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Żabińska M, Wiśniewska K, Węgrzyn G, Pierzynowska K. Exploring the physiological role of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and its associations with human diseases. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 166:107070. [PMID: 38733757 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen is a group of hormones that collaborate with the nervous system to impact the overall well-being of all genders. It influences many processes, including those occurring in the central nervous system, affecting learning and memory, and playing roles in neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders. The hormone's action is mediated by specific receptors. Significant roles of classical estrogen receptors, ERα and ERβ, in various diseases were known since many years, but after identifying a structurally and locationally distinct receptor, the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), its role in human physiology and pathophysiology was investigated. This review compiles GPER-related information, highlighting its impact on homeostasis and diseases, while putting special attention on functions and dysfunctions of this receptor in neurobiology and biobehavioral processes. Understanding the receptor modulation possibilities is essential for therapy, as disruptions in receptors can lead to diseases or disorders, irrespective of correct estrogen levels. We conclude that studies on the GPER receptor have the potential to develop therapies that regulate estrogen and positively impact human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Żabińska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Karolina Wiśniewska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Węgrzyn
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Karolina Pierzynowska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland.
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Zhao CL, Hou W, Jia Y, Sahakian BJ, Luo Q. Sex differences of signal complexity at resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and their associations with the estrogen-signaling pathway in the brain. Cogn Neurodyn 2024; 18:973-986. [PMID: 38826661 PMCID: PMC11143120 DOI: 10.1007/s11571-023-09954-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in the brain have been widely reported and may hold the key to elucidating sex differences in many medical conditions and drug response. However, the molecular correlates of these sex differences in structural and functional brain measures in the human brain remain unclear. Herein, we used sample entropy (SampEn) to quantify the signal complexity of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) in a large neuroimaging cohort (N = 1,642). The frontoparietal control network and the cingulo-opercular network had high signal complexity while the cerebellar and sensory motor networks had low signal complexity in both men and women. Compared with those in male brains, we found greater signal complexity in all functional brain networks in female brains with the default mode network exhibiting the largest sex difference. Using the gene expression data in brain tissues, we identified genes that were significantly associated with sex differences in brain signal complexity. The significant genes were enriched in the gene sets that were differentially expressed between the brain cortex and other tissues, the estrogen-signaling pathway, and the biological function of neural plasticity. In particular, the G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 gene in the estrogen-signaling pathway was expressed more in brain regions with greater sex differences in SampEn. In conclusion, greater complexity in female brains may reflect the interactions between sex hormone fluctuations and neuromodulation of estrogen in women. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11571-023-09954-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-li Zhao
- College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, 410073 China
| | - Wenjie Hou
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433 China
- Center for Computational Psychiatry, MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438 China
| | - Yanbing Jia
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471000 China
| | - Barbara J. Sahakian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SZ UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB UK
| | - the DIRECT Consortium
- College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, 410073 China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433 China
- Center for Computational Psychiatry, MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471000 China
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SZ UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB UK
| | - Qiang Luo
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433 China
- Center for Computational Psychiatry, MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438 China
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3
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Trout AL, McLouth CJ, Westberry JM, Sengoku T, Wilson ME. Estrogen's sex-specific effects on ischemic cell death and estrogen receptor mRNA expression in rat cortical organotypic explants. AGING BRAIN 2024; 5:100117. [PMID: 38650743 PMCID: PMC11033203 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2024.100117] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogens, such as the biologically active 17-β estradiol (E2), regulate not only reproductive behaviors in adults, but also influence neurodevelopment and neuroprotection in both females and males. E2, contingent upon the timing and concentration of the therapy, is neuroprotective in female and male rodent models of stroke. In Vivo studies suggest that E2 may partially mediate this neuroprotection, particularly in the cortex, via ERα. In Vitro studies, utilizing a chemically induced ischemic injury in cortical explants from both sexes, suggest that ERα or ERβ signaling is needed to mediate the E2 protection. Since we know that the timing and concentration of E2 therapy may be sex-specific, we examined if E2 (1 nM) mediates neuroprotection when female and male cortical explants are separately isolated from postnatal day (PND) 3-4 rat. Changes in basal levels ERα, ERβ, and AR mRNA expression are compared across early post-natal development in the intact cortex and the corresponding days in vitro (DIV) for cortical explants. Following ischemic injury at 7 DIV, cell death and ERα, ERβ and AR mRNA expression was compared in female and male cortical explants. We provide evidence that E2-mediated protection is maintained in isolated cortical explants from females, but not male rats. In female cortical explants, the E2-mediated protection at 24 h occurs secondarily to a blunted transient increase in ERα mRNA at 12 h. These results suggest that cortical E2-mediated protection is influenced by sex and supports data to differentially treat females and males following ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L. Trout
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Christopher J McLouth
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jenne M. Westberry
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Tomoko Sengoku
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Melinda E. Wilson
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Proaño SB, Miller CK, Krentzel AA, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Sex steroid hormones, the estrous cycle, and rapid modulation of glutamatergic synapse properties in the striatal brain regions with a focus on 17β-estradiol and the nucleus accumbens. Steroids 2024; 201:109344. [PMID: 37979822 PMCID: PMC10842710 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The striatal brain regions encompassing the nucleus accumbens core (NAcc), shell (NAcs) and caudate-putamen (CPu) regulate cognitive functions including motivated behaviors, habit, learning, and sensorimotor action, among others. Sex steroid hormone sensitivity and sex differences have been documented in all of these functions in both normative and pathological contexts, including anxiety, depression and addiction. The neurotransmitter glutamate has been implicated in regulating these behaviors as well as striatal physiology, and there are likewise documented sex differences in glutamate action upon the striatal output neurons, the medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Here we review the available data regarding the role of steroid sex hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol), progesterone, and testosterone in rapidly modulating MSN glutamatergic synapse properties, presented in the context of the estrous cycle as appropriate. Estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse properties in female NAcc MSNs is most comprehensively discussed. In the female NAcc, MSNs exhibit development period-specific sex differences and estrous cycle variations in glutamatergic synapse properties as shown by multiple analyses, including that of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). Estrous cycle-differences in NAcc MSN mEPSCs can be mimicked by acute exposure to estradiol or an ERα agonist. The available evidence, or lack thereof, is also discussed concerning estrogen action upon MSN glutamatergic synapse in the other striatal regions as well as the underexplored roles of progesterone and testosterone. We conclude that there is strong evidence regarding estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse function in female NAcs MSNs and call for more research regarding other hormones and striatal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie B Proaño
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Christiana K Miller
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Amanda A Krentzel
- Office of Research and Innovation, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - David M Dorris
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Jouffre B, Acramel A, Jacquot Y, Daulhac L, Mallet C. GPER involvement in inflammatory pain. Steroids 2023; 200:109311. [PMID: 37734514 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a worldwide refractory health disease that causes major financial and emotional burdens and that is devastating for individuals and society. One primary source of pain is inflammation. Current treatments for inflammatory pain are weakly effective, although they usually replace analgesics, such as opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which display serious side effects. Emerging evidence indicates that the membrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) may play an important role in the regulation of inflammation and pain. Herein, we focus on the consequences of pharmacological and genetic GPER modulation in different animal models of inflammatory pain. We also provide a brief overview of the putative mechanisms including the direct action of GPER on pain transmission and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Jouffre
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm U1107 Neuro-Dol, Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France; ANALGESIA Institute, Faculty of Medicine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Alexandre Acramel
- CiTCoM, CNRS - UMR 8038, INSERM U1268, Faculty of Pharmacy of Paris, University Paris Cité, 75270 Paris Cedex 06, France; Department of Pharmacy, Institut Curie, 75248 Paris Cedex 06, France
| | - Yves Jacquot
- CiTCoM, CNRS - UMR 8038, INSERM U1268, Faculty of Pharmacy of Paris, University Paris Cité, 75270 Paris Cedex 06, France
| | - Laurence Daulhac
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm U1107 Neuro-Dol, Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France; ANALGESIA Institute, Faculty of Medicine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Christophe Mallet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm U1107 Neuro-Dol, Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France; ANALGESIA Institute, Faculty of Medicine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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6
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Li Y, Jiang Z, Zuo W, Huang C, Zhao J, Liu P, Wang J, Guo J, Zhang X, Wang M, Lu Y, Hou W, Wang Q. Sexual dimorphic distribution of G protein-coupled receptor 30 in pain-related regions of the mouse brain. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 37924265 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in pain sensitivity have contributed to the fact that medications for curing chronic pain are unsatisfactory. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. Brain-derived estrogen participates in modulation of sex differences in pain and related emotion. G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), identified as a novel estrogen receptor with a different distribution than traditional receptors, has been proved to play a vital role in regulating pain affected by estrogen. However, the contribution of its distribution to sexually dimorphic pain-related behaviors has not been fully explored. In the current study, immunofluorescence assays were applied to mark the neurons expressing GPR30 in male and female mice (in metestrus and proestrus phase) in pain-related brain regions. The neurons that express CaMKIIα or VGAT were also labeled to observe overlap with GPR30. We found that females had more GPR30-positive (GPR30+ ) neurons in the primary somatosensory (S1) and insular cortex (IC) than males. In the lateral habenula (LHb) and the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), males had more GPR30+ neurons than females. Moreover, within the LHb, the expression of GPR30 varied with estrous cycle phase; females in metestrus had fewer GPR30+ neurons than those in proestrus. In addition, females had more GPR30+ neurons, which co-expressed CaMKIIα in the medial preoptic nucleus (mPOA) than males, while males had more than females in the basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA). These findings may partly explain the different modulatory effects of GPR30 in pain and related emotional phenotypes between sexes and provide a basis for comprehension of sexual dimorphism in pain related to estrogen and GPR30, and finally provide new targets for exploiting new treatments of sex-specific pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zhenhua Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Nursing, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Wenqiang Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chenchen Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jianshuai Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Peizheng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jingzhi Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Minghui Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Wugang Hou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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Hirtz A, Rech F, Dubois-Pot-Schneider H, Dumond H. Estrogen signaling in healthy and tumor brain. Steroids 2023; 199:109285. [PMID: 37543222 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Sex-specific differences in brain organization and function are widely explored in multidisciplinary studies, ranging from sociology and biology to digital modelling. In addition, there is growing evidence that natural or disturbed hormonal environments play a crucial role in the onset of brain disorders and pathogenesis. For example, steroid hormones, but also enzymes involved in steroidogenesis and receptors triggering hormone signaling are key players of gliomagenesis. In the present review we summarize the current knowledge about steroid hormone, particularly estrogens synthesis and signaling, in normal brain compared to the tumor brain. We will focus on two key molecular players, aromatase and the G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor, GPER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Hirtz
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, F-54000 Nancy, France.
| | - Fabien Rech
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CHRU-Nancy, Service de Neurochirurgie, F-54000 Nancy, France.
| | | | - Hélène Dumond
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, F-54000 Nancy, France.
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Peng J, He Y, He J, Zhang J, Yu Z, Xia Y. GPR30 agonist G1 combined with hypothermia alleviates cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior after subarachnoid hemorrhage in rats. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3204. [PMID: 37548479 PMCID: PMC10570468 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate the treatment effect of G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) agonist G1 combined with hypothermia (HT) on cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in rats. METHODS Fifty male rats were randomly assigned to one of five groups: Sham group, SAH group, SAH + G1 group, SAH + HT group, and SAH + G1 + HT group. The SAH rat model was established by modified endovascular puncture in all groups except the Sham group. Neurological function after the operation was assessed by Garcia scoring. The degree of rat cerebral edema was determined using dry-wet weighing method on the 28th day after operation. Moreover, the behavioral test was performed on rats on the 4th and 28th days after operation. RESULTS Compared with Sham group, the Garcia score of each SAH rat model group decreased significantly on the first day and thereafter increased gradually. However, the recovery rate of each treatment group was higher than the SAH group (no treatment), and the Garcia score of SAH + G1 + HT group was much higher than the SAH group on the seventh day after operation. In addition, each treatment group could obviously reduce the cerebral edema degree of SAH rats, among which rats in SAH + G1 + HT group had lower cerebral edema degree than SAH + G1 group and SAH + HT group. Behavioral test results showed that the combination of GPR30 agonist G1 and HT markedly improved the learning and memory ability of SAH rats, alleviated their anxiety- and emotion-related behavior, and enhanced their social interaction. CONCLUSION GPR30 agonist G1 combined with HT reduces cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior in rats with SAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Peng
- Department of neurosurgeryHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Yang He
- Department of NeurologyHainan Medical College First Affiliated HospitalHaikouHainanChina
| | - Jun He
- Department of neurosurgeryHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Ji‐kun Zhang
- Department of neurosurgeryHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Zheng‐tao Yu
- Department of neurosurgeryHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of neurosurgeryHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
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Gall CM, Le AA, Lynch G. Sex differences in synaptic plasticity underlying learning. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:764-782. [PMID: 33847004 PMCID: PMC10337639 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although sex differences in learning behaviors are well documented, sexual dimorphism in the synaptic processes of encoding is only recently appreciated. Studies in male rodents have built upon the discovery of long-term potentiation (LTP), and acceptance of this activity-dependent increase in synaptic strength as a mechanism of encoding, to identify synaptic receptors and signaling activities that coordinate the activity-dependent remodeling of the subsynaptic actin cytoskeleton that is critical for enduring potentiation and memory. These molecular substrates together with other features of LTP, as characterized in males, have provided an explanation for a range of memory phenomena including multiple stages of consolidation, the efficacy of spaced training, and the location of engrams at the level of individual synapses. In the present report, we summarize these findings and describe more recent results from our laboratories showing that in females the same actin regulatory mechanisms are required for hippocampal LTP and memory but, in females only, the engagement of both modulatory receptors such as TrkB and synaptic signaling intermediaries including Src and ERK1/2 requires neuron-derived estrogen and signaling through membrane-associated estrogen receptor α (ERα). Moreover, in association with the additional ERα involvement, females exhibit a higher threshold for hippocampal LTP and spatial learning. We propose that the distinct LTP threshold in females contributes to as yet unappreciated sex differences in information processing and features of learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M. Gall
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Aliza A. Le
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Gary Lynch
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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10
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Non-genomic Effect of Estradiol on the Neurovascular Unit and Possible Involvement in the Cerebral Vascular Accident. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1964-1985. [PMID: 36596967 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03178-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerebrovascular diseases, such as ischemic cerebral vascular accident (CVA), are responsible for causing high rates of morbidity, mortality, and disability in the population. The neurovascular unit (NVU) during and after ischemic CVA plays crucial roles in cell regulation and preservation, the immune and inflammatory response, and cell and/or tissue survival and repair. Cellular responses to 17β-estradiol (E2) can be triggered by two mechanisms: one called classical or genomic, which is due to the activation of the "classical" nuclear estrogen receptors α (ERα) and β (ERβ), and the non-genomic or rapid mechanism, which is due to the activation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) that is located in the plasma membrane and some in intracellular membranes, such as in the Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum. Nuclear receptors can regulate gene expression and cellular functions. On the contrary, activating the GPER by E2 and/or its G-1 agonist triggers several rapid cell signaling pathways. Therefore, E2 or its G-1 agonist, by mediating GPER activation and/or expression, can influence several NVU cell types. Most studies argue that the activation of the GPER may be used as a potential therapeutic target in various pathologies, such as CVA. Thus, with this review, we aimed to summarize the existing literature on the role of GPER mediated by E2 and/or its agonist G-1 in the physiology and pathophysiology of NVU.
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Miller CK, Krentzel AA, Meitzen J. ERα Stimulation Rapidly Modulates Excitatory Synapse Properties in Female Rat Nucleus Accumbens Core. Neuroendocrinology 2023; 113:1140-1153. [PMID: 36746131 PMCID: PMC10623399 DOI: 10.1159/000529571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The nucleus accumbens core (NAcc) is a sexually differentiated brain region that is modulated by steroid hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol), with consequential impacts on relevant motivated behaviors and disorders such as addiction, anxiety, and depression. NAcc estradiol levels naturally fluctuate, including during the estrous cycle in adult female rats, which is analogous to the menstrual cycle in adult humans. Across the estrous cycle, excitatory synapse properties of medium spiny neurons rapidly change, as indicated by analysis of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). mEPSC frequency decreases during estrous cycle phases associated with high estradiol levels. This decrease in mEPSC frequency is mimicked by acute topical exposure to estradiol. The identity of the estrogen receptor (ER) underlying this estradiol action is unknown. Adult rat NAcc expresses three ERs, all extranuclear: membrane ERα, membrane ERβ, and GPER1. METHODS In this brief report, we take a first step toward addressing this challenge by testing whether activation of ERs via acute topical agonist application is sufficient for inducing changes in mEPSC properties recorded via whole-cell patch clamp. RESULTS An agonist of ERα induced large decreases in mEPSC frequency, while agonists of ERβ and GPER1 did not robustly modulate mEPSC properties. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence that activation of ERα is sufficient for inducing changes in mEPSC frequency and is a likely candidate underlying the estradiol-induced changes observed during the estrous cycle. Overall, these findings extend our understanding of the neuroendocrinology of the NAcc and implicate ERα as a primary target for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana K. Miller
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Amanda A. Krentzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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12
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Saldanha CJ. Spatial and temporal specificity of neuroestradiol provision in the songbird. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13192. [PMID: 35983989 PMCID: PMC9889572 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13192] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Steroid hormones are often synthesized in multiple tissues, affect several different targets, and modulate numerous physiological endpoints. The mechanisms by which this modulation is achieved with temporal and spatial specificity remain unclear. 17β-estradiol for example, is made in several peripheral tissues and in the brain, where it affects a diverse set of behaviors. How is estradiol delivered to the right target, at the right time, and at the right concentration? In the last two decades, we have learned that aromatase (estrogen-synthase) can be induced in astrocytes following damage to the brain and is expressed at central synapses. Both mechanisms of estrogen provision confer spatial and temporal specificity on a lipophilic neurohormone with potential access to all cells and tissues. In this review, I trace the progress in our understanding of astrocytic and synaptic aromatization. I discuss the incidence, regulation, and functions of neuroestradiol provision by aromatization, first in astrocytes and then at synapses. Finally, I focus on a relatively novel hypothesis about the role of neuroestradiol in the orchestration of species-specific behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin J Saldanha
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychology, and Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, Washington, DC, USA
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13
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Identification of a human estrogen receptor α tetrapeptidic fragment with dual antiproliferative and anti-nociceptive action. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1326. [PMID: 36693877 PMCID: PMC9873809 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28062-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The synthetic peptide ERα17p (sequence: PLMIKRSKKNSLALSLT), which corresponds to the 295-311 region of the human estrogen receptor α (ERα), induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells. In mice and at low doses, it promotes not only the decrease of the size of xenografted triple-negative human breast tumors, but also anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects. Recently, we have shown that these effects were due to its interaction with the seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER. Following modeling studies, the C-terminus of this peptide (sequence: NSLALSLT) remains compacted at the entrance of the GPER ligand-binding pocket, whereas its N-terminus (sequence: PLMI) engulfs in the depth of the same pocket. Thus, we have hypothesized that the PLMI motif could support the pharmacological actions of ERα17p. Here, we show that the PLMI peptide is, indeed, responsible for the GPER-dependent antiproliferative and anti-nociceptive effects of ERα17p. By using different biophysical approaches, we demonstrate that the NSLALSLT part of ERα17p is responsible for aggregation. Overall, the tetrapeptide PLMI, which supports the action of the parent peptide ERα17p, should be considered as a hit for the synthesis of new GPER modulators with dual antiproliferative and anti-nociceptive actions. This study highlights also the interest to modulate GPER for the control of pain.
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14
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Anti-Inflammatory Actions of G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER) and Brain-Derived Estrogen Following Cerebral Ischemia in Ovariectomized Rats. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010099. [PMID: 36671793 PMCID: PMC9855882 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Global cerebral ischemia can elicit rapid innate neuroprotective mechanisms that protect against delayed neuronal death. Brain-derived 17β-estradiol (BDE2), an endogenous neuroprotectant, is synthesized from testosterone by the enzyme aromatase (Aro) and is upregulated by brain ischemia and inflammation. Our recent study revealed that G1, a specific G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) agonist, exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic roles after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Herein, we aimed to elucidate whether G1 modulates the early inflammatory process and the potential underlying mechanisms in the ovariectomized rat hippocampal CA1 region. G1 was found to markedly reduce pro-inflammatory (iNOS, MHCII, and CD68) and to enhance anti-inflammatory (CD206, Arginase 1, IL1RA, PPARγ, and BDNF) markers after 1 and 3 days of reperfusion after GCI. Intriguingly, the neuroprotection of G1 was blocked by the Aro inhibitor, letrozole. Conversely, the GPER antagonist, G36, inhibited Aro-BDE2 signaling and exacerbated neuronal damage. As a whole, this work demonstrates a novel anti-inflammatory role of GPER, involving a synergistic mediation with BDE2 during the early stage of GCI.
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15
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Bisphenol A exposure links to exacerbation of memory and cognitive impairment: A systematic review of the literature. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 143:104939. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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16
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Stachowicz K. Is PSD-95 entangled in the side effects of antidepressants? Neurochem Int 2022; 159:105391. [PMID: 35817245 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2022.105391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PSD-95 is a component and a building block of an excitatory synapse. PSD-95 is a specialized protein that is part of a "combination lock" system responsible for plastic events at the synapse, such as receptor expression, which consequently induces changes in the PSD structure and thus affects synaptic plasticity. The possible involvement of PSD-95 in antidepressant side effects related to cognitive function and psychosis will be considered. An attempt will be made to trace the sequence of events in the proposed mechanism leading to these disorders, focusing mainly on NMDA receptors. Understanding the mechanisms of action of compounds with antidepressant potential may facilitate the design of safer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Stachowicz
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna, 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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17
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Florido A, Moreno E, Canela EI, Andero R. Nk3R blockade has sex-divergent effects on memory in mice. Biol Sex Differ 2022; 13:28. [PMID: 35690790 PMCID: PMC9188709 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-022-00437-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Memory consolidation is a process required for the formation of long-term memories. The G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) neurokinin-3-receptor (Nk3R) and its interactions with sex hormones seem important for the modulation of fear memory consolidation: Nk3R antagonism in male mice impairs fear memory, but enhances it in females. However, the involvement of the Nk3R as a modulator of other memories in both sexes remains unexplored. Methods We use the novel object recognition paradigm to test the effect of a systemic blockade of Nk3R during memory consolidation. Further, we assess the expression of estrogen receptor α, estrogen receptor β, and androgen receptor and heterodimerization with Nk3R in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and dorsal hippocampus (DH) of mice. Results Nk3R systemic antagonism elicited decreased memory consolidation in males while it enhanced it in females during proestrus. Nk3R analysis in the different subregions of the mPFC and the DH showed a higher expression in males than females. Moreover, females presented upregulation of the androgen receptor in the CA1 and the estrogen receptor beta in the cingulate cortex, CA1, and dentate gyrus. Overall, males presented an upregulation of the estrogen receptor alpha. We also explored the heterodimerization of GCPR membrane sex hormone receptors with the Nk3R. We found a higher percentage of Nk3R-membrane G-protein estrogen receptors heterodimers in the prelimbic cortex of the mPFC in females, suggesting an interaction of estradiol with Nk3R in memory consolidation. However, males presented a higher percentage of Nk3R-membrane G-protein androgen receptors heterodimers compared to females, pointing to an interaction of testosterone with Nk3R in memory consolidation. Conclusion These data propose novel ideas on functional interactions between Nk3R, sex hormones, estrogen receptors, and androgen receptors in memory consolidation. Nk3R antagonism reduces recognition memory consolidation in male mice and increases it in proestrus females. Androgen receptor expression is higher in the CA1 compared to DG, CA3, and the mPFC. Estrogen repcetor α expression is higher in males than in females in the DH and mPFC. Estrogen receptor β expression is greater in females than in males in the DG, CA1, and CG. Over 60% of Nk3R in the DH and mPFC is heterodimerized with membrane estrogen receptor and androgen receptor. Nk3R–GPAR is more abundant in males than in proestrus females, whereas Nk3R–GPER is greater in proestrus females compared to males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Florido
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.,Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estefanía Moreno
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona i Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric I Canela
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona i Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain.,Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raül Andero
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain. .,Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain. .,Unitat de Neurociència Translacional, Parc Taulí Hospital Universitari, Institut d'Investigació I Innovació Parc Taulí (I3PT), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain. .,ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain.
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18
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Reddy V, McCarthy M, Raval AP. Xenoestrogens impact brain estrogen receptor signaling during the female lifespan: A precursor to neurological disease? Neurobiol Dis 2021; 163:105596. [PMID: 34942334 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Xenoestrogens, foreign synthetic chemicals mimicking estrogens, are lurking in our surroundings. Climate change may alter their toxicity and bioavailability. Since xenoestrogens have extremely high lipid solubility and are structurally similar to natural endogenous estrogens, they can bind to estrogen receptors (ERs) -alpha (ER-α) and -beta (ER-β). Scientific evidence accumulated over the past decades have suggested that natural 17β-estradiol (E2; a potent estrogen), via activation of its receptors, plays a pivotal role in regulation of brain development, differentiation, metabolism, synaptic plasticity, neuroprotection, cognition, anxiety, body temperature, feeding and sexual behavior. In the brain, ER-β is predominantly expressed in the various regions, including cerebral cortex and hippocampus, that have been shown to play a key role in cognition. Therefore, disturbances in function of ER-β mediated E2 signaling by xenoestrogens can lead to deleterious effects that potentiate a variety of neurological diseases starting from prenatal to post-menopause in women. The goal of this review is to identify the possible neurological effects of xenoestrogens that can alter estrogen receptor-mediated signaling in the brain during different stages of the female lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Reddy
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research Laboratory, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Neurology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Micheline McCarthy
- Department of Neurology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Ami P Raval
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research Laboratory, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Neurology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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19
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Balthazart J. Membrane-initiated actions of sex steroids and reproductive behavior: A historical account. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 538:111463. [PMID: 34582978 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
It was assumed for a long time that sex steroids are activating reproductive behaviors by the same mechanisms that produce their morphological and physiological effects in the periphery. However during the last few decades an increasing number of examples were identified where behavioral effects of steroids were just too fast to be mediated via changes in DNA transcription. This progressively forced behavioral neuroendocrinologists to recognize that part of the effects of steroids on behavior are mediated by membrane-initiated events. In this review we present a selection of these early data that changed the conceptual landscape and we provide a summary the different types of membrane-associated receptors (estrogens, androgens and progestagens receptors) that are playing the most important role in the control of reproductive behaviors. Then we finally describe in more detail three separate behavioral systems in which membrane-initiated events have clearly been established to contribute to behavior control.
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20
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Brann DW, Lu Y, Wang J, Zhang Q, Thakkar R, Sareddy GR, Pratap UP, Tekmal RR, Vadlamudi RK. Brain-derived estrogen and neural function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:793-817. [PMID: 34823913 PMCID: PMC8816863 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although classically known as an endocrine signal produced by the ovary, 17β-estradiol (E2) is also a neurosteroid produced in neurons and astrocytes in the brain of many different species. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the localization, regulation, sex differences, and physiological/pathological roles of brain-derived E2 (BDE2). Much of what we know regarding the functional roles of BDE2 has come from studies using specific inhibitors of the E2 synthesis enzyme, aromatase, as well as the recent development of conditional forebrain neuron-specific and astrocyte-specific aromatase knockout mouse models. The evidence from these studies support a critical role for neuron-derived E2 (NDE2) in the regulation of synaptic plasticity, memory, socio-sexual behavior, sexual differentiation, reproduction, injury-induced reactive gliosis, and neuroprotection. Furthermore, we review evidence that astrocyte-derived E2 (ADE2) is induced following brain injury/ischemia, and plays a key role in reactive gliosis, neuroprotection, and cognitive preservation. Finally, we conclude by discussing the key controversies and challenges in this area, as well as potential future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrell W Brann
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
| | - Yujiao Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Roshni Thakkar
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Gangadhara R Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Uday P Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Rajeshwar R Tekmal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA
| | - Ratna K Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health, San Antoio TX, 78229, USA; Audie L. Murphy Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
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21
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Estrogenic hormones receptors in Alzheimer's disease. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:7517-7526. [PMID: 34657250 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06792-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Estrogens are hormones that play a critical role during development and growth for the adequate functioning of the reproductive system of women, as well as for maintaining bones, metabolism, and cognition. During menopause, the levels of estrogens are decreased, altering their signaling mediated by their intracellular receptors such as estrogen receptor alpha and beta (ERα and ERβ), and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). In the brain, the reduction of molecular pathways mediated by estrogenic receptors seems to favor the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in postmenopausal women. In this review, we investigate the participation of estrogen receptors in AD in women during aging.
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22
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Li H, Liu Y, Wang Y, Zhao X, Qi X. Hormone therapy for ovarian cancer: Emphasis on mechanisms and applications (Review). Oncol Rep 2021; 46:223. [PMID: 34435651 PMCID: PMC8424487 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) remains the leading cause of mortality due to gynecological malignancies. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that steroid hormones released from the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis can play a role in stimulating or inhibiting OC progression, with gonadotropins, estrogens and androgens promoting OC progression, while gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and progesterone may be protective factors in OC. Experimental studies have indicated that hormone receptors are expressed in OC cells and mediate the growth stimulatory or growth inhibitory effects of hormones on these cells. Hormone therapy agents have been evaluated in a number of clinical trials. The majority of these trials were conducted in patients with relapsed or refractory OC with average efficacy and limited side-effects. A better understanding of the mechanisms through which hormones affect cell growth may improve the efficacy of hormone therapy. In the present review article, the role of hormones (GnRH, gonadotropins, androgens, estrogens and progestins) and their receptors in OC tumorigenesis, and hormonal therapy in OC treatment is discussed and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xiaorong Qi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
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23
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de Souza LO, Machado GDB, de Freitas BS, Rodrigues SLC, Severo MPA, Molz P, da Silva JAC, Bromberg E, Roesler R, Schröder N. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) regulates recognition and aversively-motivated memory in male rats. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 184:107499. [PMID: 34352396 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens, particularly 17β-estradiol (estradiol, E2), regulate memory formation. E2 acts through its intracellular receptors, estrogen receptors (ER) ERα and ERβ, as well as a recently identified G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). Although the effects of E2 on memory have been investigated, studies examining the effects of GPER stimulation are scarce. Selective GPER agonism improves memory in ovariectomized female rats, but little information is available regarding the effects of GPER stimulation in male rodents. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the GPER agonist, G1, on consolidation and reconsolidation of inhibitory avoidance (IA) and object recognition (OR) memory in male rats. Animals received vehicle, G1 (15, 75, 150 µg/kg; i.p.), or the GPER antagonist G15 (100 µg/kg; i.p.) immediately after training, or G1 (150 µg/kg; i.p.) 3 or 6 h after training. To investigate reconsolidation, G1 was administered immediately after IA retention Test 1. Results indicated that G1 administered immediately after training at the highest dose enhanced both OR and IA memory consolidation, while GPER blockade immediately after training impaired OR. No effects of GPER stimulation were observed when G1 was given 3 or 6 h after training or after Test 1. The present findings provide evidence that GPER is involved in the early stages of memory consolidation in both neutral and emotional memory tasks in male adult rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lariza Oliveira de Souza
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Dalto Barroso Machado
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Betânia Souza de Freitas
- Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, School of Health and Life Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Sarah Luize Camargo Rodrigues
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Paula Arakaki Severo
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Molz
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - José Afonso Corrêa da Silva
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Elke Bromberg
- Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, School of Health and Life Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Nadja Schröder
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq), Brasília, Brazil.
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Pavlidi P, Kokras N, Dalla C. Antidepressants' effects on testosterone and estrogens: What do we know? Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 899:173998. [PMID: 33676942 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Various antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, and sex differences have been identified in their efficacy and side effects. Steroids, such as estrogens and testosterone, both in the periphery and locally in the brain, are regarded as important modulators of these sex differences. This review presents published data from preclinical and clinical studies that measure testosterone and estrogen level changes during and/or after acute or chronic administration of different antidepressants. The majority of studies show an interaction between sex hormones and antidepressants on sexual function and behavior, or in depressive symptom alleviation. However, most of the studies omit to investigate antidepressants' effects on circulating levels of gonadal hormones. From data reviewed herein, it is evident that most antidepressants can influence testosterone and estrogen levels. Still, the evidence is conflicting with some studies showing an increase, others decrease or no effect. Most studies are conducted in male animals or humans, underscoring the importance of considering sex as an important variable in such investigations, especially as depression and anxiety disorders are more common in women than men. Therefore, research is needed to elucidate the extent to which antidepressants can influence both peripheral and brain levels of testosterone and estrogens, in males and females, and whether this impacts the effectiveness or side effects of antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlina Pavlidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kokras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Dalla
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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25
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Raloxifene as Treatment for Various Types of Brain Injuries and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Good Start. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207586. [PMID: 33066585 PMCID: PMC7589740 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) raloxifene had pronounced protective effects against progressing brain damage after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice. These studies, indicating beneficial effects of raloxifene for brain health, prompted the study of the history and present state of knowledge of this topic. It appears that, apart from raloxifene, to date, four nonrelated compounds have shown comparable beneficial effects—fucoidan, pifithrin, SMM-189 (5-dihydroxy-phenyl]-phenyl-methanone), and translocator protein (TSPO) ligands. Raloxifene, however, is ahead of the field, as for more than two decades it has been used in medical practice for various chronic ailments in humans. Thus, apart from different types of animal and cell culture studies, it has also been assessed in various human clinical trials, including assaying its effects on mild cognitive impairments. Regarding cell types, raloxifene protects neurons from cell death, prevents glial activation, ameliorates myelin damage, and maintains health of endothelial cells. At whole central nervous system (CNS) levels, raloxifene ameliorated mild cognitive impairments, as seen in clinical trials, and showed beneficial effects in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. Moreover, with stroke and TBI in animal models, raloxifene showed curative effects. Furthermore, raloxifene showed healing effects regarding multiple sclerosis (MS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in cell culture. The adverse biological signals typical of these conditions relate to neuronal activity, neurotransmitters and their receptors, plasticity, inflammation, oxidative stress, nitric oxide, calcium homeostasis, cell death, behavioral impairments, etc. Raloxifene favorably modulates these signals toward cell health—on the one hand, by modulating gene expression of the relevant proteins, for example by way of its binding to the cell nuclear estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ (genomic effects) and, on the other hand (nongenomic effects) by modulation of mitochondrial activity, reduction of oxidative stress and programmed cell death, maintaining metabolic balance, degradation of Abeta, and modulation of intracellular cholesterol levels. More specifically regarding Alzheimer’s disease, raloxifene may not cure diagnosed Alzheimer’s disease. However, the onset of Alzheimer’s disease may be delayed or arrested by raloxifene’s capability to attenuate mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is a condition that may precede diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. In this review, relatively new insights are addressed regarding the notion that Alzheimer’s disease can be caused by bacterial (as well as viral) infections, together with the most recent findings that raloxifene can counteract infections of at least some bacterial and viral strains. Thus, here, an overview of potential treatments of neurodegenerative disease by raloxifene is presented, and attention is paid to subcellular molecular biological pathways that may be involved.
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