1
|
Memi E, Pavli P, Papagianni M, Vrachnis N, Mastorakos G. Diagnostic and therapeutic use of oral micronized progesterone in endocrinology. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024; 25:751-772. [PMID: 38652231 PMCID: PMC11294403 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-024-09882-0] [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] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Progesterone is a natural steroid hormone, while progestins are synthetic molecules. In the female reproductive system, progesterone contributes to the control of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone secretion and their pulsatility, via its receptors on the kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin neurons in the hypothalamus. Progesterone together with estradiol controls the cyclic changes of proliferation and decidualization of the endometrium; exerts anti-mitogenic actions on endometrial epithelial cells; regulates normal menstrual bleeding; contributes to fertilization and pregnancy maintenance; participates in the onset of labor. In addition, it exerts numerous effects on other endocrine systems. Micronized progesterone (MP) is natural progesterone with increased bioavailability, due to its pharmacotechnical micronized structure, which makes it an attractive diagnostic and therapeutic tool. This critical literature review aims to summarize and put forward the potential diagnostic and therapeutic uses of MP in the field of endocrinology. During reproductive life, MP is used for diagnostic purposes in the evaluation of primary or secondary amenorrhea as a challenge test. Moreover, it can be prescribed to women presenting with amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea for induction of withdrawal bleeding, in order to time blood-sampling for diagnostic purposes in early follicular phase. Therapeutically, MP, alone or combined with estrogens, is a useful tool in various endocrine disorders including primary amenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding due to disordered ovulation, luteal phase deficiency, premenstrual syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, secondary amenorrhea [functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, premature ovarian insufficiency], perimenopause and menopause. When administrated per os, acting as a neurosteroid directly or through its metabolites, it exerts beneficial effects on brain function such as alleviation of symptoms of anxiety and depression, asw well as of sleep problems, while it improves working memory in peri- and menopausal women. Micronized progesterone preserves full potential of progesterone activity, without presenting many of the side-effects of progestins. Although it has been associated with more frequent drowsiness and dizziness, it can be well tolerated with nocturnal administration. Because of its better safety profile, especially with regard to metabolic ailments, breast cancer risk and veno-thromboembolism risk, MP is the preferred option for individuals with an increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and of all-cause mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Memi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes mellitus, and Metabolism, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sophias Av. 76, 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Pavli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes mellitus, and Metabolism, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sophias Av. 76, 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Papagianni
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42100, Trikala, Greece
- Endocrine Unit, 3rd Department of Pediatrics, Hippokration Hospital of Thessaloniki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Vrachnis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Rimini Str. 1, 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
- St George's NHS Foundation Trust Teaching Hospitals, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - George Mastorakos
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes mellitus, and Metabolism, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sophias Av. 76, 11528, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tremolanti C, Angeloni E, Da Pozzo E, Germelli L, Giacomelli C, Scalzi E, Taliani S, Da Settimo F, Mensah-Nyagan AG, Martini C, Costa B. Human oligodendrocyte-like cell differentiation is promoted by TSPO-mediated endogenous steroidogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167174. [PMID: 38631406 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Mature oligodendrocytes (OLs) arise from oligodendrocyte precursor cells that, in case of demyelination, are recruited at the lesion site to remyelinate the axons and therefore restore the transmission of nerve impulses. It has been widely documented that exogenously administered steroid molecules are potent inducers of myelination. However, little is known about how neurosteroids produced de novo by OLs can impact this process. Here, we employed a human OL precursor cell line to investigate the role of de novo neurosteroidogenesis in the regulation of OLs differentiation, paying particular attention to the 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO) which controls the rate-limiting step of the neurosteroidogenic process. Our results showed that, over the time of OL maturation, the availability of cholesterol, which is the neurosteroidogenesis initial substrate, and key members of the neurosteroidogenic machinery, including TSPO, were upregulated. In addition, OLs differentiation was impaired following neurosteroidogenesis inhibition and TSPO silencing. On the contrary, TSPO pharmacological stimulation promoted neurosteroidogenic function and positively impacted differentiation. Collectively, our results suggest that de novo neurosteroidogenesis is actively involved in the autocrine and paracrine regulation of human OL differentiation. Moreover, since TSPO was able to promote OL differentiation through a positive modulation of the neurosteroid biosynthetic process, it could be exploited as a promising target to tackle demyelinating diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Tremolanti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Elisa Angeloni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Da Pozzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa. Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Germelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Chiara Giacomelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa. Italy.
| | - Eduardo Scalzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Federico Da Settimo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa. Italy.
| | - Ayikoé-Guy Mensah-Nyagan
- Biopathologie de la Myéline, Neuroprotection et Stratégies Thérapeutiques, INSERM U1119, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Bâtiment CRBS de la Faculté de Médecine, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67 000 Strasbourg, France.
| | - Claudia Martini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa. Italy.
| | - Barbara Costa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa. Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Izhiman Y, Esfandiari L. Emerging role of extracellular vesicles and exogenous stimuli in molecular mechanisms of peripheral nerve regeneration. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1368630. [PMID: 38572074 PMCID: PMC10989355 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1368630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries lead to significant morbidity and adversely affect quality of life. The peripheral nervous system harbors the unique trait of autonomous regeneration; however, achieving successful regeneration remains uncertain. Research continues to augment and expedite successful peripheral nerve recovery, offering promising strategies for promoting peripheral nerve regeneration (PNR). These include leveraging extracellular vesicle (EV) communication and harnessing cellular activation through electrical and mechanical stimulation. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), 30-150 nm in diameter, play a pivotal role in regulating intercellular communication within the regenerative cascade, specifically among nerve cells, Schwann cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts. Furthermore, the utilization of exogenous stimuli, including electrical stimulation (ES), ultrasound stimulation (US), and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), offers remarkable advantages in accelerating and augmenting PNR. Moreover, the application of mechanical and electrical stimuli can potentially affect the biogenesis and secretion of sEVs, consequently leading to potential improvements in PNR. In this review article, we comprehensively delve into the intricacies of cell-to-cell communication facilitated by sEVs and the key regulatory signaling pathways governing PNR. Additionally, we investigated the broad-ranging impacts of ES, US, and ESWT on PNR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yara Izhiman
- Esfandiari Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Leyla Esfandiari
- Esfandiari Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ozcan E, Akduman RC, Eyupoglu S, Bingol A, Balci Ekmekci O, Hatipoglu E. 5 -Alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone may contribute to perceptual processing and attention of the cases with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Neurol Res 2024; 46:132-138. [PMID: 37733038 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2023.2258040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids (NSs) are endogenous steroid hormones, which are synthesised and metabolised within the central nervous system (CNS). NSs aid myelination and glial differentiation and modulate cognitive functions. Herein, we aim to investigate the relationship between NS levels, 5-alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone (5-α-DHP) and allopregnanolone (ALPG), and their relationship with cognitive changes in relapsing remitting MS patients.A total of 43 cases with well controlled, relapsing remitting MS composed the study group. The control group included 21 age and gender matched healthy controls (HC). MS patients were assessed by calculating Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, and the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRBNT) was performed in both MS group and HC. Levels of 5-α-DHP and ALPG levels were also evaluated for each participant.The median level of 5-α-DHP was 48 [IQR: 39.2-144.2] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 68.4 [IQR: 57.1-365.9] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.02). The median ALPG level was found to be 56.5 [IQR: 37.7-75.4] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 43.9 [IQR: 29.4-70.2] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.1). In both groups 5-α-DHP levels were positively correlated with Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) scores (HC: p = 0.01, r = 0.3 and MS: p = 0.03, r = 0.3). In the MS group, higher EDSS scores were associated with lower scores on Spatial Recall Test (SPART)-Delayed (p = 0.009, r= -0.4) and SDMT (p = 0.01, r= -0.4). The disease duration was negatively correlated with the scores on SPART-Immediate, SPART-Delayed and SDMT (p = 0.02, r= -0.4; p = 0.005, r= -0.4 and p = 0.05, r= -0.3).5-α-DHP may be lower even in well-controlled cases. 5-α-DHP may contribute to better perceptual processing and attention in cases with MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emin Ozcan
- Department of Neurology, Yeditepe University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Sevim Eyupoglu
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Bingol
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Hatipoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vallée M. Advances in steroid research from the pioneering neurosteroid concept to metabolomics: New insights into pregnenolone function. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101113. [PMID: 37993022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101113] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Advances in neuroendocrinology have led to major discoveries since the 19th century, identifying adaptive loops for maintaining homeostasis. One of the most remarkable discoveries was the concept of neurosteroids, according to which the brain is not only a target but also a source of steroid production. The identification of new membrane steroid targets now underpins the neuromodulatory effects of neurosteroids such as pregnenolone, which is involved in functions mediated by the GPCR CB1 receptor. Structural analysis of steroids is a key feature of their interactions with the phospholipid membrane, receptors and resulting activity. Therefore, mass spectrometry-based methods have been developed to elucidate the metabolic pathways of steroids, the ultimate approach being metabolomics, which allows the identification of a large number of metabolites in a single sample. This approach should enable us to make progress in understanding the role of neurosteroids in the functioning of physiological and pathological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monique Vallée
- University Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, F-33000 Bordeaux, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Soedirdjo SDH, Chung YC, Dhaher YY. Sex hormone mediated change on flexion reflex. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1263756. [PMID: 38188036 PMCID: PMC10768023 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1263756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
It has been shown that estrogen and progesterone receptors are expressed in the spinal cord; therefore, fluctuation in their concentrations may affect the spinal network and modulate the control of movement. Herein, we assessed the neuro-modulatory effect of sex hormones on the polysynaptic spinal network by using a flexion reflex network as a model system. Twenty-four healthy eumenorrheic women (age 21-37 years) were tested every other day for one menstrual cycle. Serum estradiol and progesterone were acquired at the time of testing. The flexion reflex of the tibialis anterior was elicited by sending an innocuous electrical stimulus directly to the posterior tibial nerve or plantar cutaneous afferent. Analyses were performed for each menstrual cycle phase: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Increases in estradiol or progesterone concentrations were not associated with reflex duration or root mean squared (RMS) amplitude in either the follicular or luteal phases. In the luteal phase, an increase in the estradiol concentration was associated with a longer latency of the reflex (b = 0.23, p = 0.038). The estradiol × progesterone interaction was found towards significance (b = -0.017, p = 0.081). These results highlight the potential synergistic effect of estradiol and progesterone and may provide indirect confirmatory evidence of the observed modulatory effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subaryani D. H. Soedirdjo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yu-Chen Chung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yasin Y. Dhaher
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mohamed T, Colciago A, Montagnani Marelli M, Moretti RM, Magnaghi V. Protein kinase C epsilon activation regulates proliferation, migration, and epithelial to mesenchymal-like transition in rat Schwann cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1237479. [PMID: 37645595 PMCID: PMC10461112 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1237479] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Protein kinase type C-ε (PKCε) plays an important role in the sensitization of primary afferent nociceptors, promoting mechanical hyperalgesia. In accordance, we showed that PKCε is present in sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), participating in the control of pain onset and chronification. Recently, it was found that PKCε is also implicated in the control of cell proliferation, promoting mitogenesis and metastatic invasion in some types of cancer. However, its role in the main glial cell of the PNS, the Schwann cells (SCs), was still not investigated. Methods Rat primary SCs culture were treated with different pharmacologic approaches, including the PKCε agonist dicyclopropyl-linoleic acid (DCP-LA) 500 nM, the human recombinant brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) 1 nM and the TrkB receptor antagonist cyclotraxin B 10 nM. The proliferation (by cell count), the migration (by scratch test and Boyden assay) as well as some markers of SCs differentiation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process (by qRT-PCR and western blot) were analyzed. Results Overall, we found that PKCε is constitutively expressed in SCs, where it is likely involved in the switch from the proliferative toward the differentiated state. Indeed, we demonstrated that PKCε activation regulates SCs proliferation, increases their migration, and the expression of some markers (e.g., glycoprotein P0 and the transcription factor Krox20) of SCs differentiation. Through an autocrine mechanism, BDNF activates TrkB receptor, and controls SCs proliferation via PKCε. Importantly, PKCε activation likely promoted a partial EMT process in SCs. Discussion PKCε mediates relevant actions in the neuronal and glial compartment of the PNS. In particular, we posit a novel function for PKCε in the transformation of SCs, assuming a role in the mechanisms controlling SCs' fate and plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tiberio P, Viganò A, Ilieva MB, Pindilli S, Bianchi A, Zambelli A, Santoro A, De Sanctis R. The Role of Female Reproductive Hormones in the Association between Migraine and Breast Cancer: An Unanswered Question. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1613. [PMID: 37371707 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating epidemiological studies have investigated a possible interconnection between migraine (Mi) and breast cancer (BC) because of the strong link between these diseases and female reproductive hormones. This review aims to consolidate findings from epidemiological studies and explore biologically plausible hypothetical mechanisms related to hormonal pathways. Current evidence suggests a protective role of Mi in BC development, particularly in case-control studies but not in cohort ones. The inconsistency among studies may be due to several reasons, including diagnostic criteria for Mi and the age gap between the development of these two diseases. Furthermore, recent research has challenged the concept of a net beneficial effect of Mi on BC, suggesting a more complex relationship between the two conditions. Many polymorphisms/mutations in hormone-related pathways are involved in at least one of the two conditions. The most promising evidence has emerged for a specific alteration in the estrogen receptor 1 gene (rs2228480). However, the possible specific mutation or polymorphism involved in this association has not yet been identified. Further studies with robust methodologies are needed to validate the protective role of Mi in BC and fully elucidate the precise nature of this causal relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Tiberio
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Viganò
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Mariya Boyanova Ilieva
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Anna Bianchi
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Zambelli
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Santoro
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Rita De Sanctis
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Magnaghi V, Bonalume V. Axonal tuning by GABA A receptor unveils novel tricks from an old dog. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:533-534. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
10
|
Wendler A, Wehling M. Many or too many progesterone membrane receptors? Clinical implications. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:850-868. [PMID: 36384863 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Several receptors for nongenomically initiated actions of progesterone (P4) exist, namely membrane-associated P4 receptors (MAPRs), membrane progestin receptors (mPRs), receptors for neurosteroids [GABAA receptor (GABAAR), NMDA receptor, sigma-1 and -2 receptors (S1R/S2R)], the classical genomic P4 receptor (PGR), and α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2). Two drugs related to this field have been approved: brexanolone (Zulresso™) for the treatment of postpartum depression, and ganaxolone (Ztalmy™) for the treatment of CDKL5 deficiency disorder. Both are derivatives of P4 and target the GABAAR. Several other indications are in clinical testing. CT1812 (Elayta™) is also being tested for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Phase 2 clinical trials, targeting the P4 receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1)/S2R complex. In this Review, we highlight emerging knowledge on the mechanisms of nongenomically initiated actions of P4 and its derivatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Wendler
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Wehling
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Szczurowska E, Szánti-Pintér E, Randáková A, Jakubík J, Kudova E. Allosteric Modulation of Muscarinic Receptors by Cholesterol, Neurosteroids and Neuroactive Steroids. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13075. [PMID: 36361865 PMCID: PMC9656441 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors are membrane receptors involved in many physiological processes. Malfunction of muscarinic signaling is a cause of various internal diseases, as well as psychiatric and neurologic conditions. Cholesterol, neurosteroids, neuroactive steroids, and steroid hormones are molecules of steroid origin that, besides having well-known genomic effects, also modulate membrane proteins including muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Here, we review current knowledge on the allosteric modulation of muscarinic receptors by these steroids. We give a perspective on the research on the non-genomic effects of steroidal compounds on muscarinic receptors and drug development, with an aim to ultimately exploit such knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Szczurowska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eszter Szánti-Pintér
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Randáková
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Jakubík
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Kudova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Thomas P, Pang Y, Camilletti MA, Castelnovo LF. Functions of Membrane Progesterone Receptors (mPRs, PAQRs) in Nonreproductive Tissues. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6679267. [PMID: 36041040 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gender differences in a wide variety of physiological parameters have implicated the ovarian hormones, estrogens and progesterone, in the regulation of numerous nonreproductive tissue functions. Rapid, nongenomic (nonclassical) progesterone actions mediated by membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs), which belong to the progestin and adipoQ receptor family, have been extensively investigated in reproductive and nonreproductive tissues since their discovery in fish ovaries 20 years ago. The 5 mPR subtypes (α, β, γ, δ, ε) are widely distributed in vertebrate tissues and are often expressed in the same cells as the nuclear progesterone receptor (PR) and progesterone receptor membrane component 1, thereby complicating investigations of mPR-specific functions. Nevertheless, mPR-mediated progesterone actions have been identified in a wide range of reproductive and nonreproductive tissues and distinguished from nuclear PR-mediated ones by knockdown of these receptors with siRNA in combination with a pharmacological approach using mPR- and PR-specific agonists. There are several recent reviews on the roles of the mPRs in vertebrate reproduction and cancer, but there have been no comprehensive assessments of mPR functions in nonreproductive tissues. Therefore, this article briefly reviews mPR functions in a broad range of nonreproductive tissues. The evidence that mPRs mediate progesterone and progestogen effects on neuroprotection, lordosis behavior, respiratory control of apnea, olfactory responses to pheromones, peripheral nerve regeneration, regulation of prolactin secretion in prolactinoma, immune functions, and protective functions in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells is critically reviewed. The ubiquitous expression of mPRs in vertebrate tissues suggests mPRs regulate many additional nonreproductive functions that remain to be identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| | - Yefei Pang
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| | | | - Luca F Castelnovo
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cáceres ARR, Campo Verde Arboccó F, Cardone DA, Sanhueza MDLÁ, Casais M, Vega Orozco AS, Laconi MR. Superior mesenteric ganglion neural modulation of ovarian angiogenesis, apoptosis and proliferation by the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13056. [PMID: 34739183 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone (ALLO), a potent neuroactive steroid, is synthesized and active in the peripheral nervous system. Previous studies have shown that ALLO participates in the central regulation of reproduction with effects on ovarian physiology, although there is little evidence for its ability to modulate peripheral tissues. The present study aimed to determine whether ALLO, administered to an ex vivo system that comprises the superior mesenteric ganglion (SMG), the ovarian nervous plexus (ONP) and the ovary (O), or to the denervated ovary (DO), was able to modify ovarian apoptosis, proliferation and angiogenesis. For this purpose, the SMG-ONP-O system and DO were incubated during 120 min at 37°C, in the presence of two ALLO doses (0.06 µm and 6 µm). The intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis were analyzed. Incubation of the SMG-ONP-O system with ALLO 0.06 µm led to an increase in the BAX/BCL-2 ratio and a reduction of FAS-L mRNA levels. ALLO 6 µm induced a decrease of FAS-L levels. Incubation of DO with ALLO 0.06 µm reduced FAS-L, whereas ALLO 6 µm significantly increased it. Cyclin D1 mRNA was measured to evaluate proliferation. Treatment with ALLO 6 µm increased proliferation in both SMG-ONP-O and DO. ALLO 0.06 µm produced an increase of Cyclin D1 in DO only. Administration of either ALLO dose led to a higher ovarian expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in the SMG-ONP-O system, but a lower one in the DO system. ALLO 6 µm induced ovarian sensitization to GABA by increasing GABAA receptor expression. In conclusion, ALLO participates in the peripheral neural modulation of ovarian physiology. It can also interact directly with the ovarian tissue, modulating key mechanisms involved in normal and pathological processes in a dose-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Rosario Ramona Cáceres
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Fiorella Campo Verde Arboccó
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Daniela Alejandra Cardone
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María de Los Ángeles Sanhueza
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Marilina Casais
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción (LABIR), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Adriana Soledad Vega Orozco
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción (LABIR), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Myriam Raquel Laconi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Marinelli S, Maiarù M, Colciago A. Editorial: Neuroinflammation and Neuroautoimmunity in Peripheral Neuropathies: Old Players, New Roles. Front Immunol 2021; 12:801760. [PMID: 34887876 PMCID: PMC8649888 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.801760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Marinelli
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Maria Maiarù
- Department of Pharmacology School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandra Colciago
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hormonal influences in migraine - interactions of oestrogen, oxytocin and CGRP. Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:621-633. [PMID: 34545218 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-021-00544-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Migraine is ranked as the second highest cause of disability worldwide and the first among women aged 15-49 years. Overall, the incidence of migraine is threefold higher among women than men, though the frequency and severity of attacks varies during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the postpartum period and menopause. Reproductive hormones are clearly a key influence in the susceptibility of women to migraine. A fall in plasma oestrogen levels can trigger attacks of migraine without aura, whereas higher oestrogen levels seem to be protective. The basis of these effects is unknown. In this Review, we discuss what is known about sex hormones and their receptors in migraine-related areas in the CNS and the peripheral trigeminovascular pathway. We consider the actions of oestrogen via its multiple receptor subtypes and the involvement of oxytocin, which has been shown to prevent migraine attacks. We also discuss possible interactions of these hormones with the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) system in light of the success of anti-CGRP treatments. We propose a simple model to explain the hormone withdrawal trigger in menstrual migraine, which could provide a foundation for improved management and therapy for hormone-related migraine in women.
Collapse
|
16
|
Bonalume V, Caffino L, Castelnovo LF, Faroni A, Liu S, Hu J, Milanese M, Bonanno G, Sohns K, Hoffmann T, De Col R, Schmelz M, Fumagalli F, Magnaghi V, Carr R. Axonal GABA A stabilizes excitability in unmyelinated sensory axons secondary to NKCC1 activity. J Physiol 2021; 599:4065-4084. [PMID: 34174096 DOI: 10.1113/jp279664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS GABA depolarized sural nerve axons and increased the electrical excitability of C-fibres via GABAA receptor. Axonal excitability responses to GABA increased monotonically with the rate of action potential firing. Action potential activity in unmyelinated C-fibres is coupled to Na-K-Cl cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1) loading of axonal chloride. Activation of axonal GABAA receptor stabilized C-fibre excitability during prolonged low frequency (2.5 Hz) firing. NKCC1 maintains intra-axonal chloride to provide feed-forward stabilization of C-fibre excitability and thus support sustained firing. ABSTRACT GABAA receptor (GABAA R)-mediated depolarization of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) axonal projections in the spinal dorsal horn is implicated in pre-synaptic inhibition. Inhibition, in this case, is predicated on an elevated intra-axonal chloride concentration and a depolarizing GABA response. In the present study, we report that the peripheral axons of DRG neurons are also depolarized by GABA and this results in an increase in the electrical excitability of unmyelinated C-fibre axons. GABAA R agonists increased axonal excitability, whereas GABA excitability responses were blocked by GABAA R antagonists and were absent in mice lacking the GABAA R β3 subunit selectively in DRG neurons (AdvillinCre or snsCre ). Under control conditions, excitability responses to GABA became larger at higher rates of electrical stimulation (0.5-2.5 Hz). However, during Na-K-Cl cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1) blockade, the electrical stimulation rate did not affect GABA response size, suggesting that NKCC1 regulation of axonal chloride is coupled to action potential firing. To examine this, activity-dependent conduction velocity slowing (activity-dependent slowing; ADS) was used to quantify C-fibre excitability loss during a 2.5 Hz challenge. ADS was reduced by GABAA R agonists and exacerbated by either GABAA R antagonists, β3 deletion or NKCC1 blockade. This illustrates that activation of GABAA R stabilizes C-fibre excitability during sustained firing. We posit that NKCC1 acts in a feed-forward manner to maintain an elevated intra-axonal chloride in C-fibres during ongoing firing. The resulting chloride gradient can be utilized by GABAA R to stabilize axonal excitability. The data imply that therapeutic strategies targeting axonal chloride regulation at peripheral loci of pain and itch may curtail aberrant firing in C-fibres.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Bonalume
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca F Castelnovo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, TX, USA
| | - Alessandro Faroni
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sheng Liu
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jing Hu
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
- Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Genova, Italy
| | - Kyra Sohns
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tal Hoffmann
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Roberto De Col
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Carr
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Castelnovo LF, Thomas P. Membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα/PAQR7) promotes migration, proliferation and BDNF release in human Schwann cell-like differentiated adipose stem cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 531:111298. [PMID: 33930460 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) were recently found to be present and active in Schwann cells, where they have a potentially pro-regenerative activity. In this study, we investigated the role of mPRs in human adipose stem cells (ASC) differentiated into Schwann cell-like cells (SCL-ASC), which represent a promising alternative to Schwann cells for peripheral nerve regeneration. Our findings show that mPRs are present both in undifferentiated and differentiated ASC, and that the differentiation protocol upregulates mPR expression. Activation of mPRα promoted cell migration and differentiation in SCL-ASC, alongside with changes in cell morphology and mPRα localization. Moreover, it increased the expression and release of BDNF, a neurotrophin with pro-regenerative activity. Further analysis showed that Src and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways are involved in mPRα activity in SCL-ASC. These findings suggest that mPRα could play a pro-regenerative role in SCL-ASC and may be a promising target for the promotion of peripheral nerve regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca F Castelnovo
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channel View Drive, Port Aransas (TX), 78373, United States.
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channel View Drive, Port Aransas (TX), 78373, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Niu C, Leavitt LS, Lin Z, Paguigan ND, Sun L, Zhang J, Torres JP, Raghuraman S, Chase K, Cadeddu R, Karthikeyan M, Bortolato M, Reilly CA, Hughen RW, Light AR, Olivera BM, Schmidt EW. Neuroactive Type-A γ-Aminobutyric Acid Receptor Allosteric Modulator Steroids from the Hypobranchial Gland of Marine Mollusk, Conus geographus. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7033-7043. [PMID: 33949869 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In a program to identify pain treatments with low addiction potential, we isolated five steroids, conosteroids A-E (1-5), from the hypobranchial gland of the mollusk Conus geographus. Compounds 1-5 were active in a mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) assay that suggested that they might be analgesic. A synthetic analogue 6 was used for a detailed pharmacological study. Compound 6 significantly increased the pain threshold in mice in the hot-plate test at 2 and 50 mg/kg. Compound 6 at 500 nM antagonizes type-A γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABAARs). In a patch-clamp experiment, out of the six subunit combinations tested, 6 exhibited subtype selectivity, most strongly antagonizing α1β1γ2 and α4β3γ2 receptors (IC50 1.5 and 1.0 μM, respectively). Although the structures of 1-6 differ from those of known neuroactive steroids, they are cell-type-selective modulators of GABAARs, expanding the known chemical space of neuroactive steroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changshan Niu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Lee S Leavitt
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Zhenjian Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Noemi D Paguigan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Lili Sun
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Joshua P Torres
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Shrinivasan Raghuraman
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Kevin Chase
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Roberto Cadeddu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Manju Karthikeyan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Christopher A Reilly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Ronald W Hughen
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Alan R Light
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Baldomero M Olivera
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Eric W Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Reis de Assis D, Szabo A, Requena Osete J, Puppo F, O’Connell KS, A. Akkouh I, Hughes T, Frei E, A. Andreassen O, Djurovic S. Using iPSC Models to Understand the Role of Estrogen in Neuron-Glia Interactions in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder. Cells 2021; 10:209. [PMID: 33494281 PMCID: PMC7909800 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BIP) are severe mental disorders with a considerable disease burden worldwide due to early age of onset, chronicity, and lack of efficient treatments or prevention strategies. Whilst our current knowledge is that SCZ and BIP are highly heritable and share common pathophysiological mechanisms associated with cellular signaling, neurotransmission, energy metabolism, and neuroinflammation, the development of novel therapies has been hampered by the unavailability of appropriate models to identify novel targetable pathomechanisms. Recent data suggest that neuron-glia interactions are disturbed in SCZ and BIP, and are modulated by estrogen (E2). However, most of the knowledge we have so far on the neuromodulatory effects of E2 came from studies on animal models and human cell lines, and may not accurately reflect many processes occurring exclusively in the human brain. Thus, here we highlight the advantages of using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models to revisit studies of mechanisms underlying beneficial effects of E2 in human brain cells. A better understanding of these mechanisms opens the opportunity to identify putative targets of novel therapeutic agents for SCZ and BIP. In this review, we first summarize the literature on the molecular mechanisms involved in SCZ and BIP pathology and the beneficial effects of E2 on neuron-glia interactions. Then, we briefly present the most recent developments in the iPSC field, emphasizing the potential of using patient-derived iPSCs as more relevant models to study the effects of E2 on neuron-glia interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denis Reis de Assis
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Attila Szabo
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jordi Requena Osete
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Francesca Puppo
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Kevin S. O’Connell
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
| | - Ibrahim A. Akkouh
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Timothy Hughes
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Evgeniia Frei
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ole A. Andreassen
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Srdjan Djurovic
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo & Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway; (A.S.); (J.R.O.); (F.P.); (K.S.O.); (I.A.A.); (T.H.); (E.F.); (O.A.A.)
- NORMENT, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Physiopathological Role of Neuroactive Steroids in the Peripheral Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239000. [PMID: 33256238 PMCID: PMC7731236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) refers to many conditions involving damage to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Usually, PN causes weakness, numbness and pain and is the result of traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes, or exposure to chemicals. Despite the high prevalence of PN, available treatments are still unsatisfactory. Neuroactive steroids (i.e., steroid hormones synthesized by peripheral glands as well as steroids directly synthesized in the nervous system) represent important physiological regulators of PNS functionality. Data obtained so far and here discussed, indeed show that in several experimental models of PN the levels of neuroactive steroids are affected by the pathology and that treatment with these molecules is able to exert protective effects on several PN features, including neuropathic pain. Of note, the observations that neuroactive steroid levels are sexually dimorphic not only in physiological status but also in PN, associated with the finding that PN show sex dimorphic manifestations, may suggest the possibility of a sex specific therapy based on neuroactive steroids.
Collapse
|
21
|
Schwann Cell Autocrine and Paracrine Regulatory Mechanisms, Mediated by Allopregnanolone and BDNF, Modulate PKCε in Peripheral Sensory Neurons. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081874. [PMID: 32796542 PMCID: PMC7465687 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase type C-ε (PKCε) plays important roles in the sensitization of primary afferent nociceptors, such as ion channel phosphorylation, that in turn promotes mechanical hyperalgesia and pain chronification. In these neurons, PKCε is modulated through the local release of mediators by the surrounding Schwann cells (SCs). The progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone (ALLO) is endogenously synthesized by SCs, whereas it has proven to be a crucial mediator of neuron-glia interaction in peripheral nerve fibers. Biomolecular and pharmacological studies on rat primary SCs and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neuronal cultures were aimed at investigating the hypothesis that ALLO modulates neuronal PKCε, playing a role in peripheral nociception. We found that SCs tonically release ALLO, which, in turn, autocrinally upregulated the synthesis of the growth factor brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Subsequently, glial BDNF paracrinally activates PKCε via trkB in DRG sensory neurons. Herein, we report a novel mechanism of SCs-neuron cross-talk in the peripheral nervous system, highlighting a key role of ALLO and BDNF in nociceptor sensitization. These findings emphasize promising targets for inhibiting the development and chronification of neuropathic pain.
Collapse
|