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Maroteaux MJ, Noccioli CT, Daniel JM, Schrader LA. Rapid and local neuroestrogen synthesis supports long-term potentiation of hippocampal Schaffer collaterals-cornu ammonis 1 synapse in ovariectomized mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13450. [PMID: 39351868 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13450] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024]
Abstract
In aging women, cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia have been associated with the cessation of ovarian hormones production at menopause. In the brain, presence of the key enzyme aromatase required for the synthesis of 17-β-estradiol (E2) allows for local production of E2 in absence of functional ovaries. Understanding how aromatase activity is regulated could help alleviate the cognitive symptoms. In female rodents, genetic or pharmacological reduction of aromatase activity over extended periods of time impair memory formation, decreases spine density, and hinders long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus. Conversely, increased excitatory neurotransmission resulting in rapid N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor activation rapidly promotes neuroestrogen synthesis. This rapid modulation of aromatase activity led us to address the hypothesis that acute neuroestrogens synthesis is necessary for LTP at the Schaffer collateral-cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) synapse in absence of circulating ovarian estrogens. To test this hypothesis, we did electrophysiological recordings of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSPs) in hippocampal slices obtained from ovariectomized mice. To assess the impact of neuroestrogens synthesis on LTP, we applied the specific aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, before the induction of LTP with a theta burst stimulation protocol. We found that blocking aromatase activity prevented LTP. Interestingly, exogenous E2 application, while blocking aromatase activity, was not sufficient to recover LTP in our model. Our results indicate the critical importance of rapid, activity-dependent local neuroestrogens synthesis, independent of circulating hormones for hippocampal synaptic plasticity in female rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu J Maroteaux
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Claire T Noccioli
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jill M Daniel
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Laura A Schrader
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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2
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Koike-Kumagai M, Fujimoto M, Wataya-Kaneda M. Sex-based differences in neuropsychiatric symptoms are due to estradiol/ERα-dependent transcriptional regulation via the modulation of steroid levels by sirolimus. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 245:173875. [PMID: 39245213 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
The sex of the patient often affects the prevalence, progression, and severity of many psychiatric disorders. The incidence, progression, and severity of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, the most common neurodegenerative diseases, also differ between the sexes. Sex differences in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety are also observed in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Neuropsychiatric symptoms are one of the most important manifestations of TSC, and the multiple neuropsychiatric symptoms are collectively referred to as TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND). We created TSC model mice (Tsc2 conditional knockout [cKO] mice) that developed epilepsy and TAND. Sex-based differences were observed for hyperactivity and cognitive dysfunctions in Tsc2 cKO mice with TAND, indicating more severe symptoms in female mice than in male mice. TSC is thought to be caused by the hyperactivation of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), and mTORC1 inhibitors improve almost all TSC symptoms. Treatment with sirolimus, an mTORC1 inhibitor, improved TAND in Tsc2 cKO mice. We aimed to elucidate the mechanism underlying sex-based differences in TAND using Tsc2 cKO mice and sirolimus. We found that estradiol (E2) and estrogen receptor (ER)α are involved in sex differences in neuropsychiatric symptoms, and discovered a novel function of sirolimus. We showed that sirolimus ameliorated TAND by modulating brain steroid levels and regulating E2/ERα-dependent transcriptional activation. This indicates sirolimus may be beneficial for the treatment of TAND as well as diseases caused by sex-based differences and steroid levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Koike-Kumagai
- Department of Neurocutaneous Medicine, Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Manabu Fujimoto
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Mari Wataya-Kaneda
- Department of Neurocutaneous Medicine, Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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3
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Burmistrov DE, Gudkov SV, Franceschi C, Vedunova MV. Sex as a Determinant of Age-Related Changes in the Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7122. [PMID: 39000227 PMCID: PMC11241365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The notion of notable anatomical, biochemical, and behavioral distinctions within male and female brains has been a contentious topic of interest within the scientific community over several decades. Advancements in neuroimaging and molecular biological techniques have increasingly elucidated common mechanisms characterizing brain aging while also revealing disparities between sexes in these processes. Variations in cognitive functions; susceptibility to and progression of neurodegenerative conditions, notably Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases; and notable disparities in life expectancy between sexes, underscore the significance of evaluating aging within the framework of gender differences. This comprehensive review surveys contemporary literature on the restructuring of brain structures and fundamental processes unfolding in the aging brain at cellular and molecular levels, with a focus on gender distinctions. Additionally, the review delves into age-related cognitive alterations, exploring factors influencing the acceleration or deceleration of aging, with particular attention to estrogen's hormonal support of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitriy E. Burmistrov
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 38 Vavilova St., 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Sergey V. Gudkov
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 38 Vavilova St., 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Claudio Franceschi
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Maria V. Vedunova
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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4
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Mamczarz J, Lane M, Merchenthaler I. Letrozole delays acquisition of water maze task in female BALB/c mice: Possible involvement of anxiety. Horm Behav 2024; 162:105524. [PMID: 38513526 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105524] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor preventing estrogen synthesis from testosterone, is used as an adjuvant therapy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients. However, like other aromatase inhibitors, it induces many side effects, including impaired cognition. Despite its negative effect in humans, results from animal models are inconsistent and suggest that letrozole can either impair or improve cognition. Here, we studied the effects of chronic letrozole treatment on cognitive behavior of adult female BALB/c mice, a relevant animal model for breast cancer studies, to develop an appropriate animal model aimed at testing therapies to mitigate side effects of letrozole. In Morris water maze, letrozole 0.1 mg/kg impaired reference learning and memory. Interestingly, most of the letrozole 0.1 mg/kg-treated mice were able to learn the new platform position in reversal training and performed similar to control mice in a reversal probe test. Results of the reversal test suggest that letrozole did not completely disrupt spatial navigation, but rather delayed acquisition of spatial information. The delay might be related to increased anxiety as suggested by increased thigmotactic behavior during the reference memory training. The learning impairment was water maze-specific since we did not observe impairment in other spatial tasks such as in Y-maze or object location test. In contrast, the dose of 0.3 mg/kg did not have effect on water maze learning and facilitated locomotor habituation and recognition in novel object recognition test. The current study shows that letrozole dose-dependently modulates behavioral response and that its effects are task-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Mamczarz
- Division of Translational Toxicology, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America.
| | - Malcolm Lane
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Division of Translational Toxicology, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America; Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America
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5
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Machado GDB, Schnitzler AL, Fleischer AW, Beamish SB, Frick KM. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the dorsal hippocampus regulates memory consolidation in gonadectomized male mice, likely via different signaling mechanisms than in female mice. Horm Behav 2024; 161:105516. [PMID: 38428223 PMCID: PMC11065565 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105516] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Studies in ovariectomized (OVX) female rodents suggest that G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a key regulator of memory, yet little is known about its importance to memory in males or the cellular mechanisms underlying its mnemonic effects in either sex. In OVX mice, bilateral infusion of the GPER agonist G-1 into the dorsal hippocampus (DH) enhances object recognition and spatial memory consolidation in a manner dependent on rapid activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling, cofilin phosphorylation, and actin polymerization in the DH. However, the effects of GPER on memory consolidation and DH cell signaling in males are unknown. Thus, the present study first assessed effects of DH infusion of G-1 or the GPER antagonist G-15 on object recognition and spatial memory consolidation in gonadectomized (GDX) male mice. As in OVX mice, immediate post-training bilateral DH infusion of G-1 enhanced, whereas G-15 impaired, memory consolidation in the object recognition and object placement tasks. However, G-1 did not increase levels of phosphorylated JNK (p46, p54) or cofilin in the DH 5, 15, or 30 min after infusion, nor did it affect phosphorylation of ERK (p42, p44), PI3K, or Akt. Levels of phospho-cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) were elevated in the DH 30 min following G-1 infusion, indicating that GPER in males activates a yet unknown signaling mechanism that triggers CREB-mediated gene transcription. Our findings show for the first time that GPER in the DH regulates memory consolidation in males and suggests sex differences in underlying signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo D B Machado
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States of America
| | - Alexis L Schnitzler
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States of America
| | - Aaron W Fleischer
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States of America
| | - Sarah B Beamish
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States of America
| | - Karyn M Frick
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States of America.
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6
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Vajaria R, Davis D, Thaweepanyaporn K, Dovey J, Nasuto S, Delivopoulos E, Tamagnini F, Knight P, Vasudevan N. Estrogen and testosterone secretion from the mouse brain. Steroids 2024; 204:109398. [PMID: 38513983 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2024.109398] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen and testosterone are typically thought of as gonadal or adrenal derived steroids that cross the blood brain barrier to signal via both rapid nongenomic and slower genomic signalling pathways. Estrogen and testosterone signalling has been shown to drive interlinked behaviours such as social behaviours and cognition by binding to their cognate receptors in hypothalamic and forebrain nuclei. So far, acute brain slices have been used to study short-term actions of 17β-estradiol, typically using electrophysiological measures. For example, these techniques have been used to investigate, nongenomic signalling by estrogen such as the estrogen modulation of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus. Using a modified method that preserves the slice architecture, we show, for the first time, that acute coronal slices from the prefrontal cortex and from the hypothalamus maintained in aCSF over longer periods i.e. 24 h can be steroidogenic, increasing their secretion of testosterone and estrogen. We also show that the hypothalamic nuclei produce more estrogen and testosterone than the prefrontal cortex. Therefore, this extended acute slice system can be used to study the regulation of steroid production and secretion by discrete nuclei in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Vajaria
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - DeAsia Davis
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | | | - Janine Dovey
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Slawomir Nasuto
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | | | | | - Philip Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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7
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González-Burgos I, Velázquez-Zamora DA, González-Tapia D. Estradiol-mediated modulation of memory and of the underlying dendritic spine plasticity through the life span. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:411-423. [PMID: 37966087 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The morphophysiology of the nervous system changes and adapts in response to external environmental inputs and the experiences of individuals throughout their lives. Other changes in the organisms internal environment can also contribute to nervous system restructuring in the form of plastic changes that underlie its capacity to adapt to emerging psychophysiological conditions. These adaptive processes lead to subtle modifications of the organisms internal homeostasis which is closely related with the activity of chemical messengers, such as neurotransmitters and hormones. Hormones reach the brain through the bloodstream, where they activate specific receptors through which certain biochemical, physiological, and morphological changes take place in numerous regions. Fetal development, infancy, puberty, and adulthood are all periods of substantial hormone-mediated brain remodeling in both males and females. Adulthood, specifically, is associated with a broad range of life events, including reproductive cycles in both sexes, and pregnancy and menopause in women. Events of this kind occur concomitantly with eventual modifications in behavioral performance and, especially, in cognitive abilities like learning and memory that underlie, at least in part, plastic changes in the dendritic spines of the neuronal cells in cerebral areas involved in processing cognitive information. Estrogens form a family that consists of three molecules [17β-estradiol (E2), estrone, estriol] which are deeply involved in regulating numerous bodily functions in different stages of the life-cycle, including the modulation of cognitive performance. This review addresses the effects of E2 on the dendritic spine-mediated synaptic organization of cognitive performance throughout the life span.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David González-Tapia
- Department of Health-disease as an individual and collective process, Health Division, Tlajomulco University Centre, University of Guadalajara, Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Jalisco, México
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8
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Ramachandra A, Thomas EHX, Vincent AJ, Hickey M, Warren N, Kulkarni J, Forrest LE, Bojadzieva J, Campbell A, Gurvich C. Subjective cognitive changes following premenopausal risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Climacteric 2023; 26:625-631. [PMID: 37751773 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2256659] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Women at high risk of ovarian cancer are commonly advised to undergo risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) prior to natural menopause. Cognitive symptoms during natural menopause transition are frequently reported; however, very few studies have examined cognitive changes following surgical menopause. To address this gap, we explored the cognitive experiences of women within 24 months post BSO. METHODS This observational cross-sectional sub-study is part of a larger project, the Early Menopause and Cognition Study (EM-COG). We investigated perceived cognitive experiences in Australian women (n = 16) who underwent risk-reducing BSO using qualitative interviews. Thematic analysis was undertaken to identify key themes. RESULTS Fifteen out of 16 participants (93.75%) reported changes to cognition within 24 months post BSO. The key cognitive symptoms reported were brain fog, memory and retrieval difficulties, slower processing speed as well as attention difficulties. Five participants (31.3%) experienced negative mood symptoms post BSO. CONCLUSION Findings from this study suggest that women experience subjective cognitive changes within 24 months post BSO. This period could be a vulnerable time for women's cognitive health. While these findings need to be confirmed by a large prospective study, our research indicates that psychoeducation and awareness will be helpful in managing cognitive symptoms after surgical menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ramachandra
- HER Centre Australia, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - E H X Thomas
- HER Centre Australia, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - A J Vincent
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - M Hickey
- Women's Gynaecology Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - N Warren
- School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - J Kulkarni
- HER Centre Australia, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - L E Forrest
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - J Bojadzieva
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - A Campbell
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - C Gurvich
- HER Centre Australia, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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9
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Boyd HM, Frick KM, Kwapis JL. Connecting the Dots: Potential Interactions Between Sex Hormones and the Circadian System During Memory Consolidation. J Biol Rhythms 2023; 38:537-555. [PMID: 37464775 PMCID: PMC10615791 DOI: 10.1177/07487304231184761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Both the circadian clock and sex hormone signaling can strongly influence brain function, yet little is known about how these 2 powerful modulatory systems might interact during complex neural processes like memory consolidation. Individually, the molecular components and action of each of these systems have been fairly well-characterized, but there is a fundamental lack of information about how these systems cooperate. In the circadian system, clock genes function as timekeeping molecules that convey time-of-day information on a well-stereotyped cycle that is governed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Keeping time is particularly important to synchronize various physiological processes across the brain and body, including those that regulate memory consolidation. Similarly, sex hormones are powerful modulators of memory, with androgens, estrogens, and progestins, all influencing memory consolidation within memory-relevant brain regions like the hippocampus. Despite clear evidence that each system can influence memory individually, exactly how the circadian and hormonal systems might interact to impact memory consolidation remains unclear. Research investigating either sex hormone action or circadian gene function within memory-relevant brain regions has unveiled several notable places in which the two systems could interact to control memory. Here, we bring attention to known interactions between the circadian clock and sex hormone signaling. We then review sex hormone-mediated control of memory consolidation, highlighting potential nodes through which the circadian system might interact during memory formation. We suggest that the bidirectional relationship between these two systems is essential for proper control of memory formation based on an animal's hormonal and circadian state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M. Boyd
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
- Center for Eukaryotic Gene Regulation, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Karyn M. Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Janine L. Kwapis
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
- Center for Eukaryotic Gene Regulation, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
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10
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Balderan A, Farrokhifar Y, Hosseini M, Khordad E, Askarian S, Kakhki S, Beheshti F. Assessment of the neuroprotective effect of Cocos nucifera L. oil on learning and behavior impairment in ovariectomized rats. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2023; 13:665-674. [PMID: 38106629 PMCID: PMC10719724 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2023.22724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective The current study aimed to investigate whether Cocos nucifera L. oil (CO) is effective on menopause-related memory dysfunction in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Materials and Methods Fifty healthy female Wistar rats were randomly selected and classified into five groups as control, OVX rats, and three OVX groups of rats which received three different doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day) of CO for five consecutive weeks by gavage. To assess the effect of CO, neurobehavioral tests such as Morris water maze (MWM) and Passive avoidance (PA) were done and then the animals were sacrificed to remove cortical and hippocampal tissues for biochemical analysis. Results In both behavioral tests including MWM and PA, treatment with CO particularly two higher doses of 200, and 400 mg/kg demonstrated significant improvement in comparison with OVX group. Furthermore, antioxidant biomarkers such as total thiol content, catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were significantly higher in the OVX-CO groups versus the OVX group. On the contrary, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration as an oxidative stress biomarker was remarkably lower in the OVX-CO200 and 400 mg groups than the OVX group. Conclusion The present study demonstrated the significant improvement of CO on learning and memory impairment induced by ovariectomy. Although the exact mechanism needs further investigation, it might have occurred due to the anti-oxidative effect of CO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Balderan
- Student Research Committee, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Yasamin Farrokhifar
- Student Research Committee, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hosseini
- Division of Neurocognitive Sciences, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elnaz Khordad
- Neuroscience Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Departments of Physiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Askarian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Samaneh Kakhki
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Farimah Beheshti
- Neuroscience Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Departments of Physiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
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11
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Garcia-Segura LM, Méndez P, Arevalo MA, Azcoitia I. Neuroestradiol and neuronal development: Not an exclusive male tale anymore. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 71:101102. [PMID: 37689249 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101102] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The brain synthesizes a variety of neurosteroids, including neuroestradiol. Inhibition of neuroestradiol synthesis results in alterations in basic neurodevelopmental processes, such as neurogenesis, neuroblast migration, neuritogenesis and synaptogenesis. Although the neurodevelopmental actions of neuroestradiol are exerted in both sexes, some of them are sex-specific, such as the well characterized effects of neuroestradiol derived from the metabolism of testicular testosterone during critical periods of male brain development. In addition, recent findings have shown sex-specific actions of neuroestradiol on neuroblast migration, neuritic growth and synaptogenesis in females. Among other factors, the epigenetic regulation exerted by X linked genes, such as Kdm6a/Utx, may determine sex-specific actions of neuroestradiol in the female brain. This review evidences the impact of neuroestradiol on brain formation in both sexes and highlights the interaction of neural steriodogenesis, hormones and sex chromosomes in sex-specific brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto Nacional de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pablo Méndez
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Angeles Arevalo
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto Nacional de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Iñigo Azcoitia
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto Nacional de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, C José Antonio Nováis 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Lutshumba J, Wilcock DM, Monson NL, Stowe AM. Sex-based differences in effector cells of the adaptive immune system during Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 184:106202. [PMID: 37330146 PMCID: PMC10481581 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) present with many challenges due to the heterogeneity of the related disease(s), making it difficult to develop effective treatments. Additionally, the progression of ADRD-related pathologies presents differently between men and women. With two-thirds of the population affected with ADRD being women, ADRD has presented itself with a bias toward the female population. However, studies of ADRD generally do not incorporate sex-based differences in investigating the development and progression of the disease, which is detrimental to understanding and treating dementia. Additionally, recent implications for the adaptive immune system in the development of ADRD bring in new factors to be considered as part of the disease, including sex-based differences in immune response(s) during ADRD development. Here, we review the sex-based differences of pathological hallmarks of ADRD presentation and progression, sex-based differences in the adaptive immune system and how it changes with ADRD, and the importance of precision medicine in the development of a more targeted and personalized treatment for this devastating and prevalent neurodegenerative condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Lutshumba
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Donna M Wilcock
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America; Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Nancy L Monson
- Department of Neurology and Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States of America
| | - Ann M Stowe
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America; Center for Advanced Translational Stroke Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America.
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13
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Huang Y, Sun W, Gao F, Ma H, Yuan T, Liu Z, Liu H, Hu J, Bai J, Zhang X, Wang R. Brain-Derived Estrogen Regulates Neurogenesis, Learning and Memory with Aging in Female Rats. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:760. [PMID: 37372046 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Although 17β-estradiol (E2) can be locally synthesized in the brain, whether and how brain-derived E2 (BDE2) impacts neurogenesis with aging is largely unclear. In this study, we examined the hippocampal neural stem cells, neurogenesis, and gliogenesis of 1, 3, 6, 14, and 18-month (Mon) female rats. Female forebrain neuronal aromatase knockout (FBN-ARO-KO) rats and letrozole-treated rats were also employed. We demonstraed that (1) the number of neural stem cells declined over 14-Mon age, and the differentiation of astrocytes and microglia markedly elevated and exhibited excessive activation. KO rats showed declines in astrocyte A2 subtype and elevation in A1 subtype at 18 Mon; (2) neurogenesis sharply dropped from 1-Mon age; (3) KO suppressed dentate gyrus (DG) neurogenesis at 1, 6 and 18 Mon. Additionally, KO and letrozole treatment led to declined neurogenesis at 1-Mon age, compared to age-matched WT controls; (4) FBN-ARO-KO inhibited CREB-BDNF activation, and decreased protein levels of neurofilament, spinophilin and PSD95. Notably, hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory was impaired in juvenile (1 Mon) and adulthood (6 Mon) KO rats. Taken together, we demonstrated that BDE2 plays a pivotal role for hippocampal neurogenesis, as well as learning and memory during female aging, especially in juvenile and middle age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Huang
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Wuxiang Sun
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Fujia Gao
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Haoran Ma
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Tao Yuan
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Zixuan Liu
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Huiyu Liu
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jiewei Hu
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jing Bai
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Ruimin Wang
- Neurobiology Institute, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
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14
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Wang J, Pratap UP, Lu Y, Sareddy GR, Tekmal RR, Vadlamudi RK, Brann DW. Development and Characterization of Inducible Astrocyte-Specific Aromatase Knockout Mice. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:621. [PMID: 37106821 PMCID: PMC10135694 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
17β-estradiol (E2) is produced in the brain as a neurosteroid, in addition to being an endocrine signal in the periphery. The current animal models for studying brain-derived E2 include global and conditional non-inducible knockout mouse models. The aim of this study was to develop a tamoxifen (TMX)-inducible astrocyte-specific aromatase knockout mouse line (GFAP-ARO-iKO mice) to specifically deplete the E2 synthesis enzymes and aromatase in astrocytes after their development in adult mice. The characterization of the GFAP-ARO-iKO mice revealed a specific and robust depletion in the aromatase expressions of their astrocytes and a significant decrease in their hippocampal E2 levels after a GCI. The GFAP-ARO-iKO animals were alive and fertile and had a normal general brain anatomy, with a normal astrocyte shape, intensity, and distribution. In the hippocampus, after a GCI, the GFAP-ARO-iKO animals showed a major deficiency in their reactive astrogliosis, a dramatically increased neuronal loss, and increased microglial activation. These findings indicate that astrocyte-derived E2 (ADE2) regulates the ischemic induction of reactive astrogliosis and microglial activation and is neuroprotective in the ischemic brain. The GFAP-ARO-iKO mouse models thus provide an important new model to help elucidate the roles and functions of ADE2 in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Uday P. Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yujiao Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Gangadhara R. Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Rajeshwar R. Tekmal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Ratna K. Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Darrell W. Brann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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15
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Aspesi D, Bass N, Kavaliers M, Choleris E. The role of androgens and estrogens in social interactions and social cognition. Neuroscience 2023:S0306-4522(23)00151-3. [PMID: 37080448 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal hormones are becoming increasingly recognized for their effects on cognition. Estrogens, in particular, have received attention for their effects on learning and memory that rely upon the functioning of various brain regions. However, the impacts of androgens on cognition are relatively under investigated. Testosterone, as well as estrogens, have been shown to play a role in the modulation of different aspects of social cognition. This review explores the impact of testosterone and other androgens on various facets of social cognition including social recognition, social learning, social approach/avoidance, and aggression. We highlight the relevance of considering not only the actions of the most commonly studied steroids (i.e., testosterone, 17β-estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone), but also that of their metabolites and precursors, which interact with a plethora of different receptors and signalling molecules, ultimately modulating behaviour. We point out that it is also essential to investigate the effects of androgens, their precursors and metabolites in females, as prior studies have mostly focused on males. Overall, a comprehensive analysis of the impact of steroids such as androgens on behaviour is fundamental for a full understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying social cognition, including that of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Aspesi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph
| | - Noah Bass
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph
| | - Martin Kavaliers
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph; Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph.
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16
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Prengel TM, Brunne B, Habiballa M, Rune GM. Sexually differentiated microglia and CA1 hippocampal synaptic connectivity. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13276. [PMID: 37170708 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13276] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Microglia have been shown to sculpt postnatal circuitry from birth up to adulthood due to their role in both synapse formation, synaptic pruning, and the elimination of weak, redundant synapses. Microglia are differentiated in a sex-dependent manner. In this study, we tested whether sexual differentiation of microglia results in sex-dependent postnatal reorganization of CA1 synaptic connectivity in the hippocampus. The stereological counting of synapses in mice using electron microscopy showed a continuous rise in synapse density until the fourth week, followed by a plateau phase and loss of synapses from the eighth week onwards, with no difference between sexes. This course of alteration in synapse numbers did not differ between sexes. However, selectively, on postnatal day (P) 14 the density of synapses was significantly higher in the female than in the male hippocampus. Higher synapse density in females was paralleled by higher activity of microglia, as indicated by morphological changes, CD68 expression, and proximity of microglia to synaptic sites. In Thy1-GFP mice, consistent with increased synapse numbers, bouton density was also clearly increased in females at P14. At this time point, CD47 expression, the "don't eat me" signal of neurons, was similar in males and females. The decrease in bouton density thereafter in conjunction with increased synapse numbers argues for a role of microglia in the formation of multispine boutons (MSB). Our data in females at P14 support the regulatory role of microglia in synapse density. Sexual differentiation of microglia, however, does not substantially affect long-term synaptic reorganization in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim M Prengel
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bianka Brunne
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Moataz Habiballa
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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17
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Fleming B, Edison P, Kenny L. Cognitive impairment after cancer treatment: mechanisms, clinical characterization, and management. BMJ 2023; 380:e071726. [PMID: 36921926 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-071726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a debilitating side effect experienced by patients with cancer treated with systemically administered anticancer therapies. With around 19.3 million new cases of cancer worldwide in 2020 and the five year survival rate growing from 50% in 1970 to 67% in 2013, an urgent need exists to understand enduring side effects with severe implications for quality of life. Whereas cognitive impairment associated with chemotherapy is recognized in patients with breast cancer, researchers have started to identify cognitive impairment associated with other treatments such as immune, endocrine, and targeted therapies only recently. The underlying mechanisms are diverse and therapy specific, so further evaluation is needed to develop effective therapeutic interventions. Drug and non-drug management strategies are emerging that target mechanistic pathways or the cognitive deficits themselves, but they need to be rigorously evaluated. Clinically, consistent use of objective diagnostic tools is necessary for accurate diagnosis and clinical characterization of cognitive impairment in patients treated with anticancer therapies. This should be supplemented with clinical guidelines that could be implemented in daily practice. This review summarizes the recent advances in the mechanisms, clinical characterization, and novel management strategies of cognitive impairment associated with treatment of non-central nervous system cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Fleming
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Edison
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Laura Kenny
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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18
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Datta G, Miller NM, Chen X. 17⍺-Estradiol Protects against HIV-1 Tat-Induced Endolysosome Dysfunction and Dendritic Impairments in Neurons. Cells 2023; 12:813. [PMID: 36899948 PMCID: PMC10000619 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV-1 Tat continues to play an important role in the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), which persist in 15-55% of people living with HIV even with virological control. In the brain, Tat is present on neurons, where Tat exerts direct neuronal damaging effects by, at least in part, disrupting endolysosome functions, a pathological feature present in HAND. In this study, we determined the protective effects of 17α-estradiol (17αE2), the predominant form of estrogen in the brain, against Tat-induced endolysosome dysfunction and dendritic impairment in primary cultured hippocampal neurons. We demonstrated that pre-treatment with 17αE2 protected against Tat-induced endolysosome dysfunction and reduction in dendritic spine density. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) knockdown impairs the ability of 17αE2 to protect against Tat-induced endolysosome dysfunction and reduction in dendritic spine density. Furthermore, over-expressing an ERα mutant that fails to localize on endolysosomes impairs 17αE2's protective effects against Tat-induced endolysosome dysfunction and reduction in dendritic spine density. Our findings demonstrate that 17αE2 protects against Tat-induced neuronal injury via a novel ERα-mediated and endolysosome-dependent pathway, and such a finding might lead to the development of novel adjunct therapeutics against HAND.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xuesong Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND 58203, USA
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19
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Androgens and NGF Mediate the Neurite-Outgrowth through Inactivation of RhoA. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030373. [PMID: 36766714 PMCID: PMC9913450 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030373] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones and growth factors control neuritogenesis through their cognate receptors under physiological and pathological conditions. We have already shown that nerve growth factor and androgens induce neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells through a reciprocal crosstalk between the NGF receptor, TrkA and the androgen receptor. Here, we report that androgens or NGF induce neuritogenesis in PC12 cells through inactivation of RhoA. Ectopic expression of the dominant negative RhoA N19 promotes, indeed, the neurite-elongation of unchallenged and androgen- or NGF-challenged PC12 cells and the increase in the expression levels of βIII tubulin, a specific neuronal marker. Pharmacological inhibition of the Ser/Thr kinase ROCK, an RhoA effector, induces neuritogenesis in unchallenged PC12 cells, and potentiates the effect of androgens and NGF, confirming the role of RhoA/ROCK axis in the neuritogenesis induced by androgen and NGF, through the phosphorylation of Akt. These findings suggest that therapies based on new selective androgen receptor modulators and/or RhoA/ROCK inhibitors might exert beneficial effects in the treatment of neuro-disorders, neurological diseases and ageing-related processes.
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20
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Klotho Regulated by Estrogen Plays a Key Role in Sex Differences in Stress Resilience in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021206. [PMID: 36674721 PMCID: PMC9862442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021206] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Klotho (KL) is a glycosyl hydrolase and aging-suppressor gene. Stress is a risk factor for depression and anxiety, which are highly comorbid with each other. The aim of this study is to determine whether KL is regulated by estrogen and plays an important role in sex differences in stress resilience. Our results showed that KL is regulated by estrogen in rat hippocampal neurons in vivo and in vitro and is essential for the estrogen-mediated increase in the number of presynaptic vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (Vglut1)-positive clusters on the dendrites of hippocampal neurons. The role of KL in sex differences in stress response was examined in rats using 3-week chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). CUMS produced a deficit in spatial learning and memory, anhedonic-like behaviors, and anxiety-like behaviors in male but not female rats, which was accompanied by a reduction in KL protein levels in the hippocampus of male but not female rats. This demonstrated the resilience of female rats to CUMS. Interestingly, the knockdown of KL protein levels in the rat hippocampus of both sexes caused a decrease in stress resilience in both sexes, especially in female rats. These results suggest that the regulation of KL by estrogen plays an important role in estrogen-mediated synapse formation and that KL plays a critical role in the sex differences in cognitive deficit, anhedonic-like behaviors, and anxiety-like behaviors induced by chronic stress in rats, highlighting an important role of KL in sex differences in stress resilience.
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21
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Kumar R, Fatima F, Yadav G, Singh S, Haldar S, Alexiou A, Ashraf GM. Epigenetic Modifications by Estrogen and Androgen in Alzheimer's Disease. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2023; 22:6-17. [PMID: 35232367 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220225110501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
For the development and maintenance of neuron networks in the brain, epigenetic mechanisms are necessary, as indicated by recent findings. This includes some of the high-order brain processes, such as behavior and cognitive functions. Epigenetic mechanisms could influence the pathophysiology or etiology of some neuronal diseases, altering disease susceptibility and therapy responses. Recent studies support epigenetic dysfunctions in neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). These dysfunctions in epigenetic mechanisms also play crucial roles in the transgenerational effects of the environment on the brain and subsequently in the inheritance of pathologies. The possible role of gonadal steroids in the etiology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, has become the subject of a growing body of research over the last 20 years. Recent scientific findings suggest that epigenetic changes, driven by estrogen and androgens, play a vital role in brain functioning. Therefore, exploring the role of estrogen and androgen-based epigenetic changes in the brain is critical for the deeper understanding of AD. This review highlights the epigenetic modifications caused by these two gonadal steroids and the possible therapeutic strategies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Kumar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Faiza Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Garima Yadav
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Simran Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Subhagata Haldar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, 2770 NSW, Australia, and AFNP Med Austria, 1010 Wien, Austria
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Edwards M, Lam S, Ranjan R, Pereira M, Babbitt C, Lacreuse A. Letrozole treatment alters hippocampal gene expression in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus). Horm Behav 2023; 147:105281. [PMID: 36434852 PMCID: PMC9839488 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105281] [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: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are a class of drugs commonly given to patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent breast cancers to reduce estrogenic stimulation. However, AIs like Letrozole are associated with negative side effects such as cognitive deficits, sleep disturbances and hot flashes. We have previously shown that these negative effects can be recapitulated in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) treated with Letrozole (20 μg daily) for 4 weeks and that marmosets treated with Letrozole show increased levels of estradiol in the hippocampus (Gervais et al., 2019). In order to better understand the mechanisms through which AIs affect cognitive function and increase steroid levels in the hippocampus, we used bulk, paired-end RNA-sequencing to examine differentially expressed genes among Letrozole-treated (LET; n = 8) and vehicle-treated (VEH; n = 8) male and female animals. Gene ontology results show significant reduction across hundreds of categories, some of the most significant being inflammatory response, stress response, MHC Class II protein complex binding, T-cell activation, carbohydrate binding and signaling receptor binding in LET animals. GSEA results indicate that LET females, but not LET males, show enrichment for hormonal gene sets. Based on the transcriptional changes observed, we conclude that AIs may differentially affect the sexes in part due to processes mediated by the CYP-450 superfamily. Ongoing studies will further investigate the longitudinal effects of AIs on behavior and whether AIs increase the risk of stress-induced neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélise Edwards
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
| | - Sam Lam
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Ravi Ranjan
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Genomics Resource Laboratory, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Mariana Pereira
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Courtney Babbitt
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Biology, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Agnès Lacreuse
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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23
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Liu M, Lian B, Lan Z, Sun H, Zhao Y, Sun T, Meng Z, Zhao C, Zhang J. Transcriptomic Profile Identifies Hippocampal Sgk1 as the Key Mediator of Ovarian Estrogenic Regulation on Spatial Learning and Memory and Aβ Accumulation. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:3369-3384. [PMID: 35915371 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03690-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that ovarian estrogens are involved in the occurrence and pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through regulation on hippocampal synaptic plasticity and spatial memory; however, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated at the genomic scale. In this study, we established the postmenopausal estrogen-deficient model by ovariectomy (OVX). Then, we used high-throughput Affymetrix Clariom transcriptomics and found 143 differentially expressed genes in the hippocampus of OVX mice with the absolute fold change ≥ 1.5 and P < 0.05. GO analysis showed that the highest enrichment was seen in long-term memory. Combined with the response to steroid hormone enrichment and GeneMANIA network prediction, the serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 gene (Sgk1) was found to be the most potent candidate for ovarian estrogenic regulation. Sgk1 overexpression viral vectors (oSgk1) were then constructed and injected into the hippocampus of OVX mice. Morris water maze test revealed that the impaired spatial learning and memory induced by OVX was rescued by Sgk1 overexpression. Additionally, the altered expression of synaptic proteins and actin remodeling proteins and changes in CA1 spine density and synapse density induced by OVX were also significantly reversed by oSgk1. Moreover, the OVX-induced increase in Aβ-producing BACE1 and Aβ and the decrease in insulin degrading enzyme were significantly reversed by oSgk1. The above results show that multiple pathways and genes are involved in ovarian estrogenic regulation of the function of the hippocampus, among which Sgk1 may be a novel potent target against estrogen-sensitive hippocampal dysfunctions, such as Aβ-initiated AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Liu
- The 305 Hospital of PLA, Beijing, 100017, China.,Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Biyao Lian
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.,Department of Human Anatomy and Tissue Embryology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Zhen Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Huan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.,Center for Brain Science, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Yangang Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, 572013, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zhaoyou Meng
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chengjun Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy and Tissue Embryology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China. .,Medical Sci-Tech Research Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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LaDage LD. Seasonal variation in gonadal hormones, spatial cognition, and hippocampal attributes: More questions than answers. Horm Behav 2022; 141:105151. [PMID: 35299119 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A large body of research has been dedicated to understanding the factors that modulate spatial cognition and attributes of the hippocampus, a highly plastic brain region that underlies spatial processing abilities. Variation in gonadal hormones impacts spatial memory and hippocampal attributes in vertebrates, although the direction of the effect has not been entirely consistent. To add complexity, individuals in the field must optimize fitness by coordinating activities with the appropriate environmental cues, and many of these behaviors are correlated tightly with seasonal variation in gonadal hormone release. As such, it remains unclear if the relationship among systemic gonadal hormones, spatial cognition, and the hippocampus also exhibits seasonal variation. This review presents an overview of the relationship among gonadal hormones, the hippocampus, and spatial cognition, and how the seasonal release of gonadal hormones correlates with seasonal variation in spatial cognition and hippocampal attributes. Additionally, this review presents other neuroendocrine mechanisms that may be involved in modulating the relationship among seasonality, gonadal hormone release, and the hippocampus and spatial cognition, including seasonal rhythms of steroid hormone binding globulins, neurosteroids, sex steroid hormone receptor expression, and hormone interactions. Here, endocrinology, ecology, and behavioral neuroscience are brought together to present an overview of the research demonstrating the mechanistic effects of systemic gonadal hormones on spatial cognition and the hippocampus, while, at a functional level, superimposing seasonal effects to examine ecologically-relevant circannual changes in gonadal hormones and spatial behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara D LaDage
- Penn State Altoona, Division of Mathematics & Natural Sciences, 3000 Ivyside Dr., Altoona, PA 16601, USA.
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Storman EM, Liu NJ, Gintzler AR. Relevance of c-Src and protein phosphatase 2A to aromatase activity: Evidence of an acute self-regulating oestrogenic signalling complex in rat central nervous system. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13089. [PMID: 35043508 PMCID: PMC9038631 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13089] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that aromatase protein levels do not parallel aromatase enzyme activity. This suggests that oestrogenic signalling may be modulated via post-translational modification of aromatase protein. The tyrosine and serine phosphorylation state of aromatase are known to influence its activity. To investigate the possible relevance of aromatase phosphorylation to the incongruity observed between aromatase protein and its activity, we explored interactions between aromatase and the tyrosine kinase c-Src and the serine protein phosphatases 2A and 5 (PP2A and PP5), as well as the relationship between levels of tyrosine-phosphorylated aromatase and the extrapolated aromatase activity. We found that (a) hypothalamic aromatase was significantly more heavily tyrosine-phosphorylated than spinal aromatase; (b) aromatase was oligomerized with c-Src and PP2A/PP5, potentially activating aromatase via tyrosine-phosphorylation and serine-dephosphorylation; (c) the associations of c-Src and PP2A/PP5 with hypothalamic aromatase were substantially greater than with spinal aromatase; and (d) aromatase, oestrogen receptor α, PP2A, and c-Src were present in a common membrane oligomer. The existence of c-Src and PP2A in an oligomer that also contains aromatase and membrane oestrogen receptor α (and presumably other signalling molecules) indicates the presence in the CNS of a potentially self-regulating oestrogenic signalling unit. The degree to which such a complex operates autonomously and the regulatory factors thereof are likely to have substantial physiological implications and clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliya M Storman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Nai-Jiang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Alan R Gintzler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
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Uhl M, Schmeisser MJ, Schumann S. The Sexual Dimorphic Synapse: From Spine Density to Molecular Composition. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:818390. [PMID: 35250477 PMCID: PMC8894598 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.818390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A synaptic sexual dimorphism is relevant in the context of multiple neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Many of these disorders show a different prevalence and progression in woman and man. A similar variance is also present in corresponding animal models. To understand and characterize this dimorphism in pathologies it is important to first understand sex differences in unaffected individuals. Therefore, sexual differences have been studied since 1788, first focusing on brain weight, size, and volume. But as these measures are not directly related to brain function, the investigation of sexual dimorphism also expanded to other organizational levels of the brain. This review is focused on sexual dimorphism at the synaptic level, as these specialized structures are the smallest functional units of the brain, determining cell communication, connectivity, and plasticity. Multiple differences between males and females can be found on the levels of spine density, synaptic morphology, and molecular synapse composition. These differences support the importance of sex-disaggregated data. The specificity of changes to a particular brain region or circuit might support the idea of a mosaic brain, in which each tile individually lies on a continuum from masculinization to feminization. Moreover, synapses can be seen as the smallest tiles of the mosaic determining the classification of larger areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Uhl
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael J. Schmeisser
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- *Correspondence: Michael J. Schmeisser,
| | - Sven Schumann
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Sven Schumann,
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Haggstrom LR, Vardy JL, Carson EK, Segara D, Lim E, Kiely BE. Effects of Endocrine Therapy on Cognitive Function in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040920. [PMID: 35205665 PMCID: PMC8870664 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many persons diagnosed with breast cancer are treated with endocrine therapy and will experience the side effects of endocrine therapy. Cognitive adverse effects of endocrine therapy are increasingly being recognised, and can significantly affect quality of life, adherence and treatment outcome. This review aims to discuss the nature of cognitive dysfunction associated with endocrine therapy, the mechanisms underpinning its development, and evidence-based management strategies. Abstract Endocrine therapy forms the backbone of systemic therapy for the majority of persons with early and late-stage breast cancer. However, the side effects can negatively affect quality of life, and impact treatment adherence and overall oncological outcomes. Adverse effects on cognition are common, underreported and challenging to manage. We aim to describe the nature, incidence, risk factors and underlying mechanisms of endocrine therapy-induced cognitive dysfunction. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the studies reporting on cognitive dysfunction associated with endocrine therapies for breast cancer. We also summarise prevention and treatment strategies, and ongoing research. Given that patients are taking endocrine therapies for longer durations than ever before, it is essential that these side effects are managed pro-actively within a multi-disciplinary team in order to promote adherence to endocrine therapy and improve patients’ quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy R. Haggstrom
- Campbelltown Hospital, Therry Road, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia; (L.R.H.); (E.-K.C.)
| | - Janette L. Vardy
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Concord Cancer Centre, Concord Repatriation and General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Emma-Kate Carson
- Campbelltown Hospital, Therry Road, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia; (L.R.H.); (E.-K.C.)
- Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Davendra Segara
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia;
| | - Elgene Lim
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia;
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (B.E.K.)
| | - Belinda E. Kiely
- Campbelltown Hospital, Therry Road, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia; (L.R.H.); (E.-K.C.)
- Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (B.E.K.)
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Brökling J, Brunne B, Rune GM. Sex-dependent responsiveness of hippocampal neurons to sex neurosteroids: A role of Arc/Arg3.1. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13090. [PMID: 35081672 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids, such as estradiol (E2 ) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), regulate hippocampal plasticity and memory in a sex-dependent manner. Because the activity-regulated cytoskeleton protein Arc/Arg3.1 is essential for long-term memory formation and synaptic plasticity, we investigated the expression of Arc/Arg3.1 with respect to its responsiveness to E2 and DHT in male and female hippocampal neurons. For the first time, we show that, in hippocampal neurons, Arc/Arg3.1 expression is sex-dependently regulated by sex steroids. No difference in the expression between sexes was observed under control conditions. Using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot analysis and quantitative immunoreactivity, upregulation of Arc/Arg3.1 protein expression was observed in specifically female hippocampal neurons after application of E2 to the cultures. Conversely, upregulation of Arc/Arg3.1 was seen in specifically male neurons after application of DHT. A quantitative real-time PCR revealed that the sex-dependency was most pronounced on the mRNA level. Most importantly, the effects of E2 in cultures of female animals were abolished when neuron-derived E2 synthesis was inhibited. Our results point to a potentially important role of Arc/Arg3.1 regarding sex-dependency in sex steroid-induced synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Brökling
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bianka Brunne
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Universitätsmedizin Charité Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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29
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Chen H, Zhang X, Xu C, An S, Ma XM, Qiao H. Endogenous Hippocampal Estrogen Is Involved in Stress-induced Depression-like Behaviors and Spine Plasticity in Male Rats. Neurosci Lett 2022; 785:136560. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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The form, function, and evolutionary significance of neural aromatization. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 64:100967. [PMID: 34808232 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Songbirds have emerged as exceptional research subjects for helping us appreciate and understand estrogen synthesis and function in brain. In the context of recognizing the vertebrate-wide importance of brain aromatase expression, in this review we highlight where we believe studies of songbirds have provided clarification and conceptual insight. We follow by focusing on more recent studies of aromatase and neuroestrogen function in the hippocampus and the pallial auditory processing region NCM of songbirds. With perspectives drawn from this body of work, we speculate that the evolution of enhanced neural estrogen signaling, including in the mediation of social behaviors, may have given songbirds the resilience to radiate into one of the most successful vertebrate groups on the planet.
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Marable CA, Frank CL, Seim RF, Hester S, Henderson WM, Chorley B, Shafer TJ. Integrated Omic Analyses Identify Pathways and Transcriptomic Regulators Associated with Chemical Alterations of in Vitro Neural Network Formation. Toxicol Sci 2021; 186:118-133. [PMID: 34927697 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of in vitro new approach methodologies (NAMs) has been driven by the need for developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) hazard data on thousands of chemicals. The network formation assay (NFA) characterizes DNT hazard based on changes in network formation but provides no mechanistic information. This study investigated nervous system signaling pathways and upstream physiological regulators underlying chemically-induced neural network dysfunction. Rat primary cortical neural networks grown on microelectrode arrays were exposed for 12 days in vitro (DIV) to cytosine arabinoside (CA), 5 fluorouracil (5FU), domoic acid (DA), cypermethrin (CM), deltamethrin (DM), or haloperidol (HP) as these exposures altered network formation in previous studies. RNA-seq from cells and GC/MS analysis of media extracts collected on DIV 12 provided gene expression and metabolomic identification, respectively. The integration of differentially expressed genes and metabolites for each neurotoxicant was analyzed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). All six compounds altered gene expression that linked to developmental disorders and neurological diseases. Other enriched canonical pathways overlapped among compounds of the same class; for example, genes and metabolites altered by both CA and 5FU exposures are enriched in axonal guidance pathways. Integrated analysis of upstream regulators was heterogeneous across compounds, but identified several transcriptomic regulators including CREB1, SOX2, NOTCH1, and PRODH. These results demonstrate that changes in network formation are accompanied by transcriptomic and metabolomic changes and that different classes of compounds produce differing responses. This approach can enhance information obtained from NAMs and contribute to the identification and development of adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) associated with DNT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen A Marable
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711.,Grantee to the U.S. EPA via Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711
| | - Christopher L Frank
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711
| | - Roland F Seim
- Grantee to the U.S. EPA via Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Athens, GA.,Chemical Processes and Systems Branch, Seim, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, 30605
| | - Susan Hester
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711
| | - W Matthew Henderson
- Chemical Processes and Systems Branch, Seim, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, 30605
| | - Brian Chorley
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711
| | - Timothy J Shafer
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711
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Brann DW, Lu Y, Wang J, Sareddy GR, Pratap UP, Zhang Q, Tekmal RR, Vadlamudi RK. Neuron-Derived Estrogen-A Key Neuromodulator in Synaptic Function and Memory. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413242. [PMID: 34948039 PMCID: PMC8706511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to being a steroid hormone, 17β-estradiol (E2) is also a neurosteroid produced in neurons in various regions of the brain of many species, including humans. Neuron-derived E2 (NDE2) is synthesized from androgen precursors via the action of the biosynthetic enzyme aromatase, which is located at synapses and in presynaptic terminals in neurons in both the male and female brain. In this review, we discuss evidence supporting a key role for NDE2 as a neuromodulator that regulates synaptic plasticity and memory. Evidence supporting an important neuromodulatory role of NDE2 in the brain has come from studies using aromatase inhibitors, aromatase overexpression in neurons, global aromatase knockout mice, and the recent development of conditional forebrain neuron-specific knockout mice. Collectively, these studies demonstrate a key role of NDE2 in the regulation of synapse and spine density, efficacy of excitatory synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation, and regulation of hippocampal-dependent recognition memory, spatial reference memory, and contextual fear memory. NDE2 is suggested to achieve these effects through estrogen receptor-mediated regulation of rapid kinase signaling and CREB-BDNF signaling pathways, which regulate actin remodeling, as well as transcription, translation, and transport of synaptic proteins critical for synaptic plasticity and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrell W. Brann
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Yujiao Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Gangadhara R. Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Uday P. Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA;
| | - Rajeshwar R. Tekmal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
| | - Ratna K. Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (G.R.S.); (U.P.P.); (R.R.T.); (R.K.V.)
- Audie L. Murphy Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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Lichtensteiger W, Bassetti-Gaille C, Rehrauer H, Georgijevic JK, Tresguerres JAF, Schlumpf M. Converging Effects of Three Different Endocrine Disrupters on Sox and Pou Gene Expression in Developing Rat Hippocampus: Possible Role of microRNA in Sex Differences. Front Genet 2021; 12:718796. [PMID: 34858468 PMCID: PMC8632217 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.718796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can impair hippocampus-dependent behaviors in rat offspring and in children. In search for key processes underlying this effect, we compared the transcriptomes of rat hippocampus on postnatal day 6 after gestational and lactational exposure to three different EDCs at doses known to impair development of learning and memory. Aroclor 1254, a commercial PCB mixture (5 mg/kg or 0.5 mg/kg), or bisphenol A (5 mg/kg or 0.5 mg/kg) were administered in chow, chlorpyrifos (3 mg/kg or 1 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously. Male hippocampus exhibited a common effect of all three chemicals on genes involved in cell-autonomous processes, Sox6, Sox11, Pou2f2/Oct2, and Pou3f2/Brn2, all upregulated at the high dose. Additional genes of the Sox and Pou families were affected by only one or two of the chemicals. Real time RT PCR showed a comparable expression change for bisphenol A also at the lower dose. Female hippocampus exhibited much fewer genes with expression changes (almost none with false discovery rate <0.05), and none of the genes of the Sox and Pou families was affected. Since gene network analyses in male hippocampus suggested a link between Sox6 and miR-24, known to be repressed by activation of ER-alpha and to repress Sox6 in other tissues, this microRNA was measured. miR-24 was downregulated by all chemicals at the high dose in males. Values of Sox6 mRNA and miR-24 were inversely correlated in individual male hippocampus samples, supporting the hypothesis that the change in Sox6 expression resulted from an action of miR-24. In contrast, miR-24 levels remained unchanged in hippocampus of females. A sexually dimorphic response of miR-24 may thus be at the basis of the sex difference in Sox6 expression changes following exposure to the three chemicals. ER-alpha expression was also sex-dependent, but the expression changes did not parallel those of potential downstream genes such as Sox6. Sox6 is known to suppress differentiation of Parvalbumin (Pvalb)-expressing interneurons. Individual Sox6 levels (FPKM) were inversely correlated with levels of Pvalb, but not with markers of Sox6-independent interneuron subpopulations, Nos1 and 5HT3aR. Effects on interneuron development are further suggested, in males, by expression changes of Nrg1 and its receptor Erbb4, controlling interneuron migration. Our study disclosed new types of EDC-responsive morphogenetic genes, and illustrated the potential relevance of microRNAs in sexually dimorphic EDC actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Lichtensteiger
- GREEN Tox and Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Catherine Bassetti-Gaille
- GREEN Tox and Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hubert Rehrauer
- Functional Genomics Center, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jelena Kühn Georgijevic
- Functional Genomics Center, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Margret Schlumpf
- GREEN Tox and Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Brann DW, Lu Y, Wang J, Zhang Q, Thakkar R, Sareddy GR, Pratap UP, Tekmal RR, Vadlamudi RK. Brain-derived estrogen and neural function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:793-817. [PMID: 34823913 PMCID: PMC8816863 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although classically known as an endocrine signal produced by the ovary, 17β-estradiol (E2) is also a neurosteroid produced in neurons and astrocytes in the brain of many different species. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the localization, regulation, sex differences, and physiological/pathological roles of brain-derived E2 (BDE2). Much of what we know regarding the functional roles of BDE2 has come from studies using specific inhibitors of the E2 synthesis enzyme, aromatase, as well as the recent development of conditional forebrain neuron-specific and astrocyte-specific aromatase knockout mouse models. The evidence from these studies support a critical role for neuron-derived E2 (NDE2) in the regulation of synaptic plasticity, memory, socio-sexual behavior, sexual differentiation, reproduction, injury-induced reactive gliosis, and neuroprotection. Furthermore, we review evidence that astrocyte-derived E2 (ADE2) is induced following brain injury/ischemia, and plays a key role in reactive gliosis, neuroprotection, and cognitive preservation. Finally, we conclude by discussing the key controversies and challenges in this area, as well as potential future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrell W Brann
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
| | - Yujiao Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Roshni Thakkar
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Gangadhara R Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Uday P Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Rajeshwar R Tekmal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Ratna K Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA; Audie L. Murphy Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
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Sexually Dimorphic Neurosteroid Synthesis Regulates Neuronal Activity in the Murine Brain. J Neurosci 2021; 41:9177-9191. [PMID: 34561233 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0885-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones act on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons to regulate reproductive neural circuits in the brain. Kisspeptin neurons start to express estrogen receptors in utero, suggesting steroid hormone action on these cells early during development. Whether neurosteroids are locally produced in the embryonic brain and impinge onto kisspeptin/reproductive neural circuitry is not known. To address this question, we analyzed aromatase expression, a key enzyme in estrogen synthesis, in male and female mouse embryos. We identified an aromatase neuronal network comprising ∼6000 neurons in the hypothalamus and amygdala. By birth, this network has become sexually dimorphic in a cluster of aromatase neurons in the arcuate nucleus adjacent to kisspeptin neurons. We demonstrate that male arcuate aromatase neurons convert testosterone to estrogen to regulate kisspeptin neuron activity. We provide spatiotemporal information on aromatase neuronal network development and highlight a novel mechanism whereby aromatase neurons regulate the activity of distinct neuronal populations expressing estrogen receptors.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Sex steroid hormones, such as estradiol, are important regulators of neural circuits controlling reproductive physiology in the brain. Embryonic kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus express steroid hormone receptors, suggesting hormone action on these cells in utero Whether neurosteroids are locally produced in the brain and impinge onto reproductive neural circuitry is insufficiently understood. To address this question, we analyzed aromatase expression, a key enzyme in estradiol synthesis, in mouse embryos and identified a network comprising ∼6000 neurons in the brain. By birth, this network has become sexually dimorphic in a cluster of aromatase neurons in the arcuate nucleus adjacent to kisspeptin neurons. We demonstrate that male aromatase neurons convert testosterone to estradiol to regulate kisspeptin neuron activity.
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Yang S, Yin Z, Zhu G. A review of the functions of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 in vascular and neurological aging. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 908:174363. [PMID: 34297966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aging-related diseases, especially vascular and neurological disorders cause huge economic burden. How to delay vascular and neurological aging is one of the insurmountable questions. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) has been extensively investigated in recent years due to its multiple biological responses. In this review, the function of GPER in aging-related diseases represented by vascular diseases, and neurological disorders were discussed. Apart from that, activation of GPER was also found to renovate the aging brain characterized by memory decline, but in a manner different from another two nuclear estrogen receptors estrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ. This salutary effect would be better clarified from the aspects of synaptic inputs and transmission. Furthermore, we carefully described molecular mechanisms underpinning GPER-mediated effects. This review would update our understanding of GPER in the aging process. Targeting GPER may represent a promising strategy in the aging-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China
| | - Zhe Yin
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China.
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Brandt N, Vierk R, Fester L, Anstötz M, Zhou L, Heilmann LF, Kind S, Steffen P, Rune GM. Sex-specific Difference of Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity in Response to Sex Neurosteroids. Cereb Cortex 2021; 30:2627-2641. [PMID: 31800024 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhz265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies provide increasing evidence, which supports the ideas that every cell in the brain of males may differ from those in females due to differences in sex chromosome complement as well as in response to hormonal effects. In this study, we address the question as to whether actions of neurosteroids, thus steroids, which are synthesized and function within the brain, contribute to sex-specific hippocampal synaptic plasticity. We have previously shown that predominantly in the female hippocampus, does inhibition of the conversion of testosterone to estradiol affect synaptic transmission. In this study, we show that testosterone and its metabolite dihydrotestosterone are essential for hippocampal synaptic transmission specifically in males. This also holds true for the density of mushroom spines and of spine synapses. We obtained similar sex-dependent results using primary hippocampal cultures of male and female animals. Since these cultures originated from perinatal animals, our findings argue for sex-dependent differentiation of hippocampal neurons regarding their responsiveness to sex neurosteroids up to birth, which persist during adulthood. Hence, our in vitro findings may point to a developmental effect either directly induced by sex chromosomes or indirectly by fetal testosterone secretion during the perinatal critical period, when developmental sexual priming takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Brandt
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ricardo Vierk
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lars Fester
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Max Anstötz
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lepu Zhou
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lukas F Heilmann
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Simon Kind
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul Steffen
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Li X, Johann S, Rune GM, Bender RA. Sex-specific Regulation of Spine Density and Synaptic Proteins by G-protein-coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER)1 in Developing Hippocampus. Neuroscience 2021; 472:35-50. [PMID: 34364953 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled-estrogen-receptor 1 (GPER1) is a membrane-bound receptor that mediates estrogen signaling via intracellular signaling cascades. We recently showed that GPER1 promotes the distal dendritic enrichment of hyperpolarization activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN)1 channels in CA1 stratum lacunosum-moleculare (SLM), suggesting a role of GPER1-mediated signaling in neuronal plasticity. Here we studied whether this role involves processes of structural plasticity, such as the regulation of spine and synapse density in SLM. In organotypic entorhino-hippocampal cultures from mice expressing eGFP, we analyzed spine densities in SLM after treatment with GPER1 agonist G1 (20 nM). G1 significantly increased the density of "non-stubby" spines (maturing spines with a spine head and a neck), but did so only in cultures from female mice. In support of this finding, the expression of synaptic proteins was sex-specifically altered in the cultures: G1 increased the protein (but not mRNA) expression of PSD95 and reduced the p-/n-cofilin ratio only in cultures from females. Application of E2 (2 nM) reproduced the sex-specific effect on spine density in SLM, but only partially on the expression of synaptic proteins. Spine synapse density was, however, not altered after G1-treatment, suggesting that the increased spine density did not translate into an increased spine synapse density in the culture model. Taken together, our results support a role of GPER1 in mediating structural plasticity in CA1 SLM, but suggest that in developing hippocampus, this role is sex-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Li
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sonja Johann
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M Rune
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Roland A Bender
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
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Cardinali CAEF, Martins YA, Torrão AS. Use of Hormone Therapy in Postmenopausal Women with Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review. Drugs Aging 2021; 38:769-791. [PMID: 34342862 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Around two-thirds of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) are women, which could be related to the depletion of female sexual hormones at menopause. The replacement of these hormones with hormone therapy (HT) to possibly decrease AD risk or treat AD patients has generated conflicting results in the literature. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to systematically review the relationship between HT use in postmenopausal women with AD and the risk of developing or treating AD symptoms. DATA SOURCES The PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, Scielo, and Web of Science databases were searched from January 1994 to December 2020 using the descriptors 'Alzheimer Disease OR Alzheimer's Disease' and 'Hormone Replacement Therapy OR Estrogen Replacement Therapy'. STUDY SELECTION Observational and controlled clinical trials including postmenopausal women diagnosed with AD and evaluating HT efficacy were eligible for inclusion. DATA EXTRACTION Extracted data comprise study design, covariates, inclusion criteria for sample selection, AD diagnosis criteria, biases, HT regimen, and cognitive measurement tools used. RESULTS Overall, 25 studies were selected. Among the 14 observational studies, 8 reported an improvement in cognitive function and a decrease in AD risk, especially in younger postmenopausal women. Five observational studies did not demonstrate any association between HT and AD, and one study reported an increase in AD risk, regardless of time of HT initiation. Of the 11 controlled clinical trials included, 7 showed an amelioration in cognitive function after HT. The remaining 4 trials saw no difference between HT and control. CONCLUSION Both observational and controlled clinical trials had methodological issues and discrepancies in inclusion criteria and HT protocols. These inconsistencies made it difficult to establish an association between HT and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila A E F Cardinali
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Av Professor Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Yandara A Martins
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Av Professor Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Andréa S Torrão
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofisica, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Av Professor Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
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40
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Astrocyte-Derived Thrombospondin Induces Cortical Synaptogenesis in a Sex-Specific Manner. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0014-21.2021. [PMID: 34266964 PMCID: PMC8328272 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0014-21.2021] [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: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The regulation of synaptic connectivity in the brain is vital to proper functioning and development of the CNS. Formation of neural networks in the CNS has been shown to be heavily influenced by astrocytes, which secrete factors, including thrombospondin (TSP) family proteins, that promote synaptogenesis. However, whether this process is different between males and females has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we found that cortical neurons purified from newborn male rats showed a significantly more robust synaptogenic response compared with female-derived cells when exposed to factors secreted from astrocytes. This difference was driven largely by the neuronal response to TSP2, which increased synapses in male neurons while showing no effect on female neurons. Blockade of endogenous 17β-estradiol (E2) production with letrozole normalized the TSP response between male and female cells, indicating a level of regulation by estrogen signaling. Our results suggest that male and female neurons show a divergent response to TSP synaptogenic signaling, contributing to sex differences in astrocyte-mediated synaptic connectivity.
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Abaffy T, Matsunami H. 19-hydroxy Steroids in the Aromatase Reaction: Review on Expression and Potential Functions. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab050. [PMID: 34095690 PMCID: PMC8169043 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific evidence related to the aromatase reaction in various biological processes spanning from mid-1960 to today is abundant; however, as our analytical sensitivity increases, a new look at the old chemical reaction is necessary. Here, we review an irreversible aromatase reaction from the substrate androstenedione. It proceeds in 3 consecutive steps. In the first 2 steps, 19-hydroxy steroids are produced. In the third step, estrone is produced. They can dissociate from the enzyme complex and either accumulate in tissues or enter the blood. In this review, we want to highlight the potential importance of these 19-hydroxy steroids in various physiological and pathological conditions. We focus primarily on 19-hydroxy steroids, and in particular on the 19-hydroxyandrostenedione produced by the incomplete aromatase reaction. Using a PubMed database and the search term “aromatase reaction,” 19-hydroxylation of androgens and steroid measurements, we detail the chemistry of the aromatase reaction and list previous and current methods used to measure 19-hydroxy steroids. We present evidence of the existence of 19-hydroxy steroids in brain tissue, ovaries, testes, adrenal glands, prostate cancer, as well as during pregnancy and parturition and in Cushing’s disease. Based on the available literature, a potential involvement of 19-hydroxy steroids in the brain differentiation process, sperm motility, ovarian function, and hypertension is suggested and warrants future research. We hope that with the advancement of highly specific and sensitive analytical methods, future research into 19-hydroxy steroids will be encouraged, as much remains to be learned and discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Abaffy
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Hiroaki Matsunami
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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42
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Feng Y, Tian X, Zhang M, Lou S. Treadmill Exercise Reverses the Change of Dendritic Morphology and Activates BNDF-mTOR Signaling Pathway in the Hippocampus and Cerebral Cortex of Ovariectomized Mice. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:1849-1862. [PMID: 34041687 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01848-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A decline of estrogen level leads to spatial learning and memory impairments, which mediated by hippocampus and cortex. Accumulating evidences demonstrated that aerobic exercise improved memory of postmenopausal women and ovariectomized (OVX) mice. However, the molecular mechanisms for this protection of exercise are not completely clear. Accordingly, the present study was designed to examine the effect of aerobic exercise on the dendritic morphology in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, as well as the BNDF-mTOR signaling pathway of OVX mice. Adult female C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups (n = 10/group): sham-operated (SHAM/CON), sham-operated with 8-week treadmill exercise (SHAM/EX), ovariectomized operated (OVX/CON), and ovariectomized operated with exercise (OVX/EX). Aerobic exercise improved the impairment of dendritic morphology significantly induced by OVX that was tested by Golgi staining, and it also upregulated the synaptic plasticity-related protein expression of PSD95 and GluR1 as well as activated BDNF-mTOR signaling pathway in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. In conclusion, aerobic exercise reversed the change of dendritic morphology and increased the synaptic plasticity-related protein expression in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of OVX mice. The positive effects induced by exercise might be mediated through the BDNF-mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Feng
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Tian
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujie Lou
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China.
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43
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Adu-Nti F, Gao X, Wu JM, Li J, Iqbal J, Ahmad R, Ma XM. Osthole Ameliorates Estrogen Deficiency-Induced Cognitive Impairment in Female Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:641909. [PMID: 34025413 PMCID: PMC8134730 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.641909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of endogenous estrogen and dysregulation of the estrogen receptor signaling pathways are associated with an increase in risk for cognitive deficit and depression in women after menopause. Estrogen therapy for menopause increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and stroke. Therefore, it is critical to find an alternate treatment for menopausal women. Osthole (OST), a coumarin, has been reported to have neuroprotective effects. This study examined whether OST improves ovariectomy (OVX)-induced cognitive impairment, and alleviates anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by OVX in mice. Adult female C57BL/6J mice were ovariectomized and then treated with OST at a dose of 30 mg/kg for 14 days. At the end of the treatment period, behavioral tests were used to evaluate spatial learning and memory, recognition memory, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. A cohort of the mice were sacrificed after 14 days of OST treatment and their hippocampi were collected for measurement of the proteins of interest using western blot. OVX-induced alteration in the levels of proteins was accompanied by cognitive deficit, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. OST treatment improved cognitive deficit, alleviated anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by OVX, and reversed OVX-induced alterations in the levels of synaptic proteins and ERα, BDNF, TrKB, p-CREB, p-Akt and Rac1 in the hippocampus. Therefore, reversal of OVX-induced decrease in the levels of hippocampal proteins by OST might contribute to the effects of OST on improving cognitive deficit and alleviating anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by OVX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Adu-Nti
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Javed Iqbal
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Riaz Ahmad
- Department of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Chinese Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin-Ming Ma
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, United States
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44
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Lan Z, Meng Z, Lian B, Liu M, Sun T, Sun H, Liu Z, Hu Z, Guo Q, Zhang J. Hippocampal Aromatase Knockdown Aggravates Ovariectomy-Induced Spatial Memory Impairment, Aβ Accumulation and Neural Plasticity Deficiency in Adult Female Mice. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1188-1202. [PMID: 33559105 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03258-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian estrogens (mainly 17β estradiol, E2) have been involved in the regulation of the structure of hippocampus, the center of spatial memory. In recent years, high levels of aromatase (AROM), the estrogen synthase, has been localized in hippocampus; and this hippocampus-derived E2 seems to be functional in synaptic plasticity and spatial memory as ovarian E2 does. However, the contribution of ovarian E2 and hippocampal E2 to spatial memory and neural plasticity remains unclear. In this study, AROM-specific RNA interference AAVs (shAROM) were constructed and injected into the hippocampus of control or ovariectomized (OVX) mice. Four weeks later the spatial learning and memory behavior was examined with Morris water maze, the expression of hippocampal Aβ related proteins, selected synaptic proteins and CA1 synapse density, actin polymerization related proteins and CA1 spine density were also examined. The results showed that while OVX and hippocampal shAROM contributed similarly to most of the parameters examined, shAROM induced more increase in BACE1 (amyloidogenic β-secretase), more decrease in neprilysin (Aβ remover) and Profilin-1 (actin polymerization inducer). More importantly, combined OVX and shAROM treatment displayed most significant impairment of spatial learning and memory as well as decrease in synaptic plasticity compared to OVX or shAROM alone. In conclusion, the above results clearly demonstrated the crucial role of hippocampal E2 in the regulation of the structure and function of hippocampus besides ovarian E2, indicating that hippocampal E2 content should also be taken into consideration during estrogenic replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaoyou Meng
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Biyao Lian
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pediatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The 305 Hospital of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The 63650 Hospital of PLA, Malan, China
| | - Huan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Center for Brain Science, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenxin Hu
- Battalion One of Basic Medical Sciences, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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45
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Sex neurosteroids: Hormones made by the brain for the brain. Neurosci Lett 2021; 753:135849. [PMID: 33775739 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In general, hippocampal neurons are capable of synthesizing sex steroids de novo from cholesterol, since the brain is equipped with all the enzymes required for the synthesis of estradiol and testosterone, the end products of sex steroidogenesis. Regarding estradiol, its synthesis in hippocampal neurons is homeostatically controlled by Ca2+ transients and is regulated by GnRH. Locally synthesized estradiol and testosterone maintain synaptic transmission and synaptic connectivity. Remarkably, the neurosteroid estradiol is effective in females, but not in males, and vice versa dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is effective in males, but not in females. Experimentally induced inhibition of estradiol synthesis in females and DHT synthesis in males resp. results in synapse loss, impaired LTP, and downregulation of synaptic proteins. GnRH-induced increase in estradiol synthesis appears to provide a link between the hypothalamus and the hippocampus, which may underlie estrous cyclicity of spine density in the female hippocampus. Hippocampal neurons are sex-dependently differentiated with respect to the responsiveness of hippocampal neurons to sex neurosteroids.
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46
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Bello-Alvarez C, Camacho-Arroyo I. Impact of sex in the prevalence and progression of glioblastomas: the role of gonadal steroid hormones. Biol Sex Differ 2021; 12:28. [PMID: 33752729 PMCID: PMC7986260 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-021-00372-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As in other types of cancers, sex is an essential factor in the origin and progression of glioblastomas. Research in the field of endocrinology and cancer suggests that gonadal steroid hormones play an important role in the progression and prevalence of glioblastomas. In the present review, we aim to discuss the actions and mechanism triggered by gonadal steroid hormones in glioblastomas. MAIN BODY Glioblastoma is the most common malignant primary brain tumor. According to the epidemiological data, glioblastomas are more frequent in men than in women in a 1.6/1 proportion both in children and adults. This evidence, and the knowledge about sex influence over the prevalence of countless diseases, suggest that male gonadal steroid hormones, such as testosterone, promote glioblastomas growth. In contrast, a protective role of female gonadal steroid hormones (estradiol and progesterone) against glioblastomas has been questioned. Several pieces of evidence demonstrate a variety of effects induced by female and male gonadal steroid hormones in glioblastomas. Several studies indicate that pregnancy, a physiological state with the highest progesterone and estradiol levels, accelerates the progression of low-grade astrocytomas to glioblastomas and increases the symptoms associated with these tumors. In vitro studies have demonstrated that progesterone has a dual role in glioblastoma cells: physiological concentrations promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion while very high doses (out physiological range) reduce cell proliferation and increases cell death. CONCLUSION Gonadal steroid hormones can stimulate the progression of glioblastomas through the increase in proliferation, migration, and invasion. However, the effects mentioned above depend on the concentrations of these hormones and the receptor involved in hormone actions. Estradiol and progesterone can exert promoter or protective effects while the role of testosterone has been always associated to glioblastomas progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bello-Alvarez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), 04510, Ciudad de México, México.
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47
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Bustamante-Barrientos FA, Méndez-Ruette M, Ortloff A, Luz-Crawford P, Rivera FJ, Figueroa CD, Molina L, Bátiz LF. The Impact of Estrogen and Estrogen-Like Molecules in Neurogenesis and Neurodegeneration: Beneficial or Harmful? Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:636176. [PMID: 33762910 PMCID: PMC7984366 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.636176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogens and estrogen-like molecules can modify the biology of several cell types. Estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) belong to the so-called classical family of estrogen receptors, while the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER-1) represents a non-classical estrogen receptor mainly located in the plasma membrane. As estrogen receptors are ubiquitously distributed, they can modulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival in several tissues and organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). Estrogens can exert neuroprotective roles by acting as anti-oxidants, promoting DNA repair, inducing the expression of growth factors, and modulating cerebral blood flow. Additionally, estrogen-dependent signaling pathways are involved in regulating the balance between proliferation and differentiation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs), thus influencing neurogenic processes. Since several estrogen-based therapies are used nowadays and estrogen-like molecules, including phytoestrogens and xenoestrogens, are omnipresent in our environment, estrogen-dependent changes in cell biology and tissue homeostasis have gained attention in human health and disease. This article provides a comprehensive literature review on the current knowledge of estrogen and estrogen-like molecules and their impact on cell survival and neurodegeneration, as well as their role in NSPCs proliferation/differentiation balance and neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe A Bustamante-Barrientos
- Immunology Program, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CiiB), Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Cells for Cells, Santiago, Chile
| | - Maxs Méndez-Ruette
- Neuroscience Program, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CiiB), Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexander Ortloff
- Departamento de Ciencias Veterinarias y Salud Pública, Facultad de Recursos Naturales, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | - Patricia Luz-Crawford
- Immunology Program, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CiiB), Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Medicina, School of Medicine, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco J Rivera
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Center for Interdisciplinary Studies on the Nervous System (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Carlos D Figueroa
- Center for Interdisciplinary Studies on the Nervous System (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Laboratory of Cellular Pathology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Luis Molina
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Luis Federico Bátiz
- Neuroscience Program, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CiiB), Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Medicina, School of Medicine, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
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Meng L, Liu J, Wang C, Ouyang Z, Kuang J, Pang Q, Fan R. Sex-specific oxidative damage effects induced by BPA and its analogs on primary hippocampal neurons attenuated by EGCG. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128450. [PMID: 33007573 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BPA analogs, including bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol B (BPB), have been used to replace BPA since it was banned to be added. To investigate whether BPA and its analogs cause oxidative damage effects on primary hippocampal neurons of rats, reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), apoptosis and cell viability assays were conducted after hippocampal neurons exposure to different concentrations of BPA, BPS, and BPB (1, 10, 100 nM and 1, 10, 100 μM). Moreover, the effects of EGCG (5 and 6 μM for male and female, respectively) added on neurons exposed to BPA were assessed. Results showed that 24 h exposure to these bisphenols (BPs) could increase the levels of ROS and contents of MDA, but reduce the activity of SOD significantly. A decline of cell viabilities accompanied with the increasing of apoptosis rates was observed after 7 d exposure to BPs and the reduction of MMP was also observed after 7 d exposure to BPA. Interestingly, BPS has the lower toxicity to hippocampal neurons compared with BPA and BPB. Non-monotonic dose-effect relationships between the concentrations of BPs and the cytotoxic effects were observed, and the effects of BPs on male hippocampal neurons are greater than those of female ones in general. While EGCG can protect neurons free of oxidative damages. In conclusion, the results suggest that BPs may induce sex-specific neurotoxic effects involving oxidative stress, which can be attenuated by EGCG, and males are more sensitive to BPs than females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxue Meng
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Congcong Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Zedong Ouyang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Jiahua Kuang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Qihua Pang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China.
| | - Ruifang Fan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Subtropical Biodiversity and Biomonitoring, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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The Complex Interplay between Endocannabinoid System and the Estrogen System in Central Nervous System and Periphery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020972. [PMID: 33478092 PMCID: PMC7835826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid cell signaling system involved in the physiology and homeostasis of the brain and peripheral tissues. Synaptic plasticity, neuroendocrine functions, reproduction, and immune response among others all require the activity of functional ECS, with the onset of disease in case of ECS impairment. Estrogens, classically considered as female steroid hormones, regulate growth, differentiation, and many other functions in a broad range of target tissues and both sexes through the activation of nuclear and membrane estrogen receptors (ERs), which leads to genomic and non-genomic cell responses. Since ECS function overlaps or integrates with many other cell signaling systems, this review aims at updating the knowledge about the possible crosstalk between ECS and estrogen system (ES) at both central and peripheral level, with focuses on the central nervous system, reproduction, and cancer.
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Marbouti L, Zahmatkesh M, Riahi E, Shafiee Sabet M. GnRH protective effects against amyloid β-induced cognitive decline: A potential role of the 17β-estradiol. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110985. [PMID: 32805333 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 17β-estradiol (E2) enhances hippocampal dendritic spine synapses, facilitates learning processes, and exerts neuroprotection. Brain estrogen decline has been reported in Alzheimer's disease. The role of GnRH in modulating steroid biosynthesis convinced us to examine whether hippocampal GnRH administration could enhance the local E2 levels and overcome the development of cognition decline in amyloid β (Aβ) neurotoxicity. To explore if GnRH acts through regulating E2 synthesis, letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has been applied in combination with GnRH. METHODS Female rats received an intracerebroventricular injection of Aβ. The GnRH and, or letrozole were injected into the CA1 for 14 consecutive days. Working memory, novel object recognition memory, and anxiety-like behavior were evaluated. Serum and hippocampal E2 levels were measured. Hippocampal mRNA expression of GnRH (GnRH-R) and E2 (ERα and ERβ) receptors was assessed. GnRH effect on the excitability of pyramidal cells was studied by in vivo single-unit recording. RESULTS GnRH increased hippocampal E2 levels, evoked an increase in the spontaneous firing of pyramidal neurons, and caused mRNA overexpression of hippocampal GnRH receptors. GnRH prevented the adverse effects of Aβ on working memory, NOR index, and anxiogenic behavior. Letrozole did not reverse GnRH modulatory effects on hippocampal E2 levels and neuroprotection. CONCLUSION GnRH prevented the Aβ-induced memory deficit, which may be mediated through hippocampal E2 levels enhancement. The electrophysiological analysis revealed the enhanced neuronal excitability in the CA1 region. All these data suggest that GnRH might be a promising candidate that reduces anxiety and improves memory indices in the context of Aβ neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Marbouti
- Neuroscience and Addiction Studies Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Zahmatkesh
- Neuroscience and Addiction Studies Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Esmail Riahi
- Physiology Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Shafiee Sabet
- Family Medicine Department, Ziaeian Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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