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Alkhatib B, Ciarelli J, Ghnenis A, Pallas B, Olivier N, Padmanabhan V, Vyas AK. Early- to mid-gestational testosterone excess leads to adverse cardiac outcomes in postpartum sheep. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 327:H315-H330. [PMID: 38819385 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00763.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular dysfunctions complicate 10-20% of pregnancies, increasing the risk for postpartum mortality. Various gestational insults, including preeclampsia are reported to be associated with adverse maternal cardiovascular outcomes. One such insult, gestational hyperandrogenism increases the risk for preeclampsia and other gestational morbidities but its impact on postpartum maternal health is not well known. We hypothesize that gestational hyperandrogenism such as testosterone (T) excess will adversely impact the maternal heart in the postpartum period. Pregnant ewes were injected with T propionate from day 30 to day 90 of gestation (term 147 days). Three months postpartum, echocardiograms, plasma cytokine profiles, cardiac morphometric, and molecular analysis were conducted [control (C) n = 6, T-treated (T) n = 7 number of animals]. Data were analyzed by two-tailed Student's t test and Cohen's effect size (d) analysis. There was a nonsignificant large magnitude decrease in cardiac output (7.64 ± 1.27 L/min vs. 10.19 ± 1.40, P = 0.22, d = 0.81) and fractional shortening in the T ewes compared with C (35.83 ± 2.33% vs. 41.50 ± 2.84, P = 0.15, d = 0.89). T treatment significantly increased 1) left ventricle (LV) weight-to-body weight ratio (2.82 ± 0.14 g/kg vs. 2.46 ± 0.08) and LV thickness (14.56 ± 0.52 mm vs. 12.50 ± 0.75), 2) proinflammatory marker [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)] in LV (1.66 ± 0.35 vs. 1.06 ± 0.18), 3) LV collagen (Masson's Trichrome stain: 3.38 ± 0.35 vs. 1.49 ± 0.15 and Picrosirius red stain: 5.50 ± 0.32 vs. 3.01 ± 0.23), 4) markers of LV apoptosis, including TUNEL (8.3 ± 1.1 vs. 0.9 ± 0.18), bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax)+-to-b-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2)+ ratio (0.68 ± 0.30 vs. 0.13 ± 0.02), and cleaved caspase 3 (15.4 ± 1.7 vs. 4.4 ± 0.38). These findings suggest that gestational testosterone excess adversely programs the maternal LV, leading to adverse structural and functional consequences in the postpartum period.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a sheep model of human translational relevance, this study provides evidence that excess gestational testosterone exposure such as that seen in hyperandrogenic disorders adversely impacts postpartum maternal hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar Alkhatib
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Joseph Ciarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Adel Ghnenis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Brooke Pallas
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Nicholas Olivier
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, Lansing, Michigan, United States
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Arpita Kalla Vyas
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, United States
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Noroozzadeh M, Rahmati M, Amiri M, Saei Ghare Naz M, Azizi F, Ramezani Tehrani F. Preconceptional maternal hyperandrogenism and metabolic syndrome risk in male offspring: a long-term population-based study. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02374-7. [PMID: 38647948 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02374-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is limited research on the effects of maternal hyperandrogenism (MHA) on cardiometabolic risk factors in male offspring. We aimed to compare the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in sons of women with preconceptional hyperandrogenism (HA) to those of non-HA women in later life. METHODS Using data obtained from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Cohort Study, with an average of 20 years follow-up, 1913 sons were divided into two groups based on their MHA status, sons with MHA (n = 523) and sons without MHA (controls n = 1390). The study groups were monitored from the baseline until either the incidence of events, censoring, or the end of the study period, depending on which occurred first. Age-scaled unadjusted and adjusted Cox regression models were utilized to evaluate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between MHA and MetS in their sons. RESULTS There was no significant association between MHA and HR of MetS in sons with MHA compared to controls, even after adjustment (unadjusted HR (95% CI) 0.94 (0.80-1.11), P = 0.5) and (adjusted HR (95% CI) 0.98 (0.81-1.18), P = 0.8). Sons with MHA showed a HR of 1.35 for developing high fasting blood sugar compared to controls (unadjusted HR (95% CI) 1.35 (1.01-1.81), P = 0.04), however, after adjustment this association did not remain significant (adjusted HR (95% CI) 1.25 (0.90-1.74), P = 0.1). CONCLUSION The results suggest that preconceptional MHA doesn't increase the risk of developing MetS in sons in later life. According to this suggestion, preconceptional MHA may not have long-term metabolic consequences in male offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Noroozzadeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Rahmati
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Amiri
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- The Foundation for Research & Education Excellence, Vestavia Hills, AL, USA
| | - M Saei Ghare Naz
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- The Foundation for Research & Education Excellence, Vestavia Hills, AL, USA.
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Saadat N, Pallas B, Ciarelli J, Vyas AK, Padmanabhan V. Gestational testosterone excess early to mid-pregnancy disrupts maternal lipid homeostasis and activates biosynthesis of phosphoinositides and phosphatidylethanolamines in sheep. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6230. [PMID: 38486090 PMCID: PMC10940674 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56886-6] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Gestational hyperandrogenism is a risk factor for adverse maternal and offspring outcomes with effects likely mediated in part via disruptions in maternal lipid homeostasis. Using a translationally relevant sheep model of gestational testosterone (T) excess that manifests maternal hyperinsulinemia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and adverse offspring cardiometabolic outcomes, we tested if gestational T excess disrupts maternal lipidome. Dimensionality reduction models following shotgun lipidomics of gestational day 127.1 ± 5.3 (term 147 days) plasma revealed clear differences between control and T-treated sheep. Lipid signatures of gestational T-treated sheep included higher phosphoinositides (PI 36:2, 39:4) and lower acylcarnitines (CAR 16:0, 18:0, 18:1), phosphatidylcholines (PC 38:4, 40:5) and fatty acids (linoleic, arachidonic, Oleic). Gestational T excess activated phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) and PI biosynthesis. The reduction in key fatty acids may underlie IUGR and activated PI for the maternal hyperinsulinemia evidenced in this model. Maternal circulatory lipids contributing to adverse cardiometabolic outcomes are modifiable by dietary interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Saadat
- Department of Pediatrics, 7510 MSRB, University of Michigan, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 148019-5718, USA
| | - Brooke Pallas
- Unit Lab Animal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joseph Ciarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, 7510 MSRB, University of Michigan, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 148019-5718, USA
| | - Arpita Kalla Vyas
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, 7510 MSRB, University of Michigan, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 148019-5718, USA.
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Markantes GK, Panagodimou E, Koika V, Mamali I, Kaponis A, Adonakis G, Georgopoulos NA. Placental mRNA Expression of Neurokinin B Is Increased in PCOS Pregnancies with Female Offspring. Biomedicines 2024; 12:334. [PMID: 38397936 PMCID: PMC10886712 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Current research suggests that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) might originate in utero and implicates the placenta in its pathogenesis. Kisspeptin (KISS1) and neurokinin B (NKB) are produced by the placenta in high amounts, and they have been implicated in several pregnancy complications associated with placental dysfunction. However, their placental expression has not been studied in PCOS. We isolated mRNA after delivery from the placentae of 31 PCOS and 37 control women with term, uncomplicated, singleton pregnancies. The expression of KISS1, NKB, and neurokinin receptors 1, 2, and 3 was analyzed with real-time polymerase chain reaction, using β-actin as the reference gene. Maternal serum and umbilical cord levels of total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), free androgen index (FAI), androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and estradiol were also assessed. NKB placental mRNA expression was higher in PCOS women versus controls in pregnancies with female offspring. NKB expression depended on fetal gender, being higher in pregnancies with male fetuses, regardless of PCOS. NKB was positively correlated with umbilical cord FAI and AMH, and KISS1 was positively correlated with cord testosterone and FAI; there was also a strong positive correlation between NKB and KISS1 expression. Women with PCOS had higher serum AMH and FAI and lower SHBG than controls. Our findings indicate that NKB might be involved in the PCOS-related placental dysfunction and warrant further investigation. Studies assessing the placental expression of NKB should take fetal gender into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios K Markantes
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Evangelia Panagodimou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Koika
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Irene Mamali
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Apostolos Kaponis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - George Adonakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Neoklis A Georgopoulos
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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Meakin AS, Smith M, Morrison JL, Roberts CT, Lappas M, Ellery SJ, Holland O, Perkins A, McCracken SA, Flenady V, Clifton VL. Placenta-Specific Transcripts Containing Androgen Response Elements Are Altered In Silico by Male Growth Outcomes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1688. [PMID: 38338965 PMCID: PMC10855055 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031688] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A birthweight centile (BWC) below the 25th is associated with an elevated risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, particularly among males. This male vulnerability may stem from alterations in placenta-specific androgen signalling, a signalling axis that involves the androgen receptor (AR)-mediated regulation of target genes containing androgen response elements (AREs). In this study, we examined global and ARE-specific transcriptomic signatures in term male placentae (≥37 weeks of gestation) across BWC subcategories (<10th, 10th-30th, >30th) using RNA-seq and gene set enrichment analysis. ARE-containing transcripts in placentae with BWCs below the 10th percentile were upregulated compared to those in the 10th-30th and >30th percentiles, which coincided with the enrichment of gene sets related to hypoxia and the suppression of gene sets associated with mitochondrial function. In the absence of ARE-containing transcripts in silico, <10th and 10th-30th BWC subcategory placentae upregulated gene sets involved in vasculature development, immune function, and cell adhesion when compared to those in the >30th BWC subcategory. Collectively, our in silico findings suggest that changes in the expression of ARE-containing transcripts in male placentae may contribute to impaired placental vasculature and therefore result in reduced fetal growth outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S. Meakin
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
| | - Melanie Smith
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia; (M.S.); (C.T.R.)
| | - Janna L. Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
| | - Claire T. Roberts
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia; (M.S.); (C.T.R.)
| | - Martha Lappas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia;
| | - Stacey J. Ellery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia;
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Olivia Holland
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia; (O.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Anthony Perkins
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia; (O.H.); (A.P.)
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4556, Australia
| | - Sharon A. McCracken
- Women and Babies Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia;
| | - Vicki Flenady
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
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Kumar S, Song R, Mishra JS. Elevated gestational testosterone impacts vascular and uteroplacental function. Placenta 2023:S0143-4004(23)00598-2. [PMID: 37977936 PMCID: PMC11087376 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Maternal vascular adaptations to establish an adequate blood supply to the uterus and placenta are essential for optimal nutrient and oxygen delivery to the developing fetus in eutherian mammals, including humans. Numerous factors contribute to maintaining appropriate hemodynamics and placental vascular development throughout pregnancy. Failure to achieve or sustain these pregnancy-associated changes in women is strongly associated with an increased risk of antenatal complications, such as preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. The precise etiology of preeclampsia is unknown, but emerging evidence points to a potential role for androgens. The association between androgens and maternal cardiovascular and placental function merits particular attention due to the notable 2- to 3-fold elevated plasma testosterone (T) levels observed in preeclampsia. T levels in preeclamptic women positively correlate with vascular dysfunction, and preeclampsia is associated with increased androgen receptor (AR) levels in placental tissues. Moreover, animal studies replicating the pattern and magnitude of T increase observed in preeclamptic pregnancies have reproduced key features of preeclampsia, including gestational hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, heightened vasoconstriction to angiotensin II, impaired spiral artery remodeling, placental hypoxia, reduced nutrient transport, and fetal growth restriction. Collectively, these findings suggest that AR-mediated activity plays a significant role in the clinical presentation of preeclampsia. This review critically evaluates this hypothesis, considering both clinical and preclinical evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53792, USA.
| | - Ruolin Song
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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Rubin JM, Pinter SZ, Halloran KM, Pallas BD, Fowlkes JB, Vyas AK, Padmanabhan V, Kripfgans OD. Placental assessment using spectral analysis of the envelope of umbilical venous waveforms in sheep. Placenta 2023; 142:119-127. [PMID: 37699274 PMCID: PMC10954287 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.08.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study was designed to test the efficacy of an ultrasound flow measurement method to evaluate placental function in a hyperandrogenic sheep model that produces placental morphologic changes and an intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) phenotype. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pregnant ewes were assigned randomly between control (n = 12) and testosterone-treatment (T-treated, n = 22) groups. The T-treated group was injected twice weekly intramuscularly (IM) with 100 mg testosterone propionate. Control sheep were injected with corn oil vehicle. Lambs were delivered at 119.5 ± 0.48 days gestation. At the time of delivery of each lamb, flow spectra were generated from one fetal artery and two fetal veins, and the spectral envelopes examined using fast Fourier transform analysis. Base 10 logarithms of the ratio of the amplitudes of the maternal and fetal spectral peaks (LRSP) in the venous power spectrum were compared in the T-treated and control populations. In addition, we calculated the resistive index (RI) for the artery defined as ((peak systole - min diastole)/peak systole). Two-tailed T-tests were used for comparisons. RESULTS LRSPs, after removal of significant outliers, were -0.158 ± 0.238 for T-treated and 0.057 ± 0.213 for control (p = 0.015) animals. RIs for the T-treated sheep fetuses were 0.506 ± 0.137 and 0.497 ± 0.086 for controls (p = 0.792) DISCUSSION: LRSP analysis distinguishes between T-treated and control sheep, whereas RIs do not. LRSP has the potential to identify compromised pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Rubin
- University of Michigan Department of Radiology, Medical Sciences Building 1, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2026, USA.
| | - Stephen Z Pinter
- University of Michigan Department of Radiology, Medical Sciences Building 1, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2026, USA.
| | - Katherine M Halloran
- University of Michigan Department of Pediatrics, 7510 MSRB1, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5718, USA.
| | - Brooke D Pallas
- University of Michigan Address Unit Lab Animal Medicine, 2800 Plymouth Rd. NCRC-G090, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2800, USA.
| | - J Brian Fowlkes
- University of Michigan Department of Radiology, Medical Sciences Building 1, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2026, USA.
| | - Arpita K Vyas
- Washington University in St. Louis Department of Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Place, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- University of Michigan Department of Pediatrics, 7510 MSRB1, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5718, USA.
| | - Oliver D Kripfgans
- University of Michigan Department of Radiology, Medical Sciences Building 1, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2026, USA.
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Liu D, Gan Y, Zhang Y, Cui L, Tao T, Zhang J, Zhao J. Fetal genome predicted birth weight and polycystic ovary syndrome in later life: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1140499. [PMID: 37351103 PMCID: PMC10282929 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1140499] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Associations between lower birth weight and higher polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) risk have been reported in previous observational studies, however, the causal relationship is still unknown. Based on decomposed fetal and maternal genetic effects on birth weight (n = 406,063), we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess potential causal relationships between fetal genome predicted birth weight and PCOS risk using a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) including 4,138 PCOS cases and 20,129 controls. To further eliminate the maternally transmitted or non-transmitted effects on fetal growth, we performed a secondary MR analysis by utilizing genetic instruments after excluding maternally transmitted or non-transmitted variants, which were identified in another birth weight GWAS (n = 63,365 parent-offspring trios from Icelandic birth register). Linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSR) analysis was conducted to estimate the genetic correlation. We found little evidence to support a causal effect of fetal genome determined birth weight on the risk of developing PCOS (primary MR analysis, OR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.43; secondary MR analysis, OR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.54 to 1.39). In addition, a marginally significant genetic correlation (rg = -0.14, se = 0.07) between birth weight and PCOS was revealed via LDSR analysis. Our findings indicated that observed associations between birth weight and future PCOS risk are more likely to be attributable to genetic pleiotropy driven by the fetal genome rather than a causal mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Ministry of Education and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuexin Gan
- Ministry of Education and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhao
- Ministry of Education and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Farhadi-Azar M, Noroozzadeh M, Ghahremani M, Rahmati M, Saei Ghare Naz M, Azizi F, Ramezani Tehrani F. Maternal androgen excess increases the risk of pre-diabetes mellitus in male offspring in later life: a long-term population-based follow-up study. J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-022-01972-7. [PMID: 37081228 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01972-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prenatal androgen exposure could be a source of early programming, leading to the development of cardiometabolic diseases in later life. In this study, we aimed to examine cardiometabolic disturbances in males exposed to maternal androgen excess during their prenatal life. METHODS In this prospective population-based study, 409 male offspring with maternal hyperandrogenism (MHA), and 954 male offspring without MHA, as controls, were included. Both groups of male offspring were followed from the baseline to the date of the incidence of events, censoring, or end of the study period, whichever came first. Age-scaled unadjusted and adjusted Cox regression models were applied to assess the hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between MHA with pre-diabetes mellitus (Pre-DM), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), pre-hypertension (Pre-HTN), hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, overweight, and obesity in the offspring of both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the STATA software package; the significance level was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS A higher risk of Pre-DM (adjusted HR: 1.46 (1.20, 1.78)) was observed in male offspring with MHA after adjustment for potential confounders, including body mass index, education, and physical activity. However, no significant differences were observed in the risk of T2DM, Pre-HTN, HTN, dyslipidemia, overweight, and obesity in males with MHA compared to controls in both the unadjusted and adjusted models. CONCLUSION Maternal androgen excess increases the risk of Pre-DM in male offspring in later life. More longitudinal studies with long enough follow-up are needed to clarify the effects of MHA on the cardiometabolic risk factors of male offspring in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Farhadi-Azar
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 23 Arabi, Yaman Street, VelenjakTehran, 1985717413, Iran
| | - M Noroozzadeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 23 Arabi, Yaman Street, VelenjakTehran, 1985717413, Iran.
| | - M Ghahremani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - M Rahmati
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 23 Arabi, Yaman Street, VelenjakTehran, 1985717413, Iran
| | - M Saei Ghare Naz
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 23 Arabi, Yaman Street, VelenjakTehran, 1985717413, Iran
| | - F Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 23 Arabi, Yaman Street, VelenjakTehran, 1985717413, Iran
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10
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Makela B, Recktenwald E, Alves FC, Ehrhardt R, Veiga-Lopez A. Effect of pre-conceptional nutrition and season on fetal growth during early pregnancy in sheep. Theriogenology 2022; 190:22-31. [PMID: 35914348 PMCID: PMC9574784 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Gestational age in sheep can be closely predicted through ultrasonographic measurement of fetal bones when correlated to standardized fetal growth curves. However, these standardized curves do not account for factors that are known modulators of fetal growth, such as maternal nutrition or health status. Despite being seasonal breeders, and studies reporting an effect of season on birth weight, the influence of season on fetal growth has not been well characterized. In this study, we hypothesized that season of conception will affect fetal growth curves during mid-gestation and that pre-conceptional nutrition would have no effect. We investigated this by provisioning treatments of low, control, and high planes of nutrition during the lactation and flushing pre-conceptional periods to multiparous Dorset x Polypay and Dorset ewes over two seasons (the optimal breeding season [n = 97] and the suboptimal breeding season [n = 104]). Females were mated naturally with mating dates recorded, fetal biparietal diameter measured via ultrasound between gestational days 35-71, and newborn weights recorded at lambing. Pre-conceptional nutritional treatments did not affect fetal biparietal diameter. However, low vs. high nutrition in the pre-conceptional lactation (but not flushing) period resulted in reduced lamb birth weights (P < 0.001). Early fetal growth tended to be faster in the suboptimal breeding season than in the optimal breeding season (P < 0.061) with lambs being heavier at birth in the optimal breeding season (P < 0.001). There was no effect of fetal sex or litter size on fetal biparietal diameter during the first half of pregnancy, however both sex and litter size influenced lamb birth weight (P < 0.001) with males being heavier than females and singletons being heavier than twins and triplets. Mating date within the flushing period had a significant effect on lamb birth weight regardless of season and independent of treatment, with ewes that conceived later in the flushing period having heavier lambs at birth (P = 0.007). These findings suggest that pre-conceptional under- or overnutrition resulting in substantial changes in body condition does not affect fetal growth during the first half of pregnancy. However, the reduction in lamb birth weight indicates that pre-conceptional maternal nutrition during the previous lactation period may affect fetal growth later in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Makela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Erin Recktenwald
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Filipe Couto Alves
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Richard Ehrhardt
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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11
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Gopalakrishnan K, Mishra JS, Ross JR, Abbott DH, Kumar S. Hyperandrogenism diminishes maternal-fetal fatty acid transport by increasing FABP 4-mediated placental lipid accumulation. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:514-528. [PMID: 35357467 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac059] [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: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are critical for fetal brain development. Infants born to preeclamptic mothers or those born growth restricted due to placental insufficiency have reduced LCPUFA, and are at higher risk for developing neurodevelopmental disorders. Since plasma levels of testosterone (T) and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) are elevated in preeclampsia, we hypothesized that elevated T induces the expression of FABP4 in the placenta leading to compromised transplacental transport of LCPUFAs. Increased maternal T in pregnant rats significantly decreased n-3 and n-6 LCPUFA levels in maternal and fetal circulation, but increased their placental accumulation. Dietary LCPUFAs supplementation in T dams increased LCPUFA levels in the maternal circulation and further augmented placental storage, while failing to increase fetal levels. The placenta in T dams exhibited increased FABP4 mRNA and protein levels. In vitro, T dose-dependently upregulated FABP4 transcription in trophoblasts. T stimulated androgen receptor (AR) recruitment to the androgen response element and trans-activated FABP4 promoter activity, both of which were abolished by AR antagonist. T in pregnant rats and cultured trophoblasts significantly reduced transplacental transport of C14-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and increased C14-DHA accumulation in the placenta. Importantly, FABP4-overexpression by itself in pregnant rats and trophoblasts increased transplacental transport of C14-DHA with no significant placental accumulation. T exposure, in contrast, inhibited this FABP4-mediated effect by promoting C14-DHA placental accumulation. In summary, our studies show that maternal hyperandrogenism increases placental FABP4 expression via transcriptional upregulation and preferentially routes LCPUFAs toward cellular storage in the placenta leading to offspring lipid deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathirvel Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jordan R Ross
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA.,Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
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12
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Meakin AS, Gough M, Saif Z, Clifton VL. An ex vivo approach to understanding sex-specific differences in placental androgen signalling in the presence and absence of inflammation. Placenta 2022; 120:49-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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13
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Neven ACH, Mousa A, Boyle JA, Teede HJ. Endocrine and metabolic interactions in healthy pregnancies and hyperinsulinemic pregnancies affected by polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes and obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:993619. [PMID: 36733795 PMCID: PMC9886898 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.993619] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the fetoplacental unit is key in the pronounced physiological endocrine changes which support pregnancy, fetal development and survival, birth and lactation. In healthy women, pregnancy is characterized by changes in insulin sensitivity and increased maternal androgen levels. These are accompanied by a suite of mechanisms that support fetal growth, maintain glucose homeostasis and protect both mother and fetus from adverse effects of pregnancy induced insulin and androgen excess. In pregnancies affected by endocrine, metabolic disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes and obesity, there is an imbalance of beneficial and adverse impacts of pregnancy induced endocrine changes. These inter-related conditions are characterized by an interplay of hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism which influence fetoplacental function and are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, macrosomia, preterm delivery and caesarean section. However, the exact underlying mechanisms and relationships of the endocrine and metabolic milieu in these disorders and the impact they have on the prenatal endocrine environment and developing fetus remain poorly understood. Here we aim to review the complex endocrine and metabolic interactions in healthy women during normal pregnancies and those in pregnancies complicated by hyperinsulinemic disorders (PCOS, diabetes and obesity). We also explore the relationships between these endocrine and metabolic differences and the fetoplacental unit, pregnancy outcomes and the developing fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana C. H. Neven
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Aya Mousa
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A. Boyle
- Monash Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Jacqueline A. Boyle,
| | - Helena J. Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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14
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Furukawa S, Tsuji N, Hayashi S, Kuroda Y, Kimura M, Hayakawa C, Takeuchi K, Sugiyama A. Effects of testosterone on rat placental development. J Toxicol Pathol 2022; 35:37-44. [PMID: 35221494 PMCID: PMC8828613 DOI: 10.1293/tox.2021-0035] [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: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the morphological effects of testosterone on placental development in a
rat model of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Testosterone propionate (TP), which was
subcutaneously administered to pregnant rats with 5 mg/animal from gestation day (GD) 14
to GD 18, induced a maternal weight reduction without mortality or clinical signs from GD
19 onwards. A decrease in fetal and placental weight, an increase in intrauterine growth
retardation (IUGR) rates, and histological changes in the placenta were observed on GD 21
but not on GD15 or 17. Histopathologically, on GD 21, the trophoblast septa thickened, and
the maternal sinusoids were narrowed in the labyrinth zone, resulting in a small placenta.
Additionally, the placental weight, thickness, and histological morphology in the
labyrinth zone on GD 21 in the TP-treated group were nearly identical to those on GD 17 in
the control and TP-treated groups. Therefore, it was assumed that the testosterone-induced
small placenta was induced in association with the developmental inhibition of the fetal
part of the placentas from GD 17 onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Furukawa
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Naho Tsuji
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Seigo Hayashi
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kuroda
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kimura
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Chisato Hayakawa
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Kazuya Takeuchi
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Akihiko Sugiyama
- Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoinooka, Imabari-shi, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
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15
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Meakin AS, Cuffe JSM, Darby JRT, Morrison JL, Clifton VL. Let's Talk about Placental Sex, Baby: Understanding Mechanisms That Drive Female- and Male-Specific Fetal Growth and Developmental Outcomes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6386. [PMID: 34203717 PMCID: PMC8232290 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well understood that sex differences exist between females and males even before they are born. These sex-dependent differences may contribute to altered growth and developmental outcomes for the fetus. Based on our initial observations in the human placenta, we hypothesised that the male prioritises growth pathways in order to maximise growth through to adulthood, thereby ensuring the greatest chance of reproductive success. However, this male-specific "evolutionary advantage" likely contributes to males being less adaptable to shifts in the in-utero environment, which then places them at a greater risk for intrauterine morbidities or mortality. Comparatively, females are more adaptable to changes in the in-utero environment at the cost of growth, which may reduce their risk of poor perinatal outcomes. The mechanisms that drive these sex-specific adaptations to a change in the in-utero environment remain unclear, but an increasing body of evidence within the field of developmental biology would suggest that alterations to placental function, as well as the feto-placental hormonal milieu, is an important contributing factor. Herein, we have addressed the current knowledge regarding sex-specific intrauterine growth differences and have examined how certain pregnancy complications may alter these female- and male-specific adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S. Meakin
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - James S. M. Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Jack R. T. Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Janna L. Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
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16
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Zhang FF, Zhang Q, Wang YL, Wang FF, Hardiman PJ, Qu F. Intergenerational Influences between Maternal Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Offspring: An Updated Overview. J Pediatr 2021; 232:272-281. [PMID: 33482217 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Fang Zhang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Lin Wang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fang-Fang Wang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Paul J Hardiman
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fan Qu
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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17
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Andræ F, Abbott D, Stridsklev S, Schmedes AV, Odsæter IH, Vanky E, Salvesen Ø. Sustained Maternal Hyperandrogenism During PCOS Pregnancy Reduced by Metformin in Non-obese Women Carrying a Male Fetus. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5899825. [PMID: 32866967 PMCID: PMC7538101 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Large, longitudinal studies on androgen levels in pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are lacking. While metformin has a mild androgen-lowering effect in non-pregnant women with PCOS, its effects on maternal androgen levels in pregnancy are less well understood. OBJECTIVE To describe androgen patterns in pregnant women with PCOS and in healthy control women, and to explore the potential effects of metformin on maternal androgen levels in PCOS. DESIGN AND SETTING A post hoc analysis from a randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter study carried out at 11 secondary care centers and a longitudinal single-center study on healthy pregnant women in Norway. PARTICIPANTS A total of 262 women with PCOS and 119 controls. INTERVENTION The participants with PCOS were randomly assigned to metformin (2 g daily) or placebo, from first trimester to delivery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and free testosterone index (FTI) at 4 time points in pregnancy. RESULTS Women with PCOS versus healthy controls had higher A4, T, and FTI, and lower SHBG at all measured time points in pregnancy. In the overall cohort of women with PCOS, metformin had no effect on A4, T, SHBG, and FTI. In subgroup analyses, metformin reduced A4 (P = 0.019) in nonobese women. Metformin also reduced A4 (P = 0.036), T (P = 0.023), and SHBG (P = 0.010) levels through pregnancy in mothers with a male fetus. CONCLUSION Metformin had no effect on maternal androgens in PCOS pregnancies. In subgroup analyses, a modest androgen-lowering effect was observed in nonobese women with PCOS. In PCOS women carrying a male fetus, metformin exhibited an androgen-lowering effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Andræ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordlandssykehuset, Bodø, Norway
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Frida Andræ, Kvinneklinikken i Bodø, Nordlandssykehuset HF Postboks 1480, NO-8092 Bodø, Norway. E-mail:
| | - David Abbott
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Centre, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Solhild Stridsklev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Olavs hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Ingrid Hov Odsæter
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eszter Vanky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Olavs hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Øyvind Salvesen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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18
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Dumesic DA, Hoyos LR, Chazenbalk GD, Naik R, Padmanabhan V, Abbott DH. Mechanisms of intergenerational transmission of polycystic ovary syndrome. Reproduction 2020; 159:R1-R13. [PMID: 31376813 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Developmental origins of adult disease (DoHAD) refers to critical gestational ages during human fetal development and beyond when the endocrine metabolic status of the mother can permanently program the physiology and/or morphology of the fetus, modifying its susceptibility to disease after birth. The aim of this review is to address how DoHAD plays an important role in the phenotypic expression of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrinopathy of women characterized by hyperandrogenism, oligo-anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology. Clinical studies of PCOS women are integrated with findings from relevant animal models to show how intergenerational transmission of these central components of PCOS are programmed through an altered maternal endocrine-metabolic environment that adversely affects the female fetus and long-term offspring health. Prenatal testosterone treatment in monkeys and sheep have been particularly crucial in our understanding of developmental programming of PCOS because organ system differentiation in these species, as in humans, occurs during fetal life. These animal models, along with altricial rodents, produce permanent PCOS-like phenotypes variably characterized by LH hypersecretion from reduced steroid-negative feedback, hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, increased adiposity, impaired glucose-insulin homeostasis and other metabolic abnormalities. The review concludes that DoHAD underlies the phenotypic expression of PCOS through an altered maternal endocrine-metabolic environment that can induce epigenetic modifications of fetal genetic susceptibility to PCOS after birth. It calls for improved maternal endocrine-metabolic health of PCOS women to lower their risks of pregnancy-related complications and to potentially reduce intergenerational susceptibility to PCOS and its metabolic derangements in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Dumesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Luis R Hoyos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Gregorio D Chazenbalk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rajanigandha Naik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Meakin AS, Saif Z, Seedat N, Clifton VL. The impact of maternal asthma during pregnancy on fetal growth and development: a review. Expert Rev Respir Med 2020; 14:1207-1216. [PMID: 32825809 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2020.1814148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is a highly prevalent co-morbidity during pregnancy that can worsen as gestation progresses and is associated with several adverse perinatal outcomes. These adverse outcomes often result from uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy and acute asthma exacerbations that are associated with alterations in placental function and fetal growth. AREAS COVERED This paper will discuss how maternal asthma in pregnancy affects fetal growth and development which may alter future offspring health. Changes in placental function occur in a sex-specific manner in pregnancies complicated by asthma and result in differences in fetal growth and development which may influence child health. The follow up of children from mothers with asthma suggests they are at greater risk of developing asthma, have alterations in microvascular structure that may contribute to a future risk of cardiovascular disease and epigenetic modifications in immune cell function. The current evidence suggests that appropriately managed asthma during pregnancy results in normal fetal growth and development. EXPERT OPINION Clinical management of asthma during pregnancy needs significant improvement to prevent adverse outcomes for the fetus. The key to improving maternal and fetal outcomes is through education of health professionals and parents about controlling asthma during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S Meakin
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Zarqa Saif
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Nabila Seedat
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
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20
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Mishra JS, Blesson CS, Kumar S. Testosterone Decreases Placental Mitochondrial Content and Cellular Bioenergetics. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9070176. [PMID: 32698476 PMCID: PMC7407169 DOI: 10.3390/biology9070176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Placental mitochondrial dysfunction plays a central role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Since preeclampsia is a hyperandrogenic state, we hypothesized that elevated maternal testosterone levels induce damage to placental mitochondria and decrease bioenergetic profiles. To test this hypothesis, pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats were injected with vehicle or testosterone propionate (0.5 mg/kg/day) from gestation day (GD) 15 to 19. On GD20, the placentas were isolated to assess mitochondrial structure, copy number, ATP/ADP ratio, and biogenesis (Pgc-1α and Nrf1). In addition, in vitro cultures of human trophoblasts (HTR-8/SVneo) were treated with dihydrotestosterone (0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 nM), and bioenergetic profiles using seahorse analyzer were assessed. Testosterone exposure in pregnant rats led to a 2-fold increase in plasma testosterone levels with an associated decrease in placental and fetal weights compared with controls. Elevated maternal testosterone levels induced structural damage to the placental mitochondria and decreased mitochondrial copy number. The ATP/ADP ratio was reduced with a parallel decrease in the mRNA and protein expression of Pgc-1α and Nrf1 in the placenta of testosterone-treated rats compared with controls. In cultured trophoblasts, dihydrotestosterone decreased the mitochondrial copy number and reduced PGC-1α, NRF1 mRNA, and protein levels without altering the expression of mitochondrial fission/fusion genes. Dihydrotestosterone exposure induced significant mitochondrial energy deficits with a dose-dependent decrease in basal respiration, ATP-linked respiration, maximal respiration, and spare respiratory capacity. In summary, our study suggests that the placental mitochondrial dysfunction induced by elevated maternal testosterone might be a potential mechanism linking preeclampsia to feto-placental growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay S. Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | - Chellakkan S. Blesson
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
- Correspondence:
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21
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Stener-Victorin E, Padmanabhan V, Walters KA, Campbell RE, Benrick A, Giacobini P, Dumesic DA, Abbott DH. Animal Models to Understand the Etiology and Pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa010. [PMID: 32310267 PMCID: PMC7279705 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
More than 1 out of 10 women worldwide are diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the leading cause of female reproductive and metabolic dysfunction. Despite its high prevalence, PCOS and its accompanying morbidities are likely underdiagnosed, averaging > 2 years and 3 physicians before women are diagnosed. Although it has been intensively researched, the underlying cause(s) of PCOS have yet to be defined. In order to understand PCOS pathophysiology, its developmental origins, and how to predict and prevent PCOS onset, there is an urgent need for safe and effective markers and treatments. In this review, we detail which animal models are more suitable for contributing to our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of PCOS. We summarize and highlight advantages and limitations of hormonal or genetic manipulation of animal models, as well as of naturally occurring PCOS-like females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kirsty A Walters
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- School of Health Sciences and Education, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 - LilNCog - Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Daniel A Dumesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, California
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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22
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Hord TK, Aubone AMP, Ali A, Templeton HN, Evans R, Bruemmer JE, Winger QA, Bouma GJ. Placenta specific gene targeting to study histone lysine demethylase and androgen signaling in ruminant placenta. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200069. [PMID: 33029224 PMCID: PMC7534563 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive efficiency is critically dependent on embryo survival, establishment of a successful pregnancy and placental development. Recent advances in gene editing technology have enabled investigators to use gene knockdown and knockout approaches to better understand the role of hormone signaling in placental function and fetal growth and development. In this review, an overview of ruminant placentation will be provided, including recent data highlighting the role of histone lysine demethylase 1A and androgen signaling in ruminant placenta and pregnancy. Studies in ruminant placenta establish a role for histone lysine demethylase 1A in controlling genetic networks necessary for important cellular events such as cell proliferation and angiogenesis, as well as androgen receptor signaling during early placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Kimberly Hord
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Agata Maria Parsons Aubone
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Asghar Ali
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Hayley Nicole Templeton
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - River Evans
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jason Edward Bruemmer
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Quinton Alexander Winger
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Gerrit Jerry Bouma
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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23
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Ticiani E, Rodrigues VHV, Willhelm BR, Ribeiro E, Gerger RPDC, Ambrosio C, Ferrell C, Sainz RD, Miglino MA, Rodrigues JL, Bertolini M. Evidence of metabolic compartmentation in the bovine placenta and significance for the regulation of placental function and fetal growth in pregnancies bearing in vivo- or in vitro-produced embryos. Livest Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2020.104024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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24
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Kelley AS, Puttabyatappa M, Ciarelli JN, Zeng L, Smith YR, Lieberman R, Pennathur S, Padmanabhan V. Prenatal Testosterone Excess Disrupts Placental Function in a Sheep Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2663-2672. [PMID: 31436841 PMCID: PMC6804485 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition of reproductive-aged women. In a well-validated sheep model of PCOS, testosterone (T) treatment of pregnant ewes culminated in placental insufficiency and intrauterine growth restriction of offspring. The purpose of this study was to explore specific mechanisms by which T excess compromises placental function in early, mid, and late gestation. Pregnant Suffolk sheep received T propionate 100 mg intramuscularly or control vehicle twice weekly from gestational days (GD) 30 to 90 (term = 147 days). Placental harvest occurred at GD 65, 90, and 140. Real-time RT-PCR was used to assess transcript levels of proinflammatory (TNF, IL1B, IL6, IL8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1/chemokine ligand 2, cluster of differentiation 68), antioxidant (glutathione reductase and superoxide dismutase 1 and 2), and angiogenic [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1A)] genes. Lipid accumulation was assessed using triglyceride assays and Oil Red O staining. Placental measures of oxidative and nitrative stress included the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay and high-pressure liquid chromatography. Tissue fibrosis was assessed with Picrosirius Red staining. Student t tests and Cohen effect-size analyses were used for statistical analysis. At GD 65, T-treated placentomes showed increased lipid accumulation and collagen deposition. Notable findings at GD 90 were a significant increase in HIF1A expression and a large effect increase in VEGF expression. At GD 140, T-treated placentomes displayed large effect increases in expression of hypoxia and inflammatory markers. In summary, T treatment during early pregnancy induces distinct gestational age-specific effects on the placental milieu, which may underlie the previously observed phenotype of placental insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela S Kelley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Joseph N Ciarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Lixia Zeng
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Yolanda R Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Richard Lieberman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence: Vasantha Padmanabhan, PhD, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, 7510 MSRB 1, 1500 West Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. E-mail:
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Kelley AS, Smith YR, Padmanabhan V. A Narrative Review of Placental Contribution to Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:5299-5315. [PMID: 31393571 PMCID: PMC6767873 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-00383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy of reproductive-aged women. In pregnancy, women with PCOS experience increased risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and extremes of fetal birth weight, and their offspring are predisposed to reproductive and cardiometabolic dysfunction in adulthood. Pregnancy complications, adverse fetal outcomes, and developmental programming of long-term health risks are known to have placental origins. These findings highlight the plausibility of placental compromise in pregnancies of women with PCOS. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS A comprehensive PubMed search was performed using terms "polycystic ovary syndrome," "placenta," "developmental programming," "hyperandrogenism," "androgen excess," "insulin resistance," "hyperinsulinemia," "pregnancy," and "pregnancy complications" in both human and animal experimental models. CONCLUSIONS There is limited human placental research specific to pregnancy of women with PCOS. Gestational androgen excess and insulin resistance are two clinical hallmarks of PCOS that may contribute to placental dysfunction and underlie the higher rates of maternal-fetal complications observed in pregnancies of women with PCOS. Additional research is needed to prevent adverse maternal and developmental outcomes in women with PCOS and their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela S Kelley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Yolanda R Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Vasantha Padmanabhan, PhD, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, 7510 MSRB 1, 1500 West Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. E-mail:
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26
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Review: Understanding the role of androgens and placental AR variants: Insight into steroid-dependent fetal-placental growth and development. Placenta 2019; 84:63-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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27
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Jonker SS, Louey S, Roselli CE. Cardiac myocyte proliferation and maturation near term is inhibited by early gestation maternal testosterone exposure. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2018; 315:H1393-H1401. [PMID: 30095996 PMCID: PMC6297822 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00314.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex and common disorder in women, and those affected experience an increased burden of cardiovascular disease. It is an intergenerational syndrome, as affected women with high androgen levels during pregnancy "program" fetal development, leading to a similar phenotype in their female offspring. The effect of excess maternal testosterone exposure on fetal cardiomyocyte growth and maturation is unknown. Pregnant ewes received biweekly injections of vehicle (control) or 100 mg testosterone propionate between 30 and 59 days of gestation (early T) or between 60 and 90 days of gestation (late T). Fetuses were delivered at ~135 days of gestation, and their hearts were enzymatically dissociated to measure cardiomyocyte growth (dimensional measurements), maturation (proportion binucleate), and proliferation (nuclear Ki-67 protein). Early T depressed serum insulin-like growth factor 1 and caused intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR; P < 0.0005). Hearts were smaller with early T ( P < 0.001) due to reduced cardiac myocyte maturation ( P < 0.0005) and proliferation ( P = 0.017). Maturation was also lower in male than female fetuses ( P = 0.004) independent of treatment. Late T did not affect cardiac growth. Early excess maternal testosterone exposure depresses circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 near term and causes IUGR in both female and male offspring. These fetuses have small, immature hearts with reduced proliferation, which may reduce cardiac myocyte endowment and predispose to adverse cardiac growth in postnatal life. While excess maternal testosterone exposure leads to polycystic ovary syndrome and cardiovascular disease in female offspring, it may also predispose to complications of IUGR and cardiovascular disease in male offspring. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using measurements of cardiac myocyte growth and maturation in an ovine model of polycystic ovary syndrome, this study demonstrates that early gestation excess maternal testosterone exposure reduces near-term cardiomyocyte proliferation and maturation in intrauterine growth-restricted female and male fetuses. The effect of testosterone is restricted to exposure during a specific period early in pregnancy, and the effects appear mediated through reduced insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling. Furthermore, male fetuses, regardless of treatment, had fewer mature cardiomyocytes than female fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonnet S Jonker
- Center for Developmental Health, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon
| | - Samantha Louey
- Center for Developmental Health, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon
| | - Charles E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon
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28
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Kumar S, Gordon GH, Abbott DH, Mishra JS. Androgens in maternal vascular and placental function: implications for preeclampsia pathogenesis. Reproduction 2018; 156:R155-R167. [PMID: 30325182 PMCID: PMC6198264 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adequate maternal vascular adaptations and blood supply to the uterus and placenta are crucial for optimal oxygen and nutrient transport to growing fetuses of eutherian mammals, including humans. Multiple factors contribute to hemodynamics and structuring of placental vasculature essential for term pregnancy with minimal complications. In women, failure to achieve or sustain favorable pregnancy progression is, not surprisingly, associated with high incidence of antenatal complications, including preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. While the pathogenesis of preeclampsia in women remains unknown, a role for androgens is emerging. The relationship between androgens and maternal cardiovascular and placental function deserves particular consideration because testosterone levels in the circulation of preeclamptic women are elevated approximately two- to three-fold and are positively correlated with vascular dysfunction. Preeclampsia is also associated with elevated placental androgen receptor (AR) gene expression. Studies in animal models mimicking the pattern and level of increase of adult female testosterone levels to those found in preeclamptic pregnancies, replicate key features of preeclampsia, including gestational hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, exaggerated vasoconstriction to angiotensin II, reduced spiral artery remodeling, placental hypoxia, decreased nutrient transport and fetal growth restriction. Taken together, these data strongly implicate AR-mediated testosterone action as an important pathway contributing to clinical manifestation of preeclampsia. This review critically addresses this hypothesis, taking into consideration both clinical and preclinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Geoffrey H Gordon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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29
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Abstract
Prenatal exposure to excess steroids or steroid mimics can disrupt the normal developmental trajectory of organ systems, culminating in adult disease. The metabolic system is particularly susceptible to the deleterious effects of prenatal steroid excess. Studies in sheep demonstrate that prenatal exposure to excess native steroids or endocrine-disrupting chemicals with steroidogenic activity, such as bisphenol A, results in postnatal development of numerous cardiometabolic perturbations, including insulin resistance, increased adiposity, altered adipocyte size and distribution, and hypertension. The similarities in the phenotypic outcomes programmed by these different prenatal insults suggest that common mechanisms may be involved, and these may include hormonal imbalances (e.g., hyperandrogenism and hyperinsulinemia), oxidative stress, inflammation, lipotoxicity, and epigenetic alterations. Animal models, including the sheep, provide mechanistic insight into the metabolic repercussions associated with prenatal steroid exposure and represent valuable research tools in understanding human health and disease. Focusing on the sheep model, this review summarizes the cardiometabolic perturbations programmed by prenatal exposure to different native steroids and steroid mimics and discusses the potential mechanisms underlying the development of adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo C Cardoso
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA;
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30
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Tamadon A, Hu W, Cui P, Ma T, Tong X, Zhang F, Li X, Shao LR, Feng Y. How to choose the suitable animal model of polycystic ovary syndrome? TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND MODERN MEDICINE 2018. [DOI: 10.1142/s2575900018300047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a gynecological metabolic and endocrine disorder with uncertain etiology. To understand the etiology of PCOS or the evaluation of various therapeutic agents, different animal models have been introduced. Considering this fact that is difficult to develop an animal model that mimics all aspects of this syndrome, but, similarity of biological, anatomical, and/or biochemical features of animal model to the human PCOS phenotypes can increase its application. This review paper evaluates the recently researched animal models and introduced the best models for different research purposes in PCOS studies. During January 2013 to January 2017, 162 studies were identified which applied various kinds of animal models of PCOS including rodent, primate, ruminant and fish. Between these models, prenatal and pre-pubertal androgen rat models and then prenatal androgen mouse model have been studied in detail than others. The comparison of main features of these models with women PCOS demonstrates higher similarity of these three models to human conditions. Thereafter, letrozole models can be recommended for the investigation of various aspects of PCOS. Interestingly, similarity of PCOS features of post-pubertal insulin and human chorionic gonadotropin rat models with women PCOS were considerable which can make it as a good choice for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Tamadon
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Tong Ma
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Tong
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Feifei Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
| | - Xin Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
| | - Linus R. Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 40530, Sweden
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
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31
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Gestational bisphenol S impairs placental endocrine function and the fusogenic trophoblast signaling pathway. Arch Toxicol 2018; 92:1861-1876. [PMID: 29550860 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-018-2191-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to bisphenolic chemicals during pregnancy occurs in > 90% of pregnancies. Bisphenolic compounds can cross the placental barrier reaching fetal circulation. However, the effects of emerging bisphenolic compounds, such as bisphenol S (BPS), on placental function remain untested. The aim was to determine if bisphenol A (BPA) or BPS, at an environmentally relevant dose, impairs placental function. Pregnant sheep were randomly distributed into three treatment groups (n = 7-8/group): control, BPA, and BPS. All animals received daily injections of corn oil (control), BPA, or BPS (0.5 mg/kg; s.c.; internal fetal doses were ~ 2.6 ng/mL unconjugated BPA and ~ 7.7 ng/mL of BPS) from gestational day 30-100. After a 20-day washout period, placentas were weighed and placentomes collected. Placental endocrine function was assessed on biweekly maternal blood samples. Gestational exposure to BPS, but not BPA, reduced maternal circulating pregnancy-associated glycoproteins without change in placental weight or placental stereology. BPS-exposed placentas had 50% lower e-cadherin protein expression, ~ 20% fewer binucleate cells, and ~ threefold higher glial cell missing-1 protein expression. BPA placentas were not affected highlighting the intrinsic differences among bisphenolic chemicals. This is the first study to demonstrate that gestational BPS can result in placental endocrine dysfunction and points to a dysregulation in the fusogenic trophoblast signaling pathway.
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Hjorth-Hansen A, Salvesen Ø, Engen Hanem LG, Eggebø T, Salvesen KÅ, Vanky E, Ødegård R. Fetal Growth and Birth Anthropometrics in Metformin-Exposed Offspring Born to Mothers With PCOS. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:740-747. [PMID: 29165598 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-01191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Metformin is used in an attempt to reduce pregnancy complications associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Little is known about the effect of metformin on fetal development and growth. OBJECTIVES To compare the effect of metformin versus placebo on fetal growth and birth anthropometrics in PCOS offspring compared with a reference population in relation to maternal body mass index (BMI). DESIGN Post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial. SETTING Double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study. PATIENTS 258 offspring born to mothers with PCOS. INTERVENTION 2000 mg metformin (n = 131) or placebo (n = 121) from first trimester to delivery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Mean abdominal diameter and biparietal diameter (BPD) at gestational weeks 19 and 32. Head circumference (HC), birth length, and weight related to a reference population of healthy offspring, expressed as gestational age- and sex-adjusted z-scores. RESULTS Metformin- versus placebo-exposed offspring had larger heads at gestational week 32 (BPD, 86.1 mm versus 85.2 mm; P = 0.03) and at birth (HC, 35.6 cm versus 35.1 cm; P < 0.01). Analyses stratified by maternal prepregnancy BMI, larger heads were observed only among offspring of overweight/obese mothers. Among normal-weight mothers, the effect of metformin compared with placebo was reduced length (z-score = -0.96 versus -0.42, P = 0.04) and weight (z-score = -0.44 versus 0.02; P = 0.03). Compared with the reference population, offspring born to PCOS mothers (placebo group) had reduced length (z-score = -0.40; 95% confidence interval, -0.60 to -0.40), but similar birth weight and HC. CONCLUSIONS Metformin exposure resulted in larger head size in offspring of overweight mothers, traceable already in utero. Maternal prepregnancy BMI modified the effect of metformin on offspring anthropometrics. Anthropometrics of offspring born to PCOS mothers differed from those of the reference population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Øyvind Salvesen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Liv Guro Engen Hanem
- Institute of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Torbjørn Eggebø
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olav's University Hospital of Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kjell Å Salvesen
- Institute of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olav's University Hospital of Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eszter Vanky
- Institute of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olav's University Hospital of Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rønnaug Ødegård
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Centre of Obesity Research, St. Olav's University Hospital of Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
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33
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Zhang S, Barker P, Botting KJ, Roberts CT, McMillan CM, McMillen IC, Morrison JL. Early restriction of placental growth results in placental structural and gene expression changes in late gestation independent of fetal hypoxemia. Physiol Rep 2018; 4:4/23/e13049. [PMID: 27923976 PMCID: PMC5357827 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental restriction and insufficiency are associated with altered patterns of placental growth, morphology, substrate transport capacity, growth factor expression, and glucocorticoid exposure. We have used a pregnant sheep model in which the intrauterine environment has been perturbed by uterine carunclectomy (Cx). This procedure results in early restriction of placental growth and either the development of chronic fetal hypoxemia (PaO2≤17 mmHg) in late gestation or in compensatory placental growth and the maintenance of fetal normoxemia (PaO2>17 mmHg). Based on fetal PaO2, Cx, and Control ewes were assigned to either a normoxemic fetal group (Nx) or a hypoxemic fetal group (Hx) in late gestation, resulting in 4 groups. Cx resulted in a decrease in the volumes of fetal and maternal connective tissues in the placenta and increased placental mRNA expression of IGF2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGFR‐2,ANGPT2, and TIE2. There were reduced volumes of trophoblast, maternal epithelium, and maternal connective tissues in the placenta and a decrease in placental GLUT1 and 11βHSD2 mRNA expression in the Hx compared to Nx groups. Our data show that early restriction of placental growth has effects on morphological and functional characteristics of the placenta in late gestation, independent of whether the fetus becomes hypoxemic. Similarly, there is a distinct set of placental changes that are only present in fetuses that were hypoxemic in late gestation, independent of whether Cx occurred. Thus, we provide further understanding of the different placental cellular and molecular mechanisms that are present in early placental restriction and in the emergence of later placental insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Zhang
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paige Barker
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kimberley J Botting
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Claire T Roberts
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Christine M McMillan
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Isabella Caroline McMillen
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Wang Z, Shen M, Xue P, DiVall SA, Segars J, Wu S. Female Offspring From Chronic Hyperandrogenemic Dams Exhibit Delayed Puberty and Impaired Ovarian Reserve. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1242-1252. [PMID: 29315373 PMCID: PMC5793796 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-03078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Female offspring of many species exposed to high doses of androgens in utero experience endocrine dysfunction during adulthood. The phenotype of offspring from females with prepregnancy hyperandrogenemia and impaired ovulation, however, has not been examined. We developed a mouse model of hyperandrogenemia by implanting a low-dose dihydrotestosterone (DHT) pellet 15 days before conception. Female offspring born to dams with hyperandrogenemia (DHT daughters) had delayed puberty (P < 0.05) with first estrus on postnatal day (PND) 41 compared with daughters from dams with physiological levels of DHT (non-DHT daughters, PND37.5). Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in the DHT daughters were fourfold higher (P < 0.05) on PND21, and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were higher (P < 0.05) on PND26 than in non-DHT daughters (controls). DHT daughters showed an extended time in metestrus/diestrus and a shorter time in the proestrus/estrus phase compared with non-DHT daughters (P < 0.05). To examine ovarian response to gonadotropins, superovulation was induced and in vitro fertilization (IVF) was performed. Fewer numbers of oocytes were retrieved from the DHT daughters compared with non-DHT daughters (P < 0.05). At IVF, there was no difference in rates of fertilization or cleavage of oocytes from either group. There were fewer (P < 0.01) primordial follicles (6.5 ± 0.8 vs 14.5 ± 2.1 per ovary) in the ovaries of DHT daughters compared with non-DHT daughters. Daughters from hyperandrogenemic females exhibited elevated prepubertal FSH levels, diminished ovarian response to superovulation, impaired estrous cyclicity, delayed onset of puberty, and reduced ovarian reserve, suggesting that fetal androgen exposure had lasting effects on female reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
| | - Mingjie Shen
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
- Department of Gynecology/Obstetrics, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 21203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ping Xue
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
| | - Sara A. DiVall
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington 98105
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
| | - Sheng Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
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Hakim C, Padmanabhan V, Vyas AK. Gestational Hyperandrogenism in Developmental Programming. Endocrinology 2017; 158:199-212. [PMID: 27967205 PMCID: PMC5413081 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Androgen excess (hyperandrogenism) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The potential causes of androgen excess in women include polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), adrenal tumors, and racial disparity among many others. During pregnancy, luteoma, placental aromatase deficiency, and fetal CAH are additional causes of gestational hyperandrogenism. The present report reviews the various phenotypes of hyperandrogenism during pregnancy and its origin, pathophysiology, and the effect of hyperandrogenism on the fetal developmental trajectory and offspring consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Hakim
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109; and
| | - Arpita K. Vyas
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Permian Basin Campus, Odessa, Texas 79763
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Puttabyatappa M, Cardoso RC, Padmanabhan V. Effect of maternal PCOS and PCOS-like phenotype on the offspring's health. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 435:29-39. [PMID: 26639019 PMCID: PMC4884168 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder with both reproductive and metabolic abnormalities affecting women of reproductive age. While the exact origin of PCOS is unknown, observations from clinical and animal studies suggest that maternal hyperandrogenism may be a contributing factor. Because women with PCOS manifest hyperandrogenism during pregnancy, changes in the gestational endocrine milieu may play a role in the vertical transmission of this syndrome. This review discusses the potential developmental origins of PCOS, the impact of maternal PCOS on the offspring's health and contributions of the postnatal environment, capitalizing on findings from animal models that exhibit a PCOS-like phenotype. In addition, this review highlights the scarcity of data at early gestational stages in humans and the importance of animal experimentation to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the programming of adult diseases, therefore, helping identify therapeutic targets for preventive and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rodolfo C Cardoso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Prenatal programming: adverse cardiac programming by gestational testosterone excess. Sci Rep 2016; 6:28335. [PMID: 27328820 PMCID: PMC4916456 DOI: 10.1038/srep28335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Adverse events during the prenatal and early postnatal period of life are associated with development of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Prenatal exposure to excess testosterone (T) in sheep induces adverse reproductive and metabolic programming leading to polycystic ovarian syndrome, insulin resistance and hypertension in the female offspring. We hypothesized that prenatal T excess disrupts insulin signaling in the cardiac left ventricle leading to adverse cardiac programming. Left ventricular tissues were obtained from 2-year-old female sheep treated prenatally with T or oil (control) from days 30-90 of gestation. Molecular markers of insulin signaling and cardiac hypertrophy were analyzed. Prenatal T excess increased the gene expression of molecular markers involved in insulin signaling and those associated with cardiac hypertrophy and stress including insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1), phosphatidyl inositol-3 kinase (PI3K), Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), nuclear factor of activated T cells -c3 (NFATc3), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) compared to controls. Furthermore, prenatal T excess increased the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and mTOR. Myocardial disarray (multifocal) and increase in cardiomyocyte diameter was evident on histological investigation in T-treated females. These findings support adverse left ventricular remodeling by prenatal T excess.
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Padmanabhan V, Cardoso RC, Puttabyatappa M. Developmental Programming, a Pathway to Disease. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1328-40. [PMID: 26859334 PMCID: PMC4816734 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that insults occurring during the perinatal period alter the developmental trajectory of the fetus/offspring leading to long-term detrimental outcomes that often culminate in adult pathologies. These perinatal insults include maternal/fetal disease states, nutritional deficits/excess, stress, lifestyle choices, exposure to environmental chemicals, and medical interventions. In addition to reviewing the various insults that contribute to developmental programming and the benefits of animal models in addressing underlying mechanisms, this review focuses on the commonalities in disease outcomes stemming from various insults, the convergence of mechanistic pathways via which various insults can lead to common outcomes, and identifies the knowledge gaps in the field and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5718
| | - Rodolfo C Cardoso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5718
| | - Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5718
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Gopalakrishnan K, Mishra JS, Chinnathambi V, Vincent KL, Patrikeev I, Motamedi M, Saade GR, Hankins GD, Sathishkumar K. Elevated Testosterone Reduces Uterine Blood Flow, Spiral Artery Elongation, and Placental Oxygenation in Pregnant Rats. Hypertension 2016; 67:630-9. [PMID: 26781277 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.115.06946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Elevated maternal testosterone levels are shown to cause fetal growth restriction, eventually culminating in sex-specific adult-onset hypertension that is more pronounced in males than in females. In this study, we tested whether uteroplacental and fetoplacental disturbances underlie fetal growth restriction and if these changes vary in male and female placentas. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with vehicle (n=16) or testosterone propionate (0.5 mg/kg per day from gestation day 15-19; n=16). On gestation day 20, we quantified uterine artery blood flow using microultrasound, visualized placental arterial network using x-ray microcomputed tomography, determined fetoplacental hypoxia using pimonidazole and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, and used Affymetrix array to determine changes in placental expression of genes involved in vascular development. Plasma testosterone levels increased 2-fold in testosterone-injected rats. Placental and fetal weights were lower in rats with elevated testosterone. Uterine artery blood flow was lower, and resistance index was higher in the testosterone group. Radial and spiral artery diameter and length, the number of fetoplacental arterial branches, and umbilical artery diameter were reduced in the testosterone group. In addition, markers of hypoxia in the placentas and fetuses were elevated in the testosterone group. The magnitude of changes in placental vasculature and hypoxia was greater in males than in females and was associated with sex-specific alteration of unique sets of genes involved in angiogenesis and blood vessel morphogenesis. The results demonstrate that elevated testosterone during gestation induces a decrease in uterine arterial blood flow and fetal sex-related uteroplacental vascular changes, which may set the stage for subsequent sex differences in adult-onset diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathirvel Gopalakrishnan
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Jay S Mishra
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Vijayakumar Chinnathambi
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Kathleen L Vincent
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Igor Patrikeev
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - George R Saade
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Gary D Hankins
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
| | - Kunju Sathishkumar
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.G., J.S.M., V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.) and Center for Biomedical Engineering (K.L.V., I.P., M.M.), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston.
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More AS, Mishra JS, Gopalakrishnan K, Blesson CS, Hankins GD, Sathishkumar K. Prenatal Testosterone Exposure Leads to Gonadal Hormone-Dependent Hyperinsulinemia and Gonadal Hormone-Independent Glucose Intolerance in Adult Male Rat Offspring. Biol Reprod 2015; 94:5. [PMID: 26586841 PMCID: PMC4809560 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated testosterone levels during prenatal life lead to hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance in adult females. This study evaluated whether prenatal testosterone exposure leads to the development of insulin resistance in adult male rats in order to assess the influence of gonadal hormones on glucose homeostasis in these animals. Male offspring of pregnant rats treated with testosterone propionate or its vehicle (control) were examined. A subset of male offspring was orchiectomized at 7 wk of age and reared to adulthood. At 24 wk of age, fat weights, plasma testosterone, glucose homeostasis, pancreas morphology, and gastrocnemius insulin receptor (IR) beta levels were examined. The pups born to testosterone-treated mothers were smaller at birth and remained smaller through adult life, with levels of fat deposition relatively similar to those in controls. Testosterone exposure during prenatal life induced hyperinsulinemia paralleled by an increased HOMA-IR index in a fasting state and glucose intolerance and exaggerated insulin responses following a glucose tolerance test. Prenatal androgen-exposed males had more circulating testosterone during adult life. Gonadectomy prevented hyperandrogenism, reversed hyperinsulinemia, and attenuated glucose-induced insulin responses but did not alter glucose intolerance in these rats. Prenatal androgen-exposed males had decreased pancreatic islet numbers, size, and beta-cell area along with decreased expression of IR in gastrocnemius muscles. Gonadectomy restored pancreatic islet numbers, size, and beta-cell area but did not normalize IRbeta expression. This study shows that prenatal testosterone exposure leads to a defective pancreas and skeletal muscle function in male offspring. Hyperinsulinemia during adult life is gonad-dependent, but glucose intolerance appears to be independent of postnatal testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar S More
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Kathirvel Gopalakrishnan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Chellakkan S Blesson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Gary D Hankins
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Kunju Sathishkumar
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Ortega HH, Veiga-Lopez A, Sreedharan S, del Luján Velázquez MM, Salvetti NR, Padmanabhan V. Developmental Programming: Does Prenatal Steroid Excess Disrupt the Ovarian VEGF System in Sheep? Biol Reprod 2015; 93:58. [PMID: 26178718 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.131607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal testosterone (T), but not dihydrotestosterone (DHT), excess disrupts ovarian cyclicity and increases follicular recruitment and persistence. We hypothesized that the disruption in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system contributes to the enhancement of follicular recruitment and persistence in prenatal T-treated sheep. The impact of T/DHT treatments from Days 30 to 90 of gestation on VEGFA, VEGFB, and their receptor (VEGFR-1 [FLT1], VEGFR-2 [KDR], and VEGFR-3 [FLT4]) protein expression was examined by immunohistochemistry on Fetal Days 90 and 140, 22 wk, 10 mo (postpubertal), and 21 mo (adult) of age. Arterial morphometry was performed in Fetal Day 140 and postpubertal ovaries. VEGFA and VEGFB expression were found in granulosa cells at all stages of follicular development with increased expression in antral follicles. VEGFA was present in theca interna, while VEGFB was present in theca interna/externa and stromal cells. All three receptors were expressed in the granulosa, theca, and stromal cells during all stages of follicular development. VEGFR-3 increased with follicular differentiation with the highest level seen in the granulosa cells of antral follicles. None of the members of the VEGF family or their receptor expression were altered by age or prenatal T/DHT treatments. At Fetal Day 140, area, wall thickness, and wall area of arteries from the ovarian hilum were larger in prenatal T- and DHT-treated females, suggestive of early androgenic programming of arterial differentiation. This may facilitate increased delivery of endocrine factors and thus indirectly contribute to the development of the multifollicular phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Héctor Ortega
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of Litoral, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina Argentine National Research Council (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shilpa Sreedharan
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Melisa María del Luján Velázquez
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of Litoral, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina Argentine National Research Council (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Natalia Raquel Salvetti
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of Litoral, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina Argentine National Research Council (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Abi Salloum B, Veiga-Lopez A, Abbott DH, Burant CF, Padmanabhan V. Developmental programming: exposure to testosterone excess disrupts steroidal and metabolic environment in pregnant sheep. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2323-37. [PMID: 25763641 PMCID: PMC4430607 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Gestational exposure to excess T leads to intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and adult metabolic/reproductive disorders in female sheep. We hypothesized that as early mediators of such disruptions, gestational T disrupts steroidal and metabolic homeostasis in both the mother and fetus by both androgenic and metabolic pathways. Maternal blood samples were measured weekly for levels of insulin, glucose, and progesterone from four groups of animals: control; gestational T (twice weekly im injections of 100 mg of T propionate from d 30 to d 90 of gestation); T plus an androgen antagonist, flutamide (15 mg/kg·d oral; T-Flutamide); and T plus the insulin sensitizer, rosiglitazone (0.11 mg/kg·d oral; T-Rosi) (n = 10-12/group). On day 90 of gestation, maternal and umbilical cord samples were collected after a 48-hour fast from a subset (n = 6/group) for the measurement of steroids, free fatty acids, amino acids, and acylcarnitines. Gestational T decreased maternal progesterone levels by 36.5% (P < .05), which was prevented by flutamide showing direct androgenic mediation. Gestational T also augmented maternal insulin levels and decreased medium chained acylcarnitines, suggesting increased mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. These changes were prevented by rosiglitazone, suggesting alterations in maternal fuel use. Gestational T-induced increases in fetal estradiol were not prevented by either cotreatment. Gestational T disrupted associations of steroids with metabolites and progesterone with acylcarnitines, which was prevented either by androgen antagonist or insulin sensitizer cotreatment. These findings suggest a future combination of these treatments might be required to prevent alteration in maternal/fetal steroidal and metabolic milieu(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- B Abi Salloum
- Departments of Pediatrics (B.A.S., A.V.-L., V.P.) and Internal Medicine (C.F.B.) and Reproductive Sciences Program (V.P.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (D.H.A.), University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
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de Melo AS, Dias SV, Cavalli RDC, Cardoso VC, Bettiol H, Barbieri MA, Ferriani RA, Vieira CS. Pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome: multifactorial assessment from the foetal stage to menopause. Reproduction 2015; 150:R11-24. [PMID: 25835506 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial disorder that arises from interactions between genetic, environmental and intra-uterine factors. Small-for-gestational-age (SGA) babies and the daughters of mothers with PCOS represent possible postnatal clinical targets for developmental programming by steroid excess. The presence of excess glucocorticoids and/or androgens during foetal organogenesis and growth might promote changes in gene expression, and these changes might be related to an increase in the risk of PCOS-like reproductive and metabolic disorders in postnatal life, such as rapid growth and weight gain during the first 2 years of life (only in SGA babies), hyperinsulinaemia, adipocyte dysfunction and childhood visceral obesity, premature pubarche and adrenarche (only in SGA babies) and PCOS. In the fourth decade of life, women who have PCOS may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia and systemic arterial hypertension, which suggests that these women are also at higher risk for cardiovascular disease during menopause. However, PCOS can also occur in women who were born at appropriate weight for GA or in newborns of women without PCOS, which suggests that genetic variation and environmental factors play important roles in the development and maintenance of PCOS in a population. Genome-wide association studies based on adequate population samples have shown a higher frequency of genetic polymorphisms of the LHCGR, THADA and DENND1A genes in women with PCOS. Genetic studies of PCOS have also included analyses of structural changes in the chromosome based on an assessment of telomere length in single, cross-sectional evaluations, and these studies have produced controversial results. The present narrative review assesses the multifactorial origins of PCOS (including environmental, genetic and intra-uterine factors) and the development of conditions associated with this disorder. It is concluded that although PCOS might originate in the intra-uterine environment through developmental programming by steroid excess, the interaction between genetic and environmental factors is crucial for its appearance. Follow-up studies should be conducted to assess the same populations over their entire lifespans while taking into account different aspects of the pathogenesis of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson Sanches de Melo
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrine Vilan Dias
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Carvalho Cavalli
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Viviane Cunha Cardoso
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heloisa Bettiol
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Antonio Barbieri
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Sales Vieira
- Unit of Human Reproduction and Gynecological EndocrinologyDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsDepartment of PaediatricsMedical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900 - Campus Universitário - Monte Alegre, CEP: 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Cardoso RC, Puttabyatappa M, Padmanabhan V. Steroidogenic versus Metabolic Programming of Reproductive Neuroendocrine, Ovarian and Metabolic Dysfunctions. Neuroendocrinology 2015; 102:226-37. [PMID: 25832114 PMCID: PMC4591099 DOI: 10.1159/000381830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The susceptibility of the reproductive system to early exposure to steroid hormones has become a major concern in our modern societies. Human fetuses are at risk of abnormal programming via exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals, inadvertent use of contraceptive pills during pregnancy, as well as from excess exposure to steroids due to disease states. Animal models provide an unparalleled resource to understand the developmental origin of diseases. In female sheep, prenatal exposure to testosterone excess results in an array of adult reproductive disorders that recapitulate those seen in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including disrupted neuroendocrine feedback mechanisms, increased pituitary sensitivity to gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone excess, functional hyperandrogenism, and multifollicular ovarian morphology culminating in early reproductive failure. Prenatal testosterone treatment also leads to fetal growth retardation, insulin resistance, and hypertension. Mounting evidence suggests that developmental exposure to an improper steroidal/metabolic environment may mediate the programming of adult disorders in prenatal testosterone-treated females, and these defects are maintained or amplified by the postnatal sex steroid and metabolic milieu. This review addresses the steroidal and metabolic contributions to the development and maintenance of the PCOS phenotype in the prenatal testosterone-treated sheep model, including the effects of prenatal and postnatal treatment with an androgen antagonist or insulin sensitizer as potential strategies to prevent/ameliorate these dysfunctions. Insights obtained from these intervention strategies on the mechanisms underlying these defects are likely to have translational relevance to human PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo C Cardoso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., USA
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