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YE J, LI X, PAN Z, WU Z, ZHU Y, ZHANG W, LU J, XU S, QIN P, LIU Y, LI Y, LING Y, FANG F. Grid1 regulates the onset of puberty in female rats. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:497-506. [PMID: 38479882 PMCID: PMC11144544 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the effect of Grid1, encoding the glutamate ionotropic receptor delta type subunit 1 (GluD1), on puberty onset in female rats. Grid1 mRNA and protein expression was detected in the hypothalamus of female rats at prepuberty and puberty. The levels of Grid1 mRNA in the hypothalamus, the fluorescence intensity in the arcuate nucleus and paraventricular nucleus of the prepubertal rats was significantly lower than pubertal. Additionally, the expression of Grid1 was suppressed in primary hypothalamus cells and prepubertal rat. Finally, investigated the effect of Grid1 knockdown on puberty onset and reproductive performance. Treatment of hypothalamic neurons with LV-Grid1 decreased the level of Grid1 and Rfrp-3 (encoding RFamide-related peptide 3) mRNA expression, but increased the Gnrh (encoding gonadotropin-releasing hormone) mRNA levels. After an ICV injection, the time for the rat vaginal opening occurred earlier. Moreover, Gnrh mRNA expression was increased, whereas Rfrp-3 mRNA expression was decreased in the hypothalamus. The concentration of progesterone (P4) in the serum was significantly decreased compare with control group. Ovary hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed that the LV-Grid1 group mainly contained primary and secondary follicles. The reproductive performance of the rats was not affected by the Grid1 knockdown. Therefore, Grid1 may affect the onset of puberty in female rats by regulating the levels of Gnrh, and Rfrp-3 in the hypothalamus, as well as the concentrations of P4, but not reproduction performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing YE
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoqian LI
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Zhihao PAN
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Zhuoya WU
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Yanyun ZHU
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Wei ZHANG
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Juntai LU
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Shuangshuang XU
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Ping QIN
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Ya LIU
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Yunsheng LI
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
| | - Yinghui LING
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui, China
| | - Fugui FANG
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui,
China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Anhui, China
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Cox JF, Carrasco A, Navarrete F, Bocic A, Saravia F, Dorado J. A Subovulatory Dose of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) May Sustain Terminal Follicle Development and Reproductive Efficiency during Anestrus in Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1096. [PMID: 38612335 PMCID: PMC11011159 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The study tested the hypothesis that a single administration of hCG supports the LH-dependent phase of terminal follicular development in synchronized sheep during anestrus, using eCG as a functional reference. Using a clinical approach, four experiments were designed to achieve the following: (1) Identify the inhibitory influence of anestrus on reproduction efficiency; (2) Assess the potential of hCG to keep functional blood concentrations after a single dose; (3) Characterize the effect of different doses of hCG on reproductive functional markers; (4) To compare the ability of hCG to that of eCG to support follicular development and fertility based on the same markers. The results showed that anestrus seems to affect follicular and luteal function under LH dependency as FSH-dependent markers are not compromised; hCG maintains higher blood concentrations than controls for at least 48 h; hCG improves follicular development and ovulatory rates compared to controls and at standards comparable to a breeding season; and ewes treated with hCG exhibit similar performance to those treated with eCG. Our results conclude that hCG can be used to support follicular function during anestrus in sheep, aiming to perfect its regulation in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco Cox
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Vicente Méndez 595, Chillán 3780000, Chile (A.B.); (F.S.)
| | - Albert Carrasco
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Vicente Méndez 595, Chillán 3780000, Chile (A.B.); (F.S.)
| | - Felipe Navarrete
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Vicente Méndez 595, Chillán 3780000, Chile (A.B.); (F.S.)
| | - Antonio Bocic
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Vicente Méndez 595, Chillán 3780000, Chile (A.B.); (F.S.)
| | - Fernando Saravia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Vicente Méndez 595, Chillán 3780000, Chile (A.B.); (F.S.)
| | - Jesús Dorado
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Campus Rabanales, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
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Agus S, Yavuz Y, Atasoy D, Yilmaz B. Postweaning Social Isolation Alters Puberty Onset by Suppressing Electrical Activity of Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons. Neuroendocrinology 2024; 114:439-452. [PMID: 38271999 PMCID: PMC11098025 DOI: 10.1159/000535721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Postweaning social isolation (PWSI) in rodents is an advanced psychosocial stress model in early life. Some psychosocial stress, such as restrain and isolation, disrupts reproductive physiology in young and adult periods. Mechanisms of early-life stress effects on central regulation of reproduction need to be elucidated. We have investigated the effects of PWSI on function of arcuate kisspeptin (ARCKISS1) neurons by using electrophysiological techniques combining with monitoring of puberty onset and estrous cycle in male and female Kiss1-Cre mice. METHODS Female mice were monitored for puberty onset with vaginal opening examination during social isolation. After isolation, the estrous cycle of female mice was monitored with vaginal cytology. Anxiety-like behavior of mice was determined by an elevated plus maze test. Effects of PWSI on electrophysiology of ARCKISS1 neurons were investigated by the patch clamp method after intracranial injection of AAV-GFP virus into arcuate nucleus of Kiss1-Cre mice after the isolation period. RESULTS We found that both male and female isolated mice showed anxiety-like behavior. PWSI caused delay in vaginal opening and extension in estrous cycle length. Spontaneous-firing rates of ARCKISS1 neurons were significantly lower in the isolated male and female mice. The peak amplitude of inhibitory postsynaptic currents to ARCKISS1 neurons was higher in the isolated mice, while frequency of excitatory postsynaptic currents was higher in group-housed mice. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that PWSI alters pre- and postpubertal reproductive physiology through metabolic and electrophysiological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Agus
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Yavuz
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Atasoy
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Bayram Yilmaz
- Yeditepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
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Nestor CC, Merkley CM, Lehman MN, Hileman SM, Goodman RL. KNDy neurons as the GnRH pulse generator: Recent studies in ruminants. Peptides 2023; 164:171005. [PMID: 36990389 PMCID: PMC10164117 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171005] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
This review considers three aspects of recent work on the role of KNDy neurons in GnRH pulse generation in ruminants. First, work on basic mechanisms of pulse generation includes several tests of this hypothesis, all of which support it, and evidence that Kiss1r-containing neurons form a positive feedback circuit with the KNDy neural network that strengthen the activity of this network. The second section on pathways mediating external inputs focuses on the influence of nutrition and photoperiod, and describes the evidence supporting roles for proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) afferents to KNDy cells in each of these. Finally, we review studies exploring the potential applications of manipulating signaling by kisspeptin, and the other KNDy peptides, to control reproductive function in domestic animals and conclude that, although these approaches show some promise, they do not have major advantages over current practices at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey C Nestor
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Michael N Lehman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Stanley M Hileman
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Robert L Goodman
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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Disruptions in Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Development and Their IgG Modulation after Prenatal Systemic Inflammation in Male Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032726. [PMID: 36769048 PMCID: PMC9916578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of the neuroendocrine system, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, is sensitive to environmental impacts during critical developmental periods. Maternal immune system activation by bacterial or viral infection may be one of the negative impacts. This study focused on the effect of systemic inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS E. coli) on the HPG axis development in male rat offspring, corrected by the anti-inflammatory action of polyclonal IgG and monoclonal anti-interleukin (IL)-6 receptor antibodies (IL-6RmAbs). A single LPS exposure on the 12th embryonic day (ED) led to a decrease in the number of afferent synaptic inputs on gonadotropin-releasing, hormone-producing neurons in adult male offspring. LPS exposure on ED18 did not lead to such disruptions. Moreover, after the LPS injections on ED12, circulating follicle-stimulating hormone and sex steroid levels were reduced, and the gonadal structure was disrupted. A prenatal IL-6R blockade with IL-6RmAbs and polyclonal IgG reduced the negative effects of inflammation on fetal HPG axis development. Overall, the data obtained confirm the morphogenetic effect of inflammation on fetal HPG development and IL-6 involvement in these processes.
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Merchán M, Coveñas R, Plaza I, Abecia JA, Palacios C. Anatomy of hypothalamic and diencephalic nuclei involved in seasonal fertility regulation in ewes. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1101024. [PMID: 36876003 PMCID: PMC9978410 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1101024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we describe in detail the anatomy of nuclei involved in seasonal fertility regulation (SFR) in ewes. For this purpose, the intergeniculate leaflet of the visual thalamus, the caudal hypothalamic arcuate nucleus, and suprachiasmatic, paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the rostral hypothalamus were morphometrically and qualitatively analyzed in Nissl-stained serial sections, in the three anatomical planes. In addition, data were collected on calcium-binding proteins and cell phenotypes after immunostaining alternate serial sections for calretinin, parvalbumin and calbindin. For a complete neuroanatomical study, glial architecture was assessed by immunostaining and analyzing alternate sections for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1). The results showed a strong microglial and astroglia reaction around the hypothalamic nuclei of interest and around the whole 3rd ventricle of the ewe brain. Moreover, we correlated cytoarchitectonic coordinates of panoramic serial sections with their macroscopic localization and extension in midline sagittal-sectioned whole brain to provide guidelines for microdissecting nuclei involved in SFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Merchán
- Animal Production Area, Department of Construction and Agronomy, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute for Neuroscience of Castilla y León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Recognized Research Group - Molecular Bases of Development (Grupo de Investigación Reconocido - Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo - GIR-BMD), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Coveñas
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute for Neuroscience of Castilla y León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Recognized Research Group - Molecular Bases of Development (Grupo de Investigación Reconocido - Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo - GIR-BMD), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ignacio Plaza
- Auditory Neuroplasticity Laboratory, Institute for Neuroscience of Castilla y León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - José Alfonso Abecia
- Environmental Science Institute (IUCA), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carlos Palacios
- Animal Production Area, Department of Construction and Agronomy, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Oviduct Transcriptomic Reveals the Regulation of mRNAs and lncRNAs Related to Goat Prolificacy in the Luteal Phase. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202823. [PMID: 36290212 PMCID: PMC9597788 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The kidding number is an important reproductive trait in domestic goats. The oviduct, as one of the most major organs, is directly involved in the reproductive process, providing nutrition and a location for early embryonic development. The current study provides genome-wide expression profiles of mRNA and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression in Yunshang black goat, a new breed of meat goat bred in China with a high kidding number. During the luteal phases, oviduct mRNAs and lncRNAs associated with high- and low-fecundity Yunshang black goats were identified, and their potential biological functions were predicted using GO, KEGG, and GSEA enrichment analysis. These findings shed light on the oviduct-based prolificacy mechanism in goats. Abstract The oviduct is associated with embryo development and transportation and regulates the pregnancy success of mammals. Previous studies have indicated a molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in gene regulation and reproduction. However, little is known about the function of lncRNAs in the oviduct in modulating goat kidding numbers. Therefore, we combined RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to map the expression profiles of the oviduct at the luteal phase from high- and low-fecundity goats. The results showed that 2023 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) and 377 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) transcripts were screened, and 2109 regulated lncRNA-mRNA pairs were identified. Subsequently, the genes related to reproduction (IGF1, FGFRL1, and CREB1) and those associated with embryonic development and maturation (DHX34, LHX6) were identified. KEGG analysis of the DEGs revealed that the GnRH- and prolactin-signaling pathways, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, and oocyte meiosis were related to reproduction. GSEA and KEGG analyses of the target genes of DELs demonstrated that several biological processes and pathways might interact with oviduct functions and the prolificacy of goats. Furthermore, the co-expression network analysis showed that XLOC_029185, XLOC_040647, and XLOC_090025 were the cis-regulatory elements of the DEGs MUC1, PPP1R9A, and ALDOB, respectively; these factors might be associated with the success of pregnancy and glucolipid metabolism. In addition, the GATA4, LAMA2, SLC39A5, and S100G were trans-regulated by lncRNAs, predominantly mediating oviductal transport to the embryo and energy metabolism. Our findings could pave the way for a better understanding of the roles of mRNAs and lncRNAs in fecundity-related oviduct function in goats.
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Yao Z, Lin M, Lin T, Gong X, Qin P, Li H, Kang T, Ye J, Zhu Y, Hong Q, Liu Y, Li Y, Wang J, Fang F. The expression of IGFBP-5 in the reproductive axis and effect on the onset of puberty in female rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:100. [PMID: 35821045 PMCID: PMC9277959 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00966-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-5 (IGFBP-5) has recently been shown to alter the reproductive capacity by regulating insulin-like growth factor (IGF) bioavailability or IGF-independent effects. The present study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of IGFBP-5 on the onset of puberty in female rats. Immunofluorescence and real-time quantitative PCR were used to determine the expression and location of IGFBP-5 mRNA and protein distribution in the infant's hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis prepuberty, peripuberty, puberty and adult female rats. Prepubertal rats with IGFBP-5 intracerebroventricular (ICV) were injected to determine the puberty-related genes expression and the concentrations of reproductive hormones. Primary hypothalamic cells were treated with IGFBP-5 to determine the expression of puberty-related genes and the Akt and mTOR proteins. Results showed that Igfbp-5 mRNA and protein were present on the HPO axis. The addition of IGFBP-5 to primary hypothalamic cells inhibited the expression of Gnrh and Igf-1 mRNAs (P < 0.05) and increased the expression of AKT and mTOR protein (P < 0.01). IGFBP-5 ICV-injection delayed the onset of puberty, reduced Gnrh, Igf-1, and Fshβ mRNAs, and decreased the concentrations of E2, P4, FSH,serum LH levels and the ovaries weight (P < 0.05). More corpus luteum and fewer primary follicles were found after IGFBP-5 injection (P < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiu Yao
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Maosen Lin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Lin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xinbao Gong
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Pin Qin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Hailing Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Tiezhu Kang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Yanyun Zhu
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Qiwen Hong
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Juhua Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
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Harlow K, Griesgraber MJ, Seman AD, Shuping SL, Sommer JR, Griffith EH, Hileman SM, Nestor CC. The impact of undernutrition on KNDy (kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin) neurons in female lambs. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13135. [PMID: 35579068 PMCID: PMC9286635 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Undernutrition limits reproduction through inhibition of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Because KNDy neurons coexpress neuropeptides that play stimulatory (kisspeptin and neurokinin B [NKB]) and inhibitory (dynorphin) roles in pulsatile GnRH/LH release, we hypothesized that undernutrition would inhibit kisspeptin and NKB expression at the same time as increasing dynorphin expression. Fifteen ovariectomized lambs were either fed to maintain pre-study body weight (controls) or feed-restricted to lose 20% of pre-study body weight (FR) over 13 weeks. Blood samples were collected and plasma from weeks 0 and 13 were assessed for LH by radioimmunoassay. At week 13, animals were killed, and brain tissue was processed for assessment of KNDy peptide mRNA or protein expression. Mean LH and LH pulse amplitude were lower in FR lambs compared to controls. We observed lower mRNA abundance for kisspeptin within KNDy neurons of FR lambs compared to controls with no significant change in mRNA for NKB or dynorphin. We also observed that FR lambs had fewer numbers of arcuate nucleus kisspeptin and NKB perikarya compared to controls. These findings support the idea that KNDy neurons are important for regulating reproduction during undernutrition in female sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- KaLynn Harlow
- Department of Animal ScienceNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNCUSA
| | - Max J. Griesgraber
- Department of Physiology and PharmacologyWest Virginia UniversityMorgantownWVUSA
| | - Andrew D. Seman
- Department of Physiology and PharmacologyWest Virginia UniversityMorgantownWVUSA
| | - Sydney L. Shuping
- Department of Animal ScienceNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNCUSA
| | - Jeffrey R. Sommer
- Department of Animal ScienceNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNCUSA
| | | | - Stanley M. Hileman
- Department of Physiology and PharmacologyWest Virginia UniversityMorgantownWVUSA
- Department of NeuroscienceWest Virginia UniversityMorgantownWVUSA
| | - Casey C Nestor
- Department of Animal ScienceNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNCUSA
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Sheep as a model for neuroendocrinology research. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 189:1-34. [PMID: 35595346 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Animal models remain essential to understand the fundamental mechanisms of physiology and pathology. Particularly, the complex and dynamic nature of neuroendocrine cells of the hypothalamus make them difficult to study. The neuroendocrine systems of the hypothalamus are critical for survival and reproduction, and are highly conserved throughout vertebrate evolution. Their roles in controlling body metabolism, growth and body composition, stress, electrolyte balance, and reproduction, have been intensively studied, and have yielded groundbreaking discoveries. Many of these discoveries would not have been feasible without the use of the domestic sheep (Ovis aries). The sheep has been used for decades to study the neuroendocrine systems of the hypothalamus and has become a model for human neuroendocrinology. The aim of this chapter is to review some of the profound biomedical discoveries made possible by the use of sheep. The advantages and limitations of sheep as a neuroendocrine model will be discussed. While no animal model can perfectly recapitulate a human disease or condition, sheep are invaluable for enabling manipulations not possible in human subjects and isolating physiologic variables to garner insight into neuroendocrinology and associated pathologies.
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Dardente H, Simonneaux V. GnRH and the photoperiodic control of seasonal reproduction: Delegating the task to kisspeptin and RFRP-3. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13124. [PMID: 35384117 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Synchronization of mammalian breeding activity to the annual change of photoperiod and environmental conditions is of the utmost importance for individual survival and species perpetuation. Subsequent to the early 1960s, when the central role of melatonin in this adaptive process was demonstrated, our comprehension of the mechanisms through which light regulates gonadal activity has increased considerably. The current model for the photoperiodic neuroendocrine system points to pivotal roles for the melatonin-sensitive pars tuberalis (PT) and its seasonally-regulated production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), as well as for TSH-sensitive hypothalamic tanycytes, radial glia-like cells located in the basal part of the third ventricle. Tanycytes respond to TSH through increased expression of thyroid hormone (TH) deiodinase 2 (Dio2), which leads to heightened production of intrahypothalamic triiodothyronine (T3) during longer days of spring and summer. There is strong evidence that this local, long-day driven, increase in T3 links melatonin input at the PT to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) output, to align breeding with the seasons. The mechanism(s) through which T3 impinges upon GnRH remain(s) unclear. However, two distinct neuronal populations of the medio-basal hypothalamus, which express the (Arg)(Phe)-amide peptides kisspeptin and RFamide-related peptide-3, appear to be well-positioned to relay this seasonal T3 message towards GnRH neurons. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the cellular, molecular and neuroendocrine players, which keep track of photoperiod and ultimately govern GnRH output and seasonal breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Dardente
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Simonneaux
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Qin YS, Bai JH, Zhang SL, Dai JG, Xu XL, Feng T, Song YQ, Xiao LL, Liu Y. Effects of kisspeptin-10 on the reproductive performance of sows in a fixed-time artificial insemination programme. Animal 2022; 16:100509. [PMID: 35436648 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2022.100509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin (KP) is a major positive regulator of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis and affects female reproductive cyclicity in mammals. It offers an attractive alternative strategy to control reproduction in fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols. We aimed to evaluate the effects of different doses of kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) on sow reproductive performance in FTAI protocols. One hundred ninety-eight weaned sows were divided into three groups at random. A FTAI-GnRH group of sows (n = 98) received 100 µg (2 mL) gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; gonadorelin) by intramuscular injection at 96 h after weaning (t = 0 h); FTAI-KPL (KPL: low-dose KP-10, n = 50), and FTAI-KPH groups of sows (KPH: high-dose KP-10, n = 50) received 0.5 or 1 mg KP-10 (2 mL) respectively at 96 h after weaning. Sows were checked twice daily for oestrus. Ultrasonographic evaluations were performed to determine the follicular diameter and time of ovulation; blood samples were collected immediately before injection (t0 = 0 min) and at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 min, 24 and 48 h postinjection. Sows were inseminated at 112 and 132 h after weaning. The oestrus rates (96 vs 92%; 96 vs 88%) and weaning-to-oestrus intervals (98.9 vs 98.6 h; 98.9 vs 97.1 h) were not affected by treatment, but oestrus in the FTAI-KPL group was significantly longer than in the FTAI-GnRH group (38.7 vs 30.0 h; P < 0.05). The peak LH concentrations were 1.29 times greater than at t0 = 0 in the FTAI-GnRH group, and 1.45 and 1.44 times greater than at t0 = 0 in the FTAI-KPL and FTAI-KPH groups, respectively. Follicular diameters and pregnancy rates (86 vs 88%, 86 vs 80%, respectively) did not differ between the treatments. Moreover, the total numbers of piglets born and those born alive did not differ among the three groups. These findings suggested that 0.5 mg KP-10 given at 96 h after weaning could be used in FTAI programmes to manage batch farrowing in sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y S Qin
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - J H Bai
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - S L Zhang
- Beijing University of Agricultural, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing 100096, PR China
| | - J G Dai
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - X L Xu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - T Feng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - Y Q Song
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - L L Xiao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - Y Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China.
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Vaudin P, Augé C, Just N, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Mortaud S, Pillon D. When pharmaceutical drugs become environmental pollutants: Potential neural effects and underlying mechanisms. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 205:112495. [PMID: 34883077 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical drugs have become consumer products, with a daily use for some of them. The volume of production and consumption of drugs is such that they have become environmental pollutants. Their transfer to wastewater through urine, feces or rinsing in case of skin use, associated with partial elimination by wastewater treatment plants generalize pollution in the hydrosphere, including drinking water, sediments, soils, the food chain and plants. Here, we review the potential effects of environmental exposure to three classes of pharmaceutical drugs, i.e. antibiotics, antidepressants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, on neurodevelopment. Experimental studies analyzing their underlying modes of action including those related to endocrine disruption, and molecular mechanisms including epigenetic modifications are presented. In addition, the contribution of brain imaging to the assessment of adverse effects of these three classes of pharmaceuticals is approached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Vaudin
- Physiologie de La Reproduction et des Comportements, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Corinne Augé
- UMR 1253, IBrain, University of Tours, INSERM, 37000, Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Just
- Physiologie de La Reproduction et des Comportements, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neuroscience Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Stéphane Mortaud
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires, UMR7355, CNRS, Université D'Orléans, 45000, Orléans, France
| | - Delphine Pillon
- Physiologie de La Reproduction et des Comportements, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
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Trudeau VL. Neuroendocrine Control of Reproduction in Teleost Fish: Concepts and Controversies. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2021; 10:107-130. [PMID: 34788545 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-020420-042015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During the teleost radiation, extensive development of the direct innervation mode of hypothalamo-pituitary communication was accompanied by loss of the median eminence typical of mammals. Cells secreting follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone cells are directly innervated, distinct populations in the anterior pituitary. So far, ∼20 stimulatory and ∼10 inhibitory neuropeptides, 3 amines, and 3 amino acid neurotransmitters are implicated in the control of reproduction. Positive and negative sex steroid feedback loops operate in both sexes. Gene mutation models in zebrafish and medaka now challenge our general understanding of vertebrate neuropeptidergic control. New reproductive neuropeptides are emerging. These include but are not limited to nesfatin 1, neurokinin B, and the secretoneurins. A generalized model for the neuroendocrine control of reproduction is proposed. Hopefully, this will serve as a research framework on diverse species to help explain the evolution of neuroendocrine control and lead to the discovery of new hormones with novel applications. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, Volume 10 is February 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; ,
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Kang T, Ye J, Qin P, Li H, Yao Z, Liu Y, Ling Y, Zhang Y, Yu T, Cao H, Li Y, Wang J, Fang F. Knockdown of Ptprn-2 delays the onset of puberty in female rats. Theriogenology 2021; 176:137-148. [PMID: 34607132 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we evaluated how Ptprn-2 (encoding tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type, N2 polypeptide protein) affects the onset of puberty in female rats. We evaluated the expression of Ptprn-2 mRNA and protein in the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis of female rats using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunofluorescence at infancy, prepuberty, puberty, peripuberty, and adulthood. We evaluated the effects of Ptprn-2 gene knockdown on different aspects of reproduction-related biology in female rats, including the expression levels of puberty-related genes in vivo and in vitro, the time to onset of puberty, the concentration of serum reproductive hormones, the morphology of ovaries, and the ultrastructure of pituitary gonadotropin cells. Our results demonstrated that PTPRN-2 was primarily distributed in the arcuate nucleus (ARC), periventricular nucleus (PeN), adenohypophysis, and the ovarian follicular theca, stroma, and granulosa cells of female rats at various stages. Ptprn-2 mRNA levels significantly varied between peripuberty and puberty (P < 0.05) in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In hypothalamic cells, Ptprn-2 knockdown decreased the expression of Ptprn-2 and Rfrp-3 mRNA (P < 0.05) and increased the levels of Gnrh and Kiss-1 mRNA (P < 0.05). Ptprn-2 knockdown in the hypothalamus resulted in delayed vaginal opening compared to the control group (n = 12, P < 0.01), and Ptprn-2, Gnrh, and Kiss-1 mRNA levels (P < 0.05) all decreased, while the expression of Igf-1 (P < 0.05) and Rfrp-3 mRNA (P < 0.01) increased. The concentrations of FSH and P4 in the serum of Ptprn-2 knockdown rats were lower than in control animals (P < 0.05). Large transverse perimeters and longitudinal perimeters (P < 0.05) were found in the ovaries of Ptprn-2 knockdown rats. There were fewer large secretory particles from gonadotropin cells in adenohypophysis tissue of the Ptprn-2 knockdown group compared to the control group. This indicates that Ptprn-2 knockdown can regulate levels of Gnrh, Kiss-1, and Rfrp-3 mRNA in the hypothalamus, regulate the concentration of serum FSH and P4, and alter the morphology of ovarian and gonadotropin cells, delaying the onset of puberty in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiezhu Kang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Ping Qin
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Hailing Li
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Zhiqiu Yao
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Yinghui Ling
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Yunhai Zhang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Hongguo Cao
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Juhua Wang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230036, China.
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Aerts EG, Harlow K, Griesgraber MJ, Bowdridge EC, Hardy SL, Nestor CC, Hileman SM. Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Dynorphin Expression during Pubertal Development in Female Sheep. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100988. [PMID: 34681086 PMCID: PMC8533601 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The neural mechanisms underlying increases in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion that drive puberty onset are unknown. Neurons coexpressing kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin, i.e., KNDy neurons, are important as kisspeptin and NKB are stimulatory, and dynorphin inhibitory, to GnRH secretion. Given this, we hypothesized that kisspeptin and NKB expression would increase, but that dynorphin expression would decrease, with puberty. We collected blood and hypothalamic tissue from ovariectomized lambs implanted with estradiol at five, six, seven, eight (puberty), and ten months of age. Mean LH values and LH pulse frequency were the lowest at five to seven months, intermediate at eight months, and highest at ten months. Kisspeptin and NKB immunopositive cell numbers did not change with age. Numbers of cells expressing mRNA for kisspeptin, NKB, or dynorphin were similar at five, eight, and ten months of age. Age did not affect mRNA expression per cell for kisspeptin or NKB, but dynorphin mRNA expression per cell was elevated at ten months versus five months. Thus, neither KNDy protein nor mRNA expression changed in a predictable manner during pubertal development. These data raise the possibility that KNDy neurons, while critical, may await other inputs for the initiation of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana G. Aerts
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 9229, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; (E.G.A.); (M.J.G.); (E.C.B.); (S.L.H.)
| | - KaLynn Harlow
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (K.H.); (C.C.N.)
| | - Max J. Griesgraber
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 9229, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; (E.G.A.); (M.J.G.); (E.C.B.); (S.L.H.)
| | - Elizabeth C. Bowdridge
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 9229, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; (E.G.A.); (M.J.G.); (E.C.B.); (S.L.H.)
| | - Steven L. Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 9229, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; (E.G.A.); (M.J.G.); (E.C.B.); (S.L.H.)
| | - Casey C Nestor
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (K.H.); (C.C.N.)
| | - Stanley M. Hileman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 9229, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; (E.G.A.); (M.J.G.); (E.C.B.); (S.L.H.)
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-304-293-1502; Fax: +1-304-293-3850
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Sánchez JM, Keogh K, Kelly AK, Byrne CJ, Lonergan P, Kenny DA. A high plane of nutrition during early life alters the hypothalamic transcriptome of heifer calves. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13978. [PMID: 34234169 PMCID: PMC8263617 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93080-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to examine the effect of rapid body weight gain during early calfhood consistent with earlier sexual development on the transcriptional profile of the hypothalamus. Angus X Holstein-Friesian heifer calves (19 ± 5 days of age) were offered a high (HI, n = 14) or moderate (MOD, n = 15) plane of nutrition from 3 to 21 weeks of age to achieve a growth rate of 1.2 kg/d and 0.5 kg/d, respectively. Following euthanasia at 21 weeks, the arcuate nucleus (ARC) region was separated from the remainder of the hypothalamus and both were subjected to RNA-Seq. HI calves exhibited altered expression of 80 and 39 transcripts in the ARC and the remaining hypothalamus, respectively (P < 0.05) including downregulation of AGRP and NPY and upregulation of POMC, previously implicated in precocious sexual development. Stress-signaling pathways were amongst the most highly dysregulated. Organ morphology, reproductive system development and function, and developmental disorder were amongst the networks derived from differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the ARC. Gene co-expression analysis revealed DEGs within the ARC (POMC, CBLN2, CHGA) and hypothalamus (PENK) as hub genes. In conclusion, enhanced nutrition during early calfhood alters the biochemical regulation of the hypothalamus consistent with advanced sexual development in the prepubertal heifer.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación Y Tecnología Agraria Y Alimentaria, Ctr. de la Coruña Km 5.9, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Kate Keogh
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - Alan K Kelly
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Colin J Byrne
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - David A Kenny
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, Ireland.
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Serra E, Gadau SD, Leoni GG, Naitana S, Succu S. Seasonal Effect on Developmental Competence, Oxidative Status and Tubulin Assessment of Prepubertal Ovine Oocyte. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071886. [PMID: 34202918 PMCID: PMC8300209 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Oocytes obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered prepubertal ewes can be incorporated into an in vitro embryo production system. The collection of this material is possible at two different times of the year, spring and autumn. The first period is linked to the natural reproductive cycle of the sheep. The second, on the other hand, is linked to the manipulation of the reproductive seasonality which allows the oestrus cycle to be controlled artificially. The analysis highlighted that the collection season influences oocytes quality from prepubertal donors in terms of improved energetic and oxidative status, microtubular organization, and developmental competence in oocytes recovered in spring. Data obtained underline that oocytes seem to be genetically and evolutionarily programmed to give their best in spring, this being the most favorable period for newborns. Abstract The reproductive seasonality of domestic animals is often manipulated in order to have more reproductive periods for commercial purposes related to the production of milk and meat. It is scientifically proven that such an alteration of the reproductive activity in sheep entails a deterioration in oocyte quality, leading to an inability to generate embryos. Since oocytes obtained from prepubertal ewes can be incorporated into an in vitro embryo production system and considering that their quality is crucial to the success of in vitro procedures, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of seasons on the quality of prepubertal ovine oocytes collected in autumn and spring. Ovaries were collected from a local slaughterhouse from 30–40-day-old suckling lambs during both seasons. Following 24 h of in vitro maturation, oocytes developmental competence, reactive oxygen species (ROS) intracellular levels, and mitochondrial activity were evaluated, and a tubulin assessment was performed. The results on embryo production, as a percentage of first divisions and number of blastocysts obtained, were significantly higher in oocytes collected in the spring. Mitochondrial activity in oocytes was higher, and ROS production significantly lower, in spring than in autumn. Tubulin PTMs (tyrosinated and acetylated α-tubulin) showed a higher immunoreactivity in oocytes collected in spring compared with autumn sampling. Our data showed that seasons may affect the developmental competence, energetic status, and tubulin assessment of oocytes recovered from prepubertal ewes. Therefore, special care should be taken when choosing the period of the year for prepuberal ovine oocytes collection aimed at in vitro embryo reproduction programs.
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Lindo AN, Thorson JF, Bedenbaugh MN, McCosh RB, Lopez JA, Young SA, Meadows LJ, Bowdridge EC, Fergani C, Freking BA, Lehman MN, Hileman SM, Lents CA. Localization of kisspeptin, NKB, and NK3R in the hypothalamus of gilts treated with the progestin altrenogest. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1056-1067. [PMID: 34037695 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms in the brain controlling secretion of gonadotropin hormones in pigs, particularly luteinizing hormone (LH), are poorly understood. Kisspeptin is a potent LH stimulant that is essential for fertility in many species, including pigs. Neurokinin B (NKB) acting through neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) is involved in kisspeptin-stimulated LH release, but organization of NKB and NK3R within the porcine hypothalamus is unknown. Hypothalamic tissue from ovariectomized (OVX) gilts was used to determine the distribution of immunoreactive kisspeptin, NKB, and NK3R cells in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). Almost all kisspeptin neurons coexpressed NKB in the porcine ARC. Immunostaining for NK3R was distributed throughout the preoptic area (POA) and in several hypothalamic areas including the periventricular and retrochiasmatic areas but was not detected within the ARC. There was no colocalization of NK3R with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), but NK3R-positive fibers in the POA were in close apposition to GnRH neurons. Treating OVX gilts with the progestin altrenogest decreased LH pulse frequency and reduced mean circulating concentrations of LH compared with OVX control gilts (P < 0.01), but the number of kisspeptin and NKB cells in the ARC did not differ between treatments. The neuroanatomical arrangement of kisspeptin, NKB, and NK3R within the porcine hypothalamus confirm they are positioned to stimulate GnRH and LH secretion in gilts, though differences with other species exist. Altrenogest suppression of LH secretion in the OVX gilt does not appear to involve decreased peptide expression of kisspeptin or NKB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Lindo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Michelle N Bedenbaugh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Richard B McCosh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Justin A Lopez
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Samantha A Young
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Lanny J Meadows
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Bowdridge
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Chrysanthi Fergani
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Miss., USA
| | | | - Michael N Lehman
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Stanley M Hileman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Clay A Lents
- USDA, ARS, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
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20
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He X, Tao L, Zhong Y, Di R, Xia Q, Wang X, Guo X, Gan S, Zhang X, Zhang J, Liu Q, Chu M. Photoperiod induced the pituitary differential regulation of lncRNAs and mRNAs related to reproduction in sheep. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10953. [PMID: 33976954 PMCID: PMC8067910 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The pituitary is a vital endocrine organ that regulates animal seasonal reproduction by controlling the synthesis and secretion of the hormone. The change of photoperiod is the key factor affecting the function of the pituitary in animals, but the mechanism is unclear. Here, we studied the transcriptomic variation in pars distalis (PD) of the pituitary between short photoperiod (SP) and long photoperiod (LP) using RNA sequencing based on the OVX+E2 sheep. 346 differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs and 186 DE-mRNA were found in the PD. Moreover, function annotation analysis indicated that the reproductive hormones and photoperiod response-related pathways including aldosterone synthesis and secretion, insulin secretion, thyroid hormone synthesis, and circadian entrainment were enriched. The interaction analysis of mRNA-lncRNA suggested that MSTRG.240648, MSTRG.85500, MSTRG.32448, and MSTRG.304959 targeted CREB3L1 and DUSP6, which may be involved in the photoperiodic regulation of the PD. These findings provide resources for further study on the seasonal reproductive in ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun He
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Tao
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Zhong
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Di
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Xia
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofei Guo
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Shangquan Gan
- Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Xinjiang, China
| | | | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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21
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Merkley CM, Shuping SL, Sommer JR, Nestor CC. Evidence That Agouti-Related Peptide May Directly Regulate Kisspeptin Neurons in Male Sheep. Metabolites 2021; 11:138. [PMID: 33652696 PMCID: PMC7996775 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11030138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons, which relay information from peripheral metabolic signals, may constitute a key central regulator of reproduction. Given that AgRP inhibits luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and that nutritional suppression of LH elicits an increase in AgRP while suppressing kisspeptin expression in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus, we sought to examine the degree to which AgRP could directly regulate ARC kisspeptin neurons. Hypothalamic tissue was collected from four castrated male sheep (10 months of age) and processed for the detection of protein (AgRP input to kisspeptin neurons) using immunohistochemistry and mRNA for melanocortin 3 and 4 receptors (MC3R; MC4R) in kisspeptin neurons using RNAscope. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the majority of ARC kisspeptin neurons are contacted by presumptive AgRP terminals. RNAscope analysis revealed that nearly two thirds of the ARC kisspeptin neurons express mRNA for MC3R, while a small percentage (<10%) colocalize MC4R. Taken together, this data provides neuroanatomical evidence for a direct link between orexigenic AgRP neurons and reproductively critical kisspeptin neurons in the sheep, and builds upon our current understanding of the central link between energy balance and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Casey C Nestor
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (C.M.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.R.S.)
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22
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Abstract
Estrus synchronization and manipulation are a tool that has been used by producers to provide uniform lamb and kid meat production and dairy sheep and goat milk production, to concentrate work and labor cost, and to plan for the lambing and kidding time. Breeders can also use estrus synchronization to stimulate ewes and does to exhibit estrus and ovulate outside of the breeding season, although both the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate may be decreased. To increase the ovulation rate outside of the breeding season, a variety of estrus synchronization methods have been used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Anne Kutzler
- Animal and Rangeland Science, Oregon State University, 112 Withycombe Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
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23
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Naulé L, Maione L, Kaiser UB. Puberty, A Sensitive Window of Hypothalamic Development and Plasticity. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqaa209. [PMID: 33175140 PMCID: PMC7733306 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Puberty is a developmental period characterized by a broad range of physiologic changes necessary for the acquisition of adult sexual and reproductive maturity. These changes mirror complex modifications within the central nervous system, including within the hypothalamus. These modifications result in the maturation of a fully active hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the neuroendocrine cascade ensuring gonadal activation, sex steroid secretion, and gametogenesis. A complex and finely regulated neural network overseeing the HPG axis, particularly the pubertal reactivation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, has been progressively unveiled in the last 3 decades. This network includes kisspeptin, neurokinin B, GABAergic, and glutamatergic neurons as well as glial cells. In addition to substantial modifications in the expression of key targets, several changes in neuronal morphology, neural connections, and synapse organization occur to establish mature and coordinated neurohormonal secretion, leading to puberty initiation. The aim of this review is to outline the current knowledge of the major changes that neurons secreting GnRH and their neuronal and glial partners undergo before and after puberty. Emerging mediators upstream of GnRH, uncovered in recent years, are also addressed herein. In addition, the effects of sex steroids, particularly estradiol, on changes in hypothalamic neurodevelopment and plasticity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydie Naulé
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luigi Maione
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Paris Saclay University, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department Endocrinology and Reproductive Diseases, Bicêtre Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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24
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Komatsu K, Murata K, Iwasaki T, Tokita S, Yonekura S, Sugimura S, Fujishima Y, Nakata A, Miura T, Yamashiro H. Changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality in wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus). Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210067. [PMID: 35035541 PMCID: PMC8747936 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus) responses to cyclic seasonal changes are associated with physiological and behavioral changes. However, the detailed regulation of oogenesis in the ovary during the seasonal reproductive cycle in wild large Japanese field mice has not been studied. We assessed the dynamics and changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality throughout the year. The stages of the ovarian morphological breeding cycle of wild large Japanese field mice were classified as breeding, transition, and non-breeding periods during the annual reproductive cycle. Measurement of blood estradiol concentrations throughout the year showed that the levels in September and October were higher than those in other months. It is presumed that follicle development starts from a blood estradiol concentration of 38.4 ± 27.1 pg/mL, which marks a shift from the transitional season to the breeding season, followed by the transition to the non-breeding season at 26.1 ± 11.6 pg/mL. These results suggest that seasonal follicle development in wild rodents is correlated with estradiol regulation. We consider this species to be an alternative animal model for studying seasonal reproductive changes and the effects of environmental changes.
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25
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D’Occhio MJ, Campanile G, Baruselli PS. Peripheral action of kisspeptin at reproductive tissues-role in ovarian function and embryo implantation and relevance to assisted reproductive technology in livestock: a review. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1157-1170. [PMID: 32776148 PMCID: PMC7711897 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kisspeptin (KISS1) is encoded by the KISS1 gene and was initially found to be a repressor of metastasis. Natural mutations in the KISS1 receptor gene (KISS1R) were subsequently shown to be associated with idiopathic hypothalamic hypogonadism and impaired puberty. This led to interest in the role of KISS1 in reproduction. It was established that KISS1 had a fundamental role in the control of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. KISS1 neurons have receptors for leptin and estrogen receptor α (ERα), which places KISS1 at the gateway of metabolic (leptin) and gonadal (ERα) regulation of GnRH secretion. More recently, KISS1 has been shown to act at peripheral reproductive tissues. KISS1 and KISS1R genes are expressed in follicles (granulosa, theca, oocyte), trophoblast, and uterus. KISS1 and KISS1R proteins are found in the same tissues. KISS1 appears to have autocrine and paracrine actions in follicle and oocyte maturation, trophoblast development, and implantation and placentation. In some studies, KISS1 was beneficial to in vitro oocyte maturation and blastocyst development. The next phase of KISS1 research will explore potential benefits on embryo survival and pregnancy. This will likely involve longer-term KISS1 treatments during proestrus, early embryo development, trophoblast attachment, and implantation and pregnancy. A deeper understanding of the direct action of KISS1 at reproductive tissues could help to achieve the next step change in embryo survival and improvement in the efficiency of assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J D’Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Giuseppe Campanile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro S Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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26
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Merkley CM, Shuping SL, Nestor CC. Neuronal networks that regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone/luteinizing hormone secretion during undernutrition: evidence from sheep. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 73:106469. [PMID: 32247618 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are the final common conduit from the central nervous system in the reproductive axis, controlling luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion from the gonadotropes of the anterior pituitary. Although it is generally accepted that undernutrition inhibits GnRH/LH secretion, the central mechanisms that underlie the link between energy balance and reproduction remain to be fully elucidated. Sheep have been a longstanding and invaluable animal model for examination of the nutritional regulation of GnRH/LH secretion, given their ability to serve a biomedical and agricultural purpose. In this review, we summarize work that has used the ovine model to examine the central mechanisms whereby undernutrition regulates GnRH/LH secretion. Specifically, we focus our attention to the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and on neurons that express kisspeptin, neurokinin B, dynorphin, proopiomelanocortin, and neuropeptide y/agouti-related peptide (NPY/AgRP). We examine their roles in mediating the effects of leptin and insulin and their effects on LH during undernutrition, as well as their regulation under conditions of undernutrition. This review will also highlight the interactions between the aforementioned neuronal networks themselves, which may be important for our understanding of the roles each play in relaying information regarding energy status during times of undernutrition to ultimately regulate GnRH/LH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Merkley
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - S L Shuping
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - C C Nestor
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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27
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Młotkowska P, Marciniak E, Roszkowicz-Ostrowska K, Misztal T. Effects of allopregnanolone on central reproductive functions in sheep under natural and stressful conditions. Theriogenology 2020; 158:138-147. [PMID: 32956862 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive functions may be affected by internal and external factors that are integrated in the central nervous system (CNS). Stressful stimuli induce the neuroendocrine response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, as well as the synthesis of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (AL) in the brain. This study tested the hypothesis that centrally administered AL could affect the expression of certain genes involved in reproductive functions at the hypothalamus and pituitary levels, as well as pulsatile gonadotropin secretion in sheep under both natural and stressful conditions. Luteal-phase sheep (n = 24) were subjected to a three-day (day 12-14 of the estrous cycle) series of control or AL (4 × 15 μg/60 μL/30 min, at 30 min intervals) infusions into the third ventricle. Acute stressful stimuli (isolation from other sheep and partial movement restriction) were used in the third day of infusion. Stressful stimuli reduced kisspeptin-1 mRNA levels in both the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) and the preoptic area (POA), while pro-dynorphin (PDYN) mRNA level only in the MBH. AL alone decreased the abundances of these transcripts in both structures. Stress increased the expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA in the MBH and POA, luteinizing hormone (LH) β subunit (LHβ) mRNA in the anterior pituitary (AP) and pulsatile LH secretion. In contrast, mRNA level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) β subunit (FSHβ) was decreased in the AP, with no effect of stress on pulsatile FSH secretion. In stressed sheep, AL counteracted the increase in GnRH mRNA expression only in the POA, but it decreased the level of this transcript in both hypothalamic tissues when infused alone. AL prevented the stress-induced increase in LHβ mRNA expression in the AP and pulsatile LH secretion, as well as inhibited almost all aspects of FSH secretion when administered alone. The suppressive effect of AL on GnRH receptor mRNA expression was also observed in both MBH and AP. We concluded that acute stress and AL exerted multidirectional effects on hypothalamic centers that regulate reproductive functions and secretory activity of AP gonadotrophs in sheep. However, we indicated the dominant inhibitory effect of AL under natural and stressful conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Młotkowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Roszkowicz-Ostrowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Misztal
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
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28
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Zhang GM, Guo YX, Cheng CY, El-Samahy MA, Tong R, Gao XX, Deng KP, Wang F, Lei ZH. Arginine infusion rescues ovarian follicular development in feed-restricted Hu sheep during the luteal phase. Theriogenology 2020; 158:75-83. [PMID: 32932187 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of arginine (Arg) on follicular development of acute feed-restricted ewes during the luteal phase. From day 6 of the estrous cycle, 24 multiparous Hu sheep were randomly assigned into three groups: control group (a maintenance diet; n = 6), feed restriction group (0.5 maintenance diet, saline infusion; n = 9) and Arg treatment group (0.5 maintenance diet, infusion with 155 μmol of Arg-HCl/kg body weight; n = 9). The intravenous administrations were performed three times per day from day 6 to day 15 of the estrous cycle. At the end of treatment, the hypothalamus and pituitary were collected, as well as the follicular fluid (FF) and granulose cells (GCs) in the ≥2.5 mm follicles. The transcription level of NPVF was significantly increased, and the expression level of GNRH was significantly decreased in the hypothalamus with feed restriction. In addition, feed restriction significantly decreased the number of ≥2.5 mm follicles in the ovaries. In the ≥2.5 mm follicles, feed restriction significantly increased estradiol (E2) level in FF and the expression levels of steroidogenesis related genes (STAR, 3BHSD and CYP19A1) in GCs, while significantly decreased the expressions of FSHR and cell proliferation related genes (YAP1, CCND1 and PCNA) in GCs. Moreover, the activities of glucose metabolism enzymes (PFKP and G6PDH) were significantly decreased in GCs of the ≥2.5 mm follicles with feed restriction. Interestingly, as a precursor of nitric oxide, Arg supplementation can rescue the effects of feed restriction on follicular development by enhancing glucose metabolism and cell proliferation of GCs, and alleviating the abnormal E2 secretion in the ≥2.5 mm follicles, accompanied with recovering the expressions of NPVF and GNRH in the hypothalamus. These findings will be helpful for understanding the role of nutrition and Arg in sheep follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Min Zhang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yi-Xuan Guo
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Chun-Yu Cheng
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A El-Samahy
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ran Tong
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Kai-Ping Deng
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
| | - Zhi-Hai Lei
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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29
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Kereilwe O, Kadokawa H. Anti-Müllerian hormone and its receptor are detected in most gonadotropin-releasing-hormone cell bodies and fibers in heifer brains. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 72:106432. [PMID: 32169754 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.106432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Circulating concentrations of Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can indicate fertility in various animals, but the physiological mechanisms underlying the effect of AMH on fertility remain unknown. We recently discovered that AMH has extragonadal functions via its main receptor, AMH receptor type 2 (AMHR2). Specifically, AMH stimulates the secretion of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone from bovine gonadotrophs. Moreover, gonadotrophs themselves express AMH to exert paracrine/autocrine functions, and AMH can activate gonadotropin-releasing-hormone (GnRH) neurons in mice. This study aimed to evaluate whether AMH and AMHR2 are detected in areas of the brain relevant to neuroendocrine control of reproduction: the preoptic area (POA), arcuate nucleus (ARC), and median eminence (ME), and in particular within GnRH neurons. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction detected both AMH and AMHR2 mRNA in tissues containing POA, as well as in those containing both ARC and ME, collected from postpubertal heifers. Western blotting detected AMH and AMHR2 protein in the collected tissues. Triple fluorescence immunohistochemistry revealed that most cell bodies or fibers of GnRH neurons were AMHR2-positive and AMH-positive, although some were negative. Immunohistochemistry revealed that 75% to 85% of cell bodies and fibers of GnRH neurons were positive for both AMH and AMHR2 in the POA, ARC, and both the internal and external zones of the ME. The cell bodies of GnRH neurons were situated around other AMH-positive cell bodies or fibers of GnRH and non-GNRH neurons. Our findings thus indicate that AMH and AMHR2 are detected in most cell bodies or fibers of GnRH neurons in the POA, ARC, and ME of heifer brains. These data support the need for further study as to how AMH and AMHR2 act within the hypothalamus to influence GnRH and gonadotropin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Kereilwe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi-shi, Yamaguchi-ken 1677-1, Japan
| | - H Kadokawa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi-shi, Yamaguchi-ken 1677-1, Japan.
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30
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Han Y, Peng X, Si W, Liu G, Han Y, Jiang X, Na R, Yang L, Wu J, E G, Zeng Y, Zhao Y, Huang Y. Local expressions and function of Kiss1/GPR54 in goats' testes. Gene 2020; 738:144488. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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31
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Herbison AE. A simple model of estrous cycle negative and positive feedback regulation of GnRH secretion. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100837. [PMID: 32240664 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The gonadal steroids estradiol and progesterone exert critical suppressive and stimulatory actions upon the brain to control gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release that drives the estrous/menstrual cycle. A simple model for understanding these interactions is proposed in which the activity of the "GnRH pulse generator" is restrained by post-ovulation progesterone secretion to bring about the estrus/luteal phase slowing of pulsatile gonadotropin release, while the activity of the "GnRH surge generator" is primed by the rising follicular phase levels of estradiol to generate the pre-ovulatory surge. The physiological fluctuations in estradiol levels across the cycle are considered to clamp the GnRH pulse generator output at a constant level. Independent pulse and surge generator circuitries regulate the excitability of different compartments of the GnRH neuron. As such, GnRH secretion through the cycle is determined simply by the summed influence of the estradiol-clamped, progesterone-regulated pulse and estradiol-regulated surge generators on the GnRH neuron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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Ladyman SR, Hackwell ECR, Brown RSE. The role of prolactin in co-ordinating fertility and metabolic adaptations during reproduction. Neuropharmacology 2019; 167:107911. [PMID: 32058177 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian pregnancy and lactation is accompanied by a period of infertility that takes place in the midst of a sustained increase in food intake. Indeed, successful reproduction in females is dependent on co-ordination of the distinct systems that regulate reproduction and metabolism. Rather than arising from different mechanisms during pregnancy and lactation, we propose that elevations in lactogenic hormones (predominant among these being prolactin and the placental lactogens), are ideally placed to influence both of these systems at the appropriate time. We review the literature examining the impacts of lactogens on fertility and energy homeostasis in the virgin state, during pregnancy and lactation and potential long-term impacts of reproductive experience. Taken together, the literature indicates that duration and pattern of lactogen exposure is a vital factor in the ability of these hormones to alter reproduction and food intake. Transient increases in prolactin, as typically seen in healthy virgin females and males, are unable to exert lasting impacts. Importantly, both suppression of fertility and increased food intake are only observed following exposure to chronically-elevated levels of lactogens. Physiologically, the only time this pattern of lactogenic secretion is maintained in the healthy female is during pregnancy and lactation, when co-ordination between these regulatory systems emerges. This article is part of the special issue on 'Neuropeptides'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon R Ladyman
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Eleni C R Hackwell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rosemary S E Brown
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Terasawa E. Mechanism of pulsatile GnRH release in primates: Unresolved questions. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 498:110578. [PMID: 31518609 PMCID: PMC6944307 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The pulsatility of GnRH release is essential for reproductive function. The key events in reproductive function, such as puberty onset and ovulatory cycles, are regulated by the frequency and amplitude modulation of pulsatile GnRH release. Abnormal patterns of GnRH pulsatility are seen in association with disease states, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and anorexia nervosa. Recent studies with physiological, track-tracing, optogenetic and electrophysiological recording experiments indicate that a group of kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus are responsible for pulsatile GnRH release. Thus, the kisspeptin neuron in the ARC has been called the "GnRH pulse-generator." However, a few pieces of evidence do not quite fit into this concept. This article reviews some old works and discusses unresolved issues on the mechanism of GnRH pulse generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ei Terasawa
- AWisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
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Zhang Z, Tang J, He X, Zhu M, Gan S, Guo X, Zhang X, Zhang J, Hu W, Chu M. Comparative Transcriptomics Identify Key Hypothalamic Circular RNAs that Participate in Sheep ( Ovis aries) Reproduction. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9080557. [PMID: 31416269 PMCID: PMC6721059 DOI: 10.3390/ani9080557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The hypothalamus plays crucial roles in sheep reproduction. However, the expression profiles of sheep hypothalamic circular RNA (circRNA), which has been proved to exert important functions in many physiological processes, remain largely unknown. In this study, we used RNA sequencing to explore the expression of circRNAs in the hypothalamus of sheep with the FecB ++ genotype. The results suggested that several key hypothalamic circRNAs may participate in sheep reproduction by influencing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) activities or affecting key gene expression indirectly or directly. This study provides a further reference for understanding the differences of sheep fecundity. Abstract Circular RNA (circRNA), as an emerging class of noncoding RNA, has been found to play key roles in many biological processes. However, its expression profile in the hypothalamus, a powerful organ initiating the reproductive process, has not yet been explored. Therefore, we used RNA sequencing to explore the expression of circRNAs in the hypothalamus of sheep with the FecB ++ genotype. We totally identified 41,863 circRNAs from sheep hypothalamus, in which 333 (162 were upregulated, while 171 were downregulated) were differentially expressed in polytocous sheep in the follicular phase versus monotocous sheep in the follicular phase (PF vs. MF), moreover, 340 circRNAs (163 were upregulated, while 177 were downregulated) were differentially expressed in polytocous sheep in the luteal phase versus monotocous sheep in the luteal sheep (PL vs. ML). We also identified several key circRNAs including oar_circ_0018794, oar_circ_0008291, oar_circ_0015119, oar_circ_0012801, oar_circ_0010234, and oar_circ_0013788 through functional enrichment analysis and oar_circ_0012110 through a competing endogenous RNA network, most of which may participate in reproduction by influencing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) activities or affecting key gene expression, indirectly or directly. Our study explored the overall expression profile of circRNAs in sheep hypothalamus, which potentially provides an alternative insight into the mechanism of sheep prolificacy without the effects of FecB mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangbiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jishun Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingxia Zhu
- Agricultural College, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Shangquan Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi 832000, China
| | - Xiaofei Guo
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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Zhang Z, Tang J, Di R, Liu Q, Wang X, Gan S, Zhang X, Zhang J, Chen W, Hu W, Chu M. Identification of Prolificacy-Related Differentially Expressed Proteins from Sheep (Ovis aries) Hypothalamus by Comparative Proteomics. Proteomics 2019; 19:e1900118. [PMID: 31136077 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201900118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction, as a physiologically complex process, can significantly affect the development of the sheep industry. However, a lack of overall understanding to sheep fecundity has long blocked the progress in sheep breeding and husbandry. In the present study, the aim is to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) from hypothalamus in sheep without FecB mutation in two comparison groups: polytocous (PF) versus monotocous (MF) sheep at follicular phase and polytocous (PL) versus monotocous (ML) sheep at luteal phase. Totally 5058 proteins are identified in sheep hypothalamus, where 22 in PF versus MF, and 39 proteins in PL versus ML are differentially expressed, respectively. A functional analysis is then conducted including Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis to reveal the potential roles of these DEPs. The proteins ENSOARP00000020097, ENSOARP00000006714, growth hormone (GH), histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4), and 5'-3' exoribonuclease 2 (XRN2) in PF versus MF, and bcl-2-associated athanogene 4 (BAG4), insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R), hydroxysteroid 11-beta dehydrogenase 1 (HSD11B1), and transthyretin (TTR) in PL versus ML appear to modulate reproduction, presumably by influencing the activities of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This study provides an alternative method to identify DEPs associated with sheep prolificacy from the hypothalamus. The mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD013822.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangbiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jishun Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China.,Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shangquan Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, 832000, China
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Shanghai Applied Protein Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
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McQuillan HJ, Han SY, Cheong I, Herbison AE. GnRH Pulse Generator Activity Across the Estrous Cycle of Female Mice. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1480-1491. [PMID: 31083714 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A subpopulation of kisspeptin neurons located in the arcuate nucleus (ARN) operate as the GnRH pulse generator. The activity of this population of neurons can be monitored in real-time for long periods using kisspeptin neuron-selective GCaMP6 fiber photometry. Using this approach, we find that ARN kisspeptin neurons exhibit brief (∼50 seconds) periods of synchronized activity that precede pulses of LH in intact female mice. The dynamics and frequency of these synchronization episodes (SEs) are stable at approximately one event every 40 minutes throughout metestrus, diestrus, and proestrus, but slow considerably on estrus to occur approximately once every 10 hours. Evaluation of ARN kisspeptin neuron activity across the light-dark transition, including the time of onset of the proestrus LH surge, revealed no changes in SE frequency. Longer 24-hour recordings across proestrus into estrus demonstrated that an abrupt decrease in SEs occurred ∼4 to 5 hours after the onset of the LH surge to reach the low frequency of SEs observed on estrus. The frequency of SEs was stable across the 24-hour period from metestrus to diestrus. Administration of progesterone to diestrus mice resulted in the abrupt slowing of SEs. These observations show that the GnRH pulse generator exhibits an unvarying pattern of activity from metestrus through to the late evening of proestrus, at which time it slows dramatically, likely in response to postovulation progesterone secretion. The GnRH pulse generator maintains a constant frequency of activity across the time of the LH surge, demonstrating that it is not involved directly in surge generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- H James McQuillan
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Su Young Han
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Isaiah Cheong
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allan E Herbison
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Zhang Z, Tang J, Di R, Liu Q, Wang X, Gan S, Zhang X, Zhang J, Hu W, Chu M. Comparative Transcriptomics Reveal Key Sheep (Ovis aries) Hypothalamus LncRNAs that Affect Reproduction. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E152. [PMID: 30965601 PMCID: PMC6523726 DOI: 10.3390/ani9040152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The diverse functions of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which execute their functions mainly through modulating the activities of their target genes, have been have been widely studied for many years (including a number of studies involving lncRNAs in the ovary and uterus). Herein, for the first time, we detect lncRNAs in sheep hypothalami with FecB++ through RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) and identify a number of known and novel lncRNAs, with 622 and 809 found to be differentially expressed in polytocous sheep in the follicular phase (PF) vs. monotocous sheep in the follicular phase (MF) and polytocous sheep in the luteal phase (PL) vs. monotocous sheep in the luteal phase (ML), respectively. Then, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed based on the predicted target genes. The most highly enriched GO terms (at the molecular function level) included carbonyl reductase (NADPH), 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (NADP+), and prostaglandin-E2 9-reductase activity in PF vs. MF, and phosphatidylinositol-3,5-bisphosphate binding in PL vs. ML was associated with sheep fecundity. Interestingly, the phenomena of valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation in PL vs. ML, and valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis in PF vs. MF, were present. In addition, the interactome of lncRNA and its targets showed that MSTRG.26777 and its cis-targets ENSOARG00000013744, ENSOARG00000013700, and ENSOARG00000013777, and MSTRG.105228 and its target WNT7A may participate in the sheep reproductive process at the hypothalamus level. Significantly, MSTRG.95128 and its cis-target Forkhead box L1 (FOXG1) were shown to be upregulated in PF vs. MF but downregulated in PL vs. ML. All of these results may be attributed to discoveries of new candidate genes and pathways related to sheep reproduction, and they may provide new views for understanding sheep reproduction without the effects of the FecB mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangbiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Jishun Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei 230031, China.
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Shangquan Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi 832000, China.
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China.
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China.
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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