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Palumbo S, Palumbo D, Cirillo G, Giurato G, Aiello F, Miraglia Del Giudice E, Grandone A. Methylome analysis in girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty. Clin Epigenetics 2024; 16:82. [PMID: 38909248 PMCID: PMC11193236 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-024-01683-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic and environmental factors are implicated in many developmental processes. Recent evidence, however, has suggested that epigenetic changes may also influence the onset of puberty or the susceptibility to a wide range of diseases later in life. The present study aims to investigate changes in genomic DNA methylation profiles associated with pubertal onset analyzing human peripheral blood leukocytes from three different groups of subjects: 19 girls with central precocious puberty (CPP), 14 healthy prepubertal girls matched by age and 13 healthy pubertal girls matched by pubertal stage. For this purpose, the comparisons were performed between pre- and pubertal controls to identify changes in normal pubertal transition and CPP versus pre- and pubertal controls. RESULTS Analysis of methylation changes associated with normal pubertal transition identified 1006 differentially methylated CpG sites, 86% of them were found to be hypermethylated in prepubertal controls. Some of these CpG sites reside in genes associated with the age of menarche or transcription factors involved in the process of pubertal development. Analysis of methylome profiles in CPP patients showed 65% and 55% hypomethylated CpG sites compared with prepubertal and pubertal controls, respectively. In addition, interestingly, our results revealed the presence of 43 differentially methylated genes coding for zinc finger (ZNF) proteins. Gene ontology and IPA analysis performed in the three groups studied revealed significant enrichment of them in some pathways related to neuronal communication (semaphorin and gustation pathways), estrogens action, some cancers (particularly breast and ovarian) or metabolism (particularly sirtuin). CONCLUSIONS The different methylation profiles of girls with normal and precocious puberty indicate that regulation of the pubertal process in humans is associated with specific epigenetic changes. Differentially methylated genes include ZNF genes that may play a role in developmental control. In addition, our data highlight changes in the methylation status of genes involved in signaling pathways that determine the migration and function of GnRH neurons and the onset of metabolic and neoplastic diseases that may be associated with CPP in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Palumbo
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Domenico Palumbo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry SMS, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Grazia Cirillo
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry SMS, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Francesca Aiello
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Miraglia Del Giudice
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Grandone
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
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Wang H, Yu H, Li Q. Integrative analysis of single-nucleus RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq reveals germline cells development dynamics and niches in the Pacific oyster gonad. iScience 2024; 27:109499. [PMID: 38571762 PMCID: PMC10987912 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109499] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis drives the maturation of germ cell precursors into functional gametes, facilitated by interactions with the niche environment. However, the molecular mechanisms, especially in invertebrates, remain incompletely understood. In this study, the gonadal microenvironment and gametogenic processes in the Pacific oyster, a model for diffuse gonadal organization and periodic gametogenesis, are investigated. We combine single-nucleus RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq to analyze gonadal microenvironments in oysters. Twenty-three male and nineteen female gonadal cell clusters are identified, revealing four male and three female germ cell types, alongside follicular cells in females and Sertoli/Leydig cells in males. The NOTCH and BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) signaling pathways play a significant role in the male germline niche, suggesting similarities with mammalian germ cell microenvironment. This study offers valuable insights into germ cell developmental transitions and microenvironmental characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Qi Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Marine Germplasm Resources and Breeding Engineering, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
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3
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Amato E, Taroc EZM, Forni PE. Illuminating the terminal nerve: Uncovering the link between GnRH-1 neuron and olfactory development. J Comp Neurol 2024; 532:e25599. [PMID: 38488687 PMCID: PMC10958589 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
During embryonic development, the olfactory placode (OP) generates migratory neurons, including olfactory pioneer neurons, cells of the terminal nerve (TN), gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons, and other uncharacterized neurons. Pioneer neurons from the OP induce olfactory bulb (OB) morphogenesis. In mice, GnRH-1 neurons appear in the olfactory system around mid-gestation and migrate via the TN axons to different brain regions. The GnRH-1 neurons are crucial in controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Kallmann syndrome is characterized by impaired olfactory system development, defective OBs, secretion of GnRH-1, and infertility. The precise mechanistic link between the olfactory system and GnRH-1 development remains unclear. Studies in humans and mice highlight the importance of the prokineticin-2/prokineticin-receptor-2 (Prokr2) signaling pathway in OB morphogenesis and GnRH-1 neuronal migration. Prokr2 loss-of-function mutations can cause Kallmann syndrome (KS), and hence the Prokr2 signaling pathway represents a unique model to decipher the olfactory/GnRH-1 connection. We discovered that Prokr2 is expressed in the TN neurons during the critical period of GnRH-1 neuron formation, migration, and induction of OB morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified that the TN is formed by neurons distinct from the olfactory neurons. The TN neurons express multiple genes associated with KS. Our study suggests that the aberrant development of pioneer/TN neurons might cause the KS spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Amato
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Ed Zandro M. Taroc
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Paolo E. Forni
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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Amato E, Taroc EZM, Forni PE. Illuminating the Terminal Nerve: Uncovering the Link between GnRH-1 and Olfactory Development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.31.555770. [PMID: 37693459 PMCID: PMC10491181 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.31.555770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
During embryonic development, the olfactory placode (OP) generates migratory neurons, including olfactory pioneer neurons, cells of the terminal nerve (TN), Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons, and other uncharacterized neurons. Pioneer neurons from the olfactory placode induce olfactory bulb morphogenesis. In mice, GnRH-1 neurons appear in the olfactory system around mid-gestation and migrate via the terminal nerve axons to different brain regions. The GnRH-1 neurons are crucial in controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Kallmann syndrome is characterized by impaired olfactory system development, defective olfactory bulbs, defective secretion of GnRH-1, and infertility. The precise mechanistic link between the olfactory system and GnRH-1 development remains unclear. Studies in humans and mice highlight the importance of the Prokineticin-2/Prokineticin-Receptor-2 (Prokr2) signaling pathway in olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH-1 neuronal migration. Prokr2 loss-of-function mutations can cause Kallmann syndrome, and hence the Prokr2 signaling pathway represents a unique model to decipher the olfactory/GnRH-1 connection. We discovered that Prokr2 is expressed in the TN neurons during the critical period of GnRH-1 neuron formation, migration, and induction of olfactory bulb morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified that the TN is formed by neurons that are distinct from the olfactory neurons. The TN neurons express multiple genes associated with KS. Our study suggests that the aberrant development of pioneer/TN neurons might cause the KS spectrum. Key Points 1) Pioneer or terminal nerve neurons play a crucial role in initiating the development of the olfactory bulbs. We found that the Prokineticin Receptor-2 gene, associated with Kallmann syndrome, is expressed by the olfactory pioneer/terminal nerve neurons.2) We genetically traced, isolated, and conducted Single-cell RNA sequencing on terminal nerve neurons of rodents. This analysis revealed a significant enrichment of gene expression related to Kallmann syndrome.3) Our study indicates that the investigation of Pioneer/terminal nerve neurons should be a pivotal focal point for comprehending developmental defects affecting olfactory and GnRH-1 systems.
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Lippincott MF, Xu W, Smith AA, Miao X, Lafont A, Shennib O, Farley GJ, Sabbagh R, Delaney A, Stamou M, Plummer L, Salnikov K, Georgopoulos NA, Mericq V, Quinton R, Mau-Them FT, Nambot S, Hamad A, Brittain H, Tooze RS, Calpena E, Wilkie AOM, Willems M, Crowley WF, Balasubramanian R, Lamarche-Vane N, Davis EE, Seminara SB. The p190 RhoGAPs, ARHGAP35, and ARHGAP5 are implicated in GnRH neuronal development: Evidence from patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, zebrafish, and in vitro GAP activity assay. Genet Med 2022; 24:2501-2515. [PMID: 36178483 PMCID: PMC9730938 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to identify novel genes for idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH). METHODS A cohort of 1387 probands with IHH underwent exome sequencing and de novo, familial, and cohort-wide investigations. Functional studies were performed on 2 p190 Rho GTPase-activating proteins (p190 RhoGAP), ARHGAP35 and ARHGAP5, which involved in vivo modeling in larval zebrafish and an in vitro p190A-GAP activity assay. RESULTS Rare protein-truncating variants (PTVs; n = 5) and missense variants in the RhoGAP domain (n = 7) in ARHGAP35 were identified in IHH cases (rare variant enrichment: PTV [unadjusted P = 3.1E-06] and missense [adjusted P = 4.9E-03] vs controls). Zebrafish modeling using gnrh3:egfp phenotype assessment showed that mutant larvae with deficient arhgap35a, the predominant ARHGAP35 paralog in the zebrafish brain, display decreased GnRH3-GFP+ neuronal area, a readout for IHH. In vitro GAP activity studies showed that 1 rare missense variant [ARHGAP35 p.(Arg1284Trp)] had decreased GAP activity. Rare PTVs (n = 2) also were discovered in ARHGAP5, a paralog of ARHGAP35; however, arhgap5 zebrafish mutants did not display significant GnRH3-GFP+ abnormalities. CONCLUSION This study identified ARHGAP35 as a new autosomal dominant genetic driver for IHH and ARHGAP5 as a candidate gene for IHH. These observations suggest a novel role for the p190 RhoGAP proteins in GnRH neuronal development and integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Abigail A Smith
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Xinyu Miao
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Agathe Lafont
- Center for Human Disease Modeling, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Omar Shennib
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Gordon J Farley
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Riwa Sabbagh
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Angela Delaney
- Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Maria Stamou
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Lacey Plummer
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Kathryn Salnikov
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Neoklis A Georgopoulos
- Division of Endocrinology-Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Rio-Patras, Greece
| | - Veronica Mericq
- Instituto de Investigaciones Materno Infantil (IDIMI), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Richard Quinton
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Frederic Tran Mau-Them
- Functional Unit 6254 Innovation in Genomic Diagnosis of Rare Diseases, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Sophie Nambot
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares « Anomalies du Développement Et Syndrome Malformatifs » de L'Est, Hôpital D'Enfants, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Asma Hamad
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Brittain
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca S Tooze
- Clinical Genetics Group, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Eduardo Calpena
- Clinical Genetics Group, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew O M Wilkie
- Clinical Genetics Group, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marjolaine Willems
- Medical Genetic Department for Rare Diseases and Personalized Medicine, Reference Center AD SOOR, AnDDI-RARE, Groupe DI, Inserm U1298, INM, Montpellier University, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Nathalie Lamarche-Vane
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Erica E Davis
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Mohamed AR, Naval-Sanchez M, Menzies M, Evans B, King H, Reverter A, Kijas JW. Leveraging transcriptome and epigenome landscapes to infer regulatory networks during the onset of sexual maturation. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:413. [PMID: 35650521 PMCID: PMC9158274 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08514-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite sexual development being ubiquitous to vertebrates, the molecular mechanisms underpinning this fundamental transition remain largely undocumented in many organisms. We designed a time course experiment that successfully sampled the period when Atlantic salmon commence their trajectory towards sexual maturation. Results Through deep RNA sequencing, we discovered key genes and pathways associated with maturation in the pituitary-ovarian axis. Analyzing DNA methylomes revealed a bias towards hypermethylation in ovary that implicated maturation-related genes. Co-analysis of DNA methylome and gene expression changes revealed chromatin remodeling genes and key transcription factors were both significantly hypermethylated and upregulated in the ovary during the onset of maturation. We also observed changes in chromatin state landscapes that were strongly correlated with fundamental remodeling of gene expression in liver. Finally, a multiomic integrated analysis revealed regulatory networks and identified hub genes including TRIM25 gene (encoding the estrogen-responsive finger protein) as a putative key regulator in the pituitary that underwent a 60-fold change in connectivity during the transition to maturation. Conclusion The study successfully documented transcriptome and epigenome changes that involved key genes and pathways acting in the pituitary – ovarian axis. Using a Systems Biology approach, we identified hub genes and their associated networks deemed crucial for onset of maturation. The results provide a comprehensive view of the spatiotemporal changes involved in a complex trait and opens the door to future efforts aiming to manipulate puberty in an economically important aquaculture species. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08514-8.
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Prevot V, Sharif A. The polygamous GnRH neuron: Astrocytic and tanycytic communication with a neuroendocrine neuronal population. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13104. [PMID: 35233849 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To ensure the survival of the species, hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits controlling fertility, which converge onto neurons producing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), must respond to fluctuating physiological conditions by undergoing rapid and reversible structural and functional changes. However, GnRH neurons do not act alone, but through reciprocal interactions with multiple hypothalamic cell populations, including several glial and endothelial cell types. For instance, it has long been known that in the hypothalamic median eminence, where GnRH axons terminate and release their neurohormone into the pituitary portal blood circulation, morphological plasticity displayed by distal processes of tanycytes modifies their relationship with adjacent neurons as well as the spatial properties of the neurohemal junction. These alterations not only regulate the capacity of GnRH neurons to release their neurohormone, but also the activation of discrete non-neuronal pathways that mediate feedback by peripheral hormones onto the hypothalamus. Additionally, a recent breakthrough has demonstrated that GnRH neurons themselves orchestrate the establishment of their neuroendocrine circuitry during postnatal development by recruiting an entourage of newborn astrocytes that escort them into adulthood and, via signalling through gliotransmitters such as prostaglandin E2, modulate their activity and GnRH release. Intriguingly, several environmental and behavioural toxins perturb these neuron-glia interactions and consequently, reproductive maturation and fertility. Deciphering the communication between GnRH neurons and other neural cell types constituting hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits is thus critical both to understanding physiological processes such as puberty, oestrous cyclicity and aging, and to developing novel therapeutic strategies for dysfunctions of these processes, including the effects of endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Prevot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, FHU 1000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Ariane Sharif
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, FHU 1000 Days for Health, Lille, France
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Moore A, Chinnaiya K, Kim DW, Brown S, Stewart I, Robins S, Dowsett GKC, Muir C, Travaglio M, Lewis JE, Ebling F, Blackshaw S, Furley A, Placzek M. Loss of Function of the Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule NrCAM Regulates Differentiation, Proliferation and Neurogenesis in Early Postnatal Hypothalamic Tanycytes. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:832961. [PMID: 35464310 PMCID: PMC9022636 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.832961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic tanycytes are neural stem and progenitor cells, but little is known of how they are regulated. Here we provide evidence that the cell adhesion molecule, NrCAM, regulates tanycytes in the adult niche. NrCAM is strongly expressed in adult mouse tanycytes. Immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization analysis revealed that NrCAM loss of function leads to both a reduced number of tanycytes and reduced expression of tanycyte-specific cell markers, along with a small reduction in tyrosine hydroxylase-positive arcuate neurons. Similar analyses of NrCAM mutants at E16 identify few changes in gene expression or cell composition, indicating that NrCAM regulates tanycytes, rather than early embryonic hypothalamic development. Neurosphere and organotypic assays support the idea that NrCAM governs cellular homeostasis. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) shows that tanycyte-specific genes, including a number that are implicated in thyroid hormone metabolism, show reduced expression in the mutant mouse. However, the mild tanycyte depletion and loss of markers observed in NrCAM-deficient mice were associated with only a subtle metabolic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Moore
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Kavitha Chinnaiya
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Dong Won Kim
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sarah Brown
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Iain Stewart
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Robins
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina K. C. Dowsett
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Muir
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Travaglio
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jo E. Lewis
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Fran Ebling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrew Furley
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Marysia Placzek
- School of Biosciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Welch BA, Cho HJ, Ucakturk SA, Farmer SM, Cetinkaya S, Abaci A, Akkus G, Simsek E, Kotan LD, Turan I, Gurbuz F, Yuksel B, Wray S, Topaloglu AK. PLXNB1 mutations in the etiology of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13103. [PMID: 35170806 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13103] [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: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) comprises a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by pubertal failure caused by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency. Genetic factors involved in semaphorin/plexin signaling have been identified in patients with IHH. PlexinB1, a member of the plexin family receptors, serves as the receptor for semaphorin 4D (Sema4D). In mice, perturbations in Sema4D/PlexinB1 signaling leads to improper GnRH development, highlighting the importance of investigating PlexinB1 mutations in IHH families. In total, 336 IHH patients (normosmic IHH, n = 293 and Kallmann syndrome, n = 43) from 290 independent families were included in the present study. Six PLXNB1 rare sequence variants (p.N361S, p.V608A, p.R636C, p.V672A, p.R1031H, and p.C1318R) are described in eight normosmic IHH patients from seven independent families. These variants were examined using bioinformatic modeling and compared to mutants reported in PLXNA1. Based on these analyses, the variant p.R1031H was assayed for alterations in cell morphology, PlexinB1 expression, and migration using a GnRH cell line and Boyden chambers. Experiments showed reduced membrane expression and impaired migration in cells expressing this variant compared to the wild-type. Our results provide clinical, genetic, molecular/cellular, and modeling evidence to implicate variants in PLXNB1 in the etiology of IHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley A Welch
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Hyun-Ju Cho
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Seyit Ahmet Ucakturk
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Stephen Matthew Farmer
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Semra Cetinkaya
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Dr. Sami Ulus Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatric Health and Disease Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Abaci
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gamze Akkus
- Division of Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Enver Simsek
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osman Gazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Leman Damla Kotan
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ihsan Turan
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fatih Gurbuz
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Bilgin Yuksel
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - A Kemal Topaloglu
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
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10
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PASSARELLI A, LETTIERI A, DEMIRCI TN, MAGNI P. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-secreting neuron development and function: an update. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2022; 47:58-69. [DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.22.03683-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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11
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Oleari R, Massa V, Cariboni A, Lettieri A. The Differential Roles for Neurodevelopmental and Neuroendocrine Genes in Shaping GnRH Neuron Physiology and Deficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9425. [PMID: 34502334 PMCID: PMC8431607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are hypothalamic neuroendocrine cells that control sexual reproduction. During embryonic development, GnRH neurons migrate from the nose to the hypothalamus, where they receive inputs from several afferent neurons, following the axonal scaffold patterned by nasal nerves. Each step of GnRH neuron development depends on the orchestrated action of several molecules exerting specific biological functions. Mutations in genes encoding for these essential molecules may cause Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (CHH), a rare disorder characterized by GnRH deficiency, delayed puberty and infertility. Depending on their action in the GnRH neuronal system, CHH causative genes can be divided into neurodevelopmental and neuroendocrine genes. The CHH genetic complexity, combined with multiple inheritance patterns, results in an extreme phenotypic variability of CHH patients. In this review, we aim at providing a comprehensive and updated description of the genes thus far associated with CHH, by dissecting their biological relevance in the GnRH system and their functional relevance underlying CHH pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Oleari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Valentina Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Antonella Lettieri
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy
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12
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Delli V, Silva MSB, Prévot V, Chachlaki K. The KiNG of reproduction: Kisspeptin/ nNOS interactions shaping hypothalamic GnRH release. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 532:111302. [PMID: 33964320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the master regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and therefore of fertility and reproduction. The release pattern of GnRH by the hypothalamus includes both pulses and surges. However, despite a considerable body of evidence in support of a determinant role for kisspeptin, the mechanisms regulating a GnRH pulse and surge remain a topic of debate. In this review we challenge the view of kisspeptin as an absolute "monarch", and instead present the idea of a Kisspeptin-nNOS-GnRH or "KiNG" network that is responsible for generating the "GnRH pulse" and "GnRH surge". In particular, the neuromodulator nitric oxide (NO) has opposite effects to kisspeptin on GnRH secretion in many respects, acting as the Yin to kisspeptin's Yang and creating a dynamic system in which kisspeptin provides the "ON" signal, promoting GnRH release, while NO mediates the "OFF" signal, acting as a tonic brake on GnRH secretion. This interplay between an activator and an inhibitor, which is in turn fine-tuned by the gonadal steroid environment, thus leads to the generation of GnRH pulses and surges and is crucial for the proper development and function of the reproductive axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Delli
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Mauro S B Silva
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Vincent Prévot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Konstantina Chachlaki
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France; University Research Institute of Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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13
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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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14
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Kanth SM, Gairhe S, Torabi-Parizi P. The Role of Semaphorins and Their Receptors in Innate Immune Responses and Clinical Diseases of Acute Inflammation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:672441. [PMID: 34012455 PMCID: PMC8126651 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.672441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Semaphorins are a group of proteins that have been studied extensively for their critical function in neuronal development. They have been shown to regulate airway development, tumorigenesis, autoimmune diseases, and the adaptive immune response. Notably, emerging literature describes the role of immunoregulatory semaphorins and their receptors, plexins and neuropilins, as modulators of innate immunity and diseases defined by acute injury to the kidneys, abdomen, heart and lungs. In this review we discuss the pathogenic functions of semaphorins in clinical conditions of acute inflammation, including sepsis and acute lung injury, with a focus on regulation of the innate immune response as well as potential future therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya M Kanth
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Salina Gairhe
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Parizad Torabi-Parizi
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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15
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Lettieri A, Oleari R, Paganoni AJJ, Gervasini C, Massa V, Fantin A, Cariboni A. Semaphorin Regulation by the Chromatin Remodeler CHD7: An Emerging Genetic Interaction Shaping Neural Cells and Neural Crest in Development and Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:638674. [PMID: 33869187 PMCID: PMC8047133 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.638674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CHD7 is a chromatin remodeler protein that controls gene expression via the formation of multi-protein complexes with specific transcription factors. During development, CHD7 controls several differentiation programs, mainly by acting on neural progenitors and neural crest (NC) cells. Thus, its roles range from the central nervous system to the peripheral nervous system and the organs colonized by NC cells, including the heart. Accordingly, mutated CHD7 is linked to CHARGE syndrome, which is characterized by several neuronal dysfunctions and by malformations of NC-derived/populated organs. Altered CHD7 has also been associated with different neoplastic transformations. Interestingly, recent evidence revealed that semaphorins, a class of molecules involved in developmental and pathological processes similar to those controlled by CHD7, are regulated by CHD7 in a context-specific manner. In this article, we will review the recent insights that support the existence of genetic interactions between these pathways, both during developmental processes and cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Lettieri
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Oleari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alyssa J J Paganoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Gervasini
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Massa
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fantin
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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16
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Millar AC, Faghfoury H, Bieniek JM. Genetics of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:1401-1409. [PMID: 33850776 PMCID: PMC8039576 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2020.03.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Male congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a heterogenous group of genetic disorders that cause impairment in the production or action of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). These defects result in dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormone axis, leading to low testosterone levels and impaired fertility. Genetic testing techniques have expanded our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms contributing to CHH including over 30 genes to date implicated in the development of CHH. In some cases, non-reproductive signs or symptoms can give clues as to the putative genetic etiology, but many cases remain undiagnosed with less than 50% identified with a specific gene defect. This leads to many patients labelled as “idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism”. Medical and family history as well as physical exam and laboratory features can aid in the identification of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) that is associated with specific medical syndromes or associated with other pituitary hormonal deficiencies. Genetic testing strategies are moving away from the classic practice of testing for only a few of the most commonly affected genes and instead utilizing next generation sequencing techniques that allow testing of numerous potential gene targets simultaneously. Treatment of CHH is dependent on the individual’s desire to preserve fertility and commonly include human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) to stimulate testosterone production and spermatogenesis. In situations where fertility is not desired, testosterone replacement therapies are widely offered in order to maintain virilization and sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam C Millar
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Mount Sinai Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hanna Faghfoury
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Fred A Litwin and Family Centre in Genetic Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jared M Bieniek
- Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute, Hartford HealthCare, Hartford, CT, USA
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17
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Cangiano B, Swee DS, Quinton R, Bonomi M. Genetics of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: peculiarities and phenotype of an oligogenic disease. Hum Genet 2020; 140:77-111. [PMID: 32200437 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A genetic basis of congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can be defined in almost 50% of cases, albeit not necessarily the complete genetic basis. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques have led to the discovery of a great number of loci, each of which has illuminated our understanding of human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, either in respect of their embryonic development or their neuroendocrine regulation as the "pilot light" of human reproduction. However, because each new gene linked to CHH only seems to underpin another small percentage of total patient cases, we are still far from achieving a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of CHH. Patients have generally not benefited from advances in genetics in respect of novel therapies. In most cases, even genetic counselling is limited by issues of apparent variability in expressivity and penetrance that are likely underpinned by oligogenicity in respect of known and unknown genes. Robust genotype-phenotype relationships can generally only be established for individuals who are homozygous, hemizygous or compound heterozygotes for the same gene of variant alleles that are predicted to be deleterious. While certain genes are purely associated with normosmic CHH (nCHH) some purely with the anosmic form (Kallmann syndrome-KS), other genes can be associated with both nCHH and KS-sometimes even within the same kindred. Even though the anticipated genetic overlap between CHH and constitutional delay in growth and puberty (CDGP) has not materialised, previously unanticipated genetic relationships have emerged, comprising conditions of combined (or multiple) pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and CHARGE syndrome. In this review, we report the current evidence in relation to phenotype and genetic peculiarities regarding 60 genes whose loss-of-function variants can disrupt the central regulation of reproduction at many levels: impairing GnRH neurons migration, differentiation or activation; disrupting neuroendocrine control of GnRH secretion; preventing GnRH neuron migration or function and/or gonadotropin secretion and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - Du Soon Swee
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Richard Quinton
- Endocrine Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK. .,Translational and Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK.
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20100, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy.
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18
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Cho HJ, Shan Y, Whittington NC, Wray S. Nasal Placode Development, GnRH Neuronal Migration and Kallmann Syndrome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:121. [PMID: 31355196 PMCID: PMC6637222 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of Gonadotropin releasing hormone-1 (GnRH) neurons is important for a functional reproduction system in vertebrates. Disruption of GnRH results in hypogonadism and if accompanied by anosmia is termed Kallmann Syndrome (KS). From their origin in the nasal placode, GnRH neurons migrate along the olfactory-derived vomeronasal axons to the nasal forebrain junction and then turn caudally into the developing forebrain. Although research on the origin of GnRH neurons, their migration and genes associated with KS has identified multiple factors that influence development of this system, several aspects still remain unclear. This review discusses development of the olfactory system, factors that regulate GnRH neuron formation and development of the olfactory system, migration of the GnRH neurons from the nose into the brain, and mutations in humans with KS that result from disruption of normal GnRH/olfactory systems development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ju Cho
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yufei Shan
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Niteace C Whittington
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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19
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Gil V, Del Río JA. Functions of Plexins/Neuropilins and Their Ligands during Hippocampal Development and Neurodegeneration. Cells 2019; 8:E206. [PMID: 30823454 PMCID: PMC6468495 DOI: 10.3390/cells8030206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that molecules, receptors, and signaling mechanisms involved in vascular development also play crucial roles during the development of the nervous system. Among others, specific semaphorins and their receptors (neuropilins and plexins) have, in recent years, attracted the attention of researchers due to their pleiotropy of functions. Their functions, mainly associated with control of the cellular cytoskeleton, include control of cell migration, cell morphology, and synapse remodeling. Here, we will focus on their roles in the hippocampal formation that plays a crucial role in memory and learning as it is a prime target during neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Gil
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - José Antonio Del Río
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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20
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Prevot V, Dehouck B, Sharif A, Ciofi P, Giacobini P, Clasadonte J. The Versatile Tanycyte: A Hypothalamic Integrator of Reproduction and Energy Metabolism. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:333-368. [PMID: 29351662 DOI: 10.1210/er.2017-00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The fertility and survival of an individual rely on the ability of the periphery to promptly, effectively, and reproducibly communicate with brain neural networks that control reproduction, food intake, and energy homeostasis. Tanycytes, a specialized glial cell type lining the wall of the third ventricle in the median eminence of the hypothalamus, appear to act as the linchpin of these processes by dynamically controlling the secretion of neuropeptides into the portal vasculature by hypothalamic neurons and regulating blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid exchanges, both processes that depend on the ability of these cells to adapt their morphology to the physiological state of the individual. In addition to their barrier properties, tanycytes possess the ability to sense blood glucose levels, and play a fundamental and active role in shuttling circulating metabolic signals to hypothalamic neurons that control food intake. Moreover, accumulating data suggest that, in keeping with their putative descent from radial glial cells, tanycytes are endowed with neural stem cell properties and may respond to dietary or reproductive cues by modulating hypothalamic neurogenesis. Tanycytes could thus constitute the missing link in the loop connecting behavior, hormonal changes, signal transduction, central neuronal activation and, finally, behavior again. In this article, we will examine these recent advances in the understanding of tanycytic plasticity and function in the hypothalamus and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We will also discuss the putative involvement and therapeutic potential of hypothalamic tanycytes in metabolic and fertility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Prevot
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France
| | - Bénédicte Dehouck
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France
| | - Ariane Sharif
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France
| | - Philippe Ciofi
- Inserm, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France.,Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France
| | - Jerome Clasadonte
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France.,University of Lille, FHU 1000 Days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille, France
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21
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Butti R, Kumar TV, Nimma R, Kundu GC. Impact of semaphorin expression on prognostic characteristics in breast cancer. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2018; 10:79-88. [PMID: 29910635 PMCID: PMC5987790 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s135753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Aberrant regulation of various growth factors, cytokines, and other proteins and their receptors in cancer cells drives the activation of various oncogenic signaling pathways that lead to cancer progression. Semaphorins are a class of proteins which are differentially expressed in various types of cancer including breast cancer. Earlier, these proteins were known to have a major function in the nerve cell adhesion, migration, and development of the central nervous system. However, their role in the regulation of several aspects of tumor progression has eventually emerged. There are over 30 genes encoding the semaphorins, which are divided into eight subclasses. It has been reported that some members of semaphorin classes are antiangiogenic and antimetastatic in nature, whereas others act as proangiogenic and prometastatic genes. Because of their differential expression and role in angiogenesis and metastasis, semaphorins emerged as one of the important prognostic factors for appraising breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Butti
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Totakura Vs Kumar
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Ramakrishna Nimma
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Gopal C Kundu
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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22
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Abstract
Semaphorins are extracellular signaling proteins that are essential for the development and maintenance of many organs and tissues. The more than 20-member semaphorin protein family includes secreted, transmembrane and cell surface-attached proteins with diverse structures, each characterized by a single cysteine-rich extracellular sema domain, the defining feature of the family. Early studies revealed that semaphorins function as axon guidance molecules, but it is now understood that semaphorins are key regulators of morphology and motility in many different cell types including those that make up the nervous, cardiovascular, immune, endocrine, hepatic, renal, reproductive, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems, as well as in cancer cells. Semaphorin signaling occurs predominantly through Plexin receptors and results in changes to the cytoskeletal and adhesive machinery that regulate cellular morphology. While much remains to be learned about the mechanisms underlying the effects of semaphorins, exciting work has begun to reveal how semaphorin signaling is fine-tuned through different receptor complexes and other mechanisms to achieve specific outcomes in various cellular contexts and physiological systems. These and future studies will lead to a more complete understanding of semaphorin-mediated development and to a greater understanding of how these proteins function in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Taylor Alto
- Departments of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Jonathan R Terman
- Departments of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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23
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Wang Y, Alahdal M, Ye J, Jing L, Liu X, Chen H, Jin L, Cao R. Inhibition of RM-1 prostate carcinoma and eliciting robust immune responses in the mouse model by using VEGF-M 2-GnRH 3-hinge-MVP vaccine. Genes Immun 2018; 20:245-254. [PMID: 29362508 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-017-0005-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
GnRH and VEGF have been investigated as prostate carcinoma enhancers that support tumor spread and progression. Although both have documented roles in prostate carcinoma and many cancer types, the weak immunogenicity of these peptides has remained a major challenge for use in immunotherapy. Here, we describe a novel strategy to inhibit GnRH and VEGF production and assess the effect on the immune responses against these hormones using the RM-1 prostate cancer model. We designed a novel recombinant fusion protein which combined GnRH and VEGF as a vaccine against this tumor. The newly constructed fusion protein hVEGF121-M2-GnRH3-hinge-MVP contains the human vascular endothelial growth factor (hVEGF121) and three copies of GnRH in sequential linear alignment and T helper epitope MVP as an immunogenic vaccine. The effectiveness of the vaccine in eliciting an immune response and attenuating the prostate tumor growth was evaluated. Results showed that administration of a new vaccine effectively elicited humoral and cellular immune responses. We found that, a novel fusion protein, hVEGF121-M2-GnRH3-hinge-MVP, effectively inhibited growth of RM-1 prostate model and effectively promoted immune response. In conclusion, hVEGF121-M2-GnRH3-hinge-MVP is an effective dual mechanism tumor vaccine that limits RM-1 prostate growth. This vaccine may be a promising strategy for the treatment of hormone refractory prostate malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Minigene Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, TongjiaXiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Murad Alahdal
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Tongjia Xiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jia Ye
- Department of Biochemistry, Minigene Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, TongjiaXiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Liangliang Jing
- Department of Biochemistry, Minigene Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, TongjiaXiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiaoxin Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Tongjia Xiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, Minigene Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, TongjiaXiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Liang Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Tongjia Xiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Rongyue Cao
- Department of Biochemistry, Minigene Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, TongjiaXiang 24, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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24
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Clasadonte J, Prevot V. The special relationship: glia-neuron interactions in the neuroendocrine hypothalamus. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2018; 14:25-44. [PMID: 29076504 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2017.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Natural fluctuations in physiological conditions require adaptive responses involving rapid and reversible structural and functional changes in the hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits that control homeostasis. Here, we discuss the data that implicate hypothalamic glia in the control of hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits, specifically neuron-glia interactions in the regulation of neurosecretion as well as neuronal excitability. Mechanistically, the morphological plasticity displayed by distal processes of astrocytes, pituicytes and tanycytes modifies the geometry and diffusion properties of the extracellular space. These changes alter the relationship between glial cells of the hypothalamus and adjacent neuronal elements, especially at specialized intersections such as synapses and neurohaemal junctions. The structural alterations in turn lead to functional plasticity that alters the release and spread of neurotransmitters, neuromodulators and gliotransmitters, as well as the activity of discrete glial signalling pathways that mediate feedback by peripheral signals to the hypothalamus. An understanding of the contributions of these and other non-neuronal cell types to hypothalamic neuroendocrine function is thus critical both to understand physiological processes such as puberty, the maintenance of bodily homeostasis and ageing and to develop novel therapeutic strategies for dysfunctions of these processes, such as infertility and metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Clasadonte
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, U1172, Bâtiment Biserte, 1 Place de Verdun, 59045, Lille, Cedex, France
- University of Lille, FHU 1000 days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille 59000, France
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, U1172, Bâtiment Biserte, 1 Place de Verdun, 59045, Lille, Cedex, France
- University of Lille, FHU 1000 days for Health, School of Medicine, Lille 59000, France
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25
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Taroc EZM, Prasad A, Lin JM, Forni PE. The terminal nerve plays a prominent role in GnRH-1 neuronal migration independent from proper olfactory and vomeronasal connections to the olfactory bulbs. Biol Open 2017; 6:1552-1568. [PMID: 28970231 PMCID: PMC5665474 DOI: 10.1242/bio.029074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons (GnRH-1 ns) migrate from the developing olfactory pit into the hypothalamus during embryonic development. Migration of the GnRH-1 neurons is required for mammalian reproduction as these cells control release of gonadotropins from the anterior pituitary gland. Disturbances in GnRH-1 ns migration, GnRH-1 synthesis, secretion or signaling lead to varying degrees of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), which impairs pubertal onset and fertility. HH associated with congenital olfactory defects is clinically defined as Kallmann Syndrome (KS). The association of olfactory defects with HH in KS suggested a potential direct relationship between defective olfactory axonal routing, lack of olfactory bulbs (OBs) and aberrant GnRH-1 ns migration. However, it has never been experimentally proven that the formation of axonal connections of the olfactory/vomeronasal neurons to their functional targets are necessary for the migration of GnRH-1 ns to the hypothalamus. Loss-of-function of the Arx-1 homeobox gene leads to the lack of proper formation of the OBs with abnormal axonal termination of olfactory sensory neurons (
Yoshihara et al., 2005). Our data prove that correct development of the OBs and axonal connection of the olfactory/vomeronasal sensory neurons to the forebrain are not required for GnRH-1 ns migration, and suggest that the terminal nerve, which forms the GnRH-1 migratory scaffold, follows different guidance cues and differs in gene expression from olfactory/vomeronasal sensory neurons. Summary: Our work reveals that correct olfactory bulb development is not required for GnRH-1 neuronal migration. This study challenges the idea that GnRH-1 neuronal migration to the hypothalamus relies on correct routing of the olfactory and vomeronasal neurons and supports the existence of the TN in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ed Zandro M Taroc
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Aparna Prasad
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Jennifer M Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Paolo E Forni
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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26
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Takada H, Ibaragi S, Eguchi T, Okui T, Obata K, Masui M, Morisawa A, Takabatake K, Kawai H, Yoshioka N, Hassan NMM, Shimo T, Hu GF, Nagatsuka H, Sasaki A. Semaphorin 4D promotes bone invasion in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2017; 51:625-632. [PMID: 28656278 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) frequently invade the bones of the facial skeleton. Semaphorin 4D (Sema4D) is an axon guidance molecule produced by oligodendrocytes. Sema4D was also identified in the bone microenvironment and many cancer tissues including HNSCC. To date, however, the role of Sema4D in cancer-associated bone disease is still unknown. This is the first study to demonstrate the role of Sema4D in bone invasion of cancer. In the clinical tissue samples of bone lesion of HNSCC, Sema4D was detected at high levels, and its expression was correlated with insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) expression. In vitro experiments showed that IGF-I regulates Sema4D expression and Sema4D increased proliferation, migration and invasion in HNSCC cells. Sema4D also regulated the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor κβ ligand (RANKL) in osteoblasts, and this stimulated osteoclastgenesis. Furthermore, knockdown of Sema4D in HNSCC cells inhibited tumor growth and decreased the number of osteoclasts in a mouse xenograft model. Taken together, IGF-I-driven production of Sema4D in HNSCCs promotes osteoclastogenesis and bone invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Takada
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Soichiro Ibaragi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takanori Eguchi
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Okui
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kyoichi Obata
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Masanori Masui
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Ayaka Morisawa
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kiyofumi Takabatake
- Departments of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hotaka Kawai
- Departments of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Norie Yoshioka
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | | | - Tsuyoshi Shimo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Guo-Fu Hu
- Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hitoshi Nagatsuka
- Departments of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
| | - Akira Sasaki
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
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27
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Moloney EB, Hobo B, De Winter F, Verhaagen J. Expression of a Mutant SEMA3A Protein with Diminished Signalling Capacity Does Not Alter ALS-Related Motor Decline, or Confer Changes in NMJ Plasticity after BotoxA-Induced Paralysis of Male Gastrocnemic Muscle. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170314. [PMID: 28103314 PMCID: PMC5245795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Terminal Schwann cells (TSCs) are specialized cells that envelop the motor nerve terminal, and play a role in the maintenance and regeneration of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). The chemorepulsive protein semaphorin 3A (SEMA3A) is selectively up-regulated in TSCs on fast-fatigable muscle fibers following experimental denervation of the muscle (BotoxA-induced paralysis or crush injury to the sciatic nerve) or in the motor neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Re-expression of SEMA3A in this subset of TSCs is thought to play a role in the selective plasticity of nerve terminals as observed in ALS and following BotoxA-induced paralysis. Using a mouse model expressing a mutant SEMA3A with diminished signaling capacity, we studied the influence of SEMA3A signaling at the NMJ with two denervation paradigms; a motor neuron disease model (the G93A-hSOD1 ALS mouse line) and an injury model (BotoxA-induced paralysis). ALS mice that either expressed 1 or 2 mutant SEMA3A alleles demonstrated no difference in ALS-induced decline in motor behavior. We also investigated the effects of BotoxA-induced paralysis on the sprouting capacity of NMJs in the K108N-SEMA3A mutant mouse, and observed no change in the differential neuronal plasticity found at NMJs on fast-fatigable or slow muscle fibers due to the presence of the SEMA3A mutant protein. Our data may be explained by the residual repulsive activity of the mutant SEMA3A, or it may imply that SEMA3A alone is not a key component of the molecular signature affecting NMJ plasticity in ALS or BotoxA-induced paralysis. Interestingly, we did observe a sex difference in motor neuron sprouting behavior after BotoxA-induced paralysis in WT mice which we speculate may be an important factor in the sex dimorphic differences seen in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth B. Moloney
- Department of Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Hobo
- Department of Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fred De Winter
- Department of Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Department of Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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28
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Sun T, Yang L, Kaur H, Pestel J, Looso M, Nolte H, Krasel C, Heil D, Krishnan RK, Santoni MJ, Borg JP, Bünemann M, Offermanns S, Swiercz JM, Worzfeld T. A reverse signaling pathway downstream of Sema4A controls cell migration via Scrib. J Cell Biol 2016; 216:199-215. [PMID: 28007914 PMCID: PMC5223600 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201602002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Semaphorins comprise a large family of ligands that regulate key cellular functions through their receptors, plexins. In this study, we show that the transmembrane semaphorin 4A (Sema4A) can also function as a receptor, rather than a ligand, and transduce signals triggered by the binding of Plexin-B1 through reverse signaling. Functionally, reverse Sema4A signaling regulates the migration of various cancer cells as well as dendritic cells. By combining mass spectrometry analysis with small interfering RNA screening, we identify the polarity protein Scrib as a downstream effector of Sema4A. We further show that binding of Plexin-B1 to Sema4A promotes the interaction of Sema4A with Scrib, thereby removing Scrib from its complex with the Rac/Cdc42 exchange factor βPIX and decreasing the activity of the small guanosine triphosphatase Rac1 and Cdc42. Our data unravel a role for Plexin-B1 as a ligand and Sema4A as a receptor and characterize a reverse signaling pathway downstream of Sema4A, which controls cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianliang Sun
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Lida Yang
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Harmandeep Kaur
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Jenny Pestel
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Mario Looso
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Hendrik Nolte
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Cornelius Krasel
- Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Biochemical-Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Heil
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Ramesh K Krishnan
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Marie-Josée Santoni
- Cell Polarity, Cell Signaling and Cancer, Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1068, 13009 Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13009 Marseille, France.,Aix-Marseille Université, 13284 Marseille, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7258, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Paul Borg
- Cell Polarity, Cell Signaling and Cancer, Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1068, 13009 Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13009 Marseille, France.,Aix-Marseille Université, 13284 Marseille, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7258, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Moritz Bünemann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Biochemical-Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Offermanns
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany.,Medical Faculty, University of Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jakub M Swiercz
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Worzfeld
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany .,Institute of Pharmacology, Biochemical-Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
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29
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Verlinden L, Vanderschueren D, Verstuyf A. Semaphorin signaling in bone. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 432:66-74. [PMID: 26365296 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Semaphorin molecules regulate cell adhesion and motility in a wide variety of cell types and are therefore involved in numerous processes including axon guidance, angiogenesis, cardiogenesis, tumor growth, and immune response. Increasing evidence points to a role of transmembrane, membrane-associated and soluble semaphorins during bone development as well as in the control of normal bone homeostasis. Within bone, semaphorins are implicated in the communication between different cell types by relaying signals in an autocrine or paracrine way. Semaphorins are not only involved in bone resorption but also in bone formation. Therefore, targeting semaphorin-induced signaling in bone may constitute an interesting new therapeutic strategy in osteoporosis. However, all the pioneering research on semaphorins is performed in mice and it remains to be established to what extent semaphorin signaling pathways are conserved between mice and men. In addition, knowledge of semaphorin signaling in bone mostly arises from loss/gain of function studies of one single semaphorin and/or receptor. However, different semaphorin molecules are co-expressed in bone and their signaling pathways are likely to interact in a complex and coherent way that needs proper understanding before targeting semaphorin signaling can be therapeutically exploited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieve Verlinden
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Dirk Vanderschueren
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Annemieke Verstuyf
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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30
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Wood SH, Christian HC, Miedzinska K, Saer BRC, Johnson M, Paton B, Yu L, McNeilly J, Davis JRE, McNeilly AS, Burt DW, Loudon ASI. Binary Switching of Calendar Cells in the Pituitary Defines the Phase of the Circannual Cycle in Mammals. Curr Biol 2015; 25:2651-62. [PMID: 26412130 PMCID: PMC4612467 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Persistent free-running circannual (approximately year-long) rhythms have evolved in animals to regulate hormone cycles, drive metabolic rhythms (including hibernation), and time annual reproduction. Recent studies have defined the photoperiodic input to this rhythm, wherein melatonin acts on thyrotroph cells of the pituitary pars tuberalis (PT), leading to seasonal changes in the control of thyroid hormone metabolism in the hypothalamus. However, seasonal rhythms persist in constant conditions in many species in the absence of a changing photoperiod signal, leading to the generation of circannual cycles. It is not known which cells, tissues, and pathways generate these remarkable long-term rhythmic processes. We show that individual PT thyrotrophs can be in one of two binary states reflecting either a long (EYA3(+)) or short (CHGA(+)) photoperiod, with the relative proportion in each state defining the phase of the circannual cycle. We also show that a morphogenic cycle driven by the PT leads to extensive re-modeling of the PT and hypothalamus over the circannual cycle. We propose that the PT may employ a recapitulated developmental pathway to drive changes in morphology of tissues and cells. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that the circannual timer may reside within the PT thyrotroph and is encoded by a binary switch timing mechanism, which may regulate the generation of circannual neuroendocrine rhythms, leading to dynamic re-modeling of the hypothalamic interface. In summary, the PT-ventral hypothalamus now appears to be a prime structure involved in long-term rhythm generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shona H Wood
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Helen C Christian
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, Le Gros Clark Building, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Katarzyna Miedzinska
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PRG, UK
| | - Ben R C Saer
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Mark Johnson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, Le Gros Clark Building, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Bob Paton
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PRG, UK
| | - Le Yu
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PRG, UK
| | - Judith McNeilly
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Julian R E Davis
- Faculty of Medical and Human Science, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Alan S McNeilly
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - David W Burt
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PRG, UK.
| | - Andrew S I Loudon
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
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31
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Musumeci G, Castorina S, Castrogiovanni P, Loreto C, Leonardi R, Aiello FC, Magro G, Imbesi R. A journey through the pituitary gland: Development, structure and function, with emphasis on embryo-foetal and later development. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:355-66. [PMID: 25858531 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 12/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gland and the hypothalamus are morphologically and functionally associated in the endocrine and neuroendocrine control of other endocrine glands. They therefore play a key role in a number of regulatory feedback processes that co-ordinate the whole endocrine system. Here we review the neuroendocrine system, from the discoveries that led to its identification to some recently clarified embryological, functional, and morphological aspects. In particular we review the pituitary gland and the main notions related to its development, organization, cell differentiation, and vascularization. Given the crucial importance of the factors controlling neuroendocrine system development to understand parvocellular neuron function and the aetiology of the congenital disorders related to hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction, we also provide an overview of the molecular and genetic studies that have advanced our knowledge in the field. Through the action of the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland is involved in the control of a broad range of key aspects of our lives: the review focuses on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, particularly GnRH, whose abnormal secretion is associated with clinical conditions involving delayed or absent puberty and reproductive dysfunction.
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32
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Zhang W, Johnson JI, Tsai PS. Fgf8-Deficient Mice Compensate for Reduced GnRH Neuronal Population and Exhibit Normal Testicular Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:151. [PMID: 26441841 PMCID: PMC4585285 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is critical for the onset and maintenance of reproduction in vertebrates. The development of GnRH neurons is highly dependent on fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) signaling. Mice with a hypomorphic Fgf8 allele (Fgf8 Het) exhibited a ~50% reduction in GnRH neuron number at birth. Female Fgf8 Het mice were fertile but showed significantly delayed puberty. However, it was unclear if these mice suffered additional loss of GnRH neurons after birth, and if male Fgf8 Het mice had normal pubertal transition and testicular function. In this study, we examined postnatal GnRH neuron number and hypothalamic GnRH content in Fgf8 Het mice from birth to 120 days of age. Further, we examined seminal vesicle and testicular growth, testicular histology, and circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) around and after pubertal transition. Our results showed that GnRH neuron numbers were significantly and consistently reduced in Fgf8 Het mice of both sexes in all ages examined, suggesting these animals were born with an inherently defective GnRH system, and no further postnatal loss of GnRH neurons had occurred. Despite an innately compromised GnRH system, male and female Fgf8 mice exhibited normal levels of immunoassayable hypothalamic GnRH peptide at all ages examined except on 60 days of age, suggesting increased GnRH synthesis or reduced turnover as a compensatory mechanism. Fgf8 Het males also had normal seminal vesicle and testicular mass/body mass ratios, testicular histology, and circulating LH. Overall, our data speak to the extraordinary ability of a GnRH system permanently compromised by developmental defect to overcome pre-existing deficiencies to ensure pubertal progression and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Joshua I. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Pei-San Tsai
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- *Correspondence: Pei-San Tsai, Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, 114 Clare Small, Boulder, CO 80309-0354, USA,
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Giacobini P. Shaping the Reproductive System: Role of Semaphorins in Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Development and Function. Neuroendocrinology 2015; 102:200-15. [PMID: 25967979 DOI: 10.1159/000431021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The semaphorin proteins, which contribute to the morphogenesis and homeostasis of a wide range of systems, are among the best-studied families of guidance cues. Much recent research has focused on the role of semaphorins in the development and adult activity of hormone systems and, reciprocally, how circulating reproductive hormones regulate their expression and function. Specifically, several reports have focused on the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of semaphorins on the migration, survival and structural and functional plasticity of neurons that secrete gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), essential for the acquisition and maintenance of reproductive competence in mammals. Alterations in the development of this neuroendocrine system lead to anomalous or absent GnRH secretion, resulting in heterogeneous reproductive disorders such as congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) or other conditions characterized by infertility or subfertility. This review summarizes current knowledge of the role of semaphorins and their receptors on the development, differentiation and plasticity of the GnRH system. In addition, the involvement of genetic deficits in semaphorin signaling in some forms of CHH in humans is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Giacobini
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, U1172, School of Medicine, University of Lille, and Institut de Médecine Prédictive et de Recherche Thérapeutique, IFR114, Lille, France
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Forni PE, Wray S. GnRH, anosmia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism--where are we? Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 36:165-77. [PMID: 25306902 PMCID: PMC4703044 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons originate the nasal placode and migrate into the brain during prenatal development. Once within the brain, these cells become integral components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, essential for reproductive function. Disruption of this system causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH). HH associated with anosmia is clinically defined as Kallman syndrome (KS). Recent work examining the developing nasal region has shed new light on cellular composition, cell interactions and molecular cues responsible for the development of this system in different species. This review discusses some developmental aspects, animal models and current advancements in our understanding of pathologies affecting GnRH. In addition we discuss how development of neural crest derivatives such as the glia of the olfactory system and craniofacial structures control GnRH development and reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo E Forni
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, United States.
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States.
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Vastagh C, Schwirtlich M, Kwakowsky A, Erdélyi F, Margolis FL, Yanagawa Y, Katarova Z, Szabó G. The spatiotemporal segregation of GAD forms defines distinct GABA signaling functions in the developing mouse olfactory system and provides novel insights into the origin and migration of GnRH neurons. Dev Neurobiol 2014; 75:249-70. [PMID: 25125027 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) has a dual role as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the adult central nervous system (CNS) and as a signaling molecule exerting largely excitatory actions during development. The rate-limiting step of GABA synthesis is catalyzed by two glutamic acid decarboxylase isoforms GAD65 and GAD67 coexpressed in the GABAergic neurons of the CNS. Here we report that the two GADs show virtually nonoverlapping expression patterns consistent with distinct roles in the developing peripheral olfactory system. GAD65 is expressed exclusively in undifferentiated neuronal progenitors confined to the proliferative zones of the sensory vomeronasal and olfactory epithelia In contrast GAD67 is expressed in a subregion of the nonsensory epithelium/vomeronasal organ epithelium containing the putative Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) progenitors and GnRH neurons migrating from this region through the frontonasal mesenchyme into the basal forebrain. Only GAD67+, but not GAD65+ cells accumulate detectable GABA. We further demonstrate that GAD67 and its embryonic splice variant embryonic GAD (EGAD) concomitant with GnRH are dynamically regulated during GnRH neuronal migration in vivo and in two immortalized cell lines representing migratory (GN11) and postmigratory (GT1-7) stage GnRH neurons, respectively. Analysis of GAD65/67 single and double knock-out embryos revealed that the two GADs play complementary (inhibitory) roles in GnRH migration ultimately modulating the speed and/or direction of GnRH migration. Our results also suggest that GAD65 and GAD67/EGAD characterized by distinct subcellular localization and kinetics have disparate functions during olfactory system development mediating proliferative and migratory responses putatively through specific subcellular GABA pools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Division of Medical Gene Technology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary; Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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Abstract
Cell migration is a fundamental process that occurs during embryo development. Classic studies using in vitro culture systems have been instrumental in dissecting the principles of cell motility and highlighting how cells make use of topographical features of the substrate, cell-cell contacts, and chemical and physical environmental signals to direct their locomotion. Here, we review the guidance principles of in vitro cell locomotion and examine how they control directed cell migration in vivo during development. We focus on developmental examples in which individual guidance mechanisms have been clearly dissected, and for which the interactions among guidance cues have been explored. We also discuss how the migratory behaviours elicited by guidance mechanisms generate the stereotypical patterns of migration that shape tissues in the developing embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán Reig
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Eduardo Pulgar
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Miguel L. Concha
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago 8380453, Chile
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Marino M, Moriondo V, Vighi E, Pignatti E, Simoni M. Central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: genetic complexity of a complex disease. Int J Endocrinol 2014; 2014:649154. [PMID: 25254043 PMCID: PMC4165873 DOI: 10.1155/2014/649154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is an emerging pathological condition frequently associated with overweight, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and midline defects. The genetic mechanisms involve mutations in at least twenty-four genes regulating GnRH neuronal migration, secretion, and activity. So far, the mechanisms underlying CHH, both in prepubertal and in adulthood onset forms, remain unknown in most of the cases. Indeed, all detected gene variants may explain a small proportion of the affected patients (43%), indicating that other genes or epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the onset of CHH. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on genetic background of CHH, organizing the large amount of data present in the literature in a clear and concise manner, to produce a useful guide available for researchers and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
- *Marco Marino:
| | - Valeria Moriondo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Vighi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Pignatti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, Via Pietro Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 187, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Azienda USL of Modena, Via San Giovanni del Cantone 23, 41121 Modena, Italy
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