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Sucquart IE, Coyle C, Rodriguez Paris V, Prescott M, Glendining KA, Potapov K, Begg DP, Gilchrist RB, Walters KA, Campbell RE. Investigating GABA Neuron-Specific Androgen Receptor Knockout in two Hyperandrogenic Models of PCOS. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae060. [PMID: 38788194 PMCID: PMC11151696 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae060] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Androgen excess is a hallmark feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common form of anovulatory infertility. Clinical and preclinical evidence links developmental or chronic exposure to hyperandrogenism with programming and evoking the reproductive and metabolic traits of PCOS. While critical androgen targets remain to be determined, central GABAergic neurons are postulated to be involved. Here, we tested the hypothesis that androgen signaling in GABAergic neurons is critical in PCOS pathogenesis in 2 well-characterized hyperandrogenic mouse models of PCOS. Using cre-lox transgenics, GABA-specific androgen receptor knockout (GABARKO) mice were generated and exposed to either acute prenatal androgen excess (PNA) or chronic peripubertal androgen excess (PPA). Females were phenotyped for reproductive and metabolic features associated with each model and brains of PNA mice were assessed for elevated GABAergic input to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Reproductive and metabolic dysfunction induced by PPA, including acyclicity, absence of corpora lutea, obesity, adipocyte hypertrophy, and impaired glucose homeostasis, was not different between GABARKO and wild-type (WT) mice. In PNA mice, acyclicity remained in GABARKO mice while ovarian morphology and luteinizing hormone secretion was not significantly impacted by PNA or genotype. However, PNA predictably increased the density of putative GABAergic synapses to GnRH neurons in adult WT mice, and this PNA-induced plasticity was absent in GABARKO mice. Together, these findings suggest that while direct androgen signaling in GABA neurons is largely not required for the development of PCOS-like traits in androgenized models of PCOS, developmental programming of GnRH neuron innervation is dependent upon androgen signaling in GABA neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene E Sucquart
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Chris Coyle
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Valentina Rodriguez Paris
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Kelly A Glendining
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Kyoko Potapov
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
| | - Denovan P Begg
- Department of Behavioural Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Kirsty A Walters
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre of Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 9054
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2
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Constantin S, Quignon C, Pizano K, Shostak DM, Wray S. Vasoactive intestinal peptide excites GnRH neurons via KCa3.1, a potential player in the slow afterhyperpolarization current. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1354095. [PMID: 38633445 PMCID: PMC11021707 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1354095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an important component of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) which relays circadian information to neuronal populations, including GnRH neurons. Human and animal studies have shown an impact of disrupted daily rhythms (chronic shift work, temporal food restriction, clock gene disruption) on both male and female reproduction and fertility. To date, how VIP modulates GnRH neurons remains unknown. Calcium imaging and electrophysiology on primary GnRH neurons in explants and adult mouse brain slice, respectively, were used to address this question. We found VIP excites GnRH neurons via the VIP receptor, VPAC2. The downstream signaling pathway uses both Gs protein/adenylyl cyclase/protein kinase A (PKA) and phospholipase C/phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) depletion. Furthermore, we identified a UCL2077-sensitive target, likely contributing to the slow afterhyperpolarization current (IAHP), as the PKA and PIP2 depletion target, and the KCa3.1 channel as a specific target. Thus, VIP/VPAC2 provides an example of Gs protein-coupled receptor-triggered excitation in GnRH neurons, modulating GnRH neurons likely via the slow IAHP. The possible identification of KCa3.1 in the GnRH neuron slow IAHP may provide a new therapeutical target for fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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3
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Silva MSB, Decoster L, Delpouve G, Lhomme T, Ternier G, Prevot V, Giacobini P. Overactivation of GnRH neurons is sufficient to trigger polycystic ovary syndrome-like traits in female mice. EBioMedicine 2023; 97:104850. [PMID: 37898094 PMCID: PMC10630624 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104850] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder leading to anovulatory infertility. Abnormalities in the central neuroendocrine system governed by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons might be related to ovarian dysfunction in PCOS, although the link in this disordered brain-to-ovary communication remains unclear. Here, we manipulated GnRH neurons using chemogenetics in adult female mice to unveil whether chronic overaction of these neurons would trigger PCOS-like hormonal and reproductive impairments. METHODS We used adult Gnrh1cre female mice to selectively target and express the designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD)-based chemogenetic tool hM3D(Gq) in hypophysiotropic GnRH neurons. Chronic chemogenetic activation protocol was carried out with clozapine N-oxide (CNO) i.p. injections every 48 h over a month. We evaluated the reproductive and hormonal profile before, during, and two months after chemogenetic manipulations. FINDINGS We discovered that the overactivation of GnRH neurons was sufficient to disrupt reproductive cycles, promote hyperandrogenism, and induce ovarian dysfunction. These PCOS features were detected with a long-lasting neuroendocrine dysfunction through abnormally high luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse secretion. Additionally, the GnRH-R blockade prevented the establishment of long-term neuroendocrine dysfunction and androgen excess in these animals. INTERPRETATION Taken together, our results show that hyperactivity of hypothalamic GnRH neurons is a major driver of reproductive and hormonal impairments in PCOS and suggest that antagonizing the aberrant GnRH signaling could be an efficient therapeutic venue for the treatment of PCOS. FUNDING European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement n◦ 725149).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro S B Silva
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Laurine Decoster
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Gaspard Delpouve
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Tori Lhomme
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Gaetan Ternier
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France; Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.
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4
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Vasziné Szabó E, Köves K, Csáki Á. Fluorescent Molecules That Help Reveal Previously Unidentified Neural Connections in Adult, Neonatal and Peripubertal Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14478. [PMID: 37833924 PMCID: PMC10572731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914478] [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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
One hundred and twenty-five years ago there was a lively discussion between Hungarian and Spanish neuroscientists on the nature of neural connections. The question was whether the neurofibrils run from one neuron to the next and connect neurons as a continuous network or the fibrils form an internal skeleton in the neurons and do not leave the cell; however, there is close contact between the neurons. About 50 years later, the invention of the electron microscope solved the problem. Close contacts between individual neurons were identified and named as synapses. In the following years, the need arose to explore distant connections between neuronal structures. Tracing techniques entered neuroscience. There are three major groups of tracers: (A) non-transsynaptic tracers used to find direct connections between two neuronal structures; (B) tracers passing gap junctions; (C) transsynaptic tracers passing synapses that are suitable to explore multineuronal circuits. According to the direction of the transport mechanism, the tracer may be ante- or retrograde. In this review, we focus on the ever-increasing number of fluorescent tracers that we have also used in our studies. The advantage of the use of these molecules is that the fluorescence of the tracer can be seen in histological sections without any other processes. Genes encoding fluorescent molecules can be inserted in various neuropeptide or neurotransmitter expressing transcriptomes. This makes it possible to study the anatomy, development or functional relations of these neuronal networks in transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enikő Vasziné Szabó
- Department of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Semmelweis University, Szentkirályi u. 47, H-1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Köves
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary; (K.K.); (Á.C.)
| | - Ágnes Csáki
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary; (K.K.); (Á.C.)
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5
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Ruddenklau A, Glendining K, Prescott M, Campbell RE. Validation of a new Custom Polyclonal Progesterone Receptor Antibody for Immunohistochemistry in the Female Mouse Brain. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad113. [PMID: 37693686 PMCID: PMC10492226 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunohistochemical visualization of progesterone receptor (PR)-expressing cells in the brain is a powerful technique to investigate the role of progesterone in the neuroendocrine regulation of fertility. A major obstacle to the immunohistochemical visualization of progesterone-sensitive cells in the rodent brain has been the discontinuation of the commercially produced A0098 rabbit polyclonal PR antibody by DAKO. To address the unavailability of this widely used PR antibody, we optimized and evaluated 4 alternative commercial PR antibodies and found that each lacked the specificity and/or sensitivity to immunohistochemically label PR-expressing cells in paraformaldehyde-fixed female mouse brain sections. As a result, we developed and validated a new custom RC269 PR antibody, directed against the same 533-547 amino acid sequence of the human PR as the discontinued A0098 DAKO PR antibody. Immunohistochemical application of the RC269 PR antibody on paraformaldehyde-fixed mouse brain sections resulted in nuclear PR labeling that was highly distinguishable from background, specific to its antigen, highly regulated by estradiol, matched the known distribution of PR protein expression in the female mouse hypothalamus, and nearly identical to that of the discontinued A0098 DAKO PR antibody. In summary, the RC269 PR antibody is a specific and sensitive antibody to immunohistochemically visualize PR-expressing cells in the mouse brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Ruddenklau
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Kelly Glendining
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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6
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Chachlaki K, Messina A, Delli V, Leysen V, Maurnyi C, Huber C, Ternier G, Skrapits K, Papadakis G, Shruti S, Kapanidou M, Cheng X, Acierno J, Rademaker J, Rasika S, Quinton R, Niedziela M, L'Allemand D, Pignatelli D, Dirlewander M, Lang-Muritano M, Kempf P, Catteau-Jonard S, Niederländer NJ, Ciofi P, Tena-Sempere M, Garthwaite J, Storme L, Avan P, Hrabovszky E, Carleton A, Santoni F, Giacobini P, Pitteloud N, Prevot V. NOS1 mutations cause hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with sensory and cognitive deficits that can be reversed in infantile mice. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabh2369. [PMID: 36197968 PMCID: PMC7613826 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abh2369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway in hypothalamic neurons plays a key role in the regulation of the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is crucial for reproduction. We hypothesized that a disruption of neuronal NO synthase (NOS1) activity underlies some forms of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on a cohort of 341 probands with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism to identify ultrarare variants in NOS1. The activity of the identified NOS1 mutant proteins was assessed by their ability to promote nitrite and cGMP production in vitro. In addition, physiological and pharmacological characterization was carried out in a Nos1-deficient mouse model. We identified five heterozygous NOS1 loss-of-function mutations in six probands with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (2%), who displayed additional phenotypes including anosmia, hearing loss, and intellectual disability. NOS1 was found to be transiently expressed by GnRH neurons in the nose of both humans and mice, and Nos1 deficiency in mice resulted in dose-dependent defects in sexual maturation as well as in olfaction, hearing, and cognition. The pharmacological inhibition of NO production in postnatal mice revealed a critical time window during which Nos1 activity shaped minipuberty and sexual maturation. Inhaled NO treatment at minipuberty rescued both reproductive and behavioral phenotypes in Nos1-deficient mice. In summary, lack of NOS1 activity led to GnRH deficiency associated with sensory and intellectual comorbidities in humans and mice. NO treatment during minipuberty reversed deficits in sexual maturation, olfaction, and cognition in Nos1 mutant mice, suggesting a potential therapy for humans with NO deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Chachlaki
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France.,Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland.,University Research Institute of Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Andrea Messina
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Virginia Delli
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Valerie Leysen
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Csilla Maurnyi
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 43 Szigony St., Budapest 1083, Hungary
| | - Chieko Huber
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1 rue Michel-Servet, Geneva 1211, Switzerland
| | - Gaëtan Ternier
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Katalin Skrapits
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 43 Szigony St., Budapest 1083, Hungary
| | - Georgios Papadakis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Sonal Shruti
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Maria Kapanidou
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Xu Cheng
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - James Acierno
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Jesse Rademaker
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Sowmyalakshmi Rasika
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Richard Quinton
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute and the Royal Victoria Infirmary, University of Newcastle , Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Marek Niedziela
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology and Rheumatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 61-701, Poland
| | - Dagmar L'Allemand
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen 9000, Switzerland
| | - Duarte Pignatelli
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital S João; Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto; IPATIMUP Research Institute, Porto 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Mirjam Dirlewander
- Pediatric Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Children's Hospital, University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva CH1205, Switzerland
| | - Mariarosaria Lang-Muritano
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology and Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital, Zürich 8032, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Kempf
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern 3010, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France.,Department of Gynaecology and Obstretic, Jeanne de Flandres Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Nicolas J Niederländer
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Ciofi
- Inserm, U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux F-33077, France
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba 14004, Spain.,Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC/HURS), Cordoba 14004, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba 14004, Spain
| | - John Garthwaite
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6DH, UK
| | - Laurent Storme
- FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France.,Department of Neonatology, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHU of Lille, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Paul Avan
- Université de Clerremont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand F-63000, France
| | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 43 Szigony St., Budapest 1083, Hungary
| | - Alan Carleton
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1 rue Michel-Servet, Geneva 1211, Switzerland
| | - Federico Santoni
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, Lille F-59000, France.,FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille F-59000, France
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7
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Arias A, Manubens-Gil L, Dierssen M. Fluorescent transgenic mouse models for whole-brain imaging in health and disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:958222. [PMID: 36211979 PMCID: PMC9538927 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.958222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A paradigm shift is occurring in neuroscience and in general in life sciences converting biomedical research from a descriptive discipline into a quantitative, predictive, actionable science. Living systems are becoming amenable to quantitative description, with profound consequences for our ability to predict biological phenomena. New experimental tools such as tissue clearing, whole-brain imaging, and genetic engineering technologies have opened the opportunity to embrace this new paradigm, allowing to extract anatomical features such as cell number, their full morphology, and even their structural connectivity. These tools will also allow the exploration of new features such as their geometrical arrangement, within and across brain regions. This would be especially important to better characterize brain function and pathological alterations in neurological, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative disorders. New animal models for mapping fluorescent protein-expressing neurons and axon pathways in adult mice are key to this aim. As a result of both developments, relevant cell populations with endogenous fluorescence signals can be comprehensively and quantitatively mapped to whole-brain images acquired at submicron resolution. However, they present intrinsic limitations: weak fluorescent signals, unequal signal strength across the same cell type, lack of specificity of fluorescent labels, overlapping signals in cell types with dense labeling, or undetectable signal at distal parts of the neurons, among others. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in the development of fluorescent transgenic mouse models that overcome to some extent the technical and conceptual limitations and tradeoffs between different strategies. We also discuss the potential use of these strains for understanding disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Arias
- Department of System Biology, Centre for Genomic Regulation, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Linus Manubens-Gil
- Institute for Brain and Intelligence, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Department of System Biology, Centre for Genomic Regulation, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Mara Dierssen,
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8
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Manfredi-Lozano M, Leysen V, Adamo M, Paiva I, Rovera R, Pignat JM, Timzoura FE, Candlish M, Eddarkaoui S, Malone SA, Silva MSB, Trova S, Imbernon M, Decoster L, Cotellessa L, Tena-Sempere M, Claret M, Paoloni-Giacobino A, Plassard D, Paccou E, Vionnet N, Acierno J, Maceski AM, Lutti A, Pfrieger F, Rasika S, Santoni F, Boehm U, Ciofi P, Buée L, Haddjeri N, Boutillier AL, Kuhle J, Messina A, Draganski B, Giacobini P, Pitteloud N, Prevot V. GnRH replacement rescues cognition in Down syndrome. Science 2022; 377:eabq4515. [PMID: 36048943 PMCID: PMC7613827 DOI: 10.1126/science.abq4515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
At the present time, no viable treatment exists for cognitive and olfactory deficits in Down syndrome (DS). We show in a DS model (Ts65Dn mice) that these progressive nonreproductive neurological symptoms closely parallel a postpubertal decrease in hypothalamic as well as extrahypothalamic expression of a master molecule that controls reproduction-gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-and appear related to an imbalance in a microRNA-gene network known to regulate GnRH neuron maturation together with altered hippocampal synaptic transmission. Epigenetic, cellular, chemogenetic, and pharmacological interventions that restore physiological GnRH levels abolish olfactory and cognitive defects in Ts65Dn mice, whereas pulsatile GnRH therapy improves cognition and brain connectivity in adult DS patients. GnRH thus plays a crucial role in olfaction and cognition, and pulsatile GnRH therapy holds promise to improve cognitive deficits in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manfredi-Lozano
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Valerie Leysen
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Michela Adamo
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Isabel Paiva
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), UMR 7364, Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, Strasbourg, France
| | - Renaud Rovera
- Univ. Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron 69500, France
| | - Jean-Michel Pignat
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fatima Ezzahra Timzoura
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Michael Candlish
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University School of Medicine, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Sabiha Eddarkaoui
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France
| | - Samuel A. Malone
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Mauro S. B. Silva
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Sara Trova
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Monica Imbernon
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Laurine Decoster
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Ludovica Cotellessa
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Univ. Cordoba, IMIBC/HURS, CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Marc Claret
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ariane Paoloni-Giacobino
- Department of Genetic Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 4 rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil, 1211, Genève 14, Switzerland
| | - Damien Plassard
- CNRS UMR 7104, INSERM U1258, GenomEast Platform, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Emmanuelle Paccou
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Vionnet
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - James Acierno
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aleksandra Maleska Maceski
- Neurologic Clinic and Polyclinic, MS Centre and Research Centre for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel; University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
| | - Antoine Lutti
- Laboratory for Research in Neuroimaging LREN, Centre for Research in Neurosciences, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Frank Pfrieger
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - S. Rasika
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Federico Santoni
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University School of Medicine, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Philippe Ciofi
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Luc Buée
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France
| | - Nasser Haddjeri
- Univ. Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron 69500, France
| | - Anne-Laurence Boutillier
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), UMR 7364, Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Neurologic Clinic and Polyclinic, MS Centre and Research Centre for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel; University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
| | - Andrea Messina
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Bogdan Draganski
- Laboratory for Research in Neuroimaging LREN, Centre for Research in Neurosciences, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Switzerland,Neurology Department, Max-Planck-Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland,Correspondence to: and (+33 612903876)
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, LabexDistAlz, Lille, France,Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, FHU 1000 days for health, EGID, Lille, France,Correspondence to: and (+33 612903876)
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9
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Campbell RE, Coolen LM, Hoffman GE, Hrabovszky E. Highlights of neuroanatomical discoveries of the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone system. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13115. [PMID: 35502534 PMCID: PMC9232911 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The anatomy and morphology of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons makes them both a joy and a challenge to investigate. They are a highly unique population of neurons given their developmental migration into the brain from the olfactory placode, their relatively small number, their largely scattered distribution within the rostral forebrain, and, in some species, their highly varied individual anatomical characteristics. These unique features have posed technological hurdles to overcome and promoted fertile ground for the establishment and use of creative approaches. Historical and more contemporary discoveries defining GnRH neuron anatomy remain critical in shaping and challenging our views of GnRH neuron function in the regulation of reproductive function. We begin this review with a historical overview of anatomical discoveries and developing methodologies that have shaped our understanding of the reproductive axis. We then highlight significant discoveries across specific groups of mammalian species to address some of the important comparative aspects of GnRH neuroanatomy. Lastly, we touch on unresolved questions and opportunities for future neuroanatomical research on this fascinating and important population of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Lique M. Coolen
- Department of Biological SciencesKent State UniversityKentOhioUSA
| | | | - Erik Hrabovszky
- Laboratory of Reproductive NeurobiologyInstitute of Experimental MedicineBudapestHungary
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10
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Ogawa S, Yamamoto N, Hagio H, Oka Y, Parhar IS. Multiple gonadotropin-releasing hormone systems in non-mammalian vertebrates: Ontogeny, anatomy, and physiology. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13068. [PMID: 34931380 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13068] [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: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Three paralogous genes for gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; gnrh1, gnrh2, and gnrh3) and GnRH receptors exist in non-mammalian vertebrates. However, there are some vertebrate species in which one or two of these paralogous genes have become non-functional during evolution. The developmental migration of GnRH neurons in the brain is evolutionarily conserved in mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and jawed teleost fish. The three GnRH paralogs have specific expression patterns in the brain and originate from multiple sites. In acanthopterygian teleosts (medaka, cichlid, etc.), the preoptic area (POA)-GnRH1 and terminal nerve (TN)-GnRH3 neuronal types originate from the olfactory regions. In other fish species (zebrafish, goldfish and salmon) with only two GnRH paralogs (GnRH2 and GnRH3), the TN- and POA-GnRH3 neuronal types share the same olfactory origin. However, the developmental origin of midbrain (MB)-GnRH2 neurons is debatable between mesencephalic or neural crest site. Each GnRH system has distinctive anatomical and physiological characteristics, and functions differently. The POA-GnRH1 neurons are hypophysiotropic in nature and function in the neuroendocrine control of reproduction. The non-hypophysiotropic GnRH2/GnRH3 neurons probably play neuromodulatory roles in metabolism (MB-GnRH2) and the control of motivational state for sexual behavior (TN-GnRH3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ogawa
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Naoyuki Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Fish Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hanako Hagio
- Laboratory of Fish Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Oka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
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11
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Constantin S, Moenter SM, Piet R. The electrophysiologic properties of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13073. [PMID: 34939256 PMCID: PMC9163209 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13073] [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: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
For about two decades, recordings of identified gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons have provided a wealth of information on their properties. We describe areas of consensus and debate the intrinsic electrophysiologic properties of these cells, their response to fast synaptic and neuromodulatory input, Ca2+ imaging correlates of action potential firing, and signaling pathways regulating these aspects. How steroid feedback and development change these properties, functions of GnRH neuron subcompartments and local networks, as revealed by chemo- and optogenetic approaches, are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Departments of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Richard Piet
- Brain Health Research Institute & Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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12
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Coyle CS, Prescott M, Handelsman DJ, Walters KA, Campbell RE. Chronic androgen excess in female mice does not impact luteinizing hormone pulse frequency or putative GABAergic inputs to GnRH neurons. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13110. [PMID: 35267218 PMCID: PMC9286661 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with androgen excess and, frequently, hyperactive pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Although the origins of PCOS are unclear, evidence from pre-clinical models implicates androgen signalling in the brain in the development of PCOS pathophysiology. Chronic exposure of female mice to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from 3 weeks of age drives both reproductive and metabolic impairments that are ameliorated by selective androgen receptor (AR) loss from the brain. This suggests centrally driven mechanisms in hyperandrogen-mediated PCOS-like pathophysiology that remain to be defined. Acute prenatal DHT exposure can also model the hyperandrogenism of PCOS, and this is accompanied by increased LH pulse frequency and increased GABAergic innervation of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. We aimed to determine the impact of chronic exposure of female mice to DHT, which models the hyperandrogenism of PCOS, on pulsatile LH secretion and putative GABAergic input to GnRH neurons. To do this, GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GFP) female mice received either DHT or blank capsules for 90 days from postnatal day 21 (n = 6 or 7 per group). Serial tail-tip blood sampling was used to measure LH dynamics and perfusion-fixed brains were collected and immunolabelled for vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) to assess putative GABAergic terminals associated with GFP-labelled GnRH neurons. As expected, chronic DHT resulted in acyclicity and significantly increased body weight. However, no differences in LH pulse frequency or the density of VGAT appositions to GnRH neurons were identified between ovary-intact DHT-treated females and controls. Chronic DHT exposure significantly increased the number of AR expressing cells in the hypothalamus, whereas oestrogen receptor α-expressing neuron number was unchanged. Therefore, although chronic DHT exposure from 3 weeks of age increases AR expressing neurons in the brain, the GnRH neuronal network changes and hyperactive LH secretion associated with prenatal androgen excess are not evident. These findings suggest that unique central mechanisms are involved in the reproductive impairments driven by exposure to androgen excess at different developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S. Coyle
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - David J Handelsman
- Andrology LaboratoryANZAC Research InstituteConcord HospitalUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Kirsty A. Walters
- Fertility and Research CentreSchool of Women’s and Children’s HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Rebecca E. Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of PhysiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
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13
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Silva MSB, Campbell RE. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Neuroendocrine Consequences of Androgen Excess. Compr Physiol 2022; 12:3347-3369. [PMID: 35578968 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c210025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder strongly associated with androgen excess and frequently leading to female infertility. Although classically considered an ovarian disease, altered neuroendocrine control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the brain and abnormal gonadotropin secretion may underpin PCOS presentation. Defective regulation of GnRH pulse generation in PCOS promotes high luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatile secretion, which in turn overstimulates ovarian androgen production. Early and emerging evidence from preclinical models suggests that maternal androgen excess programs abnormalities in developing neuroendocrine circuits that are associated with PCOS pathology, and that these abnormalities are sustained by postpubertal elevation of endogenous androgen levels. This article will discuss experimental evidence, from the clinic and in preclinical animal models, that has significantly contributed to our understanding of how androgen excess influences the assembly and maintenance of neuroendocrine impairments in the female brain. Abnormal central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling has been identified in both patients and preclinical models as a possible link between androgen excess and elevated GnRH/LH secretion. Enhanced GABAergic innervation and drive to GnRH neurons is suspected to contribute to the pathogenesis and early manifestation of neuroendocrine derangement in PCOS. Accordingly, this article also provides an overview of GABA regulation of GnRH neuron function from prenatal development to adulthood to discuss possible avenues for future discovery research and therapeutic interventions. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3347-3369, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro S B Silva
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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14
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Bhattarai P, Rijal S, Bhattarai JP, Cho DH, Han SK. Suppression of neurotransmission on gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome: A mouse model. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059255. [PMID: 36699037 PMCID: PMC9868609 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women, characterized by the accretion of small cystic follicles in the ovary associated with chronic anovulation and overproduction of androgens. Ovarian function in all mammals is controlled by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which are the central regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. However, the impact on the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal function in the letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model remains unclear. METHODS In this study, we compared the response of various neurotransmitters and neurosteroids regulating GnRH neuronal activities between letrozole-induced PCOS and normal mice via electrophysiological techniques. RESULTS Response to neurotransmitter systems like GABAergic, glutamatergic and kisspeptinergic were suppressed in letrozole-fed compared to normal mice. In addition, neurosteroids tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC) and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c] pyridine-3-ol (THIP) mediated response on GnRH neurons were significantly smaller on letrozole-fed mice compared to normal mice. Furthermore, we also found that letrozole-fed mice showed irregularity in the estrous cycle, increased body weight, and anovulation in female mice. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that PCOS is an endocrine disorder that may directly affect the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal activity at the hypothalamic level and impact reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin Bhattarai
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Santosh Rijal
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Janardhan P. Bhattarai
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Dong Hyu Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
| | - Seong Kyu Han
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
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15
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Rijal S, Jang SH, Cho DH, Han SK. Hydrogen peroxide suppresses excitability of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in adult mouse. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:939699. [PMID: 36387844 PMCID: PMC9650413 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.939699] [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: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that reactive oxygen species (ROS) derived from oxygen molecule reduction can interfere with the cross-talk between the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and other endocrine axes, thus affecting fertility. Furthermore, ROS have been linked to GnRH receptor signaling in gonadotropes involved in gonadotropin release. There has been evidence that ROS can interfere with the HPG axis and gonadotropin release at various levels. However, the direct effect of ROS on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuron remains unclear. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), an ROS source, on GnRH neuronal excitabilities in transgenic GnRH-green fluorescent protein-tagged mice using the whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. In adults, H2O2 at high concentrations (mM level) hyperpolarized most GnRH neurons tested, whereas low concentrations (pM to μM) caused slight depolarization. In immature GnRH neurons, H2O2 exposure induced excitation. The sensitivity of GnRH neurons to H2O2 was increased with postnatal development. The effect of H2O2 on adult female GnRH neurons was found to be estrous cycle-dependent. Hyperpolarization mediated by H2O2 persisted in the presence of tetrodotoxin, a voltage-gated Na+ channel blocker, and amino-acids receptor blocking cocktail containing blockers for the ionotropic glutamate receptors, glycine receptors, and GABAA receptors, indicating that H2O2 could act on GnRH neurons directly. Furthermore, glibenclamide, an ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel blocker, completely blocked H2O2-mediated hyperpolarization. Increasing endogenous H2O2 by inhibiting glutathione peroxidase decreased spontaneous activities of most GnRH neurons. We conclude that ROS can act as signaling molecules for regulating GnRH neuron's excitability and that adult GnRH neurons are sensitive to increased ROS concentration. Results of this study demonstrate that ROS have direct modulatory effects on the HPG axis at the hypothalamic level to regulate GnRH neuron's excitabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Rijal
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Seon Hui Jang
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyu Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute for Medical Sciences, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
| | - Seong Kyu Han
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong Hyu Cho, ; Seong Kyu Han,
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16
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Keen KL, Petersen AJ, Figueroa AG, Fordyce BI, Shin J, Yadav R, Erdin S, Pearce RA, Talkowski ME, Bhattacharyya A, Terasawa E. Physiological Characterization and Transcriptomic Properties of GnRH Neurons Derived From Human Stem Cells. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6298609. [PMID: 34125902 PMCID: PMC8294693 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the hypothalamus play a key role in the regulation of reproductive function. In this study, we sought an efficient method for generating GnRH neurons from human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hESC and hiPSC, respectively). First, we found that exposure of primitive neuroepithelial cells, rather than neuroprogenitor cells, to fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8), was more effective in generating GnRH neurons. Second, addition of kisspeptin to FGF8 further increased the efficiency rates of GnRH neurogeneration. Third, we generated a fluorescent marker mCherry labeled human embryonic GnRH cell line (mCh-hESC) using a CRISPR-Cas9 targeting approach. Fourth, we examined physiological characteristics of GnRH (mCh-hESC) neurons: similar to GnRH neurons in vivo, they released the GnRH peptide in a pulsatile manner at ~60 min intervals; GnRH release increased in response to high potassium, kisspeptin, estradiol, and neurokinin B challenges; and injection of depolarizing current induced action potentials. Finally, we characterized developmental changes in transcriptomes of GnRH neurons using hESC, hiPSC, and mCh-hESC. The developmental pattern of transcriptomes was remarkably similar among the 3 cell lines. Collectively, human stem cell-derived GnRH neurons will be an important tool for establishing disease models to understand diseases, such as idiopathic hypothalamic hypogonadism, and testing contraceptive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim L Keen
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Andrew J Petersen
- Waisman Center, Graduate School, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Alexander G Figueroa
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Benjamin I Fordyce
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jaeweon Shin
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachita Yadav
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Program in Medical and Population Genetics and Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Serkan Erdin
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Program in Medical and Population Genetics and Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert A Pearce
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael E Talkowski
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Program in Medical and Population Genetics and Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anita Bhattacharyya
- Waisman Center, Graduate School, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ei Terasawa
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Correspondence: Ei Terasawa, PhD, Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, 1223 Capitol Court, Madison, WI 53715-1299, USA.
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17
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Yeo SH, Herde MK, Herbison AE. Morphological assessment of GABA and glutamate inputs to GnRH neurons in intact female mice using expansion microscopy. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e13021. [PMID: 34427015 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13021] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The roles GABAergic and glutamatergic inputs in regulating the activity of the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons at the time of the preovulatory surge remain unclear. We used expansion microscopy to compare the density of GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses on the GnRH neuron cell body and proximal dendrite in dioestrous and pro-oestrous female mice. An evaluation of all synapses immunoreactive for synaptophysin revealed that the highest density of inputs to rostral preoptic area GnRH neurons occurred within the first 45 µm of the primary dendrite (approximately 0.19 synapses µm-1 ) with relatively few synapses on the GnRH neuron soma or beyond 45 µm of the dendrite (0.05-0.08 synapses µm-1 ). Triple immunofluorescence labelling demonstrated a predominance of glutamatergic signalling with twice as many vesicular glutamate transporter 2 synapses detected compared to vesicular GABA transporter. Co-labelling with the GABAA receptor scaffold protein gephyrin and the glutamate receptor postsynaptic density marker Homer1 confirmed these observations, as well as the different spatial distribution of GABA and glutamate inputs along the dendrite. Quantitative assessments revealed no differences in synaptophysin, GABA or glutamate synapses at the proximal dendrite and soma of GnRH neurons between dioestrous and pro-oestrous mice. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that the GnRH neuron receives twice as many glutamatergic synapses compared to GABAergic synapses and that these inputs preferentially target the first 45 µm of the GnRH neuron proximal dendrite. These inputs appear to be structurally stable before the onset of pro-oestrous GnRH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shel-Hwa Yeo
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michel K Herde
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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18
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Sati A, Prescott M, Holland S, Jasoni CL, Desroziers E, Campbell RE. Morphological evidence indicates a role for microglia in shaping the PCOS-like brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12999. [PMID: 34216402 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility worldwide, the aetiology of the disorder remains poorly defined. Animal-based evidence highlights the brain as a prime suspect in both the development and maintenance of PCOS. Prenatally androgenised (PNA) models of PCOS exhibit excessive GABAergic wiring associated with PCOS-like reproductive deficits in adulthood, with aberrant brain wiring detected as early as postnatal day (P) 25, prior to disease onset, in the PNA mouse. The mechanisms underlying this aberrant brain wiring remain unknown. Microglia, the immune cells of the brain, are regulators of neuronal wiring across development, mediating both the formation and removal of neuronal inputs. Here, we tested the hypothesis that microglia play a role in the excessive GABAergic wiring that leads to PCOS-like features in the PNA brain. Using specific immunolabelling, microglia number and morphology associated with activation states were analysed in PNA and vehicle-treated controls across developmental timepoints, including embryonic day 17.5, P0, P25 and P60 (n = 7-14 per group), and in two regions of the hypothalamus implicated in fertility regulation. At P0, fewer amoeboid microglia were observed in the rostral preoptic area (rPOA) of PNA mice. However, the greatest changes were observed at P25, with PNA mice exhibiting fewer total microglia, and specifically fewer "sculpting" microglia, in the rPOA. Based on these findings, we assessed microglia-mediated refinement of GABAergic synaptic terminals at two developmental stages of peak synaptic refinement: P7 and P15 (n = 7 per group). PNA mice showed a reduction in the uptake of GABAergic synaptic material at P15. These findings reveal time-specific changes in the microglia population and refinement of GABAergic inputs in a mouse model of PCOS driven by prenatal androgen excess and suggest a role for microglia in shaping the atypical brain wiring associated with the development of PCOS features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Sati
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christine L Jasoni
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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19
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Nitric oxide resets kisspeptin-excited GnRH neurons via PIP2 replenishment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2012339118. [PMID: 33443156 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2012339118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertility relies upon pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) that drives pulsatile luteinizing hormone secretion. Kisspeptin (KP) neurons in the arcuate nucleus are at the center of the GnRH pulse generation and the steroid feedback control of GnRH secretion. However, KP evokes a long-lasting response in GnRH neurons that is hard to reconcile with periodic GnRH activity required to drive GnRH pulses. Using calcium imaging, we show that 1) the tetrodotoxin-insensitive calcium response evoked by KP relies upon the ongoing activity of canonical transient receptor potential channels maintaining voltage-gated calcium channels in an activated state, 2) the duration of the calcium response is determined by the rate of resynthesis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), and 3) nitric oxide terminates the calcium response by facilitating the resynthesis of PIP2 via the canonical pathway guanylyl cyclase/3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate/protein kinase G. In addition, our data indicate that exposure to nitric oxide after KP facilitates the calcium response to a subsequent KP application. This effect was replicated using electrophysiology on GnRH neurons in acute brain slices. The interplay between KP and nitric oxide signaling provides a mechanism for modulation of the refractory period of GnRH neurons after KP exposure and places nitric oxide as an important component for tonic GnRH neuronal pulses.
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20
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Constantin S, Pizano K, Matson K, Shan Y, Reynolds D, Wray S. An Inhibitory Circuit From Brainstem to GnRH Neurons in Male Mice: A New Role for the RFRP Receptor. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6132086. [PMID: 33564881 PMCID: PMC8016070 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RFamide-related peptides (RFRPs, mammalian orthologs of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone) convey circadian, seasonal, and social cues to the reproductive system. They regulate gonadotropin secretion by modulating gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons via the RFRP receptor. Mice lacking this receptor are fertile but exhibit abnormal gonadotropin responses during metabolic challenges, such as acute fasting, when the normal drop in gonadotropin levels is delayed. Although it is known that these food intake signals to the reproductive circuit originate in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) in the brainstem, the phenotype of the neurons conveying the signal remains unknown. Given that neuropeptide FF (NPFF), another RFamide peptide, resides in the NTS and can bind to the RFRP receptor, we hypothesized that NPFF may regulate GnRH neurons. To address this question, we used a combination of techniques: cell-attached electrophysiology on GnRH-driven green fluorescent protein-tagged neurons in acute brain slices; calcium imaging on cultured GnRH neurons; and immunostaining on adult brain tissue. We found (1) NPFF inhibits GnRH neuron excitability via the RFRP receptor and its canonical signaling pathway (Gi/o protein and G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels), (2) NPFF-like fibers in the vicinity of GnRH neurons coexpress neuropeptide Y, (3) the majority of NPFF-like cell bodies in the NTS also coexpress neuropeptide Y, and (4) acute fasting increased NPFF-like immunoreactivity in the NTS. Together these data indicate that NPFF neurons within the NTS inhibit GnRH neurons, and thus reproduction, during fasting but prior to the energy deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
| | - Katherine Pizano
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
| | - Kaya Matson
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
| | - Yufei Shan
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
| | - Daniel Reynolds
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
- Correspondence: Dr. Susan Wray, Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 35 Convent Drive MSC 3703, Building 35, Room 3A1012, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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21
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Yip SH, Liu X, Hessler S, Cheong I, Porteous R, Herbison AE. Indirect Suppression of Pulsatile LH Secretion by CRH Neurons in the Female Mouse. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6128702. [PMID: 33543235 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [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: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Acute stress is a potent suppressor of pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, but the mechanisms through which corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons inhibit gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release remain unclear. The activation of paraventricular nucleus (PVN) CRH neurons with Cre-dependent hM3Dq in Crh-Cre female mice resulted in the robust suppression of pulsatile LH secretion. Channelrhodopsin (ChR2)-assisted circuit mapping revealed that PVN CRH neuron projections existed around kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARN) although many more fibers made close appositions with GnRH neuron distal dendrons in the ventral ARN. Acutely prepared brain slice electrophysiology experiments in GnRH- green fluorescent protein (GFP) mice showed a dose-dependent (30 and 300 nM CRH) activation of firing in ~20% of GnRH neurons in both intact diestrus and ovariectomized mice with inhibitory effects being uncommon (<8%). Confocal GCaMP6 imaging of GnRH neuron distal dendrons in acute para-horizontal brain slices from GnRH-Cre mice injected with Cre-dependent GCaMP6s adeno-associated viruses demonstrated no effects of 30 to 300 nM CRH on GnRH neuron dendron calcium concentrations. Electrophysiological recordings of ARN kisspeptin neurons in Crh-Cre,Kiss1-GFP mice revealed no effects of 30 -300 nM CRH on basal or neurokinin B-stimulated firing rate. Similarly, the optogenetic activation (2-20 Hz) of CRH nerve terminals in the ARN of Crh-Cre,Kiss1-GFP mice injected with Cre-dependent ChR2 had no effect on kisspeptin neuron firing. Together, these studies demonstrate that PVN CRH neurons potently suppress LH pulsatility but do not exert direct inhibitory control over GnRH neurons, at their cell body or dendron, or the ARN kisspeptin neuron pulse generator in the female mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Hoong Yip
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Xinhuai Liu
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hessler
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Isaiah Cheong
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Robert Porteous
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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22
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Liu X, Yeo SH, McQuillan HJ, Herde MK, Hessler S, Cheong I, Porteous R, Herbison AE. Highly redundant neuropeptide volume co-transmission underlying episodic activation of the GnRH neuron dendron. eLife 2021; 10:62455. [PMID: 33464205 PMCID: PMC7847305 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The necessity and functional significance of neurotransmitter co-transmission remains unclear. The glutamatergic 'KNDy' neurons co-express kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin and exhibit a highly stereotyped synchronized behavior that reads out to the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuron dendrons to drive episodic hormone secretion. Using expansion microscopy, we show that KNDy neurons make abundant close, non-synaptic appositions with the GnRH neuron dendron. Electrophysiology and confocal GCaMP6 imaging demonstrated that, despite all three neuropeptides being released from KNDy terminals, only kisspeptin was able to activate the GnRH neuron dendron. Mice with a selective deletion of kisspeptin from KNDy neurons failed to exhibit pulsatile hormone secretion but maintained synchronized episodic KNDy neuron behavior that is thought to depend on recurrent NKB and dynorphin transmission. This indicates that KNDy neurons drive episodic hormone secretion through highly redundant neuropeptide co-transmission orchestrated by differential post-synaptic neuropeptide receptor expression at the GnRH neuron dendron and KNDy neuron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhuai Liu
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Shel-Hwa Yeo
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - H James McQuillan
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michel K Herde
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hessler
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Isaiah Cheong
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Robert Porteous
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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23
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Vastagh C, Csillag V, Solymosi N, Farkas I, Liposits Z. Gonadal Cycle-Dependent Expression of Genes Encoding Peptide-, Growth Factor-, and Orphan G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in Gonadotropin- Releasing Hormone Neurons of Mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 13:594119. [PMID: 33551743 PMCID: PMC7863983 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.594119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rising serum estradiol triggers the surge release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) at late proestrus leading to ovulation. We hypothesized that proestrus evokes alterations in peptidergic signaling onto GnRH neurons inducing a differential expression of neuropeptide-, growth factor-, and orphan G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) genes. Thus, we analyzed the transcriptome of GnRH neurons collected from intact, proestrous and metestrous GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GnRH-GFP) transgenic mice using Affymetrix microarray technique. Proestrus resulted in a differential expression of genes coding for peptide/neuropeptide receptors including Adipor1, Prokr1, Ednrb, Rtn4r, Nmbr, Acvr2b, Sctr, Npr3, Nmur1, Mc3r, Cckbr, and Amhr2. In this gene cluster, Adipor1 mRNA expression was upregulated and the others were downregulated. Expression of growth factor receptors and their related proteins was also altered showing upregulation of Fgfr1, Igf1r, Grb2, Grb10, and Ngfrap1 and downregulation of Egfr and Tgfbr2 genes. Gpr107, an orphan GPCR, was upregulated during proestrus, while others were significantly downregulated (Gpr1, Gpr87, Gpr18, Gpr62, Gpr125, Gpr183, Gpr4, and Gpr88). Further affected receptors included vomeronasal receptors (Vmn1r172, Vmn2r-ps54, and Vmn1r148) and platelet-activating factor receptor (Ptafr), all with marked downregulation. Patch-clamp recordings from mouse GnRH-GFP neurons carried out at metestrus confirmed that the differentially expressed IGF-1, secretin, and GPR107 receptors were operational, as their activation by specific ligands evoked an increase in the frequency of miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs). These findings show the contribution of certain novel peptides, growth factors, and ligands of orphan GPCRs to regulation of GnRH neurons and their preparation for the surge release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Veronika Csillag
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Roska Tamás Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Norbert Solymosi
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
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24
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Naulé L, Maione L, Kaiser UB. Puberty, A Sensitive Window of Hypothalamic Development and Plasticity. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqaa209. [PMID: 33175140 PMCID: PMC7733306 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Puberty is a developmental period characterized by a broad range of physiologic changes necessary for the acquisition of adult sexual and reproductive maturity. These changes mirror complex modifications within the central nervous system, including within the hypothalamus. These modifications result in the maturation of a fully active hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the neuroendocrine cascade ensuring gonadal activation, sex steroid secretion, and gametogenesis. A complex and finely regulated neural network overseeing the HPG axis, particularly the pubertal reactivation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, has been progressively unveiled in the last 3 decades. This network includes kisspeptin, neurokinin B, GABAergic, and glutamatergic neurons as well as glial cells. In addition to substantial modifications in the expression of key targets, several changes in neuronal morphology, neural connections, and synapse organization occur to establish mature and coordinated neurohormonal secretion, leading to puberty initiation. The aim of this review is to outline the current knowledge of the major changes that neurons secreting GnRH and their neuronal and glial partners undergo before and after puberty. Emerging mediators upstream of GnRH, uncovered in recent years, are also addressed herein. In addition, the effects of sex steroids, particularly estradiol, on changes in hypothalamic neurodevelopment and plasticity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydie Naulé
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luigi Maione
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Paris Saclay University, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department Endocrinology and Reproductive Diseases, Bicêtre Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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25
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Yip SH, Campos P, Liu X, Porteous R, Herbison AE. Innervation of GnRH Neuron Distal Projections and Activation by Kisspeptin in a New GnRH-Cre Rat Model. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqaa186. [PMID: 33057587 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The neural mechanisms generating pulsatile GnRH release from the median eminence (ME) remain unclear. Studies undertaken in the mouse demonstrate that GnRH neurons extend projections to the ME that have properties of both dendrites and axons, termed "dendrons," and that the kisspeptin neuron pulse generator targets these distal dendrons to drive pulsatile GnRH secretion. It presently remains unknown whether the GnRH neuron dendron exists in other species. We report here the generation of a knock-in Gnrh1-Ires-Cre rat line with near-perfect targeting of Cre recombinase to the GnRH neuronal phenotype. More than 90% of adult male and female GnRH neurons express Cre with no ectopic expression. Adeno-associated viruses were used in adult female Gnrh1-Ires-Cre rats to target mCherry or GCAMP6 to rostral preoptic area GnRH neurons. The mCherry tracer revealed the known unipolar and bipolar morphology of GnRH neurons and their principal projection pathways to the external zone of the ME. Synaptophysin-labeling of presynaptic nerve terminals revealed that GnRH neuron distal projections received numerous close appositions as they passed through the arcuate nucleus and into the median eminence. Confocal GCaMP6 imaging in acute horizontal brain slices demonstrated that GnRH neuron distal projections lateral to the median eminence were activated by kisspeptin. These studies indicate the presence of a dendron-like arrangement in the rat with GnRH neuron distal projections receiving synaptic input and responding to kisspeptin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Hoong Yip
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Pauline Campos
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Xinhuai Liu
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Robert Porteous
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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26
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Vanacker C, Trova S, Shruti S, Casoni F, Messina A, Croizier S, Malone S, Ternier G, Hanchate NK, Rasika S, Bouret SG, Ciofi P, Giacobini P, Prevot V. Neuropilin-1 expression in GnRH neurons regulates prepubertal weight gain and sexual attraction. EMBO J 2020; 39:e104633. [PMID: 32761635 PMCID: PMC7527814 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020104633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic neurons expressing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), the "master molecule" regulating reproduction and fertility, migrate from their birthplace in the nose to their destination using a system of guidance cues, which include the semaphorins and their receptors, the neuropilins and plexins, among others. Here, we show that selectively deleting neuropilin-1 in new GnRH neurons enhances their survival and migration, resulting in excess neurons in the hypothalamus and in their unusual accumulation in the accessory olfactory bulb, as well as an acceleration of mature patterns of activity. In female mice, these alterations result in early prepubertal weight gain, premature attraction to male odors, and precocious puberty. Our findings suggest that rather than being influenced by peripheral energy state, GnRH neurons themselves, through neuropilin-semaphorin signaling, might engineer the timing of puberty by regulating peripheral adiposity and behavioral switches, thus acting as a bridge between the reproductive and metabolic axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Vanacker
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Sara Trova
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Sonal Shruti
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Filippo Casoni
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Andrea Messina
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Sophie Croizier
- Center for Integrative GenomicsUniversity of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Samuel Malone
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Gaetan Ternier
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Naresh Kumar Hanchate
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - S Rasika
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Sebastien G Bouret
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Philippe Ciofi
- Inserm U1215Neurocentre MagendieBordeauxFrance
- Université de BordeauxBordeauxFrance
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine BrainUniv. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S 1172LilleFrance
- FHU, 1000 Days for HealthLilleFrance
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Rijal S, Cho DH, Park SA, Jang SH, Ábrahám IM, Han SK. Melatonin Suppresses the Kainate Receptor-Mediated Excitation on Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons in Female and Male Prepubertal Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21175991. [PMID: 32825350 PMCID: PMC7504472 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21175991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, a pineal gland secretion, is an amphiphilic neurohormone involved in the biological and physiologic regulation of bodily functions. Numerous studies have shown the effects of melatonin on the release of gonadotropins and their actions at one or several levels of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. However, direct melatonin action on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons and its mechanism of action remain unclear. Here, plasma melatonin levels were measured and the effect of melatonin on GnRH neurons was assessed using brain slice patch clamp techniques. The plasma melatonin levels in prepubertal mice were higher than those in the adults. Melatonin itself did not change the firing activity of GnRH neurons. Interestingly, the kainate receptor-mediated responses but not the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)- and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-induced responses were suppressed by melatonin in both the voltage clamp and current clamp modes. The inhibitory effects of the kainate-induced response by melatonin tended to increase with higher melatonin concentrations and persisted in the presence of tetrodotoxin, a voltage-sensitive Na+ channel blocker, or luzindole, a non-selective melatonin receptor antagonist. However, the response was completely abolished by pretreatment with pertussis toxin. These results suggest that melatonin can regulate GnRH neuronal activities in prepubertal mice by partially suppressing the excitatory signaling mediated by kainate receptors through pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein-coupled receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Rijal
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry & Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea; (S.R.); (S.H.J.)
| | - Dong Hyu Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Institute for Medical Sciences, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju 54907, Korea;
| | - Seon-Ah Park
- Non-Clinical Evaluation Center, Biomedical Research Institute, 20 Geonji-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54907, Korea;
| | - Seon Hui Jang
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry & Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea; (S.R.); (S.H.J.)
| | - István M. Ábrahám
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Seong Kyu Han
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry & Institute of Oral Bioscience, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea; (S.R.); (S.H.J.)
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-63-270-4030; Fax: +82-63-270-4004
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28
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Wang L, Guo W, Shen X, Yeo S, Long H, Wang Z, Lyu Q, Herbison AE, Kuang Y. Different dendritic domains of the GnRH neuron underlie the pulse and surge modes of GnRH secretion in female mice. eLife 2020; 9:53945. [PMID: 32644040 PMCID: PMC7347383 DOI: 10.7554/elife.53945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons exhibit pulse and surge modes of activity to control fertility. They also exhibit an unusual bipolar morphology comprised of a classical soma-proximal dendritic zone and an elongated secretory process that can operate as both a dendrite and an axon, termed a 'dendron'. We show using expansion microscopy that the highest density of synaptic inputs to a GnRH neuron exists at its distal dendron. In vivo, selective chemogenetic inhibition of the GnRH neuron distal dendron abolishes the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and markedly dampens LH pulses. In contrast, inhibitory chemogenetic and optogenetic strategies targeting the GnRH neuron soma-proximal dendritic zone abolish the LH surge but have no effect upon LH pulsatility. These observations indicate that electrical activity at the soma-proximal dendrites of the GnRH neuron is only essential for the LH surge while the distal dendron represents an autonomous zone where synaptic integration drives pulsatile GnRH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenya Guo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Shen
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shel Yeo
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hui Long
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhexuan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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29
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Stener-Victorin E, Padmanabhan V, Walters KA, Campbell RE, Benrick A, Giacobini P, Dumesic DA, Abbott DH. Animal Models to Understand the Etiology and Pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa010. [PMID: 32310267 PMCID: PMC7279705 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
More than 1 out of 10 women worldwide are diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the leading cause of female reproductive and metabolic dysfunction. Despite its high prevalence, PCOS and its accompanying morbidities are likely underdiagnosed, averaging > 2 years and 3 physicians before women are diagnosed. Although it has been intensively researched, the underlying cause(s) of PCOS have yet to be defined. In order to understand PCOS pathophysiology, its developmental origins, and how to predict and prevent PCOS onset, there is an urgent need for safe and effective markers and treatments. In this review, we detail which animal models are more suitable for contributing to our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of PCOS. We summarize and highlight advantages and limitations of hormonal or genetic manipulation of animal models, as well as of naturally occurring PCOS-like females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kirsty A Walters
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- School of Health Sciences and Education, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 - LilNCog - Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Daniel A Dumesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, California
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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30
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Pinet-Charvet C, Fleurot R, Derouin-Tochon F, de Graaf S, Druart X, Tsikis G, Taragnat C, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Labas V, Moreau T, Cayla X, Duittoz AH. Beta-nerve growth factor stimulates spontaneous electrical activity of in vitro embryonic mouse GnRH neurons through a P75 mediated-mechanism. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10654. [PMID: 32606357 PMCID: PMC7326925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67665-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The control of ovulation helps guarantee the success of reproduction and as such, contributes to the fitness of a species. In mammals, two types of ovulation are observed: induced and spontaneous ovulation. Recent work on camelids, that are induced ovulators, highlighted the role of a factor present in seminal plasma, beta Nerve Growth Factor (β-NGF), as the factor that triggers ovulation in a GnRH dependent manner. In the present work, we characterized alpaca β-NGF (aβ-NGF) and its 3D structure and compared it with human recombinant β-NGF (hβ-NGF). We showed that the β-NGF enriched fraction of alpaca semen and the human recombinant protein, both stimulated spontaneous electrical activity of primary GnRH neurons derived from mouse embryonic olfactory placodes. This effect was dose-dependent and mediated by p75 receptor signaling. P75 receptors were found expressed in vitro by olfactory ensheathing cells (OEC) in close association with GnRH neurons and in vivo by tanycytes in close vicinity to GnRH fibers in adult mouse. Altogether, these results suggested that β-NGF induced ovulation through an increase in GnRH secretion provoked by a glial dependent P75 mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Pinet-Charvet
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), ComUE Centre-Val de Loire, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Poitiers, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Renaud Fleurot
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Flavie Derouin-Tochon
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Simon de Graaf
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Catherine Taragnat
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- Infectiologie et Santé Publique (ISP) UMR1282, INRA, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Thierry Moreau
- Biologie des Oiseaux et Aviculture (BOA) UMR Centre INRA Val de Loire, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Cayla
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anne H Duittoz
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
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31
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Lund C, Yellapragada V, Vuoristo S, Balboa D, Trova S, Allet C, Eskici N, Pulli K, Giacobini P, Tuuri T, Raivio T. Characterization of the human GnRH neuron developmental transcriptome using a GNRH1-TdTomato reporter line in human pluripotent stem cells. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm040105. [PMID: 31996360 PMCID: PMC7075073 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.040105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons provide a fundamental signal for the onset of puberty and subsequent reproductive functions by secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Their disrupted development or function leads to congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). To model the development of human GnRH neurons, we generated a stable GNRH1-TdTomato reporter cell line in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. RNA-sequencing of the reporter clone, differentiated into GnRH neurons by dual SMAD inhibition and FGF8 treatment, revealed 6461 differentially expressed genes between progenitors and GnRH neurons. Expression of the transcription factor ISL1, one of the top 50 most upregulated genes in the TdTomato-expressing GnRH neurons, was confirmed in 10.5 gestational week-old human fetal GnRH neurons. Among the differentially expressed genes, we detected 15 genes that are implicated in CHH and several genes that are implicated in human puberty timing. Finally, FGF8 treatment in the neuronal progenitor pool led to upregulation of 37 genes expressed both in progenitors and in TdTomato-expressing GnRH neurons, which suggests upstream regulation of these genes by FGF8 signaling during GnRH neuron differentiation. These results illustrate how hPSC-derived human GnRH neuron transcriptomic analysis can be utilized to dissect signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks involved in human GnRH neuron development.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Lund
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Venkatram Yellapragada
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Vuoristo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 00029 Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Diego Balboa
- Centre for Genomic Regulation, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Trova
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, U1172 Lille, France
| | - Cecile Allet
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, U1172 Lille, France
| | - Nazli Eskici
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kristiina Pulli
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, U1172 Lille, France
- University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Timo Tuuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 00029 Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taneli Raivio
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- New Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, 00029 Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Messina A, Pulli K, Santini S, Acierno J, Känsäkoski J, Cassatella D, Xu C, Casoni F, Malone SA, Ternier G, Conte D, Sidis Y, Tommiska J, Vaaralahti K, Dwyer A, Gothilf Y, Merlo GR, Santoni F, Niederländer NJ, Giacobini P, Raivio T, Pitteloud N. Neuron-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Is Mutated in Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Am J Hum Genet 2020; 106:58-70. [PMID: 31883645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by infertility and the absence of puberty. Defects in GnRH neuron migration or altered GnRH secretion and/or action lead to a severe gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency. Given the close developmental association of GnRH neurons with the olfactory primary axons, CHH is often associated with anosmia or hyposmia, in which case it is defined as Kallmann syndrome (KS). The genetics of CHH are heterogeneous, and >40 genes are involved either alone or in combination. Several CHH-related genes controlling GnRH ontogeny encode proteins containing fibronectin-3 (FN3) domains, which are important for brain and neural development. Therefore, we hypothesized that defects in other FN3-superfamily genes would underlie CHH. Next-generation sequencing was performed for 240 CHH unrelated probands and filtered for rare, protein-truncating variants (PTVs) in FN3-superfamily genes. Compared to gnomAD controls the CHH cohort was statistically enriched for PTVs in neuron-derived neurotrophic factor (NDNF) (p = 1.40 × 10-6). Three heterozygous PTVs (p.Lys62∗, p.Tyr128Thrfs∗55, and p.Trp469∗, all absent from the gnomAD database) and an additional heterozygous missense mutation (p.Thr201Ser) were found in four KS probands. Notably, NDNF is expressed along the GnRH neuron migratory route in both mouse embryos and human fetuses and enhances GnRH neuron migration. Further, knock down of the zebrafish ortholog of NDNF resulted in altered GnRH migration. Finally, mice lacking Ndnf showed delayed GnRH neuron migration and altered olfactory axonal projections to the olfactory bulb; both results are consistent with a role of NDNF in GnRH neuron development. Altogether, our results highlight NDNF as a gene involved in the GnRH neuron migration implicated in KS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Messina
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kristiina Pulli
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sara Santini
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - James Acierno
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Johanna Känsäkoski
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Daniele Cassatella
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Cheng Xu
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Filippo Casoni
- Inserm, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Unité 1172 Lille, 59045 Lille, France; Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy, Milan 20132, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Samuel A Malone
- Inserm, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Unité 1172 Lille, 59045 Lille, France
| | - Gaetan Ternier
- Inserm, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Unité 1172 Lille, 59045 Lille, France
| | - Daniele Conte
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Yisrael Sidis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Johanna Tommiska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirsi Vaaralahti
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Andrew Dwyer
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yoav Gothilf
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences and Sagol School of Neurosciences, University of Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Giorgio R Merlo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Federico Santoni
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas J Niederländer
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Inserm, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Unité 1172 Lille, 59045 Lille, France
| | - Taneli Raivio
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; Pediatric Research Center, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland.
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Coutinho EA, Prescott M, Hessler S, Marshall CJ, Herbison AE, Campbell RE. Activation of a Classic Hunger Circuit Slows Luteinizing Hormone Pulsatility. Neuroendocrinology 2020; 110:671-687. [PMID: 31630145 DOI: 10.1159/000504225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The central regulation of fertility is carefully coordinated with energy homeostasis, and infertility is frequently the outcome of energy imbalance. Neurons in the hypothalamus expressing neuropeptide Y and agouti-related peptide (NPY/AgRP neurons) are strongly implicated in linking metabolic cues with fertility regulation. OBJECTIVE We aimed here to determine the impact of selectively activating NPY/AgRP neurons, critical regulators of metabolism, on the activity of luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse generation. METHODS We employed a suite of in vivo optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches with serial measurements of LH to determine the impact of selectively activating NPY/AgRP neurons on dynamic LH secretion. In addition, electrophysiological studies in ex vivo brain slices were employed to ascertain the functional impact of activating NPY/AgRP neurons on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. RESULTS Selective activation of NPY/AgRP neurons significantly decreased post-castration LH secretion. This was observed in males and females, as well as in prenatally androgenized females that recapitulate the persistently elevated LH pulse frequency characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Reduced LH pulse frequency was also observed when optogenetic stimulation was restricted to NPY/AgRP fiber projections surrounding GnRH neuron cell bodies in the rostral preoptic area. However, electrophysiological studies in ex vivo brain slices indicated these effects were likely to be indirect. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate the ability of NPY/AgRP neuronal signaling to modulate and, specifically, reduce GnRH/LH pulse generation. The findings suggest a mechanism by which increased activity of this hunger circuit, in response to negative energy balance, mediates impaired fertility in otherwise reproductively fit states, and highlight a potential mechanism to slow LH pulsatility in female infertility disorders, such as PCOS, that are associated with hyperactive LH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia A Coutinho
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hessler
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christopher J Marshall
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand,
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34
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Holland S, Prescott M, Pankhurst M, Campbell RE. The influence of maternal androgen excess on the male reproductive axis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18908. [PMID: 31827225 PMCID: PMC6906411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal androgen excess is suspected to contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. Evidence from preclinical female animal models links maternal androgen excess with the development of PCOS-like features and associated alterations in the neuronal network regulating the reproductive axis. There is some evidence suggesting that maternal androgen excess leads to similar reproductive axis disruptions in men, despite the critical role that androgens play in normal sexual differentiation. Here, the specific impact of maternal androgen excess on the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was investigated using a prenatal androgenization protocol in mice shown to model PCOS-like features in females. Reproductive phenotyping of prenatally androgenised male (PNAM) mice revealed no discernible impact of maternal androgen excess at any level of the reproductive axis. Luteinising hormone pulse characteristics, daily sperm production, plasma testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were not different in the male offspring of dams administered dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during late gestation compared to controls. Androgen receptor expression was quantified through the hypothalamus and identified as unchanged. Confocal imaging of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons revealed that in contrast with prenatally androgenised female mice, PNAM mice exhibited no differences in the density of putative GABAergic innervation compared to controls. These data indicate that a maternal androgen environment capable of inducing reproductive dysfunction in female offspring has no evident impact on the reproductive axis of male littermates in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Pankhurst
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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Dufour S, Quérat B, Tostivint H, Pasqualini C, Vaudry H, Rousseau K. Origin and Evolution of the Neuroendocrine Control of Reproduction in Vertebrates, With Special Focus on Genome and Gene Duplications. Physiol Rev 2019; 100:869-943. [PMID: 31625459 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, as in the other mammals, the neuroendocrine control of reproduction is ensured by the brain-pituitary gonadotropic axis. Multiple internal and environmental cues are integrated via brain neuronal networks, ultimately leading to the modulation of the activity of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. The decapeptide GnRH is released into the hypothalamic-hypophysial portal blood system and stimulates the production of pituitary glycoprotein hormones, the two gonadotropins luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. A novel actor, the neuropeptide kisspeptin, acting upstream of GnRH, has attracted increasing attention in recent years. Other neuropeptides, such as gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone/RF-amide related peptide, and other members of the RF-amide peptide superfamily, as well as various nonpeptidic neuromediators such as dopamine and serotonin also provide a large panel of stimulatory or inhibitory regulators. This paper addresses the origin and evolution of the vertebrate gonadotropic axis. Brain-pituitary neuroendocrine axes are typical of vertebrates, the pituitary gland, mediator and amplifier of brain control on peripheral organs, being a vertebrate innovation. The paper reviews, from molecular and functional perspectives, the evolution across vertebrate radiation of some key actors of the vertebrate neuroendocrine control of reproduction and traces back their origin along the vertebrate lineage and in other metazoa before the emergence of vertebrates. A focus is given on how gene duplications, resulting from either local events or from whole genome duplication events, and followed by paralogous gene loss or conservation, might have shaped the evolutionary scenarios of current families of key actors of the gonadotropic axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Dufour
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
| | - Bruno Quérat
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
| | - Hervé Tostivint
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
| | - Catherine Pasqualini
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
| | - Hubert Vaudry
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
| | - Karine Rousseau
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Paris, France; INSERM U1133, Physiologie de l'axe Gonadotrope, Paris, France; Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Physiologie Moléculaire et Adaptation, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (UMR 9197), Gif-sur-Yvette, France; and Université de Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France
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Geller S, Arribat Y, Netzahualcoyotzi C, Lagarrigue S, Carneiro L, Zhang L, Amati F, Lopez-Mejia IC, Pellerin L. Tanycytes Regulate Lipid Homeostasis by Sensing Free Fatty Acids and Signaling to Key Hypothalamic Neuronal Populations via FGF21 Secretion. Cell Metab 2019; 30:833-844.e7. [PMID: 31474567 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamus plays a key role in the detection of energy substrates to regulate energy homeostasis. Tanycytes, the hypothalamic ependymo-glia, are located at a privileged position to integrate multiple peripheral inputs. We observed that tanycytes produce and secrete Fgf21 and are located close to Fgf21-sensitive neurons. Fasting, likely via the increase in circulating fatty acids, regulates this central Fgf21 production. Tanycytes store palmitate in lipid droplets and oxidize it, leading to the activation of a reactive oxygen species (ROS)/p38-MAPK signaling pathway, which is essential for tanycytic Fgf21 expression upon palmitate exposure. Tanycytic Fgf21 deletion triggers an increase in lipolysis, likely due to impaired inhibition of key neurons during fasting. Mice deleted for tanycytic Fgf21 exhibit increased energy expenditure and a reduction in fat mass gain, reminiscent of a browning phenotype. Our results suggest that tanycytes sense free fatty acids to maintain body lipid homeostasis through Fgf21 signaling within the hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Geller
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Yoan Arribat
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Sylviane Lagarrigue
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lionel Carneiro
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lianjun Zhang
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, 1066 Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Amati
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Sports Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland; Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Isabel C Lopez-Mejia
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luc Pellerin
- Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre de Résonance Magnétique des Systèmes Biologiques, UMR5536 CNRS, LabEx TRAIL-IBIO, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Cedex 33760, France.
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37
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Csillag V, Vastagh C, Liposits Z, Farkas I. Secretin Regulates Excitatory GABAergic Neurotransmission to GnRH Neurons via Retrograde NO Signaling Pathway in Mice. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:371. [PMID: 31507377 PMCID: PMC6716020 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, reproduction is regulated by a wide range of metabolic hormones that maintain the proper energy balance. In addition to regulating feeding and energy expenditure, these metabolic messengers also modulate the functional performance of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Secretin, a member of the secretin-glucagon-vasoactive intestinal peptide hormone family, has been shown to alter reproduction centrally, although the underlying mechanisms have not been explored yet. In order to elucidate its central action in the neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction, in vitro electrophysiological slice experiments were carried out on GnRH-GFP neurons in male mice. Bath application of secretin (100 nM) significantly increased the frequency of the spontaneous postsynaptic currents (sPSCs) to 118.0 ± 2.64% compared to the control, and that of the GABAergic miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs) to 147.6 ± 19.19%. Resting membrane potential became depolarized by 12.74 ± 4.539 mV after secretin treatment. Frequency of evoked action potentials (APs) also increased to 144.3 ± 10.8%. The secretin-triggered elevation of the frequency of mPSCs was prevented by using either a secretin receptor antagonist (3 μM) or intracellularly applied G-protein-coupled receptor blocker (GDP-β-S; 2 mM) supporting the involvement of secretin receptor in the process. Regarding the actions downstream to secretin receptor, intracellular blockade of protein kinase A (PKA) with KT-5720 (2 μM) or intracellular inhibition of the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) by NPLA (1 μM) abolished the stimulatory effect of secretin on mPSCs. These data suggest that secretin acts on GnRH neurons via secretin receptors whose activation triggers the cAMP/PKA/nNOS signaling pathway resulting in nitric oxide release and in the presynaptic terminals this retrograde NO machinery regulates the GABAergic input to GnRH neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Csillag
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Roska Tamás Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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Malone SA, Papadakis GE, Messina A, Mimouni NEH, Trova S, Imbernon M, Allet C, Cimino I, Acierno J, Cassatella D, Xu C, Quinton R, Szinnai G, Pigny P, Alonso-Cotchico L, Masgrau L, Maréchal JD, Prevot V, Pitteloud N, Giacobini P. Defective AMH signaling disrupts GnRH neuron development and function and contributes to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. eLife 2019; 8:47198. [PMID: 31291191 PMCID: PMC6620045 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a condition characterized by absent puberty and infertility due to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency, which is often associated with anosmia (Kallmann syndrome, KS). We identified loss-of-function heterozygous mutations in anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its receptor, AMHR2, in 3% of CHH probands using whole-exome sequencing. We showed that during embryonic development, AMH is expressed in migratory GnRH neurons in both mouse and human fetuses and unconvered a novel function of AMH as a pro-motility factor for GnRH neurons. Pathohistological analysis of Amhr2-deficient mice showed abnormal development of the peripheral olfactory system and defective embryonic migration of the neuroendocrine GnRH cells to the basal forebrain, which results in reduced fertility in adults. Our findings highlight a novel role for AMH in the development and function of GnRH neurons and indicate that AMH signaling insufficiency contributes to the pathogenesis of CHH in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Andrew Malone
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Georgios E Papadakis
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Messina
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nour El Houda Mimouni
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Sara Trova
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Monica Imbernon
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Cecile Allet
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Irene Cimino
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France
| | - James Acierno
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniele Cassatella
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cheng Xu
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Richard Quinton
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Gabor Szinnai
- Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, University of Basel Children's Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Pigny
- CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Biochimie et Hormonologie, Centre de Biologie Pathologie, Lille, France
| | - Lur Alonso-Cotchico
- Departament de Química, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Laura Masgrau
- Departament de Química, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | | | - Vincent Prevot
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center (JPArc), Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Inserm, UMR-S 1172, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1, 000 Days for Health, Lille, France
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39
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Silva MSB, Desroziers E, Hessler S, Prescott M, Coyle C, Herbison AE, Campbell RE. Activation of arcuate nucleus GABA neurons promotes luteinizing hormone secretion and reproductive dysfunction: Implications for polycystic ovary syndrome. EBioMedicine 2019; 44:582-596. [PMID: 31178425 PMCID: PMC6606966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Enhanced GABA activity in the brain and a hyperactive hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common form of anovulatory infertility. Women with PCOS exhibit elevated cerebrospinal fluid GABA levels and preclinical models of PCOS exhibit increased GABAergic input to GnRH neurons, the central regulators of reproduction. The arcuate nucleus (ARN) is postulated as the anatomical origin of elevated GABAergic innervation; however, the functional role of this circuit is undefined. Methods We employed a combination of targeted optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches to assess the impact of acute and chronic ARN GABA neuron activation. Selective acute activation of ARN GABA neurons and their fiber projections was coupled with serial blood sampling for luteinizing hormone secretion in anesthetized male, female and prenatally androgenised (PNA) mice modelling PCOS. In addition, GnRH neuron responses to ARN GABA fiber stimulation were recorded in ex vivo brain slices. Chronic activation of ARN GABA neurons in healthy female mice was coupled with reproductive phenotyping for PCOS-like features. Findings Acute stimulation of ARN GABA fibers adjacent to GnRH neurons resulted in a significant and long-lasting increase in LH secretion in male and female mice. The amplitude of this response was blunted in PNA mice, which also exhibited a blunted LH response to GnRH administration. Infrequent and variable GABAA-dependent changes in GnRH neuron firing were observed in brain slices. Chronic activation of ARN GABA neurons in healthy females impaired estrous cyclicity, decreased corpora lutea number and increased circulating testosterone levels. Interpretation ARN GABA neurons can stimulate the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and chronic activation of ARN GABA neurons can mimic the reproductive deficits of PCOS in healthy females. Unexpectedly blunted HPG axis responses in PNA mice may reflect a history of high frequency GnRH/LH secretion and reduced LH stores, but also raise questions about impaired function within the ARN GABA population and the involvement of other circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro S B Silva
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hessler
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Chris Coyle
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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40
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Spergel DJ. Modulation of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neuron Activity and Secretion in Mice by Non-peptide Neurotransmitters, Gasotransmitters, and Gliotransmitters. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:329. [PMID: 31178828 PMCID: PMC6538683 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuron activity and GnRH secretion are essential for fertility in mammals. Here, I review findings from mouse studies on the direct modulation of GnRH neuron activity and GnRH secretion by non-peptide neurotransmitters (GABA, glutamate, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, histamine, ATP, adenosine, and acetylcholine), gasotransmitters (nitric oxide and carbon monoxide), and gliotransmitters (prostaglandin E2 and possibly GABA, glutamate, and ATP). These neurotransmitters, gasotransmitters, and gliotransmitters have been shown to directly modulate activity and/or GnRH secretion in GnRH neurons in vivo or ex vivo (brain slices), from postnatal through adult mice, or in embryonic or immortalized mouse GnRH neurons. However, except for GABA, nitric oxide, and prostaglandin E2, which appear to be essential for normal GnRH neuron activity, GnRH secretion, and fertility in males and/or females, the biological significance of their direct modulation of GnRH neuron activity and/or GnRH secretion in the central regulation of reproduction remains largely unknown and requires further exploration.
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41
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Moore AM, Abbott G, Mair J, Prescott M, Campbell RE. Mapping GABA and glutamate inputs to gonadotrophin-releasing hormone neurones in male and female mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12657. [PMID: 30415474 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurone function is dependent upon gonadal steroid hormone feedback, which is communicated in large part through an afferent neuronal network. The classical neurotransmitters GABA and glutamate are important regulators of GnRH neurone activity and are implicated in mediating feedback signals. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether GABAergic or glutamatergic input to GnRH neurones differs between males and females and/or exhibits morphological plasticity in response to steroid hormone feedback in females. Tissue collected from GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GFP) male and female mice in dioestrus underwent immunofluorescence labelling of GFP and either the vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) or the vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2). No differences in the densities or absolute numbers of VGAT-immunoreactive (-IR) or VGLUT2-IR puncta apposed to GnRH neurones were identified between males and females. The most significant input from either neurotransmitter was to the proximal dendritic region and 80% of VGAT-IR puncta apposed to GnRH neurones co-localised with synaptophysin. Putative inputs were also assessed in ovariectomised (OVX) female mice treated with negative (OVX+E) or positive (OVX+E+E) feedback levels of oestrogen, and OVX+E+E mice were killed during the expected GnRH/luteinising hormone surge. No differences in VGLUT2-IR contacts to GnRH neurones were identified between animals under the negative-feedback influence of oestrogen (OVX+E) or the positive influence of oestrogen (OVX+E+E), regardless of cFos activation status. By contrast, a significant elevation in putative GABAergic inputs to GnRH neurones at the time of the preovulatory surge was found in the cFos-negative subset of GnRH neurones, both at the level of the soma and at the proximal dendrite. Taken together, these data suggest that, although GABAergic and glutamatergic innervation of GnRH neurones is not sexually differentiated, cyclic fluctuations in steroid hormone feedback over the female oestrous cycle result in plastic changes in GABAergic inputs to a subpopulation of GnRH neurones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleisha M Moore
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Georgina Abbott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan Mair
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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42
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Han SY, Clarkson J, Piet R, Herbison AE. Optical Approaches for Interrogating Neural Circuits Controlling Hormone Secretion. Endocrinology 2018; 159:3822-3833. [PMID: 30304401 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Developments in optical imaging and optogenetics are transforming the functional investigation of neuronal networks throughout the brain. Recent studies in the neuroendocrine field have used genetic mouse models combined with a variety of light-activated optical tools as well as GCaMP calcium imaging to interrogate the neural circuitry controlling hormone secretion. The present review highlights the benefits and caveats of these approaches for undertaking both acute brain slice and functional studies in vivo. We focus on the use of channelrhodopsin and the inhibitory optogenetic tools, archaerhodopsin and halorhodopsin, in addition to GCaMP imaging of individual cells in vitro and neural populations in vivo using fiber photometry. We also address issues around the use of genetic vs viral delivery of encoded proteins to specific Cre-expressing cell populations, their quantification, and the use of conscious vs anesthetized animal models. To date, optogenetics and GCaMP imaging have proven useful in dissecting functional circuitry within the brain and are likely to become essential investigative tools for deciphering the different neural networks controlling hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Young Han
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jenny Clarkson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Richard Piet
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Moore AM, Prescott M, Czieselsky K, Desroziers E, Yip SH, Campbell RE, Herbison AE. Synaptic Innervation of the GnRH Neuron Distal Dendron in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2018; 159:3200-3208. [PMID: 30010812 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
GnRH neuron cell bodies are scattered throughout the basal forebrain but funnel their projections to the median eminence to release GnRH into the pituitary portal system to control fertility. Prior studies have shown that GnRH neurons located in the anterior hypothalamus send projections to the median eminence that have characteristics of both dendrites and axons. These unusual structures have been termed "dendrons." To address whether the dendron is unique to anterior hypothalamic GnRH neurons or is also a characteristic of more rostral GnRH neurons, we used viral vector‒mediated GnRH neuron‒specific tract-tracing coupled with CLARITY optical clearing. Individual rostral preoptic area GnRH neurons in female mice were identified to elaborate processes up to 4 mm in length that exhibited spines and projected all the way to the median eminence before branching into multiple short axons. The synaptic innervation patterns of distal GnRH neuron dendrons and their short axons in the vicinity of the median eminence were examined using electron microscopy. This revealed the presence of a high density of synaptic inputs to distal dendrons at the border of the median eminence. In contrast, no synapses were detected on any GnRH neuron axons. These studies demonstrate that GnRH neurons in the rostral preoptic area project dendrons to the edge of the median eminence, whereupon they branch into multiple short axons responsible for GnRH secretion. The dense synaptic innervation of these distal dendrons likely represents an efficient mechanism for controlling GnRH secretion required for fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleisha M Moore
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Mel Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Katja Czieselsky
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Siew Hoong Yip
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Raftogianni A, Roth LC, García-González D, Bus T, Kühne C, Monyer H, Spergel DJ, Deussing JM, Grinevich V. Deciphering the Contributions of CRH Receptors in the Brain and Pituitary to Stress-Induced Inhibition of the Reproductive Axis. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:305. [PMID: 30214395 PMCID: PMC6125327 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on pharmacological studies, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its receptors play a leading role in the inhibition of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis during acute stress. To further study the effects of CRH receptor signaling on the HPG axis, we generated and/or employed male mice lacking CRH receptor type 1 (CRHR1) or type 2 (CRHR2) in gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons, GABAergic neurons, or in all central neurons and glia. The deletion of CRHRs revealed a preserved decrease of plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) in response to either psychophysical or immunological stress. However, under basal conditions, central infusion of CRH into mice lacking CRHR1 in all central neurons and glia, or application of CRH to pituitary cultures from mice lacking CRHR2, failed to suppress LH release, unlike in controls. Our results, taken together with those of the earlier pharmacological studies, suggest that inhibition of the male HPG axis during acute stress is mediated by other factors along with CRH, and that CRH suppresses the HPG axis at the central and pituitary levels via CRHR1 and CRHR2, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Androniki Raftogianni
- Schaller Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg - Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lena C Roth
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Diego García-González
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty of Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg - German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Bus
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany.,Max Planck Research Group at the Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claudia Kühne
- Molecular Neurogenetics Research Group, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Hannah Monyer
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty of Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg - German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel J Spergel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jan M Deussing
- Molecular Neurogenetics Research Group, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Schaller Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg - Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
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Spergel DJ. Neuropeptidergic modulation of GnRH neuronal activity and GnRH secretion controlling reproduction: insights from recent mouse studies. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:179-191. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Dairaghi L, Flannery E, Giacobini P, Saglam A, Saadi H, Constantin S, Casoni F, Howell BW, Wray S. Reelin Can Modulate Migration of Olfactory Ensheathing Cells and Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Neurons via the Canonical Pathway. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:228. [PMID: 30127721 PMCID: PMC6088185 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
One key signaling pathway known to influence neuronal migration involves the extracellular matrix protein Reelin. Typically, signaling of Reelin occurs via apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) and very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), and the cytoplasmic adapter protein disabled 1 (Dab1). However, non-canonical Reelin signaling has been reported, though no receptors have yet been identified. Cariboni et al. (2005) indicated Dab1-independent Reelin signaling impacts gonadotropin releasing hormone-1 (GnRH) neuronal migration. GnRH cells are essential for reproduction. Prenatal migration of GnRH neurons from the nasal placode to the forebrain, juxtaposed to olfactory axons and olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), has been well documented, and it is clear that alterations in migration of these cells can cause delayed or absent puberty. This study was initiated to delineate the non-canonical Reelin signaling pathways used by GnRH neurons. Chronic treatment of nasal explants with CR-50, an antibody known to interfere with Reelin homopolymerization and Dab1 phosphorylation, decreased the distance GnRH neurons and OECs migrated. Normal migration of these two cell types was observed when Reelin was co-applied with CR-50. Immunocytochemistry was performed to determine if OECs might transduce Reelin signals via the canonical pathway, and subsequently indirectly altering GnRH neuronal migration. We show that in mouse: (1) both OECs and GnRH cells express ApoER2, VLDLR and Dab1, and (2) GnRH neurons and OECs show a normal distribution in the brain of two mutant reeler lines. These results indicate that the canonical Reelin pathway is present in GnRH neurons and OECs, but that Reelin is not essential for development of these two systems in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Dairaghi
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ellen Flannery
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ, United States
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean Pierre Aubert Research Centre, INSERM U1172, Lille, France
| | - Aybike Saglam
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hassan Saadi
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Stephanie Constantin
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Filippo Casoni
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Brian W. Howell
- Neuroscience and Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
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Bhattarai P, Bhattarai JP, Kim MS, Han SK. Non-genomic action of vitamin D3 on N-methyl-D-aspartate and kainate receptor-mediated actions in juvenile gonadotrophin-releasing hormone neurons. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:1231-1238. [PMID: 27225229 DOI: 10.1071/rd15357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is a versatile signalling molecule that plays a critical role in calcium homeostasis. There are several studies showing the genomic action of vitamin D in the control of reproduction; however, the quick non-genomic action of vitamin D at the hypothalamic level is not well understood. Therefore, to investigate the effect of vitamin D on juvenile gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, excitatory neurotransmitter receptor agonists N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA, 30μM) and kainate (10μM) were applied in the absence or in the presence of vitamin D3 (VitaD3, 10nM). The NMDA-mediated responses were decreased by VitaD3 in the absence and in the presence of tetrodotoxin (TTX), a sodium-channel blocker, with the mean relative inward current being 0.56±0.07 and 0.66±0.07 (P<0.05), respectively. In addition, VitaD3 induced a decrease in the frequency of gamma-aminobutyric acid mediated (GABAergic) spontaneous postsynaptic currents and spontaneous postsynaptic currents induced by NMDA application with a mean relative frequency of 0.595±0.07 and 0.56±0.09, respectively. Further, VitaD3 decreased the kainate-induced inward currents in the absence and in the presence of TTX with a relative inward current of 0.64±0.06 and 0.68±0.06, respectively (P<0.05). These results suggest that VitaD3 has a non-genomic action and partially inhibits the NMDA and kainate receptor-mediated actions of GnRH neurons, suggesting that VitaD3 may regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis at the time of pubertal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin Bhattarai
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Chonbuk National University, Duckjin Dong, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea
| | - Janardhan P Bhattarai
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Chonbuk National University, Duckjin Dong, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea
| | - Min Sun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Chonbuk National University Medical School, and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Institute of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Duckjin Dong, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea
| | - Seong Kyu Han
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Chonbuk National University, Duckjin Dong, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea
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Tan CL, Sheard PW, Jasoni CL. Developing neurites from mouse basal forebrain gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons use Sonic hedgehog to modulate their growth. Int J Dev Neurosci 2018; 68:89-97. [PMID: 29787797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are required for fertility in all mammalian species studied to date. GnRH neuron cell bodies reside in the basal forebrain, and most extend long neurites in the caudal direction to terminate at the median eminence (ME), the site of hormone secretion. Using in vitro neurite growth assays, histological methods, and genetic deletion strategies in mice we have analysed the role of the morphogen and neurite growth and guidance molecule, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), in the growth of GnRH neurites to their target. Immunohistochemistry revealed that Shh was present in the basal forebrain, the preoptic area (POA) and mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) at gestational day 14.5 (GD 14.5), a time when GnRH neurites grow towards the ME. Furthermore, in situ hybridization revealed that mRNA encoding the Shh receptor, Smoothened (Smo), was present in GnRH neurons from GD 15.5, when the first GnRH neurites are extending towards the MBH. In vitro neurite growth assays using hypothalamic explants from GD 15.5 fetuses in 3-D collagen gels showed that Shh was able to significantly stimulate GnRH neurite outgrowth. Finally, genetic deletion of Smo specifically from GnRH neurons in vivo, using Cre-loxP technology, resulted in a significant decrease in GnRH neurites innervating the ME. These experiments demonstrate that GnRH neurites use Shh for their neurite development, provide further understanding of the mechanisms by which GnRH nerve terminals arrive at their site of hormone secretion, and identify an additional hypothalamic neuronal population for which Shh/Smo signaling is developmentally important.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Tan
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand; Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - P W Sheard
- Department of Physiology, University of Otago, School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - C L Jasoni
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand; Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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Elevated prenatal anti-Müllerian hormone reprograms the fetus and induces polycystic ovary syndrome in adulthood. Nat Med 2018; 24:834-846. [PMID: 29760445 PMCID: PMC6098696 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-018-0035-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the main cause of female infertility worldwide and corresponds with a high degree of comorbidities and economic burden. How PCOS is passed on from one generation to the next is not clear, but it may be a developmental condition. Most women with PCOS exhibit higher levels of circulating luteinizing hormone, suggestive of heightened gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release, and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) as compared to healthy women. Excess AMH in utero may affect the development of the female fetus. However, as AMH levels drop during pregnancy in women with normal fertility it was unclear if their levels were also elevated in pregnant women with PCOS. Here, we measured AMH in a cohort of pregnant women with PCOS and control women and found that AMH is significantly more elevated in the former group versus the latter. To determine if the elevation of AMH during pregnancy in women with PCOS is a bystander effect or a driver of the condition in the offspring, we modelled our clinical findings by treating pregnant mice with AMH and followed the neuroendocrine phenotype of their female progeny postnatally. This treatment resulted in maternal neuroendocrine-driven testosterone excess and diminished placental metabolism of testosterone to estradiol, resulting in a masculinization of the exposed female fetus and a PCOS-like reproductive and neuroendocrine phenotype in adulthood. We found that the affected females had persistently hyperactivated GnRH neurons and that GnRH antagonist treatment in the adult female offspring restored their neuroendocrine phenotype to a normal state. These findings highlight a critical role for excess prenatal AMH exposure and subsequent aberrant GnRH receptor signaling in the neuroendocrine dysfunctions of PCOS, while offering a new potential therapeutic avenue to treat the condition during adulthood.
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Silva MS, Prescott M, Campbell RE. Ontogeny and reversal of brain circuit abnormalities in a preclinical model of PCOS. JCI Insight 2018; 3:99405. [PMID: 29618656 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.99405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen excess is a hallmark of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent yet poorly understood endocrine disorder. Evidence from women and preclinical animal models suggests that elevated perinatal androgens can elicit PCOS onset in adulthood, implying androgen actions in both PCOS ontogeny and adult pathophysiology. Prenatally androgenized (PNA) mice exhibit a robust increase of progesterone-sensitive GABAergic inputs to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons implicated in the pathogenesis of PCOS. It is unclear when altered GABAergic wiring develops in the brain, and whether these central abnormalities are dependent upon adult androgen excess. Using GnRH-GFP-transgenic mice, we determined that increased GABA input to GnRH neurons occurs prior to androgen excess and the manifestation of reproductive impairments in PNA mice. These data suggest that brain circuit abnormalities precede the postpubertal development of PCOS traits. Despite the apparent developmental programming of circuit abnormalities, long-term blockade of androgen receptor signaling from early adulthood rescued normal GABAergic wiring onto GnRH neurons, improved ovarian morphology, and restored reproductive cycles in PNA mice. Therefore, androgen excess maintains changes in female brain wiring linked to PCOS features and the blockade of androgen receptor signaling reverses both the central and peripheral PNA-induced PCOS phenotype.
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