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Constantin S, Quignon C, Pizano K, Shostak DM, Wray S. Vasoactive intestinal peptide excites GnRH neurons via KCa3.1, a potential player in the slow afterhyperpolarization current. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1354095. [PMID: 38633445 PMCID: PMC11021707 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1354095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an important component of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) which relays circadian information to neuronal populations, including GnRH neurons. Human and animal studies have shown an impact of disrupted daily rhythms (chronic shift work, temporal food restriction, clock gene disruption) on both male and female reproduction and fertility. To date, how VIP modulates GnRH neurons remains unknown. Calcium imaging and electrophysiology on primary GnRH neurons in explants and adult mouse brain slice, respectively, were used to address this question. We found VIP excites GnRH neurons via the VIP receptor, VPAC2. The downstream signaling pathway uses both Gs protein/adenylyl cyclase/protein kinase A (PKA) and phospholipase C/phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) depletion. Furthermore, we identified a UCL2077-sensitive target, likely contributing to the slow afterhyperpolarization current (IAHP), as the PKA and PIP2 depletion target, and the KCa3.1 channel as a specific target. Thus, VIP/VPAC2 provides an example of Gs protein-coupled receptor-triggered excitation in GnRH neurons, modulating GnRH neurons likely via the slow IAHP. The possible identification of KCa3.1 in the GnRH neuron slow IAHP may provide a new therapeutical target for fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - 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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2
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Vastagh C, Farkas I, Csillag V, Watanabe M, Kalló I, Liposits Z. Cholinergic Control of GnRH Neuron Physiology and Luteinizing Hormone Secretion in Male Mice: Involvement of ACh/GABA Cotransmission. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1780232024. [PMID: 38320853 PMCID: PMC10957212 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1780-23.2024] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-synthesizing neurons orchestrate reproduction centrally. Early studies have proposed the contribution of acetylcholine (ACh) to hypothalamic control of reproduction, although the causal mechanisms have not been clarified. Here, we report that in vivo pharmacogenetic activation of the cholinergic system increased the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) in orchidectomized mice. 3DISCO immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy revealed the innervation of GnRH neurons by cholinergic axons. Retrograde viral labeling initiated from GnRH-Cre neurons identified the medial septum and the diagonal band of Broca as exclusive sites of origin for cholinergic afferents of GnRH neurons. In acute brain slices, ACh and carbachol evoked a biphasic effect on the firing rate in GnRH neurons, first increasing and then diminishing it. In the presence of tetrodotoxin, carbachol induced an inward current, followed by a decline in the frequency of miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs), indicating a direct influence on GnRH cells. RT-PCR and whole-cell patch-clamp studies revealed that GnRH neurons expressed both nicotinic (α4β2, α3β4, and α7) and muscarinic (M1-M5) AChRs. The nicotinic AChRs contributed to the nicotine-elicited inward current and the rise in firing rate. Muscarine via M1 and M3 receptors increased, while via M2 and M4 reduced the frequency of both mPSCs and firing. Optogenetic activation of channelrhodopsin-2-tagged cholinergic axons modified GnRH neuronal activity and evoked cotransmission of ACh and GABA from a subpopulation of boutons. These findings confirm that the central cholinergic system regulates GnRH neurons and activates the pituitary-gonadal axis via ACh and ACh/GABA neurotransmissions in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Veronika Csillag
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Imre Kalló
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest H-1083, Hungary
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Lewitus VJ, Blackwell KT. Estradiol Receptors Inhibit Long-Term Potentiation in the Dorsomedial Striatum. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0071-23.2023. [PMID: 37487741 PMCID: PMC10405883 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0071-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Estradiol, a female sex hormone and the predominant form of estrogen, has diverse effects throughout the brain including in learning and memory. Estradiol modulates several types of learning that depend on the dorsomedial striatum (DMS), a subregion of the basal ganglia involved in goal-directed learning, cued action-selection, and motor skills. A cellular basis of learning is synaptic plasticity, and the presence of extranuclear estradiol receptors ERα, ERβ, and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) throughout the DMS suggests that estradiol may influence rapid cellular actions including those involved in plasticity. To test whether estradiol affects synaptic plasticity in the DMS, corticostriatal long-term potentiation (LTP) was induced using theta-burst stimulation (TBS) in ex vivo brain slices from intact male and female C57BL/6 mice. Extracellular field recordings showed that female mice in the diestrous stage of the estrous cycle exhibited LTP similar to male mice, while female mice in estrus did not exhibit LTP. Furthermore, antagonists of ERα or GPER rescued LTP in estrous females and agonists of ERα or GPER reduced LTP in diestrous females. In males, activating ERα but not GPER reduced LTP. These results uncover an inhibitory action of estradiol receptors on cellular learning in the DMS and suggest a cellular mechanism underlying the impairment in certain types of DMS-based learning observed in the presence of high estradiol. Because of the dorsal striatum's role in substance use disorders, these findings may provide a mechanism underlying an estradiol-mediated progression from goal-directed to habitual drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kim T Blackwell
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience PhD Program
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030
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4
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Kim HJJ, Zagzoog A, Black T, Baccetto SL, Laprairie RB. Molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying brain region-specific endocannabinoid system modulation by estradiol across the rodent estrus cycle. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 195:27-45. [PMID: 36707154 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Neurological crosstalk between the endocannabinoid and estrogen systems has been a growing topic of discussion over the last decade. Although the main estrogenic ligand, estradiol (E2), influences endocannabinoid signaling in both male and female animals, the latter experiences significant and rhythmic fluctuations in E2 as well as other sex hormones. This is referred to as the menstrual cycle in women and the estrus cycle in rodents such as mice and rats. Consisting of 4 distinct hormone-driven phases, the rodent estrus cycle modulates both endocannabinoid and exogenous cannabinoid signaling resulting in unique behavioral outcomes based on the cycle phase. For example, cannabinoid receptor agonist-induced antinociception is greatest during proestrus and estrus, when circulating and brain levels of E2 are high, as compared to metestrus and diestrus when E2 concentrations are low. Pain processing occurs throughout the cerebral cortex and amygdala of the forebrain; periaqueductal grey of the midbrain; and medulla and spine of the hindbrain. As a result, past molecular investigations on these endocannabinoid-estrogen system interactions have focused on these specific brain regions. Here, we will bridge regional molecular trends with neurophysiological evidence of how plasma membrane estrogen receptor (ER) activation by E2 leads to postsynaptic endocannabinoid synthesis, retrograde signaling, and alterations in inhibitory neurotransmission. These signaling pathways depend on ER heterodimers, current knowledge of which will also be detailed in this review. Overall, the aim of this review article is to systematically summarize how the cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoids change in expression and function in specific brain regions throughout the estrus cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ji J Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Sarah L Baccetto
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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Constantin S, Moenter SM, Piet R. The electrophysiologic properties of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13073. [PMID: 34939256 PMCID: PMC9163209 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
For about two decades, recordings of identified gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons have provided a wealth of information on their properties. We describe areas of consensus and debate the intrinsic electrophysiologic properties of these cells, their response to fast synaptic and neuromodulatory input, Ca2+ imaging correlates of action potential firing, and signaling pathways regulating these aspects. How steroid feedback and development change these properties, functions of GnRH neuron subcompartments and local networks, as revealed by chemo- and optogenetic approaches, are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD 20892-3703, USA
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Departments of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Richard Piet
- Brain Health Research Institute & Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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6
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Peart DR, Andrade AK, Logan CN, Knackstedt LA, Murray JE. Regulation of Cocaine-related Behaviors by Estrogen and Progesterone. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104584. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Sexually Dimorphic Neurosteroid Synthesis Regulates Neuronal Activity in the Murine Brain. J Neurosci 2021; 41:9177-9191. [PMID: 34561233 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0885-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones act on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons to regulate reproductive neural circuits in the brain. Kisspeptin neurons start to express estrogen receptors in utero, suggesting steroid hormone action on these cells early during development. Whether neurosteroids are locally produced in the embryonic brain and impinge onto kisspeptin/reproductive neural circuitry is not known. To address this question, we analyzed aromatase expression, a key enzyme in estrogen synthesis, in male and female mouse embryos. We identified an aromatase neuronal network comprising ∼6000 neurons in the hypothalamus and amygdala. By birth, this network has become sexually dimorphic in a cluster of aromatase neurons in the arcuate nucleus adjacent to kisspeptin neurons. We demonstrate that male arcuate aromatase neurons convert testosterone to estrogen to regulate kisspeptin neuron activity. We provide spatiotemporal information on aromatase neuronal network development and highlight a novel mechanism whereby aromatase neurons regulate the activity of distinct neuronal populations expressing estrogen receptors.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Sex steroid hormones, such as estradiol, are important regulators of neural circuits controlling reproductive physiology in the brain. Embryonic kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus express steroid hormone receptors, suggesting hormone action on these cells in utero Whether neurosteroids are locally produced in the brain and impinge onto reproductive neural circuitry is insufficiently understood. To address this question, we analyzed aromatase expression, a key enzyme in estradiol synthesis, in mouse embryos and identified a network comprising ∼6000 neurons in the brain. By birth, this network has become sexually dimorphic in a cluster of aromatase neurons in the arcuate nucleus adjacent to kisspeptin neurons. We demonstrate that male aromatase neurons convert testosterone to estradiol to regulate kisspeptin neuron activity.
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8
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Godó S, Barabás K, Lengyel F, Ernszt D, Kovács T, Kecskés M, Varga C, Jánosi TZ, Makkai G, Kovács G, Orsolits B, Fujiwara T, Kusumi A, Ábrahám IM. Single-Molecule Imaging Reveals Rapid Estradiol Action on the Surface Movement of AMPA Receptors in Live Neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:708715. [PMID: 34631701 PMCID: PMC8495425 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.708715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadal steroid 17β-estradiol (E2) exerts rapid, non-genomic effects on neurons and strictly regulates learning and memory through altering glutamatergic neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. However, its non-genomic effects on AMPARs are not well understood. Here, we analyzed the rapid effect of E2 on AMPARs using single-molecule tracking and super-resolution imaging techniques. We found that E2 rapidly decreased the surface movement of AMPAR via membrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) in neurites in a dose-dependent manner. The cortical actin network played a pivotal role in the GPER1 mediated effects of E2 on the surface mobility of AMPAR. E2 also decreased the surface movement of AMPAR both in synaptic and extrasynaptic regions on neurites and increased the synaptic dwell time of AMPARs. Our results provide evidence for understanding E2 action on neuronal plasticity and glutamatergic neurotransmission at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Godó
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Klaudia Barabás
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Lengyel
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dávid Ernszt
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kovács
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Miklós Kecskés
- PTE-NAP Cortical Microcircuits Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Csaba Varga
- PTE-NAP Cortical Microcircuits Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Z Jánosi
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Géza Makkai
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Kovács
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Barbara Orsolits
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Takahiro Fujiwara
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihiro Kusumi
- Membrane Cooperativity Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Onna, Japan
| | - István M Ábrahám
- PTE-NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Center, Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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9
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Jin X, Kim WB, Kim MN, Jung WW, Kang HK, Hong EH, Kim YS, Shim WJ, Han HC, Colwell CS, Kim YB, Kim YI. Oestrogen inhibits salt-dependent hypertension by suppressing GABAergic excitation in magnocellular AVP neurons. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:2263-2274. [PMID: 32960965 PMCID: PMC10616626 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Abundant evidence indicates that oestrogen (E2) plays a protective role against hypertension. Yet, the mechanism underlying the antihypertensive effect of E2 is poorly understood. In this study, we sought to determine the mechanism through which E2 inhibits salt-dependent hypertension. METHODS AND RESULTS To this end, we performed a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments employing a rat model of hypertension that is produced by deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt treatment after uninephrectomy. We found that E2 prevented DOCA-salt treatment from inducing hypertension, raising plasma arginine-vasopressin (AVP) level, enhancing the depressor effect of the V1a receptor antagonist (Phenylac1,D-Tyr(Et)2,Lys6,Arg8,des-Gly9)-vasopressin, and converting GABAergic inhibition to excitation in hypothalamic magnocellular AVP neurons. Moreover, we obtained results indicating that the E2 modulation of the activity and/or expression of NKCC1 (Cl- importer) and KCC2 (Cl- extruder) underpins the effect of E2 on the transition of GABAergic transmission in AVP neurons. Lastly, we discovered that, in DOCA-salt-treated hypertensive ovariectomized rats, CLP290 (prodrug of the KCC2 activator CLP257, intraperitoneal injections) lowered blood pressure, and plasma AVP level and hyperpolarized GABA equilibrium potential to prevent GABAergic excitation from emerging in the AVP neurons of these animals. CONCLUSION Based on these results, we conclude that E2 inhibits salt-dependent hypertension by suppressing GABAergic excitation to decrease the hormonal output of AVP neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyan Jin
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Woong Bin Kim
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Na Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Section, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Woo Jung
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Kyung Kang
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hwa Hong
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Sik Kim
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan Joo Shim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Section, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Chul Han
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Christopher S Colwell
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Young-Beom Kim
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
| | - Yang In Kim
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Institute, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Seoul 136-705, Republic of Korea
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Wilheim T, Nagy K, Mohanraj M, Ziarniak K, Watanabe M, Sliwowska J, Kalló I. Expression of type one cannabinoid receptor in different subpopulation of kisspeptin neurons and kisspeptin afferents to GnRH neurons in female mice. Brain Struct Funct 2021; 226:2387-2399. [PMID: 34263407 PMCID: PMC8354884 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-021-02339-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoids have been shown to target the afferents of hypothalamic neurons via cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1) and thereby to influence their excitability at various physiological and/or pathological processes. Kisspeptin (KP) neurons form afferents of multiple neuroendocrine cells and influence their activity via signaling through a variation of co-expressed classical neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. The differential potency of endocannabinoids to influence the release of classical transmitters or neuropeptides, and the ovarian cycle-dependent functioning of the endocannabinoid signaling in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons initiated us to study whether (a) the different subpopulations of KP neurons express CB1 mRNAs, (b) the expression is influenced by estrogen, and (c) CB1-immunoreactivity is present in the KP afferents to GnRH neurons. The aim of the study was to investigate the site- and cell-specific expression of CB1 in female mice using multiple labeling in situ hybridization and immunofluorescent histochemical techniques. The results support that CB1 mRNAs are expressed by both the GABAergic and glutamatergic subpopulations of KP neurons, the receptor protein is detectable in two-thirds of the KP afferents to GnRH neurons, and the expression of CB1 mRNA shows an estrogen-dependency. The applied estrogen-treatment, known to induce proestrus, reduced the level of CB1 transcripts in the rostral periventricular area of the third ventricle and arcuate nucleus, and differently influenced its co-localization with vesicular GABA transporter or vesicular glutamate transporter-2 in KP neurons. This indicates a gonadal cycle-dependent role of endocannabinoid signaling in the neuronal circuits involving KP neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Wilheim
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, P.O. Box 67, Budapest, 1450, Hungary
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Nagy
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, P.O. Box 67, Budapest, 1450, Hungary
| | - Mahendravarman Mohanraj
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, P.O. Box 67, Budapest, 1450, Hungary
| | - Kamil Ziarniak
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Zoology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Joanna Sliwowska
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Zoology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Imre Kalló
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, P.O. Box 67, Budapest, 1450, Hungary.
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Neurosciences "János Szentágothai", Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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11
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Zhang M, Weiland H, Schöfbänker M, Zhang W. Estrogen Receptors Alpha and Beta Mediate Synaptic Transmission in the PFC and Hippocampus of Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031485. [PMID: 33540803 PMCID: PMC7867372 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Distinct from ovarian estradiol, the steroid hormone 17ß-estradiol (E2) is produced in the brain and is involved in numerous functions, particularly acting as a neurosteroid. However, the physiological role of E2 and the mechanism of its effects are not well known. In hippocampal slices, 17ß-estradiol has been found to cause a modest increase in fast glutamatergic transmission; because some of these effects are rapid and acute, they might be mediated by membrane-associated receptors via nongenomic action. Moreover, activation of membrane estrogen receptors can rapidly modulate neuron function in a sex-specific manner. To further investigate the neurological role of E2, we examined the effect of E2, as an estrogen receptor (ER) agonist, on synaptic transmission in slices of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus in both male and female mice. Whole-cell recordings of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSC) in the PFC showed that E2 acts as a neuromodulator in glutamatergic transmission in the PFC in both sexes, but often in a cell-specific manner. The sEPSC amplitude and/or frequency responded to E2 in three ways, namely by significantly increasing, decreasing or having no response. Additional experiments using an agonist selective for ERß, diarylpropionitrile (DPN) showed that in males the sEPSC and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents sIPSC responses were similar to their E2 responses, but in females the estrogen receptor ß (ERß) agonist DPN did not influence excitatory transmission in the PFC. In contrast, in the hippocampus of both sexes E2 potentiated the gluatmatergic synaptic transmission in a subset of hippocampal cells. These data indicate that activation of E2 targeting probably a estrogen subtypes or different downstream signaling affect synaptic transmission in the brain PFC and hippocampus between males versus females mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Zhang
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-2518-351-824; Fax: +49-2518-357-123
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12
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The Complex Interplay between Endocannabinoid System and the Estrogen System in Central Nervous System and Periphery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020972. [PMID: 33478092 PMCID: PMC7835826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid cell signaling system involved in the physiology and homeostasis of the brain and peripheral tissues. Synaptic plasticity, neuroendocrine functions, reproduction, and immune response among others all require the activity of functional ECS, with the onset of disease in case of ECS impairment. Estrogens, classically considered as female steroid hormones, regulate growth, differentiation, and many other functions in a broad range of target tissues and both sexes through the activation of nuclear and membrane estrogen receptors (ERs), which leads to genomic and non-genomic cell responses. Since ECS function overlaps or integrates with many other cell signaling systems, this review aims at updating the knowledge about the possible crosstalk between ECS and estrogen system (ES) at both central and peripheral level, with focuses on the central nervous system, reproduction, and cancer.
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Vastagh C, Csillag V, Solymosi N, Farkas I, Liposits Z. Gonadal Cycle-Dependent Expression of Genes Encoding Peptide-, Growth Factor-, and Orphan G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in Gonadotropin- Releasing Hormone Neurons of Mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 13:594119. [PMID: 33551743 PMCID: PMC7863983 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.594119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rising serum estradiol triggers the surge release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) at late proestrus leading to ovulation. We hypothesized that proestrus evokes alterations in peptidergic signaling onto GnRH neurons inducing a differential expression of neuropeptide-, growth factor-, and orphan G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) genes. Thus, we analyzed the transcriptome of GnRH neurons collected from intact, proestrous and metestrous GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GnRH-GFP) transgenic mice using Affymetrix microarray technique. Proestrus resulted in a differential expression of genes coding for peptide/neuropeptide receptors including Adipor1, Prokr1, Ednrb, Rtn4r, Nmbr, Acvr2b, Sctr, Npr3, Nmur1, Mc3r, Cckbr, and Amhr2. In this gene cluster, Adipor1 mRNA expression was upregulated and the others were downregulated. Expression of growth factor receptors and their related proteins was also altered showing upregulation of Fgfr1, Igf1r, Grb2, Grb10, and Ngfrap1 and downregulation of Egfr and Tgfbr2 genes. Gpr107, an orphan GPCR, was upregulated during proestrus, while others were significantly downregulated (Gpr1, Gpr87, Gpr18, Gpr62, Gpr125, Gpr183, Gpr4, and Gpr88). Further affected receptors included vomeronasal receptors (Vmn1r172, Vmn2r-ps54, and Vmn1r148) and platelet-activating factor receptor (Ptafr), all with marked downregulation. Patch-clamp recordings from mouse GnRH-GFP neurons carried out at metestrus confirmed that the differentially expressed IGF-1, secretin, and GPR107 receptors were operational, as their activation by specific ligands evoked an increase in the frequency of miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs). These findings show the contribution of certain novel peptides, growth factors, and ligands of orphan GPCRs to regulation of GnRH neurons and their preparation for the surge release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Veronika Csillag
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Roska Tamás Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Norbert Solymosi
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Imre Farkas
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
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de Ávila C, Chometton S, Calvez J, Guèvremont G, Kania A, Torz L, Lenglos C, Blasiak A, Rosenkilde MM, Holst B, Conrad CD, Fryer JD, Timofeeva E, Gundlach AL, Cifani C. Estrous Cycle Modulation of Feeding and Relaxin-3/Rxfp3 mRNA Expression: Implications for Estradiol Action. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:1201-1218. [PMID: 33333517 DOI: 10.1159/000513830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Food intake varies during the ovarian hormone/estrous cycle in humans and rodents, an effect mediated mainly by estradiol. A potential mediator of the central anorectic effects of estradiol is the neuropeptide relaxin-3 (RLN3) synthetized in the nucleus incertus (NI) and acting via the relaxin family peptide-3 receptor (RXFP3). METHODS We investigated the relationship between RLN3/RXFP3 signaling and feeding behavior across the female rat estrous cycle. We used in situ hybridization to investigate expression patterns of Rln3 mRNA in NI and Rxfp3 mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), lateral hypothalamic area (LHA), medial preoptic area (MPA), and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), across the estrous cycle. We identified expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) in the NI using droplet digital PCR and assessed the electrophysiological responsiveness of NI neurons to estradiol in brain slices. RESULTS Rln3 mRNA reached the lowest levels in the NI pars compacta during proestrus. Rxfp3 mRNA levels varied across the estrous cycle in a region-specific manner, with changes observed in the perifornical LHA, magnocellular PVN, dorsal BNST, and MPA, but not in the parvocellular PVN or lateral LHA. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (Gper1) mRNA was the most abundant ER transcript in the NI. Estradiol inhibited 33% of type 1 NI neurons, including RLN3-positive cells. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that the RLN3/RXFP3 system is modulated by the estrous cycle, and although further studies are required to better elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of estradiol signaling, current results implicate the involvement of the RLN3/RXFP3 system in food intake fluctuations observed across the estrous cycle in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila de Ávila
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada,
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA,
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA,
| | - Sandrine Chometton
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Juliane Calvez
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Geneviève Guèvremont
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Alan Kania
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lola Torz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF CBMR, Nutrient and Metabolite Sensing, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christophe Lenglos
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Anna Blasiak
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Mette M Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF CBMR, Nutrient and Metabolite Sensing, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cheryl D Conrad
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - John D Fryer
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - Elena Timofeeva
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Andrew L Gundlach
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carlo Cifani
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, CRIUCPQ, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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15
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Xu ZZ, Chen QY, Deng SY, Zhang M, Tan CY, Yang Wang, Ma KT, Li L, Si JQ, Zhu LC. 17β-Estradiol Attenuates Neuropathic Pain Caused by Spared Nerve Injury by Upregulating CIC-3 in the Dorsal Root Ganglion of Ovariectomized Rats. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1205. [PMID: 31787875 PMCID: PMC6856564 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-estradiol plays a role in pain sensitivity, analgesic drug efficacy, and neuropathic pain prevalence, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether voltage-gated chloride channel-3 (ClC-3) impacts the effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) on spared nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain in ovariectomized (OVX) female Sprague Dawley rats that were divided into OVX, OVX + SNI, OVX + SNI + E2, OVX + SNI + E2 + DMSO (vehicle, dimethyl sulfoxide), or OVX + SNI + E2+Cltx (ClC-3-blocker chlorotoxin) groups. Changes in ClC-3 protein expression were monitored by western blot analysis. Behavioral testing used the paw withdrawal threshold to acetone irritation and paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) to thermal stimulation. Immunofluorescence indicated the localization and protein expression levels of ClC-3. OVX + SNI + E2 rats were subcutaneously injected with 17β-estradiol once daily for 7 days; a sheathed tube was implanted, and chlorotoxin was injected for 4 days. Intrathecal Cltx to OVX and OVX + SNI rats was administered for 4 consecutive days (days 7–10 after SNI) to further determine the contribution of ClC-3 to neuropathic pain. Patch clamp technology in current clamp mode was used to measure the current threshold (rheobase) dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and the minimal current that evoked action potentials (APs) as excitability parameters. The mean number of APs at double-strength rheobase verified neuronal excitability. There was no difference in behaviors and ClC-3 expression after OVX. Compared with OVX + SNI rats, OVX + SNI + E2 rats showed a lower paw withdrawal threshold to the acetone stimulus, but the PWTL was not significantly different, indicating increased sensitivity to cold but not to thermal pain. Co-immunofluorescent data revealed that ClC-3 was mainly distributed in A- and C-type nociceptive neurons, especially in medium/small-sized neurons. 17β-estradiol administration was associated with increased expression of ClC-3. 17β-estradiol-induced increase in ClC-3 expression was blocked by co-administration of Cltx. Cltx causes hyperalgesia and decreased expression of ClC-3 in OVX rats. Patch clamp results suggested that 17β-estradiol attenuated the excitability of neurons induced by SNI by up-regulating the expression of ClC-3 in the DRG of OVX rats. 17β-estradiol administration significantly improved cold allodynia thresholds in OVX rats with SNI. The mechanism for this decreased sensitivity may be related to the upregulation of ClC-3 expression in the DRG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Qin-Yi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Shi-Yu Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Chao-Yang Tan
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University School of Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Li-Cang Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China.,Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Disease, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
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Walker OLS, Holloway AC, Raha S. The role of the endocannabinoid system in female reproductive tissues. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:3. [PMID: 30646937 PMCID: PMC6332911 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0478-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in the role of endocannabinoids as critical modulators of the female reproductive processes. Endocannabinoids are natural ligands of cannabinoid, vanilloid, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Together with their receptors, enzymes and downstream signaling targets, they form the endocannabinoid system (ECS). While the ECS is known to modulate pain and neurodevelopment, it is also known to impact the female reproductive system where it affects folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and ovarian endocrine secretion. In addition, the ECS affects oviductal embryo transport, implantation, uterine decidualization and placentation. There is a complex interplay between the ECS and the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, and an intricate crosstalk between the ECS and steroid hormone production and secretion. Exogenous cannabinoids, derived from plants such as Cannabis sativa, are also ligands for cannabinoid receptors. These have been shown to have clinical outcomes related to ECS dysregulation, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, along with adverse effects on female reproduction. The aim of this review is to describe and discuss data from human, animal, and in vitro studies that support the important role of the endocannabinoid system in female reproductive tissues and processes. In particular, we will discuss some of the mechanisms by which endocannabinoid signaling can affect ovarian function in both physiological and pathophysiological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- O’ Llenecia S. Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N11H, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Alison C. Holloway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N52A, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Sandeep Raha
- Department of Pediatrics, and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N11H, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
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17
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Acevedo-Rodriguez A, Kauffman AS, Cherrington BD, Borges CS, Roepke TA, Laconi M. Emerging insights into hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis regulation and interaction with stress signalling. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30. [PMID: 29524268 PMCID: PMC6129417 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction and fertility are regulated via hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Control of this reproductive axis occurs at all levels, including the brain and pituitary, and allows for the promotion or inhibition of gonadal sex steroid secretion and function. In addition to guiding proper gonadal development and function, gonadal sex steroids also act in negative- and positive-feedback loops to regulate reproductive circuitry in the brain, including kisspeptin neurones, thereby modulating overall HPG axis status. Additional regulation is also provided by sex steroids made within the brain, including neuroprogestins. Furthermore, because reproduction and survival need to be coordinated and balanced, the HPG axis is able to modulate (and be modulated by) stress hormone signalling, including cortiscosterone, from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This review covers recent data related to the neural, hormonal and stress regulation of the HPG axis and emerging interactions between the HPG and HPA axes, focusing on actions at the level of the brain and pituitary.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Acevedo-Rodriguez
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A S Kauffman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - B D Cherrington
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - C S Borges
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - T A Roepke
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Laconi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET), Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Ambientales, Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
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18
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Spergel DJ. Neuropeptidergic modulation of GnRH neuronal activity and GnRH secretion controlling reproduction: insights from recent mouse studies. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:179-191. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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19
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Estradiol Increases Glutamate and GABA Neurotransmission into GnRH Neurons via Retrograde NO-Signaling in Proestrous Mice during the Positive Estradiol Feedback Period. eNeuro 2018; 5:eN-NWR-0057-18. [PMID: 30079374 PMCID: PMC6073979 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0057-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Surge release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is essential in the activation of pituitary gonadal unit at proestrus afternoon preceded by the rise of serum 17β-estradiol (E2) level during positive feedback period. Here, we describe a mechanism of positive estradiol feedback regulation acting directly on GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GFP) neurons of mice. Whole-cell clamp and loose patch recordings revealed that a high physiological dose of estradiol (200 pM), significantly increased firing rate at proestrus afternoon. The mPSC frequency at proestrus afternoon also increased, whereas it decreased at metestrus afternoon and had no effect at proestrus morning. Inhibition of the estrogen receptor β (ERβ), intracellular blockade of the Src kinase and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) and scavenge of nitric oxide (NO) inside GnRH neurons prevented the facilitatory estradiol effect indicating involvement of the ERβ/Src/PI3K/Akt/nNOS pathway in this fast, direct stimulatory effect. Immunohistochemistry localized soluble guanylate cyclase, the main NO receptor, in both glutamatergic and GABAergic terminals innervating GnRH neurons. Accordingly, estradiol facilitated neurotransmissions to GnRH neurons via both GABAA-R and glutamate/AMPA/kainate-R. These results indicate that estradiol acts directly on GnRH neurons via the ERβ/Akt/nNOS pathway at proestrus afternoon generating NO that retrogradely accelerates GABA and glutamate release from the presynaptic terminals contacting GnRH neurons. The newly explored mechanism might contribute to the regulation of the GnRH surge, a fundamental prerequisite of the ovulation.
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20
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Spool JA, Jay MD, Riters LV. Nest box exploration may stimulate breeding physiology and alter mRNA expression in the medial preoptic area of female European starlings. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:jeb.174441. [PMID: 29695491 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.174441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Environmental resources are proposed to fine-tune the timing of breeding, yet how they may do so remains unclear. In female European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), nest cavities are limited resources that are necessary for breeding. Females that explore nest cavities, compared with those that do not, readily perform sexually motivated behaviors. We assigned female starlings to aviaries with: (1) no nest boxes, (2) nest boxes, or (3) nest boxes, plants, flowing water, insects and berries to test the hypothesis that environmental resources alter neural systems to stimulate mating behavior. Compared with other females, females that were housed with and explored nest boxes had higher estradiol, higher preproenkephalin (PENK) mRNA and lower levels of D1 and D2 dopamine receptor mRNA in the medial preoptic area (mPOA); a region in which opioids and dopamine modify female sexual behaviors and sexual motivation. Additionally, in the mPOA, PENK and tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA positively predicted, whereas estrogen receptor beta mRNA negatively predicted, nest box exploration. In the ventromedial hypothalamus (a region in which estradiol acts to stimulate sexual behavior), estrogen receptor alpha mRNA was highest in females that had access to but did not explore nest cavities. It is likely that seasonal increases in estradiol modify mRNA in the mPOA to facilitate nest cavity exploration. It is also possible that nest cavity exploration further alters gene expression in the mPOA, functioning to coordinate mating with resource availability. Thus, nest cavity exploration may be a form of self-stimulation that alters neural systems to fine-tune sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Spool
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Melannie D Jay
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Lauren V Riters
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Surkin PN, Di Rosso ME, Correa F, Elverdin JC, Genaro AM, De Laurentiis A, Fernández-Solari J. Participation of hypothalamic CB1 receptors in reproductive axis disruption during immune challenge. J Neuroendocrinol 2017; 29. [PMID: 28665507 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Immune challenge inhibits reproductive function and endocannabinoids (eCB) modulate sexual hormones. However, no studies have been performed to assess whether the eCB system mediates the inhibition of hormones that control reproduction as a result of immune system activation during systemic infections. For that reason, we evaluated the participation of the hypothalamic cannabinoid receptor CB1 on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activity in rats submitted to immune challenge. Male adult rats were treated i.c.v. administration with a CB1 antagonist/inverse agonist (AM251) (500 ng/5 μL), followed by an i.p. injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 mg/kg) 15 minutes later. Plasmatic, hypothalamic and adenohypophyseal pro-inflammatory cytokines, hormones and neuropeptides were assessed 90 or 180 minutes post-LPS. The plasma concentration of tumour necrosis factor α and adenohypophyseal mRNA expression of Tnfα and Il1β increased 90 and 180 minutes post i.p. administration of LPS. However, cytokine mRNA expression in the hypothalamus increased only 180 minutes post-LPS, suggesting an inflammatory delay in this organ. CB1 receptor blockade with AM251 increased LPS inflammatory effects, particularly in the hypothalamus. LPS also inhibited the HPG axis by decreasing gonadotrophin-releasing hormone hypothalamic content and plasma levels of luteinising hormone and testosterone. These disruptor effects were accompanied by decreased hypothalamic Kiss1 mRNA expression and prostaglandin E2 content, as well as by increased gonadotrophin-inhibitory hormone (Rfrp3) mRNA expression. All these disruptive effects were prevented by the presence of AM251. In summary, our results suggest that, in male rats, eCB mediate immune challenge-inhibitory effects on reproductive axis at least partially via hypothalamic CB1 activation. In addition, this receptor also participates in homeostasis recovery by modulating the inflammatory process taking place after LPS administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- P N Surkin
- Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M E Di Rosso
- Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina (UCA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (BIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F Correa
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J C Elverdin
- Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A M Genaro
- Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina (UCA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (BIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A De Laurentiis
- Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J Fernández-Solari
- Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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