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Xu C, Han D, Song X, Zhang X, Liu C, Zhang J, Shen B, Li Z, Ma R, Li Y, Xin Y, Ji W, Zhang L, Wang X, Hu C, Li X. The possibly role of GnIH in stress and gut dysfunction in chicken. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103757. [PMID: 38697006 PMCID: PMC11070904 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103757] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress is known to disrupt the intestinal barrier and induce intestinal dysfunction. A critical role for gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH) in stress has emerged. However, whether GnIH mediates stress-induced intestinal dysfunction remains unknown. The present study explored this question through in vivo and in vitro experiments in hens. Our in vivo experiments showed that continuous intraperitoneal injection of GnIH not only significantly increased the concentration of stress hormones in serum, but also significantly elevated the mRNA expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the duodenum and jejunum. Moreover, morphological and molecular analyses revealed that GnIH disrupted the physical and chemical barriers of the intestine and dramatically increased inflammatory factor levels in the intestine and serum of hens. Interestingly, the microbiomics results showed that GnIH altered the structure and composition of the gut flora in the cecum, revealing an increased abundance of harmful intestinal bacteria such as Desulfovibrionaceae. Similar results were found in in vitro studies in which the GnIH-induced intestinal mucosal barrier was disrupted, and inflammation increased in jejunal explants, although no significant difference was found in the expression of GR between the control and GnIH groups. Our results demonstrated that GnIH not only directly damaged intestinal barriers and elevated intestinal inflammation but also mediated stress and microflora imbalance-induced intestinal function disorder, suggesting that GnIH is a potential therapeutic target for gut dysfunction, stress-induced intestinal function disorder, and inflammatory bowel disease in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changlin Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Dongyang Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Xingxing Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Chengcheng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Jiani Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Bingqian Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Zixin Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Runwen Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Yinan Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Wantong Ji
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Lingyuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Xiaoye Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Chuanhuo Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China
| | - Xun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Breeding and Disease Control; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning, RP 530004, China.
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Jin S, Guo S, Xu Y, Li X, Wu C, He X, Pan B, Xin W, Zhang H, Hu W, Yin Y, Zhang T, Wu K, Yuan Q, Xu HE, Xie X, Jiang Y. Structural basis for recognition of 26RFa by the pyroglutamylated RFamide peptide receptor. Cell Discov 2024; 10:58. [PMID: 38830850 PMCID: PMC11148045 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-024-00670-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide 26RFa, a member of the RF-amide peptide family, activates the pyroglutamylated RF-amide peptide receptor (QRFPR), a class A GPCR. The 26RFa/QRFPR system plays critical roles in energy homeostasis, making QRFPR an attractive drug target for treating obesity, diabetes, and eating disorders. However, the lack of structural information has hindered our understanding of the peptide recognition and regulatory mechanism of QRFPR, impeding drug design efforts. In this study, we determined the cryo-EM structure of the Gq-coupled QRFPR bound to 26RFa. The structure reveals a unique assembly mode of the extracellular region of the receptor and the N-terminus of the peptide, and elucidates the recognition mechanism of the C-terminal heptapeptide of 26RFa by the transmembrane binding pocket of QRFPR. The study also clarifies the similarities and distinctions in the binding pattern of the RF-amide moiety in five RF-amide peptides and the RY-amide segment in neuropeptide Y. These findings deepen our understanding of the RF-amide peptide recognition, aiding in the rational design of drugs targeting QRFPR and other RF-amide peptide receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shimeng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Canrong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinheng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Wenwen Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Tianwei Zhang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingning Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, China.
| | - Yi Jiang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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Vastagh C, Farkas I, Csillag V, Watanabe M, Kalló I, Liposits Z. Cholinergic Control of GnRH Neuron Physiology and Luteinizing Hormone Secretion in Male Mice: Involvement of ACh/GABA Cotransmission. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1780232024. [PMID: 38320853 PMCID: PMC10957212 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1780-23.2024] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-synthesizing neurons orchestrate reproduction centrally. Early studies have proposed the contribution of acetylcholine (ACh) to hypothalamic control of reproduction, although the causal mechanisms have not been clarified. Here, we report that in vivo pharmacogenetic activation of the cholinergic system increased the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) in orchidectomized mice. 3DISCO immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy revealed the innervation of GnRH neurons by cholinergic axons. Retrograde viral labeling initiated from GnRH-Cre neurons identified the medial septum and the diagonal band of Broca as exclusive sites of origin for cholinergic afferents of GnRH neurons. In acute brain slices, ACh and carbachol evoked a biphasic effect on the firing rate in GnRH neurons, first increasing and then diminishing it. In the presence of tetrodotoxin, carbachol induced an inward current, followed by a decline in the frequency of miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs), indicating a direct influence on GnRH cells. RT-PCR and whole-cell patch-clamp studies revealed that GnRH neurons expressed both nicotinic (α4β2, α3β4, and α7) and muscarinic (M1-M5) AChRs. The nicotinic AChRs contributed to the nicotine-elicited inward current and the rise in firing rate. Muscarine via M1 and M3 receptors increased, while via M2 and M4 reduced the frequency of both mPSCs and firing. Optogenetic activation of channelrhodopsin-2-tagged cholinergic axons modified GnRH neuronal activity and evoked cotransmission of ACh and GABA from a subpopulation of boutons. These findings confirm that the central cholinergic system regulates GnRH neurons and activates the pituitary-gonadal axis via ACh and ACh/GABA neurotransmissions in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Veronika Csillag
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Imre Kalló
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
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Evans MC, Anderson GM. The Role of RFRP Neurons in the Allostatic Control of Reproductive Function. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15851. [PMID: 37958834 PMCID: PMC10648169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115851] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive function is critical for species survival; however, it is energetically costly and physically demanding. Reproductive suppression is therefore a physiologically appropriate adaptation to certain ecological, environmental, and/or temporal conditions. This 'allostatic' suppression of fertility enables individuals to accommodate unfavorable reproductive circumstances and safeguard survival. The mechanisms underpinning this reproductive suppression are complex, yet culminate with the reduced secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn suppresses gonadotropin release from the pituitary, thereby impairing gonadal function. The focus of this review will be on the role of RFamide-related peptide (RFRP) neurons in different examples of allostatic reproductive suppression. RFRP neurons release the RFRP-3 peptide, which negatively regulates GnRH neurons and thus appears to act as a 'brake' on the neuroendocrine reproductive axis. In a multitude of predictable (e.g., pre-puberty, reproductive senescence, and seasonal or lactational reproductive quiescence) and unpredictable (e.g., metabolic, immune and/or psychosocial stress) situations in which GnRH secretion is suppressed, the RFRP neurons have been suggested to act as modulators. This review examines evidence for and against these roles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Greg M. Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand;
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Mo L, Ma J, Xiong Y, Xiong X, Lan D, Li J, Yin S. Factors Influencing the Maturation and Developmental Competence of Yak ( Bos grunniens) Oocytes In Vitro. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1882. [PMID: 37895231 PMCID: PMC10606142 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101882] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The yak (Bos grunniens) is a unique breed living on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and its surrounding areas, providing locals with a variety of vital means of living and production. However, the yak has poor sexual maturity and low fertility. High-quality mature oocytes are the basis of animal breeding technology. Recently, in vitro culturing of oocytes and embryo engineering technology have been applied to yak breeding. However, compared to those observed in vivo, the maturation rate and developmental capacity of in vitro oocytes are still low, which severely limits the application of in vitro fertilization and embryo production in yaks. This review summarizes the endogenous and exogenous factors affecting the in vitro maturation (IVM) and developmental ability of yak oocytes reported in recent years and provides a theoretical basis for obtaining high-quality oocytes for in vitro fertilization and embryo production in yaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoyu Mo
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Yan Xiong
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xianrong Xiong
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Daoliang Lan
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shi Yin
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Carrasco RA, Breen KM. Allostasis in Neuroendocrine Systems Controlling Reproduction. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad125. [PMID: 37586095 PMCID: PMC10461221 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad125] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Allostasis provides a supporting role to the homeostatic control of biological variables in mammalian species. While the concept of homeostasis is related to the control of variables within a set point or range that are essential to life, allostasis refers to systems that facilitate adaptation to challenges that the organism faces and the new requirements for survival. Essential for such adaptation is the role played by the brain in eliciting neural and neuroendocrine responses. Reproductive function is fundamental for the survival of species but is costly in energetic terms and requires a synchrony with an ever-changing environment. Thus, in many species reproductive function is blocked or delayed over immediate challenges. This review will cover the physiological systems and neuroendocrine pathways that supply allostatic control over reproductive neuroendocrine systems. Light, hypoxia, temperature, nutrition, psychosocial, and immune mediators influence the neuroendocrine control of reproductive functions through pathways that are confluent at the paraventricular nucleus; however, understanding of the integrative responses to these stimuli has not been clarified. Likely, the ultimate consequence of these allostatic mechanisms is the modification of kisspeptin and gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal activity, thus compromising reproduction function in the short term, while preserving species survivability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo A Carrasco
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, USA
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, USA
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Piet R. Circadian and kisspeptin regulation of the preovulatory surge. Peptides 2023; 163:170981. [PMID: 36842628 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Fertility in mammals is ultimately controlled by a small population of neurons - the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons - located in the ventral forebrain. GnRH neurons control gonadal function through the release of GnRH, which in turn stimulates the secretion of the anterior pituitary gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). In spontaneous ovulators, ovarian follicle maturation eventually stimulates, via sex steroid feedback, the mid-cycle surge in GnRH and LH secretion that causes ovulation. The GnRH/LH surge is initiated in many species just before the onset of activity through processes controlled by the central circadian clock, ensuring that the neuroendocrine control of ovulation and sex behavior are coordinated. This review aims to give an overview of anatomical and functional studies that collectively reveal some of the mechanisms through which the central circadian clock regulates GnRH neurons and their afferent circuits to drive the preovulatory surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Piet
- Brain Health Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States.
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8
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Kreisman MJ, McCosh RB, Breen KM. A Modified Ultra-Sensitive ELISA for Measurement of LH in Mice. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6649011. [PMID: 35869782 PMCID: PMC9337274 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
A major obstacle to monitoring pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in mice has been an assay with sufficient sensitivity in small blood volumes. In 2013, Steyn and colleagues published a highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that overcame this barrier by coupling a duo of LH antibodies effective in accurately measuring LH in 4-µL whole-blood aliquots. To address the unavailability of the original detection antibody, AFP240580Rb, we validated a replacement detection antibody, biotinylated-5303 SPRN-5, to be used within the established ELISA. This modified LH ELISA demonstrated a minimum detection limit of 0.0028 ng/mL and a limit of quantification of 0.0333 ng/mL or 0.0666 ng/mL in diluted whole-blood samples of volume 6.4 µL (1:10) or 3.2 µL (1:20), respectively. Detection antibody 5303 SPRN-5 demonstrated parallelism, high precision, and accuracy across the standard curve. LH concentrations in comparison assays, using either 5303 SPRN-5 or AFP240580Rb, were highly correlated (R2 = 0.9829) and demonstrated LH pulse profiles from gonadectomized mice that were nearly superimposable. Pulsatile LH secretion was demonstrated in gonad-intact males and diestrous females and basal LH levels measured with 5303 SPRN-5 were approximately 5-fold higher than the limit of quantification. In addition, we document utility of this new LH ELISA to accurately measure LH in whole blood or serum across multiple sampling sites, as well as in pituitary extracts, LβT2 cells, or media. In summary, the modified LH ELISA described here is highly effective in measuring LH across a range of sample types and small volumes in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Kreisman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | - Richard B McCosh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Correspondence: Kellie M. Breen Church, PhD, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, MC 0674, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, USA.
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Kauffman AS. Neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying estrogen positive feedback and the LH surge. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:953252. [PMID: 35968365 PMCID: PMC9364933 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.953252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A fundamental principle in reproductive neuroendocrinology is sex steroid feedback: steroid hormones secreted by the gonads circulate back to the brain to regulate the neural circuits governing the reproductive neuroendocrine axis. These regulatory feedback loops ultimately act to modulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, thereby affecting gonadotropin secretion from the anterior pituitary. In females, rising estradiol (E2) during the middle of the menstrual (or estrous) cycle paradoxically "switch" from being inhibitory on GnRH secretion ("negative feedback") to stimulating GnRH release ("positive feedback"), resulting in a surge in GnRH secretion and a downstream LH surge that triggers ovulation. While upstream neural afferents of GnRH neurons, including kisspeptin neurons in the rostral hypothalamus, are proposed as critical loci of E2 feedback action, the underlying mechanisms governing the shift between E2 negative and positive feedback are still poorly understood. Indeed, the precise cell targets, neural signaling factors and receptors, hormonal pathways, and molecular mechanisms by which ovarian-derived E2 indirectly stimulates GnRH surge secretion remain incompletely known. In many species, there is also a circadian component to the LH surge, restricting its occurrence to specific times of day, but how the circadian clock interacts with endocrine signals to ultimately time LH surge generation also remains a major gap in knowledge. Here, we focus on classic and recent data from rodent models and discuss the consensus knowledge of the neural players, including kisspeptin, the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and glia, as well as endocrine players, including estradiol and progesterone, in the complex regulation and generation of E2-induced LH surges in females.
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McCosh RB, O'Bryne KT, Karsch FJ, Breen KM. Regulation of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuron during stress. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13098. [PMID: 35128742 PMCID: PMC9232848 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The effect of stress on reproduction and gonadal function has captivated investigators for almost 100 years. Following the identification of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) 50 years ago, a niche research field emerged fixated on how stress impairs this central node controlling downstream pituitary and gonadal function. It is now clear that both episodic GnRH secretion in males and females and surge GnRH secretion in females are inhibited during a variety of stress types. There has been considerable advancement in our understanding of numerous stress-related signaling molecules and their ability to impair reproductive neuroendocrine activity during stress. Recently, much attention has turned to the effects of stress on two populations of kisspeptin neurons: the stimulatory afferents to GnRH neurons that regulate pulsatile and surge-type gonadotropin secretion. Indeed, future work is still required to fully construct the neuroanatomical framework underlying stress effects, directly or indirectly, on GnRH neuron function. The present review evaluates and synthesizes evidence related to stress-related signaling molecules acting directly on GnRH neurons. Here, we review the evidence for and against the action of a handful of signaling molecules as inhibitors of GnRH neuron function, including corticotropin-releasing hormone, urocortins, norepinephrine, cortisol/corticosterone, calcitonin gene-related peptide and arginine-phenylalanine-amide-related peptide-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard B McCosh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kevin T O'Bryne
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, UK
| | - Fred J Karsch
- Reproductive Sciences Program and Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
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11
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Singh P, Anjum S, Srivastava RK, Tsutsui K, Krishna A. Central and peripheral neuropeptide RFRP-3: A bridge linking reproduction, nutrition, and stress response. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 65:100979. [PMID: 35122778 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.100979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This article is an amalgamation of the current status of RFRP-3 (GnIH) in reproduction and its association with the nutrition and stress-mediated changes in the reproductive activities. GnIH has been demonstrated in the hypothalamus of all the vertebrates studied so far and is a well-known inhibitor of GnRH mediated reproduction. The RFRP-3 neurons interact with the other hypothalamic neurons and the hormonal signals from peripheral organs for coordinating the nutritional, stress, and environmental associated changes to regulate reproduction. RFRP-3 has also been shown to regulate puberty, reproductive cyclicity and senescence depending upon the nutritional status. A favourable nutritional status and the environmental cues which are permissive for the successful breeding and pregnancy outcome keep RFRP-3 level low, whereas unfavourable nutritional status and stressful conditions increase the expression of RFRP-3 which impairs the reproduction. Still our knowledge about RFRP-3 is incomplete regarding its therapeutic application for nutritional or stress-related reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padmasana Singh
- Department of Zoology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, Anuppur 484886, MP, India
| | - Shabana Anjum
- Department of Chemical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raj Kamal Srivastava
- Department of Zoology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, Anuppur 484886, MP, India
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Kagamiyama 1-7-1, Higashi-Hiroshima University 739-8521, Japan
| | - Amitabh Krishna
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, UP, India.
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12
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Advancing reproductive neuroendocrinology through research on the regulation of GnIH and on its diverse actions on reproductive physiology and behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 64:100955. [PMID: 34767778 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) in 2000 has led to a new research era of reproductive neuroendocrinology because, for a long time, researchers believed that only gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulated reproduction as a neurohormone. Later studies on GnIH demonstrated that it acts as a new key neurohormone inhibiting reproduction in vertebrates. GnIH reduces gonadotropin release andsynthesis via the GnIH receptor GPR147 on gonadotropes and GnRH neurons. Furthermore, GnIH inhibits reproductive behavior, in addition to reproductive neuroendocrine function. The modification of the synthesis of GnIH and its release by the neuroendocrine integration of environmental and internal factors has also been demonstrated. Thus, the discovery of GnIH has facilitated advances in reproductive neuroendocrinology. Here, we describe the advances in reproductive neuroendocrinology driven by the discovery of GnIH, research on the effects of GnIH on reproductive physiology and behavior, and the regulatory mechanisms underlying GnIH synthesis and release.
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13
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Regulation of stress response on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis via gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 64:100953. [PMID: 34757094 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Under stressful condition, reproductive function is impaired due to the activation of various components of the hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal (HPA) axis, which can suppress the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis at multiple levels. A hypothalamic neuropeptide, gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a key negative regulator of reproduction that governs the HPG axis. Converging lines of evidence have suggested that different stress types and their duration, such as physical or psychological, and acute or chronic, can modulate the GnIH system. To clarify the sensitivity and reactivity of the GnIH system in response to stress, we summarize and critically review the available studies that investigated the effects of various stressors, such as restraint, nutritional/metabolic and social stress, on GnIH expression and/or its neuronal activity leading to altered HPG action. In this review, we focus on GnIH as the potential novel mediator responsible for stress-induced reproductive dysfunction.
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14
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Voigt C, Bennett NC. Gene expression pattern of Kisspeptin and RFamide-related peptide (Rfrp) in the male Damaraland mole-rat hypothalamus. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 118:102039. [PMID: 34655735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2021.102039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Damaraland mole-rats (Fukomys damarensis) are cooperatively breeding, subterranean mammals, which exhibit high reproductive skew. Reproduction is monopolized by the dominant female of the group, while subordinates are anovulatory. Similarly, male subordinates within the colony show no sexual behaviour although they have functional gonads and do not differ from reproductive males in circulating levels of pituitary hormones and testosterone. However, reproductive status affects the neuroendocrine phenotype of males with breeders possessing increased mRNA expression of androgen and progesterone receptors compared to non-breeders in several forebrain regions implicated in the regulation of reproductive behaviour. The RFamide peptides kisspeptin and RFRP-3, encoded by the Kiss1 and Rfrp gene, are considered potent regulators of gonadotropin release. In females, reproductive inhibition is associated with reduced Kiss1 expression within the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and increased Rfrp expression in the anterior hypothalamus. To assess whether differential gene expression of Kiss1 and Rfrp underlies the difference in reproductive behaviour of males, we studied the expression of both genes by means of in situ hybridisation in wild-caught male Damaraland mole-rats with different reproductive status. The distribution of Kiss1 and Rfrp within the hypothalamus was found to be similar to females. Quantification of the Kiss1 hybridisation signal revealed no significant differences in relation to reproductive status. However, there was a significant positive correlation between testis mass and the number of Kiss1-expressing cells in the ARC and the mRNA content per cell, respectively. Analysis of the Rfrp hybridisation signal along the rostro-caudal extent of the hypothalamus revealed that non-reproductive males possessed an increased number of Rfrp-expressing cells at the level of the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH) than reproductive males. These data suggest the Kiss1 expression within the ARC is not associated with reproductive quiescence in subordinate males but instead, inhibitory effects may be mediated by Rfrp-expressing cells in the DMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Voigt
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, 0028 Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Nigel C Bennett
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, 0028 Pretoria, South Africa
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Phumsatitpong C, Wagenmaker ER, Moenter SM. Neuroendocrine interactions of the stress and reproductive axes. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100928. [PMID: 34171353 PMCID: PMC8605987 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction is controlled by a sequential regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The HPG axis integrates multiple inputs to maintain proper reproductive functions. It has long been demonstrated that stress alters fertility. Nonetheless, the central mechanisms of how stress interacts with the reproductive system are not fully understood. One of the major pathways that is activated during the stress response is the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In this review, we discuss several aspects of the interactions between these two neuroendocrine systems to offer insights to mechanisms of how the HPA and HPG axes interact. We have also included discussions of other systems, for example GABA-producing neurons, where they are informative to the overall picture of stress effects on reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayarndorn Phumsatitpong
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Elizabeth R Wagenmaker
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
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Mohapatra SS, Mukherjee J, Banerjee D, Das PK, Ghosh PR, Das K. RFamide peptides, the novel regulators of mammalian HPG axis: A review. Vet World 2021; 14:1867-1873. [PMID: 34475710 PMCID: PMC8404114 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.1867-1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs) are the group of neuropeptides synthesized predominantly from the hypothalamus that negatively affects the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal (hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal [HPG]) axis. These peptides are first identified in quail brains and emerged as the mammalian orthologs of avian gonadotropin inhibitory hormones. The RFRP-3 neurons in the hypothalamus are present in several mammalian species. The action of RFRP-3 is mediated through a G-protein-coupled receptor called OT7T022. The predominant role of RFRP-3 is the inhibition of HPG axis with several other effects such as the regulation of metabolic activity, stress regulation, controlling of non-sexual motivated behavior, and sexual photoperiodicity in concert with other neuropeptides such as kisspeptin, neuropeptide-Y (NPY), pro-opiomelanocortin, orexin, and melanin. RFamide peptides synthesized in the granulosa cells, interstitial cells, and seminiferous tubule regulate steroidogenesis and gametogenesis in the gonads. The present review is intended to provide the recent findings that explore the role of RFRP-3 in regulating HPG axis and its potential applications in the synchronization of reproduction and its therapeutic interventions to prevent stress-induced amenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smruti Smita Mohapatra
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Joydip Mukherjee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Dipak Banerjee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pradip Kumar Das
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Prabal Ranjan Ghosh
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Kinsuk Das
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Freeman AR. Female-female reproductive suppression: impacts on signals and behavior. Integr Comp Biol 2021; 61:1827-1840. [PMID: 33871603 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icab027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Female-female reproductive suppression is evident in an array of mammals, including rodents, primates, and carnivores. By suppressing others, breeding females can benefit by reducing competition from other females and their offspring. There are neuroendocrinological changes during suppression which result in altered behavior, reproductive cycling, and communication. This review, which focuses on species in Rodentia, explores the current theoretical frameworks of female-female reproductive suppression, how female presence and rank impacts reproductive suppression, and some of the proposed mechanisms of suppression. Finally, the understudied role of olfactory communication in female-female reproductive suppression is discussed to identify current gaps in our understanding of this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Freeman
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, 211 Uris Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
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18
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Abstract
Female reproductive success relies on proper integration of circadian- and ovarian- signals to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in order to synchronize the preovulatory LH surge at the end of the ovarian follicular stage with the onset of the main active period. In this study, we used a combination of neuroanatomical and electrophysiological approaches to assess whether the hypothalamic neurons expressing Arg-Phe amide-related peptide (RFRP-3), a gonadotropin inhibitory peptide, exhibit daily and estrous stage dependent variations in female mice. Furthermore, we investigated whether arginine vasopressin (AVP), a circadian peptide produced by the suprachiamatic nucleus regulates RFRP-3 neurons. The number of c-Fos–positive RFRP-3 immunoreactive neurons is significantly reduced at the day-to-night transition with no difference between diestrus and proestrus. Contrastingly, RFRP neuron firing rate is higher in proestrus as compared to diestrus, independently of the time of the day. AVP immunoreactive fibers contact RFRP neurons with the highest density observed during the late afternoon of diestrus and proestrus. Application of AVP increases RFRP neurons firing in the afternoon (ZT6-10) of diestrus, but not at the same time point of proestrus, indicating that AVP signaling on RFRP neurons may depend on circulating ovarian steroids. Together, these studies show that RFRP neurons integrate both daily and estrogenic signals, which downstream may help to properly time the preovulatory LH surge.
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Wright H, Aylwin CF, Toro CA, Ojeda SR, Lomniczi A. Polycomb represses a gene network controlling puberty via modulation of histone demethylase Kdm6b expression. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1996. [PMID: 33479437 PMCID: PMC7819995 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81689-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Female puberty is subject to Polycomb Group (PcG)-dependent transcriptional repression. Kiss1, a puberty-activating gene, is a key target of this silencing mechanism. Using a gain-of-function approach and a systems biology strategy we now show that EED, an essential PcG component, acts in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus to alter the functional organization of a gene network involved in the stimulatory control of puberty. A central node of this network is Kdm6b, which encodes an enzyme that erases the PcG-dependent histone modification H3K27me3. Kiss1 is a first neighbor in the network; genes encoding glutamatergic receptors and potassium channels are second neighbors. By repressing Kdm6b expression, EED increases H3K27me3 abundance at these gene promoters, reducing gene expression throughout a gene network controlling puberty activation. These results indicate that Kdm6b repression is a basic mechanism used by PcG to modulate the biological output of puberty-activating gene networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hollis Wright
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/OHSU, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Carlos F Aylwin
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/OHSU, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Carlos A Toro
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/OHSU, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Sergio R Ojeda
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/OHSU, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/OHSU, Beaverton, OR, USA.
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