Setting of Discrepant Conventional Biomarkers in 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency. J Endocr Soc 2020; 5:bvaa192. [PMID: 33447690 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) and androstenedione (A4) are the conventional biomarkers used to assess disease control in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD). However, discrepancy between the two is not uncommon, limiting interpretation. Objective To evaluate 11-oxyandrogens in discriminating good versus poor disease control in 21OHD in the setting of discrepant 17OHP and A4. Methods Retrospective analysis of 2738 laboratory assessments obtained as part of Natural History Study of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) at the National Institutes Health Clinical Center. Patients with discrepant 17OHP and A4 and available sera were selected. A 15-steroid mass-spectrometry panel was performed in sera from patients with 21OHD and age- and sex-matched controls. Patients were categorized in "good" or "poor" control based on clinical assessment (bone age advancement, signs and symptoms of precocious puberty, menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, or hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism). Results Discrepant 17OHP and A4 was found in 469 (17%) laboratory assessments. Of these, 403 (86%) had elevated 17OHP with A4 in reference range. Of 46 patients with available sera, 30 (65%) were in good control. Median fold elevation relative to controls was higher in patients with poor versus good control for 11-hydroxytestosterone (median [interquartile range], 2.82 [1.25-5.43] vs 0.91 [0.49- 2.07], P = .003), and 11-ketotestosterone (3.57 [2.11-7.41] vs 1.76 [1.24-4.00], P = .047). Fold elevation of 11-hydroxytestosterone between 3.48 (sensitivity 97%, specificity 47%) and 3.88 (sensitivity 100%, specificity 40%) provided the best discrimination between poor vs good control. Conclusion 11-Oxyandrogens, especially 11-hydroxytestosterone, may be useful in the management of CAH when conventional biomarkers are inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Jha
- Section on Congenital Disorders, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ninet Sinaii
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Service, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Brittany Brookner
- Section on Congenital Disorders, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Deborah P Merke
- Section on Congenital Disorders, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Penning TM, Asangani IA, Sprenger C, Plymate S. Intracrine androgen biosynthesis and drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2020; 3:912-929. [PMID: 35582223 PMCID: PMC8992556 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2020.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer is the lethal form of prostate cancer and most commonly remains dependent on androgen receptor (AR) signaling. Current therapies use AR signaling inhibitors (ARSI) exemplified by abiraterone acetate, a P450c17 inhibitor, and enzalutamide, a potent AR antagonist. However, drug resistance to these agents occurs within 12-18 months and they only prolong overall survival by 3-4 months. Multiple mechanisms can contribute to ARSI drug resistance. These mechanisms can include but are not limited to germline mutations in the AR, post-transcriptional alterations in AR structure, and adaptive expression of genes involved in the intracrine biosynthesis and metabolism of androgens within the tumor. This review focuses on intracrine androgen biosynthesis, how this can contribute to ARSI drug resistance, and therapeutic strategies that can be used to surmount these resistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor M. Penning
- Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Irfan A. Asangani
- Department Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Cynthia Sprenger
- Division of Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Stephen Plymate
- Division of Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
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Is Idiopathic Hirsutism Truly Idiopathic? J Obstet Gynaecol India 2020; 70:366-370. [PMID: 33041554 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-020-01324-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine whether other androgens [androstenedione (A4), 17-hydroxy progesterone (17OHP) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)] were elevated in women with classically defined idiopathic hirsutism (IH)/patient-important hirsutism (PIH). Study Design Retrospective analysis. Setting Outpatient endocrine department of a tertiary care hospital. Patients In total, 30 consecutive women with IH/PIH were included. IH/PIH was defined as presentation with hirsutism with normal menstrual cycles (25-35 days), normal total (< 45 ng/dL) and free T (fT) (< 0.6 ng/dL) and normal ovaries sonologically (transabdominal ultrasonogram ovarian volume < 10 cm3) without any other signs of virilization. Clinical and biochemical details were collected and analyzed. Androgens were measured by LC-MS/MS. A4 ≥ 2.5 ng/mL, DHEA ≥ 15 (age < 18) or ≥ 11.8 (age ≥ 18) ng/mL, DHEAS ≥ 2847 ng/mL or 17OHP ≥ 2 ng/mL were considered high. Results With the mean age of 22 years and mean BMI of 25 kg/m2, 12/30 (40%) had IH and remaining PIH. DHEA alone was elevated in 60% and A4 alone in 33%. Overall, 23/30 (73%) had any one elevated androgen with normal total and free testosterone. There was no correlation with modified Ferriman-Gallwey score, and there was no significant difference in androgens between IH and PIH. Conclusion A high proportion of women with classically defined IH/PIH have elevated DHEA and/or A4. Though on pharmacotherapy basis, there would be no change in management, the role of hyperandrogenemia detected by sensitive assays on metabolic functions and cardiovascular risk has to be studied.
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Stárka L, Dušková M, Vítků J. 11-Keto-testosterone and other androgens of adrenal origin. Physiol Res 2020; 69:S187-S192. [PMID: 33094617 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal glands produce significant amounts of steroid hormones and their metabolites, with various levels of androgenic activities. Until recently, the androgenic potency of these adrenal-derived compounds were not well known, but some recent studies have shown that the production of 11-oxo- and 11beta-hydroxy-derived testosterone and dihydrotestosterone evidently have high androgenic activity. This fact has clinical importance, for instance, in various types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia with androgenization or polycystic ovarian syndrome, and laboratory determinations of these substances could help to better evaluate the total androgen pressure in patients with these disorders. Another area of concern is the treatment of prostate cancer with androgen deprivation, which loses effectiveness after a certain time. The concurrent blocking of the secretion of adrenal C(19)-steroids, whether using corticoids or adrenostatics, could increase the effectiveness of androgen-deprivation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Stárka
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
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