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Martin TG, Leinwand LA. Hearts apart: sex differences in cardiac remodeling in health and disease. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e180074. [PMID: 38949027 PMCID: PMC11213513 DOI: 10.1172/jci180074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological sex is an important modifier of physiology and influences pathobiology in many diseases. While heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide in both men and women, sex differences exist at the organ and cellular scales, affecting clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. In this Review, we highlight baseline sex differences in cardiac structure, function, and cellular signaling and discuss the contribution of sex hormones and chromosomes to these characteristics. The heart is a remarkably plastic organ and rapidly responds to physiological and pathological cues by modifying form and function. The nature and extent of cardiac remodeling in response to these stimuli are often dependent on biological sex. We discuss organ- and molecular-level sex differences in adaptive physiological remodeling and pathological cardiac remodeling from pressure and volume overload, ischemia, and genetic heart disease. Finally, we offer a perspective on key future directions for research into cardiac sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G. Martin
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Leslie A. Leinwand
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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2
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Kalakh S, Mouihate A. The Effects of Neuroactive Steroids on Myelin in Health and Disease. Med Princ Pract 2024; 33:198-214. [PMID: 38350432 PMCID: PMC11175611 DOI: 10.1159/000537794] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Myelin plays a pivotal role in the efficient transmission of nerve impulses. Disruptions in myelin integrity are associated with numerous neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis. In the central nervous system (CNS), myelin is formed by oligodendrocytes. Remyelination refers to the re-formation of the damaged myelin sheath by newly formed oligodendrocytes. Steroids have gained attention for their potential modulatory effects on myelin in both health and disease. Steroids are traditionally associated with endocrine functions, but their local synthesis within the nervous system has generated significant interest. The term "neuroactive steroids" refers to steroids that can act on cells of the nervous system. In the healthy state, neuroactive steroids promote myelin formation, maintenance, and repair by enhancing oligodendrocyte differentiation and maturation. In pathological conditions, such as demyelination injury, multiple neuroactive steroids have shown promise in promoting remyelination. Understanding the effects of neuroactive steroids on myelin could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for demyelinating diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. This review highlights the potential therapeutic significance of neuroactive steroids in myelin-related health and diseases. We review the synthesis of steroids by neurons and glial cells and discuss the roles of neuroactive steroids on myelin structure and function in health and disease. We emphasize the potential promyelinating effects of the varying levels of neuroactive steroids during different female physiological states such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, lactation, and postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah Kalakh
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- School of Engineering and Computing, American International University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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3
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De Jong KA, Berisha F, Naderpoor N, Appelbe A, Kotowicz MA, Cukier K, McGee SL, Nikolaev VO. Polycystic ovarian syndrome increases prevalence of concentric hypertrophy in normotensive obese women. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263312. [PMID: 35213570 PMCID: PMC8880941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It remains unclear as to whether polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an additional risk factor in the development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy in obese women. In the current study, we provide clarity on this issue by rigorously analysing patient LV geometry beyond the basic clinical measures currently used. Importantly, the cohort contained only normotensive patients that would normally be deemed low risk with no further intervention required. Methods The study comprised 24 obese women with PCOS and 29 obese Control women. Transthoracic echocardiography was used to evaluate LV structure/function. Basic clinical and metabolic data were collected for each participant consisting of age, BMI, blood pressure, fasting glucose, LDL-C, HLD-C, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Exclusion criteria; BMI < 30 g/m2, type 2 diabetes, hypertension. Results Both groups exhibited concentric remodelling of the LV posterior wall at a prevalence of ~20%, this associated with grade 1 diastolic dysfunction. Estimated LV mass/height2.7 was increased patients with PCOS (45 ± 2.2 vs 37 ± 1.6) with 33% exhibiting LV mass/height2.7 above ASE guidelines, compared to 7% in Controls. Furthermore, 25% of patients with PCOS were characterised with concentric hypertrophy, an alteration in LV geometry that was not observed in the Control group. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess LV geometric patterns in obese women with PCOS. The results suggest that obese women with PCOS are at greater risk of concentric hypertrophy than obese only women and provide justification for additional cardiovascular risk assessment in normotensive obese/PCOS women.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Blood Glucose
- Blood Pressure
- Cholesterol/blood
- Cholesterol, HDL/blood
- Cholesterol, LDL/blood
- Echocardiography
- Female
- Heart Failure, Diastolic/complications
- Heart Failure, Diastolic/diagnostic imaging
- Heart Failure, Diastolic/pathology
- Heart Ventricles/diagnostic imaging
- Heart Ventricles/pathology
- Humans
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/blood
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/diagnosis
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/diagnostic imaging
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/etiology
- Obesity/blood
- Obesity/complications
- Obesity/diagnostic imaging
- Obesity/pathology
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/blood
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/complications
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/diagnostic imaging
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/pathology
- Triglycerides/blood
- Ventricular Function, Left/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstie A. De Jong
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
- Metabolic Reprogramming Laboratory, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Metabolic Research Unit, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Filip Berisha
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Negar Naderpoor
- Geelong Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alan Appelbe
- Cardiology Department, Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A. Kotowicz
- Endocrinology Department, Barwon Health, University Hospital, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Deakin University, School of Medicine, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kimberly Cukier
- Geelong Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sean L. McGee
- Metabolic Reprogramming Laboratory, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Metabolic Research Unit, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Viacheslav O. Nikolaev
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
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4
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Andreucci M, Rigiracciolo DC, Bracale UM, Ielapi N, Provenzano M, D'Iuorno D, Michael A, Mastroroberto P, Serraino GF, Maggiolini M, Serra R. Assessment of androgen receptor, IGF-IR and insulin receptor expression in male patients with severe peripheral artery disease. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08756. [PMID: 35059526 PMCID: PMC8760540 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e08756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Peripheral artery disease (PAD) of the lower limbs is a common condition that can affect quality of life. Androgen receptor (AR) can exert sex-specific effects on metabolic system, endothelial function and vascular tone. IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) and insulin receptor (IR) may also be involved in the aforementioned functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate AR, IGF-IR and IR expression in the arterial vessel walls of PAD patients. Results This is a cross-sectional study examining 30 males with PAD undergoing open surgery procedures. Mean age was 75.9 ± 8.8y. All patients belonged to Rutherford stage 4–6. Median expression levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR significantly decreased from stage 4–6 (p < 0.05). Significance The study evidenced a progressive decrease of IR, IGF-IR and AR expression as the severity of disease increased. Altered levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR following PAD may be useful for the clinical evaluation of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Andreucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Nephrology Unit, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Umberto Marcello Bracale
- Department of Public Health, Vascular Surgery Unit, University of Naples "Federico II", I-80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Ielapi
- Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, I-00185 Roma, Italy.,Interuniversity Center of Phlebolymphology (CIFL), International Research and Educational Program in Clinical and Experimental Biotechnology" at the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michele Provenzano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Diletta D'Iuorno
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ashour Michael
- Department of Health Sciences, Nephrology Unit, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pasquale Mastroroberto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutrition Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036, Rende CS, Italy
| | - Raffaele Serra
- Interuniversity Center of Phlebolymphology (CIFL), International Research and Educational Program in Clinical and Experimental Biotechnology" at the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro, I-88100, Catanzaro, Italy
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5
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Takashima A, Yagi S, Yamaguchi K, Kurahashi K, Kojima Y, Zheng R, Ise T, Kusunose K, Yoshida S, Yamada H, Soeki T, Wakatsuki T, Aihara KI, Akaike M, Sata M. Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism with Early-Onset Coronary Artery Disease. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2021; 68:189-191. [PMID: 33994469 DOI: 10.2152/jmi.68.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
The patient with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) shows low serum levels of androgen, which is a group of sex hormones including testosterone, caused by the decreased gonadotropin release in the hypothalamus. Recent reports showed androgens exert protective effects against insulin resistance or atherosclerotic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus or coronary artery disease. However, whether the juvenile hypogonadism affects the diabetes or cardiovascular disease is unclear. We report a case of a middle-aged man with congenital HH who had severe coronary artery disease complicated with metabolic disorders. J. Med. Invest. 68 : 189-191, February, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Takashima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kitajima Taoka Hospital, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shusuke Yagi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Koji Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kiyoe Kurahashi
- Department of Haematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuko Kojima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Robert Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ise
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kenya Kusunose
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Sumiko Yoshida
- Department of Haematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hirotsugu Yamada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Soeki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuzo Wakatsuki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Aihara
- epartment of Community Medicine for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masashi Akaike
- Department of Medical Education, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masataka Sata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
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Troncoso MF, Pavez M, Wilson C, Lagos D, Duran J, Ramos S, Barrientos G, Silva P, Llanos P, Basualto-Alarcón C, Westenbrink BD, Lavandero S, Estrada M. Testosterone activates glucose metabolism through AMPK and androgen signaling in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Biol Res 2021; 54:3. [PMID: 33546773 PMCID: PMC7863443 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-021-00328-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Testosterone regulates nutrient and energy balance to maintain protein synthesis and metabolism in cardiomyocytes, but supraphysiological concentrations induce cardiac hypertrophy. Previously, we determined that testosterone increased glucose uptake—via AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)—after acute treatment in cardiomyocytes. However, whether elevated glucose uptake is involved in long-term changes of glucose metabolism or is required during cardiomyocyte growth remained unknown. In this study, we hypothesized that glucose uptake and glycolysis increase in testosterone-treated cardiomyocytes through AMPK and androgen receptor (AR). Methods Cultured cardiomyocytes were stimulated with 100 nM testosterone for 24 h, and hypertrophy was verified by increased cell size and mRNA levels of β-myosin heavy chain (β-mhc). Glucose uptake was assessed by 2-NBDG. Glycolysis and glycolytic capacity were determined by measuring extracellular acidification rate (ECAR). Results Testosterone induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy that was accompanied by increased glucose uptake, glycolysis enhancement and upregulated mRNA expression of hexokinase 2. In addition, testosterone increased AMPK phosphorylation (Thr172), while inhibition of both AMPK and AR blocked glycolysis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by testosterone. Moreover, testosterone supplementation in adult male rats by 5 weeks induced cardiac hypertrophy and upregulated β-mhc, Hk2 and Pfk2 mRNA levels. Conclusion These results indicate that testosterone stimulates glucose metabolism by activation of AMPK and AR signaling which are critical to induce cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40659-021-00328-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayarling Francisca Troncoso
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mario Pavez
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Wilson
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniel Lagos
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javier Duran
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Ramos
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Genaro Barrientos
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Patricio Silva
- Faculty of Health Science, Universidad Central de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paola Llanos
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carla Basualto-Alarcón
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Aysén, 5951537, Coyhaique, Chile.,Departamento de Anatomía y Medicina Legal, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Santiago, Chile
| | - B Daan Westenbrink
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sergio Lavandero
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Facultad Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas and Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiology Division), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Manuel Estrada
- Programa de Fisiología Y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, 8389100, Independencia, Santiago, Chile.
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Zacharski M, Tomaszek A, Kiczak L, Ugorski M, Bania J, Pasławska U, Rybinska I, Jankowska EA, Janiszewski A, Ponikowski P. Catabolic/Anabolic Imbalance Is Accompanied by Changes of Left Ventricular Steroid Nuclear Receptor Expression in Tachycardia-Induced Systolic Heart Failure in Male Pigs. J Card Fail 2021; 27:682-692. [PMID: 33450412 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Steroid hormones play an important role in heart failure (HF) pathogenesis, and clinical data have revealed disordered steroidogenesis in male patients with HF. However, there is still a lack of studies on steroid hormones and their receptors during HF progression. Therefore, a porcine model of tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy corresponding to HF was used to assess steroid hormone concentrations in serum and their nuclear receptor levels in heart tissue during the consecutive stages of HF. METHODS AND RESULTS Male pigs underwent right ventricular pacing and developed a clinical picture of mild, moderate, or severe HF. Serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol, aldosterone, and cortisol were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Androgen receptor, estrogen receptor alpha, mineralocorticoid receptor, and glucocorticoid receptor messenger RNA levels in the left ventricle were determined by qPCR.The androgen level decreased in moderate and severe HF animals, while the corticosteroid level increased. The estradiol concentration remained stable. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed the downregulation of androgen receptor in consecutive stages of HF and increased expression of mineralocorticoid receptor messenger RNA under these conditions. CONCLUSIONS In the HF pig model, deteriorated catabolic/anabolic balance, manifested by upregulation of aldosterone and cortisol and downregulation of androgen signaling on the ligand level, was augmented by changes in steroid hormone receptor expression in the heart tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Zacharski
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Alicja Tomaszek
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Pathology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Liliana Kiczak
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Ugorski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Bania
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Food Hygiene and Consumer Health Protection, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Pasławska
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Science, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University Toruń, Poland; Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Rybinska
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Molecular Targeting Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Italy
| | - Ewa Anita Jankowska
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Heart Diseases, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; Centre for Heart Diseases, University Hospital, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Adrian Janiszewski
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Internal Disease and Veterinary Diagnosis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Piotr Ponikowski
- Regional Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw - Research and Development Centre, Wroclaw, Poland; Department of Heart Diseases, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; Centre for Heart Diseases, University Hospital, Wroclaw, Poland
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8
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Diaconu R, Donoiu I, Mirea O, Bălşeanu TA. Testosterone, cardiomyopathies, and heart failure: a narrative review. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:348-356. [PMID: 33433530 PMCID: PMC8269837 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_80_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone exerts an important regulation of cardiovascular function through genomic and nongenomic pathways. It produces several changes in cardiomyocytes, the main actor of cardiomyopathies, which are characterized by pathological remodeling, eventually leading to heart failure. Testosterone is involved in contractility, in the energy metabolism of myocardial cells, apoptosis, and the remodeling process. In myocarditis, testosterone directly promotes the type of inflammation that leads to fibrosis, and influences viremia with virus localization. At the same time, testosterone exerts cardioprotective effects that have been observed in different studies. There is increasing evidence that low endogenous levels of testosterone have a negative impact in some cardiomyopathies and a protective impact in others. This review focuses on the interrelationships between testosterone and cardiomyopathies and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodica Diaconu
- Department of Cardiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova 200349, Romania
| | - Ionuţ Donoiu
- Department of Cardiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova 200349, Romania
| | - Oana Mirea
- Department of Cardiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova 200349, Romania
| | - Tudor Adrian Bălşeanu
- Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova 200349, Romania
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9
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Noroozzadeh M, Raoufy MR, Bidhendi Yarandi R, Faraji Shahrivar F, Moghimi N, Ramezani Tehrani F. Cardiac function and tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion injury in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome during the postmenopausal period. Life Sci 2020; 262:118394. [PMID: 32910953 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS There is much controversy regarding whether cardiovascular events increase in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with aging. Considering the lack of possibility of certain investigations in humans, animal models of PCOS may be suitable resources to obtain the useful data needed. In this study; we aimed to investigate whether cardiac function and tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury worsen in postmenopausal rats, who had PCOS at younger ages, compared to controls. MAIN METHODS The hearts of aged rats with a history of PCOS and their controls were isolated and perfused in a Langendorff apparatus. Values of hemodynamic parameters, including left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), rate pressure product (RPP) and peak rates of positive and negative changes in left ventricular pressure (±dp/dt) were recorded using a power lab system. Blood serum levels of total testosterone (TT) and estradiol (E2) were determined by ELISA kits. Generalized Estimating Equation Model and t-student unpaired test results were used to compare the findings documented between two groups. KEY FINDINGS No statistically significant differences were observed in hemodynamic parameters of the heart including, LVSP, LVDP, RPP and ±dp/dt, between the rats of two groups of study, at baseline or before ischemia and after I/R. Nor were any significant differences observed in the levels of two hormones between the two groups (p > 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE History of PCOS during reproductive ages should not be considered an important risk factor for reduction in cardiac contractile function or less tolerance to I/R injury during the postmenopausal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Noroozzadeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Raoufy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Bidhendi Yarandi
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Faraji Shahrivar
- Department of Medical laboratory Sciences, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Moghimi
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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10
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Muniyan S, Xi L, Datta K, Das A, Teply BA, Batra SK, Kukreja RC. Cardiovascular risks and toxicity - The Achilles heel of androgen deprivation therapy in prostate cancer patients. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188383. [PMID: 32535158 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the primary systemic therapy for treating locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer (PCa). Despite its positive effect on PCa patient survival, ADT causes various adverse effects, including increased cardiovascular risk factors and cardiotoxicity. Lifespans extension, early use of ADT, and second-line treatment with next-generation androgen receptor pathway inhibitors would further extend the duration of ADT and possibly increase the risk of ADT-induced cardiotoxicity. Meanwhile, information on the molecular mechanisms underlying ADT-induced cardiotoxicity and measures to prevent it is limited, mainly due to the lack of specifically designed preclinical studies and clinical trials. This review article compiles up-to-date evidence obtained from observational studies and clinical trials, in order to gain new insights for deciphering the association between ADT use and cardiotoxicity. In addition, potential cardioprotective strategies involving GnRH receptors and second messenger cGMP are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakthivel Muniyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Lei Xi
- Pauley Heart Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA 23298-0204, USA
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Anindita Das
- Pauley Heart Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA 23298-0204, USA
| | - Benjamin A Teply
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-3332, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA.
| | - Rakesh C Kukreja
- Pauley Heart Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA 23298-0204, USA.
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11
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Barrientos G, Llanos P, Basualto-Alarcón C, Estrada M. Androgen-Regulated Cardiac Metabolism in Aging Men. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:316. [PMID: 32499759 PMCID: PMC7243157 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of cardiovascular mortality is higher in men than in age-matched premenopausal women. Gender differences are linked to circulating sex-related steroid hormone levels and their cardio-specific actions, which are critical factors involved in the prevalence and features of age-associated cardiovascular disease. In women, estrogens have been described as cardioprotective agents, while in men, testosterone is the main sex steroid hormone. The effects of testosterone as a metabolic regulator and cardioprotective agent in aging men are poorly understood. With advancing age, testosterone levels gradually decrease in men, an effect associated with increasing fat mass, decrease in lean body mass, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and adjustment in energy substrate metabolism. Aging is associated with a decline in metabolism, characterized by modifications in cardiac function, excitation-contraction coupling, and lower efficacy to generate energy. Testosterone deficiency -as found in elderly men- rapidly becomes an epidemic condition, associated with prominent cardiometabolic disorders. Therefore, it is highly probable that senior men showing low testosterone levels will display symptoms of androgen deficiency, presenting an unfavorable metabolic profile and increased cardiovascular risk. Moreover, recent reports establish that testosterone replacement improves cardiomyocyte bioenergetics, increases glucose metabolism and reduces insulin resistance in elderly men. Thus, testosterone-related metabolic signaling and gene expression may constitute relevant therapeutic target for preventing, or treating, age- and gender-related cardiometabolic diseases in men. Here, we will discuss the impact of current evidence showing how cardiac metabolism is regulated by androgen levels in aging men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genaro Barrientos
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Estudios en Ejercicio, Metabolismo y Cáncer (CEMC), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paola Llanos
- Centro de Estudios en Ejercicio, Metabolismo y Cáncer (CEMC), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Odontología, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Odontológicas (ICOD), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carla Basualto-Alarcón
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Aysén, Coyhaique, Chile
- Departamento de Anatomía y Medicina Legal, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Estrada
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Manuel Estrada
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12
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Cruz-Topete D, Oakley RH, Carroll NG, He B, Myers PH, Xu X, Watts MN, Trosclair K, Glasscock E, Dominic P, Cidlowski JA. Deletion of the Cardiomyocyte Glucocorticoid Receptor Leads to Sexually Dimorphic Changes in Cardiac Gene Expression and Progression to Heart Failure. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e011012. [PMID: 31311395 PMCID: PMC6761632 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.011012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The contribution of glucocorticoids to sexual dimorphism in the heart is essentially unknown. Therefore, we sought to determine the sexually dimorphic actions of glucocorticoid signaling in cardiac function and gene expression. To accomplish this goal, we conducted studies on mice lacking glucocorticoid receptors (GR) in cardiomyocytes (cardioGRKO mouse model). Methods and Results Deletion of cardiomyocyte GR leads to an increase in mortality because of the development of spontaneous cardiac pathology in both male and female mice; however, females are more resistant to GR signaling inactivation in the heart. Male cardioGRKO mice had a median survival age of 6 months. In contrast, females had a median survival age of 10 months. Transthoracic echocardiography data showed phenotypic differences between male and female cardioGRKO hearts. By 3 months of age, male cardioGRKO mice exhibited left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Conversely, no significant functional deficits were observed in female cardioGRKO mice at the same time point. Functional sensitivity of male hearts to the loss of cardiomyocyte GR was reversed following gonadectomy. RNA‐Seq analysis showed that deleting GR in the male hearts leads to a more profound dysregulation in the expression of genes implicated in heart rate regulation (calcium handling). In agreement with these gene expression data, cardiomyocytes isolated from male cardioGRKO hearts displayed altered intracellular calcium responses. In contrast, female GR‐deficient cardiomyocytes presented a response comparable with controls. Conclusions These data suggest that GR regulates calcium responses in a sex‐biased manner, leading to sexually distinct responses to stress in male and female mice hearts, which may contribute to sex differences in heart disease, including the development of ventricular arrhythmias that contribute to heart failure and sudden death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Cruz-Topete
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA.,Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - Robert H Oakley
- Signal Transduction Laboratory National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services Research Triangle Park NC
| | - Natalie G Carroll
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - Bo He
- Signal Transduction Laboratory National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services Research Triangle Park NC
| | - Page H Myers
- Comparative Medicine Branch National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services Research Triangle Park NC
| | - Xiaojiang Xu
- Laboratory of Integrative Bioinformatics National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services Research Triangle Park NC
| | - Megan N Watts
- Department of Cardiology LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - Krystle Trosclair
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - Edward Glasscock
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA.,Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - Paari Dominic
- Department of Cardiology LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA.,Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport LA
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Signal Transduction Laboratory National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services Research Triangle Park NC
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13
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Noroozzadeh M, Raoufy MR, Bidhendi Yarandi R, Faraji Shahrivar F, Ramezani Tehrani F. The effects of prenatal androgen exposure on cardiac function and tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion injury in male and female rats during adulthood. Life Sci 2019; 229:251-260. [PMID: 31112711 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cardiovascular diseases may originate from suboptimal intrauterine environments. We aimed to examine the effects of prenatal androgen exposure (PAE) on heart basal hemodynamic parameters and tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, in PAE adult females and males. MAIN METHODS Pregnant Wistar rats in the experimental group (n = 8) received 5 mg of testosterone (s.c. injection) on the 20th day of pregnancy, while controls received solvent. The hearts of adult female and male offspring were isolated and perfused in a Langendorff apparatus, values of left ventricular systolic pressure(LVSP), left ventricular developed pressure(LVDP), rate pressure product(RPP) and peak rates of positive and negative changes in left ventricular pressure(±dp/dt) were recorded using a power lab system. KEY FINDINGS At baseline, PAE adult males demonstrated significant higher values of LVSP, LVDP, RPP and ± dp/dt, compared to controls and PAE adult females (p < 0.05), while PAE adult females showed no significant differences compared to controls. In PAE adult males, LVSP, LVDP, RPP and ± dp/dt had significant decreasing trends per phases after I/R, compared to their controls and PAE females, while these decreasing trends were not statistically significant in PAE adult female rats vs. their controls. SIGNIFICANCE The impact of prenatal androgen exposure on adulthood cardiac function and tolerance to I/R is gender dependent, which may be partly explained by different cardiac effects of hyperandrogenism in males versus females. After prenatal androgen exposure, the baseline hemodynamic parameters of the hearts of adult males are increased; although they had less tolerance to I/R, findings however not observed in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Noroozzadeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Raoufy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Bidhendi Yarandi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Faraji Shahrivar
- Department of Medical laboratory Sciences, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Popa MA, Mihai MC, Constantin A, Şuică V, Ţucureanu C, Costache R, Antohe F, Dubey RK, Simionescu M. Dihydrotestosterone induces pro-angiogenic factors and assists homing of MSC into the cardiac tissue. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:1-15. [PMID: 29247133 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) as a therapeutic tool in cardiovascular diseases is promising. Since androgens exert some beneficial actions on the cardiovascular system, we tested our hypothesis that this hormone could promote MSC-mediated repair processes, also. Cultured MSCs isolated from Wharton's jelly were exposed to 30 nM dihydrotestosterone (DHT) for 1 or 4 days and the effects of the hormone on their growth/migration/adhesion and the underlying mechanisms were assessed. Results were obtained by real-time cell impedance measurements, and DNA quantification showed that DHT increased MSC proliferation by ~30%. As determined by xCELLigence system, DHT augmented (~2 folds) the migration of MSC toward cardiac tissue slices (at 12 h), and this effect was blocked by flutamide, an androgen receptor (AR) antagonist. Exposure of cells to DHT, upregulated the gene and protein expression of AR, EMMPRIN and MMP-9 and downregulated the expression of MMP-2 DHT significantly induced the release of nitric oxide by MSC (≥2-fold) and flutamide blocked this effect. When MSCs were co-cultured with cardiac slices, immunohistochemical analysis and qRT-PCR showed that the integration of DHT-stimulated MSC was significantly higher than that of in controls. In conclusion, our findings provide the first evidence that DHT promotes MSC growth, migration and integration into the cardiac slices. The modulating effects of DHT were associated with upregulation of ARs and of key molecules known to promote tissue remodeling and angiogenesis. Our findings suggest that priming of MSC with DHT may potentially increase their capability to regenerate cardiac tissue; in vivo studies are needed to confirm our in vitro findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirel-Adrian Popa
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria-Cristina Mihai
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Constantin
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Viorel Şuică
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cătălin Ţucureanu
- Infection and Immunity Laboratory, National Institute for Research and Development in Microbiology and Immunology 'I. Cantacuzino', Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Costache
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital 'Dr. Ioan Cantacuzino', Bucharest, Romania
| | - Felicia Antohe
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raghvendra K Dubey
- Department for Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maya Simionescu
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology 'Nicolae Simionescu' of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
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15
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Duran J, Lagos D, Pavez M, Troncoso MF, Ramos S, Barrientos G, Ibarra C, Lavandero S, Estrada M. Ca 2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II and Androgen Signaling Pathways Modulate MEF2 Activity in Testosterone-Induced Cardiac Myocyte Hypertrophy. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:604. [PMID: 28955223 PMCID: PMC5601904 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone is known to induce cardiac hypertrophy through androgen receptor (AR)-dependent and -independent pathways, but the molecular underpinnings of the androgen action remain poorly understood. Previous work has shown that Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and myocyte-enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) play key roles in promoting cardiac myocyte growth. In order to gain mechanistic insights into the action of androgens on the heart, we investigated how testosterone affects CaMKII and MEF2 in cardiac myocyte hypertrophy by performing studies on cultured rat cardiac myocytes and hearts obtained from adult male orchiectomized (ORX) rats. In cardiac myocytes, MEF2 activity was monitored using a luciferase reporter plasmid, and the effects of CaMKII and AR signaling pathways on MEF2C were examined by using siRNAs and pharmacological inhibitors targeting these two pathways. In the in vivo studies, ORX rats were randomly assigned to groups that were administered vehicle or testosterone (125 mg⋅kg-1⋅week-1) for 5 weeks, and plasma testosterone concentrations were determined using ELISA. Cardiac hypertrophy was evaluated by measuring well-characterized hypertrophy markers. Moreover, western blotting was used to assess CaMKII and phospholamban (PLN) phosphorylation, and MEF2C and AR protein levels in extracts of left-ventricle tissue from control and testosterone-treated ORX rats. Whereas testosterone treatment increased the phosphorylation levels of CaMKII (Thr286) and phospholambam (PLN) (Thr17) in cardiac myocytes in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, testosterone-induced MEF2 activity and cardiac myocyte hypertrophy were prevented upon inhibition of CaMKII, MEF2C, and AR signaling pathways. Notably, in the hypertrophied hearts obtained from testosterone-administered ORX rats, both CaMKII and PLN phosphorylation levels and AR and MEF2 protein levels were increased. Thus, this study presents the first evidence indicating that testosterone activates MEF2 through CaMKII and AR signaling. Our findings suggest that an orchestrated mechanism of action involving signal transduction and transcription pathways underlies testosterone-induced cardiac myocyte hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Duran
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Daniel Lagos
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Mario Pavez
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Mayarling F Troncoso
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Ramos
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Genaro Barrientos
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Ibarra
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Lavandero
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Facultad Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas and Facultad Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile.,Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiology Division), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, DallasTX, United States
| | - Manuel Estrada
- Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de ChileSantiago, Chile
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16
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Duran J, Oyarce C, Pavez M, Valladares D, Basualto-Alarcon C, Lagos D, Barrientos G, Troncoso MF, Ibarra C, Estrada M. GSK-3β/NFAT Signaling Is Involved in Testosterone-Induced Cardiac Myocyte Hypertrophy. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0168255. [PMID: 27977752 PMCID: PMC5158037 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone induces cardiac hypertrophy through a mechanism that involves a concerted crosstalk between cytosolic and nuclear signaling pathways. Nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) is associated with the promotion of cardiac hypertrophy, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) is considered to function as a negative regulator, mainly by modulating NFAT activity. However, the role played by calcineurin-NFAT and GSK-3β signaling in testosterone-induced cardiac hypertrophy has remained unknown. Here, we determined that testosterone stimulates cardiac myocyte hypertrophy through NFAT activation and GSK-3β inhibition. Testosterone increased the activity of NFAT-luciferase (NFAT-Luc) in a time- and dose-dependent manner, with the activity peaking after 24 h of stimulation with 100 nM testosterone. NFAT-Luc activity induced by testosterone was blocked by the calcineurin inhibitors FK506 and cyclosporine A and by 11R-VIVIT, a specific peptide inhibitor of NFAT. Conversely, testosterone inhibited GSK-3β activity as determined by increased GSK-3β phosphorylation at Ser9 and β-catenin protein accumulation, and also by reduction in β-catenin phosphorylation at residues Ser33, Ser37, and Thr41. GSK-3β inhibition with 1-azakenpaullone or a GSK-3β-targeting siRNA increased NFAT-Luc activity, whereas overexpression of a constitutively active GSK-3β mutant (GSK-3βS9A) inhibited NFAT-Luc activation mediated by testosterone. Testosterone-induced cardiac myocyte hypertrophy was established by increased cardiac myocyte size and [3H]-leucine incorporation (as a measurement of cellular protein synthesis). Calcineurin-NFAT inhibition abolished and GSK-3β inhibition promoted the hypertrophy stimulated by testosterone. GSK-3β activation by GSK-3βS9A blocked the increase of hypertrophic markers induced by testosterone. Moreover, inhibition of intracellular androgen receptor prevented testosterone-induced NFAT-Luc activation. Collectively, these results suggest that cardiac myocyte hypertrophy induced by testosterone involves a cooperative mechanism that links androgen signaling with the recruitment of NFAT through calcineurin activation and GSK-3β inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Duran
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cesar Oyarce
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mario Pavez
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Denisse Valladares
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carla Basualto-Alarcon
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniel Lagos
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Genaro Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mayarling Francisca Troncoso
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Ibarra
- Heart Failure Bioscience Department, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases (CVMD), Innovative Medicines & Early Development iMED Biotech unit, AstraZeneca R&D, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Manuel Estrada
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Celular, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- * E-mail:
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17
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Pakrashi T, Taylor JE, Nelson A, Archer DF, Jacot T. The Effect of Levonorgestrel on Fibrinolytic Factors in Human Endometrial Endothelial Cells. Reprod Sci 2016; 23:1536-1541. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719116645193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tarita Pakrashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | | | - Ashley Nelson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - David F. Archer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Terry Jacot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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18
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Agiannitopoulos K, Bakalgianni A, Marouli E, Zormpa I, Manginas A, Papamenzelopoulos S, Lamnissou K. Gender Specificity of a Genetic Variant of Androgen Receptor and Risk of Coronary Artery Disease. J Clin Lab Anal 2015; 30:204-7. [PMID: 25716092 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.21837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens are known to influence the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This study aims at investigating the possible association between G1733A polymorphism in the coding region of androgen receptor (AR) gene and premature coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS A total of 460 Greek subjects were investigated for the G1733A polymorphism. The patient group consisted of 250 CAD individuals, aged less than 58 years, while 210 healthy individuals served as controls. Genotyping was performed using the PCR-RFLP method. RESULTS Significant differences in genotype distribution (P = 0.0067) and allele frequencies (P = 0.0060) have been observed between patients and controls in the women's subgroup. Conversely, the genotype/allele frequencies were similar between patients and controls in the subgroup of men. CONCLUSION We may conclude that the G1733A polymorphism of AR gene could be a useful genetic marker for the assessment of a woman's risk for CAD in our Caucasian Greek population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angeliki Bakalgianni
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eirini Marouli
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Zormpa
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Klea Lamnissou
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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19
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Makrygiannis G, Courtois A, Drion P, Defraigne JO, Kuivaniemi H, Sakalihasan N. Sex Differences in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The Role of Sex Hormones. Ann Vasc Surg 2014; 28:1946-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2014.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Revised: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 07/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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20
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Coll-Bastus N, Mao X, Young BD, Sheer D, Lu YJ. DNA replication-dependent induction of gene proximity by androgen. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 24:963-71. [PMID: 25281662 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The male hormone androgen, working through the androgen receptor (AR), plays a major role in physiological process and disease development. Previous studies of AR mainly focus on its transcriptional activity. Here, we found that androgen-induced TMPRSS2 and ERG gene proximity is mediated by AR control of DNA replication rather than gene transcription. We demonstrate that, in both AR transactivation-positive and -negative prostate cells, androgen regulates DNA replication and androgen-induced gene proximity relies on both DNA replication-licensing and actual DNA replication activity. Androgen stimulation advances DNA replication timing of certain genomic regions, which may potentially increase gene proximity through sharing the same replication factory at a similar time. Therefore, we have revealed novel mechanisms of AR biological function, which will stimulate new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bryan D Young
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK and
| | - Denise Sheer
- Centre for Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
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21
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Liu R, Ding L, Yu MH, Wang HQ, Li WC, Cao Z, Zhang P, Yao BC, Tang J, Ke Q, Huang TZ. Effects of dihydrotestosterone on adhesion and proliferation via PI3-K/Akt signaling in endothelial progenitor cells. Endocrine 2014; 46:634-43. [PMID: 24190051 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-013-0081-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The protective effects of male hormones on the cardiovascular system are still in dispute. There is now ample evidence that testosterone level is negatively correlated to the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease in men. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a vital role in endothelial healing and vascular integrity, which are useful for promoting cardiovascular health. In this study, we investigated the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a non-aromatizable androgen, on human EPC function and the activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt pathway in vitro. EPCs were incubated with a series of concentrations (1, 10, or 100 nmol/L in DMSO) of DHT for 24 h or with 10 nmol/L DHT for different time (6, 12, 24, 48 h). EPC adhesion and proliferation and the activation of Akt were assayed by cell counting, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation assay, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and Western blot analysis. Our data demonstrated that DHT significantly increased the proliferative activity and adhesive ability of EPCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner, maximum at 10 nmol/L, 24 h (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis revealed that DHT promoted the phosphorylation of Akt, and the effects of different concentrations of DHT on Akt phosphorylation were consistent with those on EPC proliferation and adhesion (p < 0.05). However, the enhancing effects of DHT on EPCs decreased with administration of the pharmacological PI3-K blocker LY294002 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, DHT can modulate EPC proliferation and adhesion and the PI3-K/Akt pathway plays an important role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Hubei University of Medicine, 30 People's South Road, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
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22
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Wan R, Zhu C, Guo R, Jin L, Liu Y, Li L, Zhang H, Li S. Dihydrotestosterone alters urocortin levels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Endocrinol 2013; 218:321-30. [PMID: 23801677 DOI: 10.1530/joe-13-0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Urocortin (UCN1) is a member of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) family, which has been proven to participate in inflammation. Previous work showed that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) could promote the inflammatory process. Little is known about the effect of DHT on UCN1 expression. The aim of our study is to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of DHT on endothelial UCN1 expression in the absence and presence of induced inflammation. Therefore, we tested the alterations of endothelial UCN1 expression treated with DHT in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our data showed that DHT alone decreased UCN1 levels, which were attenuated in the presence of the androgen receptor (AR) antagonist flutamide. Conversely, in the presence of LPS, DHT augmented the LPS-induced increase in UCN1 expression, which was, interestingly, not affected by flutamide. When cells were treated with DHT alone, AR was upregulated and translocated into the nuclei, which might repress UCN1 expression via a potential androgen-responsive element found in human CRF family promoter. In the presence of LPS, DHT did not influence AR expression and location while it increased toll-like receptor 4 expression and activation, which was not altered by flutamide. DHT enhanced LPS-induced p38MAPK, ERK1/2, and nuclear factor κB pathway activation, which may contribute to the elevated expression of UCN1. These data suggest that DHT differentially influences UCN1 levels under normal and inflammatory conditions in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which involves AR-dependent and -independent mechanisms respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wan
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab of Cardiovascular Diseases and Molecular Intervention, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China
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23
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Roelofs MJ, Piersma AH, van den Berg M, van Duursen MB. The relevance of chemical interactions with CYP17 enzyme activity: Assessment using a novel in vitro assay. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2013; 268:309-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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24
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Overcash RF, Chappell VA, Green T, Geyer CB, Asch AS, Ruiz-Echevarría MJ. Androgen signaling promotes translation of TMEFF2 in prostate cancer cells via phosphorylation of the α subunit of the translation initiation factor 2. PLoS One 2013; 8:e55257. [PMID: 23405127 PMCID: PMC3566213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0055257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The type I transmembrane protein with epidermal growth factor and two follistatin motifs 2 (TMEFF2), is expressed mainly in brain and prostate. Expression of TMEFF2 is deregulated in prostate cancer, suggesting a role in this disease, but the molecular mechanism(s) involved in this effect are not clear. Although androgens promote tmeff2 transcription, androgen delivery to castrated animals carrying CWR22 xenografts increases TMEFF2 protein levels in the absence of mRNA changes, suggesting that TMEFF2 may also be post-transcriptionally regulated. Here we show that translation of TMEFF2 is regulated by androgens. Addition of physiological concentrations of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to prostate cancer cell lines increases translation of endogenous TMEFF2 or transfected TMEFF2-Luciferase fusions, and this effect requires the presence of upstream open reading frames (uORFs) in the 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of TMEFF2. Using chemical and siRNA inhibition of the androgen receptor (AR), we show that the androgen effect on TMEFF2 translation is mediated by the AR. Importantly, DHT also promotes phosphorylation of the α subunit of the translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) in an AR-dependent manner, paralleling the effect on TMEFF2 translation. Moreover, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress conditions, which promote eIF2α phosphorylation, also stimulate TMEFF2 translation. These results indicate that androgen signaling promotes eIF2α phosphorylation and subsequent translation of TMEFF2 via a mechanism that requires uORFs in the 5′-UTR of TMEFF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan F. Overcash
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Vesna A. Chappell
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Thomas Green
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology. Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christopher B. Geyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Adam S. Asch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology. Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Maria J. Ruiz-Echevarría
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology. Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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