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Trivedi S, Deering-Rice CE, Aamodt SE, Huecksteadt TP, Myers EJ, Sanders KA, Paine R, Warren KJ. Progesterone amplifies allergic inflammation and airway pathology in association with higher lung ILC2 responses. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 327:L65-L78. [PMID: 38651968 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00207.2023] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Perimenstrual worsening of asthma occurs in up to 40% of women with asthma, leading to increased acute exacerbations requiring clinical care. The role of sex hormones during these times remains unclear. In the current study, we used a translational approach to determine whether progesterone exacerbates allergic inflammation in the traditional chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA) model in BALB/c mice. Simultaneously, we used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy human donors to assess the effects of progesterone on circulating group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2). Briefly, lungs of ovariectomized (OVX) or sham-operated female (F-Sham) controls were implanted with a progesterone (P4, 25 mg) (OVX-P4) or placebo pellet (OVX-Placebo), followed by sensitization and challenge with ovalbumin (OVA). Progesterone increased total inflammatory histologic scores, increased hyper-responsiveness to methacholine (MCh), increased select chemokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and serum, and increased ILC2 and neutrophil numbers, along the airways compared with F-Sham-OVA and OVX-Placebo-OVA animals. Lung ILC2 were sorted from F-Sham-OVA, OVX-Placebo-OVA and OVX-P4-OVA treated animals and stimulated with IL-33. OVX-P4-OVA lung ILC2 were more responsive to interleukin 33 (IL-33) compared with F-Sham-OVA treated, producing more IL-13 and chemokines following IL-33 stimulation. We confirmed the expression of the progesterone receptor (PR) on human ILC2, and showed that P4 + IL-33 stimulation also increased IL-13 and chemokine production from human ILC2. We establish that murine ILC2 are capable of responding to P4 and thereby contribute to allergic inflammation in the lung. We confirmed that human ILC2 are also hyper-responsive to P4 and IL-33 and likely contribute to airway exacerbations following allergen exposures in asthmatic women with increased symptoms around the time of menstruation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY There is a strong association between female biological sex and severe asthma. We investigated the allergic immune response, lung pathology, and airway mechanics in the well-described chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA) model with steady levels of progesterone delivered throughout the treatment period. We found that progesterone enhances the activation of mouse group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2). Human ILC2 are also hyper-responsive to progesterone and interleukin 33 (IL-33), and likely contribute to airway exacerbations following allergen exposures in women with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhanshi Trivedi
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Cassandra E Deering-Rice
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Samuel E Aamodt
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Thomas P Huecksteadt
- George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Elizabeth J Myers
- Division of Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Karl A Sanders
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Robert Paine
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Kristi J Warren
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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2
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Anima B, Gurusubramanian G, Roy VK. Hormonal dependent expression of apelin and apelin receptor in the ovary and uterus of mice. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100918. [PMID: 38924877 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100918] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Apelin and APJ have been shown to regulate female reproductive functions. However, its uterine expression during the oestrous cycle and its regulation by ovarian steroids, along with gonadotropin regulation in the ovary, has not been investigated. This study aimed to analyze the steroid-dependent uterine expression of apelin/APJ in the uterus along with the oestrous cycle. Furthermore, it also aimed to investigate gonadotropin-dependent ovarian expression of apelin and APJ. To investigate the uterine expression of apelin and APJ during estrous cycle in mice, uterus at different estrous stage were collected. To explore the ovarian steroids dependent expression of apelin system in the uterus, ovariectomized mice were treated with only estrogen at dose of 30 ng/g, only progesterone at dose of 150 μg/g and combined doses. To study the effect of gonadotropin on ovarian expression of apelin system, immature mice were injected with 2.5 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) alone and both PMSG plus 2.5 IU of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Apelin and APJ protein expression are modulated by estrous phases in the uterus. The uterine apelin and APJ expression are up-regulated by estrogen and down-regulated by progesterone. The expression and localization of APJ showed increased abundance in the follicles of PMSG treated mice, however, the PMSG plus HCG treatment showed formation of corpus luteum with increased abundance of APJ and progesterone secretion. The expression of apelin and APJ are regulated by pituitary gonadotropin in the ovary and uterine apelin system by ovarian steroid hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borgohain Anima
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796004, Mizoram, India
| | | | - Vikas Kumar Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796004, Mizoram, India.
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3
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Jabra S, Rietsche M, Muellerleile J, O'Leary A, Slattery DA, Deller T, Fellenz M. Sex- and cycle-dependent changes in spine density and size in hippocampal CA2 neurons. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12252. [PMID: 38806649 PMCID: PMC11133407 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62951-x] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones affect structural and functional plasticity in the rodent hippocampus. However, hormone levels not only differ between males and females, but also fluctuate across the female estrous cycle. While sex- and cycle-dependent differences in dendritic spine density and morphology have been found in the rodent CA1 region, but not in the CA3 or the dentate gyrus, comparable structural data on CA2, i.e. the hippocampal region involved in social recognition memory, is so far lacking. In this study, we, therefore, used wildtype male and female mice in diestrus or proestrus to analyze spines on dendritic segments from identified CA2 neurons. In basal stratum oriens, we found no differences in spine density, but a significant shift towards larger spine head areas in male mice compared to females. Conversely, in apical stratum radiatum diestrus females had a significantly higher spine density, and females in either cycle stage had a significant shift towards larger spine head areas as compared to males, with diestrus females showing the larger shift. Our results provide further evidence for the sexual dimorphism of hippocampal area CA2, and underscore the importance of considering not only the sex, but also the stage of the estrous cycle when interpreting morphological data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Jabra
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Center, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael Rietsche
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Center, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Julia Muellerleile
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Center, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Aet O'Leary
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Heinrich-Hoffmann-Straße 10, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - David A Slattery
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Heinrich-Hoffmann-Straße 10, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Deller
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Center, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Meike Fellenz
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Center, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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4
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Skalski HJ, Arendt AR, Harkins SK, MacLachlan M, Corbett CJM, Goy RW, Kapoor A, Hostetter G, Chandler RL. Key Considerations for Studying the Effects of High-Fat Diet on the Nulligravid Mouse Endometrium. J Endocr Soc 2024; 8:bvae104. [PMID: 38854907 PMCID: PMC11156617 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvae104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The obesity epidemic continues to increase, with half of US women predicted to be obese by 2030. Women with obesity are at increased risk for not only cardiovascular and liver disease, but also reproductive disorders. Although mouse models are useful in studying the effects of obesity, there is inconsistency in obesity-induction methods, diet composition, and mouse strains, and studies using female mice are limited. In this study, we sought to compare the effects of a 45% high-fat diet (HFD) versus a 60% HFD on the uterine estrous cycle of nulligravid C57BL/6J mice. For 22 weeks, we placed a total of 20 mice on either a 60% HFD, 45% HFD, or each HFD-matched control diet (CD). Both HFDs produced significant weight gain, with 60% HFD and 45% HFD gaining significant weight after 2 weeks and 15 weeks, respectively. Additionally, both HFDs led to glucose intolerance, fatty liver, and adipocyte hypertrophy. Mice fed 60% HFD displayed hyperphagia in the first 12 weeks of HFD treatment. Moreover, 60% HFD-treated mice had a longer estrous cycle length and an increased percentage of estrus stage samplings compared to CD-treated mice. Estrous cycle stage-controlled 60% HFD-treated mice displayed an increased estrogen-to-progesterone ratio and decreased ovarian corpora lutea compared to CD-treated mice, which may underlie the observed estrous cycle differences. There was no significant difference between diets regarding endometrial morphology or the percent of endometrial CD45+ immune cells. Our results indicate that consideration is needed when selecting a HFD-induced obesity mouse model for research involving female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary J Skalski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Amelia R Arendt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Shannon K Harkins
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Madison MacLachlan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Cody J M Corbett
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Assay Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Robinson W Goy
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Assay Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Amita Kapoor
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Assay Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Galen Hostetter
- Pathology and Biorepository Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ronald L Chandler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
- Department for Epigenetics, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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5
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Reho JJ, Muskus PC, Bennett DM, Grobe CC, Burnett CML, Nakagawa P, Segar JL, Sigmund CD, Grobe JL. Modulatory effects of estrous cycle on ingestive behaviors and energy balance in young adult C57BL/6J mice maintained on a phytoestrogen-free diet. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2024; 326:R242-R253. [PMID: 38284128 PMCID: PMC11213288 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00273.2023] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The estrous cycle is known to modify food, fluid, and electrolyte intake behaviors and energy homeostasis in various species, in part through fluctuations in estrogen levels. Simultaneously, commonly commercially available rodent dietary formulations greatly vary in soy protein content, and thereby the delivery of biologically active phytoestrogens. To explore the interactions among the estrous cycle, sodium, fluid, and caloric seeking behaviors, and energy homeostasis, young adult C57BL/6J female mice were maintained on a soy protein-free 2920x diet and provided water, or a choice between water and 0.15 mol/L NaCl drink solution. Comprehensive metabolic phenotyping was performed using a multiplexed Promethion (Sable Systems International) system, and estrous stages were determined via daily vaginal cytology. When provided food and water, estrous cycling had no major modulatory effects on intake behaviors or energy balance. When provided a saline solution drink choice, significant modulatory effects of the transition from diestrus to proestrus were observed upon fluid intake patterning, locomotion, and total energy expenditure. Access to saline increased total daily sodium consumption and aspects of energy expenditure, but these effects were not modified by the estrous stage. Collectively, these results indicate that when supplied a phytoestrogen-free diet, the estrous cycle has minor modulatory effects on ingestive behaviors and energy balance in C57BL/6J mice that are sensitive to sodium supply.NEW & NOTEWORTHY When provided a phytoestrogen-free diet, the estrous cycle had very little effect on food and water intake, physical activity, or energy expenditure in C57BL/6J mice. In contrast, when provided an NaCl drink in addition to food and water, the estrous cycle was associated with changes in intake behaviors and energy expenditure. These findings highlight the complex interactions among estrous cycling, dietary formulation, and nutrient presentation upon ingestive behaviors and energy homeostasis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Reho
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Comprehensive Rodent Metabolic Phenotyping Core, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Patricia C Muskus
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Darby M Bennett
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Connie C Grobe
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Colin M L Burnett
- Department of Medicine/Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Pablo Nakagawa
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Jeffrey L Segar
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Curt D Sigmund
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Justin L Grobe
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Comprehensive Rodent Metabolic Phenotyping Core, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
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6
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Veyrunes F, Perez J, Heitzmann LD, Saunders PA, Givalois L. Hormone profiles of the African pygmy mouse Mus minutoides, a species with XY female sex reversal. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 341:130-137. [PMID: 38059664 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, most sex differences in phenotype are controlled by gonadal hormones, but recent work on transgenic mice has shown that sex chromosomes can have a direct influence on sex-specific behaviors. In this study, we take advantage of the naturally occurring sex reversal in a mouse species, Mus minutoides, to investigate for the first time the relationship between sex chromosomes, hormones, and behaviors in a wild species. In this model, a feminizing variant of the X chromosome, named X*, produces three types of females with different sex chromosome complements (XX, XX*, and X*Y), associated with alternative behavioral phenotypes, while all males are XY. We thus compared the levels of three major circulating steroid hormones (testosterone, corticosterone, and estradiol) in the four sex genotypes to disentangle the influence of sex chromosomes and sex hormones on behavior. First, we did not find any difference in testosterone levels in the three female genotypes, although X*Y females are notoriously more aggressive. Second, in agreement with their lower anxiety-related behaviors, X*Y females and XY males display lower baseline corticosterone concentration than XX and XX* females. Instead of a direct hormonal influence, this result rather suggests that sex chromosomes may have an impact on the baseline corticosterone level, which in turn may influence behaviors. Third, estradiol concentrations do not explain the enhanced reproductive performance and maternal care behavior of the X*Y females compared to the XX and XX* females. Overall, this study highlights that most of the behaviors varying along with sex chromosome complement of this species are more likely driven by genetic factors rather than steroid hormone concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Veyrunes
- ISEM, Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier UMR 5554, CNRS, Université Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Julie Perez
- ISEM, Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier UMR 5554, CNRS, Université Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Louise D Heitzmann
- ISEM, Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier UMR 5554, CNRS, Université Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Paul A Saunders
- ISEM, Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier UMR 5554, CNRS, Université Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Laurent Givalois
- MMDN, Molecular Mechanisms in Neurodegenerative Dementia Laboratory, Université Montpellier, EPHE-PSL, INSERM U1198, Montpellier, France
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CR-CHUQ, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec City, Canada
- CNRS, Paris, France
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7
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Winkler I, Tolkachov A, Lammers F, Lacour P, Daugelaite K, Schneider N, Koch ML, Panten J, Grünschläger F, Poth T, Ávila BMD, Schneider A, Haas S, Odom DT, Gonçalves Â. The cycling and aging mouse female reproductive tract at single-cell resolution. Cell 2024; 187:981-998.e25. [PMID: 38325365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.01.021] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract (FRT) undergoes extensive remodeling during reproductive cycling. This recurrent remodeling and how it shapes organ-specific aging remains poorly explored. Using single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, we systematically characterized morphological and gene expression changes occurring in ovary, oviduct, uterus, cervix, and vagina at each phase of the mouse estrous cycle, during decidualization, and into aging. These analyses reveal that fibroblasts play central-and highly organ-specific-roles in FRT remodeling by orchestrating extracellular matrix (ECM) reorganization and inflammation. Our results suggest a model wherein recurrent FRT remodeling over reproductive lifespan drives the gradual, age-related development of fibrosis and chronic inflammation. This hypothesis was directly tested using chemical ablation of cycling, which reduced fibrotic accumulation during aging. Our atlas provides extensive detail into how estrus, pregnancy, and aging shape the organs of the female reproductive tract and reveals the unexpected cost of the recurrent remodeling required for reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Winkler
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Somatic Evolution and Early Detection, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Tolkachov
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fritjof Lammers
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Perrine Lacour
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Somatic Evolution and Early Detection, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaudija Daugelaite
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nina Schneider
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Somatic Evolution and Early Detection, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Koch
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jasper Panten
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Computational Genomics and Systems Genetics, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florian Grünschläger
- Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanja Poth
- CMCP - Center for Model System and Comparative Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Augusto Schneider
- Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Faculdade de Nutrição, 96010-610 Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Simon Haas
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 10115 Berlin, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Duncan T Odom
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Regulatory Genomics and Cancer Evolution, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Cancer Research UK - Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Ângela Gonçalves
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Somatic Evolution and Early Detection, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Saad-Naguib MH, Kenfack Y, Sherman LS, Chafitz OB, Morelli SS. Impaired receptivity of thin endometrium: therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1268990. [PMID: 38344687 PMCID: PMC10854221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1268990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a resilient and highly dynamic tissue, undergoing cyclic renewal in preparation for embryo implantation. Cyclic endometrial regeneration depends on the intact function of several cell types, including parenchymal, endothelial, and immune cells, as well as adult stem cells that can arise from endometrial or extrauterine sources. The ability of the endometrium to undergo rapid, repeated regeneration without scarring is unique to this tissue. However, if this tissue renewal process is disrupted or dysfunctional, women may present clinically with infertility due to endometrial scarring or persistent atrophic/thin endometrium. Such disorders are rate-limiting in the treatment of female infertility and in the success of in vitro fertilization because of a dearth of treatment options specifically targeting the endometrium. A growing number of studies have explored the potential of adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to treat women with disorders of endometrial regeneration. MSCs are multipotent adult stem cells with capacity to differentiate into cells such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In addition to their differentiation capacity, MSCs migrate toward injured sites where they secrete bioactive factors (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteins and extracellular vesicles) to aid in tissue repair. These factors modulate biological processes critical for tissue regeneration, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and immunomodulation. The MSC secretome has therefore attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. In the uterus, studies utilizing rodent models and limited human trials have shown a potential benefit of MSCs and the MSC secretome in treatment of endometrial infertility. This review will explore the potential of MSCs to treat women with impaired endometrial receptivity due to a thin endometrium or endometrial scarring. We will provide context supporting leveraging MSCs for this purpose by including a review of mechanisms by which the MSC secretome promotes regeneration and repair of nonreproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Saad-Naguib
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yannick Kenfack
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Olivia B. Chafitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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9
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Bafor EE, Martin T, Carrell J, Karwan M, Kimmel AE, Omogiade UG, Sanford M, Young HA, Valencia JC. Isolation of single cells from individual mouse ovaries for flow cytometry and functional analysis. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102710. [PMID: 37963022 PMCID: PMC10679862 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a validated workflow to isolate sufficient viable single ovary cells from a single mouse without the need to pool from several mice. We provide steps essential for estrous staging, ovary harvesting and dissociation, ovary cell staining, data collection, and analysis. Our approach allows the use of these single-cell suspensions for flow sorting, flow cytometry analysis, or functional in vitro assays. Importantly, our protocol is designed to maximize the isolation of immune cells, including T cell subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enitome E Bafor
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Toni Martin
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Jeffrey Carrell
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Megan Karwan
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Adrienne E Kimmel
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Uyi G Omogiade
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Michael Sanford
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Howard A Young
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Julio C Valencia
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
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10
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Shu H, Liu S, Crawford J, Tao F. A female-specific role for trigeminal dynorphin in orofacial pain comorbidity. Pain 2023; 164:2801-2811. [PMID: 37463238 PMCID: PMC10790138 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002980] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Migraine is commonly reported in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), but little is known about the mechanisms underlying the comorbid condition. Here, we prepared a mouse model to investigate this comorbidity, in which masseter muscle tendon ligation (MMTL) was performed to induce a myogenic TMD, and the pre-existing TMD enabled a subthreshold dose of nitroglycerin (NTG) to produce migraine-like pain in mice. RNA sequencing followed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction confirmation showed that MMTL plus NTG treatment increased prodynorphin ( Pdyn ) mRNA expression in the spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Sp5C) of female mice but not in male mice. Chemogenetic inhibition of Pdyn -expressing neurons or microinjection of antidynorphin antiserum in the Sp5C alleviated MMTL-induced masseter hypersensitivity and diminished the MMTL-enabled migraine-like pain in female mice but not in male mice. Moreover, chemogenetic activation of Pdyn -expressing neurons or microinjection of dynorphin A (1-17) peptide in the Sp5C enabled a subthreshold dose of NTG to induce migraine-like pain in female mice but not in male mice. Taken together, our results suggest that trigeminal dynorphin has a female-specific role in the modulation of comorbid TMDs and migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
School of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sufang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
School of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Joshua Crawford
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
School of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
School of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Center for Craniofacial Research and Diagnosis, Texas
A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
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11
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Kalev-Altman R, Becker G, Levy T, Penn S, Shpigel NY, Monsonego-Ornan E, Sela-Donenfeld D. Mmp2 Deficiency Leads to Defective Parturition and High Dystocia Rates in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16822. [PMID: 38069145 PMCID: PMC10706207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316822] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Parturition is the final and essential step for mammalian reproduction. While the uterus is quiescent during pregnancy, fundamental changes arise in the myometrial contractility, inducing fetal expulsion. Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is fundamental for these events. The gelatinases subgroup of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP2 and MMP9, participate in uterine ECM remodeling throughout pregnancy and parturition. However, their loss-of-function effect is unknown. Here, we determined the result of eliminating Mmp2 and/or Mmp9 on parturition in vivo, using single- and double-knockout (dKO) mice. The dystocia rates were measured in each genotype, and uterine tissue was collected from nulliparous synchronized females at the ages of 2, 4, 9 and 12 months. Very high percentages of dystocia (40-55%) were found in the Mmp2-/- and dKO females, contrary to the Mmp9-/- and wild-type females. The histological analysis of the uterus and cervix revealed that Mmp2-/- tissues undergo marked structural alterations, including highly enlarged myometrial, endometrial and luminal cavity. Increased collagen deposition was also demonstrated, suggesting a mechanism of extensive fibrosis in the Mmp2-/- myometrium, which may result in dystocia. Overall, this study describes a new role for MMP2 in myometrium remodeling during mammalian parturition process, highlighting a novel cause for dystocia due to a loss in MMP2 activity in the uterine tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rotem Kalev-Altman
- The Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (N.Y.S.)
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (E.M.-O.)
| | - Gal Becker
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (E.M.-O.)
| | - Tamar Levy
- The Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (N.Y.S.)
| | - Svetlana Penn
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (E.M.-O.)
| | - Nahum Y. Shpigel
- The Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (N.Y.S.)
| | - Efrat Monsonego-Ornan
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (E.M.-O.)
| | - Dalit Sela-Donenfeld
- The Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The RH Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel (N.Y.S.)
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12
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Liu J, Zhu Q, Pan Y, Hao S, Wang Z, Cui C, Li J, Huang Y, Xia L, Xu T, Cheng J, Shen J, Xia Y. Electroacupuncture alleviates intrauterine adhesion through regulating autophagy in rats. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad037. [PMID: 37935442 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad037] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a well-conserved metabolic system that maintains homeostasis by relying on lysosomal breakdown. The endometrium of patients with intrauterine adhesion (IUA) and an animal model exhibits impaired autophagy. Autophagy is negatively correlated with inflammation. Activation of autophagy can inhibit the inflammatory response, while defects in autophagy will activate the inflammatory response. Here, we studied whether electroacupuncture (EA) inhibits inflammation and promotes endometrial injury repair by activating endometrial autophagy. The IUA animal model was established by mechanical injury plus lipopolysaccharide infection. EA stimulation was applied to the acupoints Guanyuan (CV4), bilateral Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Zusanli (ST36). The results indicated that EA could improve endometrial morphology, attenuate endometrial fibers, and enhance endometrial receptivity in the rat. EA could increase the autophagosomes of endometrial epithelial cells, increase the levels of LC3 and Beclin1, and decrease the level of p62. Additionally, EA may also suppress the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and reduce the release of inflammatory factors. Additionally, the effect of EA was comparable to that of the autophagy agonist rapamycin, and the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine reversed the therapeutic effect of EA. Therefore, we assume that EA may facilitate endometrial healing by activating autophagy and reducing NF-κB signal pathway-mediated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Pan
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Sainan Hao
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaoxian Wang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuting Cui
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Junwei Li
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yueying Huang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Liangjun Xia
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tiancheng Xu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Youbing Xia
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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13
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Roberson EC, Tran NK, Godambe AN, Mark H, Nguimtsop M, Rust T, Ung E, Barker LJ, Fitch RD, Wallingford JB. Hedgehog signaling is required for endometrial remodeling and myometrial homeostasis in the cycling mouse uterus. iScience 2023; 26:107993. [PMID: 37810243 PMCID: PMC10551904 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Decades of work demonstrate that the mammalian estrous cycle is controlled by cycling steroid hormones. However, the signaling mechanisms that act downstream, linking hormonal action to the physical remodeling of the cycling uterus, remain unclear. To address this issue, we analyzed gene expression at all stages of the mouse estrous cycle. Strikingly, we found that several genetic programs well-known to control tissue morphogenesis in developing embryos displayed cyclical patterns of expression. We find that most of the genetic architectures of Hedgehog signaling (ligands, receptors, effectors, and transcription factors) are transcribed cyclically in the uterus, and that conditional disruption of the Hedgehog receptor smoothened not only elicits a failure of normal cyclical thickening of the endometrial lining but also induces aberrant deformation of the uterine smooth muscle. Together, our data shed light on the mechanisms underlying normal uterine remodeling specifically and cyclical gene expression generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elle C Roberson
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical School, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Ngan Kim Tran
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Anushka N Godambe
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Harrison Mark
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Michelle Nguimtsop
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Trinity Rust
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ung
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical School, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - LeCaine J Barker
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical School, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rebecca D Fitch
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - John B Wallingford
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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14
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Abstract
The uterine lining (endometrium) regenerates repeatedly over the life span as part of its normal physiology. Substantial portions of the endometrium are shed during childbirth (parturition) and, in some species, menstruation, but the tissue is rapidly rebuilt without scarring, rendering it a powerful model of regeneration in mammals. Nonetheless, following some assaults, including medical procedures and infections, the endometrium fails to regenerate and instead forms scars that may interfere with normal endometrial function and contribute to infertility. Thus, the endometrium provides an exceptional platform to answer a central question of regenerative medicine: Why do some systems regenerate while others scar? Here, we review our current understanding of diverse endometrial disruption events in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents, and the associated mechanisms of regenerative success and failure. Elucidating the determinants of these disparate repair processes promises insights into fundamental mechanisms of mammalian regeneration with substantial implications for reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Ang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor D Skokan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Kara L McKinley
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Godiwala P, Uliasz TF, Lowther KM, Kaback D, Mehlmann LM. Puberty Suppression Followed by Testosterone Therapy Does Not Impair Reproductive Potential in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad145. [PMID: 37768169 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
More adolescents are coming out as transgender each year and are put on puberty blockers to suppress natal puberty, which is then followed by cross-hormone treatment to achieve puberty of the desired gender. Studies to examine the effects of puberty suppression and virilizing therapy on future reproductive potential among transgender males are lacking. This study used a translational murine in vitro fertilization model to examine the effects of female puberty suppression with depot leuprolide acetate (LA), followed by virilizing therapy with testosterone cypionate (T), on embryologic and pregnancy outcomes. LA effectively inhibited puberty when mice were treated beginning at 3 weeks of age. LA treatment was associated with higher mouse weight but lower ovarian weight. LA-treated mice ovulated developmentally competent eggs in response to gonadotropin administration, albeit at a higher dose than controls. Ovaries from mice treated with LA and T produced oocytes that had morphologically normal meiotic spindles after in vitro maturation and responded to gonadotropin stimulation. Eggs from mice treated with LA and T were fertilizable and produced developmentally competent embryos that led to births of fertile pups. These results suggest that fertility may not be impaired after puberty suppression and cross-hormone therapy for transgender males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prachi Godiwala
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Tracy F Uliasz
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Katie M Lowther
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Deborah Kaback
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Lisa M Mehlmann
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
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16
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Earhart AP, Karasseva NG, Storey KM, Olthoff B, Sarker MB, Laffey KG, Lange MJ, Rector RS, Schulz LC, Gil D, Neuhauser CM, Schrum AG. Lower female survival from an opportunistic infection reveals progesterone-driven sex bias in trained immunity. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113007. [PMID: 37590139 PMCID: PMC10528383 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113007] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune responses differ between females and males, although such sex-based variance is incompletely understood. Observing that bacteremia of the opportunistic pathogen Burkholderia gladioli caused many more deaths of female than male mice bearing genetic deficiencies in adaptive immunity, we determined that this was associated with sex bias in the innate immune memory response called trained immunity. Female attenuation of trained immunity varies with estrous cycle stage and correlates with serum progesterone, a hormone that decreases glycolytic capacity and recall cytokine secretion induced by antigen non-specific stimuli. Progesterone receptor antagonism rescues female trained immune responses and survival from controlled B. gladioli infection to magnitudes similar to those of males. These data demonstrate progesterone-dependent sex bias in trained immunity where attenuation of female responses is associated with survival outcomes from opportunistic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Earhart
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Natalia G Karasseva
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Kathryn M Storey
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts & Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Benjamin Olthoff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Md Bodruzzaman Sarker
- Division of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Kimberly G Laffey
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Margaret J Lange
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - R Scott Rector
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Research Service, Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Laura C Schulz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Diana Gil
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Claudia M Neuhauser
- Division of Research, Department of Mathematics, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Adam G Schrum
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Division of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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17
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Anima B, Mondal P, Gurusubramanian G, Roy VK. Mechanistic study of copper nanoparticle (CuNP) toxicity on the mouse uterus via apelin signaling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:88824-88841. [PMID: 37442930 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28746-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) have been widely utilized in various applications. Due to its wider application, humans are at risk of its exposure. It has been reported that the exposure of CuNPs can lead to organ accumulation and affect organ toxicity. Recent study suggested that CuNPs can translocate into the uterus and affect uterine injury in rat, whereas uterine toxicity still remains unclear. The uterus is an important female organ which is required to sustain pregnancy. Thus, uterine structure and physiology are important. Therefore, this study hypothesized that CuNPs might have a toxic effect on the uterine features of mice. In this study, we have investigated the potential effects of CuNPs on the uterus of mice both in vivo and in vitro. In in vivo study, two groups of female mice were exposed to 5 and 50 mg/kg/day via oral exposure. In vivo results showed that CuNP treatment decreases the body weight and uterus weight and changes in antioxidant status with low estrogen and progesterone levels. Furthermore, CuNPs up-regulated the expression of caspase3 and down-regulated the expression of apelin receptor (APJ). Immunolocalization of apelin showed low abundance in the CuNP-treated uterus. These results suggest a poor apelin signaling in the uterus after CuNP treatment. The in vivo findings were further supported by the in vitro studies. Firstly, the uterus was cultured with 5 and 40 μg of CuNPs, and in the second in vitro experiment, the uterus was divided into 4 groups: control, 40 μg of CuNPs, 40 μg of CuNPs with apelin, and 40 μg of CuNPs with apelin receptor antagonist (ML221). In vitro study showed that CuNPs could directly induce the oxidative stress and apoptosis as well as changing antioxidant status in the uterus. The in vitro apelin 13 (APLN 13) treatments alleviated the expression of BCL2 and improved the antioxidant markers in CuNP-treated uterus. These results also provided an evidence of apelin-mediated signaling in the CuNP-treated uterus. In summary, our results present evidence that CuNPs can stimulate apoptotic pathways which may lead to uterine impairment due to weak apelin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borgohain Anima
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796 004, India
| | - Pradip Mondal
- Department of Zoology, Netaji Mahavidyalaya, Hooghly, West Bengal, 712616, India
| | | | - Vikas Kumar Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796 004, India.
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18
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Xu QX, Madhavan M, Wei SW, Zhang WQ, Lu L, Wang KZ, Genna M, Song Y, Zhao Y, Shao HT, Kang JW, Fazleabas AT, Arora R, Su RW. Aberrant activation of Notch1 signaling in the mouse uterine epithelium promotes hyper-proliferation by increasing estrogen sensitivity. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22983. [PMID: 37249327 PMCID: PMC10263383 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201868rr] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the endometrium undergoes dynamic changes in response to estrogen and progesterone to prepare for blastocyst implantation. Two distinct types of endometrial epithelial cells, the luminal (LE) and glandular (GE) epithelial cells play different functional roles during this physiological process. Previously, we have reported that Notch signaling plays multiple roles in embryo implantation, decidualization, and postpartum repair. Here, using the uterine epithelial-specific Ltf-iCre, we showed that Notch1 signaling over-activation in the endometrial epithelium caused dysfunction of the epithelium during the estrous cycle, resulting in hyper-proliferation. During pregnancy, it further led to dysregulation of estrogen and progesterone signaling, resulting in infertility in these animals. Using 3D organoids, we showed that over-activation of Notch1 signaling increased the proliferative potential of both LE and GE cells and reduced the difference in transcription profiles between them, suggesting disrupted differentiation of the uterine epithelium. In addition, we demonstrated that both canonical and non-canonical Notch signaling contributed to the hyper-proliferation of GE cells, but only the non-canonical pathway was involved with estrogen sensitivity in the GE cells. These findings provided insights into the effects of Notch1 signaling on the proliferation, differentiation, and function of the uterine epithelium. This study demonstrated the important roles of Notch1 signaling in regulating hormone response and differentiation of endometrial epithelial cells and provides an opportunity for future studies in estrogen-dependent diseases, such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Xin Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manoj Madhavan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Shu-Wen Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wang-Qing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke-Zhi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Moldovan Genna
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Yong Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Yu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan-Ting Shao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Wen Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
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19
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Casas-Rodríguez A, Moyano R, Molina-Hernández V, Cameán AM, Jos A. Potential oestrogenic effects (following the OECD test guideline 440) and thyroid dysfunction induced by pure cyanotoxins (microcystin-LR, cylindrospermopsin) in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 226:115671. [PMID: 36907345 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Potential endocrine-disrupting properties of cyanotoxins, such as microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) are of concern due to their increasing occurrence, the scarcity of reports on the topic (particularly for CYN) and the impact of human's health at different levels. Thus, this work performed for the first time the uterotrophic bioassay in rats, following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Test Guideline 440, to explore the oestrogenic properties of CYN and MC-LR (75, 150, 300 μg/kg b.w./day) in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Results revealed neither changes in the wet and blotted uterus weights nor in the morphometric study of uteri. Moreover, among the steroid hormones analysed in serum, the most remarkable effect was the dose-dependent increase in progesterone (P) levels in rats exposed to MC-LR. Additionally, a histopathology study of thyroids and serum levels of thyroids hormones were determined. Tissue affectation (follicular hypertrophy, exfoliated epithelium, hyperplasia) was observed, as well as increased T3 and T4 levels in rats exposed to both toxins. Taken together, these results point out that CYN and MC-LR are not oestrogenic compounds at the conditions tested in the uterotrophic assay in OVX rats, but, however, thyroid disruption effects cannot be discarded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Casas-Rodríguez
- Area of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Profesor García González n°2, 41012, Seville, Spain
| | - Rosario Moyano
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas y Toxicología, Facultad de Veterinaria, UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Cordoba, Edificio de Sanidad Animal, Campus de Rabanales, Ctra. Madrid-Cádiz Km 396, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Verónica Molina-Hernández
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas y Toxicología, Facultad de Veterinaria, UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Cordoba, Edificio de Sanidad Animal, Campus de Rabanales, Ctra. Madrid-Cádiz Km 396, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ana María Cameán
- Area of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Profesor García González n°2, 41012, Seville, Spain.
| | - Angeles Jos
- Area of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Profesor García González n°2, 41012, Seville, Spain
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20
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Colón L, Peru E, Zuloaga DG, Poulos AM. Contributions of gonadal hormones in the sex-specific organization of context fear learning. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282293. [PMID: 36862730 PMCID: PMC9980802 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely established that gonadal hormones are fundamental to modulating and organizing the sex-specific nature of reproductive behaviors. Recently we proposed that context fear conditioning (CFC) may emerge in a sex-specific manner organized prior to the pubertal surge of gonadal hormones. Here we sought to determine the necessity of male and female gonadal hormones secreted at critical periods of development upon context fear learning. We tested the organizational hypothesis that neonatal and pubertal gonadal hormones play a permanent role in organizing contextual fear learning. We demonstrate that the postnatal absence of gonadal hormones by neonatal orchiectomy (oRX) in males and ovariectomy (oVX) in females resulted in an attenuation of CFC in adult males and an enhancement of CFC in adult females. In females, the gradual introduction of estrogen before conditioning partially rescued this effect. However, the decrease of CFC in adult males was not rescued by introducing testosterone before conditioning. Next, at a further point in development, preventing the pubertal surge of gonadal hormones by prepubertal oRX in males resulted in a reduction in adult CFC. In contrast, in females, prepubertal oVX did not alter adult CFC. However, the adult introduction of estrogen in prepubertal oVX rats reduced adult CFC. Lastly, the adult-specific deletion of gonadal hormones by adult oRX or oVX alone or replacement of testosterone or estrogen did not alter CFC. Consistent with our hypothesis, we provide initial evidence that gonadal hormones at early periods of development exert a vital role in the organization and development of CFC in male and female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorianna Colón
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Eduardo Peru
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Damian G. Zuloaga
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Andrew M. Poulos
- Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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Luo X, Liu W, Zhao M, Wang J, Gao X, Feng F. The evaluation of sea cucumber ( Acaudina leucoprocta) peptide on sex hormone regulation in normal and premature ovarian failure female mice. Food Funct 2023; 14:1430-1445. [PMID: 36645395 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo01707e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sea cucumber peptides (SCPs) have various functional activities. However, studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SCPs from the perspective of sex hormones are still lacking. In this study, normal and premature ovarian failure (POF) female mice were used to assess the effect of SCPs on the sex hormones. The ovarian and uterine indices were not influenced by SCP both in normal and POF mice. In normal mice, SCP showed no significant impact on the estrous cycle, ovarian, uterine morphology, sex hormone levels, and sex hormone synthesis-related genes of the ovary. However, 0.6 mg per g bw dosage of SCP (SCPH) statistically increased mapk1 expression on normal mice hypothalamus. In POF mice, SCPH played a more positive role than a low dosage of SCP (0.2 mg per g bw). SCP ameliorated POF-induced estrous cycle disturbances and significantly increased serum estradiol, testosterone, and AMH levels. Moreover, SCP increased the synthesis of the sex hormone by upregulating the expression of StAR, Fshr, and Cyp19a1 in the ovary, which might be due to the activation of the cAMP-related signaling pathways. The upregulation of mapk1, Esr1, and Gnrh was also observed in the hypothalamus. Together, SCP is safe for normal female mice and seems to have positive effects on POF mice from sex hormone regulation. However, the risk of excessive supplementation of sex hormones induced by the SCP intake in POF mice needs to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianliang Luo
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Wangxin Liu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Minjie Zhao
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Xinchang Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Fengqin Feng
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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22
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Grgurevic N. Testing the extreme male hypothesis in the valproate mouse model; sex-specific effects on plasma testosterone levels and tyrosine hydroxylase expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, but not on parental behavior. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1107226. [PMID: 36818606 PMCID: PMC9932272 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1107226] [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: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong male bias in prevalence and severity. The extreme male hypothesis proposed that autism is a manifestation of extreme male traits as evidenced by increased masculine behaviors, hypermasculinization of some brain regions, and alterations in androgen metabolism. In the present study, the extreme male hypothesis was tested in the valproate (VPA) mouse model. Methods Females of the C57BL/6JOlaHsd mouse strain were treated with 500 mg/kg VPA on gestational day 12. Offspring of both sexes were tested at 3 to 4 months of age in the elevated plus maze (EPM), open field, sociability tests, and for parental behavior. After sacrifice at 5 to 6 months of age, plasma testosterone was measured in males, while the brains of both sexes were examined for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV). Results VPA treatment significantly increased plasma testosterone levels and decreased AVPV TH expression in males, whereas the expression of TH in females remained at the same level. In parental behavior test none of the pup-oriented behavior was affected by VPA treatment in both sexes, the exception was nest quality which was lower after VPA exposure in males, but not in females. Discussion Our results suggest a hypermasculinizing effect of VPA that occurred specifically in males but not in females, and this effect could be related to changes in androgen physiology. Nevertheless, a generalized interpretation of the extreme male hypothesis on brain and behavior should be avoided due to the complex effects of VPA.
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23
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Rüegg AB, Kowalewski MP, Ulbrich SE. Endometrial extracellular matrix components do not change over the course of embryonic diapause and reactivation in the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:594-604. [PMID: 36645739 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14320] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The modification of the endometrial extracellular matrix (ECM) is a crucial step for embryo implantation in many mammalian species. The embryo of the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) displays a 4-5 months long temporary reduction of developmental pace termed embryonic diapause. A reduction of epithelial cell height during diapause has previously been described. Co-occurring ECM modifications may contribute to the changes of the intra-uterine milieu during reactivation at which the embryo regains developmental velocity. We assessed the localization of five ECM proteins (collagen I and IV, fibronectin, laminin, and extracellular matrix protein 1) using immunohistochemistry in animals with early, late, and post-diapause (elongating) embryos. While our results confirmed the reduction of epithelial height during diapause, we only detected marginal differences in localization and staining intensities of the selected ECM proteins. Major ECM remodelling events in the roe deer endometrium are thus likely to occur only at implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna B Rüegg
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mariusz P Kowalewski
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
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Shanmugam DAS, Dhatchanamurthy S, Leela KA, Bhaskaran RS. Maternal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) causes multigenerational adverse effects on the uterus of F 1 and F 2 offspring rats. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 115:17-28. [PMID: 36435455 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are one of the ubiquitous chemicals found in day-to-day products like food packaging, children's toys, and other consumer commodities. There is rising concern that repeated exposure to phthalates during pregnancy and lactation could have long-term effects on maternal and fetal health. We hypothesize that exposure to DEHP during the developmental windows might affect the expression of molecules that regulate uterine function and that this effect would be passed on to further generations. Rat dams were treated with olive oil (vehicle) or DEHP (100 mg/kg b.wt./day) orally from gestational day 9 (GD 9) to the end of lactation (PND 21). F0 maternal DEHP exposure resulted in multigenerational (F1 and F2) reproductive toxicity, as evidenced by an extended estrous cycle, decreased mating, fertility, and fecundity indices. Serum progesterone and estradiol levels were decreased and their cognate receptors (PR and ERα) in the uterus were decreased in the DEHP-exposed offspring rats. Further analysis of the expression of estrogen and progesterone regulatory genes such as Hox a11, VEGF A, Ihh, LIFR, EP4, PTCH, NR2F2, BMP2, and Wnt4 were reduced in the uteri of adult F1 and F2 generation rats born from DEHP-exposed F0 dams. Decreased expression of these crucial proteins due to DEHP exposure may lead to defects in epithelial proliferation and secretion, uterine receptivity, and decidualization in the uteri of successive generations. This study showed that maternal DEHP exposure impairs the expression of molecules that regulate uterine function and this multigenerational effect is transmitted via maternal lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharani Abirama Sundari Shanmugam
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Sakthivel Dhatchanamurthy
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Kamakshi Arjunan Leela
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Ravi Sankar Bhaskaran
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India.
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25
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A re-appraisal of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) in endometrial epithelial remodeling. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 391:393-408. [PMID: 36401092 PMCID: PMC9889438 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03711-z] [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: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) is a mechanism of endometrial epithelial regeneration. It is also implicated in adenocarcinoma and endometriosis. Little is known about this process in normal uterine physiology. Previously, using pregnancy and menses-like mouse models, MET occurred only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism. Here, we hypothesized that MET also occurs in other physiological endometrial remodeling events, outside of damage/repair, such as during the estrous cycle and adenogenesis (gland development). To investigate this, Amhr2-Cre-YFP/GFP mesenchyme-specific reporter mice were used to track the fate of mesenchymal-derived (MD) cells. Using EpCAM (epithelial marker), EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells were identified in all stages of the estrous cycle except diestrus, in both postpartum and virgin mice. EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells comprised up to 80% of the epithelia during estrogen-dominant proestrus and significantly declined to indistinguishable from control uteri in diestrus, suggesting MET is hormonally regulated. MD-epithelial cells were also identified during postnatal epithelial remodeling. MET occurred immediately after birth at postnatal day (P) 0.5 with EpCAM+GFP+ cells ranging from negligible (0.21%) to 82% of the epithelia. EpCAM+GFP+ MD-epithelial cells declined during initiation of adenogenesis (P8, avg. 1.75%) and then increased during gland morphogenesis (P14, avg. 10%). MD-epithelial cells expressed markers in common with non-MD-epithelial cells (e.g., EpCAM, FOXA2, ESR1, PGR). However, MD-epithelial cells were differentially regulated postnatally and in adults, suggesting a functional distinction in the two populations. We conclude that MET occurs not only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism but also during other epithelial remodeling events, which to our knowledge has not been demonstrated in other tissues.
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26
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Kehmeier MN, Bedell BR, Cullen AE, Khurana A, D'Amico HJ, Henson GD, Walker AE. In vivo arterial stiffness, but not isolated artery endothelial function, varies with the mouse estrous cycle. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2022; 323:H1057-H1067. [PMID: 36240435 PMCID: PMC9678414 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00369.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With the increasing appreciation for sex as a biological variable and the inclusion of female mice in research, it is important to understand the influence of the estrous cycle on physiological function. Sex hormones are known to modulate vascular function, but the effects of the mouse estrous cycle phase on arterial stiffness, endothelial function, and arterial estrogen receptor expression remain unknown. In 23 female C57BL/6 mice (6 mo of age), we determined the estrous cycle stage via vaginal cytology and plasma hormone concentrations. Aortic stiffness, assessed by pulse wave velocity, was lower during the estrus phase compared with diestrus. In ex vivo assessment of isolated pressurized mesenteric and posterior cerebral arteries, the responses to acetylcholine, insulin, and sodium nitroprusside, as well as nitric oxide-mediated dilation, were not different between estrous cycle phases. In the aorta, expression of phosphorylated estrogen receptor-α was higher for mice in estrus compared with mice in proestrus. In the cerebral arteries, gene expression for estrogen receptor-β (Esr2) was lowest for mice in estrus compared with diestrus and proestrus. These results demonstrate that the estrus phase is associated with lower in vivo large artery stiffness in mice. In contrast, ex vivo resistance artery endothelial function is not different between estrous cycle phases. Estrogen receptor expression is modulated by the estrus cycle in an artery-dependent manner. These results suggest that the estrous cycle phase should be considered when measuring in vivo arterial stiffness in young female mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY To design rigorous vascular research studies using young female rodents, the influence of the estrous cycle on vascular function must be known. We found that in vivo aortic stiffness was lower during estrus compared with the diestrus phase in female mice. In contrast, ex vivo mesenteric and cerebral artery endothelial function did not differ between estrous cycle stages. These results suggest that the estrous cycle stage should be accounted for when measuring in vivo arterial stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bradley R Bedell
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Abigail E Cullen
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Aleena Khurana
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Holly J D'Amico
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Grant D Henson
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Ashley E Walker
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
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27
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Gutierrez-Castellanos N, Husain BFA, Dias IC, Lima SQ. Neural and behavioral plasticity across the female reproductive cycle. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:769-785. [PMID: 36253276 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Sex is fundamental for the evolution and survival of most species. However, sex can also pose danger, because it increases the risk of predation and disease transmission, among others. Thus, in many species, cyclic fluctuations in the concentration of sex hormones coordinate sexual receptivity and attractiveness with female reproductive capacity, promoting copulation when fertilization is possible and preventing it otherwise. In recent decades, numerous studies have reported a wide variety of sex hormone-dependent plastic rearrangements across the entire brain, including areas relevant for female sexual behavior. By contrast, how sex hormone-induced plasticity alters the computations performed by such circuits, such that collectively they produce the appropriate periodic switches in female behavior, is mostly unknown. In this review, we highlight the myriad sex hormone-induced neuronal changes known so far, the full repertoire of behavioral changes across the reproductive cycle, and the few examples where the relationship between sex hormone-dependent plasticity, neural activity, and behavior has been established. We also discuss current challenges to causally link the actions of sex hormones to the modification of specific cellular pathways and behavior, focusing on rodents as a model system while drawing a comparison between rodents and humans wherever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Basma F A Husain
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês C Dias
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Q Lima
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal.
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28
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Chávez-Genaro R, Toledo A, Hernández K, Anesetti G. Structural and functional changes in rat uterus induced by neonatal androgenization. J Mol Histol 2022; 53:903-914. [PMID: 36201133 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-022-10106-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Fetal or neonatal androgen exposure has a programming effect on ovarian function inducing a polycystic ovarian syndrome-like condition. Its effects on uterine structure and function are poorly studied. The aim of this work was to characterize the temporal course of changes in the rat uterine structure induced by neonatal exposure to aromatizable or not aromatizable androgens. Rats were daily treated with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone or vehicle during follicle assembly period (postnatal days 1 to 5). Uterine histoarchitecture, hormonal milieu, endometrial stromal collagen and capillary density were analyzed at prepubertal, pubertal and adult ages. Our data shows that neonatal androgen exposure induces early and long-lasting deleterious effects on uterine development, including altered adenogenesis and superficial epithelial alterations and suggest a role for altered serum estradiol levels in the maintenance and worsening of the situation. Our results suggest that alterations of the neonatal androgenic environment on the uterus could be responsible for alterations in the processes of implantation and maintenance of the embryo in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Chávez-Genaro
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Agustina Toledo
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Karina Hernández
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gabriel Anesetti
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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29
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Strehle LD, Russart KLG, Burch VA, Grant CV, Pyter LM. Ovarian status modulates endocrine and neuroinflammatory responses to a murine mammary tumor. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2022; 323:R432-R444. [PMID: 35993563 PMCID: PMC9512114 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00124.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Patients with breast cancer have increased circulating inflammatory markers and mammary tumors increase neuroinflammation in rodent models. Menopausal status is not only important in the context of breast cancer as circulating estrogen influences tumor progression, but also because estrogen is anti-inflammatory and an essential modulator of endocrine function in the brain and body. Here, we manipulated "menopause" status (ovary-intact and ovariectomized) in an estrogen receptor (ER)+ mouse mammary tumor model to determine the extent to which ovarian status modulates: 1) tumor effects on estrogen concentrations and signaling in the brain, 2) tumor effects on estrogen-associated neurobiology and inflammation, and 3) the ability for tumor resection to resolve the effects of a tumor. We hypothesized that reduced circulating estradiol (E2) after an ovariectomy exacerbates tumor-induced peripheral and central inflammation. Notably, we observed ovarian-dependent modulation on tumor-induced peripheral outcomes, including E2-dependent processes and, to a lesser degree, circulating inflammatory markers. In the brain, ovariectomy exacerbated neuroinflammatory markers in select brain regions and modulated E2-related neurobiology due to a tumor and/or resection. Overall, our data suggest that ovarian status has moderate implications for tumor-induced alterations in neuroendocrinology and neuroinflammation and mild effects on peripheral inflammatory outcomes in this murine mammary tumor model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay D Strehle
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kathryn L G Russart
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Valerie A Burch
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Corena V Grant
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Leah M Pyter
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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30
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Bairagi J, Saikia PJ, Boro F, Hazarika A. Fertility regulatory potential of Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Delarbre methanolic root extract in female albino mice: An insight into the phytochemicals present and role of the extract in contraception. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1623-1638. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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31
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Lee SH, Yap YHY, Lim CL, Woo ARE, Lin VCL. Activation function 1 of progesterone receptor is required for mammary development and regulation of RANKL during pregnancy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12286. [PMID: 35854046 PMCID: PMC9296660 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16289-x] [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: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone receptor (PGR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors. It is critical for mammary stem cells expansion, mammary ductal branching and alveologenesis. The transcriptional activity of PGR is mainly mediated by activation functions AF1 and AF2. Although the discovery of AF1 and AF2 propelled the understanding of the mechanism of gene regulation by nuclear receptors, their physiological roles are still poorly understood. This is largely due to the lack of suitable genetic models. The present study reports gain or loss of AF1 function mutant mouse models in the study of mammary development. The gain of function mutant AF1_QQQ exhibits hyperactivity while the loss of function mutant AF1_FFF shows hypoactivity on mammary development. However, the involvement of AF1 is context dependent. Whereas the AF1_FFF mutation causes significant impairment in mammary development during pregnancy or in response to estrogen and progesterone, it has no effect on mammary development in nulliparous mice. Furthermore, Rankl, but not Wnt4 and Areg is a major target gene of AF1. In conclusion, PGR AF1 is a pivotal ligand-dependent activation domain critical for mammary development during pregnancy and it exerts gene specific effect on PGR regulated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Hao Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Yeannie H Y Yap
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.,Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Bandar Saujana Putra, 42610, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chew Leng Lim
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Amanda Rui En Woo
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Valerie C L Lin
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
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Rempuia V, Anima B, Jeremy M, Gurusubramanian G, Pankaj PP, Kharwar RK, Roy VK. Effects of metformin on the uterus of d-galactose-induced aging mice: Histomorphometric, immunohistochemical localization (B-cell lymphoma 2, Bcl2-associated X protein, and active capase3), and oxidative stress study. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:600-611. [PMID: 35286779 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
d-galactose (DG)-induced rodent aging model has widely been used for the study of age-related dysfunctions of various organs, including gonads and uterus. Antidiabetic drug metformin has gained an attention as antiaging drug in model organism and human but its effect on uterus has not been studied in relation to induced aging. Therefore, we investigated the effect of metformin on uterus of DG-induced aging mice model. Mice were randomly divided into three groups, that is, control (CN), DG-induced aging model and aging model treated with metformin. Histomorphometric results showed significantly decreased number of uterine glands, endometrial thickness, and increased luminal epithelium height in aging model. Furthermore, metformin resumed the number of uterine glands, endometrial thickness, and luminal epithelium height up to CN group. Metformin has also significantly decreased the age-associated oxidative stress (malondialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxide). Superoxide dismutase was significantly decreased in both treated groups compared to the CN group. However, catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes were significantly increased by metformin compared to the aging model. Immunostaining of active caspase3 and BAX were intense in the endometrium of aging model compare to CN- and metformin-treated groups. Localization of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) showed intense immunostaining in the uterus of CN- and metformin-treated groups, with mild immunostaining in aging model. Our observations suggested that metformin treatment might be helpful for management of age-associated uterine dysfunctions. Moreover, it may be concluded that metformin might ameliorate uterine dysfunctions by reducing oxidative stress, suppressing apoptosis, and increasing the survival/antiapoptotic protein Bcl2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanlal Rempuia
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | - Borgohain Anima
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | | | | | - Pranay P Pankaj
- Department of Zoology, Nagaland University, Lumami, Nagaland, India
| | - Rajesh K Kharwar
- Department of Zoology, Kutir Post Graduate College, Chakkey, Jaunpur, India
| | - Vikas K Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
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Gilfarb RA, Leuner B. GABA System Modifications During Periods of Hormonal Flux Across the Female Lifespan. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:802530. [PMID: 35783228 PMCID: PMC9245048 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.802530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The female lifespan is marked by periods of dramatic hormonal fluctuation. Changes in the ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone, in addition to the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, are among the most significant and have been shown to have widespread effects on the brain. This review summarizes current understanding of alterations that occur within the GABA system during the major hormonal transition periods of puberty, the ovarian cycle, pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as reproductive aging. The functional impacts of altered inhibitory activity during these times are also discussed. Lastly, avenues for future research are identified, which, if pursued, can broaden understanding of the GABA system in the female brain and potentially lead to better treatments for women experiencing changes in brain function at each of these hormonal transition periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A. Gilfarb
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Benedetta Leuner
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Benedetta Leuner,
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Golal E, Balci CN, Ustunel I, Acar N. The investigation of hippo signaling pathway in mouse uterus during peri-implantation period. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1795-1809. [PMID: 35708783 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06660-8] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Events in the uterus during the peri-implantation period include embryo development, acquisition of uterine receptivity, implantation and decidualization. Hippo signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. We aimed to determine localization and expressions of pYAP (Phospho Yes-associated protein), YAP (Yes-associated protein), TEAD1 (TEA domain family member 1) and CTGF (Connective tissue growth factor), members of the Hippo signaling pathway, in the mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. METHODS Pregnant mice were randomly separated into 5 groups: 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th days of pregnancy groups. Non-pregnant female mice in estrous phase were included in the estrous group. Uteri and implantation sites were collected. Also, inter-implantation sites were collected from the 5th day of pregnancy group. pYAP, YAP, TEAD-1 and CTGF were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. RESULTS We observed that the expressions of YAP, TEAD-1 and CTGF were increased in the luminal and glandular epithelium on the 1st and 4th days of pregnancy when epithelial proliferation occurred. pYAP expression was high, and YAP and CTGF expressions were low in the luminal epithelium of the implantation sites on the 5th day of pregnancy, when epithelial differentiation occurred. pYAP expression was low, YAP and CTGF expressions were high at implantation sites on the 6th and 8th days of pregnancy, where decidua was formed. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the Hippo signaling pathway might be involved in implantation and decidualization. Our findings will guide further studies and may help to elucidate underlying causes of implantation failure and pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Golal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Cemre Nur Balci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ustunel
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Nuray Acar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
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Larson AA, Shams AS, McMillin SL, Sullivan BP, Vue C, Roloff ZA, Batchelor E, Kyba M, Lowe DA. Estradiol deficiency reduces the satellite cell pool by impairing cell cycle progression. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 322:C1123-C1137. [PMID: 35442828 PMCID: PMC9169829 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00429.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The size of the satellite cell pool is reduced in estradiol (E2)-deficient female mice and humans. Here, we use a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches to identify mechanisms, whereby E2 deficiency impairs satellite cell maintenance. By measuring satellite cell numbers in mice at several early time points postovariectomy (Ovx), we determine that satellite cell numbers decline by 33% between 10 and 14 days post-Ovx in tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles. At 14 days post-Ovx, we demonstrate that satellite cells have a reduced propensity to transition from G0/G1 to S and G2/M phases, compared with cells from ovary-intact mice, associated with changes in two key satellite cell cycle regulators, ccna2 and p16INK4a. Further, freshly isolated satellite cells treated with E2 in vitro have 62% greater cell proliferation and require less time to complete the first division. Using clonal and differentiation assays, we measured 69% larger satellite cell colonies and enhanced satellite cell-derived myoblast differentiation with E2 treatment compared with vehicle-treated cells. Together, these results identify a novel mechanism for preservation of the satellite cell pool by E2 via promotion of satellite cell cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexie A Larson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Ahmed S Shams
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Human Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Shawna L McMillin
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Brian P Sullivan
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Cha Vue
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Zachery A Roloff
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Eric Batchelor
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Michael Kyba
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Wright EB, Lannigan DA. ERK1/2‐RSK regulation of oestrogen homeostasis. FEBS J 2022; 290:1943-1953. [PMID: 35176205 PMCID: PMC9381647 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms regulating oestrogen homeostasis have been primarily studied in the mammary gland, which is the focus of this review. In the non-pregnant adult, the mammary gland undergoes repeated cycles of proliferation and apoptosis in response to the fluctuating levels of oestrogen that occur during the reproductive stage. Oestrogen actions are mediated through the steroid hormone receptors, oestrogen receptor α and β and through a G-protein coupled receptor. In the mammary gland, ERα is of particular importance and thus will be highlighted. Mechanisms regulating oestrogen-induced responses through ERα are necessary to maintain homeostasis given that the signalling pathways that are activated in response to ERα-mediated transcription can also induce transformation. ERK1/2 and its downstream effector, p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK), control homeostasis in the mammary gland by limiting oestrogen-mediated ERα responsiveness. ERK1/2 drives degradation coupled ERα-mediated transcription, whereas RSK2 acts as a negative regulator of ERK1/2 activity to limit oestrogen responsiveness. Moreover, RSK2 acts as a positive regulator of translation. Thus, RSK2 provides both positive and negative signals to maintain oestrogen responsiveness. In addition to transmitting signals through tyrosine kinase receptors, ERK1/2-RSK engages with hedgehog signalling to maintain oestrogen levels and with the HIPPO pathway to regulate ERα-mediated transcription. Additionally, ERK1/2-RSK controls the progenitor populations within the mammary gland to maintain the ERα-positive population. RSK2 is involved in increased breast cancer risk in individuals taking oral contraceptives and in parity-induced protection against breast cancer. RSK2 and ERα may also co-operate in diseases in tissues outside of the mammary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric B. Wright
- Biomedical Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville TN USA
| | - Deborah A. Lannigan
- Biomedical Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville TN USA
- Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
- Cell and Developmental Biology Vanderbilt University Nashville TN USA
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Elliot SJ, Catanuto P, Pereira-Simon S, Xia X, Pastar I, Thaller S, Head CR, Stojadinovic O, Tomic-Canic M, Glassberg MK. Catalase, a therapeutic target in the reversal of estrogen-mediated aging. Mol Ther 2022; 30:947-962. [PMID: 34174444 PMCID: PMC8821897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing interest in the reversal of age-related processes, there is a paucity of data regarding the effects of post-menopausal-associated estrogen loss on cellular function. We studied human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) isolated from women younger than 45 years old (pre-menopause, pre-hASC) or older than 55 years old (post-menopause, post-hASC). In this study, we provide proof of concept that the age-related ineffective functionality of ASCs can be reversed to improve their ability in promoting tissue repair. We found reduced estrogen receptor expression, decreased estrogen receptor activation, and reduced sensitivity to 17β-estradiol in post-hASCs. This correlated with decreased antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase [SOD] expression) and increased oxidative stress compared with pre-hASCs. Increasing catalase expression in post-hASCs restored estrogen receptor (ER) expression and their functional capacity to promote tissue repair as shown in human skin ex vivo wound healing and in vivo mouse model of lung injury. Our results suggest that the consequences of 17β-estradiol decline on the function of hASCs may be reversible by changing the oxidative stress/antioxidant composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon J. Elliot
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA,Corresponding author: Sharon J. Elliot, DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Paola Catanuto
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Simone Pereira-Simon
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Xiaomei Xia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Irena Pastar
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Seth Thaller
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Cheyanne R. Head
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Olivera Stojadinovic
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marjana Tomic-Canic
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marilyn K. Glassberg
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA,Corresponding author: Marilyn K. Glassberg, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA.
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Shindo S, Moore R, Yi M, Negishi M. Detection and Functional Analysis of Estrogen Receptor α Phosphorylated at Serine 216 in Mouse Neutrophils. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2418:63-75. [PMID: 35119660 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1920-9_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Serine 216 constitutes a protein kinase C phosphorylation motif located within the DNA binding domain of estrogen receptor α (ERα). In this chapter, we present experimental procedures confirming that mouse ERα is phosphorylated at serine 216 in peripheral blood neutrophils and in neutrophils that infiltrate the uterus, as well as the role of phosphoserine 216 in neutrophil migration. A phospho-peptide antibody (αP-S216) was utilized in Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and double immunofluorescence staining to detect this phosphorylation of an endogenous ERα. Both immunohistochemistry (with αP-S216 or neutrophil marker Ly6G antibody) and double immunofluorescence staining of mouse uterine sections prepared from C3H/HeNCrIBR females revealed that phosphorylated ERα was expressed in all infiltrating neutrophils during hormonal cycles but not in any other of the other uterine cells. Neutrophils infiltrate the uterus from the bloodstream. White blood cells (WBC) were prepared from peripheral blood of C3H/HeNCrIBR females or males and double immunostained. Blood neutrophils also expressed phosphorylated ERα but in only about 20% of cells in both sexes. Only the neutrophils expressing phosphorylated ERα spontaneously migrated in in vitro Transwell migration assays and infiltrated the uterus in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawako Shindo
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Rick Moore
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - MyeongJin Yi
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Masahiko Negishi
- Pharmacogenetics Section, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
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Estrogen depletion alters osteogenic differentiation and matrix production by osteoblasts in vitro. Exp Cell Res 2021; 408:112814. [PMID: 34492267 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that the effects of estrogen deficiency are not restricted to osteoclasts and bone resorption, but that bone matrix composition is altered and osteoblasts exhibit an impaired response to mechanical stimulation. In this study, we test the hypothesis that estrogen depletion alters osteogenic differentiation and matrix production by mechanically stimulated osteoblasts in vitro. MC3T3-E1 cells were pre-treated with estrogen for 14 days, after which estrogen was withdrawn or inhibited with Fulvestrant up to 14 days. Fluid shear stress (FSS) was applied using an orbital shaker. Under estrogen depletion in static culture, osteogenic marker (ALP) and gene expression (Runx2) were decreased at 2 and after 7 days of estrogen depletion, respectively. In addition, up to 7 day the inhibition of the estrogen receptor significantly decreased fibronectin expression (FN1) under static conditions. Under estrogen depletion and daily mechanical stimulation, changes in expression of Runx2 occurred earlier (4 days) and by 14 days, changes in matrix production (Col1a1) were reported. We propose that changes in osteoblast differentiation and impaired matrix production during estrogen depletion may contribute to the altered quality of the bone and act as a contributing factor to increased bone fragility in postmenopausal osteoporosis.
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Cui L, Xu F, Jiang Z, Wang S, Li X, Ding Y, Zhang Y, Du M. Melatonin regulates proliferation and apoptosis of endometrial stromal cells via MT1. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2021; 53:1333-1341. [PMID: 34343226 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmab108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial dysfunction is an important factor for implantation failure. The function of the endometrium is regulated by multiple factors like sex hormones and circadian rhythms. Endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) are a major cellular component in the endometrium, which is essential for proper physiological activities of the endometrium and the establishment of pregnancy. Melatonin, as a circadian-controlled hormone, plays beneficial roles in the regulation of reproductive processes. MT1, a melatonin receptor, can regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis. Whether melatonin-MT1 signal affects biological function of ESCs remains unknown. Here, we showed that MT1 was expressed in human ESCs (hESCs), which could be regulated by estrogen and progesterone. MT1 knockdown inhibited proliferative activity and promoted apoptosis of hESCs by activating caspase-3 and upregulating the Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Melatonin could reverse the effect of MT1 knockdown on proliferative activity and apoptosis of hESCs. Melatonin could promote proliferative activity of hESCs via the JNK/P38 signal pathway and repress the apoptosis of hESCs via the JNK signal pathway. Moreover, in vivo experiments showed that MT1 expression was decreased in endometrial cells from mice with disrupted circadian rhythm, accompanied by increased apoptosis and suppressed proliferative activity, which could be alleviated by administration of melatonin. These results showed the regulatory effect of melatonin-MT1 signal on biological behaviors of ESCs, which might provide a novel therapeutic strategy for endometrial dysfunction induced by disrupted circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Cui
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Feng Xu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Zhuxuan Jiang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First People’s Hospital of Yangzhou, Yangzhou Medical University, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Songcun Wang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Yan Ding
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Meirong Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200090, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, China
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Primary HSV-2 Infection in Early Pregnancy Results in Transplacental Viral Transmission and Dose-Dependent Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in a Novel Mouse Model. Viruses 2021; 13:v13101929. [PMID: 34696359 PMCID: PMC8538385 DOI: 10.3390/v13101929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection affects 24 million births annually and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including neonatal herpes; however, the mechanisms underlying in utero transmission of HSV-2 are largely unknown. We examined the effects of primary HSV-2 infection during early pregnancy on gestational outcomes in a novel, clinically relevant mouse model. Pregnant C57BL/6 mice were infected intravaginally with 102–105 pfu/mL HSV-2 on gestation day (gd) 4.5. Controls were infected, nonpregnant, diestrus-staged mice and pregnant, uninfected mice. Compared to nonpregnant mice, pregnant mice were 100-fold more susceptible to HSV-2 infection. Three days post-inoculation (gd7.5), viral DNA was present in implantation sites, but pregnancy outcomes were largely unaffected by infection. Eight days post-inoculation (gd12.5), HSV-2 DNA persisted in placental tissues, resulting in inflammation and hemorrhage. Fetal and placental weights were reduced and fetal loss was observed with high viral doses. HSV-2 DNA and increased expression of pro-inflammatory mediators were detected in fetal tissues at gd12.5, signifying viral transmission and fetal infection, even with low viral doses. This mouse model shows a dose-dependent effect of primary HSV-2 infection on pregnancy outcomes and suggests that fetal loss may occur due to placental inflammation, thus providing valuable insight into in utero transmission of HSV-2.
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Fakira AK, Lueptow LM, Trimbake NA, Devi LA. PEN Receptor GPR83 in Anxiety-Like Behaviors: Differential Regulation in Global vs Amygdalar Knockdown. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:675769. [PMID: 34512237 PMCID: PMC8427670 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.675769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are prevalent across the United States and result in a large personal and societal burden. Currently, numerous therapeutic and pharmaceutical treatment options exist. However, drugs to classical receptor targets have shown limited efficacy and often come with unpleasant side effects, highlighting the need to identify novel targets involved in the etiology and treatment of anxiety disorders. GPR83, a recently deorphanized receptor activated by the abundant neuropeptide PEN, has also been identified as a glucocorticoid regulated receptor (and named GIR) suggesting that this receptor may be involved in stress-responses that underlie anxiety. Consistent with this, GPR83 null mice have been found to be resistant to stress-induced anxiety. However, studies examining the role of GPR83 within specific brain regions or potential sex differences have been lacking. In this study, we investigate anxiety-related behaviors in male and female mice with global knockout and following local GPR83 knockdown in female mice. We find that a global knockdown of GPR83 has minimal impact on anxiety-like behaviors in female mice and a decrease in anxiety-related behaviors in male mice. In contrast, a local GPR83 knockdown in the basolateral amygdala leads to more anxiety-related behaviors in female mice. Local GPR83 knockdown in the central amygdala or nucleus accumbens (NAc) showed no significant effect on anxiety-related behaviors. Finally, dexamethasone administration leads to a significant decrease in receptor expression in the amygdala and NAc of female mice. Together, our studies uncover a significant, but divergent role for GPR83 in different brain regions in the regulation of anxiety-related behaviors, which is furthermore dependent on sex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lakshmi A. Devi
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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Retinoic acid exerts sexually dimorphic effects on muscle energy metabolism and function. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101101. [PMID: 34419449 PMCID: PMC8441203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101101] [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: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinol dehydrogenase Rdh10 catalyzes the rate-limiting reaction that converts retinol into retinoic acid (RA), an autacoid that regulates energy balance and reduces adiposity. Skeletal muscle contributes to preventing adiposity, by consuming nearly half the energy of a typical human. We report sexually dimorphic differences in energy metabolism and muscle function in Rdh10+/- mice. Relative to wild-type (WT) controls, Rdh10+/- males fed a high-fat diet decrease reliance on fatty-acid oxidation and experience glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Running endurance decreases 40%. Rdh10+/- females fed this diet increase fatty acid oxidation and experience neither glucose intolerance nor insulin resistance. Running endurance increases 220%. We therefore assessed RA function in the mixed-fiber type gastrocnemius muscles (GM), which contribute to running, rather than standing, and are similar to human GM. RA levels in Rdh10+/- male GM decrease 38% relative to WT. Rdh10+/- male GM increase expression of Myog and reduce Eif6 mRNAs, which reduce and enhance running endurance, respectively. Cox5A, complex IV activity, and ATP decrease. Increased centralized nuclei reveal existence of muscle malady and/or repair in GM fibers. Comparatively, RA in Rdh10+/- female GM decreases by less than half the male decrease, from a more modest decrease in Rdh10 and an increase in the estrogen-induced retinol dehydrogenase Dhrs9. Myog mRNA decreases. Cox5A, complex IV activity, and ATP increase. Centralized GM nuclei do not increase. We conclude that Rdh10/RA affects whole body energy use and insulin resistance partially through sexual dimorphic effects on skeletal muscle gene expression, structure, and mitochondria activity.
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Human HAND1 Inhibits the Conversion of Cholesterol to Steroids in Trophoblasts. J Genet Genomics 2021; 49:350-363. [PMID: 34391879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Steroidogenesis from cholesterol in placental trophoblasts is fundamentally involved in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. The transcription factor gene Heart And Neural crest Derivatives expressed 1 (Hand1) promotes differentiation of mouse trophoblast giant cells. However, the role of HAND1 in human trophoblasts remains unknown. Here, we report that HAND1 inhibits human trophoblastic progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) from cholesterol through down-regulation of the expression of steroidogenic enzymes including aromatase, P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (3β-HSD1). Mechanically, while HAND1 inhibits transcription of aromatase by directly binding to aromatase gene promoter, it restrains transcription of P450scc by up-regulation of the methylation status of P450scc gene promoter through its binding to ALKBH1, a demethylase. Unlike aromatase and P450scc, HAND1 decreases 3β-HSD1 mRNA levels by reduction of its RNA stability through binding to and subsequent destabilization of protein HuR. Finally, HAND1 suppresses circulating P4 and E2 levels derived from JEG-3 xenograft, and attenuates uterine response to P4 and E2. Thus, our results uncover a hitherto uncharacterized role of HAND1 in regulation of cholesterol metabolism in human trophoblasts, which may help pinpoint the underlying mechanisms involved in supporting the development and physiological function of the human placenta.
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Sahay D, Lloyd SE, Rivera JA, Jezioro J, McDonald JD, Pitiranggon M, Yan B, Szabolcs M, Terry MB, Miller RL. Prenatal polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, altered ERα pathway-related methylation and expression, and mammary epithelial cell proliferation in offspring and grandoffspring adult mice. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 196:110961. [PMID: 33675803 PMCID: PMC8119355 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.110961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) possess carcinogenic and endocrine disrupting properties linked to mammary tumorigenesis. These effects may be initiated during a prenatal period of susceptibility to PAH activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr) and through downstream effects on estrogen receptor (Er) α. PURPOSE We hypothesized prenatal airborne PAH exposure induces sustained effects in female adult wild type BALB/cByj mice detected in the offspring (F1) and grandoffspring (F2) generation. We hypothesized these effects would include altered expression and epigenetic regulation of Erα and altered expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor (Ahrr, Ahrr/aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (Arnt), and breast cancer type 1 susceptibility (Brca1). Further, we hypothesized that PAH would induce precancerous outcomes such as epithelial cell proliferation and epithelial cell hyperplasia in mammary glands of adult female offspring and grandoffspring. RESULTS Prenatal ambient PAH exposure lowered Erα mRNA expression (F1 and F2: p<0.001 for each) and induced methylation in the Erα promoter in mammary tissue in offspring and grandoffspring mice on postnatal day (PND) 60. Prenatal PAH lowered Brca1 mRNA (F1: p=0.002, F2: p=0.02); Erα mRNA was correlated with Brca1 (F1: r=0.42, p=0.02; F2: r=0.53, p=0.005). Prenatal PAH lowered Ahrr (F1: p=0.03, F2: p=0.009) and raised Arnt mRNA expression (F1: p=0.01, F2: p=0.03). Alterations in Erα mRNA (F2: p<0.0001) and Ahrr (F2: p=0.02) in the grandoffspring mice also occured by PND 28, and similarly occurred in the dam on postpartum day (PPD) 28. Finally, prenatal PAH was associated with higher mammary epithelial cell proliferation in the offspring (p=0.02), but not grandoffspring mice, without differences in the frequency of mammary cell hyperplasia. These results did not differ after adjustment by each candidate gene expression level. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal PAH exposure induces DNA methylation and alters gene expression in the Erα-mediated pathway across generations, and suggests that functional outcomes such as mammary cell proliferation also may occur in offspring as a result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debashish Sahay
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care of Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Susan E Lloyd
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Janelle A Rivera
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care of Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Jacqueline Jezioro
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care of Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Jacob D McDonald
- Department of Toxicology, Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Masha Pitiranggon
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University, Palisades, NY, United States
| | - Beizhan Yan
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University, Palisades, NY, United States
| | - Matthias Szabolcs
- Department of Pathology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Mary Beth Terry
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Rachel L Miller
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care of Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States.
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Ludwik KA, Sandusky ZM, Stauffer KM, Li Y, Boyd KL, O'Doherty GA, Stricker TP, Lannigan DA. RSK2 Maintains Adult Estrogen Homeostasis by Inhibiting ERK1/2-Mediated Degradation of Estrogen Receptor Alpha. Cell Rep 2021; 32:107931. [PMID: 32697984 PMCID: PMC7465694 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to estrogens, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), a critical regulator of homeostasis, is degraded through the 26S proteasome. However, despite the continued presence of estrogen before menopause, ERα protein levels are maintained. We discovered that ERK1/2-RSK2 activity oscillates during the estrous cycle. In response to high estrogen levels, ERK1/2 is activated and phosphorylates ERα to drive ERα degradation and estrogen-responsive gene expression. Reduction of estrogen levels results in ERK1/2 deactivation. RSK2 maintains redox homeostasis, which prevents sustained ERK1/2 activation. In juveniles, ERK1/2-RSK2 activity is not required. Mammary gland regeneration demonstrates that ERK1/2-RSK2 regulation of ERα is intrinsic to the epithelium. Reduced RSK2 and enrichment in an estrogen-regulated gene signature occur in individuals taking oral contraceptives. RSK2 loss enhances DNA damage, which may account for the elevated breast cancer risk with the use of exogenous estrogens. These findings implicate RSK2 as a critical component for the preservation of estrogen homeostasis. Ludwik et al. find that ERK1/2-RSK2 activity oscillates with each reproductive cycle. The estrogen surge activates ERK1/2, which phosphorylates estrogen receptor alpha to drive estrogen responsiveness. Active RSK2 acts as a brake on the estrogen response by maintaining redox homeostasis. Oral contraceptive use correlates with disruption of ERK1/2-RSK2 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna A Ludwik
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Zachary M Sandusky
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Kimberly M Stauffer
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kelli L Boyd
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - George A O'Doherty
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Thomas P Stricker
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Deborah A Lannigan
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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Lottini T, Iorio J, Lastraioli E, Carraresi L, Duranti C, Sala C, Armenio M, Noci I, Pillozzi S, Arcangeli A. Transgenic mice overexpressing the LH receptor in the female reproductive system spontaneously develop endometrial tumour masses. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8847. [PMID: 33893331 PMCID: PMC8065064 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87492-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor for the luteinizing hormone (LH-R) is aberrantly over expressed in cancers of the reproductive system. To uncover whether LH-R over expression has a causative role in cancer, we generated a transgenic (TG) mouse which overexpresses the human LH-R (hLH-R) in the female reproductive tract, under the control of the oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OGP) mouse promoter (mogp-1). The transgene was highly expressed in the uterus, ovary and liver, but only in the uterus morphological and molecular alterations (increased proliferation and trans-differentiation in the endometrial layer) were detected. A transcriptomic analysis on the uteri of young TG mice showed an up regulation of genes involved in cell cycle control and a down regulation of genes related to the immune system and the metabolism of xenobiotics. Aged TG females developed tumor masses in the uteri, which resembled an Endometrial Cancer (EC). Microarray and immunohistochemistry data indicated the deregulation of signaling pathways which are known to be altered in human ECs. The analysis of a cohort of 126 human ECs showed that LH-R overexpression is associated with early-stage tumors. Overall, our data led support to conclude that LH-R overexpression may directly contribute to trigger the neoplastic transformation of the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziano Lottini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Jessica Iorio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Lastraioli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Duranti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Cesare Sala
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Miriam Armenio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Ivo Noci
- Department of Biochemical, Experimental and Clinical Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Serena Pillozzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Annarosa Arcangeli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni, 50, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- CSDC-Center for the Study of Complex Dynamics, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
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Aitken RJ, Curry BJ, Shokri S, Pujianto DA, Gavriliouk D, Gibb Z, Whiting S, Connaughton HS, Nixon B, Salamonsen LA, Baker MA. Evidence that extrapancreatic insulin production is involved in the mediation of sperm survival. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 526:111193. [PMID: 33610643 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Evidence is presented for expression of the insulin receptor on the surface of mammalian spermatozoa as well as transcripts for the receptor substrate adaptor proteins (IRS1-4) needed to mediate insulin action. Exposure to this hormone resulted in insulin receptor phosphorylation (pTyr972), activation of AKT (pSer473) and the stimulation of sperm motility. Intriguingly, the male germ line is also shown to be capable of generating insulin, possessing the relevant mRNA transcript and expressing strong immunocytochemical signals for both insulin and C-peptide. Insulin could be released from the spermatozoa by sonication in a concentration-dependent manner but was not secreted in response to glucose, fructose or stimulation with progesterone. However, insulin release could be induced by factors present in human uterine lavages. Furthermore, the endometrium was also shown to possess the machinery for insulin production and action (mRNA, insulin, C-peptide, proprotein convertase and insulin receptor), releasing insulin into the uterine lumen prior to ovulation. These studies emphasize the fundamental importance of extra-pancreatic insulin in regulating the reproductive process, particularly in the support of spermatozoa on their perilous voyage to the site of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305.
| | - Benjamin J Curry
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Said Shokri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Daniel Gavriliouk
- Family Fertility Centre, Ashford Specialist Centre, SA, 5035, Australia
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Sara Whiting
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Hayley S Connaughton
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Centre for Reproductive Health, Monash University, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Mark A Baker
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305
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Cousins FL, Pandoy R, Jin S, Gargett CE. The Elusive Endometrial Epithelial Stem/Progenitor Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:640319. [PMID: 33898428 PMCID: PMC8063057 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.640319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes approximately 450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifetime. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells residing in the basalis layer of the tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells have been extensively studied in the endometrium, whereas endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells have remained more elusive. This review details the discovery of human and mouse endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells. It highlights recent significant developments identifying putative markers of these epithelial stem/progenitor cells that reveal their in vivo identity, location in both human and mouse endometrium, raising common but also different viewpoints. The review also outlines the techniques used to identify epithelial stem/progenitor cells, specifically in vitro functional assays and in vivo lineage tracing. We will also discuss their known interactions and hierarchy and known roles in endometrial dynamics across the menstrual or estrous cycle including re-epithelialization at menses and regeneration of the tissue during the proliferative phase. We also detail their potential role in endometrial proliferative disorders such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ronald Pandoy
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Shiying Jin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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50
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Santorelli S, Fischer DP, Harte MK, Laru J, Marshall KM. In vivo effects of AZD4547, a novel fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor, in a mouse model of endometriosis. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 9:e00759. [PMID: 33811484 PMCID: PMC8019068 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.759] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disease, characterized by the growth of endometrial-like cells outside the uterine cavity. Due to its complex pathophysiology, a totally resolving cure is yet to be found. The aim of this study was to compare the therapeutic efficacy of AZD4547, a novel fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor (FGFRI), with a well-characterized progestin, etonogestrel (ENG) using a validated in vivo mouse model of endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced by transplanting uterine fragments from donor mice in proestrus into the peritoneal cavity of recipient mice, which then developed into cyst-like lesions. AZD4547 and ENG were administered systemically either from the day of endometriosis induction or 2-weeks post-surgery. After 20 days of treatment, the lesions were harvested; their size and weight were measured and analyzed histologically or by qRT-PCR. Stage of estrous cycle was monitored throughout. Compared to vehicle, AZD4547 (25 mg/kg) was most effective in counteracting lesion growth when treating from day of surgery and 2 weeks after; ENG (0.8 mg/kg) was similarly effective in reducing lesion growth but only when administered from day of surgery. Each downregulated FGFR gene expression (p < 0.05). AZD4547 at all doses and ENG (0.008 mg/kg) caused no disturbance to the estrous cycle. ENG at 0.08 and 0.8 mg/kg was associated with partial or complete estrous cycle disruption and hyperemia of the uteri. AZD4547 and ENG both attenuated endometriotic lesion size, but only AZD4547 did not disrupt the estrous cycle, suggesting that targeting of FGFR is worthy of further investigation as a novel treatment for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Santorelli
- NorthWest Centre for Advanced Drug Delivery (NoWCADD), School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Deborah P Fischer
- NorthWest Centre for Advanced Drug Delivery (NoWCADD), School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael K Harte
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Johanna Laru
- Early Product Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, iMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, UK
| | - Kay M Marshall
- NorthWest Centre for Advanced Drug Delivery (NoWCADD), School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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