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Tosi F, Rosmini F, Gremes V, Lucarini F, Zandonà M, Zanolin ME, Fiers T, Kaufman JM, Moghetti P. Resting energy expenditure in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2024:deae129. [PMID: 38867472 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is resting energy expenditure (REE) altered in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER Women with PCOS have a reduction in REE, when corrected for fat-free mass, independent of PCOS clinical phenotypes and BMI categories. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Obesity is an important issue in women with PCOS, in terms of frequency and pathophysiological implications. It has been hypothesized that obesity may be favoured by alterations in REE, but the studies have been limited and conflicting. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This case-control study was a comparison of 266 women with PCOS and 51 healthy controls, recruited in the Verona 3P study from 2010 to 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women with PCOS diagnosed by the Rotterdam criteria, with normal thyroid function and no interfering medications, were referred to the outpatient clinic of a tertiary care centre of endocrinology and metabolism for a measurement of REE. Healthy controls were recruited in the same period and submitted to the same procedure. In all subjects, REE was measured by indirect calorimetry and serum androgens were measured by LC-MS/MS. In women with PCOS, insulin sensitivity was assessed using the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE REE was similar in women with PCOS and controls. However, REE corrected for fat-free mass (REE/FFM) was significantly lower in women with PCOS than in controls (31.8 ± 4.0 vs 35.4 ± 3.9 kcal/kgFFM·day, P < 0.001). REE/FFM did not differ between normal-weight, overweight, or obese women with PCOS, and each of these subgroups showed lower REE/FFM values than controls. Reduced REE/FFM values were found in each phenotype of the syndrome. In multiple regression analysis, REE/FFM was independently associated with age and PCOS status, but not with fat mass. In PCOS women, REE/FFM was independently and directly associated with ovarian follicle number. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Limitations of the study are the cross-sectional design, which limits the causal inference of the results, and the unavailability of precise information about lifestyle factors, which may be potential confounders. Further prospective studies are needed to establish the importance of this phenomenon in contributing to the weight excess of PCOS. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A reduction of REE could potentially favour weight gain in women with PCOS and possibly contribute to the altered metabolic profile typical of this condition, even counteracting the therapeutic strategies aimed to reduce excess body fat in these women. Nevertheless, the presence of this abnormality in both obese/overweight and normal-weight patients suggests that other factors must play a role in this phenomenon. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by academic grants to PM from the University of Verona (FUR 2010-2022). All authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Tosi
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Rosmini
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Veronica Gremes
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Lucarini
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Martina Zandonà
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - M Elisabetta Zanolin
- Unit of Epidemiology & Statistical Medicine, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tom Fiers
- Laboratory for Hormonology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean-Marc Kaufman
- Laboratory for Hormonology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paolo Moghetti
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
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Mathis D, du Toit T, Altinkilic EM, Stojkov D, Urzì C, Voegel CD, Wu V, Zamboni N, Simon HU, Nuoffer JM, Flück CE, Felser A. Mitochondrial dysfunction results in enhanced adrenal androgen production in H295R cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 243:106561. [PMID: 38866189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The role of mitochondria in steroidogenesis is well established. However, the specific effects of mitochondrial dysfunction on androgen synthesis are not fully understood. In this study, we investigate the effects of various mitochondrial and metabolic inhibitors in H295R adrenal cells and perform a comprehensive analysis of steroid and metabolite profiling. We report that mitochondrial complex I inhibition by rotenone shifts cells toward anaerobic metabolism with a concomitant hyperandrogenic phenotype characterized by rapid stimulation of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA, 2 h) and slower accumulation of androstenedione and testosterone (24 h). Screening of metabolic inhibitors confirmed DHEA stimulation, which included mitochondrial complex III and mitochondrial pyruvate carrier inhibition. Metabolomic studies revealed truncated tricarboxylic acid cycle with an inverse correlation between citric acid and DHEA production as a common metabolic marker of hyperandrogenic inhibitors. The current study sheds light on a direct interplay between energy metabolism and androgen biosynthesis that could be further explored to identify novel molecular targets for efficient treatment of androgen excess disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Déborah Mathis
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department for BioMedical Research, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Emre Murat Altinkilic
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Darko Stojkov
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christian Urzì
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Magnetic Resonance Methodology, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University of Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Clarissa D Voegel
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Vincen Wu
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Zamboni
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Switzerland; PHRT Swiss Multi Omics Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hans-Uwe Simon
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Switzerland; Institute of Biochemistry, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Jean-Marc Nuoffer
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christa E Flück
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Felser
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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Wang K, Li Y. Signaling pathways and targeted therapeutic strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1191759. [PMID: 37929034 PMCID: PMC10622806 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1191759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although promising strides have been made in the field of PCOS over the past decades, the distinct etiologies of this syndrome are not fully elucidated. Prenatal factors, genetic variation, epigenetic mechanisms, unhealthy lifestyles, and environmental toxins all contribute to the development of this intricate and highly heterogeneous metabolic, endocrine, reproductive, and psychological disorder. Moreover, interactions between androgen excess, insulin resistance, disruption to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and obesity only make for a more complex picture. In this review, we investigate and summarize the related molecular mechanisms underlying PCOS pathogenesis from the perspective of the level of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smads, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo/YAP. Additionally, this review provides an overview of prospective therapies, such as exosome therapy, gene therapy, and drugs based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural compounds. By targeting these aberrant pathways, these interventions primarily alleviate inflammation, insulin resistance, androgen excess, and ovarian fibrosis, which are typical symptoms of PCOS. Overall, we hope that this paper will pave the way for better understanding and management of PCOS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanhua Li
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Sharma P, Halder A, Jain M, Tripathi M. Whole Exome Sequencing Reveals Rare Variants in Genes Associated with Metabolic Disorders in Women with PCOS. J Hum Reprod Sci 2023; 16:307-316. [PMID: 38322634 PMCID: PMC10841935 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_13_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex genetic trait, the pathogenesis of which is governed by an interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors. However, the aetiology of PCOS is not fully understood. Aims The objective of this study was to investigate the genetic causes of PCOS by identifying rare variants in genes implicated in its pathophysiology. Settings and Design This was a hospital-based observational study. Materials and Methods We used whole-exome sequencing for 52 PCOS women to identify the rare variants in genes related to PCOS pathogenesis. Subsequently, we analysed these variants using in silico prediction software to determine their functional effects. We then assessed the relationship between these variants and the clinical outcomes of the patients. Statistical Analysis Used Student's t-test and Fisher's exact test were used to compare clinical parameters and frequency differences amongst PCOS patients with and without variants. Results A total of four rare exonic variants in obesity- and hyperinsulinaemia-related genes including UCP1 (p.Thr227Ile), UCP2 (p.Arg88Cys), IRS1 (p.Ser892Gly) and GHRL (p.Leu72Met) were identified in eight patients. Significant differences were observed between the patients carrying variants and those without variants. PCOS patients with identified variants exhibited significantly higher average body mass index and fasting insulin levels of PCOS subjects with identified variants compared to those without variants (P < 0.05). Additionally, there were significant differences in the variant frequencies of four variants when compared to the population database (P < 0.05). Conclusion This study shows a prevalence of rare variants in obesity and hyperinsulinaemia-related genes in a cohort of PCOS women, thereby underscoring the impact of the identified rare variants on the development of obesity and associated metabolic derangements in PCOS women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyal Sharma
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashutosh Halder
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Manish Jain
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Manish Tripathi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Díaz M, Carreras-Badosa G, Villarroya J, Gavaldà-Navarro A, Bassols J, de Zegher F, López-Bermejo A, Villarroya F, Ibáñez L. Circulating GDF15 concentrations in girls with low birth weight: effects of prolonged metformin treatment. Pediatr Res 2023; 93:964-968. [PMID: 35817957 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02175-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low birth weight (LBW) followed by a rapid postnatal catch-up in weight predisposes individuals to a central distribution of body fat, which is reverted by metformin. Growth-and-differentiation-factor-15 (GDF15) plays an important role in the regulation of energy homeostasis, reducing food intake and body weight. We assessed whether GDF15 concentrations are raised by long-term metformin treatment in LBW/catch-up girls with precocious pubarche (PP, pubic hair <8 years), and whether they relate to changes in endocrine-metabolic variables, body composition, and abdominal fat partitioning. METHODS Circulating GDF15 was determined in 30 LBW/catch-up girls with PP randomly assigned to receive metformin for 4 years (n = 15; 425 mg/d for 2 years, then 850 mg/d for 2 years) or to remain untreated (n = 15). Endocrine-metabolic variables, body composition (by absorptiometry), and abdominal fat partitioning (by MRI) were assessed at the start and yearly during follow-up. RESULTS Circulating GDF15 concentrations increased significantly in LBW-PP girls only after 3 and 4 years on metformin. GDF15 levels associated negatively with insulin, HOMA-IR, androgens, body fat, and visceral fat. CONCLUSION Prepubertal intervention with metformin reduces central adiposity and insulin resistance in girls with reduced prenatal growth. GDF15 could be among the mediators of such effects, especially over the long term. IMPACT Low birth weight followed by a rapid postnatal catch-up in weight predisposes individuals to a central distribution of body fat, which is reverted by metformin. Growth-and-differentiation-factor-15 (GDF15) is a peptide hormone that reduces food intake and lowers body weight; metformin is an exogenous GDF15 secretagogue. Serum GDF15 concentrations increase after 3 and 4 years on metformin and associate negatively with insulin, androgens, body fat, and visceral fat. Prepubertal intervention with metformin reduces central adiposity and insulin resistance in girls with low birth weight. GDF15 could mediate these effects, especially over the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Díaz
- Endocrinology Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, 08950 Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Carreras-Badosa
- Pediatric Endocrinology Research Group, Girona Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBGI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona and Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital, 17007, Girona, Spain
| | - Joan Villarroya
- Endocrinology Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, 08950 Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aleix Gavaldà-Navarro
- Endocrinology Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, 08950 Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Judit Bassols
- Pediatric Endocrinology Research Group, Girona Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBGI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona and Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital, 17007, Girona, Spain
| | | | - Abel López-Bermejo
- Pediatric Endocrinology Research Group, Girona Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBGI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona and Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital, 17007, Girona, Spain
| | - Francesc Villarroya
- Endocrinology Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, 08950 Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain.
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Lourdes Ibáñez
- Endocrinology Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, 08950 Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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The Implication of Mechanistic Approaches and the Role of the Microbiome in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Review. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13010129. [PMID: 36677054 PMCID: PMC9863528 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
As a complex endocrine and metabolic condition, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affects women's reproductive health. These common symptoms include hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, irregular menstruation, and infertility. No one knows what causes it or how to stop it yet. Alterations in gut microbiota composition and disruptions in secondary bile acid production appear to play a causative role in developing PCOS. PCOS pathophysiology and phenotypes are tightly related to both enteric and vaginal bacteria. Patients with PCOS exhibit changed microbiome compositions and decreased microbial diversity. Intestinal microorganisms also alter PCOS patient phenotypes by upregulating or downregulating hormone release, gut-brain mediators, and metabolite synthesis. The human body's gut microbiota, also known as the "second genome," can interact with the environment to improve metabolic and immunological function. Inflammation is connected to PCOS and may be caused by dysbiosis in the gut microbiome. This review sheds light on the recently discovered connections between gut microbiota and insulin resistance (IR) and the potential mechanisms of PCOS. This study also describes metabolomic studies to obtain a clear view of PCOS and ways to tackle it.
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Lemaitre M, Christin-Maitre S, Kerlan V. Polycystic ovary syndrome and adipose tissue. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023; 84:308-315. [PMID: 36623807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. Typically, it is associated with ovulatory dysfunction: dysovulation or anovulation, and symptoms of hyperandrogenism. It incurs risk of metabolic disorders such as diabetes, dyslipidemia and fatty liver. As a key endocrine organ in metabolic homeostasis, adipose tissue is often implicated in these complications. Studies of white adipose tissue (WAT) in PCOS have focused on the mechanism of insulin resistance in this tissue. Clinically, abnormalities in WAT distribution are seen, with decreased waist-to-hip ratio and increased ratio of adipose to lean mass. Such abnormalities are greater when total circulating androgens are elevated. At tissue level, white adipocyte hyperplasia occurs, along with infiltration of macrophages. Secretion of adipokines, cytokines and chemo-attractant proteins is increased in a pro-inflammatory manner, leading to reduced insulin sensitivity via alteration of glucose transporters, and hence decreased glucose uptake. The kinetics of non-esterified fatty acids (or free fatty acids) is also altered, leading to lipotoxicity. In recent years, brown adipose tissue (BAT) has been studied in women with PCOS. Although abundance is low in the body, BAT appears to play a significant role in energy expenditure and metabolic parameters. Both supra-clavicular skin temperature, which reflects BAT activity, and BAT mass are reduced in women with PCOS. Moreover, BAT mass and body mass index (BMI) are inversely correlated in patients. In the adipocyte, increased total circulating androgen levels reduce expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), a key protein in the brown adipocyte, leading to reduced biogenesis and mitochondrial respiration and hence a reduction in post-prandial thermogenesis. BAT is currently being investigated as a possible new therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madleen Lemaitre
- CHU Lille, Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - Sophie Christin-Maitre
- Center for rare endocrine diseases of growth and development, ERN-HCP, Sorbonne University, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Reproductive Medicine, Saint-Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Véronique Kerlan
- CHU Brest, Department of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Brest University Hospital, 29200 Brest, France
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Androgen receptor suppresses β-adrenoceptor-mediated CREB activation and thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue of male mice. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102619. [PMID: 36272644 PMCID: PMC9700029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Thermoregulation is a process by which core body temperature is maintained in mammals. Males typically have a lower body temperature than females. However, the effects of androgens, which show higher levels in males, on adrenergic receptor-mediated thermogenesis remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that androgen-androgen receptor (AR) signaling suppresses the β-adrenergic agonist-induced rise of core body temperature using castrated and AR knockout (ARKO) male mice. Furthermore, in vitro mechanistic studies show that activated AR inhibits cAMP response element (CRE)-mediated transcription by suppressing cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation. The elevation of body temperature induced by the β-adrenergic agonist CL316243 was higher in ARKO and castrated mice than in the control mice. Similarly, CL316243 induced a greater increase in Uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1) expression and CREB phosphorylation in the brown adipose tissue of ARKO mice than in that of controls. We determined that activation of AR by dihydrotestosterone suppressed β3-agonist- or forskolin-induced CRE-mediated transcription, which was prevented by AR antagonist. AR activation also suppressed CREB phosphorylation induced by forskolin. Moreover, we found AR nuclear localization, but not transcriptional activity, was necessary for the suppression of CRE-mediated transcription. Finally, modified mammalian two-hybrid and immunoprecipitation analyses suggest nuclear AR and CREB form a protein complex both in the presence and absence of dihydrotestosterone and forskolin. These results suggest androgen-AR signaling suppresses β-adrenoceptor-induced UCP1-mediated brown adipose tissue thermogenesis by suppressing CREB phosphorylation, presumably owing to a protein complex with AR and CREB. This mechanism explains sexual differences in body temperature, at least partially.
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Chen W, Pang Y. Metabolic Syndrome and PCOS: Pathogenesis and the Role of Metabolites. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11120869. [PMID: 34940628 PMCID: PMC8709086 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11120869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases among women of reproductive age and is associated with many metabolic manifestations, such as obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenism. The underlying pathogenesis of these metabolic symptoms has not yet been fully elucidated. With the application of metabolomics techniques, a variety of metabolite changes have been observed in the serum and follicular fluid (FF) of PCOS patients and animal models. Changes in metabolites result from the daily diet and occur during uncommon physiological routines. However, some of these metabolite changes may provide evidence to explain possible mechanisms and new approaches for prevention and therapy. This article reviews the pathogenesis of PCOS metabolic symptoms and the relationship between metabolites and the pathophysiology of PCOS. Furthermore, the potential clinical application of some specific metabolites will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixuan Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China;
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
- Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanli Pang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China;
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
- Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence:
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Wawrzkiewicz-Jałowiecka A, Lalik A, Soveral G. Recent Update on the Molecular Mechanisms of Gonadal Steroids Action in Adipose Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5226. [PMID: 34069293 PMCID: PMC8157194 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The gonadal steroids, including androgens, estrogens and progestogens, are involved in the control of body fat distribution in humans. Nevertheless, not only the size and localization of the fat depots depend on the sex steroids levels, but they can also highly affect the functioning of adipose tissue. Namely, the gonadocorticoids can directly influence insulin signaling, lipid metabolism, fatty acid uptake and adipokine production. They may also alter energy balance and glucose homeostasis in adipocytes in an indirect way, e.g., by changing the expression level of aquaglyceroporins. This work presents the recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanism of how the gonadal steroids influence the functioning of adipose tissue leading to a set of detrimental metabolic consequences. Special attention is given here to highlighting the sexual dimorphism of adipocyte functioning in terms of health and disease. Particularly, we discuss the molecular background of metabolic disturbances occurring in consequence of hormonal imbalance which is characteristic of some common endocrinopathies such as the polycystic ovary syndrome. From this perspective, we highlight the potential drug targets and the active substances which can be used in personalized sex-specific management of metabolic diseases, in accord with the patient's hormonal status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Wawrzkiewicz-Jałowiecka
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Anna Lalik
- Department of Systems Biology and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 16, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Graça Soveral
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
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Yin L, Luo M, Wang R, Ye J, Wang X. Mitochondria in Sex Hormone-Induced Disorder of Energy Metabolism in Males and Females. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:749451. [PMID: 34987473 PMCID: PMC8721233 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.749451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgens have a complex role in the regulation of insulin sensitivity in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. In male subjects, a reduction in androgens increases the risk for insulin resistance, which is improved by androgen injections. However, in female subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), androgen excess becomes a risk factor for insulin resistance. The exact mechanism underlying the complex activities of androgens remains unknown. In this review, a hormone synergy-based view is proposed for understanding this complexity. Mitochondrial overactivation by substrate influx is a mechanism of insulin resistance in obesity. This concept may apply to the androgen-induced insulin resistance in PCOS. Androgens and estrogens both exhibit activities in the induction of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. The two hormones may synergize in mitochondria to induce overproduction of ATP. ATP surplus in the pancreatic β-cells and α-cells causes excess secretion of insulin and glucagon, respectively, leading to peripheral insulin resistance in the early phase of type 2 diabetes. In the skeletal muscle and liver, the ATP surplus contributes to insulin resistance through suppression of AMPK and activation of mTOR. Consistent ATP surplus leads to mitochondrial dysfunction as a consequence of mitophagy inhibition, which provides a potential mechanism for mitochondrial dysfunction in β-cells and brown adipocytes in PCOS. The hormone synergy-based view provides a basis for the overactivation and dysfunction of mitochondria in PCOS-associated type 2 diabetes. The molecular mechanism for the synergy is discussed in this review with a focus on transcriptional regulation. This view suggests a unifying mechanism for the distinct metabolic roles of androgens in the control of insulin action in men with hypogonadism and women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Yin
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Man Luo
- Metabolism Research Center, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ru Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianping Ye
- Metabolism Research Center, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Center for Advanced Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jianping Ye, ; Xiaohui Wang,
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jianping Ye, ; Xiaohui Wang,
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Kaikaew K, Grefhorst A, Visser JA. Sex Differences in Brown Adipose Tissue Function: Sex Hormones, Glucocorticoids, and Their Crosstalk. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:652444. [PMID: 33927694 PMCID: PMC8078866 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.652444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive fat accumulation in the body causes overweight and obesity. To date, research has confirmed that there are two types of adipose tissue with opposing functions: lipid-storing white adipose tissue (WAT) and lipid-burning brown adipose tissue (BAT). After the rediscovery of the presence of metabolically active BAT in adults, BAT has received increasing attention especially since activation of BAT is considered a promising way to combat obesity and associated comorbidities. It has become clear that energy homeostasis differs between the sexes, which has a significant impact on the development of pathological conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Sex differences in BAT activity may contribute to this and, therefore, it is important to address the underlying mechanisms that contribute to sex differences in BAT activity. In this review, we discuss the role of sex hormones in the regulation of BAT activity under physiological and some pathological conditions. Given the increasing number of studies suggesting a crosstalk between sex hormones and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in metabolism, we also discuss this crosstalk in relation to sex differences in BAT activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasiphak Kaikaew
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Aldo Grefhorst
- Department of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jenny A. Visser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Jenny A. Visser,
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